IP addresses are NOT logged in this forum so there's no point asking. Please note that this forum is full of homophobes, racists, lunatics, schizophrenics & absolute nut jobs with a smattering of geniuses, Chinese chauvinists, Moderate Muslims and last but not least a couple of "know-it-alls" constantly sprouting their dubious wisdom. If you believe that content generated by unsavory characters might cause you offense PLEASE LEAVE NOW! Sammyboy Admin and Staff are not responsible for your hurt feelings should you choose to read any of the content here. The OTHER forum is HERE so please stop asking.
Ramsey stripped of Wales captaincy in favour of Swansea's Williams
By NEIL MOXLEY PUBLISHED: 22:55 GMT, 4 October 2012 | UPDATED: 08:43 GMT, 5 October 2012
Aaron Ramsey has been removed as Wales skipper by manager Chris Coleman in reaction to last month's thrashing in Serbia.The Arsenal playmaker held the position for little over 18 months, but with Wales sitting bottom of their World Cup qualifying group Coleman has acted ahead of next week's games against Scotland and Croatia.Swansea centre back Ashley Williams, 28, has been announced as captain for the fixtures with experienced duo Craig Bellamy (calf) and James Collins (suspended) both out.
Reign over: Aaron Ramsey is set to lose the Wales armband
Ramsey, 21, was a controversial choice when he was handed the armband by former head coach Gary Speed.But he has not shirked the responsibility, although his relationship with Coleman has not been the easiest.The former Coventry and Fulham boss risked upsetting the midfielder when he asked Ryan Shawcross to consider playing for the Red Dragons.
Decision: Chris Coleman is expected to announce the switch on Friday
New role: Williams
Bellamy, who missed Wales' opening two Group A matches after suffering a calf injury while playing for Cardiff, was not included in Chris Coleman's 21-man squad which was announced on the Football Association of Wales website on Friday morning.The 33-year-old has started Cardiff's last three matches and scored the opening goal in their 2-1 victory over Birmingham on Tuesday before being substituted later on.
Without the 70-cap striker, Wales suffered a 2-0 defeat to Belgium in their opening qualifier last month before being thrashed 6-1 in Serbia in their second outing. Goalkeeper Boaz Myhill, who played in both of those matches, is also missing from the latest squad as he has a thumb injury that has required surgery. Aberdeen's Jason Brown, Lewis Price of Crystal Palace and Tranmere's Owain Fon Williams are the three keepers in the squad. Wales play Scotland in Cardiff next Friday before facing Croatia in Osijek four days later.
Recovering Young provides Manchester United fitness boost
The winger has not appeared for the Premier League runners-up since the end of August after picking up a knee injury but is in contention to face Stoke City on October 20
Sunderland winger McClean a doubt for Republic of Ireland clash with Germany
The 23-year-old is unlikely to feature in the World Cup qualifying clash against Joachim Low's side after reporting of a tight groin following the loss to Manchester City
Redknapp: I’ve stopped attending games case I get linked to a club
The former Tottenham manager admits he has stopped watching Premier League matches in person to prevent speculation of him being the next boss at different teams
Arsenal boss Wenger: Santi Cazorla was outstanding against West Ham
The Gunners boss was pleased with the Spaniard’s performance in his side’s 3-1 victory, stating that "it was a delight to watch him" after he scored the third goal
Manchester City prepare €30 million Jovetic move
The Premier League champions are ready to make a fresh attempt to sign the Montenegro international in the January transfer window, but face competition from Juventus
Walcott takes centre stage for Arsenal to prove himself a worthy leading man
The England winger-come-striker showed his lethal finishing ability to give the Gunners the lead against West Ham, and in the process staked a claim to lead the line permanently
Arsenal striker Giroud 'relieved' to score first Premier League goal
The Frenchman netted a first-half equaliser against West Ham before going on to set up Walcott later in the game, and maintained that he was always confident the goal would come
Di Matteo hails Chelsea's professionalism after Norwich rout
The Italian believes his side's continuing good form is proof that they are able to set aside off-the-field issues and concentrate on maintaining their trophy charge
Ashley Cole to face Chelsea punishment for FA Tweet, reveals Di Matteo
Blues boss confirms England international will face disciplinary action following his foul-mouthed comment made against English football's governing body on Friday
Mancini delighted with Manchester City's first clean sheet of the season
The 47-year-old was satisfied with his team's defensive display, while Sunderland boss Martin O'Neill conceded that the hosts were too good for the Black Cats to handle
Gerrard: I can still improve under Rodgers
The 32-year-old says he can become a better player under the new Anfield boss and believes last week's win over Norwich can be the 'catalyst' for the Reds' season
Pele: Neymar physically not up for Premier League
O Rei believes that the gifted attacker would act wise to stay away from England for now, and feels he is a better player technically than Lionel Messi
Charlie Adam: I quit Liverpool for chance of first-team football at Stoke
The Scot revealed he left Anfield to join Stoke this summer in an attempt to reignite his career after spending his year on Merseyside in and out of the side
'If I was young, I wouldn't go to Manchester City', says Adam Johnson
The Sunderland winger admits the Premier League champions are hard to turn down but warned young players not to join Roberto Mancini's side just to become bit-part players
Ivanovic wary of Tottenham test after international break
Chelsea will face former manager Andre Villas-Boas when they travel to White Hart Lane as league leaders and the defender believes that the game will be decided by "small details"
Di Matteo warns Chelsea players to respect the rules and uphold club image
The Blues manager expects to see his team strive for higher standards of behaviour in the public domain following the fall-out of John Terry's four-match ban for racial abuse
Manchester City midfielder Barry: I am not ready to retire from England
The former Aston Villa man insists he is not an England outcast despite being left out of Roy Hodgson’s squad for the World Cup double-header against San Marino and Poland
Pulis: Suarez should be banned for diving
The Stoke boss was left angry after the Liverpool striker went down without any contact in the box at Anfield, and has called for the FA to look at the incident retrospectively
Wenger: It is too early to compare Cazorla to Fabregas...but he reminds me of Hoddle
The manager praised his summer signing's Saturday display, capped with a goal, and explained that of those he has worked with only the England man was as two-footed as the Spaniard
Villas-Boas making his points as Tottenham climb the Premier League table
Spurs have won their last four league fixtures, most recently a 2-0 win over Aston Villa at White Hart Lane on Sunday as they continue to improve under their new manager
Mertesacker pleased with Arsenal's defence, but vows to keep concentrating
The German international defender pleased with the start the Gunners have made and he believes that newly tightened back-line has been a major factor in their opening few games
Newcastle win shows why Manchester United are the Premier League's most enduring contenders
Some believed Sir Alex Ferguson's men were there for the taking at the Sports Direct Arena after their Tottenham setback, but the doubters were silenced in emphatic fashion
Gerrard epitomises Liverpool's sloppy start but does Rodgers dare axe Kop idol?
The Reds' captain has struggled at the start of the new season but should the former Swansea boss stand by the England midfielder or make a bold move to drop him?
Wenger hopeful over Walcott contract situation after West Ham victory
The Arsenal manager believes that the 23-year-old wants to stay at the Emirates Stadium and claimed that they were "always in touch" after he scored the winning goal at Upton Park
Mannone enjoying 'best time' at Arsenal
The Italian goalkeeper is relishing his role as No.1 following injuries to Wojciech Szczesny and Lukasz Fabianski and hopes to retain his place in Arsene Wenger's plans
Pardew calls for ‘unsavoury’ Van Persie elbow on Cabaye to be looked at
The Newcastle manager accepted Manchester United deserved to win Sunday's clash at the Sports Direct Arena but expressed disappointment at his side's start to the match
Rooney: I don't mind not scoring if Manchester United win
The England international has yet to notch a Premier League goal this season and was deployed in a deeper midfield role during Sunday's victory against Newcastle
Sir Alex Ferguson hails Manchester United concentration
The Red Devils reversed the scoreline of their last visit to Newcastle with a 3-0 win, and the manager was particularly impressed with Wayne Rooney's efforts in midfield
Villas-Boas insists no final decision has been made on Tottenham's first choice goalkeeper
Hugo Lloris made his first league start of the season in the 2-0 win over Aston Villa on Sunday, leaving Friedel disappointed - but AVB yet to decide on who will face Chelsea
Rodgers buoyed by Liverpool youngsters despite Stoke draw
The Merseyside outfit were frustrated by Tony Pulis' side at Anfield on Sunday afternoon, but the Northern Irishman was keen to take positives from the stalemate
Clarke Carlisle: John Terry ban dilutes FA stance on racism
The York City defender says the Chelsea captain should have been more harshly punished after he was given a four-match ban for using insulting words to Anton Ferdinand
Santos sensation Neymar would listen to Chelsea offer
The 20-year-old Brazil international striker put the Blues in a select category of "five clubs in the world" that also included Spanish giants Real Madrid and Barcelona
No way back for Joey Barton, says QPR chief executive
The 29-year-old midfielder is currently on loan at Marseille and looks set to leave Loftus Road at the end of the season as Philip Beard admits that the club have 'moved on'
Cazorla: I am here to fight for the Premier League title with Arsenal
The Spanish midfielder got on the scoresheet in his side's 3-1 win over West Ham on Saturday and is aiming to push on towards domestic dominance with the Gunners
Tottenham striker Adebayor: I want to make Defoe the league's top goalscorer
The Spurs forward insists that he is "not a selfish player" and he would be just as happy helping his colleague to the top of the goal charts as he would doing it himself
Hodgson praises 'excellent professional' Ashley Cole as defender nears 100th England cap
The national boss has kind words for the Chelsea left-back despite the player's controversial Tweet about the FA following John Terry's ban for racially abusing Anton Ferdinand
I don't want to be rested for England against San Marino, insists Hart
The Manchester City goalkeeper does not yet feel the No.1 jersey is his yet but intends to further claim it by staying in Roy Hodgson's side for the next World Cup qualifier
Liverpool striker Borini: I was forced out of Chelsea
The Reds striker worked under Brendan Rodgers at Stamford Bridge, where he claims that he was pushed away by the board despite then-manager Carlo Ancelotti wanting him to stay
Losing early goals is becoming a concern for Manchester United - Rooney
The 26-year-old England forward admits that letting teams get a head-start in games is becoming a problem for the Red Devils, and hopes they can tighten up for a title push
Downing: I will fight for my place to stay at Liverpool
The England international insists that he is ready to prove his critics wrong, including new manager Brendan Rodgers, despite being "upset" by suggestions of a lack of courage
Croatian wonderkid Halilovic trying to ignore Manchester United and Real Madrid rumours
The 16-year-old playmaker has many admirers after being compared to Barcelona's Lionel Messi but insists that his future is up to Dinamo Zagreb and only wants to keep improving
Sir Alex Ferguson: Rooney is ready to explode into form again for Manchester United
The Red Devils manager declares that the England forward is now back to full fitness and hopes that Robin van Persie and his other strikers can share the goalscoring burden
Classy Chelsea overcome difficult week to look like genuine title contenders
Despite the off-field controversies surrounding John Terry and Ashley Cole, the Blues' highly impressive performance against Norwich City shows that they can mount a real challenge
Wenger sets eyes on January spend following strong financial year for Arsenal
The Gunners' manager will be given a large transfer budget for the next window following good performances on and off the pitch and a prudent buying policy, says Peter Hill-Wood
Oct 7, 2012 10:25:00 AM
By Matt Davis
Arsene Wenger will be given a large transfer budget for January after years of astutely managed finances have contributed to a surge in profits for Arsenal, the club's chairman, Peter Hill-Wood, has confirmed.
In recent summers the Gunners have been forced to sell some of their biggest stars, with Alex Song and Robin van Persie leaving the club in August, following the departures of Cesc Fabregas, Samir Nasri and Gael Clichy a year earlier.
But their prudent transfer policy, combined with success in the Champions League in past years, has generated cash that will be available to Wenger once the window opens again on January 1.
Hill-Wood told reporters: "If Arsene wants to use that money during the winter window then, *absolutely, he will be able to do it."We rely on him to come up with the right people and there will be funds available to him.
"The financial results were good and we want to put that money to use if Arsene decides he wants more players but if the manager wants to *reinforce the squad in January, he will be able to do that.
"I like to think that the profit shows we are *running the club on the right lines.
"We are not able, for *instance, to be able to *afford to write off €220 million. That is not how we work."
The north London club have never spent more than €25m on a single player, although recent signing Santi Cazorla is thought to have come close to that mark.
Reports have suggested that Arsenal might look to Atletico Madrid star Radamel Falcao, with the 26-year-old alerting Premier League clubs by admitting that he would like to play in England one day.
'Shankly would be turning in his grave' - Lawrenson slams Liverpool documentary
The former Reds defender was unimpressed by the broadcasting of the behind-the-scenes footage and argued that the club should focus on getting results right on the pitch
Oct 8, 2012 10:50:00 AM
By Oliver Platt
Former Liverpool defender Mark Lawrenson has slammed the behind-the-scenes television documentary that is currently being aired across the United Kingdom, insisting that legendary Reds manager Bill Shankly "would be turning in his grave".
Being: Liverpool follows the club on their pre-season tour of North America in the lead-up to the 2012-13 Premier League season and has also been shown in the United States.
Lawrenson, a five-time league champion on Merseyside, dismissed the programme as "American schmalz" and believes that the club hierarchy should be focusing on improving results on the pitch.
"What on earth is Brendan Rodgers doing in this programme Being: Liverpool? I'm sorry, I just think this show comes across as American schmalz," Lawrenson writes in his column for the Daily Mirror.
"It's totally ill-advised and some of the stuff that I have seen so far in the first three episodes is cringeworthy.
"I think everybody shares that point of view. The problem is, once you get American owners intent on doing it and intent on getting everyone involved it's extremely difficult.
"Well, at the moment the club isn't doing particularly well. The soundbites are great but it's plain for everyone to see that there is a lot wrong."
The Match of the Day pundit claimed that famous former bosses such as Shankly, Bob Paisley and Joe Fagan would be shocked by the broadcasting of scenes such as one involving chief executive Ian Ayre.
"One other thing. The show I saw on Saturday ended up with Ian Ayre, the chief executive, jumping on his Harley Davison and riding through the city," Lawrenson added.
"Come on!! Shankly would be turning in his grave. So would Paisley and Fagan and all of those Liverpool legends."
You diver! Stoke boss Pulis slams Suarez after Liverpool star's blatant attempt to cheat in bore draw
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER PUBLISHED: 17:49 GMT, 7 October 2012 | UPDATED: 08:10 GMT, 8 October 2012
Luis Suarez found himself at the centre of another storm over diving as Liverpool were frustrated by Stoke at Anfield. Stoke boss Tony Pulis condemned a blatant dive by the Uruguayan striker towards the end of the 0-0 draw as 'very, very disappointing'. The Stoke manager has previously called on the Football Association to ban players guilty of simulation, while Suarez himself has been accused by some of going down too easily.
Pulis said: 'You have got Suarez falling over in the box second half which was really, really disappointing. 'I think that should be highlighted, as I have said before.' Pulis contrasted Suarez's dive with Glen Johnson's reaction to a strong Stoke challenge. He added: 'There was a challenge in the first half in front of us, Jon Walters and Glen Johnson both went up for a header, it was a proper old-fashioned challenge. 'Glen Johnson did absolutely fantastic, just bounced back up on got with the game, it was a proper, proper challenge.
'I went over to him and said "well done, brilliant" - not only did he play exceptionally well but his behaviour was fabulous.'And there was further controversy when Robert Huth appeared to stamp on the Liverpool striker's chest - but no action was taken by referee Lee Mason.Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers insisted he had not seen the Suarez incident but defended his player.Rodgers said: 'I haven't seen the incident so I can't really comment on it but whatever Luis does there will always be a problem, whether it's media, referees or whatever.
Not happy: Pulis has revealed his disappointment at Suarez's actions at Anfield
'It gets brought up every week, it's something that is not new. I thought he was terrific today, some of his movement and combinations.' Rodgers admitted to being frustrated by the result but was full of praise for his players for standing up to a physical Stoke side - but he did not believe the visitors had been over-physical. He added: 'No - they are a bunch of big men who make it difficult for you and there is no right or wrong way to play football. What I was proud of is our young guys stood up to that.
'It was a physical game today but no complaints from us. I thought maybe the referee didn't see it that way and didn't give some decisions he should have done. 'I am obviously disappointed we didn't win the game but I thought the attitude and application of the players was terrific. 'As the game on we got into good areas but it was just that final touch, that final decision at the end of it didn't allow us to score. 'There were a lot of real positives from the game and our first clean sheet which is important. We had so much dominance, particularly second half, so I was pleased with how we kept going.'
Rodgers pointed out that Liverpool's recent record at Anfield is nothing to shout about but that only time could turn it around. He said: 'This is a club that has won only two Premier League games at Anfield in this calendar year and it has been nearly a year since the club has won consecutive Premier League games so to still get the backing of the supporters with that type of record, there's not many clubs would give that.
No way through: It was a frustrating afternoon for Liverpool as they were held to goalless draw
'The players gave the club everything today, and there should be a big appreciation of the supporters. 'There were a lot of real positives and it was our first clean sheet of the season which is important.' Pulis insisted Stoke could have done even better after mistakes by Liverpool in the first half nearly gifted goals to Charlie Adam and Michael Kightly. He said: 'We are pleased, we have had three draws here in five years in the Premiership so we haven't done too bad.
'We just can't get that win that we would love. The first 20 to 25 minutes I thought we had the best chances and the best of the game and then they came into it and in the second half we had to defend resolutely. 'They worked their socks off, it's a good group, a very, very together group and we are pleased with the point.' Pulis confirmed that Michael Owen missed a return to Anfield after tweaking his groin.
Head boy: Huth was involved in another altercation with Suarez which went unnoticed
Pardew calls for probe into Van Persie 'elbow' on Toon star Cabaye in Man United's win
By COLIN YOUNG PUBLISHED: 21:47 GMT, 7 October 2012 | UPDATED: 09:40 GMT, 8 October 2012
Manchester United striker Robin van Persie is facing an FA charge after appearing to elbow Newcastle United’s Yohan Cabaye in his side’s 3-0 win on Tyneside. Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew said: 'He's looked at Yohan and he's elbowed him. I think that needs to be looked at, if I’m honest. 'There was a bit of history there and I don’t know whether he’s got caught up in that, but that was just a little bit of unsavouriness in the game.
Controversy: Robin van Persie appears to elbow Yohan Cabaye on Sunday
Spat: Howard Webb had to intervene when Yohan Cabaye accused Robin van Persie of elbowing him in an off the ball incident during Manchester United's win at Newcastle
‘I actually thought Yohan wouldn’t have gone down if he hadn’t done something but I hadn’t seen it myself. I’ve obviously seen the replay and it looks like he’s looked at him and put the elbow in. ‘But I’m not going to take anything away from United, they deserved to win. They came and played very, very well in periods.’ Holland forward Van Persie must now wait for referee Howard Webb’s report. He faces a three-match ban if found guilty of violent conduct. Cabaye was adamant the striker hit him in the mouth as he remonstrated with Webb, who missed the off-the-ball collision. The referee appeared to indicate that he would act if footage showed there was malicious contact. Newcastle coach John Carver and fourth official Kevin Friend had a similar conversation in the technical area.
Hooked: Van Persie was subbed after a frustrating day in front of goal for his new club
Cabaye and Van Persie, who had an unsavoury spat with Newcastle keeper Tim Krul at the Emirates last season, had been niggling throughout and had to be pulled apart by Webb after the incident. Van Persie was substituted four minutes later. His indiscretion should not detract from the performance manager Sir Alex Ferguson called United’s best of the season. It was a reversal of last season’s humiliation at Newcastle, when he admitted his team had been bullied and outplayed. There was no indication of that happening again, with Wayne Rooney in outstanding form in a deep midfield role. Two goals in the first 15 minutes from defenders Jonny Evans and Patrice Evra at set pieces sank Newcastle. Tom Cleverley scored the third with a speculative shot he claimed was deliberate, although others, including his manager, were not so sure.
Over or out: David de Gea claws away Papiss Cisse's header, but it's obviously not time to bring in technology, is it Mr Platini?
Temper, temper: Cheick Tiote throws a complete strop after being penalised
‘I think it was a cross but he says it was a shot,’ said Ferguson. ‘I meant to put it in the far corner,’ said Cleverley. ‘Whether it’s a good cross, obviously it’s a good finish and luckily it’s found the net.’ The home side were denied a goal six minutes into the second half when Papiss Cisse’s header was scrambled to safety by David de Gea. Webb and his assistants turned down Newcastle appeals for a goal and appeared to have made the right decision. Pardew said: ‘You’re talking inches and even after looking at it three or four times I’m still not sure.’
Ferguson added: ‘The evidence was inconclusive but I would have been disappointed if we had not been given a goal in that situation.’ The Manchester United manager described his side’s performance as ‘absolutely brilliant’ and highlighted Rooney’s influence. He added: ‘He’s getting fitter all the time. Some of his football was terrific. He likes to work a bit more forward, but we set up the diamond with him in the middle of the pitch. It gives different options.’ Pardew said: ‘He was a class act. His whole performance and manner, the way he approached the game, was of the highest order.’
Cole to be charged by FA over tweet as Hodgson prepares to drop defender
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER PUBLISHED: 07:25 GMT, 8 October 2012 | UPDATED: 07:29 GMT, 8 October 2012
Ashley Cole will be charged by the FA for his offensive ‘bunch of t***s’ tweet and is set to be dropped for Friday's World Cup qualifier against San Marino.FA officials discussed on Sunday night how to respond to Cole’s Twitter reaction to the independent commission’s report into the John Terry affair.They have decided to slap him with a disrepute charge and a heavy fine is sure to follow. Manager Roy Hodgson is also likely to rest Cole for 'footballing reasons'.
In hot water: Ashley Cole is set to be charged by the FA and left out of the England side to face San Marino
He was already considering it because of Cole’s recent ankle problems and the fact that he probably can afford to rest certain players in preparation for Poland when San Marino should not present England with a problem. Hodgson can also call on Everton’s Leighton Baines, who is having a superb season. But it would leave the FA looking weak if they fail to clarify whether Cole is available for selection.
It is a difficult one for the FA when only last month general secretary Alex Horne was insisting Terry should have made a distinction between disciplinary matters and the England team before retiring from international football. Should Cole be allowed to play on Friday, it will be his 99th cap but privately on Sunday the FA dismissed talk that a decision to mark Cole’s 100th cap by awarding him the captain’s armband against Poland next week had been reversed in the wake of the controversy.
Steven Gerrard will remain captain for what promises to be a hugely important game in Warsaw.It is also complicated by the fact that Hodgson contacted Cole after his outburst on Friday to check he was not about to follow Terry in quitting international football.
But the FA may not want a situation in which Cole is shaking the hand of FA chairman David Bernstein and other dignitaries before the match at Wembley against a backdrop of boos and jeers for the controversial Chelsea full back. It is also complicated by the fact that Hodgson contacted Cole after his outburst on Friday to check he was not about to follow Terry in quitting international football.
But the FA may not want a situation in which Cole is shaking the hand of FA chairman David Bernstein and other dignitaries before the match at Wembley against a backdrop of boos and jeers for the controversial Chelsea full back.
It could be just as uncomfortable for the FA on Tuesday with the squad due to meet the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge at St George’s Park, even though Cole is still expected to meet up with his England colleagues on Monday, having told Hodgson on Friday he planned to report for duty.
At the same time, banning Cole might be something Hodgson is less prepared to do now there is a doubt over the fitness of Arsenal’s Kieran Gibbs, who was selected by Hodgson as a third left back last Thursday but appears to have picked up an injury over the weekend.
Ban him: Shearer, seen here with Cole, called for the defender to be left out the England squad
The FA's decision comes after Cole was embroiled in further controversy when retweeting a message posted by a member of the public that essentially accused Alan Shearer of hypocrisy. Talking on Match of the Day, Shearer called for Cole to be suspended for the San Marino game for his attack on the FA.'I think the FA can put a big statement out here by actually not fining him but actually banning him on Friday,' said Shearer. 'Because we've seen players fined £50,000, £60,000, £70,000. That’s not a deterrent to them.
'Stopping them from playing football will be a deterrent. If they do it quickly, if they do it in four to five days, I think it puts a big statement out to the rest of the players.' Cole hit back by retweeting a message which said: 'Alan Shearer says @TheRealAC3 needs to be banned for comments. I want his opinion on bans for kicking Neil Lennon in the head. #GlassHouses.' That was a reference to Shearer, England captain at the time, tangling with Lennon in a Leicester versus Newcastle match in 1998.
Newcastle to sign shirt sponsorship deal with loans company Wonga
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER PUBLISHED: 11:16 GMT, 8 October 2012 | UPDATED: 11:16 GMT, 8 October 2012
Short-term loans company Wonga are set to become the new shirt sponsor of Newcastle United after the Magpies decided to drop Virgin Money at the end of the season. Wonga, who has been criticised for the interest rates it charges to consumers for loans to tide them over until payday, already sponsor Scottish Premier League club Hearts and Championship side Blackpool. The deal being negotiated is for shirt sponsorship only, rather than also including naming rights to Newcastle’s stadium, a source close to the situation said, without giving any financial details.
New deal: Newcastle are currently sponsored by Virgin Money
Fans were unhappy last year when owner Mike Ashley dropped the St James’ Park name for the club’s home ground in favour of the Sports Direct Arena, after the sports retail chain he founded, pending a permanent sponsorship deal. The prospect of the term Wonga featuring in the club’s stadium name had prompted fresh criticism on fan forums. Newcastle announced last week the club would end its sponsorship deal with Virgin Money at the end of the current season. The partnership was worth only £3million a season and the club were looking for a more lucrative agreement.
Previous: Wonga currently sponsor Blackpool
Clubs are more aware of the potential of shirt sponsorship after Manchester United secured a record deal with General Motors earlier this year worth some £350m million over seven years. A spokeswoman for Wonga declined to comment on the reported Newcastle link but said the company remained committed to working with Blackpool. Premier League rules allow a company to sponsor the shirts of more than one club, meaning a promotion for Blackpool back to the top flight would not impede a deal with Newcastle.
That's a slice of bad luck: Bennett injury reminiscent of Rooney's horror cut
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER PUBLISHED: 20:03 GMT, 7 October 2012 | UPDATED: 20:03 GMT, 7 October 2012
Aston Villa's Joe Bennett was taken to hospital for treatment on a nasty gash on his leg - much like the injury which recently ruled Wayne Rooney out for a month.The defender was left reeling in agony after colliding with an advertising hoarding following a tussle with Gareth Bale during the match at White Hart Lane.
Game over: Bennett was taken off on a stretcher after gashing his leg
Ouch: Bennett suffered this injury after colliding with the advertising hoardings
Villa boss Paul Lambert confirmed his player had been taken to a local hospital to have the wound treated.He said: 'I think he has gone to hospital to get stitched up. It was quite a nasty cut.'The deep wound on the shin of his left leg was reminiscent of the horror-injury sustained by Rooney after Hugo Rodallega's studs sliced into his thigh in August.The Manchester United striker was sidelined for four weeks after undergoing surgery to to stitch the cut back together and revealed the studs of Rodallega's boots missed slicing a major artery by just milimetres.The news comes following another defeat for Villa and manager Paul Lambert felt Christian Benteke's miss proved crucial in the defeat, which saw the visitors drop to 16th in the table.The striker, signed from Genk this summer, missed a free header from Gabriel Agbonlahor's cross early in the second half after Villa intercepted Lloris' mis-directed throw.
Cut above: Rooney suffered a similar injury earlier this season
'That was a big moment,' Lambert said. 'When you have chances like that at a place like this you have to put them away.'Lambert's decision to field Benteke ahead of Darren Bent was a surprise one given that the England striker had come off the bench to score a crucial equaliser against West Brom last week.The Scot defended the decision tonight, saying: 'Christian gives you a different option.'Darren's threat is going in behind. That was the only reason why we did it.'Tottenham's full-backs are going to bomb on at every opportunity so that's why I went with that decision.
Darren has been fine about it.'
Heart of the action: Bennett's team lost 2-0 in the clash at White Hart Lane
Darren Fletcher targets increased first-team action after return to fitness
The Scotland midfielder is excited about the possibility of returning to regular involvement at Manchester United, whilst accepting that it will be difficult to break through
Platt: Richard Wright has a bad back from conceding Kolarov's free-kicks!
The Blues coach has hailed the Serbia international’s dead-ball ability but also the hard work that he has put on the training pitch to gain his recent reputation
It is amazing to be back, says Sagna after appearance for Arsenal Under-21s
The French defender is happy to be playing again after playing 61 minutes of the youth team's victory over Reading
Hodgson relieved to see Cole Twitter issue resolved
The England boss is satisfied the problem has been sorted after the experienced left-back apologised for his outburst at the FA
Waddle: Gerrard capable of replacing Terry in England’s defence
The 51-year-old believes Liverpool’s captain is good enough to adapt his game to fill the void following the Chelsea skipper's decision to call time on his international career
Anderson predicts Manchester United downfall when Sir Alex Ferguson retires
The Brazilian has spent five years playing under the legendary Scottish tactician and is worried the club will struggle to replicate their high-standards when he quits the club
Ogbonna flattered by Liverpool transfer talk
The Torino defender is happy to be linked with a move to Anfield and adds he is interested in a move to the Premier League, but insists he is happy at his current club
Everton boss Moyes and Sunderland striker Fletcher win monthly awards
The Goodison Park chief has won the Manager of the Month, while the Scottish forward has bagged the player's trophy after a blistering start to life at his new club
Arsenal will not break the bank to keep Walcott, says chairman Hill-Wood
The England winger's future at the Emirates Stadium remains shrouded in mystery after he rejected the Gunners' initial offer of a contract extension in the summer
Manchester United & Real Madrid lead shirt sale charts
The English powerhouse and the Liga champions have sold more jerseys than any other team over the past five years
Liverpool and Manchester City lead Arsenal in chase for Zaha
The two north-west giants have made firm enquiries for 19-year-old winger as they weigh up bids of around €12.5 million
Coleman: Allen born to play at the highest level
The former Fulham coach was full of praise for the 22-year-old Reds midfielder after he capped off an extraordinary 12 months by scooping a top national award
Arsenal goalkeeper Vito Mannone targeted by Napoli
The Serie A club are in the market for a new shot-stopper and have pinpointed the 24-year-old Gunners player as a potential target
Elitist England: Shelvey the latest proof of the big-six bias holding Hodgson back
The Liverpool youngster is the latest of several players from the most glamourous clubs rushed into international duty prematurely ahead of more deserving candidates
England lack authority at the back without Ferdinand, according to Pallister
The former Manchester United defender is adamant the 33-year-old centre-back still has plenty to offer his country in the wake of John Terry's international retirement
'Revolutions don't happen in days' - Joe Cole backs Rodgers to come good at Liverpool
The midfielder believes the Northern Irishman deserves patience from Reds fans, despite guiding the Merseyside club to their worst start to a season in 101 years
Capello finding life tough in Russia
The 66-year-old has encountered a number of obstacles as he tries to settle into life in his new coaching post, but he has no doubt that he will tackle the challenge
Phil Jones targets Manchester United return for Chelsea clash
The 20-year-old defender is three weeks away from first-team football again after undergoing knee surgery in September
Lloris dismisses reports of unrest after limited playing time at Tottenham
The France international captain has refuted rumours of a bust-up between himself and the club's staff, instead insisting he hopes to improve after his first Premier League start
Guardiola would be perfect for Arsenal, claims former Barcelona defender Marquez
The New York Red Bulls centre-back believes his former trainer, who he worked with at the Spanish giants for two seasons, will next manage a club in the Premier League
Rodgers slams 'vilification' of Suarez after diving accusations
The Reds boss believes that his striker is not being treated the same as other players following a supposed focus on the Uruguay international, labelling the criticism as unfair
Chelsea midfielder De Bruyne: I am happy at Werder Bremen
The Stamford Bridge loanee took to Twitter to assure the Bremen fans that reports claiming he is unhappy in the country are a result of a poor translation from an interview
Chelsea star Mata confident of Spain recall
The 24-year-old has been in unplayable form for the Blues this season, but has been omitted from Vicente Del Bosque's squad for the latest World Cup qualifiers
Tottenham defender Caulker praises 'humble' Lloris
The France international has struggled to make it into Andre Villas-Boas’ starting XI since moving to White Hart Lane, but the youngster has praised his team-mate's attitude
Giroud: Van Persie a tough act to follow
The widely criticised Frenchman netted his first Premier League goal for the Gunners against West Ham on Saturday and hopes it will prove to be the first of many
Manchester United star Van Persie faces no FA action over Cabaye elbow incident
The three players look to have escaped any punishment after all being involved in separate incidents off the ball that were not seen by the match officials
Richards: People underestimate just how good Lescott is
The Manchester City defender has hailed his team-mate after they combined to deliver the club's first clean sheet of the season against Sunderland in the 3-0 victory on Saturday
Nani is in danger of doing 'a Quaresma' and squandering his talent
Under fire from his own fans and courting controversy for allegedly punching a team-mate, the Portuguese international's career has hit the doldrums
Lloris: I did not sign for Tottenham to be on the bench
The 25-year-old initially struggled to dislodge Brad Friedel as Spurs' No.1 following his arrival from Lyon but started their last Premier League game, a 2-0 win over Aston Villa
Muamba to meet Blatter over Fifa role
The former Bolton midfielder was forced to retire from playing football after suffering a cardiac arrest on the pitch but is keen to secure another role within the game
Del Piero: I rejected move to Liverpool because of Heysel
The Italian legend has explained his decision to snub the Reds in favour of a move to Australia, while admitting he has expected his Juventus exit to go differently
Vieira: Young players do not dream of playing for England
The former World-Cup winning France international believes English youngsters no longer have the desire to represent their national team
Vidic agent 'categorically' rules out Manchester United exit
The Serbian defender has recently struggled with fitness issues but his representative insists he will not leave Old Trafford, despite reported interest from Juventus
Agger 'proud' to commit future to Liverpool
The 26-year-old has expressed delight at having signed a long-term contract with the Merseyside club and is backing new boss Brendan Rodgers to be a success
De Gea: There's no reason to doubt Casillas
The former Atletico glovesman believes the Madrid man remains the best shot stopper around, and feels goalkeepers deserve more respect
Brave Wenger not afraid to spend, says Arsenal chief Gazidis
The Gunners boss has faced criticism for his perceived lack of activity in the transfer market in recent seasons, but he has now been publicly backed by the club's hierarchy
Vieira: FFP would not stop Manchester City buying Falcao
The Premier League champions' development executive says there will be no repeat of their previous lavish spending, but there is still room for "exceptional" players
Podolski: I'll play left-back for Germany if I have to
The striker has featured for 30 minutes during his national side's World Cup qualification campaign so far but insists he is not concerned about which position he plays
Michael Owen eager to represent England again
The Stoke City striker, who has scored 40 goals for the Three Lions, believes he still has the ability to impress on the international stage despite a four-year absence
Arsenal keeper Mannone wants to join AC Milan in the future
The Gunners' goalkeeper has spoken of his desire to return to Italy and play at San Siro, but first he wants to take Wojciech Szczesny's starting spot on a permanent basis
Cazorla enjoying important role at Arsenal
The 27-year-old is still hoping to improve his game with the north London side, while he labelled it a "privilege" to be involved with Spain's national team in any capacity
Former FA chairman Triesman: Terry ban should have been the same as Suarez's
The former head of English football's governing body believes the Chelsea captain should accept his punishment and apologise after making comments to QPR's Anton Ferdinand
Chuba Akpom signs first professional contract with Arsenal
The exciting young forward has been rewarded for promising displays for club and country by signing with the north London club after turning 17 earlier in the week
Wanyama: I'm aware of Manchester United rumours but still happy at Celtic
The defensive midfielder's reputation continues to grow in Scotland and a number of Premier League clubs - including the Red Devils - are closely monitoring his progress
Kyle Walker hails Neville influence
The 22-year old Tottenham right-back has hailed the positive impact the former Red Devils defender and current England coach has had on his defensive development
Trapattoni dismisses Blackburn talk
The 73-year-old is one of many big names being suggested as candidates for the Rovers job after Steve Kean's departure, but revealed he has no intention of making the move
Vermaelen: Wilshere can be a world-beater
The Belgian centre-back has backed the Gunners' 20-year old playmaker to become one of the best midfielders on the planet, and believes his return will lift the north London side
The Premier League has evolved, says Arsenal boss Wenger
The Gunners manager has discussed the changes in tactical flexibility and formations which have taken place since he took charge at Highbury in 1996
Arteta Spain snub 'strange', says Arsenal team-mate Cazorla
The former Everton midfielder has yet to earn an international cap, despite consistently impressing the Premier League and proving a key man since his recent move to the Gunners
Vertonghen eyes central defensive role at Tottenham
The Belgian has filled in at left-back since his arrival from Ajax due to the absence of Benoit Assou-Ekotto but has expressed his preference for playing in the middle
AC Milan to tempt Chelsea with January bid for Ashley Cole
The controversial defender's contract is set to expire this summer and, with the Blues only willing to offer a year extension, he could be tempted by a move to Serie A
Oscar excited about Chelsea challenge for Club World Cup
The summer signing from Internacional is looking forward to the prospect of potentially facing his former club's rivals, Corinthians, in December's tournament in Japan
Rooney: I want to be England's Eric Cantona
The 26-year-old striker is aiming to emulate the talismanic former Red Devils man and admits his performances at international level have not met his own standards
Mancini concerned by injured Kompany's Belgium stance
The Citizens centre-back is with his national side despite having picked up a knock, and has made it clear that he wants to play during the international break
I need to be more of a threat for Manchester United, says Kagawa
The 23-year-old Japanese playmaker has scored twice for the Red Devils since his move from Borussia Dortmund, but has been told to get in to more dangerous positions by coaches
Oct 10, 2012 11:50:00 AM
By Tom J Doyle
Manchester United summer signing Shinji Kagawa has been told by the club he must adapt his game in order to become more of a threat in the Premier League.
The former Borussia Dortmund attacking midfielder starred for his former club netting 21 goals in 49 appearances, and while he has scored twice in six appearances for United, Kagawa revealed he has been instructed to be more dangerous.
And the Japanese playmaker appears to have been ordered to stay forward and face the opposition goal so as not to drop back too deep and nullify his goalscoring instincts.
"They have told me not to face the goal with my back, but move my body so I have a short way to the goal," he told reporters.
"[I must] shape my body so I am facing the stands. I have to face the goal or I won't be a threat."
The 23-year-old playmaker is an industrious worker, with Dortmund utilising his impressive work rate in order to play a high-pressing game, yet Kagawa feels he needs to get stronger to cope with the Premier League: "I've realised that I need to limber up and strengthen my body trunk."
Kagawa played out on the right for the first hour of United's 3-0 away win at Newcastle United on Sunday, with his normal position behind the strikers being occupied by Wayne Rooney, who tweeted after the game: "Really enjoying my new midfield role, always involved", suggesting Kagawa may have a challenge for his preferred role.
However, Sir Alex Ferguson has praised the Japanese player, stating: "We're very pleased with Shinji. Adapting to English football isn't easy but bit by bit he's getting down to that part.
You always try and improve your players; that's our job as coaches and hopefully we can improve Kagawa."
Llambias thrilled with Newcastle's Wonga sponsorship deal
The Magpies' managing director feels the club are in a strong position on and off the field after securing a controversial four-year deal with the internet loan company
Oct 10, 2012 6:23:00 PM
By Simon Sinclair
Newcastle managing director Derek Llambias has revealed his delight at securing the club's financial and footballing future after signing a new sponsorship deal with Wonga.com. The Magpies signed a lucrative four-year-deal with the internet loan company, who will become the club's shirt sponsor for the start of the 2013-14 season.
The organisation have also renamed the team's stadium St James' Park, and will invest in the club's academy. This follows the eight-year contract extensions recently handed to manager Alan Pardew and members of his backroom staff. Llambias has admitted he is elated with the business the club has done over the past two weeks.
He told the Journal: "It's been a big fortnight - a very big fortnight. For me, it's all about stability. "To be able to get the coaching staff and the manager on side for eight-year deals, and then complete our sponsorship deal with Wonga, plus the stadium naming rights as part of that - it's a good two weeks, it's a very good two weeks for the club.
"It's all about the season for us now. It's about getting the injuries cleared up - but that's Alan's job. Thank God I don't have to get too involved in that." The managing director feels the club have bounced back from a difficult start under Mike Ashley, when supporters were calling for him to sell the club early into his Newcastle reign.
However, he now feels the Magpies are in a strong position on and off the field, and is confident of future success under Ashley. Llambias admitted: "We started off poorly. I came in after the first year, I picked up from there and it's been a difficult, difficult period.
"We have been plugging away, slowly. You don't understand what we have done - we have done a good job. We have been realistic about what this club can do and what it can do in the future. "Financially we are stable and we will get stronger and stronger. You have to understand, we have got an owner who is not used to failure. What we have got now is a very good format moving forward."
Newcastle manager Alan Pardew was equally buoyant about the deal and claimed that it could even help the club to break into the top-four.
"It's about building the first team and it's about having the financial muscle to start improving the academy – that's an area where we've lagged behind some of the senior clubs," he said. "Now there's no reason why we can't be one of those top-four clubs, especially on an organisational front."
Introducing Wilfried Zaha - the Palace prodigy Liverpool & Manchester City are desperate to land
Valued at around €12.5 million and also interesting Arsenal, the forward is one of England's hottest properties and the latest in a long line of Selhurst Park graduates
Oct 10, 2012 6:45:00 AM
PROFILE
By Ed Aarons
It didn't take long for Wilfried Zaha to make his mark at Crystal Palace. Less than 20 minutes into his full debut against Leicester City on the opening day of the 2010-11 season, the spindly 17-year-old, born in Ivory Coast's capital city of Abidjan, scored his first goal at Selhurst Park as Palace went on to win 3-2.
Two years and more than 90 appearances in the Championship later, Zaha is being touted as the hottest property outside the Premier League, with Manchester City and Liverpool leading the chase for his signature. as Goalcom exclusively revealed on Tuesday.
Sensational displays in the space of just a few days against Wolves and Burnley yielded four goals, a call-up to the England Under-21s squad and a whole host of new admirers.
Always blessed with the ability to beat players at will, which has inspired the chant "He's just too good for you" among the Palace faithful, a summer spent bulking up in the gym seems to have added a cutting edge to Zaha's trickery.
Manager Dougie Freedman continues to use his star player on the right or left flank in a 4-2-3-1 formation but recognises that he could eventually be most effective in a more central role.
"That's been thought of but he's not quite got his movement right," Freedman – a former Palace striker himself - told Goal.com before Zaha's double against Burnley in a 4-3 win.
"Wilfried's best when he looks somebody in the eyes and the guy starts crying. I think eventually he could be just off the front man but I think the other side of his game is better at the moment. He's had about 100 games to grow and I would say another 50 or 60 and he can start understanding how to play a different position."
Already nearly halfway to last season's total of nine goals that won him the Football League's Young Player of the Year award, Zaha is clearly making rapid progress under Freedman's tutelage. But with the Premier League vultures circling, Palace's resolve to keep the latest talent off their south London production line will be severely tested in January.
Chelsea new boy Victor Moses - like Zaha, born in Africa but schooled in Croydon - was sold to Wigan for a cut-price £2.5 million a couple of months before Palace's latest darling made his debut as a substitute against Cardiff City in March 2010.
With the club mired in administration, owner Simon Jordan was forced to let Moses leave - but things are very different these days.
Chairman Steve Parish secured Zaha on a new five-and-a-half-year deal last December designed to ward off any suitors and that shrewd bit of business means Palace would not accept any less than at least €12.5m for a player who turns 20 in November. What's more, it seems that he is happy to continue developing at the club he joined at the age of 15 - especially after Sunderland's Adam Johnson advised any young English players against moving to City due to a lack of first-team opportunities.
Part of a family of nine brothers who moved to London when he was just a child, Zaha is also extremely close to his family in Mitcham and admitted last month that he suffered from homesickness while he was away with the England Under-21s. But, having been schooled at the famous Asec Mimosas academy in Abidjan that has produced such luminaries as Yaya Toure and Gervinho after being established in the 1990s by lawyer Roger Ouegnin, he could have another major choice to make.
Ivory Coast officials are believed to have made enquiries about whether Zaha would be interested in representing the country of his birth at January's Africa Cup of Nations, with Fifa rules allowing players to switch allegiance even if they have represented another nation at junior level.
England have already let Moses slip through the net to Nigeria but this is one African pearl whom Roy Hodgson should be desperate to keep.
The 32-year-old Stoke striker has admitted to going to ground easily in the past and believes that players who win penalties could often have stayed on their feet
Oct 11, 2012 11:15:00 AM
By James McManus
Stoke striker Michael Owen has confessed to diving in order to win a penalty whilst playing for England.
Owen's club manager Tony Pulis last week called for players who dive to be given retrospective bans, following Luis Suarez's attempt to gain a spot-kick during Liverpool's recent clash with the Potters.
However, the 32-year-old, who last represented the Three Lions in 2008, has revealed he has simulated in the past.
"I’m totally against diving but I’d say that 75 per cent of people could stay on their feet for a penalty," Owen wrote on Twitter.
"I have been guilty as well, at the 1998 World Cup I was running flat out, got a nudge, went down. Could I have stayed up? Yes probably."
Exclusive: Swansea manager Laudrup facing a players' rebellion after secret meetings
By NEIL ASHTON and RIATH AL-SAMARRAI PUBLISHED: 21:30 GMT, 10 October 2012 | UPDATED: 07:03 GMT, 11 October 2012
Michael Laudrup is on a collision course at Swansea after key players held a series of secret meetings with chairman Huw Jenkins about the Dane's management methods. Despite being 11th in the Barclays Premier League, Laudrup is facing a rebellion among his senior stars after three months at the club. The latest meeting between chairman and players took place last week as frustrations began to boil over before their 2-2 Premier League home draw against Reading last Saturday.
Collision course: Players are unhappy with Laudrup
Swansea players have been angered by Laudrup's demands for a change to their tactical approach and are reluctant to adopt his methods. There are also fears among the squad that they are not as fit under their new manager. Some have even taken to staying behind after training for extra fitness work. Jenkins is also considering complaints from players that Laudrup's training methods are not as advanced as those of the previous coach, Brendan Rodgers.Swansea's players are still adjusting to life after Rodgers and they are finding it difficult to adapt to Laudrup's approach.
Rodgers captivated his squad with his forward-thinking approach and they responded by winning promotion via the play-offs before finishing 11th in the Premier League last season. The Liverpool boss has first-class communication skills and Swansea's players have noted a big difference between Laudrup and their previous boss. Jenkins is acting as mediator in the dispute but he has been aware of the concerns among the squad since the start of the season.
Wayne's world: Routledge scored in the comeback draw against Reading
The Swansea chairman has no plans to fire Laudrup and is determined his model of continuity will thrive in the post-Rodgers era. Incredibly, Jenkins was approached by key players days before the start of the season as they adjusted to life without the new Liverpool manager. The chairman noted their observations and has held further meetings with players, without Laudrup's knowledge, to assess the situation.
The latest came days before Swansea recovered from a two-goal deficit against promoted Reading to secure a point. On the surface, Swansea appear to have nothing to be concerned about after picking up eight points from their opening seven Premier League games.
Laudrup made a flying start to the season with a 5-0 win at QPR on the opening day and followed it up with a 3-0 victory over West Ham at the Liberty Stadium the following Saturday. Since then they have drawn against Sunderland and Reading and lost to Everton and Stoke. They face Wigan on October 20 before a tough trip to champions Manchester City seven days later.
Battle: Swansea are 11th in the Premier League table
Jenkins confirmed the meetings had taken place but insisted Laudrup continues to have his full support. He said: 'As with any change in manager, particularly at a club who have been successful, it will take time to settle down. 'Everyone has a different approach and this is a normal issue for us after Brendan Rodgers went to Liverpool. Michael knew the philosophy of the club when he came here and that won't change whether he is the manager or not. They all agree to manage the club a certain way.'
Laudrup enjoyed a hugely successful playing career with Barcelona, Real Madrid, Juventus and Ajax but his managerial record has been mixed. He coached in the Champions League with Spartak Moscow but left Real Mallorca at the end of last season after winning just 13 games. The former Denmark midfielder was appointed manager by Swansea to evolve the playing system put in place when Roberto Martinez was in charge.
I don't care what Pulis thinks! Unrepentant Suarez blasts back in growing diving row
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER PUBLISHED: 08:42 GMT, 11 October 2012 | UPDATED: 09:01 GMT, 11 October 2012
Luis Suarez has hit back at Tony Pulis in the row over his 'dive' against Stoke, saying he doesn't care what the Potters boss - or anyone else - thinks about his behaviour. The controversial Uruguay striker has attracted huge criticism for going down the penalty area in the stalemate at Anfield last Sunday. Pulis branded Suarez an 'embarrassment' while a host of other high-profile figures in the game have queued up to hammer the Reds frontman.
Back home: Luis Suarez (left) in training with the Uruguay squad in Montevideo
Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has leapt to his defence, however, insisting his man had been unfairly 'vilified' for his theatrics. But Suarez, preparing for his country's World Cup qualifying double-header against Argentina and Bolivia, claims he is unaffected by the growing row and is focused purely on helping Liverpool improve on a poor start to the new campaign.
Eye on the ball: Suarez (left) and Egidio Arevalo Rios (centre) in training ahead of the World Cup qualifiers
'Any manager can say what he wants about me but it doesn’t affect me,' said Suarez. 'I am not worried about what they say. Let them carry on talking. 'In the meantime I will continue to play football and to concern myself with my team and with what I do. Nothing else matters.'
Vilified? Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers says more attention should have been paid to a 'stamp' by Robert Huth on Suarez (left) than the striker's apparent 'dive' (right) against Stoke at Anfield last Sunday
Rueful smile: Suarez reacts after his appeal for a penalty against Stoke was turned down
Among the high-profile figures taking issue with Suarez's behaviour this week has been FIFA vice-president Jim Boyce, who labelled diving a 'cancer' within football and called for guilty players to be banned retrospectively. Boyce, who is Great Britain’s representative on the FIFA board, said: ‘I have seen several incidents recently and I watched the latest Suarez incident two or three times. To me it is nothing less than a form of cheating. ‘It is becoming a little bit of a cancer within the game and I believe if it is clear to everyone that it is simulation then that person is trying to cheat and they should be severely punished.'
