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Dempsey fined by Fulham as boss Jol admits Liverpool target can leave Craven Cottage
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER PUBLISHED: 12:36 GMT, 17 August 2012 | UPDATED: 16:09 GMT, 17 August 2012
Fulham have fined forward Clint Dempsey for refusing to play for the club.Cottagers manager Martin Jol revealed on Friday that Dempsey would not be included in the club's squad for the Barclays Premier League opener against Norwich. Sportsmail understands that the American, who scored 23 goals for his club last year, has refused to play for the west London club as he seeks to secure a move to Liverpool, and Fulham have fined him for taking that stance.
Time for a change: Liverpool target Clint Dempsey is set to leave Fulham
Dempsey pulled out of Fulham's pre-season training camp in Switzerland earlier this month after the Reds confirmed they were interested in signing him.The Anfield club have yet to make an official bid but Jol thinks the player is not in the right frame of mind to play against the Canaries at Craven Cottage on Saturday afternoon. The Fulham manager said: 'Clint was not involved over the last four weeks so he is not going to be in the squad. He is not committed to the club. He wants to leave.'I would like to keep him, but I think it's impossible. It's a sad and an almost embarrassing situation.'If we get the right price for Clint we will sell him. If not, he will stay.'
Not amused: Martin Jol was annoyed with Liverpool as they tracked Dempsey
West Ham failed in their attempts to lure Dempsey to Upton Park.Liverpool's manager Brendan Rodgers told his own club's website last month that he had made an inquiry about the player.Then the website for Massachusetts-based news channel New England Sports Network (NESN), owned by Anfield proprietors Fenway Sports Group, also published a story claiming Dempsey was a Liverpool player.
Liverpool have infuriated Jol with these actions.
'That was very disappointing,' the Dutchman said. 'There was never an offer. Clint himself told everyone he was going to Liverpool before he came back so we really thought there was quite a firm interest in him.
American dream: Brendan Rodgers wants Dempsey at Liverpool
'Even (Rodgers) told everyone he was interested in Clint Dempsey, but our people never had an offer on the table, so it's almost embarrassing.'If you have shown interest in a player, especially in England, you have to follow it up with an offer. They didn't.'Dempsey, 29, has made it clear he wants to move to a bigger club, and has been training separately from his team-mates this summer, but Jol insists the American will not be sold cheaply.'Maybe Liverpool will come back,' Jol said.
'I can assure you that our chairman is strong enough. At first we didn't want to get rid of him, later on we had to change our position.'But our view is that we won't let Clint Dempsey go on the cheap, that's for sure.'Clint told me he wants to go to a Champions League club. I'm not sure if Liverpool is in the Champions League but if you look at the size of Liverpool, it's like a Champions League club.
'We'll have to wait and see what happens, but for us it's a sad situation and embarrassing.'
It is not just Liverpool and Dempsey who have made Jol angry.
Real deal: Madrid have been linked with a move for Fulham's Moussa Dembele
Mousa Dembele's agent, Jan de Visser, told Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf two weeks ago that Spanish champions Real Madrid had made a bid for the Cottagers forward, who had an outstanding season last year.
Jol denied that was the case and contacted Dembele's agent to tick him off for going to the media with the story.
The former Spurs boss said: 'I spoke to his agent and I said to him it's not the cleverest thing to do, to speak about players.'There was no offer on the table (from Madrid) and hopefully the situation will stay as it is. Hopefully Dembele will stay here.'Jol did admit that there had been one bid for an unnamed Barclays Premier League team for the player, however.
'There was one low bid from one Premier League club, very low,' Jol said.'Mousa is quite happy here. He wants to play here and if something happens, we will have to wait.'
Cheeky Wilshere forgets RVP when hailing Arsenal legends to wear his No 10 shirt
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER PUBLISHED: 12:31 GMT, 17 August 2012 | UPDATED: 12:32 GMT, 17 August 2012
New Arsenal No 10 Jack Wilshere has delivered a cheeky parting shot to Robin van Persie after hailing 'real club legends' to have worn the shirt, and not mentioning the Dutchman.
The former captain completed his £24million move to Manchester United on Friday, vacating the No 10 he had worn for two seasons.
Wilshere, who hasn't featured for the Gunners for more than a year through injury, has left his No 19 jersey for new boy Santi Cazorla and taking on a shirt number synonymous with the creative hub of attack.
Come in No 10: Jack Wilshere has inherited Robin van Persie's shirt at Arsenal
Before Van Persie, William Gallas bizarrely held the coveted spot, inheriting it from Arsenal legend Dennis Bergkamp after the Dutchman retired.
England international Wilshere, who hopes to be fit by the end of October, said: "It's such an honour for me. Getting the No 10 shirt again at the Club means so much to me as I wore it all through the youth teams at Arsenal.
'It has a special place for all attacking or creative players. I feel proud to wear it now after some real Club legends have worn it, such as Dennis Bergkamp.'
'Now I am even more excited about returning to action and honouring the shirt.'
Sir Alex Ferguson: Van Persie will help rather than hinder Welbeck
The Manchester United boss dismissed suggestions the Dutchman's arrival will halt the young striker's development, instead insisting the 21-year-old can learn from the new signing
Song will easily adapt at Barcelona, says Ignasi Miquel
The Spanish youngster, who came through the ranks of the Barca academy, believes that the Cameroon midfielder will fit right in at the Camp Nou side
Spalletti: Zenit interested in signing Afellay, Hulk & Nani
The Russian giants are determined to add a high-profile name to their squad this summer, and have earmarked a number of candidates
Rodgers will put his heart into Liverpool job, says Allen
The Welsh midfielder followed the 39-year-old from Swansea to Anfield this summer and has backed the new Reds boss to turn things around on Merseyside
Wenger: Arsenal fans must accept Van Persie sale as 'brutal reality' of football
The Gunners' boss hailed the Dutchman's professionalism during the transfer saga and says the club's supporters should not forget his contribution to the team down the years
Liverpool need to keep Carroll - Keegan
The England international has been linked with a move away from Anfield all summer, with a return to former club Newcastle mooted as a possibility
Nine out of 10 fans believe ticket prices are too high
Survey conducted by the Football Supporters Federation reveals fans feel the cost of going to matches across the country is too expensive which may leave empty seats in Stadiums
Universidad de Chile confirm Manchester United move for Angelo Henriquez
The teenager has completed a medical ahead of a proposed move to the Premier League giants, with the Chilean club announcing the deal will be completed by the end of the month
Van Persie signing 'an absolute game-changer', claims Peter Schmeichel
The 48-year-old has claimed that the signing of the Netherlands international from their title rivals has seen the Red Devils become the strongest force in the Premier League
Moyes: Everton right to let Rodwell join Manchester City
The Scot insists the deal was right for both the player and the club, and is now targeting further additions to his squad before the close of the transfer window
Southampton bid for Ramirez rejected, claims Bologna president
Only days after telling the media he was close to a deal to join the Premier League side, the Italian club's boardmember has poured cold water on any possible switch
Dempsey: The truth will come out soon over Fulham bust-up
Last season's top goalscorer has refuted claims by manager Martin Jol that he withdrew from Saturday's matchday squad to face Norwich City to push an exit from the club
QPR confirm signing of former Chelsea defender Bosingwa
The 29-year-old two-time Champions League winner has joined the R's after rejecting reported interest from Inter, Anzhi and former club Porto to stay in the Premier League
Hugo Sanchez backs Chicharito despite uncertain Manchester United future
The 54-year-old former Mexico international believes that the young forward has what it takes to still be a success in the Premier League, but that he must remain "calm"
Suarez: My career goal is to win the Premier League with Liverpool
The Uruguayan forward warns that "I usually get what I want" with the target of bringing domestic glory back to Anfield after 22 seasons and counting without winning the title
Mancini demands new signings to defend Manchester City's title
The Citizens' boss has voiced his frustrations at missing out on high-profile targets in the summer transfer window, despite the £15m signing of Everton starlet Jack Rodwell
Michael Carrick confident Manchester United can reclaim 2012-13 Premier League title
The 31-year-old midfielder stated that despite the heartbreak of losing out to the blue half of the city on the final day, Sir Alex Ferguson's men are ready to fight this season
Di Matteo hoping Lampard will extend Chelsea career
The 34-year-old is entering the final year of his contract but the Italian boss believes that he still has a part to play at Stamford Bridge by slightly adapting his role
Reality check for Rodgers revolution as Liverpool show old habits die hard
The Reds were dealt a harsh dose of reality after being soundly beaten in their opening league game of the season, which just puts into perspective the long-term outlook required
Keegan backs Manchester City to retain Premier League title
The former Citizens boss believes Roberto Mancini's side are the current favourites for the crown this campaign, despite a summer of inactivity in the transfer market
Two months out for injured Rio Ferdinand as defensive crisis deepens at Manchester United
The 33-year-old has suffered a leg muscle injury in training and joins fellow defenders Jonny Evans, Chris Smalling and Phil Jones on the treatment table
Wenger must cure Van Persie hangover by spending big as Giroud & Podolski fail to shine on Arsenal debuts
The Gunners need all the firepower on which they can get their hands before the window closes as new signings cannot be expected to fill the void left by the captain's departure
Manchester City once mistakenly bid for Messi, reveals new book
The Premier League champions have been big spenders in recent years, but once accidentally submitted an offer for the Barcelona star after a communication error with their owners
Jol confirms no bids have been made for Dempsey
The Dutchman has blasted fans' chants about the American midfielder and hopes that he can persuade last season's top scorer to remain at Craven Cottage, despite his desire to leave
Bologna supporters protest against potential Ramirez sale to Southampton
Rossoblu fans are unhappy that the Uruguayan talent is on the verge of being sold, although it is unlikely they will be able to halt the proceedings
Manchester City to bring forward Balotelli contract talks
The Premier League champions are wary of the Italian's sell-on value diminishing and will fast-track negotiations on a fresh agreement as reward for the striker's growing status
Sunderland on the verge of €14m deal for Manchester City outcast Johnson
The England winger has expressed his frustration at not getting enough game time at the Etihad Stadium and the Black Cats are close to providing him with an escape route
Pardew apologises for pushing official
The Newcastle manager was sent to the stands for shoving Stuart Burt during his side's 2-1 victory over Tottenham and admits that his actions were "ridiculous" and "stupid"
'I'm not going after goals' - Newcastle striker Ba
The Senegalese frontman opened his account for the new campaign in the Magpies' opening day win, but insists results for the club come before his own personal achievements
Wenger on Song move: We did our job & influenced his career in a positive way
The Frenchman also says his team could still bring in another player before the close of the transfer window after the club saw another key man depart
Villas-Boas hoping to quickly conclude striker search after Newcastle defeat
Tottenham fell to a 2-1 defeat at the hands of the Magpies on Saturday and, despite an impressive display from Jermain Defoe, the Spurs boss is keen to land reinforcements
Wenger confident Giroud can deal with Van Persie burden despite Sunderland shocker
The Gunners boss is confident that the France striker can replace the departed Dutchman's goals this season but is hoping for an improvement following the opening-day draw
Newcastle 2-1 Tottenham: Ben Arfa spot on as Villas-Boas' Spurs reign gets off to losing start
Demba Ba was also on the scoresheet for the hosts, opening their account ahead of Jermain Defoe's equaliser, but a late penalty from the Frenchman was enough for all three points
O'Neill hails defensive display after Arsenal draw
The Gunners dominated possession, particularly in the second half, but the visitors held firm and were able to start the season with a hard-fought point and a clean sheet
Penalties and Agger red card 'very, very harsh', bemoans Rodgers
Despite suffering their biggest opening day loss in the top flight since 1937, the Reds' boss was pleased with the effort his players showed after being reduced to ten men
Clarke: West Brom deserved even more against Liverpool
Despite running out comfortable winners, the new boss believes his side could have won by an even bigger margin after they shocked his former side on the opening day of the season
Arsenal agree £15m sale of Song to Barcelona
A transfer fee has been set between the Gunners and the Catalan giants after much speculation over the future of the Cameroon international, who will undergo a medical on Monday
Arsenal 0-0 Sunderland: Defiant Black Cats frustrate new boys Cazorla, Podolski and Giroud
The Gunners were held to draw at the Emirates Stadium after being unable to find a way past a stubborn Black Cats side with the £12 million Frenchman missing a sitter on his debut
West Brom 3-0 Liverpool: Lukaku seals victory as Agger sees red to cap miserable day for Rodgers
The new boss' first match in charge of the Baggies could not have gone better as they picked up a fairly surprising three points, with the Chelsea loanee impressing from the bench
Villas-Boas aiming for Champions League spot, reveals Dawson
The England international claims that the new boss is aiming to get the club back into the Champions League after agonisingly missing out last season due to Chelsea's triumph
Van Persie can emulate Cantona, says Sir Alex Ferguson
The arrival of 'King Eric' proved the catalyst for United's Premier League dominance in the 90s, and the Red Devils' boss now hopes the same can be said for his new £24m signing
Fergie to quit Old Trafford in two years as United boss lines up swoop for Baines
By JOE BERNSTEIN PUBLISHED: 21:45 GMT, 18 August 2012 | UPDATED: 00:26 GMT, 19 August 2012
Sir Alex Ferguson has planned his exit strategy from Manchester United and will quit in two years' time after building his last great team around Wayne Rooney and last week's £24million capture from Arsenal, Robin van Persie.
And the legendary Old Trafford manager, who begins his 28th season in charge of United at Everton on Monday night, claims the Glazer family will back him again if he makes a formal bid for England left-back Leighton Baines before the end of the transfer window on August 31.
On his way? Alex Ferguson (left) is believed to be ready to leave Manchester United after the next two seasons
Ferguson, 70, took personal control of the Van Persie signing and called Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger directly to ensure his final chapter at Old Trafford is successful, having lost the title to Roberto Mancini's Manchester City on the final day of the season in May.
And he persuaded the Glazers, against the advice of other senior figures at the club, to rubberstamp a £64m investment in transfer fee and wages for Van Persie, even though the 29-year-old Dutchman will have a limited re-sale value.
A source said: 'Alex will only be manager for a couple more years so it was time the owners gave him what he wanted. That's Van Persie.'
Ferguson might even enter the market again to land Baines, who is valued at £17m by his club Everton.
Lining up another: The Glazer family are ready to back the manager's bid to sign Leighton Baines from Everton
'There is only one position in particular we are looking at,' the manager said. 'We've splashed out quite a bit of money this summer but I'm sure if I went to the Glazers, they'd say ''yes''.'Ferguson will decide on the evidence of Van Persie's first two training sessions before deciding whether his new signing will start in Monday night's Barclays Premier League visit to Goodison Park.
Ferguson was at Craven Cottage on Saturday to run the rule over Fulham, next weekend's opponents.
United have received two solid inquiries from Italian clubs for Dimitar Berbatov.
Darren Fletcher, 28, who is battling ulcerative colitis, continued his comeback on Saturday with a 90-minute run-out in United's 1-0 win at Stoke in the Barclays Under-21 Premier League.
Got his man: Ferguson signed Robin van Persie from Arsenal for £24million
Got his man: Ferguson signed Robin van Persie from Arsenal for £24million
Oops! City bid £30m for Barcelona superstar Messi - by accident!
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER PUBLISHED: 09:50 GMT, 19 August 2012 | UPDATED: 09:50 GMT, 19 August 2012
Manchester City once made a £30million bid for Barcelona's Lionel Messi by mistake.The offer was made following a breakdown in communication between club officials as Sheikh Mansour wrapped up his £210m takeover of the club in 2009.Unsurprisingly, City's offer was rejected and they turned their attentions to Robino, who joined hours later for £32m.
Messi mistake: Manchester City made an accidental bid for the Barcelona star
The stunning revelation was detailed by former chief executive Garry Cook in a new book on the history of the club - 'The Manchester City Years' by Gary James.It explained that City officials were finalising Sheikh Mansour's plans by telephone.Cook said: 'He (an executive) made a comment like ‘it’s all getting messy.
’
Main man: City were unsurprisingly unsuccessful with their offer for Messi
'Via the telephones and other communication lines, this somehow translated into "get Messi."'An offer was made for Lionel Messi of about £30million. Needless to say, it was rejected.'
Gerrard admits 'total shock' at 3-0 Liverpool loss to West Brom
The 32-year-old did not think that the Reds deserved to lose by such a margin, suggesting "quite a few things" went against them, but warns that they must not dwell on the defeat
Arsenal starlet Wellington joins Ponferradina on loan
The 19-year-old returns to Spain for his third loan spell away from the Gunners to earn valuable experience, having never made a first-team appearance for the Premier League side
West Ham still paying for Tevez deal, admits Sullivan
The Hammers co-owner says the club still owe over €12m after the Argentine's illegal move helped them stay in the Premier League at the expense of Sheffield United
McEachran joins Middlesbrough from Chelsea on season-long loan
The 19-year-old midfielder is set to join the Championship club on a temporary deal after struggling to break into Roberto Di Matteo's first-team plans
Barcelona beware: Why Alex Song is one of the most overrated players in the world
The Cameroon international's transfer from the Emirates to Camp Nou will soon be official, but the Blaugrana are signing a tactically and technically deficient midfielder
Manchester City in advanced talks to buy Jovetic from Fiorentina for €30m
The Premier League champions made a move for the Montenegro forward after missing out on Robin van Persie to rivals Manchester United after a long pursuit
Wenger: Arsenal are looking to bring in a midfielder and a defender
With injury concerns over Wilshere, Sagna & Koscielny and following Song's departure to Barcelona, the Gunners boss has revealed he hopes to sign further players
Tottenham boss Villas-Boas hails 'deadly' Defoe
The England international has started the season in fine form and the former Chelsea manager insists that the striker will play an important role at White Hart Lane this term
Liverpool defender Agger to contest sending-off
The Dane was dismissed in the Reds' opening day defeat at West Brom and, whilst he does not blame referee Phil Dowd for his "mistake", he will appeal the suspension
Ba hails hard work as he gets back among the goals for Newcastle
Last season's top scorer on Tyneside netted his first strike since February in the Magpies' opening day victory over Tottenham and was happy to turn around his form
Ferguson uncertain over Van Persie role in Manchester United opener
The PFA Player of the Year is expected to make his Red Devils debut against Everton at Goodison Park on Monday but is not a certainty to make the starting line-up
Marchisio: Pogba is going to be a great player
The Italy international feels the former Manchester United starlet has a lot of quality, while stating his delight with Sebastian Giovinco's return to the club
That's why they're champions: Manchester City produce another thrilling comeback to start title defence
Roberto Mancini's men made hard work of a straightforward task but the ability to solve self-made problems is a hallmark of so many great Manchester United sides of the past
Giroud unconcerned by debut miss for Arsenal
The newly-signed striker spurned a golden opportunity to give the Gunners a win on Saturday but insists that the goals will come from him, if given time to settle
Cazorla urges Arsenal to replace Van Persie & Song
The newly-signed Spaniard has called for boss Arsene Wenger to enter the transfer market in order to add further quality following two high-profile departures
Sir Alex Ferguson faces Kagawa dilemma after Van Persie arrival
The signing of the prolific Dutch striker from Arsenal is a great boost to Manchester United but does raise questions over the role of their other major summer addition
Giggs expecting Everton 'battle' in Manchester United opener
The Toffees' shock draw at Old Trafford last season was a key result in costing the Red Devils the title and the veteran midfielder is keen to avoid another slip-up on Monday
Arsenal new boy Cazorla could be the buy of the season, says Wenger
The Gunners manager spoke of being highly impressed with the Spaniard's debut on Saturday, and believes the attacker could be a key player for his side this campaign
Azpilicueta 'a great professional' - Baup praises defender amid Chelsea interest
The 57-year-old trainer revealed his delight at the concentration of the Spaniard in OM's 2-0 win over Sochaux, despite an impending transfer to the Blues
Aguero eases Manchester City's concerns over his knee injury
The Argentine is set to undergo a scan on Monday to reveal the extent of the problem following a collision with Nathaniel Clyne in Sunday's win over Southampton
Vitesse left-back Buttner on verge of Manchester United move
The defender had been close to joining Southampton before a move to the newly promoted Premier League club fell through, with QPR and Fulham also linked earlier this summer
Hazard not getting carried away after impressive Premier League debut for Chelsea
The Belgian attacker won a penalty and laid on an assist in his first league outing for the Blues as they defeated Wigan 2-0 with two goals in the first seven minutes
Mancini: The result was good, but we need to improve
The Italian was pleased to take three points from the opening game against Southampton but stressed that the champions must look to be more clinical in their upcoming matches
Di Matteo praises 'outstanding' Hazard
The Belgian youngster made his first start for Chelsea in their routine 2-0 Premier League win over Wigan and played an instrumental role in their comfortable victory
Manchester City 3-2 Southampton: Dzeko & Nasri earn champions thrilling comeback victory
The duo scored to grab three points in dramatic style after Rickie Lambert and Steven Davis had emerged from the substitutes' bench to cancel out Carlos Tevez's opening goal
Fellaini reveals he advised Moyes on Mirallas signing
The Belgian midfielder was asked about his international team-mate by his manager and believes that the former Olympiakos man has the tools necessary to succeed at Goodison Park
Allen counting on Liverpool to bounce back against Manchester City
The Wales international is looking forward to his Anfield debut against Roberto Mancini's men and is hoping for a good result after an opening day defeat
Lampard hails 'brilliant' Hazard impact
The England international midfielder scored in Chelsea's first game of the season but was quick to praise the Belgian youngster after his impressive league debut for the club
Manchester City striker Aguero set for MRI after being stretchered off against Southampton
The Argentine was withdrawn early in the champions' season opener following a tackle by Saints' Nathaniel Clyne but his injury is said to look better than was initially feared
'Why would I leave after a year?' - Adam wants Liverpool stay
The 26-year-old has been linked to Fulham in a swap for Clint Dempsey but insists that he wants to remain at Anfield for several seasons after arriving just 12 months ago
Wigan 0-2 Chelsea: Ivanovic & Lampard ease Blues to victory as Hazard impresses on Premier League debut
Roberto Di Matteo's side claimed all three points in their opening game of the 2012-13 campaign with two goals in the first seven minutes still unchallenged by full-time
Newcastle boss Pardew prepared for Tiote and Cabaye bids
The pair were key to the Magpies' success last season as they narrowly missed out on a Champions League spot and the 51-year-old says that replacements would be bought if need be
Liverpool must keep Skrtel and Agger - Carragher
The veteran Reds defender wants the defensive duo to remain at Anfield amid reported interest in both players from several clubs, with Manchester City eyeing the Dane
Manchester United veteran Giggs hails mouth-watering Van Persie capture
The long-serving midfielder believes that the whole club will be energised by the €30.5 million acquisition of the 29-year-old Dutchman from Premier League rivals Arsenal
Hart: Manchester City need at least one trophy every year, otherwise we have failed
The goalkeeper is expecting his side to perform better in the Champions League this season, and also expects cross-town rivals Manchester United to bounce back strongly
Borini: Balotelli told me to join Liverpool because they have the most exciting fans
The new Reds signing spoke with the controversial Italian during Euro 2012 and said that as soon as he heard of Brendan Rodgers' interest, he knew he wanted to move to Anfield
Milner expects Balotelli and Tevez to stay at Manchester City
The hard-working midfielder believes that the explosive Italian and combustible Argentine will be hungry to fire Roberto Mancini's side towards more silverware this season
McEachran looking for loan move to kick-start Chelsea career
The talented 19-year-old midfielder has been frustrated after failing to win a place in Roberto Di Matteo's side, and sees a loan move as the perfect way of impressing the Italian
Mirallas joins Everton on four-year deal from Olympiakos
The Toffees have announced the signing of the 24-year-old Belgium international who scored 20 goals in 25 appearances for the Greek side last season
Show you want me and I'll come back: Mourinho issues come and get me plea Premier League clubs
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER PUBLISHED: 12:10 GMT, 20 August 2012 | UPDATED: 12:10 GMT, 20 August 2012
Jose Mourinho has challenged Barclays Premier League clubs to show they really want him after reiterating his desire to come back to England.The self-styled 'Special One', who took the Premier League by storm during his three years as Chelsea boss, is constantly being linked with a return.Mourinho is the favourite to succeed both Sir Alex Ferguson and Roberto Mancini as manager of Manchester United and Manchester City, respectively.
Return: Jose Mourinho wants to manage in England again
The Real Madrid boss is also always among the leading candidates whenever the Chelsea job becomes vacant, despite the acrimonious nature of his sacking.Asked if a return to Stamford Bridge was possible, Mourinho told BBC Radio Five Live: 'I will go where people really want me and, when that moment arrives, they show me they really want me.'But I have to repeat always this: I am at Real Madrid. I like very much to be [there].'
Which door will open? Mourinho is favorite to be the manager of both Manchester United and Manchester City
He added: 'I want one day to be back in English football, yes. I always said that.'Mourinho, widely regarded as one of the greatest managers of all time, also revealed his success was partly down to his ability to immerse himself in a club in the same manner as a supporter.'When I go to a club, I wear the shirt, I feel the shirt like it's my first one or my last one," he said.'I feel the fans as part of myself. I create eternal links with fans.'I go to play against Chelsea and I feel (it), I go to Italy and I feel (it).
Blue is the colour: Mourinho won two titles with Chelsea
'I work for the clubs, I work for the people that trust me, and of course the owners and the directors, but the clubs are the fans.'For me, it's one of my qualities. I become immediately one of them and I feel that I am one of them with a privileged position to fight for the club and to try to bring to all of them happiness.'
Unprofessional, lazy, late and now signing for Barcelona! Song checks in at Spanish giants after Arsenal wave goodbye
By SAMI MOKBEL PUBLISHED: 08:37 GMT, 20 August 2012 | UPDATED: 14:04 GMT, 20 August 2012
Alex Song has touched down in Barcelona to complete his £15million move after it emerged that Arsenal are happy to let him go.Song was pictured at the Nou Camp on Monday morning ahead of his medical, which he passed without any problems.Doctor Ricard Pruna said: 'He has a very low body fat percentage and very good muscle quality. All the tests have come out satisfactorily and he is available to the coach.'Arsene Wenger sanctioned the sale of after becoming infuriated by the midfielder's lack of commitment in pre-season.
Welcome: Alex Song poses for the photographers after arriving at the Nou Camp on Monday
Thumbs up: Song was happy to call time on his Arsenal career once Barcelona came calling
And it has emerged that the Cameroon midfielder’s exit has been in the offing for months after a breakdown in the relationship between player and club over an improved contract.As Sportsmail revealed last Thursday, Song will complete a switch on Monday — sealing the departure of a second key Arsenal player in less than a week.
But unlike the £24million sale of Robin van Persie, who was in the final year of his contract, to Manchester United, the Gunners were under no pressure to offload Song, who had three seasons left on his £55,000-per-week deal.Club sources claim Song’s levels of professionalism had dropped significantly in recent months and Wenger decided enough was enough earlier this summer.
Switch: Song will have to fight for a place in Barcelona's team of superstars
Off you go: Arsenal won't be sad to see the back of Song after his poor attitude
THE SONG SHEET
In seven seasons for Arsenal he made 138 appearances — 121 starts — with 122 in the past four seasons.
Pinpoint passing — Made 7,312 passes and 85.46% found target. PL average last season was 79.65%. In own half, it was 91.25% Tough tackling — Attempted 402 tackles and won 309 or 77%. In 50-50 battles, won 831 of 1,596.
Creative core — 120 scoring chances and in a more advanced role last season had 11 goal assists.
Sources also say Song regularly arrived late for training, took a half-hearted approach in sessions and did not follow instructions from the management staff.Having established himself as arguably the club’s second-most influential player behind Van Persie, Song felt he was entitled to an improved contract and tried to open talks over a pay rise.He will earn around £70,000 a week at Barcelona.It is understood Song’s advisers tried to initiate contact over a new contract in January.
However, sources close to Song insist Arsenal delayed attempts by the 24-year-old to negotiate, leaving the player disillusioned.
Song is said to have been desperate to commit his long-term future to the club, but felt his salary should have been on a par with other top earners. Ultimately, Arsenal felt offering Song fresh terms was not a priority.
Chilled out: Arsenal were unhappy with Alex Song's efforts in training this summer
SCRATCHING THE SURFACE ... boss Rodgers has big job
By ALAN SHEARER
Last Updated: 20th August 2012
THE Kop might not want to hear it but the best their club can hope for this year is fourth place.
And that’s a long shot too. They are in a five-way battle to bring Champions League football back to Anfield.
It’s 22 years since the Reds last lifted the title and I just don’t see that drought ending this year. Or next. They are not just going to become contenders again overnight.
Their target must be getting back in the top four and, sorry Scousers, but three of those spots are taken.
The two Manchester clubs and Chelsea will occupy them come May. That leaves Arsenal, Spurs, Newcastle, Liverpool and maybe even Everton to claim the last one.
The Reds have a chance but they’ll have to improve on a terrible opening-day performance at West Brom.
I’ll be honest, I was disappointed to see Kenny go, I have an unbelievable amount of respect for him, I felt he was doing a good job — he won one trophy and came really close to picking up another.
But the decision was taken to get rid of him and he wouldn’t want people feeling sorry for him.
Brendan Rodgers deserved the chance. I’ve met him a couple of times at Match of the Day and I’ve been really impressed by him.
And the job he did at Swansea was first class, he’s had a very encouraging season in the Premier League. I don’t think it’s too soon for him but there’s no doubt it’s a huge job for him.
They don’t come much bigger than Liverpool. But I think the owners know their football and will give him time to get it right.
He may well need it, looking at the way they played against the Baggies.
His defence were all over the place.Daniel Agger and Martin Skrtel have been top defenders but both had nightmares. Liverpool didn’t score enough last term so when you defend like that, you’ll have no chance.
I’m a great fan of Luis Suarez as a footballer but he didn’t score enough last season. And new signing Fabio Borini will be under pressure to deliver because it’s clear Rodgers doesn’t fancy Andy Carroll.
It’s a real shame how it’s worked out for my fellow Geordie and I’d love to see him back at St James’ Park before the deadline.
But he’s not the only big-money buy who needs to pull their socks up.
Stewart Downing is an England international and he has to do better than he did last year.
You could say the same about Jordan Henderson. I saw him up in the North East and I’m a fan of his. As with Downing, he didn’t set the fee but it seems like it weighed heavily on him.
Rodgers has brought in Borini and Joe Allen. They’ll do well but it will take more than that to get the Manchester clubs looking over their shoulders.
As expected, there is media silence at TNP on this match and the fingers of sports editors went numb.
Everton 1 Manchester United 0: Fellaini's head start - Everton's top gun upstages RVP to shock United
By IAN LADYMAN PUBLISHED: 20:52 GMT, 20 August 2012 | UPDATED: 23:19 GMT, 20 August 2012
Robin van Persie says he came to Manchester United to win trophies. On Monday night an enthralling performance from Everton — and in particular their powerful forward Marouane Fellaini — ensured the Holland striker will have to wait a week longer to win his first game.First and foremost, Van Persie will hope he is in the team for United’s home game against Fulham. Last night the £24million signing from Arsenal spent 68 minutes on the bench. Having seen Wayne Rooney labour through one of his worst performances in a United shirt, he may have cause to wonder why.
By the time Van Persie did come on, United were lucky to be only one goal down. As they pushed for an equaliser in the closing moments, their new signing found himself taking corners and throw-ins. It was that kind of night.
Jump for joy: Marouane Fellaini gets up to head the ball past United keeper David De Gea
Man Utd: De Gea, Valencia, Carrick, Vidic, Evra, Nani (Young 78), Cleverley (Anderson 85), Scholes, Kagawa, Rooney,Welbeck (van Persie 68) Subs not used: Lindegaard, Da Silva, Berbatov, Wootton Booked: Nani, Scholes.
Att: 38,415
Ref: Andre Marriner (W Midlands)
At full time, Goodison Park bounced and shook. Everton had played some football evocative of glorious years gone by and as they resisted United’s late surge to edge over the line to a thoroughly deserved victory their fans celebrated a terrific start to their season.Former United captain Gary Neville suggested rather impishly afterwards that Everton may find themselves fending off interest in the marauding Fellaini. What he probably doesn’t know is that United, along with many other English clubs, were alerted to him before Everton bought him from Standard Liege in 2008.
On Monday the 24-year-old was almost unplayable. Clearly fancying his chances against a United back four that featured Michael Carrick at centre half, a decision forced on Sir Alex Ferguson by injury, and Antonio Valencia at right-back — that one wasn’t — Fellaini imposed himself all night.The Belgian is much more than a battering ram. If he offered only a physical threat he wouldn’t play much of his football in such deep positions.His presence in the United penalty area was undeniably difficult to deal with, though, and his winning goal in 57th minute was a thing of beauty.
And we're off: Fellaini sprints away to celebrate after scoring for Everton
Fan-tastic: Marouane Fellaini celebrates his goal with Nikica Jelavic in front of the Everton supporters
IN FOCUS:
Kevin Mirallas: Everton's £6million signing was given a thunderous reception when he was presented before kick-off. Shame the Belgium striker’s deal was completed too late for him to feature.
Steve Clarke: The home fans loved him for beating Liverpool with West Brom on the first day. They might change their view if he did his homework well at Goodison ahead of Everton’s trip to the Hawthorns.
Sir Alex Ferguson: The old fire is still burning strong. It took just 18 minutes for the 70-year-old to give the fourth official a flea in his ear after Marouane Fellaini’s rough treatment of David De Gea.
Set-pieces are always useful to Everton owing to the quality of Leighton Baines’ delivery. And when the England left-back struck a corner into the area, Fellaini climbed above Carrick to power a header into the bottom corner.Defensive coaches will ask why Carrick was marking Everton’s most dangerous aerial threat and also wonder why Danny Welbeck had vacated his position on the post.Nevertheless it would be churlish to take anything away from Fellaini’s goal. It was one of which the watching Duncan Ferguson would have been proud.United could not complain about being behind. They had enjoyed a reasonable amount of possession throughout but much of it had been in the wrong areas. Everton, when in possession, were far more purposeful and forthright.
On the ball: Robin van Persie warmed up before taking his place on the Manchester United bench
Game for a laugh: Van Persie shares a joke with new team-mate Anderson as he watches the first half
Struggle: Robin van Persie could not make his mark on the game
The only way is up: It was a disappointing start to his Manchester United career for Robin van Persie
Everton should have been ahead by half-time and that they weren’t was largely down to the contribution of United goalkeeper David de Gea. This time last year the Spaniard was reflecting on a debut that had seen him concede a goal from West Brom’s Shane Long that your average Sunday League player would have stopped with an a outstretched foot. For a while, it seemed to have set the tone of his time at Old Trafford.
No holding back: Everton left-back Leighton Baines and United winger Nani get stuck in
No fear: Manchester United goalkeeper David De Gea clears under pressure
Welcome to the Premier League: Shinji Kagawa was named in the Manchester United starting XI
Here, though, De Gea was inspired. Fellaini maybe should have scored early on after bullying Valencia and Carrick out of the way before hitting the outside of the post but from then on it was great goalkeeping, rather than below-par finishing, that kept United in the game.Ferguson’s team did have some chances. Tim Howard saved from a Rooney free-kick and then saw the same player turn on a Welbeck cross only to shoot straight at him. Nani, meanwhile, worried Howard from distance while Welbeck was denied by successive blocks from the excellent Phil Jagielka.
Worth a try: Leon Osman has a go as United skipper Nemanja Vidic keeps a close eye on him
Another new recruit: Kevin Mirallas is introduced to the Everton supporters before the kick-off
In all honesty, though, the significant action took place at the other end of the field. De Gea blocked an angled shot from Nikica Jelavic after neat and incisive Everton approach play, tipped a Stephen Pienaar header over from the resulting corner and then dived to his left to turn a low shot from Everton’s talented South African past the post.However, saves from Leon Osman and Baines as half-time neared will be long remembered. On both occasions, De Gea used one hand — an unorthodox technique — to make the save as Osman turned on to a Fellaini knockdown to volley towards the top corner and then Baines whipped in a free-kick that took a deflection from the shoulder of Valencia.
Going it alone: Marouane Fellaini hit the post from a tight angle early in the first half
Hard to handle: Everton striker Nikica Jelavic tries to get away from Patrice Evra (left) and Tom Cleverley
It had been a performance of near perfection from De Gea and one wondered during the interval whether United would gather themselves and re-emerge ready to roll. That didn’t turn out to be the case, though. The crowd were still settling back in their seats when Osman turned on to yet another Fellaini assist to crash a shot against the underside of the bar.Soon after the goal arrived and that was the prompt for Ferguson to introduce Van Persie. It was asking a lot for the 29-year-old to turn a game round all on his own and it was no surprise that he couldn’t manage it.
Experience: Veteran midfielder Paul Scholes tries to get Manchester United going
Star man: Marouane Fellaini caused Manchester United plenty of problems
There was one neat nutmeg to set up a chance for Welbeck only for Howard to smother at the near post. In another moment of danger for Everton, Jagielka cleared a Tom Cleverley shot off the line.Overall, United deserved what they got while Everton will head into next week’s game at Aston Villa with something to build on. As for Van Persie, this is not what the all the fuss was supposed to be about.
Arsenal hit Sahin snag: Wenger's seven-year pursuit for Real star stalls
By MATT BARLOW PUBLISHED: 22:26 GMT, 20 August 2012 | UPDATED: 22:26 GMT, 20 August 2012
Arsene Wenger's seven-year transfer pursuit of Nuri Sahin was halted as talks to bring the Real Madrid midfielder to Arsenal on loan hit a sticking point.Wenger wants to replace Alex Song by signing Sahin, 23, on a one-year loan but negotiations have become locked on the terms of an option to buy him permanently next year.Liverpool are also interested but the lure of Champions League football was still expected to tip the balance in Arsenal’s favour.
Arsenal bound? Nuri Sahin's move to The Emirates has stalled
Sahin, monitored by Wenger since starring in the Turkey team who won the European Under 17 title in 2005, is paid the equivalent of £120,000 a week in Spain, which would make him the highest paid player at the Emirates.
Song, the man he is intended to replace, was paid £55,000 a week and moved to Barcelona because the club refused to renegotiate his terms.There is better news for Wenger over the fitness of gifted England midfielder Jack Wilshere. Out for more than a year, his rehabilitation is ahead of schedule and club medics feel he could be back in late October.
EXCLUSIVE: City could lose Silva as contract talks stutter over £200,000 a week wage demands
By IAN LADYMAN PUBLISHED: 21:57 GMT, 20 August 2012 | UPDATED: 21:57 GMT, 20 August 2012
Manchester City's contract talks with David Silva have faltered because of the Spanish winger's contract demands.Silva has two years to run on the £130,000-a-week deal he signed when he moved to the Etihad two summers ago.
Stuttering: David Silva's new contract talks have faltered due to his high wage demands
The World Cup and European Championship winner wants to be paid more than £200,000 a week and parity with the club's top earners Yaya Toure and Carlos Tevez. But City have refused to go that far as they seek to streamline the club ahead of the implementation of UEFA's Financial Fair Play rules. City want to tie Silva down to a new long-term deal as he has been one of manager Roberto Mancini's most important players.
The playmaker dazzled last season for Manchester City and helped Spain to the European Championship trophy this summer
It is understood club officials are prepared to go against their usual policy of not negotiating contracts during the season to try to reach an agreement with him.
Meanwhile, City are set for some bad news from Rome today as transfer target Daniele De Rossi is due to hold a press conference. City fear De Rossi will reveal his intentions to stay at Roma and reject the Premier League champions' advances.More positively, City have bid £5million for Swansea winger Scott Sinclair and the deal is expected to be completed in the coming days.
Next in? Daniele De Rossi could join Manchester City from Roma for £30million
Charged! Newcastle boss Pardew faces FA rap after shoving assistant ref
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER PUBLISHED: 15:38 GMT, 20 August 2012 | UPDATED: 16:22 GMT, 20 August 2012
Newcastle manager Alan Pardew has been charged with misconduct by the Football Association for pushing an assistant referee.Pardew shoved Peter Kirkup during his side's Barclays Premier League win over Tottenham on Saturday.
The Magpies boss apologised unreservedly after the match but it has not prevented the FA acting and he now has until 4pm on Thursday to respond to the charge.
Flashpoint: Newcastle manager Alan Pardew pushes referee's assistant Stuart Burt, but the incident was a far cry from Paulo di Canio's infamous shove on referee Paul Alcock
Banished: Pardew looks on from the stands
Given Pardew's comments after the match, it seems unlikely he will contest it.He said: 'It was ridiculous and I apologised publicly. He was right in front of me and I thought the ball was out and I shoved him.'I went to see him and told him it was stupid and I don't know what I was thinking.'Pardew reacted angrily having thought the official had missed a throw-in for his side moments before Spurs shot narrowly wide.The incident was missed by referee Martin Atkinson but it was immediately brought to his attention by fourth official Lee Mason. Pardew was ordered to watch the final 20 minutes of the match at Sports Direct Arena from the stands.
Why always them? City kit manager revealed as man behind players' messages on shirts
By JOHN EDWARDS and CHRIS WHEELER PUBLISHED: 21:30 GMT, 20 August 2012 | UPDATED: 22:56 GMT, 20 August 2012
Kit manager Les Chapman can be revealed as the man behind a new trend for Manchester City's stars who want to send messages round the world.
Both Carlos Tevez and Samir Nasri celebrated scoring in Sunday's 3-2 win over Southampton at the Etihad Stadium by lifting their shirts to reveal a printed slogan on their official Umbro under-armour. Nasri revealed a T-shirt with Muslim greeting Eid Mubarak written on it, while Tevez showed the latest reference to his native Buenos Aires.
Revealed: Kit manager Les Chapman has been providing players with messages on their under shirts
The latest: Samir Nasri bore this message after he scored the winner against Southampton on Sunday
They follow in the wake of Mario Balotelli, who famously posed the question: 'Why always me?' on his City T-shirt.
The printing - using the equipment normally kept by Chapman and his team for putting names on the back of shirts - marks a move on from the previous practice of scribbling slogans for the cameras with a felt-tip pen.
And while City are indulging their stars at the moment that might change if it brings any more bookings - as happened to Nasri on Sunday - with the fear of that leading to suspensions.
Him too: Carlos Tevez got in on it against Chelsea in the Community Shield
Nasri was booked and Tevez wasn't because the Frenchman pulled the shirt over his chin, but Tevez didn't. New FIFA guidelines state that any player 'removing his shirt or covering his head with it' must be cautioned and referee Howard Webb duly followed the new directive on goal celebrations.
Tevez, in particular, has form in the T-shirt tidings stakes and was sending out birthday wishes to folk back home in Argentina during his Manchester United days. They were scribbled in his own hand, as was the Feliz Cumple Mami (Happy Birthday Mum) after his solo goal against Chelsea at The Etihad last season.
City now appear to be indulging him after allowing the use of Chapman and his printing team for neatly arranged block capitals. For now they are, anyway, though all that could change, if the authorities get shirty with the habit and force a rethink by club bosses.
And who can forget... Mario Balotelli revealed the 'Why Always Me?' shirt in City's 6-1 victory over United last season
And who can forget... Mario Balotelli revealed the 'Why Always Me?' shirt in City's 6-1 victory over United last season
Buttner undergoes medical ahead of his £4m switch to Manchester United
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER PUBLISHED: 12:58 GMT, 20 August 2012 | UPDATED: 13:17 GMT, 20 August 2012
Alexander Buttner has completed his medical ahead of sealing his £3.9million switch to Manchester United from Vitesse Arnhem.The 23-year-old Dutchman left-back arrived at Bridgewater Hospital in Manchester at Monday lunchtime. Unless there are any major hiccups, he will now sign a five-year contract with the Barclays Premier League giants.
On his way: Alexander Buttner arrives for his Manchester United medical
Close shave: Buttner shows off his tight trim as he arrives for his tests
‘If you had told me one week ago that I would be training with and playing for the same team as Robin van Persie, I would have sent you to a mental home!,' Buttner said.'This is crazy stuff, beyond all my dreams. I am looking forward to this challenge so much. I am so proud and so glad that it has worked out like this.‘I’m so glad that it has happened and everything has turned out like this. This is really a dream come true.’
Buttner has been regularly linked with a move to England this summer and had looked poised to join Southampton with Vitesse announcing in July they had agreed a deal with the Barclays Premier League newcomers, but that switch fell through.Buttner, who can also operate at right-back, came through the youth system at Vitesse.The Doetinchem-born player made 107 appearances for the Dutch club and had been named in Holland's provisional 36-man squad for Euro 2012, although did not eventually go to the finals.
Dream move: Alexander Buttner is set to join Manchester United
PRIZE GUY ... Alex Song wants to end his long wait for silverware at Barcelona
ALEX SONG last night taunted Arsenal after completing his £15million switch to Barcelona by declaring: I’ve come here to win EVERYTHING.
Just days after Robin van Persie quit for Manchester United in search of silverware, the Cameroon midfielder, 24, became the latest Arsenal ace to leave.
Song said: “I’m so happy to be here because everyone knows Barcelona are the best team in the world. I’m feeling like a young boy.
“To be part of this team is something I wanted to achieve when I was young.
“I always tried to think ‘I will play for Barcelona’ and now I have the opportunity to be here and play with the best players in the world — Messi, Xavi, Iniesta, Fabregas.”
RVP left the Emirates after refusing to sign a new deal and publicly condemned boss Arsene Wenger’s long-term strategy and signings. Last season, Wenger continually lavished praise on the midfield hardman.
Song’s words will only fuel claims that Arsenal’s failure to sign big names leads to an exodus of stars hungry to win trophies and not be also-runs. Song added: “Barcelona are the best team in the world because they have all the best players.
“It’s very hard to fight to get the space to play.
“I expect the team to continue winning because they are a winning team — they’ve won everything.
“I hope this year we will win everything. I will just try to do my job to give my best in training and when the boss gives me a chance to play I will do it.
“Today is a good day for me and my family.”
Song kipped at the home of close pal and former Gunners skipper Cesc Fabregas on Sunday night.
He said: “Cesc is a very good friend and will help me a lot to come into the team. It’s good for me to have a guy like him.”
George Soros takes 7.85pc stake in Manchester United
Billionaire George Soros has taken a 7.85pc stake in Manchester United, betting on the UK football team to score in the financial markets as well as on the pitch.
George Soros has taken a 7.85pc in Manchester United. Photo: GETTY
By Matthew Sparkes
11:03PM BST 20 Aug 2012
News of the investment, made via Soros Fund Management, was released in an SEC filing after the closing bell rang on Wall Street today. The 82-year-old now owns 3,114,588 shares in the team but carries almost no voting power and will receive no dividend, thanks to the structure of the club's flotation.
Manchester United floated 16.7m shares in New York at $14 each on August 10, giving it a total valuation of $2.3bn and making it the most valuable team in the world. Its main contender for the title, Real Madrid, is worth just $1.88bn.
But since then the club has performed badly, losing almost a dollar to close today at just $13.06.
Manchester United had originally planned to float in the Far East last year, where it enjoys a large fanbase, but plans were shelved. The subsequent New York flotation was also delayed last month when turbulent conditions caused by the eurozone debt crisis spooked the club.
When it eventually launched the Financial Times reported that an underwriter for the deal, Jefferies Group, had bought shares itself to prevent the stock falling below its listing price. The Glazer family remain the club’s majority shareholder with an 58pc stake through their holding company Red Football.
The club is not the only company that has been on a downward trajectory which George Soros has pinned his fortune to. Last week it was revealed that he had spent around $10.6m buying 341,000 shares in Facebook during the second quarter. Facebook shares have lost more than 50pc of their value since their flotation, falling from $38 to as low as $18.80 today.
Last night, Peter Thiel, the founder of PayPal, was said to have sold most of his holding in Facebook worth about $400m.
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson: We didn't use Van Persie enough
The veteran manager believes his side played well on the night, but didn't do enough to create any clear cut chances, and praised Fellaini's match winning performance
Everton will be a force to be reckoned with this season, warns Moyes after Manchester United win
Manager says Goodison Park is a difficult place to get a victory and feels his team will continue to improve on last season's seventh place finish following an impressive win
Oxlade-Chamberlain: Cazorla is a massive asset for Arsenal
The young England international has been very impressed by the new summer signing at the Emirates during his debut despite his side's draw against Sunderland in their opening game
'It is nigh on impossible to mark him' - Everton team-mates hail Fellaini after Manchester United win
Phil Jagielka was delighted with his side's "fantastic" win and is thrilled to start the season in fine style, while Phil Neville also praised the Toffees goalscorer
Moussa Konate hoping for a move to the Premier League
The Senegal international has been linked to a host of top flight clubs after an impressive display at the 2012 Olympic Games, and admits he has his agent working on a transfer
Owen denies reports linking him with a move to Everton
The free agent, who was recently released by the Red Devils, has been quick to play down reports connecting him with a move to the club he supported as a boy
Everton 1-0 Manchester United: Rampant Fellaini ruins Kagawa & Van Persie debuts
An impressive performance from David Moyes' men saw them notch a win in their opening Premier League game with the Dutchman tasting defeat on his first appearance
Kompany praises Manchester City team-mates' character in hard-fought victory over Southampton
The 26-year-old believes that the fight shown to overcome the newly promoted side mirrored that of the determination they showed to claim the Premier League title last season
Bertrand targeting regular spot at Chelsea to prove England credentials
The 23-year-old was delighted to make his Three Lions debut in the friendly against Italy and is aiming to play more games for the Blues this season in order to impress the boss
Official: Barcelona complete signing of Alex Song from Arsenal
The Cameroon international makes official his £15 million move to Camp Nou, penning a five-year contract to provide competition for the likes of Sergio Busquets
Manchester City fail in £31m pursuit of Roma midfielder De Rossi
The Giallorossi favourite will announce at a press conference on Tuesday that he has decided to remain at his club, leaving Roberto Mancini frustrated once again
Chelsea new-boy Hazard used to being kicked following Premier League debut
The Belgium international was the most fouled player in his side's 2-0 victory at the weekend but still managed to provide the assist and win the penalty for both goals
