║║║║║ Barclays Premier League Season 2012-13 ║║║║║

[General Veers]

Hogan, Hughes, Souness, Owen! Stoke striker shows off spectacular Movember effort

By MATT FORTUNE PUBLISHED: 19:46 GMT, 9 November 2012 | UPDATED: 19:46 GMT, 9 November 2012

Real men can grow a moustache. From Hulk Hogan to the suave and sophisticated Tom Selleck, a thick wedge of hair above a man's top lip is a sign of power, though probably not style. And now 'Movember' gives the rest of us a chance to try it for one month only. If we look ridiculous, so what? Charity is the winner. So step forward Michael Owen, the Stoke City striker who's managed to become the envy of wispy facial-haired men everywhere with a spectacular ode to the probably never fashionable 'handlebar' moustache.

Handle it: Michael Owen showed off his brilliant Movember effort on Twitter

The Movember movement has really gained mo-mentum in recent years and a number of celebs have jumped on board. Even Theo Walcott's giving it a go this year. Owen's fantashtic effort puts him among some illustrious sporting company, including cricketer Merv Hughes, Olympic legend Mark Spitz, and Liverpool great Graeme Souness. So here, Sportsmail pays tribute to the 'real men' of the sporting world... and Joey Barton.

Known for it: Merv Hughes, the Australian cricketer was famous for his tash

Trend setter: David Beckham

Making his Mark: Lawrenson

Legend: Hulk Hogan had one of the most famous moustaches in showbiz

Model moustache: Graeme Souness followed the trend of the 80s with his

Iconic: Mark Spitz poses with the seven gold medals he won at Munich

A Ok: Rollie Fingers gave his a continental twirl for added style

But not all who try can pull it off, can they Joey?

Wispy: Joey Barton did his bit for the Movember charity last year
​

 

[THE_CHANSTER]

Mark Hughes, it's time to go...

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p>@<a href="https://twitter.com/tonyfernandes">tonyfernandes</a> Help Us Tony ?? Do you supply parachutes ?? <a href="https://twitter.com/search/%23QPR">#QPR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/search/%23HughesOut">#HughesOut</a> <a href="http://t.co/yrlkK57k" title="http://twitter.com/robertdriver/status/267326895668985856/photo/1">twitter.com/robertdriver/s…</a></p>&mdash; Robert Driver (@robertdriver) <a href="https://twitter.com/robertdriver/status/267326895668985856" data-datetime="2012-11-10T18:04:33+00:00">November 10, 2012</a></blockquote>
<script src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[THE_CHANSTER]

Tony Fernandes...are you listening? Sack Mark Hughes before its too late...

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p>@<a href="https://twitter.com/tonyfernandes">tonyfernandes</a> Help Us Tony ?? Do you supply parachutes ?? <a href="https://twitter.com/search/%23QPR">#QPR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/search/%23HughesOut">#HughesOut</a> <a href="http://t.co/yrlkK57k" title="http://twitter.com/robertdriver/status/267326895668985856/photo/1">twitter.com/robertdriver/s…</a></p>&mdash; Robert Driver (@robertdriver) <a href="https://twitter.com/robertdriver/status/267326895668985856" data-datetime="2012-11-10T18:04:33+00:00">November 10, 2012</a></blockquote>
<script src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[General Veers]

Di Matteo: Chelsea missed Terry when he went off
The Blues' manager admits his side suffered once the captain had to be removed after sustaining a knee injury as the European champions threw away a lead to draw with Liverpool

Rodgers delighted with Liverpool's second-half resurgence at Chelsea
The Anfield boss was proud of his side's performance after the break and insists the players deserve all the credit for the result despite a pivotal change in formation

Manchester City made it difficult for Tottenham to play, Villas-Boas admits
The Portuguese manager praised Roberto Mancini's team, admitting that their opponents' high defensive line limited the space and time on the ball that they were allowed

Dzeko: My goals are my only message to Mancini
The striker scored from the bench yet again to secure three points for Premier League champions but would not be drawn into complaining about a lack of starting opportunities

Chelsea captain Terry stretchered off after collision with Suarez
The Blues centre-back is forced out of the game towards the end of the first half with suspected knee ligament damage, having earlier given his side the lead with a header

Manchester City escape like champions as winning will saves Mancini again
The Premier League title holders needed a late winner from Edin Dzeko to keep up the chase on their rivals after a disjointed performance highlighted the Italian's flawed system

Stam: Sir Alex Ferguson asked me to leave Manchester United at a petrol station
The former defender claims that the Old Trafford manager met him after a spat over the Dutchman's autobiography to confirm his sale to Lazio at an unusual location

Arsenal target Taarabt is better off at QPR, claims Mark Hughes
The 49-year-old manager has stated Arsene Wenger should forget about trying to sign his Moroccan starlet, insisting the gifted 23-year-old is happy to continue at Loftus Road

'Wilshere is the player every team is looking for' - Hodgson delighted at midfielder's England return
The national boss praises the Arsenal youngster after naming him in his squad for the friendly against Sweden next Wednesday, suggesting that he is key to the team's progression

'You can call me what you want but I will never be a super-sub' - Dzeko aims for more games
The £27m Bosnian striker is asking to be given more playing time at Manchester City, stating that his goalscoring record backs up his demands for more minutes on the pitch

'It's a terrible waste for him to be there' - Coupet urges Lloris to leave Tottenham
The former France goalkeeper has called on his compatriot to move away from White Hart Lane despite only joining in the summer, suggesting the English club are wasting his talents

Mata: Oscar & Hazard have helped Chelsea's style of play
The Spanish midfielder has spoken of his delight at playing an attractive style alongside the team's new recruits, stating that playing entertaining football is the best way to win

Ashley Cole might say yes to PSG move, claims former Arsenal midfielder Robert Pires
The Frenchman believes Chelsea's left-back is ready to leave the European champions and will be hugely tempted by overtures from the Ligue 1 club as he aims to resolve his future

Mancini brands Stramaccioni a 'revelation' for Inter
The Manchester City manager has congratulated his Nerazzurri counterpart after the Serie A side broke the previous club record for consecutive away victories this week

Inter boss Stramaccioni coy on January move for Balotelli
The Italian boss refused to reveal whether he would be launching a January raid for the Manchester City striker, who has struggled to hold down a place in Roberto Mancini's side

'You don't win World Cups on a PlayStation' - Tevez slams Gary Neville over juggling TV punditry & England role
The Argentine striker has criticised his former Manchester United team-mate's approach to coaching the national side, saying he must decide if his TV work is more important

Di Matteo slams Premier League's refusal to postpone Sunderland game ahead of Chelsea's Club World Cup campaign
The Italian claims his players will be strained by the fixture list and believes the decision poses a 'big injury risk' to his squad ahead of their trip to Japan in December

Bale is one of the best wingers in the world, claims Manchester City full-back Zabaleta
The 27-year-old insists he is relishing the prospect of facing the Welshman on Sunday, but admits the defending champions should be wary of Tottenham's counter-attacking threat

Trademark Manchester United comeback and Chicharito salvo a fitting tribute to 26 years of Sir Alex Ferguson
The Red Devils once again pulled themselves back from the brink of defeat at Villa Park with characteristic grit and determination, spearheaded by the predatory Mexican

Liverpool forward Suarez: I'm no diver!
The Anfield club’s Uruguayan striker has acquired a reputation for cheating and bad behaviour during his time on Merseyside, but he insists that the tag is unjustified

Manchester City and Mancini desperate to rediscover their Silva sparkle
The Spanish playmaker has been out of Premier League action since early October but could be set to make a much-needed return in Sunday's crunch match against Tottenham

Arsenal buoyed by Giroud progress but Frenchman still lacks Berbatov's swagger
Two strikers bossed the enthralling 3-3 draw at the Emirates, though Gunners' front man could learn from the Cottagers' star and the ruthlessness surrounding his nonchalant penalty

Rooney an injury doubt ahead of England's friendly against Sweden
Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed the striker will be assessed on Sunday after sustaining an ankle injury, while Theo Walcott is also a doubt for Wednesday's tie

Manchester City assistant boss Platt fears 'potent' Defoe
Roberto Mancini's right-hand man has pinpointed the in-form striker as Tottenham's primary threat ahead of the sides' meeting at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday afternoon

'When you score a hat trick you pick yourself' - Sir Alex Ferguson on Chicharito
The Manchester United boss has promised the Mexican striker a start against Norwich after he scored twice and created a third goal during Saturday's win over Aston Villa

Sunderland distance themselves from McClean poppy snub
Shirts embroidered with the symbol have been commissioned to mark Remembrance Sunday, but the Derry-born winger chose not to wear one during his side's clash with Everton

Lambert 'absolutely gutted' after Manchester United comeback win
The Villans forged a two-goal lead against Sir Alex Ferguson's men only to slip to a 3-2 defeat as half-time substitute Chicharito propelled his side to victory

Hernandez dismisses 'super sub' tag after inspiring Manchester United comeback
The striker was introduced by Sir Alex Ferguson at half-time and was at the heart of all three of his side's goals as the Red Devils sealed a 3-2 win over Aston Villa

Asprilla: Newcastle have contacted me over return
The Colombian, who spent two years at St James' Park as a player, has been in talks with the Tyneside club about taking up a coaching role on Alan Pardew's staff

Favre refuses to rule out move for Marin
The Bundesliga side are reportedly interested in launching a January swoop for the 23-year-old, who has only played 20 minutes of first-team football so far this season

Wenger laments Arsenal's lack of 'urgency' in Fulham draw
The Gunners threw away a two-goal lead to fall behind to Martin Jol's side but missed a late chance to win the game as Mikel Arteta saw his penalty kick saved

Mata hails Di Matteo's 'clever' leadership skills at Chelsea
The Spanish midfielder has pointed to recent comebacks against the likes of Manchester United, Shakhtar Donetsk and Tottenham as proof of the Blues' improved mentality

Defoe eager to atone for last season's Manchester City miss
The striker squandered a glorious chance for Spurs at the Etihad Stadium last season prior to the hosts winning with a last-gasp penalty and hopes to make up for it on Sunday

Debuchy: I was disappointed Lille did not let me go
The Dogues right-back has revealed that he was unhappy with the club's decision to keep him, but stated that he is now fully concentrated on playing for the French outfit

Huddlestone has 'battled his way' back into contention, says Villas-Boas
After a failed medical saw a loan move to Stoke City fall through in the summer, the Portugese has commended the midfielder's desire to impress at White Hart Lane

 

[General Veers]

Sturridge: I could score 20 goals a season for Chelsea if given a chance
The 23-year-old has started just one game this season but is adamant he would have no trouble netting if Roberto Di Matteo gave him a chance as the Blues' central striker

Cech: Suarez deserves credit for not diving
The Chelsea keeper believes the Uruguay international should be commended for staying on his feet as they contested a late one-on-one in Sunday's 1-1 draw with the Reds

Manchester City star Balotelli is going nowhere, claims agent
The Italian forward has no plans of a transfer away from the Etihad despite his current struggle to win a regular place in the first team, according to his representative

Rio Ferdinand cautious over Manchester United future
The centre-back has refused to commit himself to Old Trafford in the long-term with the club expected to attempt to slash his salary with their next contract offer

Chelsea close in on Falcao swoop after opening talks over €60m January move
The Atletico Madrid sensation has told the European champions he wants to join them in the forthcoming window and is already believed to have agreed personal terms

Sunderland midfielder Meyler defends McClean's poppy decision
The Black Cats midfielder has come out in defence of his team-mate's decision not to wear a shirt featuring the design and says the whole situation has been blown out of proportion

Holloway: Zaha is unique and can play at the very top level
The new Crystal Palace boss has hailed the 20-year-old youngster as "utterly refreshing" and believes the attacker will set the game alight if he gets the chance against Sweden

Manchester City are there to be shot at, says Zabaleta
The right-back believes it is natural for clubs to want to beat the reigning champions, and that the team must take it in their stride if they are to defend their title

Jones set for Manchester United return after resuming training
The 20-year-old has not played for the Premier League leaders this season after battling with a knee injury but is in line to make a first-team comeback at the weekend

Deschamps continues war of words with Villas-Boas over Lloris
The France national team coach has responded to comments made by the Spurs boss, as the row surrounding the rotation of the 25-year-old with Brad Friedel escalates

Cesar admits Arsenal talks before joining QPR
The 33 year-old former Brazilian international has revealed that he discussed terms with the Gunners before deciding to sign up to Mark Hughes' "project" in west London

Sturridge and Osman hail Gerrard as he approaches 100 caps for England
The newcomers to the national team praised the Liverpool midfielder, saying that there is no one more deserving of reaching the milestone ahead of the friendly against Sweden

Sturridge aiming to repay Hodgson faith in England friendly
The 23-year-old has been out of favour with club side Chelsea this season but earned a call-up for the clash with Sweden ahead of several other in-form forwards

Osman unsurprised by England call-up
The Everton midfielder has insisted he never gave up hope of representing his country, and recalled the moment when David Moyes notified him during training

Chelsea reveal Terry out for 'weeks' rather than 'months' after MRI scan
The 31-year-old centre-back injured his knee after Liverpool striker Luis Suarez fell awkwardly on him during the two teams' 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge on Sunday

Barton ‘baffled’ by Zaha England call-up
The outspoken midfielder has hit out at the Football Association over their decision to draft the Ivory Coast-born youngster into Roy Hodgson's Three Lions squad

Wenger: International break bad for Arsenal
The Gunners face north London rivals Tottenham upon their return from national team duty and the Frenchman is worried his players may not be at full fitness

Gerrard cleared for England's friendly against Sweden after scan
The Liverpool star is set to make it a century of caps for the Three Lions on Wednesday after shaking off a knee injury picked up during his side's 1-1 draw with Chelsea on Sunday

Manchester City sweating over Nastasic knee knock
The Serbian defender is set for scans on Monday after sustaining the injury during the champions' dramatic comeback win over Tottenham at the Etihad Stadium

Arsenal ready to offload Emmanuel Frimpong in new year
The north London club have not offered academy graduate fresh terms as Wolves step up interest in 20-year-old, who is out of contract at the end of the season

'Hugs to Terry' - Suarez sends best wishes to injured Chelsea captain
The former England international was stretchered off after he collided with the Uruguay striker, who went on to score the equaliser which earned Liverpool a draw at Stamford Bridge

Van Persie withdraws from Netherlands squad
The 29-year-old picked up a thigh injury during Manchester United's 3-2 win over Aston Villa, and will therefore sit out the clash in Amsterdam on Wednesday

Clichy withdraws from France squad with back injury
The left-back has been replaced by Bordeaux defender Beniot Tremoulinas after another withdrawal from internationals by a Premier League-based player

Chinese club Guizhou Renhe confirm Lampard talks
Deputy board chairman Yang Xiayou has told a television station in Beijing that the Super League club has entered into discussions with the England international midfielder

'Fantastic' Suarez scoring goals for fun, says Glen Johnson
The Liverpool defender has highlighted the importance of his team-mate after he bagged the equaliser to secure the Reds a point against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Sunday

Mancini: Manchester City not strong enough to man-mark
The club's zonal system during corners and free kicks has been criticised in recent weeks, but the Italian manager believes his players would crumble under a different set-up

Hodgson keen to blood young England players before World Cup 2014
The Three Lions coach has admitted that some of the youngsters he has called up 'might not be ready today' but says it is important they gain experience with the senior squad

Chelsea draw shows Liverpool are heading in the right direction, says Brad Jones
The Australian goalkeeper was satisfied to take a point away from the contest at Stamford Bridge and believes that a young Reds side is quickly improving in the Premier League

Cech: Premier League title hunt is a three-horse race
The Chelsea goalkeeper expects the Blues, Manchester United and Manchester City to compete for top spot as the trio continue to pull away from the competition below them

'When January comes I have to decide' - Zaha on Crystal Palace future after England call-up
The Ivory Coast-born forward has helped take the Eagles to the top of the Championship, but admits to considering his options after replacing Theo Walcott in the Three Lions squad

Hart hails returning Manchester City stars Maicon and Silva
The Blues goalkeeper lauded the impact made by the duo on their comebacks from injury after the defending champions overturned a one-goal deficit to beat Tottenham on Sunday

Giroud: I never doubted my ability after Arsenal move
The France striker has claimed that he remained confident during his slow start to his career in the Premier League after he bagged two goals in the 3-3 draw against Fulham

Petulant De Rossi gives Roma another excuse to accept big-money Manchester City move
Roberto Mancini has tried long and hard to lure the midfielder to the Premier League champions, and his latest red card could help to bring a quick end to his Giallorossi career

Moyes: Fellaini will command a huge transfer fee
The Toffees manager admits that the Belgium international may decide to leave the club in order to win trophies, but insists potential suitors will have to spend big to recruit him

Wenger refuses to rule Arsenal out of title race
The Gunners boss is not giving up hope of a tilt for the top of the Premier League despite sitting 11 points being Manchester United following Saturday's 3-3 draw with Fulham

Dzeko will never be happy while on Manchester City bench, admits Mancini
The Italian manager insists that he does not expect any player to be satisfied to be among the substitutes but emphasised the importance of having a wealth of options in attack

Villas-Boas and Tottenham must recognise time has caught up with Gallas and Friedel
The pair looked out of place in a shoddy defensive display in the 2-1 loss to Manchester City leaving it time for Spurs to shed them before they cost the club further points

Serious Terry injury would be a massive blow to Chelsea's title ambitions
Roberto Di Matteo will be desperate for positive news from the defender's scan after he picked up what looked to be a bad knee injury in a clash with Luis Suarez on Sunday

Liverpool & Rodgers continue to tread water, whatever the possession stats say
The Merseysiders will cherish the point that extended their unbeaten run to six games but there is no escaping the gap that exists between them and the Premier League's finest

Improving on eighth would be a 'fantastic' season, claims Liverpool boss Rodgers
The Reds manager has attempted to temper expectancy at Anfield this season by claiming that finishing above last season's league position would represent a successful campaign

Zaha handed shock England call-up as Rooney heads list of five withdrawals for Sweden clash
The Crystal Palace youngster has been in fine form so far this season, while Tom Huddlestone and Carl Jenkinson, handed Fifa clearance, are also included in the squad

Mancini: It is important to stay on top
The Manchester City boss was pleased with his side's spirit to come back and beat Tottenham, stressing how imperative it is to keep up with Manchester United and Chelsea

Carragher happy at Liverpool despite bit-part role
The veteran Reds defender believes his side were worthy of a draw at Stamford Bridge after weathering a first-half storm to hit back through Luis Suarez's 73rd-minute equaliser

 

[General Veers]

Zaha: Unless I'm looking at Ronaldo or Messi, I don't think anyone's better than me

By NEIL ASHTON PUBLISHED: 22:30 GMT, 12 November 2012 | UPDATED: 09:34 GMT, 13 November 2012

When Wilfried Zaha reported for England duty for the first time on Monday he was offered a valuable piece of advice. ‘Train like you belong,’ Steven Gerrard whispered in his ear at the team hotel in Manchester, and the young, slightly apprehensive Crystal Palace winger appreciated the support from the England captain. But deep down Zaha already felt he did belong. Deep down he believed he had the ability to be in the company of Roy Hodgson’s senior international players. ‘Unless I’m looking at Ronaldo or Messi, I’d never look at someone else and think he’s better than me,’ he said in his first major newspaper interview.

Seven heaven: Wilfried Zaha is set for a full England debut

'In training the senior players will try and smash me all the time'

This is the kid who spent 10 years perfecting Ronaldinho’s tricks with a tennis ball and he is now desperate to use them against the best possible opposition. Against Sweden on Wednesday night as well as the Premier League’s finest. ‘I think about the Premier League all the time, wondering when I’m going to come up against better defenders,’ he said. ‘I don’t think I’ve come up against a defender when I’ve thought “What can I do to get past this guy?” If it was Ashley Cole I would be working it all out before the game, knowing he would stick tight to me. I’d drift inside and then run at him.

‘Maybe he’ll be able to deal with it, but that’s when I can test him, isn’t it? That’s my time. ‘If someone’s on my back I’ll stand on the ball and put it in a position where the guy behind me can’t see it, then I can roll him whichever way I want. ‘Even when I played against Fabio in the Carling Cup last season at Old Trafford, I was so nervous before the game, but if I wasn’t good enough I wouldn’t have been playing.’ He was in the company of the elite on Monday, training at Carrington with England and road-testing those exhilarating runs that have taken Palace to the top of the Championship.

First glimpse: Zaha takes on Fabio as Palace beat Man United in last year's League Cup quarter-final

Selhurst Park’s secret is out, the finest player outside the Premier League has been promoted from the Under 21 team less than a day after his 20th birthday. He is the best player to come out of Selhurst Park since Ian Wright, a wonderful blend of trickery, pace and outrageous skill. The Palace winger can play across all three positions up front but has been switching wings of late as Ian Holloway’s team strive to reach the Premier League.

Peterborough manager Darren Ferguson claimed he was simply ‘unplayable’ after Zaha’s performance at London Road won another three promotion points for Palace last Saturday. There is even a billboard on London’s south circular with a giant poster exclaiming ‘He’s just too good for you’, in recognition of his remarkable progress.

‘In training the senior players will try and smash me if I try anything,’ he revealed. ‘One time against Paddy McCarthy (Palace’s central defender) I did a double touch, brought it back and tapped it past him — he just wiped me out. ‘I thought “yes, I expect that from you” and I don’t mind because defenders aren’t going to let you mug them off in front of their own team-mates, are they?’

Poster boy: Crystal Palace celebrate the Selhurst Park chant saluting their star

'I’m not saying I’m leaving Palace ... but the Premier League is the place to be'

Zaha revealed he worked it all out in the summer, using a core stability and conditioning programme and combining it with long spells refining his mesmerising skills with a tennis ball playing with friends.
His development has been breathtaking as he operates at a different level to the rest of the Championship. Nobody can get the ball off him now. ‘Last season Guly do Prado at Southampton grabbed me and said, “Respect me”. I thought, “Why should I respect you? I don’t know you”. Against Blackburn a couple of weeks ago, Colin Kazim-Richards tried to get into my head. He went through me and after that said, “You’ll have to be sharper than that, lad”. I thought, “Shut up, fool”.

‘It even happens before games now. Brighton’s manager Gus Poyet said Will Buckley is better than me, but I don’t see the point of coming out with nonsense like that. Even last season, when Ian Holloway was at Blackpool, he was saying, “What about your barnet, mate?” because I had a different hair style. ‘When I found out he was coming to Palace I thought, “Oh no”, but after I met him I realised just how good he is. Now I don’t bite, I just keep my head down and don’t care. When I’ve got the ball at my feet I do wonder what goes through a defender’s head when the Palace fans are singing, “He’s just too good for you”.’

Wing wizard: Zaha has been tormenting Championship defences all season

Zaha hears that every game at Selhurst Park and even the manager sings it to him in the dressing room after Holloway was taught it by the co-chairman Stephen Browett’s son, Ben. Zaha is handling the expectation, turning it on in front of Arsenal chief scout Steve Rowley when Palace won at Leicester last month, and earning the respect of Tottenham’s Les Ferdinand and Tim Sherwood at Peterborough last Saturday.

Stoke City and Wigan were willing to pay £3million for the Championship’s young player of the year last season and Palace turned down £6m from Reading days before August’s transfer deadline. Everyone inside the Palace boardroom knows he is destined for the Champions League, but co-chairmen Steve Parish and Browett will resist any bids until the summer at least.

Zaha added: ‘I see people criticising, when they are thinking like, “£20m? My a**e”, but I never put a price tag on my head. ‘I remember when people were saying Palace should sell me for £1m because I wouldn’t do anything in the game — that was hard. ‘The Premier League is where I want to go but I’m not saying I want to leave Palace right now.

Accolade: Zaha is presented with the npower Football League Young Player of the Year Award earlier this year

‘John Bostock left Palace when he was 16 and playing in the first team, but he left for the first club that came in for him — that’s kind of stupid.‘Me, I’ve played over 100 games in the Championship. (Alex) Oxlade-Chamberlain went from League One to Arsenal and didn’t play anywhere near that.‘I spoke with Jordan Henderson and Raheem Sterling and they both said the Premier League is the place to be. I’m not saying I’m leaving Palace but that’s where I want to play.’ Zaha is learning fast, coming to terms with the attention that comes with being marked out as the best Championship player.

On Monday Nike couriered customised boots to the team hotel with the St George’s cross stitched into the side panels as Zaha prepares for his bow as an England player. His family, including five brothers and three sisters, were booking tickets to travel to Stockholm to watch his full international debut. At first he was fazed by the call from Hodgson on Sunday night, confused after Didier Drogba tried to convince him to play for the Ivory Coast at the Africa Cup of Nations in January.

Word in the ear: Drogba is still hoping that Zaha will commit to play for Ivory Coast

'I see people criticising me but I never put a price tag on my head'

Zaha was born in Abidjan, leaving the Ivory Coast at the age of four when his mother and father, along with his eight siblings, moved to England. He has never been back. But the pull of playing for the Ivory Coast in tournament football early next year is serious. England’s clash against Sweden is a FIFA-recognised fixture but it is classed as ‘non-competitive’ and Zaha could still switch to the Ivory Coast even if he plays on Wednesday night.

He said: ‘Didier called me and I was shocked, to be honest. He’s a humble guy and he was just talking to me about the Ivory Coast.
‘I was born in the Ivory Coast but all I know is England. It’s 50-50 at the moment but it’s a choice I will have to make at some stage. ‘I’ve been with the Under 21s and, now that I am with England, I will have to make a decision.’ He has come a long way from the skinny south London kid who used to cry into his pillow at night when he was overlooked for the Palace youth team.

Versatile: Zaha is capable of playing on either wing

He was kept out by Nathaniel Pinney, two years older than Zaha and now at Carshalton Athletic. Until the intervention of Palace’s highly regarded academy director, Gary Issott, he was almost released at the age of 15. ‘I couldn’t get Nathaniel Pinney out of the team and it would break my heart,’ he recalled. ‘My mum would come home and find me with my head buried in my pillow and say, “Don’t be like this, your time will come”.

Pinney for your thoughts...

Nathaniel Pinney, who kept Wilfried Zaha out of Crystal Palace’s Under 18s, now plays for Carshalton Athletic. Pinney, 21, said: ‘People always said he would be good in a few years. Now he’s showing everyone what he can do. He’s always known what he wants to do. It’s difficult but he runs past players in matches like he does in training. It works. The England call-up is a bonus but he deserves it. Hopefully he’ll get his chance to play - good luck to him.’

‘I would invite all my family to the games, expecting to start, and then I’d be told I was close but not close enough. ‘My mum had always been good for my game. She said I was trying to play football before I could walk. I don’t know if I was born with it, if it’s natural. Maybe it’s 50-50. ‘I spent hours with a tennis ball doing tricks, little drag backs in my bedroom and watching YouTube clips of Ronaldinho and stuff. ‘I’d just try and pull it off… and then I’d do it for Palace.’ On Wednesday night, he will get the chance to do it for England.
​

 

[General Veers]

Poor old Scott Sinclair this is the worst time EVER to be Helen Flanagan's boyfriend

By MARK WEBSTER PUBLISHED: 09:27 GMT, 13 November 2012 | UPDATED: 09:27 GMT, 13 November 2012

I can tell you one footballer who is delighted about the international break: Scott Sinclair. At least there'll be a few less lads at the training ground screeching, 'oh my god, oh my god' in his ear and fanning themselves manically with their hands. This has to be the worst time EVER to be Helen Flanagan’s boyfriend. Day two in ITV's I'm A Celebrity... jungle and the soap star admitted she even has to 'psych (herself) up like it’s a task' to simply go to the dunny.

Water performance: Helen Flanagan showers off the bugs in the jungle after her latest Bush Tucker Trial

It's you: Helen discovers her fate of tackling more creepy crawlies

'Whenever you're on the loo, it's like oh my god,' she weeped. I'm sure you'd already guessed that’s what it was like. It was Helen who was voted for to take part in the first bushtucker trial, which was about to make a trip to the loo look like a walk in the park. She was up against MP Nadine Dorries, who may be being derided for taking time away from her constituency, but has at least openly declared Snake Rock as a second home.

In she goes: Helen was reluctant to take up the daunting task

Head-to-head: Helen goes up against MP Nadine Dorries in a bid to win her team some tucker

Helen admitted to Ant and Dec that, 'she had been a pathetic wimp over the whole height thing,' having taken nearly a month to cross a rope bridge. 'So it’s just height?', asked Dec. No Dec, it isn’t. Sent off to the trial with Brian Conley and David Haye singing the 'Rocky' theme ('she won’t do it,' muttered Brian as she walked out of earshot), Helen was confronted with being buried in the company of thousands of insects. She lasted, oh I don't know, three seconds.

Helping hand: David Haye guides Flanagan through some push-ups in the jungle gym

Nadine also failed the task but did last quite a few minutes and as she was shaking the bugs out of her shorts and wotnot after, Helen looked on with a mixture of fear and envy and announced 'I got a twig in my hair'.So no tucker for the Croc Creek Crew this time, but they did find some comfort in the situation. As they lay quietly waiting for Flanagan to make her triumphant (well?) return, Linda Robson sighed and said ‘it’s quiet without Helen’. To which David replied: 'like when the kids go to school'. More quiet time tomorrow, too, Crew. It’s Helen and Nadine AGAIN for the bushtucker trial. Oh. My. God!
​

 

[General Veers]

Chelsea plot £30m Fellaini raid as Everton star hints that he wants out

By NEIL MOXLEY PUBLISHED: 08:22 GMT, 13 November 2012 | UPDATED: 09:36 GMT, 13 November 2012

Marouane Fellaini has dropped the biggest hint yet that he will be quitting Goodison Park. The Belgian international has told press in his own country that he will be seeking a fresh challenge in the New Year. Everton boss David Moyes has insisted he will be looking for a 'big price' should the moment come when a bid is received at the Merseyside club.

End of the road: Belgium midfielder Marouane Fellaini is ready to quit Everton for pastures new

Sportsmail understands that Chelsea will lead the way with a £30m offer for the 24-year-old when the transfer window opens. Fellaini is reported to have told journalists in his own country: 'I've seen everything with Everton and in January or at the end of the season, I will turn to a new club or a new league.' As the six-foot four-inch tall attacking midfielder is eligible for the Champions League, he is an attractive target for some of European football's richest.

Hair we go: Fellaini has been in tremendous form so far this season, alerting a host of top suitors to his services

However, the player who has become a cult figure on Merseyside with his eye-catching head of hair, only signed an improved five-year deal little more than 12 months ago. But the cash on offer, allied to the club's financial position, may force Moyes's hand - although the Scot is hoping that the player, who grabbed his sixth goal of the season in the Toffees' 2-1 victory over Sunderland will stay to help the club's push towards Champions League qualification themselves.
​

 

[General Veers]

So is he the new Nani, Fergie? United scouts watch Porto's £36m Rodriguez for SEVENTH time this season

By JOHN EDWARDS PUBLISHED: 08:52 GMT, 13 November 2012 | UPDATED: 08:52 GMT, 13 November 2012


Manchester United scouts watched Porto striker James Rodriguez on Sunday for a seventh time this season, proving Sir Alex Ferguson’s interest in the 'new Nani' is as keen as ever. Rodgriguez starred in Porto’s 2-1 victory over Academica and representatives from Old Trafford flew out to watch him first-hand — despite a release clause of £36million. Rodriguez is one of Colombia’s hottest prospects. The 21-year-old has already earned been hailed as the ‘new Carlos Valderrama’, the ‘South American Cristiano Ronaldo’ and the new Nani.

In demand: James Rodriguez - mobbed by his team-mates (below) celebrates after scoring Porto's opening goal against Academica on Sunday in front of watching Manchester United scouts

United have stepped up their pursuit of Rodriguez but been stunned by a massive hike in his asking price.

Sportsmail can reveal that United have been shocked by news that Rodriguez has renegotiated his Porto deal and agreed a significant increase in his transfer market valuation. When United last enquired about cost, they were told they would have to pay £24m to buy him out of his contract. In a readjustment that surely places the goalscoring winger beyond their reach, the release clause now stands at £36m.United have a ready-made bargaining tool in unsettled Portugal winger Nani, who could be used in a part-exchange package. Porto would happily welcome him back to his homeland but cannot afford his current wage, let alone the £130,000 a week he is thought to be seeking to stay at Old Trafford.

On the ball: Porto rate the Colombia star at £36million

Porto are unlikely to consider any bid for Rodriguez that falls below the buy-out figure in his contract after seeing him further enhance his reputation by laying on a fourth-minute opener for fellow-Colombian Jackson Martinez and follow up with two goals of his own on Friday night. It leaves Ferguson exploring ways of raising funds to finance what would be an expensive January transaction, with finding a buyer for Nani appearing to be his main priority. Rodriguez was captain of the Colombian-U20 team, leading them to a victory at the 2011 Toulon Tournament where he was voted the best player.
He joined Porto for £4m from Argentine team Club Atletico Banfield in 2010.
​

 

[spotter542]

║║║║║ Barclays Premier League Season 2012/2013 ║║║║║

Sorry to barge in here to give predictions about the upcoming matches.
If Threadstarter is not comfortable about it , kindly PM Mods or Towkay Sam to remove this thread.
Kindly bet within your limits.
* My predictions may not be 100% accurate but it may not be 100% off target :p
Chok dee


Arsenal under 3
Wigan +1
Manchester City under 3 1/4
Newcastle - 1/2
Queen's Park Rangers under 2 3/4
Reading under 2 3/4
Chelsea - 1/2
Manchester United - 1 1/2
Sunderland + 3/4
Stoke City + 1/2


發發發

 

[General Veers]

Re: ║║║║║ Barclays Premier League Season 2012/2013 ║║║║║

Sorry to barge in here to give predictions about the upcoming matches.
If Threadstarter is not comfortable about it , kindly PM Mods or Towkay Sam to remove this thread.
Kindly bet within your limits.

No problem. Just pay rental fees. :p

 

[General Veers]

Beckham has 'absolutely no plans' to leave LA Galaxy and move to Australia
A spokesperson for the former England captain has played down talk of a move Down Under, insisting that he is only thinking about delivering another championship for the MLS side

Balotelli is desperate to go home, says Evra
The Manchester United defender claims his City rival "really misses Italy" and added further fuel to the fire after defensive coach Angelo Gregucci hinted that he could be sold

Tottenham to hold talks with Kick It Out and Metropolitan Police over anti-Semitic chanting
The Society of Black Lawyers recently issued an ultimatum to the north London club calling for them to fight the use of the word "Yid" or face further legal action

FFA claims contact with Beckham camp over A-League move
Melbourne Victory were quick to distance themselves from speculation linking them with the former England captain, but Perth Glory have refused to rule out an approach

Wenger 'massively pleased' by Jenkinson England debut
The Arsenal manager has expressed his delight after seeing the 20-year-old make a substitute appearance for the Three Lions during their defeat to Sweden on Wednesday

Barton: FA have a vendetta against me
The QPR midfielder, currently on loan at Marseille, used Twitter to vent his frustration following the news his debut will not count toward his 12-match ban for violent conduct

Arsenal can compete with world's best - Gazidis
The Gunners chief executive has moved to reassure worried and disillusioned fans by insisting the club has "an outstanding platform" to compete at the highest level

Luis Suarez commits future to Liverpool amid Manchester City talk
The Premier League champions had been linked with a £40 million January move for the Uruguayan striker, but he has now reaffirmed his desire to stay at Anfield

Papiss Cisse a doubt for Newcastle after Senegal dispute
The Magpies are sweating over the striker's availability for Saturday's clash with Swansea, as the country threaten to suspend him from action after questioning his alleged injury

Balotelli ready to fight for Manchester City place, says coach Gregucci
The Italy international has fallen down the pecking order at the Etihad Stadium recently but the backroom staff member backs him to force his way back into Robeto Mancini's plans

I am in no rush to leave Everton, insists 'patient' Fellaini
The 24-year-old Belgium international has reportedly attracted interest from the likes of Manchester United and Chelsea after an impressive start to the season at Goodison Park

Falcao not thinking about Chelsea move
The Atletico Madrid man is subject of strong interest from Stamford Bridge, but insists that he remains focused on playing for his current club after 13 goals in 11 games this term

Rodgers adamant Luis Suarez is staying at Liverpool amid Manchester City rumours
The 25-year-old forward has been in blistering form for the Reds so far this campaign and has reportedly captured the interest of last season's Premier League champions

Carragher hails the impact of Liverpool's youngsters
The 34-year-old centre-back has had to settle for a bit-part role this season, but made a return to the side to play a key part in the club's 1-1 draw at Chelsea on Sunday

Playing at Arsenal is magic, boasts Sagna
The 29-year-old right-back has been heavily linked with a move away from the club recently, but maintains his love for the Gunners, claiming he feels 'at home' at the Emirates

Lloris admits Tottenham situation is 'difficult'
The 25-year-old France international goalkeeper has struggled for consistent playing time since making his move to White Hart Lane in the summer from Olympique Lyonnais

Szczesny set for derby start as Gibbs & Rosicky near Arsenal returns
The Gunners' No. 1 is in line to feature in Saturday's clash against Tottenham after two months out, while Theo Walcott and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain should also appear

Manchester United legend Cantona lauds Giggs' and Scholes' longevity
The retired 46-year-old former France international admires the longevity shown over the years by two of the Red Devils' key players

Falcao would be great for Chelsea, says David Luiz
The Atletico Madrid star failed to find the net when Colombia took on Brazil on Thursday morning, but could soon make a jaw-dropping €60 million move to Stamford Bridge

 

[General Veers]

Manchester United and Liverpool target Tom Ince in no rush to leave Blackpool
The 20-year-old left Anfield last August after failing to make the cut, but having proved himself at Blackpool is now sought after by the Premier League's top clubs

Mancini: Balotelli must work harder
The Manchester City boss has claimed that the Italian striker needs to work harder than he is in training in order to get back into the first-team fold at the Etihad Stadium

Szczesny and Walcott to start for Arsenal in north London derby
The goalkeeper will return from injury for the visit of rivals Tottenham while Mikel Arteta, Bacary Sagna, Santi Cazorla and Olivier Giroud should all also feature despite doubts

Rodgers challenges Reina to rediscover Liverpool form
The Anfield boss believes the 30-year-old goalkeeper is suffering from a dip in confidence, but feels he can help the Spaniard get back to his best and lead the club to success

Di Matteo in the dark over Lampard's long-term Chelsea future
The Blues legend's current contract expires in the summer, and has been linked with January moves to the USA and China as talks over an extension have reached an impasse

Wenger: Arsenal aim is top four, not Tottenham toppling
The Gunners' manager has confirmed that the north London club want to finish in the top four to qualify for the Champions League, as opposed to just outdoing their rivals

Villas-Boas hails Wenger as 'one of the greats' ahead of north London derby
Tottenham's head coach has heaped praise upon the Frenchman, believing that the Arsenal boss' own success in charge of the club has led to raised expectations

'I really miss him' - Cristiano Ronaldo admits he is still fond of Sir Alex Ferguson
The 27-year-old Portugal international spent six successful seasons at Manchester United before moving to Real Madrid, and described his former boss as his 'father in football'

Sir Alex Ferguson: No rush on Scholes' future at Manchester United
The 38-year-old has a decision to make on whether to carry on next season but his manager will be letting him decide in his own time whether to renew his contract

Clash between Martinez's Wigan and Liverpool sparks thoughts of what might have been
The Wigan boss returns to Anfield for the first time since rejecting the chance to succeed Kenny Dalglish as manager, leaving Brendan Rodgers to profit from his choice

Van Persie is 'more of a killer' than Giroud, says Arsenal scout Karembeu
The Gunners scout and former France international believes his countryman faces a difficult task in replacing the Dutchman, but has backed him to come good in the Premier League

Rafael maturing to fill the void left by Gary Neville at Manchester United
The right-back has arguably been the Red Devils' most consistent defender this season after suffering disappointment at the Olympic Games with Brazil in the summer

Arteta to continue taking Arsenal penalties despite Fulham miss
The Spanish midfielder saw his 94th-minute spot-kick saved by Mark Schwarzer but will continue as the Gunners' designated taker according to manager Arsene Wenger

'Scholes is a genius' - Carrick hails Manchester United team-mate on 38th birthday
The England international has praised his veteran midfield colleague, citing him as a major influence on his career since his move to the Red Devils six years ago

No chance of Romeu leaving Chelsea in January, insists Di Matteo
The Spaniard has made just four appearances for the west London side so far this season but his manager is keen to retain his services when the transfer window reopens

Beckham laughs off rumours of move to Australia
Recent reports have linked the former England international with a transfer to the A-League, but the LA Galaxy midfielder has moved to dismiss these suggestions

Tottenham & Arsenal call for good behaviour from fans ahead of derby clash
Prior to the north London rivals' clash at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday, the clubs have released a statement warning fans to adhere fully to stadium regulations

Bale: Arsenal clash perfect opportunity to recover from Manchester City loss
The Spurs winger is relishing the prospect of taking on the Gunners and has acknowledged the game's importance for the fans, while admitting he wants to get on the scoresheet

Form is irrelevant during Arsenal-Tottenham clash, says Szczesny
The goalkeeper believes the atmosphere of the north London derby means recent displays are defunct, while he looks to learn from his injury troubles and dismissal during Euro 2012

Balotelli's younger brother Enoch joins Salford City
The Manchester City star's sibling has joined the Northern Premier League First Division outfit, which is based five miles away from Etihad Stadium, after a failed Stoke City trial

Balotelli is not leaving Manchester City, insists agent
With reported interest from both AC Milan and Inter recently surfacing, the Italy international's representative has maintained his client's happiness at Etihad Stadium

Welbeck's time as a centre forward at Manchester United will come, maintains Sir Alex Ferguson
The England international has had to make do with a position on the wing following the arrival of Robin van Persie and the form of Chicharito, and the boss has asked for patience

Di Matteo hints at Chelsea interest in Falcao
The Blues boss insisted that any manager would love a player of the 26-year-old's quality in their squad, while refusing to rule out transfer activity in the January window

Tottenham defender Caulker eyeing revenge against Arsenal
The centre-back played in a 4-1 League Cup defeat to the Gunners two years ago, but beat them 3-2 when on loan at Swansea last year and is looking for a similar showing on Saturday

Everton not looking to do any business in January, says Moyes
The Toffees manager, whose side currently sit in the Champions League places, does not believe his side will strengthen in the upcoming transfer window due to a lack of "resources"

Gerrard reveals coaching desire once England duties are over
The Three Lions skipper earned his 100th cap in the 4-2 defeat to Sweden on Wednesday and admits he garners aspirations of becoming a manager after his playing days conclude

Liverpool director of communications Jen Chang leaves club
A spokesmen confirmed that the former Sports Illustrated senior editor has left by mutual consent, and has returned to the United States due to "family reasons"

Best yet to come from Manchester City, insists Aguero
The 24-year-old believes the champions have so far lacked the "flair" of last term, but insisted that injuries are to blame for any disjointed displays domestically or in Europe

Moyes confirms Everton pair Mirallas and Gibson are out of Reading clash
The Merseyside club will travel to face the Royals without the Belgian international forward and the Irish midfielder, having lost the pair to injury ahead of Saturday's game

Clarke could have been Liverpool manager - Cech
The Czech goalkeeper hails the coaching abilities of the West Brom boss and thinks the Reds missed a trick in releasing the Scot in the aftermath of Kenny Dalglish's departure

Villas-Boas: Tottenham want revenge over Arsenal
The Gunners sealed a memorable 5-2 win over their rivals in last season's corresponding fixture and the Portuguese reveals that Spurs chairman Daniel Levy is out for retribution

Aston Villa deny reports linking Benteke with Arsenal
The 21-year-old had been quoted as saying he would be interested in a move to north London, but Paul Lambert believes that the striker's words have been misconstrued

Chelsea captain Terry out for three weeks with knee injury
Roberto Di Matteo also revealed that Frank Lampard will not recover in time for the trip to West Brom, a club which the 42-year-old has mixed memories of from his time as boss

Cazorla, Arteta & Giroud join Arsenal's list of doubts for Tottenham clash
Arsene Wenger fumes at the Spain international's mid-week trip to Panama for an international friendly and would have preferred to see the playmaker rested

12:40
'It won't be long before Sterling is an England regular' - Liverpool team-mate Gerrard
The Reds captain has praised the Jamaica-born winger for his rapid development and believes he will soon be a Three Lions mainstay after featuring against Sweden on Wednesday

12:25
Rooney targets Sir Bobby Charlton's England & Manchester United scoring records
The 27-year-old insists he wants to remain as a striker in the Red Devils' line-up for the time being, and is eyeing another decade as an Old Trafford regular

12:20
Lucas returns to full Liverpool training
The Brazilian midfielder is also closing in on a playing comeback having spent the last 12 weeks on the sidelines with a thigh injury and tweeted to express his happiness

12:15
Bale & Sandro see off Podolski & Arteta - the ultimate Arsenal & Tottenham combined XI
As the two sides prepare to meet in the Premier League, Goal.com debates which players would make it into an overall team from those available in both squads

12:15
Millwall - Leeds United Betting Preview: Back the hosts to continue their hot streak
Kenny Jackett's side are unbeaten in nine matches going into this clash and Willie Duncan is backing the Lions to extend that run by seeing off Neil Warnock's men this weekend

12:00
Fulham - Sunderland Betting Preview: Cottagers can start strongly but expect grit from O'Neill's men
The visitors are looking for their first away win of the season in west London, but while Adam Bate expects a tight game, he doesn't think it will come against Martin Jol's men

11:50
Mancini denies Manchester City interest in Liverpool star Suarez
The Sky Blues boss has slammed continuing speculation about potential ins and outs, insisting a move for the Uruguayan would be impossible as he already has four strikers

11:30
Wilshere pleads for patience from Arsenal supporters as he steps up comeback
Having starred in three games for the Gunners since returning from a 17-month injury lay-off, the midfielder wants fans to bear with him as battles to regain full fitness

11:00
Sir Alex Ferguson sweating over Rooney fitness ahead of Norwich clash
The England international missed England's friendly in Sweden with an ankle injury picked up in the win over Aston Villa but Robin van Persie and Javier Hernandez should feature

10:50
Falcao reveals admiration for Chelsea
The Atletico Madrid star is confident that he could replicate his goalscoring feats in English football and also praises the Champions League holders' ambition

 

[General Veers]

​

 

[General Veers]

Lloris: Adebayor red card made Tottenham explode at Arsenal
The France captain insists that the Togolese striker's dismissal changed the game completely and, despite conceding five, was happy to get a rare outing for his side

Sir Alex Ferguson praises Norwich display at Carrow Road
The Manchester United manager expressed his disappointment at dropping three points, but says credit must be given to Chris Hughton's side and they manner in which they fought

Moyes refuses to blame officials after Reading defeat
The 49-year-old revealed that Phil Neville may miss up to eight weeks after undergoing a knee operation, while Brian McDermott thinks his team's first win could be a turning point

Norwich City 1-0 Manchester United: Pilkington punishes lacklustre visitors
The former Old Trafford youth player scored the only goal of the game with a sublime header as Sir Alex Ferguson's side relinquished top spot in the Premier League to rivals City

'It's not just Luis Suarez' - Rodgers keen to highlight Liverpool team ethic after win
The Uruguyan produced another brilliant performance for the Reds at Anfield on Saturday afternoon, scoring twice as the hosts romped to a 3-0 victory over Wigan

Mancini vows more to come from Manchester City after Aston Villa thrashing
The Italian was happy with the performance of his strikers in Saturday's comfortable victory at home, while Villa manager Paul Lambert is left frustrated by refereeing decisions

Villas-Boas refuses to blame Adebayor for Tottenham's defeat to Arsenal
The Portuguese manager was pleased despite his side's 5-2 north London derby mauling at the hands of the Gunners, and says the referee was right to dismiss his striker

Liverpool 3-0 Wigan: Sensational Suarez seals comfortable Reds win
Brendan Rodgers' side were lacklustre in a flat first-half performance but turned on the style after the break with the Uruguayan forward instrumental in their victory

Manchester City 5-0 Aston Villa: Tevez & Aguero double up to pile pressure on hapless visitors
City cruise to victory over hapless Villa, who will feel hard done by on one goal but can have no real complaints with the manner of their defeat to the Premier League champions

West Brom 2-1 Chelsea: Long & Odemwingie strike as Blues slip up in title chase
Goals from the Irishman and Nigerian either side of half-time saw off Roberto Di Matteo's makeshift side in an entertaining encounter, as the Baggies go fourth in the table

Wenger demands consistency from Arsenal after thrashing Tottenham
The Gunners beat their north-London rivals 5-2 for a second successive season, and the boss claims people are right to question his side, as they are not challenging at the top

Moyes is as 'vital' to Everton as Sir Alex Ferguson is to Manchester United, says Howard
The Everton goalkeeper has stressed the importance of the manager at Goodison Park, and says the person who follows the Scot will have a tough task on their hands

Adebayor madness opens door for season-shaping Arsenal victory
The Togo international was red carded on just 18 minutes after having given Spurs the lead, allowing the hosts back into the game and to leapfrog their north London rivals

'I've shown everybody what I can do,' says Walcott after Arsenal thrash Tottenham
The England international was in sparkling form as the Gunners demolished north London rivals Spurs on Saturday, while Olivier Giroud insists he is feeling better at the club

Mancini: I have no problem with dropping Hart
The Manchester City manager has sent out at warning to his goalkeeper, insisting that his position as number one is under threat, just like any other member of his squad

Arsenal 5-2 Tottenham: Giroud & Walcott punish 10-man Spurs to seal vital comeback win
The visitors took the lead through Emmanuel Adebayor but a red card for the striker after just 20 minutes allowed the Gunners to claim a convincing win against their local rivals

Berbatov is the complete player, says Fulham manager Jol
The 56-year-old manage praised his Bulgarian summer signing by claiming he can play in any forward position, with the striker scoring five and assisting three goals in seven games

Ivanovic: Chelsea must learn from mistakes to rediscover form
The Blues defender has insisted that the team must maintain their concentration in games in order to return to winning ways and top the Premier League table

Clarke has no regrets over leaving Chelsea
The West Brom manager says he left the west London club to get out of his comfort zone, and suggested he may have been offered the Stamford Bridge job had he stayed

Hernandez's fine form is down to his summer rest, says Manchester United boss Ferguson
The 70-year-old manager believes the reason for the Mexican's stunning recent displays has been down to a summer break, after the striker suffered from playing 'too much football'

 

[General Veers]

Luiz unconcerned by Chelsea's dip in form
Roberto Di Matteo's side are without a win in their last four Premier League matches, drawing two and losing two, but the Brazilian defender is staying positive

Suarez is not for sale & Liverpool will strengthen in January, declares chairman Werner
The Reds chief has insisted that the Uruguayan will not be allowed to leave the club, and hopes that they can be more successful when the transfer window re-opens

Cazorla's nickname should be Messi, says Wilshere
The Arsenal midfielder claimed that his team-mate is "up there with the best" but described his influence in midfield as different to that of former captain Cesc Fabregas

Where now for Walcott after dream derby leaves more questions than answers
The 23-year-old is no closer to agreeing a new deal and has shown signs of frustration after being neglected as a choice to spearhead Arsene Wenger's attack

De Guzman delighted with first Premier League goal in 'historic' Swansea win over Newcastle
The attacker hailed his side's performance as Welsh side secured a first victory over the Magpies in 32 years before revealing his delight at playing in England's top flight

Wenger rules out January exit for Walcott despite Arsenal contract dispute
With just seven months left to run on his current deal, the England international is stalling over new terms as he looks for assurances over a central role in attack

Gibson closing in on Everton return
Toffees coach Alan Stubbs is pleased with the midfielder's recovery from injury after making his first appearance since September in a draw against Reading for the Under-21s

Pardew targets Europa League success after latest Newcastle home defeat
The Magpies manager is hoping to recover from two Premier League losses in a row at St James' Park by progressing in Europe with a win over Maritimo on Thursday

McClean has received death threats, reveals O'Neill
The Black Cats winger has been the victim of abuse following his refusal to wear a poppy during last weekend's Remembrance Day fixtures, including boos from his own fans on Sunday

Chelsea must improve in Terry’s absence, says Di Matteo
After Saturday's 2-1 loss to West Brom left the Blues with just two points from their last four Premier League games, the Italian has called on his defence to tighten things up

Rodgers: No major signings for Liverpool in January
The Anfield boss says it is unlikely there will be many changes at the club in mid-season, but admits that he is eager to add some striking competition to his squad

Sam Allardyce wary of ‘underachieving' Stoke
The West Ham manager believes Potters boss Tony Pulis will be unhappy with his side so far this season having won just twice in the Premier League, making them more dangerous

Carragher: Fourth place within Liverpool’s reach
The veteran Reds defender believes the form of other clubs could help the Anfield side rise up the table, and praised striker Luis Suarez for his current goalscoring form

Manchester United's Kagawa up for AFC International Player of the Year award
The Japanese midfielder and Fulham goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer are on the three-man shortlist, along with Inter defender Yuto Nagatomo

Walcott still adamant about striker role at Arsenal
The ex-Southampton attacker has been vocal about his desire to play through the middle for the Gunners as negotiations over a contract extension continue to stall

Hodgson: I have moved on from Terry and Ferdinand debate
The England boss is no longer concerned by the debate over the Manchester United and Chelsea players' international careers, saying he has other interesting alternatives

Bendtner would consider Tottenham move
The Arsenal striker, who is currently loaned out at Juventus, admits that he would not refuse a transfer to the Gunners’ fierce local rivals in the near future

QPR legend Parkes calls on club to replace Hughes with Harry Redknapp
The former goalkeeper slams the club's poor form, suggesting that chairman Tony Fernandes should 'bite the bullet' and swap the under-fire manager with the ex-Tottenham boss

Liverpool full-back Jose Enrique dedicates goal to unborn son
After 53 Premier League appearances for the Reds, the Spaniard got on the scoresheet for the first time and celebrated with a thumb-in-mouth gesture for his soon-to-be baby

Liverpool hamstrung Owen's potential, says Sir Alex Ferguson
The Manchester United manager brought the striker to Old Trafford in 2009 but feels that he could have been a better player had the Anfield club developed him more carefully

Sterling apologises to Watson after broken leg
The young Liverpool winger collided with the Wigan midfielder during the 3-0 win at Anfield, his opponent falling awkwardly and requiring lengthy medical treatment

Fulham boss Jol hails reluctant entertainer Berbatov
The 56-year-old Craven Cottage boss praises the Bulgarian forward as an unwilling showman, highlighting the penalty that the 31-year-old scored against Arsenal as a prime example

Manchester United's luck runs out as Norwich loss cements title doubts
The Red Devils had lost only one of their last 10 Premier League games before defeat against the Canaries but had often relied on individuals to get them out of trouble

Manchester City speculation only fuels Suarez as Liverpool star continues scoring run
The 25-year-old netted twice as the Reds posted a 3-0 victory over Wigan, another fine performance proving that transfer rumblings will not distract him from his goal

'One minute a hero, the next a villain' - Tottenham striker Adebayor devastated over Arsenal red card
The Spurs forward opened the scoring in the north London derby but was sent off after just 18 minutes, and could only watch as his former club overran Andre Villas-Boas' side 5-2

Balotelli drifts from Manchester City as five-goal show highlights champions' killer instinct
The Italian striker has been left out of consecutive squads by Roberto Mancini and, with PSG ready to swoop, the 22-year-old's time at the Etihad could be coming to an end

Tottenham must not trade on excuses after Arsenal derby demolition
Saturday's 5-2 loss affirmed aspects of the Andre Villas-Boas' style and suggests he has the gall to succeed at White Hart Lane but the club's current form strikes a worrying chord

Vidic facing New Year return as Manchester United fear injury relapse
The 31-year-old Serbia international broke down in the build-up to his side's victory over Liverpool on September 23 but won't be rushed by back Sir Alex Ferguson

Clarke: West Brom must remain grounded after Chelsea win
Following suggestions that Europe beckons for his Baggies side after a 2-1 win against the Blues, the Hawthorns manager has emphasised the need to stay focused

Sir Alex Ferguson: Cristiano Ronaldo is unbelievable but unbuyable
The Manchester United manager has waxed lyrical about his former star and would like to think a return is possible but admits that he does not think it will happen

Barton admits regret over final-day red card at Manchester City
The Marseille midfielder has spoken of his sadness about the controversial dismissal, how it affected his passion for the game and how that spirit has been renewed in France

Paris Saint-Germain prepare big-money Balotelli bid to tempt Manchester City
The striker has fallen out of favour at the Etihad Stadium in recent weeks, and although Roberto Mancini is keen to keep his compatriot, the Italian may be open to sell in January

Hughton hails 'resilient' Norwich after Manchester United win
The Canaries boss was delighted to see his side remain strong against the toughest test they have faced this season and hails his side's confidence as they make it six unbeaten

Di Matteo: Chelsea defence not good enough in West Brom defeat
The Blues' manager has criticised his defenders following the shock defeat against the Baggies, imploring his back-line to be more "defensively attentive"

Pilkington thrilled to exorcise Manchester United demons
The Norwich winger headed home the only goal of the game at Carrow Road and was ecstatic after missing several chances in a defeat to the Red Devils at Old Trafford last season

 

[General Veers]

Rangers eyeing move to Premier League

The club's chief executive has declared that the only English team bigger than his side is Manchester United, and also believes Barcelona and Madrid would want them in La Liga

Nov 17, 2012 11:40:00 AM
By Matt Davis

Rangers chief executive Charles Green has announced that the economically-crippled club are looking into the possibility of leaving Scottish football.

This follows a claim from Green that the SPL do not want Rangers back in the top division in Scotland.

However, with the Scottish leagues set to undergo a revamp, the Glasgow club see this as their opportunity to engineer a move to another country.

"The SPL told us face-to-face, 'We don't want you, you aren't welcome,'" he said in an interview with Associated Press.

"What we understand is that any restructuring [of the Scottish leagues] will also revisit the taboo.

"A bit like, 'Don't talk about the war to the Germans.' 'Don't mention Rangers and Celtic leaving Scotland.' It was always 'Shhh don't mention that'.

"I think the taboo of that is going to be lifted... Scottish football without Rangers and Celtic might actually become more competitive within the remaining clubs rather than having these two monsters sat above them."

Green also believes that the club would have support from the likes of Manchester United, a side he believes will be able to generate extra revenue from ticket sales through making the sport more competitive.

"Why would Man United want to play Southampton? Why, when they could play Rangers? Sixty percent of the Premier League don't want Rangers," he continued.

"Of course they don't want Rangers. Why would Southampton, Swansea [City], Wigan, Aston Villa? Why would any of them want Rangers or Celtic in their league.

"Why would they? It threatens their existence... but if you asked the big clubs, 'Would you like Rangers?' [They would]."

The Gers' head honcho also believes that even Spanish giants Barcelona and Real Madrid would welcome Celtic and Rangers to their league.
"Ask Barcelona and Real Madrid if they would like Rangers and Celtic in their league," Green added

"They definitely would. Why wouldn't Barcelona want to play Rangers home and away as opposed to playing Getafe. They would sell [those] games out."

 

[General Veers]

EXCLUSIVE: Hughes fights on as civil war rages at QPR over his future

By SAMI MOKBEL PUBLISHED: 22:45 GMT, 18 November 2012 | UPDATED: 08:04 GMT, 19 November 2012

Mark Hughes is clinging on to his job against the backdrop of civil war at Queens Park Rangers. The 49-year-old is facing a fight after Saturday’s 3-1 home defeat by Southampton left them rooted at the foot of the Premier League table, without a win in 12 games. On Sunday night, the QPR chief had not been given any assurances from co-owner Tony Fernandes, who had been unwavering in his public support of Hughes.

Come in, Harry: Mark Hughes is clinging onto his job at QPR after another match without a win

Fernandes is not due in the UK ahead of the weekend clash against Manchester United, but Sportsmail understands Rangers staff have been put on red alert in case the tycoon makes an unscheduled arrival.

Fernandes was upset at the manner of the loss to Southampton but is leaning towards giving Hughes more time, unless other directors can persuade him otherwise. It is believed key shareholder Ruben Gnanalingam will be in the country before the match against Sir Alex Ferguson’s side, while Hughes and Fernandes are expected to have talks this week.

An unexpected arrival of Fernandes would surely spell the end for Hughes as a growing resignation descends on Loftus Road that the manager will be sacked before the visit to Old Trafford. The former Manchester City boss is dividing opinion at the club. Most shareholders and board members are said to have lost faith in his management.

The same group wanted Hughes out after the 1-0 defeat at Arsenal on October 27 and are seriously questioning Fernandes’s decision to stand by his manager. Many believe the key reason behind his decision not to sack Hughes is a probable hefty pay-off.

Sportsmail has also learned players have lost faith in Hughes, unimpressed with how he has addressed his side’s sorry form. The potential appointment of Harry Redknapp is openly discussed. Representatives of the former Tottenham boss, as well as ex-Liverpool chief Rafa Benitez, have indicated their interest to QPR.

Out of ideas: QPR's abject performance against Southampton shocked Tony Fernandes

Speaking on Match of the Day, Redknapp refused to rule out becoming QPR boss: ‘Mark’s still in the position, he’s a top bloke and an excellent manager.

‘He knows what he’s about and until there’s a change, if there is one, then it would not be fair for me to discuss it.’ But even supporters slated Hughes and some of his summer signings on Saturday, chanting: ‘You’re only here for the money!’ Hughes defiantly insists Fernandes and fellow co-owner Amit Bhatia would be wrong to sack him, but has sympathised with fans who criticised his players.

‘I can understand totally the frustration of the fans and they’re well within their rights to say that but I can assure them that’s not the case,’ said Hughes. ‘Everyone is working really hard to turn this around. When you have a performance like Southampton, the fans are absolutely right to criticise, given where we are.

‘In fairness, I was of the same view. But stability is absolutely what this club needs long-term, making wholesale changes again at this club would be the wrong decision. You would expect me to say that, but I honestly believe it.’

To compound Hughes’s problems, striker Djibril Cisse was caught up in a Twitter row with a QPR fan who criticised the Frenchman. Cisse replied with the club address and postcode, tweeting: ‘Come to the training ground, we’ll have a chat big man.’
​

 

[General Veers]

Liverpool star Suarez escapes punishment for 'stamp' on Wigan midfielder Jones

By SAM CUNNINGHAM PUBLISHED: 08:32 GMT, 19 November 2012 | UPDATED: 08:32 GMT, 19 November 2012

Luis Suarez will not face further punishment for what Wigan boss Roberto Martinez described as a 'stamp' on David Jones. The incident happened in the 63rd minute of Liverpool's 3-0 win on Saturday when the Uruguayan was involved in an ugly challenge on the midfielder. But because it occurred during play and was not an off-the-ball incident, under FA regulations it is considered as having been seen and therefore no more action can be taken from video replays.

Let off: Luis Suarez will not be punished for this challenge on David Jones

After the match Martinez said: 'He was very fortunate because there was a stamp on David Jones that the referee didn't see. That wasn't the sign of a top player. He was fortunate. He was lucky. 'It wasn't a nasty game, a bad game. But when you see the replay it is a clear stamp. It could have been a red card if the referee had seen it.' It is not the only controversial incident the striker has been involved in this season. Last month he was criticised by Everton manager David Moyes for a challenge on Sylvain Distin in the Merseyside derby, for which he went unpunished.

Two good: Suarez helped himself to a double in Liverpool's victory over Wigan

And Stoke boss Tony Pulis suggested he should be banned for trying to con referees to win penalties. It will be a relief for manager Brendan Rodgers, who has relied on Suarez's 10 league goals this season that have made him the league's top scorer so far. And team-mate Jamie Carragher joined the list of people praising him.

Centre of attention: Suarez was once again the man making the headlines at Anfield

The defender said: 'He is definitely right up there. I can only talk about the players I've played with: (Robbie) Fowler, (Michael) Owen, (Fernando) Torres and I think he comes pretty close to that list. 'It's not a great Liverpool side at the moment. The other players I've played with have played in sides that have won trophies and been near the top of the league. 'For him to do what he is doing in a side that is still building under the new manager I wouldn't swap him for anyone in the Premier League. 'I think what he does in our team and what he gives us no other player really could.'
​

 

[General Veers]

EXCLUSIVE: Six months after winning Champions League, Chelsea boss Di Matteo is left fighting for job (as Cech is involved in dressing room row...)

By SAMI MOKBEL and NEIL MOXLEY PUBLISHED: 22:45 GMT, 18 November 2012 | UPDATED: 09:56 GMT, 19 November 2012

Roberto Di Matteo is fighting to save his job only six months after lifting the European Cup.His Chelsea team have won just three of their last seven games, and defeat against Juventus in Turin on Tuesday would put their Champions League campaign in serious jeopardy.After starting the season so well, Chelsea's campaign is in danger of falling apart, causing owner Roman Abramovich to lose his patience.

At risk: Roberto Di Matteo is fighting for his job

He is not alone. Goalkeeper Petr Cech was at the centre of a heated dressing-room row following Saturday's 2-1 defeat at West Bromwich.After their game with Juve, Di Matteo's side face Barclays Premier League leaders Manchester City at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.These are vital matches for Di Matteo, with Abramovich aware that former Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola wants to work at Chelsea when he returns to management next summer.Cech was furious after Chelsea's poor defensive display left them four points behind Manchester City.

Amid a flurry of expletives, another voice screamed that the display was 'rubbish - and you all know it'. Other comments that were overheard included the barb: 'Call yourself Champions League winners?' as passions spilled over. Di Matteo was calmness personified in front of the media a few moments later but back in the dressing room, he too had stomped around in a fashion that was seldom witnessed when he was in charge of West Bromwich.

Chelsea defender David Luiz was surely among those chastised by his colleagues, particularly over the embarrassing lack of discipline in his game. However, he at least had the good grace to admit what went on, saying: 'We were upset, it is normal. We are disappointed as we should have won this game.'

Bust up: Petr Cech was at the centre of a dressing room row during Saturday's defeat against West Brom

Blip: Chelsea have won only three of their previous seven games

Asked whether the cacophony of raised voices was the standard reaction, he added: 'Of course it's normal. This is a big club and you cannot lose games.' The failings in Chelsea's defence are now painfully apparent every time captain John Terry is absent. They miss not just his quality but his organisational ability, and have conceded an average of two goals in every game without him this season.
'Of course we miss him,' said Di Matteo. 'He's an important player. He gives us confidence at the back - and to the team in general.'

Di Matteo has promised to wield the axe for the Juventus game. Judged on their performances on Saturday alone, defender Luiz and misfiring striker Fernando Torres must be in line for a very public chop. 'It's not just an individual issue,' said the manager. 'As a team we have to defend better. You don't defend with one, you defend with the whole team.'

Tough luck: Di Matteo's former side West Brom survived a late barrage to claim all three points
​