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City pull out of race to sign Falcao leaving Chelsea favorites to land Colombian striker
By PAUL COLLINS PUBLISHED: 09:50 GMT, 18 November 2012 | UPDATED: 09:50 GMT, 18 November 2012
Chelsea look set to win the race to sign Atletico Madrid striker Rademel Falcao after rivals Manchester City turned down the chance to bid for the Colombian hitman.Cash-strapped Atletico were hoping that a bidding war between City and Chelsea would force up the price of a player who has a £28million release clause in his contract.Atletico Madrid General Manager Migel Angel Gil Marin and Falcao’s agent Jorge Mendes met with City’s new sporting director Txiki Begiristan after the Premier League champions’ 2-1 win over Spurs last Sunday.
Heading to the Bridge: Radamel Falcao is wanted by Chelsea
But according to The Sunday Mirror, both men arrived at the Etihad without receiving an invitation from City and were told that Roberto Mancini’s interest in Falcao would not be firmed up with an offer.City’s stance may change if they can offload Mario Balotelli in the upcoming transfer window, with PSG and both Milan clubs understood to be keen on the Italian international.Falcao, 26, scored 36 goals last season after being recruited to replace Sergio Aguero in a £35m deal.
Looking to strengthen: Roberto Di Matteo could turn to Falcao as Fernando Torres continues to struggle
Mancini feels his team lacks firepower despite the presence of Aguero, Balotelli, Carlos Tevez and Edin Dzeko in his squad.But Chelsea have an even greater need for a striker, with Fernando Torres still struggling.
AVB uses £5.99 coach's notepad but is there a page on what to do when you're down to 10 men during north London derby?
By SAM CUNNINGHAM PUBLISHED: 10:31 GMT, 19 November 2012 | UPDATED: 13:31 GMT, 19 November 2012
AVB does not settle for any old tatty notebook when it comes to working out Tottenham’s latest formation, or who should play up front. He actually uses one impressively labelled ‘Football Coaches Notepad’. It is described by one retailer as ‘the professional planning tool for all football coaches.’ It can be bought for only £5.99 from a website called precisiontraining.uk.com.
Taking note: Villas-Boas (left) consults his notepad during Saturday's defeat at Arsenal
Why is it so special?
Each double-page spread not only has one page with ruled lines to scribble notes on, the other has, wait for it, a football pitch diagram for accurate tactical drawings. There is a full-range of them, and it is not inconceivable that he has the full set with the ‘Football Session Planner’, ‘Football Coach Organiser’ and ‘Football Club Planner’. Rumour has it they are soon to bring out a ‘Players I want to sign Wishlist’...
How long has he used them for?
A long-time student of the game, AVB has been known for carrying a notebook around with him since his school days, in which he jotted ideas about tactics and statistics on players.
Under pressure: Tottenham have struggled in recent weeks
He and the pad go way back then?
It’s become something of a defence mechanism for him. Whenever his team are playing badly he always goes back to it for comfort — frantically thumbing through it or scribbling notes. Whether there was a page on Emmanuel Adebayor’s tackling technique remains to be seen...
So, he’s used it often this season then?
Yes, and he might want to revise some of his ideas – whatever it told him to do at 1.03pm on Saturday afternoon didn’t work. They were torn apart by Arsenal and conceded five goals. And he hasn’t appeared to make any notes that Spurs struggle when they play Jermain Defoe up front by himself, yet he’s done that regularly since he took charge with three attacking midfielders behind him.
Steal: The notepad can be bought for just £5.99
It is a bit unusual though, isn’t it?
The Portuguese is quite an obsessive character. When he was in charge at Chelsea he sometimes slept at the training ground in a Japanese-style sleeping pod and became a workaholic often working 12-hour days there. Some days he monitored the arrival time of players at training from the balcony of his office. He seems to like taking notes on everything. When he’s in training it’s not uncommon for him to be walking around with a clipboard.
Five-star: Arsenal made light work of Spurs
Are any other managers known for their pen and paper sideline antics?
Terry Connor, who took over as manager at Wolves at the end of last season, is known as ‘Clipboard Connor’. His didn’t work much either – they lost nine and drew four of his 13 games in charge while the club were relegated rock bottom of the league. He is yet to get another managerial post.
Breakthrough: Walcott moves a step closer to signing new Arsenal deal In-form forward offered improved salary and promised increased opportunities to play up front as both parties seek a swift end to protracted contract saga
Beckham to play final game for LA Galaxy in MLS Cup final The match against Houston Dynamo on December 1 is a chance for the former England captain to win a second straight championship before seeking "one last challenge"
Bale: Spirit will see Tottenham through rough patch The 23-year-old midfielder still believes that his side will be 'fine' this season despite Saturday's 5-2 defeat at the Emirates Stadium in the north London derby
Giroud pleased to 'mark territory' in Arsenal derby triumph The former Montpellier striker netted his seventh goal in Gunners colours in the 5-2 thrashing of north London rivals Tottenham, though he sympathises with goalkeeper Hugo Lloris
Ferguson reveals Kagawa still 'four weeks away' from Manchester United return After aggravating his original injury and being withdrawn at half-time against Braga in late October, the Japan star's "progress has been slow" and will not face Manchester City
Clattenburg left off Premier League referees’ list for fourth week in a row The controversy over allegedly racist remarks made to Chelsea midfielder Jon Obi Mikel rumbles on, as the official is left out of the action again while he awaits an FA verdict
Mario Balotelli’s brother Enoch has not signed for Salford, claims agent The Italian’s sibling reportedly penned a deal with the non-league club after he was spotted at training, but Giorgio Trimpani says his client was only maintaining fitness levels
Ronaldo returning to Manchester United is Ferguson's 'Christmas wish' The Portuguese star's unrest at Real Madrid is well-known, but his former manager at the Red Devils has jokingly described a return to Old Trafford as nothing more than a hope
Fellaini: Everton aiming for top-four finish The Belgium international still believes that his side can qualify for the Champions League this season, but insists that they must beat the likes of Reading if they are to do so
Juventus forward Bendtner is open to Arsenal return The Danish striker claims he feels 'mostly good things' for the north London club, but is unsure over where his long-term future lies after his loan deal with the Old Lady ends
Wenger: Tottenham victory will help rebuild confidence in 'special' Arsenal The Gunners’ boss believes that the 5-2 thrashing of their north London rivals in the Premier League on Saturday will inspire the squad to play with more consistency
Cabaye could be out until January, admits Newcastle boss Pardew The Magpies boss has revealed his team could be without their midfield maestro until New Year with a groin injury picked up during his international break with France
Pires: Podolski could become Arsenal legend Although the German has been inconsistent since joining the Gunners in the summer, the Frenchman is convinced that he has all the attributes to be a legend at the club
Liverpool goalkeeper Reina wants starting spot back after injury return The Spaniard featured for the first time since the start of October during the Reds’ 3-1 win over Wigan, and is keen to stay in Brendan Rodgers’ side for the foreseeable future
Liverpool's Reina unsurprised by Suarez interest The Uruguayan has been in impressive form so far this season despite the club's poor start, leading to reports he may be set for a big-money move away from Anfield in January
Tim Cahill keen on Everton loan return The New York Red Bulls midfielder is "eager" to come back to the Premier League on a temporary basis in between MLS seasons and says he misses playing in Merseyside derbies
Gallas: Banned Adebayor a big loss for Tottenham The French defender concerned that the three-match ban earned by the Togo international in Saturday's north London derby could have a detrimental effect on the team
Arsenal promote Akpom to Champions League ranks with view to senior call-up The 17-year-old has been rewarded for a string of impressive performances in the Gunners youth ranks with inclusion in their squad for Europe's premier club competition
Szczesny confident Tottenham victory can inspire Arsenal to Montpellier success The Gunners goalkeeper says that the squad is "buzzing" after victory in the north London derby and claims the important Champions League fixture could not come at a better time
Lewandowski: Henry was an example to follow The prolific attacker enjoyed watching the former Arsenal star in his Premier League years, and has hailed Dortmund coach Jurgen Klopp's energetic approach
Pirlo reveals he almost joined Chelsea over Juventus The Italy playmaker, now 33, has claimed that he almost followed former AC Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti to Stamford Bridge before joining the Old Lady in 2011
Cech: Chelsea defeat to Juventus a huge disappointment
The Blues keeper expresses his despondency at the fact that the club's Champions League progression is no longer in their own hands following a 3-0 humbling in Italy
Manchester United deserved more from Galatasaray clash, says Fletcher
The Red Devils put in a strong display against the Turkish champions but lost out to a Burak Yilmaz header and the Scot believes that his side merited at least a draw
Mourinho looking forward to England return
The Portuguese coach remembers his time in the Premier League fondly, and believes that Manchester City have all the quality to triumph on the Continent
Mertesacker enjoying life at Arsenal after overcoming ‘tough’ debut season
The Germany international endured a tricky first campaign in English football but looks to be getting to grips with the more physical style of play in the Premier League
Ukraine want Harry Redknapp for vacant coach post
After international legend Andriy Shevchenko turned down the position, the former Tottenham boss has emerged as the favourite following a meeting with the UFF on Tuesday
Lucas Leiva to step up Liverpool comeback with reserve outing
The Brazilian midfielder, who has been out for most of the season with a thigh injury, is in contention to play 45 minutes of the Reds' second string game against Middlesbrough
Wenger ready to risk losing Walcott on a free transfer
The Gunners boss plans to keep hold of the England international beyond the January transfer window, even if he fails to agree an extension on his existing contract
Tevez: I'll always pick Messi ahead of Ronaldo
Ahead of Manchester City's clash with Real Madrid, the Argentine says his former colleague is one of the world's best, but is still far short of the standard set by his compatriot
Capello believes under-fire Fernando Torres 'is slowly losing it'
The Italian thinks the misfiring Chelsea striker has been on a downward spiral since playing under Rafael Benitez at Liverpool and has also backed Juventus to beat the Blues
Balotelli can be as good as Messi and Ronaldo, insists Mancini
The Italian manager has claimed that his forward has the potential to be a footballing superstar, but needs to work hard more consistently in order to fulfill his potential
Liverpool interested in Sporting winger Jeffren, claims agent
According to the former Barcelona player's representative, the Merseysiders are one of a number of English clubs considering a move for the Spanish attacker
David Silva backs Messi for Ballon d'Or
The Spain attacker believes the 25-year-old deserves to be voted as the world's best player ahead of his rivals, though he would like to see a Spaniard rewarded for their form
Walcott out of Arsenal's Champions League clash against Montpellier with shoulder injury
The winger, along with Andre Santos, will miss Arsene Wenger's side's fixture against the French champions but Kieran Gibbs and Gervinho return
Gullit doubts Chelsea’s Champions League credentials
The former Blues' boss believes Roberto Di Matteo's remodelling of the team into a more attacking outfit will take time to settle in Europe, but is positive on a domestic front
Carragher: Suarez one of Liverpool's greatest strikers
The Reds stalwart has compared the Uruguay international to club top goalscorers Robbie Fowler, Michael Owen and Fernando Torres in terms with impact he has on the team's fortunes
Thierry Henry to train with Arsenal in December ahead of possible loan return
The New York Red Bulls striker will keep in shape at his former club during the MLS off-season as Gunners consider approaching him about a shock third spell at Emirates Stadium
Silva calls for patience in face of Champions League elimination
With early elimination from the competition almost certain for the Blues, the midfielder has highlighted the club's status as relative newcomers for a reason to remain grounded
Is a loan for Henry the best you can do? Wenger sets sights on THIRD move for Arsenal legend
By LAURA WILLIAMSON PUBLISHED: 23:08 GMT, 20 November 2012 | UPDATED: 08:27 GMT, 21 November 2012
Arsene Wenger may bring Thierry Henry back to Arsenal for a third spell. The club's all-time leading goalscorer has been training with the Gunners during the MLS off-season and Wenger said: 'Will I sign him in January? I don't rule it out. I don't know if he would be interested. He is sharp. He has practised with us three times.' The New York Red Bulls striker, 35, scored twice during his seven-game loan spell last season, including a storybook winner against Leeds United in January in the FA Cup on his return to the club he served from 1999 to 2007.
Fancy seeing you here: Wenger has refused to rule out re-signing Henry
Henry is currently on holiday after returning to London to see his family and watch Arsenal's 5-2 victory over Tottenham. Wenger said he would make a decision in January but admitted it was a tempting prospect given Henry's qualities and the fact Arsenal will be 'short' of strikers in the new year owing to the Africa Cup of Nations. The Arsenal manager said: 'You know what Thierry gives you: he gives you hope, especially when he comes on (as a substitute). That is the most important thing.
All smiles: The Arsenal boss appeared in relaxed spirits ahead of his side's clash with Montpellier
'He is a communicator, an extrovert and very intelligent. I had always resisted (bringing him back). Last year I did it because we lost Gervinho. This year we lose Gervinho again as they are playing the Africa Cup of Nations two years in a row. So we will be confronted with a shortage - particularly if (Marouane) Chamakh should go. Then we will be short.'David Beckham, who will play his final game for LA Galaxy on December 1, has trained with Arsenal before but Wenger ruled out a move for the former England captain.'To sign Beckham, Thierry Henry and Sol Campbell?' said the Arsenal boss. 'We had a staff game today: they could have played with us!'
No holding back: Henry is training with Arsenal during the MLS off-season
Wenger was in an upbeat mood, buoyed by Saturday's result against Tottenham and the return of Gervinho and Kieran Gibbs, who have recovered from ankle and thigh injuries respectively, for tonight's Champions League match against Montpellier. Theo Walcott, however, is unavailable after straining his shoulder at the weekend, while Andre Santos is out with an abdominal injury. Arsenal cannot afford to drop more points at home having already lost 2-0 to Schalke this season. Montpellier are bottom of the group with just one point from four games.
In training: Jack Wilshere leads the Arsenal squad as they prepare for Wednesday night's clash
Welcome back: Gervinho has returned to the Arsenal squad after missing the Tottenham game through injury
Defender Per Mertesacker said: 'We have to get good results now - there is no space for weak games or for another home defeat. 'We have to qualify for the next stage as Arsenal have done in previous years.' Mertesacker, 28, admitted he found his first season with Arsenal 'difficult' as he struggled to get used to the physicality of English football, but insisted he has now got used to playing in the Premier League. The German said: 'Now I feel much more comfortable with the situation, the season and opponents and with our team as well; with the game we play.'
Villas-Boas to be handed £20m to pursue Willian, Moutinho, Dzagoev or Eriksen in January
By SAMI MOKBEL PUBLISHED: 23:09 GMT, 20 November 2012 | UPDATED: 23:09 GMT, 20 November 2012
Andre Villas-Boas will be handed £20million to revive Tottenham's faltering Champions League ambitions.Spurs have lost four of their last five Premier League games, a sequence that has cast serious doubt over their top four chances.But chairman Daniel Levy will make significant funds available in the January transfer window, knowing the current squad needs strengthening.
Wanted man: Shakhtar's Willian is top of Andre Villas-Boas' hitlist
Villas-Boas wants to sign a left-back, central attacking midfielder and a striker at the turn of the year, with Willian, Miralem Pjanic, Christian Eriksen, Alex Dzagoev and Joao Moutinho all on the hitlist.Tottenham's chosen agents have already begun work on trying to lure the club's top targets to London. Levy's decision to give Villas-Boas money to spend in January will come as a major boost to the Portuguese who is starting to come under pressure due to his side's sorry run. Meanwhile, Tottenham will revive their attempts to sell defender Michael Dawson in January.Villas-Boas tried to offload the defender during the summer transfer window, but moves to Stoke and Queens Park Rangers failed to materialise.
Not bad either: Porto's Joao Moutinho is also being mooted
Gift: The Tottenham manager has been handed £20million to pursue his targets
Posted on 21/11/2012 at 17:02, updated on 21/11/2012 at 17:18
Chelsea have announced the departure of manager Roberto Di Matteo following a Champions League defeat to Juventus.
Di Matteo was given the job on a permanent basis in the summer after leading Chelsea to an unexpected first Champions League triumph but a 3-0 loss in Turin, following a run of only two wins in seven games in all competitions, has brought a swift end to his reign.
A club statement read: "Chelsea Football Club has parted company this morning with manager Roberto Di Matteo.
"The team's recent performances and results have not been good enough and the owner and the Board felt that a change was necessary now to keep the club moving in the right direction as we head into a vitally important part of the season.
"The club faces a difficult task ahead in qualifying for the knockout stages of the UEFA Champions League as well as maintaining a strong challenge for the top of the Premier League while competing in three other cup competitions. Our aim is to remain as competitive as possible and challenge strongly on all fronts.
"The owner and the board would like to thank Roberto for all he has done for the club since taking over in March. Roberto helped guide us to an historic Champions League victory and a seventh FA Cup. We will never forget the huge contribution he has made to this club's history and he will always be welcome at Stamford Bridge.
"The club will be making an announcement shortly regarding a new first team manager."
Di Matteo hinted after the loss to Juve that any questions over his future should be put to Abramovich, not him.
"At the moment, I think, with the team, we are all in it together," he said. "I'm responsible for the results and at the moment I am here and I think I will be for the future.
"But that question [about my future] is probably not one you should ask me. As far as I'm concerned, I'll keep working. But I'm responsible for the result. I'm responsible for the performance.
"It's a negative evening for us – a big disappointment for us, for the team, for the club. If anyone has to take the blame, it's me. I selected a team I was convinced was the right team to win against Juventus, or get at least a draw, so the blame belongs to me."
Abramovich is reportedly willing to offer Spaniard Rafa Benitez - who has been out of work since leaving Internazionale in 2010 - a deal until the end of the season. Benitez won the Champions League with Liverpool in 2005 and reached the final in 2007.
Abramovich is believed to want to install former Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola as permanent boss when his year-long sabbatical in New York comes to an end in the summer, and Benitez would appear to be the perfect stop-gap.
Di Matteo had overseen a change in playing style this season, with three attacking midfielders - usually summer signings Eden Hazard and Oscar, plus Spain star Juan Mata - employed behind a striker, with £50 million Fernando Torres finally the undisputed first choice following the exit of Didier Drogba.
However the Italian, a former playing star at Stamford Bridge, left out Torres on Tuesday, effectively playing without a front man - a bold move that backfired.
Abramovich has a trigger-happy reputation. He sacked Avram Grant after the Israeli led Chelsea to the 2008 Champions League final then disposed of his replacement Luiz Felipe Scolari after less than a season in charge following public criticism from the players.
Guus Hiddink came in on a temporary basis - alongside his duties as Russia coach - and won the Double before returning to his national job full-time.
Carlo Ancelotti was the oligarch's next victim before Andre Villas-Boas - who had enjoyed a sensational debut season with Porto, romping to the league title and winning the Portuguese Cup and Europa League - came in to instigate a change to the more fluent style that Abramovich craved.
However he also fell out with the veteran players at Chelsea, lasting only nine months before the axe fell - and Di Matteo steadied the ship, taking a more pragmatic Chelsea to that famous European triumph in Munich against Bayern.
Benitez was approached about taking over from Villas-Boas, but was unwilling to do so at that time.
The 52-year-old former Liverpool and Inter manager takes charge of the Blues until the end of the season following the sacking of Roberto Di Matteo on Wednesday morning
Nov 21, 2012 7:32:00 PM
By Jay Jaffa
Rafael Benitez has been confirmed as Chelsea's new manager, after the club sacked Roberto Di Matteo in the aftermath of Tuesday's 3-0 Champions League defeat to Juventus.
The 52-year-old takes charge of the European champions on an interim basis until the end of the current campaign after spending almost two years out of work following his dismissal at Inter.
A statement on the club's official website read: "The owner and the Board believe that in Benitez we have a manager with significant experience at the highest level of football, who can come in and immediately help deliver our objectives.
"The 52-year-old Spaniard is due to meet the players at the training ground in Cobham tomorrow [Thursday]."
Benitez will take charge of his second Premier League club after a successful six-year spell at Liverpool between 2004 and 2010.
His time on Merseyside led to success in Europe as he won the club's fifth European Cup in his second season in 2005, while he also secured the FA Cup a year later.
Roman Abramovich relieved Di Matteo of his duties on Wednesday morning despite the Italian guiding the club to their maiden Champions League trophy and a seventh FA Cup last season.
Di Matteo signed a two-year deal in the summer, but has seen his position questioned almost continually since with Pep Guardiola thought to wanted by the Russian oligarch to lead the club.
Benitez becomes the ninth Blues manager in nine years in the Abramovich era.
I'd never take the Chelsea job: the words from 2007 that have come back to haunt Benitez (and don't get him started on the blue flags)
By CHRIS WHEELER PUBLISHED: 11:57 GMT, 22 November 2012 | UPDATED: 13:52 GMT, 22 November 2012
Wherever they go we’ll follow our team, For we are the Chelsea and we are supreme,
We'll never be mastered by no northern b******s, And we'll keep the blue flag flying high,
Flying high, up in the sky, We'll keep the blue flag flying high,
From Stamford Bridge to Wemb(er)ley, We'll keep the blue flag flying high.
Rafael Benitez may not be too familiar with the song but he certainly knows all about the pride Chelsea place in their flags on those Champions League nights.So when the club’s new interim boss arrives at the Bridge today desperately needing to build a few of his own, Benitez might struggle to explain comments he made in the past about Chelsea.
Flag wavers: Chelsea fans wave their flags prior to a game at Stamford Bridge
I'll never take that job: Rafael Benitez said he would never manage Chelsea out of respect for Liverpool
For instance, how’s he going to explain this one from five years ago? ‘Chelsea is a big club with fantastic players, every manager wants to coach a such a big team,’ said the Spaniard. ‘But I would never take that job, in respect for my former team at Liverpool, no matter what. For me there is only club in England, and that’s Liverpool.’ They loved him at Anfield and Benitez loves them too (he still lives on Merseyside more than two years after leaving Liverpool) which makes it all the more difficult to picture him in charge at Stamford Bridge.
And in 2007 before one of many epic European clashes between Liverpool and Chelsea, Benitez made a comment that was so popular at Anfield that they stuck the words on a plaque and put it on the training ground wall.‘We don’t need to give away flags for our fans to wave – our supporters are always there with their hearts, and that is all we need. It’s the passion of the fans that helps to win matches – not flags.’
Other versions of this quote refer to ‘stupid plastic flags’ and end with the words ‘Chelsea fans lack passion’, but that will be largely academic when Benitez walks out at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.‘I will never forgive him for the statement,’ posted one Chelsea supporter this week. ‘Don’t forget your plastic flag at the weekend!’ wrote another.
Hitting out: Benitez made a comment about Chelsea fans and their support that was made into a plaque and hung at Liverpool's Mellwood training ground
Not a fan: Benitez hit out at Chelsea fans and their flags
No-one has got under Chelsea’s skin quite like Benitez, which makes his appointment all the more baffling in the wake of the decision to axe Roberto Di Matteo.EXPLAIN THIS THEN, RAFA
'If Chelsea are naive and pure then I'm Little Red Riding Hood.' (2007)
'I'm sure Chelsea do not like playing Liverpool. When they are talking and talking and talking before the game it means they are worried. Maybe they're afraid?'
'We were good friends until Liverpool started winning, then he started changing his mind.' (on rival Jose Mourinho)
'To me, Arsenal played much better football two or three years ago. They won matches and were exciting to watch. They create excitement so how can you say Chelsea are the best in the world?' (after Chelsea's first Premier League title win)
'After the game, Sheila, who was sitting right in line, said to me that the ball had crossed the line. She is a very honest person and that was good enough for me. It was a goal.' (on taking his secretary's word that Luis Garcia's 'ghost goal' had crossed the line in the 2005 semi-final)
His six years at Anfield saw Liverpool face Chelsea in the Champions League five years in a row – including three semi-finals – as well as a League Cup Final and an FA Cup semi-final.They produced enough controversy, bad blood and, yes, barbed comments to make Benitez’s mission an almost impossible one even before he has walked through the door.
There was that ‘fact’ rant at Sir Alex Ferguson and the time he upset Everton by referring to them as ‘a small club’, but Chelsea and Jose Mourinho became a particular hobby horse.When asked about his relationship with the Special One, who twice refused to shake his hand after games between the two clubs, Benitez said: ‘We were good friends until Liverpool started winning, then he started changing his mind.’
Nothing got to Mourinho more than what he has always called the ‘ghost goal’ from Luis Garcia that saw Liverpool knock Chelsea out of the Champions League semi-final in 2005 en route to glory in Istanbul.Benitez risked further infuriating Chelsea and their manager by insisting the ball had crossed the line – on the say-so of his secretary Sheila.
Head to head: When in charge of Liverpool, Benitez and Chelsea's Jose Mourinho had plenty of battles
‘After the game Sheila, who was sitting right in line in the main stand, said to me that the ball had crossed the line,’ said Benitez. ‘She is a very honest person and that was good enough for me. It was a goal.’
The former Valencia boss has always been reluctant to credit Chelsea and Mourinho for their successes, instead making pointed references to the financial might behind them.‘We know Chelsea are a very good team,’ Benitez once said. ‘In the last five years they have spent big money on players.’
It crossed the line: Benitez angered Chelsea fans when he said that Luis Garcia 'ghost goal' in the Champions League semi final crossed the line - say-so of his secretary Sheila
After Mourinho helped Chelsea to their first Premier League title in 2004-05, Benitez merely criticised their lack of flair, saying: ‘To me, Arsenal played much better football two or three years ago. They won matches and were exciting to watch.‘Barcelona and Milan too. They create excitement so how can you say Chelsea are the best in the world?’
No thanks: Chelsea fan protested when Rafa Benitez was linked in March
Another barb followed before Liverpool knocked Chelsea out of the 2007 Champions League semi-final.‘I’m sure Chelsea do not like playing Liverpool,’ goaded Benitez. ‘When they are talking and talking and talking before the game it means they are worried. Maybe they’re afraid?’ And as they prepared to meet in the final four once again a year later, Benitez upset his opponents and striker Didier Drogba by revealing that he had put together a four-year dossier on the player’s diving antics.
Back to his best? Will Benitez be able to get the best from £50m striker Fernando Torres as he did at Liverpool?
Given Drogba’s cult status at Stamford Bridge and the fact that Chelsea are now weighing up the possibility of bringing him back on an emergency loan from his Chinese club Shanghai Shenhua, it’s one of several issues that threaten to make life rather uncomfortable for Benitez. It should be an interesting few months in west London.
OTHER MANAGERS WHO HAVE FACED MISSION IMPOSSIBLE
ALEX McLEISH (Aston Villa 2011-12)
Furious Villa fans staged protests when McLeish was appointed, not least because he had just been relegated with bitter rivals Birmingham playing a less-than-attractive style of football and then informed his club by email that he was quitting. Did Villa owner Randy Lerner know something we didn’t? No. Villa played a less-than-attractive style of football, McLeish became statistically their worst manager on record and was sacked as soon as the season ended.
GEORGE GRAHAM (Tottenham 1998-2001)
Like McLeish, Graham was hardly renowned for being an exponent of the beautiful game. He also had a very long association with Arsenal.
Graham led Spurs to their first trophy in eight seasons by winning the 1999 League Cup against Leicester, but they failed to finish higher than 10th in the table.
He was sacked in March 2001 for complaining about lack of transfer funds (not surprising given that he blew £11million on Sergey Rebrov) but claimed that new owners ENIC were merely looking for an excuse to get rid of him.
HARRY REDKNAPP (Southampton 2004-05)
Another manager who tried to cross the great divide and fell flat on his face.
Having quit his job at Portsmouth over the decision of Milan Mandaric to appoint Velimir Zajec as director of football, ‘Arry made the hugely controversial decision to take over at South Coast enemy Southampton in mid-season.
Redknapp was challenged with saving the Saints from relegation but failed and they went down for the first time in 27 years. Chairman Rupert Lowe must have known what was coming when he added England’s World Cup winning coach Sir Clive Woodward to his staff. Redknapp quit and went back to Pompey.
GARY MEGSON (Bolton 2007-09)
When Big Sam Allardyce left Bolton in 2007, they had some big shoes to fill and Megson never felt like the man to do it. He kept Wanderers in the Premier League and for a while was lauded as their ‘Ginger Mourinho’ but it was never going to last.
After he was put on gardening leave in December 2009, Megson admitted that he was fighting a losing battle to win the fans over. ‘I liked Bolton as a club, but the fans didn’t like me,’ he said recently. ‘I don’t particularly like them either!’
He won Abramovich the Champions League but was repeatedly told to play Torres: The real story behind Di Matteo's brutal sacking
Suffocated by Abramovich's diktat on always playing Torres
Wrestling to control a volatile and powerful dressing room
Constantly distracted by the racism dispute with Clattenburg
By NEIL ASHTON PUBLISHED: 23:41 GMT, 21 November 2012 | UPDATED: 07:24 GMT, 22 November 2012
When Roberto Di Matteo named his team at Turin’s luxurious Golden Palace Hotel on Tuesday lunchtime, it was a final act of defiance.Fernando Torres paid for his pitiful performance at West Bromwich on Saturday and Di Matteo knew the evening would end in yet another change in personnel. On this occasion, in the office of the Chelsea manager. But Di Matteo sensed the end was coming long before his 42nd and last game in charge. As early as last summer, when he dared question the strength of Torres’ ambition at Chelsea, the European Cup-winning coach was left in no doubt about who is actually in charge at Stamford Bridge.
The beginning of a remarkable journey: Roberto Di Matteo clutches Branislav Ivanovic and Fernando Torres after seeing off the challenge of Napoli in last year's Champions League
He told you so: How Neil Ashton broke the story in Wednesday's Sportsmail
When he was finally appointed ‘manager and first-team coach’, 25 days after landing club football’s greatest prize in Munich’s Allianz Arena, Di Matteo presented Roman Abramovich with a list of summer transfer targets. Radamel Falcao, the free-scoring striker with 36 goals in 50 appearances for Atletico Madrid in his first season in Spain, was at the top of it.
But before Chelsea’s manager could even make a case for the Colombian striker he was cut short. Abramovich told him he already had a world-class finisher and the message was clear: Torres was to play. It was a message that was repeated on an almost daily basis.
That was life at Chelsea for Di Matteo, operating under almost intolerable conditions long before he axed Torres ahead of the shocking 3-0 defeat against Juventus. He knew he had to select Torres. It was the owner’s wish. But he also knew there were problems using Torres when the players Abramovich had brought in did not suit the Spaniard’s style of play.
A round peg in a square hole: Torres is said to be unhappy and Chelsea and his attributes do not suit the club's style of play
Di Matteo had run the analysis on Torres, asking the club’s technical team for a breakdown of the 81 goals he scored for Liverpool before his move south to London. When Di Matteo went through the detail, a worrying pattern emerged that convinced him Chelsea did not have the personnel to accommodate his game.At Anfield, 56 of his goals (69 per cent) were engineered by defence-splitting passes, usually from Steven Gerrard or Xabi Alonso. At Chelsea, players like Juan Mata, Frank Lampard, Ramires and John Mikel Obi — together with new arrivals Oscar and Eden Hazard – preferred to pass their way through the opposition. They did not spring opposition defences and Di Matteo was already beginning to doubt whether Torres was committed to the Chelsea project.
Di Matteo’s relationship with technical director Michael Emenalo was already strained, but it was stretched to the limit by the pressure to get Torres among the goalscorers. Some sympathised, but others were openly questioning the motivation of a striker who was once regarded as the best finisher in world football.
Over bar the shouting: Di Matteo patrols the touchline at the Juventus Stadium, aware that his time at Chelsea is up
Upstairs in his office at the club’s Cobham training centre and puffing on cigarettes out on the balcony, Di Matteo frequently discussed Torres’ form with assistants Eddie Newton and Steve Holland.
It hardly helped that the £50million striker had confided in team-mates that he was unhappy at the club, even saying as much to a Spanish journalist on the night Chelsea lifted the European Cup. But a new season amounted to a new start for Di Matteo and Abramovich was quick to apply the same approval index rating he uses to judge every manager — Champions League progress. The day after Chelsea drew 2-2 with Juventus in the opening fixture in Group E, when goals from Arturo Vidal and Fabio Quagliarella secured a point for the Italians, Abramovich arrived unannounced at the training ground. He asked Di Matteo, his coaching staff and some of the players if they still had the desire for another crack at the competition after last season’s incredible triumph. By 3am on Wednesday, Di Matteo was clearing the decks of his spacious office after being sacked at the training ground by chairman Bruce Buck and chief executive Ron Gourlay, just over an hour after they arrived back from defeat in Turin.
The man of the moment: Six months ago, Di Matteo steered Chelsea to their first European Cup
He knew it was coming, saying farewell and shaking hands with the players in the dressing room at the Juventus Stadium.
The incredible stats
£86m: Chelsea have spent approximately £86million since 2004 in compensation for managers — more than Everton’s entire net spend since the Premier League began.
8 months: The average life span for a manager under Abramovich. Only Mourinho and Ancelotti lasted more than a year.
9: Abramovich has now had as many managers in his nine-year reign as United have had since 1937.
7: Chelsea have sacked seven managers since 2005 and won seven trophies.
These were private moments and a significant number of the team apologised to Di Matteo for failing to recreate the spirit that led to FA Cup and European glory last season. Three days earlier, in the dressing room at The Hawthorns, the fingers had been pointed by the players in a post-match inquest following the 2-1 defeat. It sounded explosive. Holland, the assistant manager, had arrived at the ground with a black eye and a cut underneath his left cheek. After the fireworks that followed the final whistle, it is a wonder there were no further casualties.
Chelsea’s season was beginning to fall apart and the situation was irretrievable even then. Abramovich had to be talked out of firing Di Matteo on Saturday by his close circle of advisors, but the Champions League clash with Juve was the tipping point. On Sunday the players came in for a warm-down at Cobham and flew on a delayed flight to Turin on Monday after Di Matteo held a short meeting with coaching staff.
The impossible job: Di Matteo takes charge of his final Chelsea training session in Turin
In Turin, Chelsea’s players picked up on Di Matteo’s distress and it transmitted to the squad in a subdued and sometimes directionless training session at Juve’s stadium on Monday evening. They knew he was about to make a tactical switch, but the message was muddled and there was uncertainty among the players as they chatted in hushed tones over dinner in the team hotel. In the team meeting at lunchtime on Tuesday, when Di Matteo announced that Hazard would play up front instead of Torres, this was met with the tacit approval of many of the players.
On the field they failed spectacularly, however, and Di Matteo, who spent 45 minutes talking to his Italian advisor in the tunnel after the defeat, knew the game was up. As they all got on the airport bus which delivered them to their Titan Airways flight — which finally took off at 1.45am from northern Italy — the atmosphere was tense. By that point Di Matteo and Newton, both in sharp, grey suits, were hanging on for grim life as the bus, with Buck and Gourlay in attendance, made the short trip to the aircraft steps.
Ruthless: Roman Abramovich wielded the axe for the seventh time since 2005
Ashley Cole giggled a couple of times. Petr Cech, a decent guy, made small talk with the kit men. Torres, who was reading a book entitled Leyenda (Legend) on the trip out to Turin, fiddled with his phone. Di Matteo knew that his number was up, unable to motivate a striker who has scored just four goals in the Barclays Premier League this season. Even Torres’ solitary Champions League strike was a fluke, a ricochet that somehow rebounded into the net of Andriy Pyatov in the 3-2 victory over Shakhtar Donetsk on November 7.
Undoubtedly Di Matteo under-estimated the owner’s obsession with winning silverware. Abramovich has not forgotten Jose Mourinho gesturing to him at Wembley, counting the trophies with his fingers when Chelsea won the FA Cup in 2007.
Chelsea started this season with a chance to win seven trophies, but the champions of Europe had already surrendered the Community Shield against Manchester City and were soundly beaten by Atletico Madrid in the Super Cup in Monaco. Abramovich, who rarely travels to away games because he does not like to conform to stuffy boardroom etiquette by wearing a suit, became increasingly agitated as Di Matteo’s summer target finished them off with a hat-trick.
Di Matteo’s team were also adjusting to a refined playing system as they encouraged Cech to throw the ball out to his back four instead of launching it forward from his penalty area. Off the field Di Matteo skilfully and diplomatically handled delicate situations, especially after John Terry was banned by the FA for four games and fined £220,000 for racially insulting Anton Ferdinand.
The incident did not even happen on Di Matteo’s watch — Andre Villas-Boas was manager at the time — but the Italian attempted to protect the reputation of the club. Even last Sunday, his preparations for the trip to Turin were disrupted when Ashley Cole was unexpectedly called to an interview with the FA over the allegations against referee Mark Clattenburg. Suddenly the FA’s compliance team were swarming all over the training ground again, taking Mikel, Ramires and Juan Mata into neutralised zones for hours of taped interviews.
Casting a shadow: Di Matteo felt the race row, involving referee Mark Clattenburg (centre) and John Mikel Obi (right) had an impact on recent results
Di Matteo has deep reservations about Chelsea’s complaint, and, naturally, believes that it has affected their recent results. They made the allegation two hours after they were beaten 3-2 at Stamford Bridge by Manchester United, finishing the game with nine men after the dismissals of Torres and Branislav Ivanovic. Since then they have picked up two points from the last 12 in the Premier League and require something of a miracle to avoid the humiliation of exiting the group stage of the Champions League.
That brutal reality dawned on Di Matteo when Chelsea arrived back at the training ground in the dead of night after the Turin trip. Torres was one of the first off the bus, jumping straight into his car and slipping on his tracksuit top to beat the near-freezing temperatures. By then, Di Matteo knew it was time to get his coat.
FIFA block Drogba's request to rejoin Chelsea on emergency loan as veteran hitman bids to build up to African Cup of Nations
By DAVID KENT PUBLISHED: 15:42 GMT, 22 November 2012 | UPDATED: 15:42 GMT, 22 November 2012
FIFA has denied Didier Drogba’s request for special permission to leave Shanghai Shenhua on loan ahead of the official transfer period, ending speculation he could join former club Chelsea immediately. FIFA says it informed Drogba he won’t be exempted from international transfer rules while under contract with the Chinese Super League club, whose season ended this month. Drogba, whose contract expires in 2014, can join another club on a permanent or temporary deal on January 1.
Come back? Didier Drogba wants to move on loan to prepare for the African Cup of Nations
The 34-year-old Ivory Coast captain hoped to play extra matches to prepare for the African Cup of Nations, which kicks off January 19 in South Africa. FIFA upheld its rules in previous cases when making Major League Soccer players David Beckham, Thierry Henry and Landon Donovan wait until January to make loan moves. Drogba is an iconic figure in Chelsea history and was back at Stamford Bridge on November 11 to see his old team draw 1-1 with Liverpool.
Flying visit: Didier Drogba made a visit to Chelsea's Cobham training base back in August and was pictured with John Mikel Obi, Fernando Torres and Branislav Ivanovic
Chelsea appeared to be missing his powerful presence Tuesday in a 3-0 loss to Juventus in the Champions League, which led to manager Roberto Di Matteo being sacked early Wednesday.Speaking earlier this month, Drogba indicated that he would be keen to return to Chelsea to train ahead of the tournament, but not play. He said: 'If everyone agrees, it is possible I will go and train there until the African Cup starts. But that is all it will be.'
Crowning glory: Didier Drogba won the Champions League with Chelsea in his final game for the club
The Ivorian is not the only former striker looking return to the Premier League on a short-term deal. Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger refused to rule out a second loan move for New York Red Bulls striker Henry.Wenger said he would make a decision in January but admitted it was a tempting prospect given Henry's qualities and the fact Arsenal will be 'short' of strikers in the new year owing to the Africa Cup of Nations.
Fancy seeing you here: Wenger has refused to rule out re-signing Henry
The Arsenal manager said: 'You know what Thierry gives you: he gives you hope, especially when he comes on (as a substitute). That is the most important thing.'He is a communicator, an extrovert and very intelligent. I had always resisted (bringing him back). Last year I did it because we lost Gervinho.'This year we lose Gervinho again as they are playing the Africa Cup of Nations two years in a row. So we will be confronted with a shortage - particularly if (Marouane) Chamakh should go. Then we will be short.'
SACKED! QPR finally fire Hughes as Redknapp is handed reins (but not until after trip to United)
By NEIL ASHTON PUBLISHED: 10:59 GMT, 23 November 2012 | UPDATED: 11:46 GMT, 23 November 2012
Mark Hughes has been sacked as manager of QPR - and Harry Redknapp has been appointed as his replacement.Hughes's assistant manager Mark Bowen will take Rangers, winless and rock-bottom of the Barclays Premier League, to Old Trafford tomorrow with former Tottenham boss Redknapp in the stands.Redknapp will take formal charge of the team on Sunday.
Fury: Fans turned on Hughes following the defeat to Southampton at home, his final game before being sacked today
WITH HARRY THERE'S HOPE
QPR are the only team out of 92 league clubs yet to win a match this season.
But Harry has performed miracles before.
When he took over from Juande Ramos at Tottenham the team had only two points and his only brief was to stop them slipping them into the Championship. He managed to finish in eighth place that very season, and took Tottenham to the Champions League two years later.
Hughes's position has been hanging in the balance all week after defeat to Southampton at Loftus Road, a match dubbed 'El Sackico'.The former Manchester United striker had been preparing his team for the clash at Manchester United with the expectation that he would be on the touchline. However, owner Tony Fernandes finally snapped this morning, showing Hughes, who had replaced, Neil Warnock the door after 10 months. A club statement this morning said the Rangers board were now looking to appoint a replacement as soon as possible, however Sportsmail is able to confirm that Redknapp is the new manager. The club's statement read: 'Queens Park Rangers Football Club has today (Friday) terminated the contract of manager Mark Hughes with immediate effect.
'This decision has been taken after careful consideration by the Board of Directors, following numerous meetings over the last few days.
The boss men: Redknapp (left) will take charge on Sunday, while Bowen (right) will be in charge of the QPR team for the trip to Manchester United tomorrow
On the brink: Mark Hughes took QPR training this week before being axed this morning
Cracked: Tony Fernandes wanted to keep hold of Hughes, but finally snapped
'The Board of Directors wish to thank Mark for his commitment, hard work and dedication in his ten months in charge. 'Mark has shown integrity and professionalism throughout his time here, but ultimately the circumstances we find ourselves in have left the Board of Directors with very little choice but to make a change. 'The Board will now be working actively to put a new managerial structure in place as soon as possible.'Mark Bowen and Eddie Niedzwiecki will take charge of the R's trip to Manchester United in the Barclays Premier League on Saturday afternoon. 'The club will be making a further announcement in due course.'
Former QPR winger Richard Langley told BBC Radio 5live: 'The frustration has been brewing and the main thing is they've got such a talented squad at the moment and the results haven't been coming so you can understand the frustrations at the club. They haven't been playing as a team.'Hughes has been walking a tightrope since QPR lost at Arsenal on October 27. Fernandes was set to sack him then but had a change of heart and has tried to support him.They have not won all season but have an easier run of fixtures coming - and Redknapp will be licking his lips at that prospect. The former Southampton and Portsmouth manager, who was snubbed by England after Fabio Capello left his post, will eagerly look forward to a new year clash with Tottenham, his most recent club.
More to follow....DATES FOR HARRY'S DIARY...
Harry Redknapp will face his old club Tottenham for the first time as QPR manager on Monday, January 14 at 8pm.
Wenger targets January striker move but remains undecided on Henry Arsenal return
The 63-year-old manager is looking to bringing in a forward with Gervinho set to play at the Africa Cup of Nations, and refused to rule out a loan move for the Gunners legend
Teixeira & Nacho setting sights on Liverpool first team
Following the success of academy graduates Raheem Sterling and Suso this season, the young pair hope to also be handed an opportunity by Reds boss Brendan Rodgers
Chelsea job not a poisoned chalice, insists Sidwell
Roberto Di Matteo has become the seventh victim of Roman Abramovich's axe, but the former Blues midfielder insists the club supports its players and staff
Boudewijn Zenden to be appointed as Benitez's assistant at Chelsea, claims agent
The 36-year-old looks set to join his former boss at Stamford Bridge, with the club moving quickly to set up a new management structure in the wake of Roberto Di Matteo's sacking
Allardyce keen on luring Beckham to West Ham
The Hammers boss admits he would welcome the former England international at Upton Park, but only if the 37-year-old could prove his ability to perform in the Premier League
I will not change approach to avoid injury, says Manchester United defender Phil Jones
The 20-year-old has been confined to the treatment table after surgery on a knee problem, but returned to first-team action against Galatasaray on Tuesday evening
New York Red Bulls chief Roxburgh may block Henry's Arsenal return
The former Scotland manager believes the Gunners legend needs to rest rather than attempt to secure a loan move away from the club during the off-season for a second time
Chelsea fans don't deserve misunderstood genius Benitez
The Spaniard's appointment on an interim basis has been widely criticised by Blues supporters who fail to see that they have a captured a unique managerial talent
Ravel Morrison pondering international future with Jamaica
The West Ham-owned midfielder has represented England up to Under-18 level but could pledge his allegiance to the nation of his mother after impressing on loan at Birmingham City
Schalke general manager dismisses Huntelaar Arsenal link
As speculation continues linking the Dutchman to a move to the Emirates, the Konigsblauen are keen to reject any move for the striker away from the Veltins Arena
Fines will not prevent racist chanting, insists Villas-Boas
Tottenham travel to Rome for Thursday's Europa League match against Lazio and the Portuguese coach is hoping that the Italian fans do not repeat their White Hart Lane behaviour
Di Matteo 'honoured' to manage Chelsea after sacking
The Italian has issued a statement through the League Managers' Association and lists last season's Champions League win with the club as the finest achievement of his career
Manchester City set to win race to sign 'Balkan Messi' Alen Halilovic
The Premier League champions are closing in on a deal that would see the 16-year-old move to the Etihad Stadium from Dinamo Zagreb in a deal that could rise to €11.1 million
Frimpong hoping to kick-start Arsenal career at Charlton
The Ghanaian midfielder has joined the Addicks until New Year's Day and hopes the move will provide him with a platform to stake a claim for a return to the Gunners' first team
Kaizer Chiefs deny talks to sign David Beckham
The South African club insist they have had no contact with the player’s representatives after he announced his intention to leave LA Galaxy after next week's MLS Cup final
Grateful Rodgers thanks Liverpool board for patience
The 39-year-old is delighted at the club's commitment to his long-term vision, but understands that managers must be quickly successful following Roberto Di Matteo's sacking
Di Matteo dismissal no surprise to Villas-Boas
The former Chelsea manager insists he wasn't shocked to learn of the Italian's sacking but believes the Champions League winner boasts one of the best CVs in world football
Fifa president Sepp Blatter announces €391,710 grant for St George’s Park
FA chairman David Bernstein hopes the funding will help to improve their relationship with Fifa following disagreements over presidential elections and the 2018 World Cup bid
Benitez appointment leaves Chelsea fans furious with out-of-touch club
The former Liverpool boss is the antithesis of what Blues followers want from a manager, while supporters remain furious over the treatment of club legend Roberto Di Matteo
Benitez confirmed as new Chelsea boss
The 52-year-old former Liverpool and Inter manager takes charge of the Blues until the end of the season following the sacking of Roberto Di Matteo on Wednesday morning
Redknapp backs Benitez to win over Chelsea fans with Manchester City victory
The appointment of the Spaniard has caused a few raised eyebrows among the Blues' faithful, but the former Tottenham boss believes he has the ability to reinvigorate their season
'Benitez is very lucky' - Sir Alex's jibe towards new Chelsea boss
The Red Devils boss feels Roberto Di Matteo deserved the chance to lead Chelsea to the World Club Cup in Japan next month as the Spaniard 'had nothing to do with the team'
QPR sack Mark Hughes
The former Manchester City manager has had his contract at Loftus Road terminated after the club recorded the joint-worst start in a Premier League season, remaining winless
'You have to commit' - Wenger urges Walcott to pen new Arsenal deal
With the winger hesitating on a €93,000-a-week offer, the Gunners boss is hoping for a breakthrough soon as he cannot feel 'completely at ease' at the club until he does
'If you worry too much you're going to get another heart attack!' - Relaxed Muamba enjoying retirement
The former Bolton midfielder was forced to retire from the game after his heart attack earlier in the year but appears to be adjusting well to life after football
Zenden 'proud' of Benitez's assistant manager offer at Chelsea
The 36-year-old admits he is delighted to be joining the coaching staff at Stamford Bridge and cannot wait to be reunited with his former Liverpool boss
Working under Abramovich easy compared to Liverpool, claims Benitez
The new Chelsea boss insists he will have no problems managing the club for the Russian billionaire, despite a turbulent relationship with the owners of his former club at Anfield
Bale to tell Tottenham he wants Real Madrid move
Spurs chairman Daniel Levy is hoping to pry €62 million from the Liga champions, with the Welsh winger making no secret of his desire to move abroad in the future
Fulham and Zenit make moves to sign Arshavin
Arsenal value the outcast Russian - whose contract expires at the end of the season - between the €5-6 million mark and would prefer selling him to loaning him out again
Chelsea's only option is to apologise to Clattenburg and move on
After the FA dropped the charges against the official following the west London club's claims that "inappropriate language" was used towards Mikel, the Blues must say sorry
Joe Cole: I still have a future at Liverpool
After assisting one and scoring the other in the Reds' 2-2 draw with Young Boys in the Europa League, the 31-year-old is confident he can still be in Brendan Rodgers' plans
'Uefa has to act' - Villas-Boas blasts anti-Semitic chants from Lazio fans
Fans of the Serie A club were heard to chant "Juden Tottenham" during the first half, prompting the Portuguese to call on the governing body for just punishment
Vidic hails Sir Alex Ferguson's impact at Manchester United
The Old Trafford skipper has hailed the 70-year-old's legacy after 26 years with the club, ahead of the unveiling of a statue to commemorate his reign at the Red Devils
Youth holds the key to English improvement for Hodgson
The Three Lions' lack of technical ability was shown up in their defeat by Italy at Euro 2012, and the boss thinks that the young generation hold the key to future improvement
Oscar delighted with his adaptation to life at Chelsea
The Brazilian feels he made the right choice in moving to Stamford Bridge, and is pleased with the way he has taken to life in London despite having many offers in the summer
Officials' chief calls for Chelsea to apologise to Clattenburg
Alan Leighton of the Professional Referees' Association believes referees across the country will be delighted with the decision to clear the 37-year-old of abusing John Obi Mikel
Benitez: I'm at Chelsea to win trophies
The former Liverpool manager has taken on the role at Stamford Bridge until the end of the season after Roberto Di Matteo's dismissal, and insists he is hungry for silverware
Kick It Out 'reassured' by FA's Clattenburg investigation
No further action will be taken against the 37-year-old referee, after he was accused by Chelsea of using inappropriate language towards Nigerian midfielder John Obi Mikel
Manchester United starlet Joshua King joins Blackburn on loan until January
The 20-year-old striker has been scouted by compatriot Henning Berg and given a chance to play regular football in the Championship until January as Rovers look for promotion
Uefa postpone Serbia - England Under-21s disciplinary hearing
Europe's governing body were due to pass judgement on the controversial events in Krusevac on Thursday, but have now announced their decision to delay the hearing by three weeks
FA takes no further action against Clattenburg while Mikel is charged
After investigating the referee's alleged abuse of John Obi Mikel, the association does not believe the offical has a case to answer - and has charged the Nigerian midfielder
Liverpool midfielder Allen pays tribute to Swansea fans
The 22-year-old has expressed his gratitude for the supporters' reception in last month's cup tie at Anfield, and is looking forward to returning to the Liberty Stadium on Sunday
Benitez: My main focus is winning the next game
The new interim manager at Stamford Bridge is planning one match at a time after replacing Roberto Di Matteo, but feels he can connect with fans through his passion for success
Drogba refused permission to leave Shanghai Shenhua on loan
The former Chelsea striker was linked with a return to the Blues after the Chinese Super League concluded, as he hoped to build up his fitness ahead of the African Cup of Nations
Shane Long is not for sale, declares Clarke
The Ireland international will be staying with high-flying West Brom, insists the manager, who is adamant that any bid made for the forward will be given short shrift
Manchester United must bounce back from Norwich defeat, warns Carrick
The 31-year-old argues that Sir Alex Ferguson's side have enjoyed a reasonably good start to te season but insists that they need to kick on after the shock result at Carrow Road
Wenger: Arsenal have adapted to Giroud's aerial strength
The Gunners manager claims that his side have started to use the ball differently as a way to take advantage of the former Montpellier striker's ability in the air
'I don't intend to be leaving soon' - Sir Alex Ferguson not quitting Manchester United yet
The legendary manager reveals his intention to continue at the helm at Old Trafford for longer than 26 years after the club unveiled a statue of him outside the stadium on Friday
Paris Saint-Germain consider world-record £100m bid for Cristiano Ronaldo
The Qatari-backed club are hoping to take advantage of the Portuguese superstar's previous hints that he is unhappy at Real Madrid with a mammoth transfer offer
Bale reiterates desire to move overseas amid interest from Real Madrid
The Tottenham winger reckons that he has what it takes to succeed on the continent and believes that he can avoid the pitfalls that other British players have faced abroad
Ashley Cole and Lampard likely to leave Chelsea, admits Benitez
The recently-appointed interim Blues boss admits he is in the dark over the future of the experienced pair at Stamford Bridge, but doesn't expect them to remain long-term
Redknapp confirms he is closing in on QPR job
The former Tottenham boss is confident of wrapping up contract talks before Saturday morning after Mark Hughes was sacked earlier on Friday following a poor start to the season
Ashley Williams may not shake Suarez's hand, admits Laudrup
The Swansea defender claimed he wanted to knock the Uruguayan out after facing him last season, but the Dane is confident that his defender will keep his cool on Sunday
Rooney happy to play deeper role for Manchester United
The England international has been absent for two weeks with tonsillitis and faces competition for a striker's role from Robin van Persie, Danny Welbeck and Chicharito
Newcastle boss Pardew reveals Ben Arfa injury 'not as bad as first feared'
The Magpies boss has indicated the winger might only miss two weeks with a hamstring problem, while young striker Nile Ranger has "knuckled down" at St James' Park
Van Nistelrooy 'grateful' to have played for Manchester United under Sir Alex Ferguson
The 36-year-old left Old Trafford after a falling out with the 70-year-old but, speaking at the unveiling of a statue of the Scot, insists he bears no grudges towards him
Lucas steps up return with hour-long Liverpool Under-21s appearance
The midfielder has been out with a thigh injury since August but is closing in on a first-team comeback after getting through 60 minutes for Rodolfo Borrell's side
Aston Villa boss Lambert stands by referee criticism
Despite already receiving a one-match ban, the 43-year-old reiterated his displeasure at the "shocking decision" given against his side during their clash with Manchester City.
Mancini: Benitez can't revive Chelsea striker Torres in two days
The Spain international has been reunited with his former Liverpool boos at Stamford Bridge, but the Italian does not expect an immediate turnaround for the Blues
Allardyce wants West Ham to exploit Tottenham fatigue
The Hammers coach wants his side to take advantage after Spurs' Europa League trip to Italy and is taking encouragement from Wigan's recent victory at White Hart Lane
West Brom manager Clarke hoping for Lukaku stay
The Baggies boss is hoping that Roman Abramovich's decision to sack Roberto Di Matteo and replace him with Rafa Benitez will not result in a recall for the on-loan Belgium striker
Zaha named Football League Young Player of the Month for October
The 20-year-old, who earned his first senior England call-up in November, says that he is "delighted and honoured" to win the accolade, with his manager praising his consistency
Redknapp's representatives: Talks with QPR are imminent
The 65-year-old is the hot favourite to replace Mark Hughes, who was sacked on Friday after a string of 12 games without a victory, with contact made between the two parties
Adebayor: I will leave if Tottenham want me to
Although he says that he is happy at Spurs, the Togolese admits that he will depart if he is not in the club's future plans, while he has also criticised the team's recent form
Chelsea's failure to apologise to Clattenburg is staggering, says referees' union
Prospect claims that the official went "through hell" and not apologising is just one thing the club have done wrong, adding measures need to be introduced to stop similar cases
Manchester United midfielder Carrick admits playing in defence is not ideal
The England international has stated that playing in the middle is his preferred situation, but says he is willing to play at the back if his manager and team need him to
Tottenham keeper Lloris: I need to keep playing
The France captain wants to play more regularly to "get more confidence" and perform to his highest level but acknowledges the need for patience in the long term
Mancini hoping Kompany can shake off knee injury to face Chelsea
The skipper was hurt in a clash with Cristiano Ronaldo during the 1-1 draw with Real Madrid on Wednesday, but his boss is refusing to rule him out of Sunday's game
No effort and no ideas: Hughes' QPR sacking was inevitable
The players had visibly lost faith in their manager, observes Vital QPR's Adam Boxer, with a change of direction the only viable course of action for the Premier League strugglers
Aguero: Manchester City will retain Premier League title
After crashing out of the Champions League midweek, the Argentine remains confident that City will retain their crown as the best side in the country at the end of the season
Clattenburg to return as fourth official for Tottenham v West Ham on Sunday
The 37-year-old will play a part in this weekend's fixtures before making his full return on Wednesday evening, when he will take charge of Southampton v Norwich City
Ajax defender Alderweireld dismisses Premier League switch
The towering centre-back has reportedly attracted the interest of Tottenham and Newcastle United, but he insists he is happy to stay put for now
Szczesny hopes Arsenal can emulate Chelsea and win Champions League
The Polish keeper admits there are other teams in Europe who are more likely to win the competition, but hopes the Gunners can pull off a shock in May
Wenger: Premier League still strongest competition in Europe
Despite all four La Liga sides and all three Bundesliga teams progressing to the last 16 of the Champions League, the French coach is adamant that England have the best league
Two charged over stabbing of Tottenham fan in Rome
After a 25-year-old man was left with serious injuries to his skull and thigh, two men have been arrested and charged with attempted murder in the Italian capital.
Berbatov class key to Fulham revival - Sidwell
The elegant Bulgarian has found the net five times in the Premier League this season as the Cottagers have defied the doubters while thrilling fans and neutrals alike
Rooney to return for Manchester United's clash against QPR
After missing the last two games against Norwich City and Galatasaray, Sir Alex Ferguson revealed the striker will be back in action against the Premier League's bottom club
Zabaleta puzzled by Manchester City's Champions League exit
The Premier League champions crashed out at the group stage for the second year running and must now beat Borussia Dortmund to stand a chance of qualifying for the Europa League
Arsenal agree new £150m deal with Emirates
The Gunners have announced a decision to extend their current shirt sponsorship deal with the international airline for a further five years until the end of the 2018-2019 season
The Gunners have announced a decision to extend their current shirt sponsorship deal with the international airline for a further five years until the end of the 2018-2019 season
Nov 23, 2012 11:41:00 AM
Arsenal have announced a five-year extension to their shirt sponsorship deal with international airline Emirates, in a new £150 million agreement.
The deal is one of the biggest of its kind and will net the Gunners a £30m per season for the duration of the agreement.
In addition to maintaining shirt sponsorship rights, the club's ground will continue to be known as the Emirates Stadium until 2028.
The negotiations were formally concluded on Friday by Arsenal chief executive Ivan Gazidis and Emirates vice-chairman Boutros Boutros, and Gazidis hailed the deal as a testimony of the club's approach to the future.
"This is an exciting day for Arsenal Football Club and all our supporters," he told the club's official website.
"This agreement is a testimony to Arsenal’s approach and to the capabilities we have developed in recent years as well as the strength of our partnership with Emirates.
“The original deal with Emirates was a key facilitator of our move from Highbury and this next phase of our relationship will be just as critical to keep us at the top of the game in England and Europe.
“Emirates is the perfect partner for Arsenal and we are delighted to have agreed a new partnership. Emirates is a world-class brand and by flying to more than 120 destinations across six continents has a truly global reach.
"This reach will play an important role in our own ambitions to further extend the depth of our following around the world. The fact this partnership will continue for many years to come underlines how much both organisations value and benefit from the relationship.”
