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

[Zieler]

Everton need 60 points for Europe spot, says Moyes

By Tom Marshall-Bailey
Apr 4, 2013 8:10:00 PM

The Scottish manager has urged his side to finish the season as strongly as they have done in the past to ensure they collect enough points to qualify for Europe next year

Everton manager David Moyes believes his side must break the 60-point mark if they are to secure European football at Goodison Park next season.

The Toffees currently lie two points adrift of fifth-placed Arsenal and a further four points behind fourth-placed Tottenham ahead of Sunday's visit to White Hart Lane.

Moyes' side also face daunting away trips to Arsenal, Chelsea and Merseyside rivals Liverpool before the end of the season and the Scot believes his team may have to replicate their best-ever points tally under him - 65 when they finished fifth in 2008.

"We have a tough run-in," Moyes told reporters. "And with the league table still being tight I am hoping that we can do what we have done in the past and finish strongly.

“With eight games to go last season we had 40 points, this time around we have 51 and if we want to have any chance of getting close to Europe I feel we will certainly have to get above the 60 points mark.”

Moyes also revealed this time of the season traditionally sees his side take a break ahead of the vital run-in, but due to a fixture pile-up, the Toffees will have to do without the chance to recuperate.

“In recent seasons I would have looked to have taken the team away to have a few days training in the sunshine, but the way the fixtures have worked I have not found it possible this year,” added Moyes.

“At this time of the season we try to keep the training short and sharp as much as we can. It’s a pattern we’ve followed in previous years and it has tended to work for us.”

 

[Zieler]

Fernandes will keep Redknapp in charge if QPR go down

By Tom Marshall-Bailey
Apr 4, 2013 9:40:00 PM

The owner of the relegation-haunted London outfit confirms that he wants to instil stability at the club and will look to keep the former Tottenham manager at the helm

QPR owner Tony Fernandes says that he will keep faith with manager Harry Redknapp should the joint-bottom side be relegated to the Championship at the end of the season.

The Rs, who have gone through 11 managers over the past five years, currently lie seven points adrift of Premier League safety but the Malaysian is targeting continuity at the club.

He told London Call-In: "I want stability more than anything.

"I wanted it with Neil Warnock and Mark Hughes, so it's third time lucky with Harry. I think he is the man. We understand each other well and he knows how committed the shareholders are.

"He has a great coaching staff and philosophy - he's a fantastic man and I would love to keep him as long as he wants to stay."

Although the manager's position is safe, several of the first-team squad's futures may be in jeopardy as the club look to trim the wage bill, Fernandes confirmed.

"We will have to sit down with Harry and discuss who we want to keep and who would go," he added.

"Obviously there will be players that will go regardless of if we stay up or go down. We want players who can give a lot to the club for a long time.

"I do see players going but we do have the nucleus of a good squad now which we have had to rebuild. Every single player who has left QPR has not stayed in the Premier League and that shows how much rebuilding we had to do."

 

[Zieler]

I want to rebuild Liverpool like Shankly, says Rodgers

By Ian Capasso
Apr 4, 2013 7:05:00 PM

The Reds boss has invoked the spirit of iconic managers Bill Shankly and Bob Paisley in his task to lead the club forward but insists he is not a prisoner of a prosperous past

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has stated that his ultimate goal at the helm of the famed club is to rebuild the side in the manner of legends Bill Shankly and Bob Paisley.

The Scotsman's work with the Merseysiders from 1959 to 1974 ushered in a new era of prosperity on the pitch for the Anfield outfit, setting the stage for former assistant Paisley to initiate the club's most successful era over the following nine years.

With the Reds having brought home only a single piece of silverware, the 2012 Capital One Cup, since the start of the 2006 season, Rodgers is hoping to follow in the footsteps of his celebrated predecessors in returning the side to prominence.

"First and foremost there is no comparison in relation to those greats of the past; those two managers will always be remembered here. For someone like me, my job is to build the club again, like Bill Shankly did very successfully and that set up the many successful eras that everyone remembers Liverpool for," he said.

"That’s what I’m trying to replicate and it’s a huge challenge, because the club is an institution, but it is a challenge that I’ve enjoyed every minute of and all the staff and players have also. I’ve seen real progress this season and I would expect us to continue that over the next couple of years. "

Rodgers went on to point to Liverpool's fans as the greatest source of inspiration in his endeavors at Anfield, and commented that while he is constantly reminded of the club's illustrious history, he does not feel held captive by the past.

"I’ve been very pleased because at the end of the day the supporters are the people that count. You always want to win games and to develop the team, so it’s very important that you have encouragement from your fans. Our supporters have shown exactly why they are so well renowned – I’ve really felt and appreciated their support," he continued.

"It’s everything and things like the ‘This is Anfield’ sign are symbols of the great past. What is also important, though, is that we are not held hostage to our history.

"This is an incredible club, you only need to walk into the reception to see a European Cup in the hallway, so you know that everyday you come in you have to be good.

"It’s important that we use that as motivation and commitment for our future. The wonderful players and managers that we have had here provide inspiration to us all and it gives us a great focus going forward to try and recreate those memories."

 

[Zieler]

Schalke wait to pounce for Moyes at end of season if talks over new deal at Everton falter

By CHRIS WHEELER PUBLISHED: 21:30 GMT, 4 April 2013 | UPDATED: 22:56 GMT, 4 April 2013

David Moyes is back at the top of Schalke’s wanted list as the German club prepare to appoint a new manager this summer — with Celtic’s Neil Lennon a strong candidate to replace the Scot if he leaves Everton. It was thought Moyes had slipped behind Armin Veh in the Schalke running until the Eintracht Frankfurt coach signed a new deal last week. Moyes, 49, has put off talks over a new deal until the end of the season and is keen to hear what Schalke have to offer.

In the frame: David Moyes is a Schalke target

Contender: Neil Lennon may replace Moyes at Everton

The Bundesliga club are looking for a top European coach after installing Jens Keller on a short-term basis when they sacked Huub Stevens in December. Former Chelsea boss Roberto Di Matteo is also in the frame. Lennon is on the verge of securing his second successive SPL title with Celtic. But there is a growing sense that he could quit Parkhead for a new challenge this summer.With Rangers not due to return to Scotland’s top league until 2015 at the earliest, Lennon knows football north of the border will not be seriously competitive for his side.

Interim boss: Schalke installed Jens Keller on a short-term basis

In the mix: Eintracht Frankfurt manager Armin Veh

Having the chance to take the next step in his management career at Everton may be too good an opportunity to turn down.Lennon’s stock has grown considerably this season, despite the lack of competition on the domestic front, thanks to Celtic’s run to the Champions League knock-out stages — which included that euphoric win over Barcelona.Moyes' 11-year spell in charge at Goodison Park makes him the third longest-serving manager in the Premier League, but he has put off talks over a new deal until the end of the season and will wait to hear what Schalke have to offer. The Bundesliga club are looking for a top European coach after installing Jens Keller on a short-term basis when they sacked Huub Stevens in December.
​

 

[Zieler]

Napoli's Edison Cavani has been linked with a move to Manchester City in this summer's transfer window, however the Italian side's president has made it clear that the player will only be allowed to leave the club for bids in excess of £60 million.

The Uruguayan has become one of Europe's most highly sought after players in Europe after having helped his side up to second place in Serie A by scoring 29 goals in 35 games this season. Bayern Munich, Chelsea and Real Madrid have also shown interest which has prompted Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis to speak out in regards to Cavani's availability.

De Laurentiis said: 'We included a very high buy-out clause in his contract because we want him to stay at Napoli. The clause exists, though, and if some nutter is willing to pay £60m for him, which would mean a net fee of £53m for Napoli, we are ready to listen to the offer.'

'However, let it be clear that the final decision lies with Edinson. He knows that he’s respected here and that the people love him. Not just for his goals, but also because he’s a serious and polite person.'

Cavani's agent Gennaro Famiglietti has also attempted to play down rumours of a transfer away from Napoli suggesting that his high buy out clause is likely to prevent any deal being agreed.

'Cavani loves the club and the city,' said Famiglietti. 'We have already said that he is ready to stay if the squad can become stronger and new signings can arrive.'

'Few clubs can pay the price for Cavani and this will determine his future. There is no agreement with anybody. The player is ambitious and wants to win titles with Napoli.'

 

[General Veers]

Manchester United not focused on records, says Ferdinand
The veteran defender has given little thought to the prospect of setting a new Premier League points record, and insists the Red Devils’ only concern is securing the title

Coutinho credits Liverpool team-mates for speedy Premier League transition
The Brazilian attacker has formed an instant bond with 'big brother' and countryman Lucas Leiva, while Reds captain Steven Gerrard has also been giving the youngster advice

Gary Neville: Manchester City need to do more than splash the cash to keep up with United
The ex-Red Devils right-back has warned the Citizens not to spend heavily this year or sack under-fire boss Roberto Mancini but instead build responsibly for long-term success

Disciplinarian Di Canio outlines ‘big changes’ at Sunderland
The new Black Cats boss, whose appointment was surrounded by controversy concerning his political beliefs, has promised to implement a stricter regime on Wearside

Liverpool starlet Coutinho seeking Europa League qualification
The Brazilian playmaker, who joined the club from Inter in January, has vowed to help the Reds try to claim the final European spot and also praised team-mate Luis Suarez

‘We’re not going to go away’ - Sir Alex Ferguson expects more Manchester United success in the future
The 71-year-old boss has backed his young side to continue their domination of the Premier League next season but would be wary of Chelsea should Jose Mourinho return to the Blues

Experience proves Tottenham can battle on without Bale
The 23-year-old winger has been in fantastic form for the White Hart Lane outfit since the turn of the year, but his absence does not mean Spurs' top-four dreams are over

Mancini: Manchester City need to spend big this summer to keep up with United
The Italian has urged his club to splash the clash in the transfer window if they are to remain competitive in the Premier League and keep up with their title rivals

Misfits fuel Arsenal's push for fourth spot after grinding out West Brom win
Tomas Rosicky fired a timely double for Arsene Wenger's men, reminding Gunners fans of his importance as Laurent Koscielny, Lukasz Fabianski and Gervinho also came good

Chelsea must forget Di Canio & concentrate on Sunderland, says Benitez
The Spaniard has told his side to focus on their own game at Stamford Bridge on Saturday and expects to rotate his squad again with a trip to Russia in the Europa League looming

Tottenham must break the bank to keep Bale, says Ginola
The Frenchman has urged Spurs to stop selling their key players and do everything in their power to keep hold of the Wales international if they want to to achieve success

Pardew: Newcastle must bounce back with Fulham win
The Magpies boss wants his side to return to winning ways at home to the Cottagers to end a run of three straight defeats and prepare for their upcoming Europa League tie

Axed Sunderland boss O'Neill eyes speedy return to management
The 61-year-old former Sunderland manager dismissed suggestions that he was too old for top-flight management and cited Sir Alex Ferguson and Roy Hodgson as proof

Wenger praises Arsenal's battling qualities after passing West Brom test
The French manager also lauded the performance of Tomas Rosicky, whose two goals secured victory at the Hawthorns and lifted the Gunners into the Champions League places

Carroll can still become a 'top player', claims Liverpool manager Rodgers
The Reds boss believes the 24-year-old has the potential to flourish in the Premier League, though it is not certain whether he will get the chance to do so at Anfield

Mata: Chelsea must qualify for the Champions League next season
The Blues' midfielder stressed the importance of finishing in the Premier League's top four, as well as his desire to go all the way in the FA Cup and Europa League this term

Chico Flores signs new Swansea deal
The 26-year-old centre-back has signed an improved contract that will keep him at the Liberty Stadium until 2016 because he says the club will only continue to grow

Clarke: West Brom won't use Cazorla's dive as motivation
The former Malaga man appeared to simulate contact in the previous encounter between the teams to win a penalty, but the Baggies' coach insists his side aren't focusing on it

Chelsea striker Torres: This has been a disappointing season
The Spanish forward says that upheaval in the squad has been difficult to adjust to, but is pleased to be back among the goals after his double in the Europa League

Moyes: Everton's squad is too small to cope with Europe
The Toffees' boss is relishing the chance of European competition but is concerned that he currently has too few players to sustain strong domestic and continental campaigns

Dembele: With or without Bale, we can win our games
The Belgian believes that Tottenham's squad has enough quality to cope without the influential attacker and Aaron Lennon, who have both been ruled out for two weeks

Fernando Torres rules out Atletico Madrid return
The striker is not interested in a return to the Vicente Calderon yet, and is determined to play for Spain again

Mancini: Tevez's future is at Manchester City
The coach of the Premier League champions believes the 250 hours of community service the striker received for driving offences will not have an effect on his future at the club

Hart: Manchester City not a flash in the pan
The goalkeeper laments the performances of the squad in their title defence, but still believes Roberto Mancini's team are the side to beat and this season is not a backwards step

Nani keen to end 'disappointing' season on a high with Manchester United
The Portuguese has struggled for fitness and form this term, but is eager to make up for that as the Red Devils look to romp home in the Premier League title race

Arsenal helped by Chelsea & Tottenham's European exploits, says Bould
The Gunners' main rivals for a top-four finish are still involved in the Europa League, and the club's assistant manager believes that could give his side an edge in the run-in

Allardyce: West Ham monitoring Vitesse striker Bony
The Hammers boss has revealed that he will send scouts to the Netherlands to watch the Cote d'Ivoire international in action in the Eredivisie over the weekend

Aston Villa need 'mental strength' to beat the drop, says Lambert
The Villans are mired in the relegation zone ahead of their trip to face Stoke on Saturday, but the former Norwich boss remains optimistic about their survival chances

'The best is still to come' - Martinez hails Wigan striker Kone
The Cote d'Ivoire international has scored six goals in his last six games, and his coach believes that he will continue to improve as the season reaches its conclusion

Mancini: Manchester City players' private lives won't affect results
After both Carlos Tevez and Samir Nasri were handed driving bans this week, the Italian has reassured supporters that on-the-pitch matters will remain unaffected

Terry: Chelsea need to be involved in the Champions League
The Blues captain has called for his team-mates not to let up in their pursuit of a top-four finish, despite the distractions provided by the FA Cup and Europa League

Sir Alex Ferguson hails De Gea's maturity in light of past criticism
The young Spaniard suffered a shaky start to his career at Manchester United but has impressed his boss and team-mate Rio Ferdinand with his progression under scrutiny

Terry: I can only speak highly of Di Canio
The new Sunderland boss takes charge of the Black Cats for the first time against the Blues on Sunday, and the centre-back has spoken highly of his experiences of the Italian

Tottenham defender Vertonghen named Player of the Month for March
The Belgian has been rewarded for his excellent performances of late, and says that him and his team-mates are treating every game as a cup final until the end of the season

'World-class' Suarez should be named Player of the Year, says Rodgers
The Liverpool manager believes his striker should win the coveted end-of-season PFA award, not only thanks to his goals but also the consistently high level of his performances

Tottenham midfielder Bale sidelined for a fortnight
The 23-year-old is expected to return for the visit of Manchester City on April 21, with Aaron Lennon and William Gallas also set to miss games against Everton and Basel

Molby 'would love' to see Ajax ace Eriksen move to Liverpool
The former Kop favourite believes the 21-year-old would be the perfect fit at Anfield following speculation linking the playmaker with a move to the Premier League

Everton boss Moyes named Premier League Manager of the Month for March
The Toffees have won all three of their top-flight games after beating Reading, Stoke and Manchester City to leave them just four points off fourth-placed Chelsea

 

[General Veers]

Mancini: Manchester City can win Premier League title next season
The Italian has rued a number of injuries to first-team players and individual mistakes during the current campaign, but is confident his squad can make amends in 12 months' time

Jones: Manchester United must bounce back from derby defeat
Sir Alex Ferguson's side saw their lead at the top of the Premier League cut to 12 points on Monday, and the 21-year-old is demanding a reaction against Stoke on Sunday

Ferguson praises 'absolutely fantastic' Van Persie
The Manchester United manager saw the positives despite his side's derby defeat at Old Trafford and believes James Milner's opening goal should have been chalked off

Mancini: It doesn't matter if we're 18 points behind United - it's all about second place now
The Manchester City boss believes his side deserve to be closer to the Red Devils in the Premier League table but conceded that the title race was over, despite Monday's 2-1win

FA finds no evidence of racist chanting from England fans during San Marino clash
The governing body has stated that after an exhaustive report was compiled in the aftermath of the game on Fifa's request, there is no proof that any songs were racially motivated

Kaboul makes Tottenham return in hour-long Under-21 run out
The 27-year-old centre-back underwent knee surgery in August and has been unavailable since then, but his return to action provides a huge boost to Spurs' top four hopes

Bale's best position is behind the striker, says former Tottenham star Ginola
The Frenchman believes the Wales international is best used from a central position, and says Spurs would rather win the Europa League than finish in the top four this season

Wilshere one of the few world-class players at Arsenal, says George Graham
The ex-Gunners manager feels the 21-year-old brings drive to the midfield and is backing the north Londoners to finish third in the Premier League

'People expect 10 goals from him every game' - Hazard defends Torres
The Chelsea forward says he has been impressed by the Spaniard's form this season and his ability to deal with the constant criticism

Balotelli hoping for Man City return
The AC Milan striker wants the Rossoneri and his former club to be drawn against one another in the group stage of the Champions League

Tottenham must return to winning ways, says Dawson
The England defender praised the team's character following their late comeback against Everton but says that they need to start picking up victories to finish in the top four

'He's such an important player' - Wenger praises Rosicky after West Brom double
The Czech Republic midfielder was making only his fifth appearance in the Premier League this season at the Hawthorns but scored twice to lead the Gunners to a vital victory

Manchester City slump down to Mancini, says Schmeichel
The keeper, who played for both sides in the city, believes that the poor campaign can be attributed to the Italian after a season of publicly criticising his players

Young players don't get a chance at Manchester City, claims Gary Neville
The television pundit and England coach believes that the defending champions have enough quality in their academy to bring more homegrown players into the first-team setup

Arsenal must improve home form to secure top-four finish, admits Rosicky
The Czech Republic midfielder scored twice as the Gunners dispatched West Brom at the Hawthorns on Saturday but acknowledged they must gain consistency on home turf

Tottenham boss Villas-Boas: Arsenal's belief helps them in Champions League race
The Spurs manager says that Arsene Wenger's side can draw on their history of finishing seasons strongly, but insists that his team will not "look at ghosts in the past"

Chelsea boss Benitez pleased with change in atmosphere at Stamford Bridge
The Spaniard believes that supporters hostile to his appointment as manager are now getting behind the team after they beat Sunderland to make it three wins in a week

'Sir Alex Ferguson wants to re-sign Ronaldo' - Pallister
The former Manchester United defender believes the boss is keen to raise the bar on Manchester City and other title rivals and bring the Portuguese forward back to Old Trafford

Fulham deserved more against Newcastle, says Jol
The Dutchman has rued Papiss Cisse's late strike at St James' Park after an "almost perfect" first-half display appeared to contain the Magpies and frustrate the home supporters

Sunderland boss Di Canio backs himself to adapt to Premier League
The 44-year-old insists he is not fazed by a lack of experience in the top flight and believes his squad need to work on their fitness ahead of the relegation run-in

Benitez: It was important to keep winning
The Chelsea manager is delighted with his side's mentality after coming from behind to beat Sunderland 2-1 at Stamford Bridge

'Mirallas was our Bale today' - Moyes
The Belgian striker scored a fantastic individual goal against Tottenham on Sunday, much to his manager's delight

Rodgers buoyant despite Liverpool stalemate
Sam Allardyce's side defended doggedly at Anfield on Sunday afternoon to frustrate the hosts and come away with a vital point as they look to make sure of their top-flight safety

 

[Zieler]

Ferguson admits fondness of new Sunderland boss Di Canio

By Oliver Platt
Apr 7, 2013 2:09:00 PM

The Manchester United manager has expressed an admiration of the Italian's passion and belief in an attractive style of football following his controversial appointment

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has handed new Sunderland boss Paolo Di Canio his backing following the Italian's controversial appointment at the Stadium of Light.

Di Canio has come under the microscope since replacing Martin O'Neill, who was sacked following the 1-0 defeat to the Premier League leaders, having previously described himself as a fascist.

The 71-year-old, however, has admitted that he admires Di Canio's passionate style as well as his emphasis on developing an attractive style of play.

"I must confess to a liking for the fellow and his approach to the game," Sir Alex told United Review.

"As I wrote the other week, he wears his heart on his sleeve and I like his football philosophy, wanting to play the ball on the ground rather than in the air.

"I have this picture in my mind of him being in the technical area pointing to the sky and then the ground in an effort to get his players to keep the ball down.

"He has a tough challenge on his hands with his fight to keep Sunderland in the Premier League."

 

[Zieler]

Manchester City must beat United & Chelsea in the transfer market this summer, says Quinn

Apr 9, 2013 7:55:00 AM

The 46-year-old believes the champions' title challenge was hampered by missing out on Eden Hazard and Robin van Persie, and has urged the club not to make the same mistake again

EXCLUSIVE
By Tom Marshall-Bailey

Manchester City may have claimed three points at Old Trafford, but Niall Quinn believes the club need to find an extra “sparkle” to overtake rivals United next season.

Goals from James Milner and Sergio Aguero helped Roberto Mancini’s side claim victory on Monday, though former City striker Quinn is adamant the club must bring in new recruits over the summer.

But Quinn warned his ex-club that they will face stiff competition in the transfer market from both the Red Devils and Chelsea, and believes Mancini could be forced to sell before he can buy.

“If everything goes Mancini’s way and he’s still here with the full confidence of the owners, I think he probably needs to bring another bit of sparkle to the team,” Quinn exclusively told Goal.com at a Barclays Spaces For Sport event.

“I think they have to be careful on their FIFA Financial Fair Play model, so they can live within their means, you may see Man City do a bit of business now.

“Maybe even let a good one go to get a better one and freshen things up.

“We are used to seeing them buy and buy and buy and very seldom do we see them let a big star go but they may have to play that game now."

Last summer Mancini saw his main transfer targets Eden Hazard and Robin van Persie snatched from under his nose and Quinn is sure the wheels are already in motion to ensure that does not happen again.

“Toure signed a new deal there which is encouraging but I believe there’s a sparkle needed," he added.

“The scouting system will be in meltdown now making sure they get the right person ahead of Manchester United and Chelsea this summer.”

 

[Zieler]

Man United 1 Man City 2: Super sub Aguero fires visitors to derby win but it won't spoil Ferguson's celebrations this time

By MARTIN SAMUEL PUBLISHED: 20:52 GMT, 8 April 2013 | UPDATED: 08:19 GMT, 9 April 2013

​

How they stand: City closed the gap to 12 points on their bitter rivals at Old Trafford

Aguero. No long train of ecstatic o’s at the end this time. It wasn’t that sort of game. Sergio Aguero decided the title race with almost the last kick of the 2011-12 season, but here he merely delayed the inevitable.He made a point, though, as did Manchester City. There is still a bit of a racket coming from next door. They still need to keep it down if Sir Alex Ferguson is going to get a good night’s sleep.City were never going to derail Manchester United’s runaway train, of course, but they slowed it, at least. In front of an Old Trafford crowd who had come seeking revenge and, in part, a coronation, Aguero momentarily silenced the taunts and triumphalism.

Winner: Sergio Aguero's wonderful strike for Manchester City was the decisive goal

Out-jumped: Vincent Kompany (left) can't keep Phil Jones' effort from ending up in the back of the net

MATCH FACTS

Manchester United: De Gea, Rafael, Evra, Jones, Ferdinand, Giggs, Carrick, Young (Kagawa 90), Rooney (Hernandez 85), Welbeck (Valencia 80), Van Persie
Subs not used: Lindegaard, Buttner, Nani, Cleverley

Booked: Rafael, Rooney, Giggs, Valencia

Goal: Kompany 59 (og)

Manchester City: Hart, Zabaleta, Kompany, Clichy, Nastasic, Milner, Nasri (Aguero 71), Barry, Silva (Lescott 90), Y Toure, Tevez (Garcia 90)

Subs not used: Pantilimon, Kolarov, K Toure, Dzeko

Booked: Silva, Kompany, Tevez, Barry, Zabaleta

Goals: Milner 51, Aguero 78

Referee: Mike Dean
Attendance: 75, 498

United will have to wait and work for their title, maybe all the way to the end of the month, or beyond if they drop further points. It was a cracking winning goal, fit to decide a match of such high emotion, even if the stakes are not what they should have been. Aguero collected the ball from Yaya Toure and ran a wide arc, a pack of United players in pursuit, outstaying them all before shooting across his body past David de Gea. His low centre of gravity helps, as did staying on his feet. Aguero was losing his balance as he finished, too. It really was an exceptional effort.And it was no more than City deserved. They had the best of the possession and, by the end, the best of the chances.

It was a performance that raised more questions than answers, however. How can a team that plays like this at Old Trafford be 12 points adrift? How, little more than a week into April, is the title already regarded as over? Why was City’s defence of their prize so poor?‘Champions of England,’ the visitors sang, but even the die-hards realise this is a boast with an imminent expiry date. United would not require AP McCoy to bring this one home. Sylvester McCoy could probably manage it.Maybe City’s enhanced performance was only to be expected in the circumstances. One team is cantering towards the finishing line, the other is in frantic pursuit. Even if City are only playing for pride they had more riding on this than United.The sole way Ferguson’s players could end up feeling like losers this season is if they risked too much and ended up getting hammered at home again by their greatest rivals. And it can happen, even at elite level. United put eight past Arsenal; City put six past United.

Grimace: Jones (right) watches as Aguero hits the winning goal past David de Gea

Bust-up: Gareth Barry (centre) confronts Rio Ferdinand (right) as tempers flare

Getting shirty: Barry also had words with rival Ryan Giggs (centre)

Jubilation: Despite Jones' celebrations, the equaliser went down as a Kompany own goal

Gifted: James Milner put Manchester City in the lead with a powerful drive from the edge of the area

This defeat will smart, but it does not compare to the 6-1 from last year; an afternoon so humiliating that Ferguson has not watched it since.Ferguson put a positive gloss on proceedings after last night’s game, as well he might after reminding himself of the league table.But behind closed doors he was probably less than complimentary, particularly towards Ryan Giggs. Of all the people to be guilty of elaborate overindulgence, it was Giggs whose momentary lapse of reason helped Manchester City take the lead.Inside his own half, out towards the left flank, his blind attempt at a back-heel to nobody in particular succeeded only in gifting the ball to Gareth Barry, who accepted gratefully and sped towards goal.Once in range, he fed the ball inside to Samir Nasri, who moved it on to James Milner. His shot caught a slight deflection off a desperate Phil Jones on the way to goal.

Overjoyed: Milner is congratulated by his City team-mates after breaking the deadlock

Swing when you're winning: Milner celebrated by showing the fans his golf technique

It was enough to escape the clutches of goalkeeper De Gea, who had gone a remarkable 679 minutes without conceding a goal in the Premier League. City were always going to present his biggest test, however.Giggs, more than any player on the field, would not have been surprised at the consequences of his error; more that it happened at all. Even 39-year-olds get a rush of blood to the head, it seems.Yet if this season has been one in which United have chased down their city rivals, closing the slender gap established at the end of last season, then this game was at first its tiny echo.It took United just seven minutes to erase City’s lead. Yaya Toure conceded a free-kick on the right which Robin Van Persie stepped up to take. To remove your best goal-scorer from the penalty box for such a grand opportunity seems foolhardy but Arsenal had the same policy. It is, in reality, testament to Van Persie’s stunning capability with a dead ball. So it proved.

Last ditch: United's Phil Jones (left) was at full stretch to nick the ball away from the incoming Carlos Tevez

MILNER'S GOLF CELEBRATION

James Milner celebrated the opening goal at Old Trafford with a golf swing in the direction of the visiting Man City fans - in a nod to a forthcoming charity event for his foundation. The James Milner Foundation (JMF) recently announced that its first golf day will be held at the De Vere Mottram Hall, in Cheshire on April 23. The evening will raise funds for the foundation, NSPCC, Help for Heroes and Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research. The JMF is a charity to promote healthy recreation young people in the UK, promoting opportunities in sports, in particular football, rugby and cricket.

His free-kick was stunning and quite fiendishly conceived. Fast and flat, yet swinging in viciously, it made a monkey of Joe Hart, who threw himself at it but emerged clutching thin air, and made for chaos on the goalline as bodies clashed frantically, trying for the last touch. Jones was first to the ball but headed it sideways and benefitted from a real slice of luck as the rebound off Vincent Kompany’s back sent it into the net. Credit Jones’s tenacity but also Van Persie’s delivery. He may not be scoring as freely as in the first half of the season, but his contribution to United’s reclamation of the title remains vast. So this was the title decider that wasn’t; not really. What a pity. Little was ever going to be sorted here that has not been sorted already. From here, Manchester City are not going to pull off the impossible, Manchester United are not about to become football’s Devon Loch.This was about local bragging rights and the precise location at which United could win the title.

​

Gutting: Wayne Rooney (left), Michael Carrick (centre) and Robin van Persie (right) wait to kick off again

No go: Carlos Tevez tries to flick the ball goalwards, but can't control his effort

Early chance: Robin van Persie (centre) lets fly from inside the City area

Big hittter: City captain Vincent Kompany stretches to nick the ball away from Van Persie

Dispute: Pablo Zabaleta (centre) argues with referee Mike Dean after the referee blew up for half-time

For City, worst case scenario and United could have had it wrapped up at Upton Park next week, which would have been an embarrassment. Providing both teams now keep winning, the likelier resolution is against Arsenal on April 28. Ferguson can afford to play patience.He picked an attacking side, but clearly sent it out with the instruction to anticipate City’s keenness and play on the counter attack. It made for a high quality, balanced contest, tactical and technical, but hardly hammer and tongs.There was plenty of fine attacking play, but little cutting edge, certainly in the first half.

Ready and waiting: Rooney takes the ball for a United corner as the City defence organise themselves

Raging: Roberto Mancini (right) was also on the pitch to complain to Dean about his timekeeping

Combative: Rooney tries to wriggle away from centre back Kompany

Welcome back: Wayne Rooney returned from injury to take on United's bitter rivals

Party time: City fans look delighted to gain revenge for the 3-2 defeat at the Etihad earlier this season

United created the one clear chance when Michael Carrick lofted the ball forward, Van Persie stayed the right side of the linesman’s flag to knock it on and Rafael clipped a neat shot past Hart but against the woodwork.There was a skirmish at the end as Aguero confronted Rio Ferdinand for not kicking the ball out to allow treatment on David Silva — the United man was well within his rights — and a flurry of yellow cards from referee Mike Dean. But this was not the match it could have been, indeed should have been.City needed to be playing for more than pride at this stage in the season. At least, however, they found that.

KOMPANY SEES THE FUNNY SIDE...

Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany joked that he 'can't stop scoring' after unwittingly putting the ball in his own net at Old Trafford. The Belgium international could not prevent Phil Jones' header bouncing off the back of his head and over Joe Hart's line midway through the second half in the Manchester derby, squaring things up at 1-1. The own goal comes just days after the centre half scored his first Premier League goal of the season against Newcastle last weekend.

And, after Sergio Aguero rifled his side to victory against the Premier League leaders, Kompany saw the funny side. He tweeted (above): 'Can't stop scoring. Lol. Phenomenal team performance! And to our fans.. #MCFC #MCFC #MCFC #MCFC #MCFC #MCFC #MCFC!! :-)' Kompany's team-mate Pablo Zabaleta also tweeted after the victory. He said: 'Very proud of our team!! This is the only thing I can say now and thanks so much to the @MCFC fans for the massive support tonight!!!'

Up close: Patrice Evra (right) climbs on James Milner as the pair fight for possession

Proud moment: Evra was joined by his son, Lenny, as Yaya Toure (back, right) chases Ryan Giggs

In attendance: Manchester United joint chairmen Joel Glazer (right) and Avram Glazer (centre) watch with David Gill (left)

Crocked: Serbia centre back Nemanja Vidic was not part of United's squad

Meeting of minds: Roberto Mancini (left) shakes hands with his opposite number Sir Alex Ferguson

Friend or foe: Former United striker Tevez (left) hugs Rooney (right) before the match started

Gloating: Home fans hold a banner to taunt their cross-city rivals ahead of the match
​

 

[Zieler]

Neville quits! Everton captain to walk away at the end of the season for fresh challenge

By DOMINIC KING PUBLISHED: 08:36 GMT, 9 April 2013 | UPDATED: 09:03 GMT, 9 April 2013

I'm off: Phil Neville will bid farewell to Everton

Phil Neville will end his eight-year Everton career this summer after confirming he will not sign a new contract. The Everton captain's current deal expires in June but no talks have taken place about extending his terms and, having spoken with manager David Moyes, he has reached a mutual decision to move on. Neville, who has made 295 appearances for Everton since he joined from Manchester United in August 2005, has made no secret that he wants to continue playing before embarking on a career in coaching or management.

However, he will not consider his next move until the end of the current campaign as he wants to try and help Everton qualify for Europe.Neville said: 'It’s been an honour to play for and captain Everton Football Club. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time on Merseyside and will leave with immense pride.

'I would like to thank the manager, chairman, all of the staff and the players at Everton for their continued support during my time at the club.'I’d also like to pay a special thanks to the fans, who have been amazing over the past eight years and Everton will always have a place in my heart. 'I want to continue to play at the top level as long as I physically can, and will be weighing up my options before making a decision on my next move. I’ll now be doing everything I can to help Everton finish as high up the league table as possible.'

Leader: Neville is still playing at the highest level in the Barclays Premier League

New beginnings: Neville is now a coach with England Under 21s

Moyes believes the £3.5million he spent to bring Neville from Old Trafford is one of the best pieces of business he has completed during his time at Goodison and the former England international has been one of his manager's most trusted lieutenants. He has not been able to exert the same kind of influence this season and has not played in the Barclays Premier League since February 10 in a 2-0 defeat against Manchester United. Neville's most recent appearance came against Wigan in the FA Cup on March 9 but though he has not figured as much as in previous years, Moyes has never made any secret of his admiration for the 36-year-old.

Glory years: Neville was part of the dominant United side in the early 2000s

Separated: Phil eventually left his brother Gary behind at Manchester United to join Everton

When Neville returned from cartilage surgery in December three weeks ahead schedule, Moyes said: 'The biggest thing that it should have on everyone in the squad is the impact of what he has done.'They should all be seeing it – they might not say it but I think they would all have to have admiration for how he continually prepares himself and the way he goes about playing. His mentality and attitude have been great since he came here. It says a lot about him.' Earlier this season, Neville - who won six titles and a Champions League with United - became only the seventh man to reach 500 Barclays Premier League appearances. He will be part of England's Under-21s coaching staff this summer at the European Championships in Israel.

He arrived as a former United star... he leaves as an Everton hero

Leaving his mark: Neville

By Dominic King

He is not the most skilful player at the club. Nor would he ever win a popularity contest among supporters. But, in many ways, Everton will find Phil Neville irreplaceable.

Having initially been regarded as 'the former Manchester United player' rather than an Evertonian, Neville has worked tirelessly over the last eight years to play a key part in their resurgence under David Moyes.

First into training every day, Neville has set a professional example to his colleagues, showing how to eke out every last drop of ability and make the most of a career as a footballer.

It is not by good fortune, though, that he has made more than 500 appearances in the Barclays Premier League and collected a trophy haul that is he envy of many. Either as a right-back or central midfielder, Neville has never given anything other than his best.

Being a captain of a club goes further the just leading the team out and contesting the con toss and Neville considers it a huge privilege to have worn Everton's armband. It is also a huge regret of his that he never got to lift a trophy in the role.

What the future holds for him remains unclear - he wants to channel all his energies into helping Everton finish as high as possible before making any decisions - but he will certainly leave a void in he squad.

Phil Jagielka will be his natural successor in the role and he is undoubtedly ready for the responsibility. If he has watched how Neville has gone about his duties in recent years and acts accordingly, he will be on the right track.

Following in his footsteps, however, will be no easy task.


​

 

[Zieler]

'The Premier League is only the best league in Asia' - Breitner

By Ian Capasso
Apr 10, 2013 3:35:00 PM

The German has launched a scathing attack on English football, saying it has ceased developing in recent years compared to the Bundesliga

Former Bayern Munich player and pundit Paul Breitner has slammed the Premier League and believes the Bundesliga has overtaken it to become the world's leading championship.

The 61-year-old ex-West Germany international, no stranger to controversy, has labelled the English top-flight as stagnant and concerned only with marketability.

With no English involvement in the semi-finals of the Champions League, but the possibility of two German representatives, Breitner is adamant that the Bundesliga is now the best league in the world.

"The Premier League used to be the best national league in the world until 2009," Breitner told ESPN's Bola da Vez in Brazil. "The Premier League is now only the best league in Asia.

"Which English team is still in the Champions League? None. That's because they have stopped improving, they have stopped developing their league a few years ago.

"They sat on top of the money and they said 'That's it'. They don't think about which players they could take there in order to improve their teams and the level of their football. They only want players with a name, to catch attention.

"The Premier League is out, totally out. The Bundesliga is now the best league in the world."

Breitner also lauded the competitiveness of the Bundesliga and praised the German football experience, ridiculing the stadia of England, Spain and Italy.

"If we talk about the Premier League, we talk about the big four," he continued. "Now, without Liverpool, it's the big three. In Spain, you have the big two. In the Bundesliga, we have the big two, but our other teams are in a great international level.

"This is all part of the development of the German football as a whole. And we're going to keep getting better and better, because of how we sell football.

"Starting with our stadiums. We have the best, most moderns, most comfortable arenas in the world. Go to England... It's laughable. Go to Spain... Laughable. Go to Italy... Oh my God!

"We knew, since 2006, that we'd need to do a lot to improve our football. Now every stadium is full, every match is sold out. And this will only improve."

 

[Zieler]

Fergie's time will never end: United legend Charlton backs Ferguson to 'go on for ever'

By JOHN EDWARDS PUBLISHED: 14:25 GMT, 10 April 2013 | UPDATED: 17:06 GMT, 10 April 2013


Sir Bobby Charlton fired an ominous warning to Manchester United’s main title rivals by insisting Sir Alex Ferguson looks like he will ‘go on forever.’ The United manager is closing in on his 13th Barclays Premier League crown at the ripe old age of 71, but any thoughts of bowing out after avenging last season’s late surrender to bitter rivals Manchester City could not be further from his mind, according to Sir Bobby.‘There is nothing in his posture that suggests he is beginning to tire,’ said the United director. ‘Far from being tired, he has the same enthusiasm as ever. He is an unbelievable character, and I don’t see him ever losing that drive and enthusiasm.

Carry on, Fergie: Sir Bobby Charlton says Sir Alex Ferguson will go on for ever at Manchester United

‘He tried to retire once, and it was an absolute failure. Everyone wants to know the answer to that, because he can’t go on for ever. But I look at him and think that’s exactly what he will do.‘He is a fantastic lover of football, and he is very clever when it comes to identifying a player he wants and coming to the board about it. He knows exactly what to do in those situations, and, to be fair, we try to give him exactly what he wants.‘We haven’t got many directors at Old Trafford, and we adopt the view that we need good players to be a top team and that the manager is the best person to decide on who they should be.

United heroes: Sir Bobby Charlton and Denis Law get together at Soccerex in Manchester

'We look after the business side of things, Alex the football side, and we give him what he wants. We leave pretty much everything to Alex, in a football sense.‘The rivalry with City, and the way they have re-emerged, has probably provided him with an extra incentive. He just hates losing, no matter who the opposition are, and the defeat on Monday night will have hurt him.

'But the great thing is, he will pinpoint exactly why we lost and make sure it doesn’t happen again.’

Class of 68: Charlton exchanges shirts with former Benfica and Portugal legend Eusebio

A World Cup winner in 1966, Sir Bobby despairs of England ever lifting the trophy again. ‘When I’m asked about our prospects, I always feel obliged to say we’ve got a chance, but really it’s a fool’s errand,’ he said. ‘If so many places in Premier League teams are taken up by foreign players, we’ve got no chance.‘Spain are absolutely my favourites for the finals in Brazil. Heaven forbid, but Germany are in with a chance as well, because they are so well coached, and Holland seem to be re-emerging as well.’
​

 

[General Veers]

Manchester City can reclaim the title next season, says Silva
Roberto Mancini's men trail Manchester United by 12 points at the summit despite Monday's derby victory but the Spaniard is certain that the 2013-14 campaign will be different

Everton eye Porto boss Pereira as potential Moyes successor
Goodison Park chairman Bill Kenwright is ready to target the Portuguese, who is out of contract in the summer, as the Merseysiders prepare for a possible change at the helm

Police investigating Kompany racial abuse claims
The Belgian defender appeared to be subjected to abuse by a supporter during a television interview following Monday's victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford

Mourinho equals Sir Alex Ferguson's record of seven semi-finals in the Champions League
The Portuguese coach had reached the last four on six previous occasions and has now drawn level with the Manchester United boss after Real Madrid got past Galatasaray on Tuesday

Tottenham Under-21 coach lauds Kaboul following injury return
Chris Ramsey has spoken of the Frenchman's "fantastic attitude" after he stepped up his bid for full fitness with an hour-long appearance for the club's reserve side

'I will return, almost certainly' - Benitez talks up Liverpool comeback
The 52-year-old is set to leave Chelsea in the summer and is keen to take control of a top team in the future - revealing a potential switch back to the Reds could be possible

Marveaux: Newcastle not safe from relegation
The 26-year-old believes the Magpies could yet be dragged into the battle at the bottom despite their last-gasp win over Fulham on Sunday

Evra desperate to bounce back from Manchester derby defeat
The defender admitted the loss at Old Trafford was "painful" and insists his side's next match against Stoke City at the Britannia Stadium will be difficult

'I'm still an Interista at heart' - QPR's Julio Cesar rules out AC Milan move
The Brazilian could leave Loftus Road if Harry Redknapp's side are relegated from the Premier League, but has refuted talk of a move to Rossoneri due to his loyalty to Inter

Manchester City to offer Aguero new deal to ward off Real Madrid interest
The Argentine has three years left on his current deal, while the Premier League champions are unconcerned over reports linking the striker with a switch to Spain

Tottenham players can feel fans' tension, admits Dempsey
The midfielder says he is wary of the atmosphere at White Hart Lane as Andre Villas-Boas' men have faltered in the race for Champions League qualification in recent weeks

Champions League qualification is Chelsea's main aim, says Mikel
The Nigeria international says the Blues are desperate to be back in the competition as they do not feel the same "buzz" when playing on Thursday nights in the Europa League

Liverpool much improved under Rodgers, insists Johnson
Despite reaching two domestic cup finals last term the full-back believes the squad's performances are more impressive this term under their new manager

Lampard Chelsea exit claims denied following kit launch absence
The 34-year-old was busy with family commitments and was unable to take part in the "demeaning" photoshoot, according to the England international's representative

'Liverpool meets my criteria' - Alderweireld interested in Anfield move
The 24-year-old Ajax defender has opened the door to a switch to Brendan Rodgers' side at the end of the season, but has ruled out joining a "mid-table" team such as Newcastle

 

[General Veers]

Wenger reserves praise for dropped Arsenal captain Vermaelen
The defender has been kept on the sidelines for his side's last four consecutive wins, but his manager is expecting a positive reaction when he returns against Norwich

Yaya Toure's new deal has given Manchester City a lift, says Barry
The England international believes that his team-mate's new contract will send out a strong signal of the club's intent, and will help to attract further talent

Liverpool boss Rodgers: Not the end of the world if we miss out on Europe
The 40-year-old manager says that despite enjoying their foreign travels this season, they could be better off next year if they miss out on a place in the Europa League

Wilshere & Walcott set for Arsenal return against Norwich City
The England pair have not played a game since March due to their respective injuries, but are now in line to make an appearance during the game at the Emirates

Mourinho has already decided his future, says Salgado
The 37-year-old believes the Madrid boss has already made up his mind and is set to return to the country where he enjoyed success with Chelsea

Liverpool starlet Ibe looking to learn from Cristiano Ronaldo
The 17-year-old has impressed for the club's youth teams this season but feels he needs to add more goals to his game, citing the Portuguese star as an example to follow

Arsenal & Manchester City in race to sign Dortmund star Gotze
The 20-year-old Germany international, who has a €40 million release clause, continues to be monitored by the Premier League duo this season

Arsenal confirm second pre-season friendly in Japan
The Gunners will start their tour of Asia by taking on the Indonesia national team in Jakarta on July 14 before heading to Japan to complete their tour of the continent

Stam: Van Persie is still world class despite goal drought
The 40-year-old ex-Manchester United defender feels that his former international team-mate is still contributing to the team, even though he has not scored in 10 games

Lucas tips future success for Liverpool after penning new deal
The 25-year-old feels the club still has a long way to go before they can compete at the top level, but insists they are now on the right track under manager Brendan Rodgers

Valencia: Manchester United still worried about late title slip-up
The 27-year-old winger believes Sir Alex Ferguson's side still can't take anything for granted despite their significant lead in the table, given last year's late dramatics

Manchester United on trail of Wigan starlet McCarthy
Old Trafford scouts have highlighted the 22-year-old Republic of Ireland international as a potential summer target, with Liverpool also monitoring the highly-rated midfielder

Arsenal make enquiry over €5m-rated Corchia
The Gunners recently asked about the availability of the promising 22-year-old right-back, who they see as a replacement for outgoing France international Bacary Sagna

Ferdinand: Manchester United don't get enough credit
The centre-back has claimed that Sir Alex Ferguson's side should be the favourites for Premier League success every year thanks to their recent dominance of English football

'There is no agreement' - Marseille and QPR officials refute Barton deal
The midfielder had taken to social media to make claims of a permanent switch to southern France which have since been denied by club executives

Lucas Leiva signs new long-term Liverpool contract
The Brazilian's previous deal was due to expire in 2015, and he says it was an "easy decision" to extend his stay at Anfield, for whom he has already made over 200 appearances

Ferguson was wrong to sell me, says Pique
The Barcelona defender believes his old boss made a mistake in allowing him to leave the club but remains grateful for his time at Old Trafford

Everton just as desperate for points as QPR, says Heitinga
The Toffees, chasing European qualification, take on Harry Redknapp's relegation-battling Hoops on Saturday with both sides locked in battles at opposite ends of the table

Wenger still has fire in his belly, says Dein
The ex-Gunners executive has spoken out in defence of the man he recruited to the London side in September 1996 and believes success is a matter of squad building

Benitez confirms Cahill underwent surgery on knee injury
The defender damaged his meniscus against West Ham on March 17 and is expected to sit out a further two weeks after undergoing an operation following the recent loss to Southampton

Bale & Ronaldo would suit Stoke's style brilliantly, says Pulis
The Potters are currently battling against relegation at the foot of the Premier League and the Welsh manager admits he would sign the star duo if he possessed an open chequebook

Milner refuses to give up on Manchester City's title tilt after derby success
The midfielder scored the opener in Monday's success at Old Trafford, and believes his side can still win the Premier League despite Manchester United's 12-point lead at the top

 

[General Veers]

Abramovich mulling over Benitez successor

By Ewan Roberts
Apr 10, 2013 5:40:00 PM

The Russian billionaire is already "thinking about" potential new managers according to the Blues’ chairman Bruce Buck

Chelsea chairman Bruce Buck has revealed club owner Roman Abramovich is already thinking about potential successors to Rafa Benitez.

The Spanish coach was installed as interim manager in November 2012, replacing Roberto Di Matteo, but his tenure has been permeated by off-field politics and fan hostility.

While the Blues’ Russian owner is already mulling over possible replacements, the search for a new manager – the 11th of the Abramovich era – won’t begin in earnest until the season is over.

"We really haven't started that yet, we all have some ideas, and certainly Abramovich is thinking about it, but at the moment we're concentrating on the end of the season," Buck told Al Jazeera.

"We're really trying to get top three or top four place in the Premier League so we get in the Champions League next year.

"That's really important for us and of course we're still in two big competitions - Uefa cup and FA cup - so I think the real search for a new manager will begin once the season ends in the middle of May."

Speculation has been rife that current Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho could return to Stamford Bridge, and Buck refused to rule out the possibility of Chelsea appointing a former manager.

"I am completely open minded about it," said the Blues’ chairman when questioned about the possibility of a past employee returning to the west London club.

 

[General Veers]

Manchester United's €176m training ground deal set for Uefa scrutiny

By Tom McKeown
Apr 11, 2013 3:30:00 PM

Shirt sponsor Aon signed a contract to rename their Carrington complex but the European governing body has revealed they will be checking the details under Financial Fair Play

Uefa is set to probe Manchester United’s proposed €176 million deal to sell the naming rights for their training ground to Aon.

The US insurance giants already sponsor United’s shirts and are now looking at renaming the Red Devils’ Carrington complex in an eight-year deal which will net the club almost $30m (€22.9m) a year.

But at the Soccerex European Forum Uefa general secretary Gianni Infantino revealed the deal will be scrutinised under Financial Fair Play regulations, and warned that penalties could be faced if rules have been broken.

"All of these questions will have to be analysed,” he told the forum.

"We have some senior judges who are used to taking difficult decisions. The chairman of the investigatory body is a former Belgian prime minister and the chairman of the adjudicatory body has been one of most senior judges of the European Court of Justice until last year they and know what they are doing.”

Infantino added all similar deals will be probed, including Manchester City’s €469m agreement with Etihad Airways to rename their stadium

"They will look at everything at every club,” he added.

"You don't know how exactly the deals [are done] and if there is something wrong. We have bodies for this. It's their job, not mine thank God.

"My job was to implement the regulation which is done and now it’s the job of others to analyse all deals and to see whether they are OK."

 

[General Veers]

Premier League ratifies Financial Fair Play proposals

By Tom McKeown
Apr 11, 2013 5:00:00 PM

After the proposals were approved by clubs in February, new rules which will cap wages and limit losses are set to come into effect next season ahead of Uefa's new regulations

The Premier League have ratified the agreement over Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations, Goal.com understands.

Chief executive Richard Scudamore was believed to be pressing for approval at a shareholders’ meeting on Thursday after club chairmen voted in favour of the proposals in February.

The earlier vote barely passed, however, with a two-thirds majority – required under Premier League rules – only reached through Reading’s decision to abstain.

Aston Villa, Fulham, Manchester City, Southampton, Swansea and West Brom are the clubs understood to have voted against the plans in February, but it appears the proposals have been given the go-ahead despite the “no” camp needing only one more vote.

Under Uefa rules, which come into effect from 2014-15, clubs have to minimise losses or face the possibility of being excluded from European competition, and Scudamore has confirmed any club breaking the Premier League’s agreed rules will face a points deduction.

The key points of the plans promise two major regulations which will limit players’ wage bills from next season and set a club loss limit of €123 million over three years.

The wage cap will start at €61m and increase by £4m each year to €70m in 2015-16, and only seven of the 20 current Premier League clubs are under that total at the moment.

 

[General Veers]

EXCLUSIVE: Hawk-eye awarded Premier League contract for goal-line technology from next season

By LAURA WILLIAMSON PUBLISHED: 09:43 GMT, 11 April 2013 | UPDATED: 13:21 GMT, 11 April 2013


British-based company Hawk-Eye have been awarded the contract to provide goal-line technology (GLT) for the Premier League next season.The decision is expected to be finalised at a Premier League meeting this afternoon, with final contracts signed in the next few weeks. Hawk-Eye missed out to German rivals GoalControl to provide GLT for the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup and 2014 World Cup in Brazil, but have been chosen to supply, install and maintain the technology at the 20 Premier League stadiums next season, as well as Wembley.

Testing: Hawk-Eye Goal Line Technology was trailed at St Mary's Stadium

The FA and Premier League ran a joint tender process and invited Hawk-Eye and the three other FIFA-licensed companies - GoalControl, GoalRef and Cairos, all of which are based in Germany – to apply.MailOnline understands Hawk-Eye’s camera-based system – which costs around £250,000 per ground – will be installed in stadiums over the summer months, with the FA keen to use GLT for the first time at the Community Shield in mid-August. The technology will also be used in the FA Cup, from the third round onwards in any stadium already equipped with GLT.

End of the errors? Manuel Neuer watches the ball bounce over the line from Frank Lampard

Net gains: John Terry makes a controversial clearance in England's 1-0 win over Ukraine at Euro 2012

FA General Secretary Alex Horne told BBC Sport earlier this week: ‘I always thought it was an ideal piece of technology to allow into the game. The (Premier League) club meeting is on Thursday so I'm expecting it to go through at that meeting.’‘There are occasions (when GLT is needed) and we've seen them here at Wembley, we've seen them in World Cups, we've seen them 11 or 12 times in the Premier League this season alone.

Over? Geoff Hurst scores England's controversial third goal in the 1966 World Cup final

Support: FA secretary Alex Horne is behind the idea of goal-line technology

‘So technology that says 'yes, the ball has crossed the line' and lets the referee know makes an awful lot of sense to me.‘Particularly where it's a knock-out situation, incorrect decisions have less opportunity to even themselves out over a season.’The Premier League are likely to ‘centrally fund’ GLT for its member clubs and the FA will pay for cameras to be installed at Wembley.The head of Spain's La Liga said it would follow suit and bring in goal-line technology in two or three years. Francisco Roca Perez told the Soccerex conference: "We are truly advocates for technology and we will look at the systems and the cost.

'We are not going to be as quick as the Premier League but we are in favour of the system. 'I expect that in two or three years we will be able to do something like this either with technology that we buy or that we create ourselves.'

​

 

[Zieler]

Like father, like son: Van der Sar Jnr signs up with Ajax just like Edwin 25 years ago

By JOHN DRAYTON PUBLISHED: 12:12 GMT, 11 April 2013 | UPDATED: 15:54 GMT, 11 April 2013


The son of Edwin van der Sar will join Ajax's famed academy from next season, following in his legendary father's footsteps. Goalkeeper Joe has previously trained with Manchester United but returned to Holland when Van der Sar senior retired in 2011.

Safe hands: Edwin van der Sar's son Joe, pictured here playing for a Manchester United development squad on the day of his dad's testimonial, has been signed up by Ajax

Remind you of anyone? Clad in yellow, Edwin during his United years

Footsteps: Van der Sar Snr started his illustrious career in the Dutch capital

Edwin, who won the Champions League and Premier League with Manchester United, as well as the Dutch title at Ajax during an illustrious career which also yielded a record 130 international caps, has been acting as marketing director of his first club since November.And now his son has begun the road to replicating the career of his legendary father. Not that the now retired stopper wants to apply too much pressure.

'Yes, he will go to Ajax,' the 42-year-old told Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf. 'For the rest I don't want to say anything about it. Joe will of course get a hard time anyway due to his surname.'Joe already has experience of playing at the Amsterdam Arena, after he turned out in front of 53,000 people on the night of his father's testimonial.

Before the likes of Wayne Rooney, Rio Ferdinand, Ryan Giggs, Edgar Davids, Dennis Bergkamp and Frank de Boer appeared on the pitch, Manchester United and Ajax development squads faced off, with Joe playing in goal for the English side.

Since returning to his homeland, Joe has turned out for amateur club VV Noordwijk.

Safe hands: Edwin van der Sar's son Joe, pictured here playing for a Manchester United development squad on the day of his dad's testimonial, has been signed up by Ajax
​