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Arsenal fan in Uganda left homeless after losing bet on Manchester United game
Wednesday 13 Nov 2013 12:32 pm
Robin Van Persie’s winner cost one Arsenal fan his home (Picture: AP)
Arsene Wenger may have been left seething by Arsenal’s loss at Old Trafford on Sunday, but the result was a whole lot more damaging for one reckless supporter in Uganda.
Gunners mad Henry Dhabasani has been left homeless after betting his house on the result of the game with Manchester United fan Rashid Yiga.
In return Yiga staked his new car, and his wife, that David Moyes’ men would triumph.
However, it was Dhabasani who came out on the short end of the result after Robin Van Persie’s first-half header settled the match in United’s favour.
Arsene Wenger was left dejected at the result (Picture: AP)
So serious was the bet that the two men put down the stake in writing with local leaders and fellow fans drafted in as witnesses.
The Ugandan Observer reports that Dhabasani, who has three wives and five kids, fainted at the end of the match as the result of his folly sank in.
He was evicted on Monday after several United fans stormed his home and threw him and his family out.
David Beckham still got it as Neymar and David Luiz clamour for picture with England star
Wednesday 13 Nov 2013 10:54 am
Becks appeal still strong as Neymar and Luiz clamour for picAmigos: Luiz, Beckham and Neymar (Picture: Twitter)
David Beckham showed he was still down with the kids by being the centre of attention for Brazilian duo Neymar and David Luiz in Miami.
The former England captain posed for pictures with the star-struck pair ahead of Brazil’s friendly with Honduras at the Sun Life Stadium.
Beckham, who has reportedly chosen Miami as the destination to start a Major League Soccer franchise, will likely be in the crowd on Saturday to watch Neymar, 21, and Luiz, 26, in action.
The retired midfielder, 38, agreed the rights to purchase a franchise with a 25 per cent discount in his contract with the MLS when he signed for LA Galaxy.
Two greats: Neymar with Beckham (Picture: Instagram Neymarjr)
Navas: I joined Manchester City to win titles The Spain international was concerned that he would not be able to add to his collection of medals with Sevilla, and is keen to grow and improve as a player with the Etihad outfit
Newcastle defender Steven Taylor apologises for 'racist' tweet The defender's response to a tweet from team-mate Massadio Haidara mocking his linguistic skills has caused controversy, forcing the 27-year-old to apologise and delete the message
Shaw looking to prove Southampton credentials against Chelsea and Arsenal The 18-year-old full-back is keen to continue the Saints' strong early form, which has catapulted them to third, when they take on the London sides after the international break
Allen eager to make his mark at Liverpool The Welsh midfielder has endured a "frustrating" period on the sidelines with a hamstring injury but intends to win back his place in the starting XI after returning to action
Bendtner reiterates desire to leave Arsenal The Denmark international, who has grown frustrated with the furore surrounding his future, hopes to leave the club in January and insists money will play no part in his decision
Lampard to decide Chelsea future after World Cup The veteran midfielder hopes to do as well as possible with England in Brazil before committing to his next step, his latest deal at Stamford Bridge due to expire in the summer
'An honour to play with Ozil at Arsenal' - Monreal The left-back was surprised that Madrid let the midfielder go, though his own second-choice status gives him concerns over his World Cup place
Meulensteen: Manchester United experience will aid Fulham Sir Alex Ferguson's former first-team coach is hopeful his partnership with Martin Jol will prove fruitful and secure Premier League football next season at Craven Cottage
Sir Alex Ferguson autobiography: Jaap Stam to Roma? 45 factual inaccuracies lead to publishers offering one customer a refund
Errors include Ryan Giggs' age when he made his United debut, and who Stam was sold to
JAMES ORR Monday 18 November 2013
After eagle-eyed readers noticed errors in Sir Alex Ferguson's autobiography, one customer who complained has been offered a full refund from publishers Hodder and Stoughton.
45 factual inaccuracies were found in the 402-page book, including the age of Ryan Giggs when he made his debut, plus the year Ferguson had his pacemaker fitted.
My Autobiography was released last month and has since become the UK’s fastest-selling non-fiction book, selling 115,547 copies in its first week on sale. But can the tome now be classed as a work of fiction?
It has been reported that Hodder and Stoughton CEO Jamie Hodder-Williams has replied by email to one customer who complained, offering a full refund in exchange for the return of the book.
Mr Hodder-Williams wrote: “We did in fact go through several stages of fact-checking with this book, with a reading from within Manchester United as well as from a specialist football fact-checker.
“Although a very large number of corrections were made we plainly did not pick up everything.
“Possible corrections that have so far been helpfully pointed out are being checked and will be included in future reprints.
“I am sorry that you feel that your expenditure on the book was not worthwhile. If you would like to send the book to me at our head office address, stating where you bought the book and at what price, we will refund your expenditure and postage.”
Included among the 45 inaccuracies are the age of Giggs when he made his Manchester United debut – the book says the Welshman was 16, when in fact he was 17.
Jaap Stam was sold to Lazio in 2001, not Roma
Other errors which have made the cut are the years that Roy Keane served with the club – Ferguson said it was 11, but it was 12, the year United became a Plc – 1990 not 1991, the year he got his pacemaker fitted – it was 2004, not 2002, and even who he sold Dutch defender Jaap Stam to – the manager said it was Roma, but it was actually Lazio.
Stam, Giggs, and Keane - here's the best of the worst
“…transfer of Jaap Stam to Roma and Massimo Taibi to Reggina”
- Jaap Stam moved to Lazio, Taibi did, however, move to Reggina
"Awarding him with his first-team debut at 16 landed us with a problem we had not expected: the Giggs phenomenon.”
- Ryan Giggs was in fact 17 when he made his Manchester United debut
“We had 11 years out of Roy”
- Roy Keane played for Manchester United for over 12 years
Rio Ferdinand excelled against Manchester City in the semi-final second leg [of the Carling Cup] in 2009 at Old Trafford
- This match was in 2010, not 2009
- Ferguson claimed in the book to have had his pacemaker fitted in 2002, but the procedure was done in 2004
“From the moment Manchester United became a Plc in 1990”
- Manchester United became a public limited company in 1991
“[Wayne Rooney] was then picked by Sven-Goran Eriksson for the vital World Cup qualifier against Turkey"
- The match in question, Rooney’s first England start was a Euro, not World Cup qualifier
“The penultimate Chelsea kick, which Salomon Kalou took, when Edwin dived to his left...”
- In the Champions League final in 2008, Edwin van der Sar dived to his right for Kalou’s successful penalty
Oscar has revealed that there were ‘talks’ about him moving to Real Madrid in 2012 before he eventually signed for Chelsea.
The Brazilian youngster moved to Stamford Bridge just over a year ago from Internacional for a fee of just over €20m.
However, he has revealed this week that previous to that he had met with Jose Mourinho, who now his Chelsea manager, when he was still at Real Madrid last year.
“He came to me for the game in Denmark, before the Olympics,” Oscar has told Globoesporte today.
“There were talks but Madrid had the playmaker position well covered.
“There was interest and I knew that I was being looked at. After the game, though, I signed for Chelsea.
“When he arrived at Chelsea he spoke to me. He gives me confidence and I am trying to return that in the field.”
The Selecao coach believes the Chelsea boss was simply using the media to give him the upper hand over Barcelona when he criticised the Brazil star for diving
Brazil boss Felipe Scolari has hit out at Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho over his recent comments about Barcelona attacker Neymar.
Mourinho accused Neymar of diving in the wake of Barcelona's Champions League win over Celtic after the Brazilian was involved in an incident which saw Hoops midfielder Scott Brown shown a straight red card.
Scolari has criticised the Portuguese for his remarks, claiming the former Real Madrid boss is just trying to influence the media and referees ahead of any potential meeting with Barca this season.
"Every manager likes to use the media to their own benefit and Mourinho is doing just that," Scolari told The Guardian.
"He knows that Chelsea could play Barcelona in the Champions League sooner or later and he is already putting supporters, media and referees against Neymar.
"It's disappointing and Mourinho didn't really need to resort to that.
"We [Mourinho and I] get along but I find Mourinho's crusade against Neymar absurd."
Neymar has been in fine form for Barcelona since his summer transfer from Santos, scoring five goals in all competitions.
World Cup can boost Newcastle, says Pardew
Alan Pardew is urging his World Cup-bound stars to hone themselves for their trip to Brazil by re-establishing Newcastle as a Premier League force.
Taarabt enjoying sessions with Meulensteen
Adel Taarabt did not know much about Rene Meulensteen before his appointment at Fulham, but is loving life under the "unbelievable" new head coach.
Rodgers urges patience for promising Hughes
Brendan Rodgers insists younger players have to be given time to develop and being fast-tracked into Liverpool's first team is not always beneficial.
We will deal with Liverpool duo, says Martinez
Everton boss Roberto Martinez is confident his team can deal with Liverpool's fearsome forward pairing.
Allardyce to unleash Morrison on Chelsea
Manager Sam Allardyce hopes Ravel Morrison can help West Ham upset Chelsea in Saturday's London derby.
Time out will help Hart, says Pellegrini
Manuel Pellegrini remains convinced Joe Hart will benefit from his spell out of the Manchester City side.
Pochettino proud of Saints' England pair
Adam Lallana and Jay Rodriguez enjoyed differing fortunes on their England debuts, but Mauricio Pochettino only sees the past fortnight as being positive for them and Southampton.
Anderson content to stick with United for now
Manchester United's Anderson is happy to play the waiting game just now - but knows he cannot hang around forever to prove he is worthy of a place at Old Trafford.
Liverpool hit by Enrique blow ahead of derby
Liverpool's preparations for the Merseyside derby have suffered a blow after Jose Enrique was ruled out with a long-term knee injury.
Solskjaer hails Fletcher's resolve
Former Manchester United striker Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has praised Darren Fletcher's mental resolve and backed the Scot to complete a remarkable return to top-level action.
Hull City fans offered refund over name change
Hull owner Assem Allam has offered to refund any of the club's season ticket holders who are unhappy about the name change he has proposed for the Yorkshire side.
Riley apologies for Hazard penalty
West Brom have received an apology from referees' chief Mike Riley for the penalty awarded against them in the draw with Chelsea earlier this month.
Stoke's Agudelo deal off
Stoke have been denied a work permit for United States striker Juan Agudelo,
Rodgers denies Liverpool have agreed deal for Will Hughes The Reds boss has hit out at talk suggesting that the club are set to bring the highly-rated England Under-21 international to Anfield during the January transfer window
Anderson determined to stay and prove his worth at Manchester United The midfielder says he loves life at Old Trafford and has vowed to get back into David Moyes' first team, while he is also targeting a place in Brazil's World Cup squad
Manchester City target €12m wonderkid Zouma Club officials have earmarked the 19-year-old Frenchman as an ideal solution to Manuel Pellegrini's defensive problems and are confident of securing a deal for him in January
Pochettino confident of Arsenal scalp The Argentine's rampant Southampton side host the Gunners at St Mary's on Saturday, and he believes they are more than capable of denting Arsene Wenger's title hopes
Chelsea & West Brom wrangle over fee for wonderkid Isaiah Brown The two top-tier clubs could be heading for the first Premier League tribunal since the overhaul of youth football after talks on a fee for the 16-year-old reached an impasse
Inter move 'perfect' for Southampton outcast Ramirez - agent The Uruguay international has not made a single Premier League start this season and is considering a return to Italy to kick-start his career ahead of the World Cup
Enrique needs knee surgery, reveals Rodgers The Liverpool boss says the Spaniard has suffered a setback in his recovery from injury and will now need an operation which could mean a lengthy spell on the sidelines
My England World Cup spot not guaranteed, admits Wilshere The 21-year-old has struggled to impose himself for the Gunners this season and concedes he must improve to ensure he makes Roy Hodgson's final World Cup squad
Szczesny: Arsenal will win a trophy this season The Poland international is adamant the Gunners have enough quality to claim silverware even if manager Arsene Wenger does not bolster the squad with new signings in January
Suarez controversies have made me a better manager, says Rodgers The Northern Irishman believes the Uruguayan striker has acknowledged his recent wrong-doings and is now firmly committed to the Merseyside club after courting interest in summer
Agent: Gomis nearing Premier League switch The France international had been heavily linked with Roma and Lazio, but his representative has revealed that he is in talks with "several" English clubs
Manchester United enter Draxler race The Schalke youngster has attracted interest from Europe's biggest clubs in recent months and the English champions have now joined the chase
By talkSPORT (@talkSPORT) | Thursday, November 21, 2013
Liverpool ace Luis Suarez has been offered to Spanish giants Real Madrid, according to Spanish newspaper Marca
Liverpool ace Luis Suarez has been offered to Spanish giants Real Madrid, according to Spanish newspaper Marca.
The Uruguay forward was subject to much speculation after revealing his desire to leave Anfield in the summer, but he ended up remaining on Merseyside following a failed bid from Arsenal.
However, Marca claim the 26-year-old was extremely close to joining Real Madrid during the last transfer window and that his agent Pere Guardiola had reached an agreement with the Bernabeu club over the length of Suarez's contract, salary and transfer fee.
It is also believed that Suarez had reached an agreement with Liverpool to join Real Madrid if the capital club offered a fee of £39m.
However, Real's interest cooled due to the protracted nature of Gareth Bale's transfer from Tottenham and president Florentino Perez's concerns over Suarez's controversial nature.
But Real boss Carlo Ancelotti is still keen on Suarez - although it is uncertain if he will revive his interest in January, despite the fact the Uruguayan is not cup-tied for the Champions League.
Allardyce: Our strikers aren't delivering... and we're still not sure when Carroll will
be back
By SAM CUNNINGHAM PUBLISHED: 12:53 GMT, 21 November 2013 | UPDATED: 15:38 GMT, 21 November 2013
Sam Allardyce has criticised his strikers for their performances on the pitch and lack of goals this season. West Ham have kept seven clean sheets this season in 14 games and have only conceded 11 goals in the league, giving them one of the tightest defences in the top flight. Yet not one of his strikers has scored and Allardyce has had to rely on goals from midfield, with Ravel Morrison weighing in with five in 12 appearances and winger Ricardo Vaz Te netting four in nine.
Concerned: West Ham's lack of goals is a serious worry for their under-pressure manager Sam Allardyce
It has forced his hand to play with six in midfield, in front of a back four, with no out-and-out striker, which has had varying degrees of success. Allardyce explained: 'None of our strikers have created too many goalscoring opportunities when we've played them or taken the chances. We haven't got a prolific player in that area. Our strikers at the moment are not delivering goals in the game. 'We deliver chances to score. We scored v Tottenham. We haven't scored as many since then. At the end of day we may change it round, we've created some massive opportunities and outplayed a lot of teams since we played without a striker. If you play with striker you're lighter in midfield. Against Chelsea would they be more dominant? The tactical side worked vey well it's just end product hasn't been what we wanted.'
Major loss: Record signing Andy Carroll has proved difficult to replace as he continues to struggle for fitness
Flop: West Ham's Modibo Maiga has failed to take advantage of any opportunities in Carroll's absence
Pulling their weight: Ravel Morrison (left) and Ricardo Vaz Te have been chipping in with goals this season
The West Ham boss said there was no return date for the injured Andy Carroll, their record signing who was expected to get the goals this campaign. Allardyce tried to sign more strikers to partner Carroll in the summer transfer window, but revealed that their targets didn't want to join his club. And he admitted Carroll's injury took them by surprise. Allardyce added: 'We try to get a return date out of the doctors in Amsterdam. They're reluctant to give a clear indiction how long it'll be when he can join us back here and train with the squad and start getting into the team to play games. It's a great concern for us all, one we hadn't expected but we have to make sure we deal with it.'
Premier League Previews: game-by-game guide to the weekend's action
By Sport Magazine (@Sportmaguk) | Thursday, November 21, 2013
Everton v Liverpool; Saturday November 23; Goodison Park
Who is the best team on Merseyside?
It’s not a question that is easily answered. Everton have finished above Liverpool in the Premier League for the past two seasons, but the Toffees haven’t actually beaten their Red rivals in that same period – drawing two and losing two of their four league meetings.
So far this season it’s Liverpool who have the upper hand, with seven wins to Everton’s five putting them three points ahead. It’s not difficult to see where the difference between the teams lies, though, with Liverpool’s free-scoring strike partnership of Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge helping them to a tally of 21 goals – the third highest in the league.
Everton have scored 14 so far – with none of those goals coming in their previous two games against Crystal Palace and Tottenham. Roberto Martinez’s side remain unbeaten at home, though, and have kept six clean sheets in 11 games, meaning the SAS duo might find life slightly more complicated than against Fulham last time out.
Suarez has scored on his past two visits to Goodison Park, stealing the headlines in last season’s 2-2 with his celebratory swallow dive in front of David Moyes. The former Everton boss paid for his pre-match suggestion that the Uruguayan was prone to going down easily – not something Martinez is likely to repeat.
An angry Suarez is a goalscoring Suarez. We’d argue he’s permanently angry.
Arsenal v Southampton; Saturday November 23; Emirates Stadium
The tightest defence in the league takes on an Arsenal side that had scored in 15 straight league matches until Manchester United put a stop to that. Southampton have conceded a miserly five in the league so far – a stat that will give them hope ahead of a trip to the Emirates, where they took a 6-1 hammering last season. Arsenal could be bolstered by the return from injury of ex-Saints man Theo Walcott, whose pace on the wing has been missed.
Fulham v Swansea; Saturday November 23; Craven Cottage
Crunch time for Fulham. After three league defeats on the bounce – in which they’ve conceded nine goals – boss Martin Jol knows he’s on borrowed time. Heck, the club has already put his replacement in situ, masquerading as a new head coach. Former Man United coach Rene Meulensteen claims he and Jol “share a vision of how football should be played”. Swansea will hope that’s the same vision Fulham have employed for the past month.
Hull v Crystal Palace; Saturday November 23; KC Stadium
Hull last won this fixture in 2008, when both teams were in the Championship. Since then, Crystal Palace have twice taken all three points, with the remaining four games ending in draws. Those games will feel like a long time ago now for Palace fans who have seen their team win just once this season. The Eagles’ run of seven straight defeats ended with a draw against Everton last time out, but in Hull they face a side unbeaten at home.
Newcastle v Norwich; Saturday November 23; St James’ Park
It has been 25 years since Norwich last won at St James’ Park. But the more concerning number for ex-Newcastle boss Chris Hughton will be the 21 in the goals conceded column for the Canaries, equal to bottom of the table Crystal Palace. Newcastle have lost at home only once in the league so far this term and have won two in a row since a painful defeat in the Tyne-Wear derby. Make it three in a row and that loss will sting just a bit less.
Stoke v Sunderland; Saturday November 23; Britannia Stadium
Stoke are without a home win in the league since the second game of the season, while the visitors to the Britannia haven’t won on the road since April. Mark Hughes’ side are only just clear of the relegation zone having not won in the league since August. They have steadied the ship a little with two draws in as many games, including the 3-3 thriller with Swansea. The Mackems arrive on the back of a steely display that saw them beat Man City last time out.
West Ham v Chelsea; Saturday November 23; Upton Park
A year ago, Carlton Cole scored the goal that put West Ham en route to a 3-1 victory against Chelsea – their first win over the Blues since 2003. In the 12 months since, Cole has left the club and then come back, while Chelsea have seen a return of their own in manager Jose Mourinho. Neither comeback can yet be called a success, with Cole making a few ineffective appearances off the bench and Mourinho’s ‘special’ touch not yet having its desired effect.
Manchester City v Tottenham; Sunday November 24; Etihad Stadium
Two sides needing to get their league campaigns back on track meet on Sunday after each suffering a surprise defeat. Man City’s struggles away from home continued as they lost at the Stadium of Light, while Tottenham couldn’t find a way past Newcastle’s Tim Krul, despite having 14 shots on target at White Hart Lane. City are unbeaten at home in the league, but Spurs have travelled well, winning three times so far this term.
Cardiff City v Manchester United; Sunday November 24; Cardiff City Stadium
Toe and groin niggles mean Robin van Persie has had his feet up since Man United’s win over Arsenal. But manager David Moyes will hope that the rest has cured the Dutchman of his ills in time for a tricky trip to Cardiff. Injuries have already ruled out Michael Carrick and Phil Jones, while ex-United man Fraizer Campbell will be keen to get on the scoresheet for the first time since his brace helped Cardiff beat Man City in August.
West Brom v Aston Villa; Monday November 25; The Hawthorns
Nothing has separated these West Midlands sides in the past 270 minutes of football they’ve played against one another. The Baggies were the last side to claim bragging rights, winning 2-1 at Villa Park in October 2011, after a red card for Chris Herd reduced Villa to ten men. Little separates them so far this term either, although West Brom will feel it should be more after Chelsea’s last-minute penalty robbed them of a win last time out.
Southampton's Adam Lallana is looking forward to taking on Arsenal (AAP file)
By Samuel Petrequin
After losing to Manchester United, Premier League leader Arsenal will host surprise package Southampton.
The Gunners are two points clear at the top but will be facing a team that has lost only one game this season.
Second-place Liverpool travels to Everton in the Merseyside derby and Manchester United is looking to continue its recovery at Cardiff, chasing a fourth consecutive win.
Here are five things to know about the weekend's Premier League matches:
MARCHING ON
At this stage last season, Southampton was second-to-last in the Premier League standings under former coach Nigel Adkins. His successor, Mauricio Pochettino, has transformed the team into one of the most entertaining sides in England with a bunch of young and athletic players displaying a pressing game.
The Saints have secured good results at Liverpool and Manchester United and are confident they can hand the Gunners a second home defeat this season.
"It's a massive game. It's top versus third so why can't we go there and get a result?" said midfielder Adam Lallana, who is in contention for a place in England's team for the World Cup. "We've done it at Old Trafford and at Anfield already this season, so the lads will be full of confidence and I'm really looking forward to it."
Southampton is not only pressuring opposition with its free-flowing style of play, the team is also boasting the league's best defensive record, conceding only five goals.
"We know it's going to be one of hardest test to date because Arsenal are playing well at the minute," England striker Rickie Lambert said. "It's going to be tough, but we're confident that we can go there and get something."
DOUBTFUL WILSHERE
The Gunners could be missing one of their key players as midfielder Jack Wilshere picked up an ankle injury while playing in a friendly with England against Germany.
According to the British media, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger had asked England coach Roy Hodgson not to risk Wilshere but the player came in as a substitute before taking a knock on his ankle.
Arsenal received more positive news this week, with Theo Walcott's expected return against Southampton after the winger recovered from an abdominal injury.
SEEKING COACH
It's been a month since Ian Holloway stepped down as manager of last-place Crystal Palace, but the club has yet to fill the vacant job.
A number of coaches have been linked with the role over the past three weeks, with Aitor Karanka and Rene Meulensteen both deciding to sign for other clubs.
Tony Pulis is now the bookmaker's favourite, with the former Stoke manager in advanced talks with the south London club. Former Palace player Geoff Thomas has also offered his services to the club.
"There are a few jobs that I would take no questions asked and if Palace came knocking that would be it, my bags would be packed immediately," Thomas said.
NEWCASTLE'S EXAMPLE
Apart from Everton vs. Liverpool, there is another big derby in the Premier League on Saturday: West Ham vs. Chelsea.
Chelsea has won only one of its last five league matches away. And after Newcastle defeated the Blues 2-0 earlier this month with a gritty performance, West Ham manager Sam Allardyce is encouraging his players to take a similar approach to the game.
"Newcastle frustrated Chelsea and started the process of winning that game by keeping a clean sheet and scoring a free kick then sucked them in and hit them on the break for the second," Allardyce said. "With that result for Chelsea, there's a chance to see where their weaknesses lie. But anything less than top form for all of our players would make life difficult for us. We will have to produce the end product because chance creation will be harder."
West Ham scored only two goals in its last five matches and the club is dangerously flirting with the relegation zone.
"Our chance conversion is among the worst and that has to improve," Allardyce said. "To take the pressure off us all we need results. We haven't achieved that so far, and we need to turn the performances into results."
ENRIQUE SURGERY
Liverpool will be missing defender Jose Enrique as the Reds will be bidding to end Roberto Martinez's perfect record at Goodison Park.
Enrique has been ruled out with a lingering knee injury which is likely to require surgery.
"Jose Enrique has been struggling for a little while with an injury," Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers said. "He will probably need an operation. It's a blow for us because he's a very talented player."
Lukaku considering Chelsea exit The striker, on loan at Everton, says he has not heard from anyone at Stamford Bridge in a couple of months and has to do what is best for his career
Gerrard could play as a centre-back, says Rodgers The Liverpool manager believes the veteran midfielder could extend his career even further by adopting a defensive role in the future, and is confident ahead of the trip to Hull
Sturridge in line for Hull City start, reveals Rodgers The 24-year-old has been struggling with a thigh injury and was restricted to a goalscoring substitute's appearance in the Merseyside derby
Moyes: Man Utd won't panic in January The Red Devils boss says he is keeping an open mind, but insists there is no point discussing Leighton Baines if Everton decide not to sell him
Cardiff City deserve credit for Ramsey rise, insists Mackay The Scot believes the Welshman's blistering form is a credit to the staff who nurtured him at the Bluebirds' academy prior to his move to the Emirates
Mourinho: Ask Lukaku why he went to Everton The Belgian has suggested he was forced out of Stamford Bridge on deadline day, but the Chelsea boss has challenged him to reveal the real reasons behind the move
No Giggs contract talks until the summer - Moyes The Manchester United boss believes the Welshman deserves to be ranked among the Premier League's greatest players, but says a potential new deal will have to wait
Cole attitude an 'example', says Mourinho The Chelsea boss insists the left-back has caused him no problems despite falling behind Cesar Azpilicueta in the pecking order at left-back in recent matches
Wenger: There will always be match-fixing in football The Frenchman fears the lack of money at lower levels of the game could encourage illegal activity
Giggs: If I had left Manchester United I would be finished by now The Welshman says he is lucky to have stayed at one club for his entire career and is keen to continue playing for the foreseeable future as he celebrates his 40th birthday
Mourinho: Chelsea will not buy a striker in January The Portuguese says there is no truth in the reports that he recently held a meeting over a move for Jackson Martinez, and also hit out at on-loan forward Romelu Lukaku
Wenger hails Cardiff's giant-killing exploits The Gunners boss highlighted the 3-2 win over Manchester City in August as a stark warning of the newly promoted side's ability to spring a surprise
Baines has not played his last game for Everton, insists Martinez The Spaniard says the Toffees cannot allow their best players to leave if they are going to challenge for honours and is hoping to strengthen his squad in January
Giggs: Manchester United apprenticeship toughened me up The veteran winger, who celebrates his 40th birthday on Friday, believes the strictness of the youth system at Old Trafford has been key to the longevity of his career
Beckham: I wanted to stay at Manchester United for my whole career The 38-year-old says he always felt he would end his career at Old Trafford and revealed his favourite ever goal was his strike from the halfway line against Wimbledon in 1996
Villas-Boas ready for Manchester United test The Tottenham boss has come under pressure of late following back-to-back losses to Newcastle and Manchester City - the latter a 6-0 defeat - and is keen to reverse their fortunes
Arsenal target FA Cup third round for Oxlade-Chamberlain return The midfielder's comeback is set to be delayed until his side enter the tournament in early January as he makes a slow recovery from the knee injury that he sustained in August
Manchester United ready to resist Juventus loan offer for Nani The Bianconeri want to sign a right-sided outside forward when the transfer window opens, but the Premier League champions are unwilling to entertain a temporary deal
Buoyed by its biggest away win in Europe in nearly 50 years, Manchester United is in the mood to pile more pressure on Tottenham and its under-fire manager Andre Villas-Boas in the standout match in the Premier League this weekend.
At the start of the season, Tottenham vs. United would be viewed as a match between two possible title contenders but both sides are currently out of the top four after an unpredictable first three months of the campaign.
Spurs have been the biggest let-downs so far, scoring just nine goals in 12 matches and slumping to ninth place in the standings after an embarrassing 6-0 loss at Manchester City last weekend.
Arsenal holds a four-point lead heading into the latest round and it is free-scoring Manchester City which appears to be the team most likely to challenge Arsene Wenger's side over the next few weeks.
Here are five things to know about this weekend's matches:
AVB IN BULLISH MOOD
If the pressure is building on Andre Villas-Boas, he's not exactly showing it.
Some British bookmakers have made him odds-on favourite to be the next Premier League manager to lose his job after the drubbing at City, but the Portuguese coach was defiant this week.
"I have the confidence of the board, I have the confidence of my players," Villas-Boas said.
He may not have that confidence for too much longer if Spurs stay languishing in mid-table, especially considering they spent more than 100 million pounds ($160 million) over the summer on mainly attacking players.
Gareth Bale may have gone, for a world-record fee to Real Madrid, but with the wealth of attacking options at his disposal, Villas-Boas should be getting more out of his team than he is at present.
"You don't expect results like (the 6-0 loss to City) to happen," Villas-Boas said. "They normally happen to big teams once every 10 or 20 years."
UNITED FINDS ATTACKING GROOVE
Given that Man United is next up for Spurs, the last thing Villas-Boas needed was the reigning English champions to find their attacking grove.
But that's exactly what happened on Wednesday when David Moyes' team crushed Bayer Leverkusen 5-0 in the Champions League for United's biggest victory away from home in Europe since 1964.
Moyes saw Wayne Rooney set up four goals, out-of-form wingers Nani and Antonio Valencia get on the scoresheet and tireless midfielder Ryan Giggs, who turns 40 on Friday, produce another vintage display.
United drew 2-2 at Cardiff on Saturday to slip out of the Champions League positions but a result like that against Leverkusen can shape a season.
"It was one of my best days as Manchester United manager," Moyes said, "but the best days are still to come."
CITY CAN'T STOP SCORING
When Man City won the Premier League two seasons ago under Roberto Mancini, it was the power of their attacking play that underpinned the team's title charge.
Under Mancini's successor, Manuel Pellegrini, the goals are flowing again.
In its 10 home games this season in all competitions, City has scored 41 times - 22 coming in the last four matches at Etihad Stadium.
In Sergio Aguero, City has a player that Pellegrini believes is the third best player in the world behind Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. He has 12 goals in his last nine games, and 16 in all this season.
And strike partner Alvaro Negredo has also scored 11 goals in his first season at City.
"I think they are the best (partnership) in the league," City winger Jesus Navas said. "They are scoring very easily at the moment. The Premier League suits their style."
ARSENAL SITTING PRETTY
After stretching its lead to four points by beating Southampton 2-0 on Saturday, Arsenal can rest easy knowing it will be top of the Premier League for at least another week - whatever happens at Cardiff on Sunday.
And Wenger's team can expect a real test at Cardiff City Stadium, a ground where Man City has already lost this season and where United dropped two points on Sunday.
The match will see Aaron Ramsey, arguably the Premier League's player of the season so far, play against the side where he started his career and with whom he had a second spell on loan.
"We are hungry to win trophies and win games," Ramsey said of Arsenal's title hopes. "That is no different this season to any other, but in the past we've got off to bad starts and had to play catch up.
"We've created a fantastic opportunity for ourselves in the early part of this season and hopefully we can continue that."
ALLARDYCE FEELING THE HEAT
Villas-Boas isn't the only manager feeling the heat after a lacklustre result last weekend.
Sam Allardyce, renowned for his direct, long-ball approach, will never completely win over West Ham fans brought up on a diet of neat, passing football from its teams down the years.
Keeping the Hammers up last season spared "Big Sam" from some criticism but they are currently struggling at fourth from bottom in the wake of a 3-0 home loss to Chelsea on Saturday.
For recent matches, Allardyce hasn't even been playing with a striker since Andy Carroll is injured and the other forwards in the squad – Carlton Cole and Modibo Maiga - aren't being trusted to lead the line.
West Ham will drop into the relegation zone if it loses on Saturday at Fulham, which is currently third from bottom.
Premier League previews and live coverage details – every game
By Sport Magazine (@Sportmaguk) | Thursday, November 28, 2013
Tottenham v Manchester United, Sunday 1 December 2013, White Hart Lane 12pm
After 12 games of the season, it seems Tottenham manager Andre Villas-Boas has finally realised that he has a problem: "We never had a proper chance to score, we have to look into it more in depth." His words came on the back of a 6-0 hammering at Manchester City, a result that, combined with the surprise emergence of Emmanuel Adebayor from his home among the Spurs reserves, won't do much to quieten AVB's growing army of critics.
The champions' visit to White Hart Lane on Sunday comes at a pivotal time for the Londoners, then, who have drawn one and lost two of their past three league games.
In Manchester United they face a team that has failed to score at the Lane on only two visits since the Premier League broke away from the Football League in 1992. And, having seen the ease with which their city rivals cut through a Spurs defence that had kept seven clean sheets in the league this term, United boss David Moyes will expect their scoring trend to continue.
United missed their chance to return to the top four for the first time since August last weekend after conceding a late equaliser at Cardiff. That ended a run of three straight wins, but they are unbeaten in 10 in all competitions and remain in touch with the top while they await the arrival of inevitable January reinforcements. With a crunch match against his former Everton side coming three days after the Spurs game, Moyes will hope to meet 'the ex' with his side back to winning ways.
Aston Villa v Sunderland, Saturday 30 November 2013, Villa Park, 3pm
After failing to score in four league games, Aston Villa have now scored four goals in their past two. And after coming back from a two-goal deficit against West Brom on Monday, they've now won more points from losing positions than any other team this season. Sunderland have lost five of their six away games this term and haven't finished either of their previous two away ties with 11 men. Keeping a full complement of players on the pitch would be a start.
Newcastle United v West Bromwich Albion, Saturday 30 November 2013, St James' Park 5.30pm
With three wins in a row, Newcastle are on their best league run since March 2012, when Papiss Cisse was often the hero. This year, it's Loic Remy who has helped dispatch Norwich, Tottenham and Chelsea. West Brom were denied their own Chelsea scalp by a late penalty and then threw away a 2-0 lead over Aston Villa on Monday for another 2-2 draw. Steve Clarke won't enjoy his return to Tyneside if the Magpies steal the points.
Cardiff City v Arsenal, Saturday 30 November 2013, Cardiff City Stadium, 3pm
Arsene Wenger's side last visited Cardiff in 2009 in the FA Cup fourth round. It ended goalless, despite a late barrage from the Gunners. Aaron Ramsey struggled and was replaced after 59 minutes on his first return to his former club. The midfielder will hope for better this time, although Cardiff's resilience against both Manchester sides at home this season suggests this could be a tough away day for the Premier League leaders.
Everton v Stoke, Saturday 30 November 2013, Goodison Park, 3pm
Roberto Martinez has overseen one defeat in 12 league games as Everton boss, and took the Toffees to the brink of a Merseyside derby win last weekend. Mark Hughes hasn't enjoyed quite the same start at Stoke, but he does arrive at Goodison on the back of a third win of the season for the Potters. Recent meetings between the sides have been tight affairs, but with Everton embracing Martinez's attacking football, this one could be different.
Norwich City v Crystal Palace, Saturday 30 November 2013, Carrow Road, 3pm
Chris Hughton's Norwich have now conceded more goals in the league (23) than every other team except Sunderland. Crystal Palace are only two goals short of that – just one thing new boss Tony Pulis will look to address in his bid to preserve the 'never been relegated as a manager' line on his CV. The Eagles did get their first win in five games away from Selhurst Park last weekend, though, and won on their last visit to Carrow Road in 2010.
West Ham United v Fulham, Saturday 30 November 2013, Upton Park, 3pm
Fulham are without a league win at Upton Park since 2001 and have lost four in a row in the league, with Martin Jol favourite to be the next top-flight manager sacked. His opposite number on Saturday also sounds worried, however. After losing a fourth home game this season last weekend, Sam Allardyce said his team played with fear, adding: "It's dangerous when you see that body language." Dangerous to play without a striker too, Sam.
Hull City v Liverpool, Sunday 1 December 2013, KC Stadium 2.05pm
Hull suffered a first home defeat of the season last weekend, amid growing unrest over their imminent name change to Hull City Tigers. Boss Steve Bruce has more than that to keep him awake at night, with Hull scoring just four goals in six home games this term. Liverpool's form on the road, meanwhile, has been solid, with two wins, three draws and just one league defeat, to Arsenal. Hull's pussycats need to find some bite if they're to survive this one.
Chelsea v Southampton, Sunday 1 December 2013, Stamford Bridge, 4.10pm
"These things happen," said Southampton boss Mauricio Pochettino of the dithering from goalkeeper Artur Boruc at Arsenal. At least, that's the message the translator passed on. Had Petr Cech tried something similar, Jose Mourinho might not have been quite so diplomatic. Although with Chelsea seemingly unbeatable at the Bridge, Cech might as well give it a try, just to show some solidarity with Boruc.
Manchester City v Swansea City, Sunday 1 December 2013, Etihad Stadium, 4.10pm
Man City have scored 26 goals in six home league games. "It is impossible to play better," said Manuel Pellegrini after his side's 6-0 Sunday roasting of Spurs. It's a tough prospect for Swansea, who have just one league win in a post-Europa League weekend. Sergio Aguero has scored 14 times in his past 12 games and notched two in the Swans' first visit to the Etihad. On the plus side for Swansea, Joe Hart could be back in goal.
Steven Gerrard 'badly shaken' after being assaulted when he got out of his Range Rover outside a corner shop near his home
Man confronted Liverpool captain outside convenience store before fleeing
Woman police officer arrested on suspicion of misconduct in a public office
By CRAIG MACKENZIE
PUBLISHED: 09:08 GMT, 1 December 2013 | UPDATED: 09:34 GMT, 1 December 2013
Abused: Steven Gerrard was assaulted in the street near his home in Liverpool
Steven Gerrard has been assaulted in the street by a thug who abused and threatened the soccer star.The 33-year-old England and Liverpool captain was reportedly left 'badly shaken' after the attack outside a convenience store near his luxury home. He was alone and had just got of his Range Rover when he was confronted by the mystery attacker before the man ran away.
Gerrard was not seriously hurt, but the incident in the wealthy village near Liverpool, where he lives with his wife Alex and three young daughters, has raised fears about the family's security. Merseyside police have confirmed they are investigating a case of common assault over the incident which happened last August. Soon after the attack, a female police officer was arrested in an investigation into whether an attempt was made to obtain CCTV footage of the attack taken from a nearby shop.
She was questioned by detectives on suspicion of committing misconduct in a public office.Officers took a statement from the player who is expected to captain Liverpool at Hull City today.A Merseyside Police spokesman told the Sunday Mirror: 'As a result of this investigation, a female officer who has been on a career break since early this year is being investigated in relation to potential misconduct in a public office. It would be inappropriate to comment further at this stage.'
The attack is not the first time thugs have targeted Gerrard, who was raised in the city's Huyton area. Last September a fan scaled a perimeter wall at Liverpool’s training ground and yelled threats against his family.
Couple: Gerrard with his wife Alex, who have been targeted by thugs They have three young daughters
Liverpool captain: Gerrard was abused by a fan who scaled the fence at the club training ground and threatened to kill him and his family
The man sped away on a bike shouting: 'I’ll kill you and your f****** kids.'In December 2007, masked raiders burst in and confronted 31-year-old Alex as the couple’s children slept.In 2001, both Steven and Alex faced death threats from members of Liverpool’s underworld.After Gerrard was said to have been chased by a local criminal through the streets of Liverpool in his car, steel gates 10ft high and state-of-the-art security cameras were put up at the footballer's £3million home.Liverpool Football Club and the player’s agent refused to comment on the assault.
Jol sacked by Fulham as Khan appoints Meulensteen as his immediate replacement
By MIKE DAWES
PUBLISHED: 16:27 GMT, 1 December 2013 | UPDATED: 18:22 GMT, 1 December 2013
Rene Meulensteen admits he is faced with a 'massive challenge' at Fulham after taking over from the sacked Martin Jol.The club's billionaire owner Shahid Khan switched one Dutchman with another on Sunday, as Jol departed Craven Cottage after two and a half years in charge to be replaced by a former trusted lieutenant of Sir Alex Ferguson. Fulham will hope some of former Manchester United boss Ferguson's magic has rubbed off on the 49-year-old, whose experience in management is limited but whose reputation as a coach is among the best.
Axed: Martin Jol has been sacked as manager of Fulham with immediate effect
You're fired! Fulham chairman Shahid Khan has wielded the axe on Martin Jol after the club's poor run of results
Khan decided Jol had to go after Saturday's 3-0 loss at West Ham, a sixth defeat in a row for the Cottagers. Five of those losses have come in the Barclays Premier League, with Fulham consequently plummeting into the relegation zone.Meulensteen came in only last month to serve as head coach under Jol, and has benefited from seeing where the team's deficiences lie as he prepares to start work in the top job.His task is to steer Fulham clear of danger and preserve the top-flight status they have maintained since 2001.
'It's a massive challenge,' Meulensteen told Sky Sports News. 'But when you're faced with a challenge like this it comes down to making sure you get the basic things right.'You need to stay mentally strong and make sure the fans are getting behind the team.'We need to make sure the players are mentally strong and believe.'He added: 'I am confident because of the sort of experiences I've had for so many years at Manchester United.'I know what is required at the top end of the Premier League.'This is a different challenge with different pressure. This is making sure you realise the need to keep three teams below you.'Don't even speak about getting into the top six, top 10, whatever it is.
One in, one out: Rene Meulensteen has assumed immediate responsibility for the first team after Jol's sacking
Hammer blow: Mohamed Diame, Carlton Cole and Joe Cole all scored to condemn Fulham to a 3-0 defeat on Saturday
Premier League record: Martin Jol's career statistics at Fulham and Tottenham
'You need to make sure you close your ranks, and you make sure you start winning again.'We need to make sure we don't start conceding easy goals which Fulham have done in the last two games and the games before. 'Meulensteen, whose first match in charge will be the home fixture against Tottenham on Wednesday, graduated through the Old Trafford ranks, becoming first-team coach in 2008, a post he held until Ferguson retired at the end of last season.A short stint in charge of Russian side Anzhi Makhachkala followed, and Meulensteen was strongly linked with Crystal Palace before Tony Pulis took over at Selhurst Park.Jol and Meulensteen have spoken since Khan dismissed the former Tottenham and Ajax boss.
'I rang him straightaway,' Meulensteen said.'I said to Martin, "Listen, I don't know if this is anything to do with me, but in the time I worked 12 years with Manchester United, and for five to six years with Sir Alex Ferguson, I had no problem, but I go to Anzhi and Guus Hiddink departs after two weeks, and Martin does the same".'I don't know if was anything to do with me, but it was definitely not something I was anticipating."We wanted to turn this corner together.'Jol will have his chance to say farewell to the players and Meulensteen reported his predecessor was 'still full of desire and fighting spirit' during their conversation.
Frustration: Fulham players protest with referee Martin Atkinson as hey are undone by West ham at Upton Park
Dark days: The pressure had been increasing on Jol as Fulham's poor results saw them slip into the relegation zone
'I'm not a great supporter of this kind of decision,' Meulensteen said, 'but this is what happens and we need to look to the future now.'We need to make sure we make every decision that will increase the chances of making sure that Fulham is a Premier League club next year. That's where they belong and that's what we need to do. If there are investments need to be made in whatever area, we need to live up to that, otherwise you might be paying a high price.'Many supporters had been on Jol's back, calling for change, and Khan decided the London derby loss marked breaking point.Khan said in a statement on Fulham's website: 'Today I spoke with Martin to thank him for his efforts on behalf of Fulham Football Club over the past three seasons and, in particular, since my becoming chairman earlier this year.'Martin was very gracious and I appreciate his understanding of the situation. There is no question Martin is an excellent football man and he has my utmost respect for the commitment he made to our club.'However, our poor form and results this season are undeniable, and Fulham supporters deserve better. With more than half the season still ahead, an immediate change was necessary.'
Martin Jol's Fulham career
2010: July 22- Confirms he will stay with Ajax but admits his agent did hold 'serious talks' with Fulham.
2010: December 6 - Resigns from Ajax post.
2011: June 7 - Named Fulham boss on two-year deal.
2012: May 13 - Leads Fulham to ninth place in the Premier League in his first season in charge, collecting 52 points, one point off their record points tally in the top division.
2013: November 2 - Fulham suffer their third defeat in eight days, a 3-1 loss at home to Manchester United and sit 16th in the Premier League table with 10 points after 10 games.
2013: November 30 - with the team in the bottom three of the table fans call for Jol to be sacked after Fulham lose 3-0 at West Ham on the back of a 4-0 defeat to Liverpool at Anfield and a 2-1 home reverse to Swansea.
2013: December 1 - Jol is sacked by Fulham with Rene Meulensteen taking over first-team duties.
