Barclays Premier League Season 2011/2012

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West Brom to discuss new contract with Hodgson

12 November 2011

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West Bromwich Albion will have contract talks with Roy Hodgson in the new year.Hodgson took over the Baggies from Roberto Di Matteo last season and has proved a successful appointment, but only signed a deal to the end of the season.

The 64-year-old has recovered well following a disappointing spell at Liverpool, and West Brom are keen to tie him down to long-term deal."We are fully aware of Roy's contract situation - as is Roy," Albion's sporting and technical director Dan Ashworth told the club's official website.

"Roy is quite relaxed about it. We speak quite regularly about plans for next year.""We've had some vague discussions about the fact we've got some important fixtures coming up and that we will probably sit down in the new year."

Hodgson is one of the oldest managers in the Premier League and Ashworth says it is something they must consider when looking at the length of the contract to be offered.

"Roy is a hugely experienced man and has been doing this for a long time so we will be very much bound by how much longer Roy wants to go on for."It's not quite so simple as him being 40 with at least 25 years left in the game."

"It's very much down to what he wants to do as well, but we're both very aware of the situation and we'll probably look at it in the new year."

 

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Sturridge defends experienced team-mates

14 November 2011

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Daniel Sturridge has defended his experienced Chelsea team-mates after they received criticism for the club's recent run of poor results.

The Blues lost successive matches against QPR and Arsenal in the Premier League in October, and despite returning to winning ways with a 1-0 victory over Blackburn Rovers, Andre Villas-Boas' side now sit nine points behind league leaders Manchester City.

Sturridge, who has scored five goals in 11 appearances since cementing his place in the Chelsea first-team this season, believes the likes of John Terry, Ashley Cole, Frank Lampard and Didier Drogba are still important players for the Stamford Bridge club.

"The disrespect I've seen towards the likes of JT (Terry] and others is ridiculous," Sturridge said."When times get hard, these are the sort of players who step up to the plate.""It's not just the younger players people should be looking at, thinking they're the exciting ones."

"Ashley Cole, JT, Lamps, Didier - these are the players which keep the team going. They are the heart of the team.""They have been here a lot longer than I have, or any of the younger guys coming through have. They're the ones who are paving the way for us.

I can only look up to them right now.""The younger players wouldn't be able to perform when faced with adversity - because we're not used to it. It's a big change for us.""But the older players have been through it. To have those players around the club makes your job so much easier."

 

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Owen sidelined until Christmas
Manchester United striker Michael Owen is facing up to six weeks on the sidelines with a thigh injury.

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City talks continue without Tevez
Carlos Tevez has chosen to remain in Argentina and not attend a meeting with Manchester City on Monday but discussions have taken place between both parties.

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Martinez wants Rodallega resolution
Wigan manager Roberto Martinez wants to find a solution to striker Hugo Rodallega's contract issue before the transfer window opens.

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Dembele plays down Tottenham link
Mousa Dembele has moved quickly to quash speculation linking him with a move away from Fulham.

Koreans unhappy with Ji condition
Sunderland striker Ji Dong-won has come under attack in South Korea for his "poor" physical condition.

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Fabianski hoping for loan chance
Unsettled Arsenal goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski admits he is willing to go out on loan in search of regular first-team football.

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Venky's rule out Blackburn sale
Blackburn owners Venky's have insisted they have "no interest" in selling the club just a year after taking over at Ewood Park.

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Wenger: Arsenal are in control now
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger admits sacrificing attractive football has helped his team's performances in recent weeks.

Villarreal linked to Lukaku loan move
Chelsea are reportedly considering farming out young striker Romelu Lukaku on loan, with La Liga outfit Villarreal apparently interested in the Belgian.

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Boca: Tevez too expensive for us

Boca Juniors president Jorge Amor Ameal insists Carlos Tevez remains too expensive for them to sign.

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Tiote up for Newcastle fight
Cheick Tiote admits he faces a fight to get his Newcastle first-team place back for this weekend's clash with Manchester City.

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Carragher set for Chelsea comeback
Liverpool vice-captain Jamie Carragher is in line to make his comeback against Chelsea this weekend after recovering from injury.

Neymar has no Chelsea regrets
Brazilian prodigy Neymar insists he has no regrets over turning down a big-money move to Chelsea.

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Bordeaux express interest in Chamakh
Bordeaux president Jean-Louis Triaud has expressed his interest in re-signing Marouane Chamakh from Arsenal.

Australia progress; China retain hopes
Australia advanced to the next round of Asian World Cup qualifying after edging past Thailand in Bangkok.

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Man United post turnover increase
Manchester United look set for another record-breaking year off the pitch after posting a healthy 16.5% increase in first-quarter turnover to £73.8million.

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Terry thankful for worldwide support
John Terry has revealed he received supportive messages "from all over the world" over the race row controversy between him and Anton Ferdinand.

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Hopes of Tevez reconciliation fade
A reconciliation between Carlos Tevez and Manchester City becomes "more impossible" by the day.

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"No way on God's planet Terry is racist"
Former Chelsea assistant manager Ray Wilkins has said there is "no way on God's planet" John Terry is a racist.

Everton open Free School in Liverpool
Everton have become the first Premier League club in the country to be granted permission to open a Free School.

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Arsenal great Alf Fields passes away
One of Arsenal's greatest servants, Alf Fields passed away on Monday at the age of 92.

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Inter Milan open to Balotelli return
Inter Milan president Massimo Moratti said he has no regrets over selling Mario Balotelli to Manchester City but would like to bring him back to the club.

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Arsenal get over away day blues
Arsenal defender Carl Jenkinson believes their stunning 5-3 win at Stamford Bridge last month will give them renewed confidence to win games on the road.

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Odemwingie plays down Anzhi rumours
Peter Odemwingie has distanced himself from rumours linking him with Anzhi Mahachkala.

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Rovers supporters line up more protests

Blackburn fans opposed to owners Venky's and manager Steve Kean have revealed plans for more protests.
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Gerrard: Suarez an eye-opener
Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard reckons team-mate Luis Suarez has the potential to be one of the best in the world.

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Owen expects Man City "sticky patch"
Manchester United striker Michael Owen believes table-topping Manchester City could still slip up in this year's Barclays Premier League title race.

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Hiddink in new Chelsea link
Guus Hiddink is again being linked with a return to Chelsea after he failed to guide Turkey to the European Championship.

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Wenger salutes top quality Gunners
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger claims that the 'top quality' of his deadline-day signings has changed the dynamic of the dressing room for the better.

Adam out to prove Liverpool worth
Despite a fine start to life at Anfield, Charlie Adam is determined to prove he is worthy of his place in the Liverpool first team.

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Villa wait on Agbonlahor fitness
Aston Villa are waiting to find out if Gabby Agbonlahor will be fit to face Tottenham next Monday night.

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Moses ponders England switch
Nigeria-born Wigan forward Victor Moses could be prepared to switch his allegiance back to England, according to his agent.

Stoke pair set for contract extensions
Tony Pulis has hinted Robert Huth and Glenn Whelan are to be offered new long-term contracts at Stoke.

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United fans not impressed by figures
The Manchester United Supporters Trust have continued their attack on the Glazers despite the club posting a 16.5% increase in first-quarter turnover to £73.8million.

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"Mancini the winner in Tevez saga"
No matter how the Carlos Tevez saga eventually unfolds, Manchester City legend Dennis Tueart believes the real winner will be manager Roberto Mancini.

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Chelsea probe fan racism claims
Chelsea have condemned allegations of racism by their own fans following claims one of them called striker Daniel Sturridge a "monkey".

Venky's deny Blackburn sale again
Blackburn's owners Venky's have again moved to dismiss reports that discussions were under way to sell the Ewood Park club.

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AVB denies English FA charges
Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas has denied an Football Association charge for comments he made after his side's 1-0 defeat at QPR earlier this month.

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Jenkinson still stunned by Arsenal move
Carl Jenkinson has revealed he is still pinching himself that he is an Arsenal player and admitted he has a long way to go before becoming their first-choice right-back.

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Andrews expects Blackburn exit

Keith Andrews admits he is in the dark over his future but has ruled out the possibility of returning to Blackburn.
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Everton open Free School in Liverpool

Everton have become the first Premier League club in the country to be granted permission to open a Free School.

Secretary of State for Education Michael Gove confirmed the news in the House of Commons, paving the way for the project to open in Liverpool in September with an initial intake of 120 pupils.

The Everton in the Community Free School, Government-funded and run by the club's charitable arm, will use the power of sport to engage pupils aged between 14 and 19 and their wider families with an alternative learning experience.

"We are proud to be associated with a project that will make a difference to the lives of many in our local community," chief executive Robert Elstone told Everton's website.

"We have played a huge part in the Liverpool and Merseyside community for over 100 years and this latest move demonstrates our desire to continue to make a difference where it counts."

Dr Denise Barrett-Baxendale, chief executive of Everton in the Community, added: "We wish to engage students with a new innovative approach to educational provision backed by the brand and values of Everton Football Club, which are already firmly embedded within our community scheme."

The project has been backed by Toffees manager David Moyes.

"This will represent a fantastic opportunity for Everton Football Club and its charitable arm, Everton in the Community, to further extend its reach into a wide variety of communities across the Merseyside region," he said.

"It will, unquestionably, provide a real chance for some less-privileged, less-fortunate children to embrace - and benefit from - a high-quality education."
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Wednesday 16th November 2011

United fans not impressed by figures

The Manchester United Supporters Trust have continued their attack on the Glazers despite the club posting a 16.5% increase in first-quarter turnover to £73.8million.

With plans for a partial floatation in Singapore on hold due to unfavourable Stock Market conditions, MUST have noted a continuing decrease in debt due to the club's continuing moves to buy back bonds that were sold as part of a £500million refinancing exercise at the start of last year.

Whilst the club argue such moves make financial sense, fans feel the money being spent should be ploughed back into Sir Alex Ferguson's squad, which has fallen five points behind big-spending neighbours Manchester City in the Premier League title race.

United have spent in excess of £50million on David de Gea, Ashley Young and Phil Jones and got five players tied up on long term contracts, including new England international Chris Smalling and striking sensation Javier Hernandez.

However, they have failed to land the central midfield replacement for Paul Scholes many felt was essential to their hopes of retaining their Premier League title. MUST chief executive Duncan Drasdo said: "Revenue continues to grow building on the platform laid down by Sir Alex Ferguson over 25 years of unparalleled success.

"However a key concern for supporters is that on top of the hundreds of millions lost in interest and fees resulting from the Glazers' ownership we are now seeing huge amounts of additional money being paid out of the club's cash reserves being spent on buying the bond debt incurred by the Glazers.

"That is the Glazers' debt, that they dumped on our debt-free club and they are now using club funds to pay for it. "A sum exceeding 'The Ronaldo money' they claimed would remain available for transfers has now been spent and this is on top of the £100s of millions in interest and fees already wasted." The issue of what happens to the £80million received from Real Madrid for Cristiano Ronaldo in 2009 has been of huge significance for United fans.

However, with the club's revenues continuing to rise, United would argue that funds for Ferguson's squad - which he has never complained about - are part of the on-going costs of running the Old Trafford outfit, whose turnover in the last financial year exceeded £300million for the first time, and whose performance off the field continues to be strong.

They reported growth in all areas in their first quarter figures, with the commercial side benefiting from the £40million deal with DHL to sponsor their training kit helping it rise 22.3% to £29.6million. Media revenues were up from £19.4million to £22.6million, largely thanks to United's status as Premier League champions ensuring they get a larger share of the Champions League pot, and a lucrative five-match tour of the United States.

In addition, matchday income has also grown 9.6% to £21.6million, thanks to the first complete sell-out of seasonal hospitality boxes since the plush Old Trafford quadrants were completed in 2006. After posting profits of £110.9million last year, the Old Trafford outfit clearly have no intention of resting on their laurels, although matching a campaign when they won the title and reached the Champions League final will not be easy given Manchester City's rise to prominence, including a 6-1 derby-day annihilation last month.

It places more emphasis on the commercial side, which has grown enormously thanks to a 'territorial' approach to marketing, which rival clubs may attempt to copy. However, speaking last month, commercial director Richard Arnold was relaxed about that prospect.

"There is only one Manchester United," he said. "Whilst a lot of the strategy is public knowledge, I am very fortunate to be with the club I am with and able to do these deals. "A lot of hard work has gone into getting to the position we are in now and we are already looking to the future.

"If people want to recreate what we did five years ago that is up to them. "It isn't other clubs that I worry about; it is what we are going to be doing in the future."
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Villa hopeful over Agbonlahor
Aston Villa are hopeful Gabriel Agbonlahor will recover from a hamstring injury in time for Monday's Barclays Premier League game at Tottenham.

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Sunderland reveal Wickham relief
Sunderland manager Steve Bruce has confirmed striker Connor Wickham should be back in action before the end of the year after fears he could be ruled out for the season.

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Pearson plots Leicester BPL return
Nigel Pearson walked back into the pressure of the Leicester job and admitted the only ingredient missing at the King Power Stadium is Premier League football.

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Swindon teenager snubs Chelsea
A 12-year-old Swindon midfielder has rejected the chance to join Chelsea, the League Two club have confirmed.

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Butt hoping for coaching role
Former Manchester United midfielder Nicky Butt has his sights firmly set on football management - but is prepared to be patient in finding the right job.

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Ex-chairman Paladini leaves QPR
Former chairman Gianni Paladini's eight-year association with QPR has ended after he agreed to leave the club by mutual consent on Wednesday

Villa's Bannan charged for car crash
Aston Villa midfielder Barry Bannan has been charged with a string of driving offences following a motorway crash, police said on Wednesday.

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Johnson extends City stay till 2015
Adam Johnson has signed a new deal at Manchester City until 2015.

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Suarez charged over Evra clash
Luis Suarez has been charged by the Football Association with racially abusing Manchester United defender Patrice Evra.

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Balotelli rules out City departure
Mario Balotelli has again played down reports of an imminent return to Italian football.

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Spurs confirm plans to go private
Tottenham announced plans to de-list from the stock market and return to private ownership in a bid to raise funds for a new stadium.

Saha rubbishes PSG link
Everton striker Louis Saha has denied he is lining up a return to France with Paris Saint Germain.

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Milner out to ignore City critics
Midfielder James Milner intends to keep ignoring the critics who are attempting to undermine Manchester City's charge for glory.

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Park keen to star for Gunners
Park Chu-young believes Arsenal are about to see just what he can do after now feeling settled into English life.

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Pardew: We are focused on football

Newcastle manager Alan Pardew insists that his players are not distracted by the off-field fiasco that has followed the renaming of their stadium.

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Hiddink hints at Chelsea return
Guus Hiddink has not ruled out a return to Barclays Premier League side Chelsea following the termination of his contract as Turkey coach by mutual consent.

 

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Torres: I owe Chelsea fans a debt
Fernando Torres insists he will get back to his best and admits he owes the Chelsea fans after a barren run of form.

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UEFA push forward Rooney hearing
Wayne Rooney's appeal against his three-match international ban has been brought forward 24 hours to December 8.

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Fellaini signs new Everton contract
Everton midfielder Marouane Fellaini has signed a new five-year contract which ties him to the club until the summer of 2016.

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War of Twits as Blatter blasts Rio
Under-fire FIFA president Sepp Blatter embroiled himself in a Twitter war-of-words with Rio Ferdinand over his comments about racism.

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Dalglish stays mum on Blatter furore
Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish refused to enter into the debate on racism in football in the wake of FIFA president Sepp Blatter's comments.

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Chelsea to revive interest in Pereira
Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas is set to renew his interest in signing Porto's Alvaro Pereira in the January transfer window.

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RVP: Wenger has made me great
Robin van Persie has revealed how deeply grateful the Dutchman is to Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger for bringing out his full potential.

Berbatov would consider Anzhi move
Dimitar Berbatov's agent has confirmed that the striker would consider a move to Russian outfit Anzhi Makhachkala.

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Gerrard haunted by Reds title failure
Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard admits he fears he might end his career without a Barclays Premier League title to his name.

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Aquilani set to leave Liverpool for good
Alberto Aquilani is likely to leave Liverpool and join AC Milan on a permanent deal, according to his agent Franco Zavaglia.

Roma reveal Chelsea bid for De Rossi
Roma director Bruno Conti has once again declared that Daniele De Rossi is not for sale, revealing the club once turned down a €70million bid from Chelsea.

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Young, Cleverley set for United return
Manchester United's bid for the Barclays Premier League title looks set to receive a welcome boost by the returns of Ashley Young and Tom Cleverley this weekend.

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Gerrard: Liverpool perfect for Downing
Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard believes Stewart Downing has the perfect stage on which to build his reputation as one of England's leading players.

Giggs geared up for Wales return
Manchester United midfielder Ryan Giggs is relishing the prospect of playing his first Premier League game in Wales this weekend.

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Pienaar: No regrets over Spurs move

Steven Pienaar insists he has 'no regrets' over his £3million move to Tottenham earlier this year.​

 

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QPR eager for Campbell return
QPR's head physio Nigel Cox believes DJ Campbell will be available for selection again in "three to four weeks".

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Martinez: Alcaraz must learn lesson

Wigan boss Roberto Martinez expects defender Antolin Alcaraz to learn a lesson from his three-match ban for spitting.​

Coyle coping with raised expectations
Bolton manager Owen Coyle knows he only has himself to blame for the level of expectation placed on his side.

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Dalglish confident of Suarez impact
Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish believes striker Luis Suarez will be full of confidence as he prepares to pull on the red shirt again this weekend.

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Dalglish unconcered with Torres, Meireles
Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish does not believe a reunion with Fernando Torres and Raul Meireles is any greater motivation against Chelsea.

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Wise enters Stamford Bridge saga
Ex-club captain Dennis Wise has agreed to rejoin the board of Chelsea Pitch Owners.

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Agent: Spurs, Arsenal chasing Damiao
Leandro Damiao's agents have claimed that Arsenal and Tottenham have both lodged offers for the Brazilian.

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Bent: Walker can do job for England
Darren Bent has warned Glen Johnson and Micah Richards they face a battle royal with Kyle Walker to become England's number one right-back at Euro 2012.

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McLeish: Managers must watch their health
Aston Villa manager Alex McLeish has stressed the need for managers to undergo regular health checks after Harry Redknapp's recent heart procedure.

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Swansea ready to face Man United
Swansea captain Garry Monk has labelled their weekend meeting with Manchester United as the biggest game in the club's 99-year history.

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Sturridge craving for central role
Chelsea and England forward Daniel Sturridge is hoping for a more central role for club and country.

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Dalglish: Gerrard recovery going well
Kenny Dalglish claims Steven Gerrard's rehabilitation is "progressing brilliantly" but has refused to set a date for his possible return.

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Kean: Blackburn deserve more points
Blackburn boss Steve Kean insists the club have deserved better than their rewards this season.

Redknapp hopeful of swift return

Harry Redknapp is "optimistic" of returning to the Tottenham bench for Monday night's Barclays Premier League clash with Aston Villa at White Hart Lane.​

 

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Thursday 17th November 2011

Spurs confirm plans to go private

Tottenham announced plans to de-list from the stock market and return to private ownership in a bid to raise funds for a new stadium.

Spurs revealed they would propose the move to shareholders on the same day as they published their annual financial results, which saw them make a profit of £402,000 for the year up to June 30. That represented a huge improvement on the previous year's loss of £6.5million, helped by the club's first Champions League campaign.

That campaign generated income of £37.1million from gate receipts and prize money, but Spurs had to settle for a place in the less lucrative Europa League this season. Given the continual drain of improved player contracts, Levy knows how important extra revenue will be to move forward.

"Last season we played some of the most entertaining football of any team in any league in the world," he said. "We shall fully embrace the Europa League this season and push to achieve all that we can, whilst also ensuring that we focus on our goal of rejoining the UEFA Champions League."

Levy accepts the wage bill must be kept in check, which can often prove a difficult balancing act. In his report to shareholders on Spurs' financial results for the year ending June 30, 2011, Levy said: "We retained a large squad to give ourselves the best chance of success and ensure there was sufficient depth in the squad.

"More players, along with salary inflation, performance-related bonuses and increases in football expenses, resulted in football operating expenses increasing during the year. "Post year end we have reduced the squad size, enhanced the quality and continue to focus on retaining core players on long-term contracts.

"This invariably means new longer-term deals on higher, competitive salaries. "We continue to work, however, on driving revenues to ensure that the wage to revenue percentages remain within our key performance targets."

With UEFA's Financial Fair Play regulations - which aim to prevent clubs from spending more than they can generate - to be implemented soon, Levy knows there are challenging times ahead. "We, your board, have always highlighted the need for a viable and sustainable business, operating within our means," he added.

"We welcome the forthcoming new system of Financial Fair Play in the game that we hope will level the playing field and endorse the way we have operated to date." Tottenham's annual figures included record revenue of £163.5million, up £43.7million on 2010, while operating profit before football trading and amortisation rocketed by 42% to £32.3million.

Despite the relative healthy outlook, Levy insists de-listing the club from the Alternative Investment Market (AIM) was necessary to help raise funds for a much-needed redevelopment, which could eventually see the club sell lucrative naming rights.

Tottenham had bid to move into the Olympic Stadium, but that attempt failed. However, following legal challenges by the north London club, plans to award the stadium to West Ham were scrapped and it will now go back out to tender.

The Hammers and Leyton Orient have both said that they will apply for the tenancy. Spurs, who have ruled out another bid, are in discussions with local and national government about building a new 60,000-seater stadium on the ground adjacent to White Hart Lane.

The plan, known as the Northumberland Development Project, was launched in 2008, but looked set to be scuppered by increased costs until recently. "It is clear to us that increasing the capacity of the club's stadium is a key factor in the continued development and success of the club and will involve the company in considerable additional capital expenditure," Levy said.

"Given this requirement, we believe that the AIM listing restricts our ability to secure funding for its future development. "We are ambitious for the club and have always taken the steps that we believe to be in its best interests."

On the pitch, Tottenham are well placed for another crack at the top four after an unbeaten league run of eight games lifted them to fifth in the table with a game in hand on the teams above them. Manager Harry Redknapp could be back in the dugout for Monday night's clash with Aston Villa at White Hart Lane following a minor heart procedure.
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Liverpool fans don´t know full story, says Torres

17 November 2011

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Fernando Torres says Liverpool fans do not know the full story behind his transfer to English Premier League rivals Chelsea.The Spain international is an unpopular figure on Merseyside, going from hero to villain after his 50 million-pound switch to London in the January transfer window.

Torres was roundly booed during Spain's defeat to England at Wembley on Saturday and expects to be in the firing line from the away fans when Liverpool travel to Stamford Bridge on Sunday, but said his former club's supporters will always be special to him.

"I've no doubt (the abuse) will be a lot worse (on Sunday)," Torres told Marca."The Liverpool fans have only paid attention to what the club made them see and they don't know the true story of my transfer to Chelsea.""That's why I don’t hold any grudges; they will always be special to me."

Torres became a Kop idol for his lethal form during his first three seasons with the club, scoring 56 Premier League goals in just 79 appearances while playing under Rafael Benitez.But when the Spanish manager was replaced by Roy Hodgson, his form dipped and it has not fully recovered since his move to the capital.

"Nobody has understood me like Rafa Benitez," he said."I owe him a lot. He is a fantastic coach. His teams go out on to the pitch with just one aim: to compete.""The sensation they transmit is that, with less (of a) budget, they can beat the biggest teams."

The 27-year-old will be hoping to show something like his best form when Liverpool visit on Sunday, with the player stating the importance of the fixture as Chelsea look to stay in the title race.Torres' former club have picked up only one win in their last four Premier League matches, but the forward believes that they are heading in the right direction.

"(Liverpool) are a team in transition and the change doesn't come overnight," he said."They need time. They have made a significant investment and, like in any project, they need to establish themselves.""(Chelsea) can't allow ourselves the luxury of losing any more points. It will be a very special game and atmosphere, too, without a doubt."

With only two Premier League goals this season, Torres has not yet hit top form in a Chelsea shirt.But he dismissed concerns that he was feeling the pressure of his transfer fee and remains optimistic about his future."You place the responsibility on yourself, it's something you can't control," he said.

"Also, how much I cost doesn't depend on me, it's the clubs who decide what they are willing to pay and it is they who come to an agreement.""I have been lucky enough to experience many wonderful situations over the last 10 years, but I am confident the best is yet to come."

 

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Thursday 17th November 2011

Chelsea-Liverpool clash highlights BPL

In Sunday's only game two players who are the subject of ongoing racism investigations could come face to face as Chelsea play Liverpool.

Chelsea's John Terry has strenuously denied allegations he racially abused QPR defender Anton Ferdinand which are the subject of police and Football Association investigations.

Liverpool striker Luis Suarez was charged by the FA with racially abusing Manchester United's Patrice Evra, a charge the Anfield club have confirmed he will deny.

Manchester City midfielder James Milner is determined off-field problems at the club will not distract the team from their challenge for the English Premier League title which will be tested as they face fellow unbeaten side Newcastle at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday.

City are still to determine the future of striker Carlos Tevez who travelled home to Argentina to see his family without the club's permission. But Milner just wants to concentrate om what is happening on the field with the Premier League leaders.

He said: "As a team, we just keep moving forward. "There always seems to be things going on off the field at Manchester City and people wanting to knock you down with distractions. "All we can do is concentrate on what we're there to do and that's play football and work hard in training."

Manchester United face a trip to Swansea where they could have a striker selection poser to contend with. United were already without Michael Owen after manager Sir Alex Ferguson revealed would be out for six weeks with a thigh muscle injury before Danny Welbeck pulled out of England's friendly international with Sweden on Tuesday with a muscle strain. If Welbeck remains on the sidelines Ferguson will have to decide between Wayne Rooney, Javier Hernandez and Dimitar Berbatov at the Liberty Stadium.

Swansea defender Angel Rangel accepts his side's unbeaten home record this season will be severely tested. He said: "When you look around their squad and see Rooney, Hernandez and Nani, for example, then you realise if you make the slightest mistake then you will get punished. We have to be totally focused."

In Saturday's early kick-off Norwich face Arsenal at Carrow Road, while in the remaining games on the day Everton face Wolves, Stoke take on QPR, Sunderland play Fulham, West Brom host Bolton and Wigan are at home to Blackburn in a fixture both sides will want to win in order to move away from the bottom of the table.

Tottenham will hope to have manager Harry Redknapp back in the dugout for their Monday evening game against Aston Villa at White Hart Lane. Tottenham assistant manager Joe Jordan has revealed Redknapp is close to completing his recovery from the heart procedure he underwent last month. "There's a possibility Harry will be back for the Villa game. He's very keen and optimistic of that happening," said Jordan.

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Match Fixtures

Saturday

Norwich vs Arsenal

Everton vs Wolverhampton W.

Manchester City vs Newcastle

Stoke vs Queens Park Rangers

Sunderland vs Fulham

West Bromwich Albion vs Bolton

Wigan Athletic vs Blackburn

Swansea vs Manchester United

Sunday

Chelsea vs Liverpool

Monday

Tottenham vs Aston Villa​

 

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EPL chief rejects league reduction call

18 November 2011

Premier League chief executive Richard Scudamore has rejected a proposal to reduce Europe's major leagues to 16 clubs.

Earlier this month Barcelona president Sandro Rosell called for Europe's elite leagues to be reduced in order to facilitate weekend Champions League fixtures.

But Scudamore believes such a concept goes against the spirit of competitions that are traditionally fixtured midweek.He told CNN: "Well that's very nice of him (Rosell) to issue that as a statement but that's a very Barcelona-centric view."

"Our clubs have no view whatsoever to be playing European football on a weekend. European football is a midweek competition, and domestic football is a weekend competition."

Rosell is also interested in a European breakaway league for major clubs, a proposition Scudamore refuses to support.

"It's just not going to happen. What has been said has been said but I'm not going to go along with the sentiment," Scudamore said.

"In reality we have a Champions League, it's a fantastic competition.

Obviously there are some things the clubs would like to alter and ultimately discussions will take place and UEFA will do something to make sure things stay intact."

"When it comes to ultimate football sanctions you just can't break away."

​

 

[no_faith]

Hiddink hints at Chelsea return
Guus Hiddink has not ruled out a return to Barclays Premier League side Chelsea following the termination of his contract as Turkey coach by mutual consent.

wat a nice timing as chelsea is not performing that well. Chelsea continue to slump, during the transfer window in January, Roman will buy Guus to replace AVB.

 

[jw5]

wat a nice timing as chelsea is not performing that well. Chelsea continue to slump, during the transfer window in January, Roman will buy Guus to replace AVB.

No need to buy bro, he's available on a free.

 

[no_faith]

No need to buy bro, he's available on a free.

dont liday say, he still need wages to sustain living.

 

[ballsathome]

​

Jones committed to central defence
Phil Jones has vowed to cement his place at centre-back for both Manchester United and England, despite his ability to place at other positions.

​

Wilshere ditches the crutches
Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere has been given the all clear to shed his crutches for the first time since he underwent ankle surgery.

Gibbs sidelined after hernia operation
Arsenal full-back Kieran Gibbs will be sidelined for between four and five weeks after undergoing a hernia operation, manager Arsene Wenger has confirmed.

Fellaini revelling in Rodwell partnership
Belgium international Marouane Fellaini believes his midfield partnership with young England star Jack Rodwell is looking good for the future of the club.

​

Cech wants more clean sheets
Petr Cech is determined to improve his run of clean sheets when Chelsea host Liverpool at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.

​

De Jong seeks to bury Ben Arfa hatchet
Manchester City enforcer Nigel de Jong has asked to meet Newcastle's Hatem Ben Arfa when the Magpies head across the Pennines on Saturday.

​

Rodgers thanks Speed over Taylor
Swansea manager Brendan Rodgers has thanked Wales boss Gary Speed for the manner in which he handled Neil Taylor's ankle injury.




Swansea to ruffle United feathers
Swansea manager Brendan Rodgers has vowed to take the game to Manchester United on Saturday.

​

Wenger: Winter fixtures crucial
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has called on his players to maintain their recent good form on the road.

​

Poyet hits out at 'crybaby' Evra
Gus Poyet has defended Luis Suarez over allegations he racially abused Patrice Evra, accusing the Manchester United defender of "crying like a baby".

​

Walcott: Gervinho perfect for Arsenal
Theo Walcott believes Arsenal summer signing Gervinho is a perfect fit at the Emirates Stadium.

​

Kuyt: Liverpool can win every game
Liverpool forward Dirk Kuyt believes the current Reds side assembled by Kenny Dalglish is good enough to win every game they play in.

​

Chamakh content with role at Emirates
Arsenal striker Marouane Chamakh insists that he is happy with life in London despite a lack of playing time this season.

​

Fletcher wary of Swansea threat
Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher is looking forward to taking on Swansea this Saturday, praising the promoted side for their style of play.

​

Youngster Ojo makes Reds switch

Highly-rated teenager Seyi Ojo has completed a move to Liverpool from MK Dons.

​

Pardew backs Ranger to succeed
Newcastle manager Alan Pardew has defended striker Nile Ranger after the player appeared in court to deny charges of assault and being drunk and disorderly.

​

Coyle: Cahill could leave in January
Bolton manager Owen Coyle admits he may have to consider selling Gary Cahill if a suitable offer is received in January.

​

Wenger glad for Henry presence
Arsene Wenger feels the presence of Arsenal legend Thierry Henry at the club's training ground this week can help "lift" his players.

Fernando Torres defends Anfield exit
Fernando Torres has told Liverpool fans they are unaware of the real reasons behind his transfer to Chelsea.

​

McCarthy: Blatter is just "barmy"
Wolves boss Mick McCarthy branded FIFA president Sepp Blatter's comments on racism as "barmy" and called for him to resign.

 

[ballsathome]

​

Fletcher: Swansea will be a challenge
Midfielder Darren Fletcher is preparing for a "real challenge" as Premier League champions Manchester United return to action at Swansea on Saturday.

​

Platt: City must keep clean sheets
First-team coach David Platt insists Manchester City have not lost sight of the importance of keeping clean sheets.

​

Sunderland boss leaps to Ji's defense
Sunderland boss Steve Bruce has leapt to the defence of South Korea striker Ji Dong-won after he incurred the wrath of his international manager.

​

Bale flattered by Barcelona links
Tottenham winger Gareth Bale is flattered by interest from Barcelona.

​

Cech aims to hold off Liverpool
Petr Cech is determined to improve his run of clean sheets when Chelsea host Liverpool at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.

​

Wenger: Racism must be clamped down
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger insisted football should adopt a "zero tolerance" approach to all kinds of abuse.

​

Poyet: Suarez is not a racist
Brighton manager Gus Poyet maintained his defence of fellow Uruguayan Luis Suarez.

Mancini adamant Tevez's City career over
Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini repeated his belief that Carlos Tevez has played his last game for the club.

Gutierrez urges Tevez to return
Newcastle winger Jonas Gutierrez has urged friend Carlos Tevez to return to England and thrash out his future with Manchester City.

Lucas benefitted from Xabi Alonso
Liverpool midfielder Lucas Leiva has revealed how former team-mate Xabi Alonso has helped him become the player that he is today.

Report: Zenit consider Arshavin return
Zenit St Petersburg manager Luciano Spalletti admitted that the Russian club could be tempted into bringing back Andrey Arshavin from Arsenal.

Jones committed to central defence
Phil Jones has vowed to cement his place at centre-back for both Manchester United and England, despite his ability to place at other positions.

Wilshere ditches the crutches
Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere has been given the all clear to shed his crutches for the first time since he underwent ankle surgery.

Gibbs sidelined after hernia operation
Arsenal full-back Kieran Gibbs will be sidelined for between four and five weeks after undergoing a hernia operation, manager Arsene Wenger has confirmed.​

Fellaini revelling in Rodwell partnership

Belgium international Marouane Fellaini believes his midfield partnership with young England star Jack Rodwell is looking good for the future of the club.
​

 

[ballsathome]

Friday 18th November 2011

Youngster Ojo makes Reds switch

Highly-rated teenager Seyi Ojo has completed a move to Liverpool from MK Dons.

Ojo, 14, has been snapped up by the Barclays Premier League club's academy following four years with the Dons.

The midfielder has been capped twice by England at under-16 level during their recent Victory Shield campaign.

"This is the opportunity of a lifetime for Seyi and his parents which has proved far too difficult to turn down," Dons chairman Peter Winkelman told the club's official website, mkdons.com.

"There has been a lot of interest and speculation regarding Seyi which he has coped with admirably.

"We are extremely proud to have Seyi in our record books as our first schoolboy to receive an international cap.

Everyone at the club would like to wish Seyi the best of luck in his future and we all look forward to the day he runs out at Anfield."
​