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Former Manchester United defender Gary Neville has sought to explain his recent comments regarding Chelsea.
Prior to Chelsea's make-or-break Champions League game against Valencia on Tuesday, Neville had said he wouldn't want to be a player in Chelsea's dressing room.
Blues manager Andre Villas-Boas took umbrage at the statement - addressing the remarks immediately after his side's 3-0 win over Valencia and then letting loose a verbal barrage at Neville in another press conference on Friday. Neville, in his latest column in the Daily Mail, has tried to set the record straight.
"In the games like that [like the one against Valencia]," he wrote, "you know that one mistake, one piece of bad luck, or a one bad decision will come back to haunt you. And the worst thing is that it's largely out of your control.
"Incidents such as your captain getting a serious knee injury after 41 minutes, your star striker, who has been sensational for you over five years, missing a chance from three yards, or a defensive mistake, when your goalkeeper kicks the ball rather than collects it, which lets in the opposition, can cost you.
"All of a sudden you get the feeling: ‘Uh, oh! Is this going to be one of those nights?' I remember that game against Benfica in 2005, when I made a mistake for their first goal to let them back in. You hear the crowd go up and you think, ‘Oh no, we're in trouble here'.
"Approaching those types of games is a totally different feeling to the nerves of a semi-final or a final. Then it's excitement. You've already achieved something important or are on the verge of it. This is different.
"Which is why I made a comment on Tuesday night that I wouldn't want to be a Chelsea player in their dressing room. To be honest, it has been taken completely out of context.
"These games are huge but horrible matches. You don't enjoy them and you're anxious and they have come too early in the season. And that would apply to Chelsea, United and Manchester City. It was the week where things could wrong."
Chelsea and City meet at Stamford Bridge on Monday, and Neville felt the result could have a huge say in the title race this season.
"On a Monday night when no one else is playing, the whole of football will be watching and the spotlight will be on both clubs for different reasons. "For City, it's a major question. They've gone out of the Champions League and, for the first time in six weeks, United will be just two points behind them, which applies that little bit of pressure going into such a big game, their toughest game of this period."
"You come through major points in the season and this is one of them. If they can win here people will view them even more than before as potential champions. "But for Chelsea, it's also as big as it has been this season. If they lose, they'll be 13 points behind City and it will be difficult to get back in the title race. But if they win, everyone will think they've returned to form."
Highlighting the tactics Villas-Boas adopted against Valencia, Neville said: "They looked a lot stronger and a lot more compact against Valencia and they're in a better state of mind to play this game than 10 days ago. "Their confidence will be up and on Tuesday night the spine of the team in Petr Cech, John Terry, Oriol Romeu and Didier Drogba were all back to their best.
"But can they maintain that compactness against the runs of David Silva, Mario Balotelli, Sergio Aguero, Samir Nasri and James Milner? Predictions are always dangerous in matches between the top sides but that will be the key question for the game.
"And if Chelsea can do that, if they can continue to play as they did against Valencia, it gives them an opportunity to get back in the title race and force people to view them again as serious contenders.
"The two games they played last week against Newcastle and Valencia represented a return to good results. But a victory on this game would represent a return to form."
Chinese Super League club Shanghai Shenhua have completing the signing of Chelsea's French striker Nicolas Anelka on a two-year deal.Shenhua, who have been in discussions with Anelka for the past week, confirmed on their website on Monday that the 32-year-old has agreed to join them from January 2012.
The Chinese club opted not to provide the financial details of the contract in the statement, although it had been reported it was worth approximately 200,000 pounds per week.However, Shenhua spokesperson Ma Yue denied the rumours, telling AFP: "I cannot confirm his salary at the moment. I can just say the final amount could be different from 200,000 pounds."
Speaking on Weibo, the Chinese equivalent of Twitter, Shenhua skipper Yu Tao said: "It's impossible not to be excited by this - a warm welcome to our new team-mate!"Anelka, who was also chased by English Championship outfit West Ham and MLS club Montreal Impact, joins Shanghai after falling down the pecking order at Chelsea under Andre Villas-Boas.
The French striker was due to come out of contract at Stamford Bridge at the end of the current season and had handed in a transfer request earlier this month.Shenhua, who are owned by the enigmatic Zhu Jun, finished the 2011 CSL in 11th and have not won the Chinese title since 2003.
The Shanghai outfit have also been in discussions with former Fulham and Bordeaux boss Jean Tigana about taking over as the club's new coach.
Everton manager David Moyes has revealed he is interested in signing Thierry Henry on loan from New York Red Bulls.The former Arsenal striker is training with the Gunners during the MLS close season, and it appears a loan move to a European club could be on the cards with the American league not beginning until March.
Everton made a similar arrangement with Los Angeles Galaxy in January 2010 to sign USA international Landon Donovan on three-month loan.The forward made 13 appearances in all competitions, scoring two goals, and won the club's player of the month award in January.Henry was present as Arsenal hosted Everton on Saturday, giving the Blues boss the opportunity to ask the former France international for his thoughts on a move.
Moyes told The Sun: "I already asked him on the way in. I asked him, he'll tell you; if he wants a game let me know. I'm hoping we might be able to do something."Louis Saha, Everton's only experienced striker, was taken off midway through the second half during the 1-0 defeat and replaced with centre-back Sylvain Distin.The sales of Yakubu and Jermaine Beckford over the off-season have left Moyes with just 19-year-old Apostolos Vellios, Argentine Denis Stracqualursi, and the currently injured Victor Anichebe to turn to for the lone striker role.
Meanwhile, Arsenal winger Theo Walcott insisted that Henry is still up to the task of playing in the Premier League."Thierry still looks good, (he) is training with us and you hear (our) fans chanting: 'sign him up, sign up'," Walcott said. "I don't know if there's any chance - you'd have to ask the boss that.""He's still fit, playing in the MLS and enjoys playing his football so much that I don't think he wants the break."
Van Persie: Wonder goal was a gamble
Robin van Persie admitted a "gamble" put the icing on the cake of Arsenal's 125th anniversary celebrations on Saturday.
O'Neill celebrates 'surreal' victory
Martin O'Neill celebrated his first match in charge of Sunderland in "surreal" fashion with a dramatic late victory over Blackburn.
Ba: Magpies not in slump
Demba Ba insists Newcastle's season is not in danger of unravelling after they suffered their third defeat in four games with a 4-2 loss at Norwich.
Dalglish happy to see Suarez score
Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish is relieved that striker Luis Suarez broke his two-month scoring duck with the winning goal against QPR on Saturday.
Jones: Rooney worth more than goals
Phil Jones does not believe Wayne Rooney has to score in order to make a positive contribution to the Manchester United cause.
Mancini not writing off Chelsea's chances
Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini claims Chelsea remain serious title rivals despite City's large lead in the Premier League table.
AVB rules out Modric or Cahill bids
Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas claims to have no plans to make a January move for Gary Cahill, or return for summer target Luka Modric.
Short: Bruce sacking not rash decision
Sunderland chairman Ellis Short has revealed former manager Steve Bruce lost his job because his team had underperformed for too long.
Gazidis: Wenger to stay long-term
Arsenal chief executive Ivan Gazidis insists that Arsene Wenger remains committed to the club for the 'long-term'.
PSG confirm Tevez interest
Paris Saint Germain sporting director Leonardo has confirmed the club are in the market for Carlos Tevez.
Shanghai Shenhua claim Anelka deal
Chelsea striker Nicolas Anelka has agreed a contract with Chinese Super League side Shanghai Shenhua.
Wenger identifies Arsenal turning points
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has identified the games that have been crucial in his side's revival this season.
AVB: Drogba age not an issue
Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas claims that Didier Drogba's advancing years are not a problem as long as the striker keeps performing for the club.
Orr: Luis Suarez is unplayable
Queens Park Rangers defender Bradley Orr has lavished praise on Liverpool striker Luis Suarez.
Chelsea announce Anelka exit
Chelsea have confirmed on their official website that a deal has been reached with Chinese Super League side Shangahi Shenhua for striker Nicolas Anelka.
Fergie hoping for rampant Rooney
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson is fervently hoping ace striker Wayne Rooney can enter a purple patch after his brace against Wolves on Saturday.
Chamakh to consider Arsenal future
Arsenal striker Marouane Chamakh insists he will not leave the club in January, but will make a decision on his future at the end of the season.
Seedorf: Tevez goes where the money is
AC Milan midfielder Clarence Seedorf says Carlos Tevez has always gone to the club that has offered him the most money.
Clichy: City can beat anyone
Manchester City defender Gael Clichy claims the team are confident of beating anybody.
Phil Neville defends brother Gary
Everton captain Phil Neville maintains his brother Gary is always "honest" in his new role as a television pundit.
United plan swoop for 17-year-old
Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is eyeing a potential replacement for left-back Patrice Evra in the form of PSV Eindhoven's Jetro Willems.
Mata: Man City are no Barcelona
Chelsea winger Juan Mata insists Manchester City are far from the level of Barcelona and that his side hold no fear for them ahead of Monday's clash.
Report: Rovers, Wolves want McCormack
Blackburn and Wolves are set to make a move for Leeds striker Ross McCormack in January, Press Association Sport understands.
Smalling eyes Jones partnership
Chris Smalling insists he and Phil Jones are ready to become the heart of Manchester United's defence.
Redknapp slams ref over decisions
Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp was in no doubt refereeing decisions cost his side after a controversial defeat at Stoke on Sunday afternoon.
Crouch denies handball in Stoke win
Peter Crouch denied he handled the ball in the build-up to Stoke's first goal as they ended Tottenham's long unbeaten run in the Premier League with a 2-1 win at the Britannia Stadium.
Arsenal lose Santos for three months
Arsenal head into the hectic festive schedule with no recognised full-back after Andre Santos was ruled out for around three months with ankle ligament damage.
Ferguson: United squad depth is vital
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson knows he will have to utilise the full depth of his squad as the fixture list picks up over the festive period.
Stefan Frei offered Liverpool chance
Toronto FC goalkeeper Stefan Frei has been granted permission to undertake a spell training at Liverpool.
DJ Campbell ready to dance again
QPR striker DJ Campbell is ready to throw himself back into action against Manchester United next weekend after making a long-awaited return from injury at Liverpool.
Martinez hopeful of new Moses deal
Wigan boss Roberto Martinez claims Victor Moses is close to agreeing a new contract at the club.
Rodgers hopes for Sinclair goals
Swansea boss Brendan Rodgers expects Scott Sinclair to kick on after the winger grabbed his first Premier League goal from open play in the 2-0 victory over Fulham.
QPR observing Joe Lewis
Peterborough goalkeeper Joe Lewis could be set to join Queens Park Rangers in the January transfer window.
Coyle not scared by Bolton fight
Bolton manager Owen Coyle does not fear the sack and is determined to continue the fight to drag his side out of the relegation zone.
Jol denies rift with Zamora
Fulham martin Martin Jol is adamant he has no problems with striker Bobby Zamora.
Wenger: No Jan move for Gourcuff
Arsene Wenger has ruled out a bid to take Lyon playmaker Yoann Gourcuff to Arsenal during the January transfer window.
McCarthy wary of Fletcher interest
Mick McCarthy has praised Steven Fletcher's reluctance to court publicity, but acknowledges that his fine form is likely to spark interest.
McLeish wants to keep Petrov
Aston Villa manager Alex McLeish has dismissed reports that he will try to offload captain Stiliyan Petrov in the January transfer window.
Pavlyuchenko in QPR claim
Roman Pavlyuchenko's agent claims Queens Park Rangers have been offered the chance to sign the Tottenham Hotspur striker in January.
Dalglish: We won't change our style
Liverpool tactician Kenny Dalglish insisted he is not losing any sleep over his side’s continued profligacy in front of goal.
Carrick: United must stick to the top
Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick is adamant that the Red Devils are all revved up to make a Premier League challenge in the New Year.
AVB bullish after ending City run
Andre Villas-Boas dismissed Manchester City's seven-point lead over Chelsea as "nothing" after masterminding their first Barclays Premier League defeat of the season.
AVB rejects goal celebration rule
Andre Villas-Boas has rejected recent rumours of wanting to be involved in any goal celebrations with his players.
Shanghai Shenhua target Drogba next
Chinese club Shanghai Shenhua have confirmed that they are aiming to bring Didier Drogba to the club after signing his Chelsea teammate Nicolas Anelka.
Lampard wants Chelsea stay
Frank Lampard has pledged his future to Chelsea for the remainder of his contract after helping them to claim a 2-1 win over Manchester City on Monday night.
Agent: Chamakh not rejoining Bordeaux
Marouane Chamakh’s agent has dismissed the possibility of the out-of-favour Arsenal forward rejoining Girondins de Bordeaux at the end of the season.
Woodgate: Spurs are title contenders
Former Tottenham defender Jonathan Woodgate expects his old club to mount a serious title challenge but is not dwelling on what might have been.
Kuyt unworried by goal shortage
Liverpool forward Dirk Kuyt remains philosophical about his own barren spell as goals remain hard to come by for the rest of the team.
Mancini bemoans refereeing decisions
Roberto Mancini hit out at referee Mark Clattenburg after watching Chelsea end his Manchester City side's unbeaten start to the Barclays Premier League season.
AVB: Title race is back on
Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas believes that his side are back in the title race after a 2-1 win over league leaders Manchester City narrowed the gap to only seven points.
Ferguson ready for fixture crunch 13 December 2011
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson says he will utilise his entire squad over the busy festive period.Ferguson's men will play five English Premier League matches in 18 days before their crunch encounter with city rivals Manchester City in the FA Cup third round on January 8.
Ferguson is already without first-team players Javier Hernandez, Michael Owen, Tom Cleverley and Anderson, while captain Nemanja Vidic is set to miss the rest of the season with knee ligament damage."December is a particularly busy month when we often play eight or nine games," he told Inside United.
"We've got a Boxing Day game, a New Year's Eve game ... it's going to be a hectic spell and that's when the squad really kicks in."Despite the club's lengthy injury list, Ferguson has played down the likelihood of any new additions at Old Trafford in the January transfer window.
However, former United centre-midfielder Nicky Butt believes the boss will make changes to his side if the need for reinforcements becomes apparent."Every team can improve, no matter who they are," Butt told the club's official website."Even Barcelona can improve so I'm sure Sir Alex will sign players, whether it be in midfield, defence or up front. He's always looking to enhance his squad."
Butt also believes the Red Devils need to find a settled partnership in the centre of midfield, with Darren Fletcher, Michael Carrick, Ryan Giggs and even Wayne Rooney all playing in the middle of the park in recent weeks."I think it's difficult to pick the four starting across the midfield," Butt said.
"In years gone by, everyone knew who the strongest four or five was. It's different now but we've still got some good players.""I think Sir Alex will be looking to try and get a steady pairing in the centre. He's had injuries to Darren Fletcher, Clevlerley and Anderson so it's been difficult to get a regular line-up in midfield. It helps when you can get everyone on a roll and playing well together."
Premier League: Chelsea 2 Manchester City 1 13 December 2011
Chelsea ended Manchester City's unbeaten Premier League campaign, with a 2-1 win at Stamford Bridge on Monday.Goals to Raul Meireles and Frank Lampard cancelled out Mario Balotelli's opener to send the Blues into third spot, and ensure title challengers Manchester United remain just two points from leaders City.
Gael Clichy was sent off midway through the second half for the visitors, meaning he will miss his side's clash with Arsenal on Sunday.City opened the scoring inside two minutes, after a fine through ball from Argentine striker Sergio Aguero found Balotelli.
The Italian rounded the onrushing Petr Cech and calmly slotted into an empty net for his eighth league goal this campaign, and fifth in five Premier League starts.Portuguese midfielder Meireles let fly from 25 yards out moments later as the home side looked for a quick reply but his effort sailed wide of Joe Hart's goal.Meireles again tried his luck to get his side level but his shot was deflected over the bar.
From the resulting corner, the Blues failed to test Hart and instead the ball went down the other end and Aguero should have doubled City's lead.Aguero held off Jose Bosingwa before dancing his way past Ashley Cole and Romeu, but his left-footed shot went the wrong side of the post.Meireles finally got his reward for his determination on 34 minutes, as he was on hand - and unmarked - to volley home Daniel Sturridge's cross from inside the six-yard box.
City defender Clichy collected a second yellow after a clumsy challenge on Ramires just prior to the hour mark, and Chelsea took control of possession accordingly.City's resistance gave way eventually, when Joleon Lescott used his arms to block Sturridge's curling effort on goal, and referee Mark Clattenburg immediately pointed to the spot.
Substitute Lampard, making his 350th Premier League appearance, made no mistake from the spot minutes after coming on for Meireles and thundered the penalty straight down the middle of Hart's goal to send the home fans into raptures.
Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli looks set to face disciplinary action after breaking curfew ahead of Monday's trip to Chelsea.
Balotelli was seen in 'Zouk', a restaurant in the centre of Manchester, in the early hours of Sunday morning, despite instructions from the English Premier League leaders not to go out within 48 hours of the game at Stamford Bridge.
City have confirmed that a curfew was in place and Balotelli will be expected to offer an explanation to manager Roberto Mancini.
The striker was not drinking, but was out beyond 1am, violating the curfew set out by the Italian boss.
The 21-year-old has been the source of much scrutiny in the media in recent months, infamously setting his house on fire with a firework the day before City's 6-1 romp over rivals Manchester United in October.
Report: Chelsea ready to offload Torres
Chelsea's patience with misfiring £50million forward Fernando Torres appears to have snapped with the club willing to listen to offers for him in the January transfer window.
Blackburn deny cash crisis reports
Blackburn have denied reports they are on the verge of a financial crisis.
Sorensen mulling over contract extension
Stoke City goalkeeper Thomas Sorensen is mulling over signing a two-year contract extension.
Fletcher to take indefinite break
Darren Fletcher put his own health at risk in order to help the Manchester United cause before finally admitting defeat on Tuesday.
Redknapp warned over Foy comments
Harry Redknapp has been warned over his future conduct following his post-match comments about the performance of referee Chris Foy during Tottenham's defeat at Stoke.
Agent: No Chelsea offer for Vargas
Chelsea have made no formal offer for Chilean forward Eduardo Vargas, according to the player's agent.
Mancini calls on City to be strong
Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has urged his players to "stay strong" following their first Premier League defeat of the season.
Wenger open towards January spending
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger admits he could be tempted into the January sales if "an opportunity turns up".
Mata backs 'legend' Lampard
Juan Mata has backed "legend" Frank Lampard to force his way back into the Chelsea side after the England midfielder again vented his frustration at being dropped.
No England for Redknapp for now
Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy says manager Harry Redknapp is not interested in the England job "at the present time".
Barkley: David Moyes knows best
Everton youngster Ross Barkley believes manager David Moyes is the ideal man to get the best out of him.
Rodgers eyes away win breakthrough
Swansea manager Brendan Rodgers believes his side's first away win of the season is just around the corner.
Wigan duo confident of survival
James McCarthy and James McArthur are confident Wigan can play their way to Premier League survival, with recent results offering renewed hope.
Spearing desperate to prove his worth
Liverpool midfielder Jay Spearing admits he has to prove his value to the team in order to persuade manager Kenny Dalglish he does not need to bring in reinforcements.
Johnson: Nothing will shake Suarez
Glen Johnson insists Liverpool team-mate Luis Suarez will not be affected by all the furore surrounding him.
Cech: Chelsea back in title race
Petr Cech believes Chelsea's 2-1 victory over Manchester City on Monday has thrown the Premier League title race wide open, with the Blues back in the hunt.
Mancini cites Cole in tunnel spat
Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini suggested Chelsea defender Ashley Cole was at the centre of a tunnel bust-up following the Blues' 2-1 win at Stamford Bridge.
Vaughan: Cats thriving under O'Neill David Vaughan reckons Martin O'Neill has already put the self-belief back into Sunderland.
Fulham goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer faces up to six weeks on the sidelines with a spinal injury.
Chelsea deny Cole taunt claims
Chelsea have denied that Ashley Cole taunted Manchester City's players immediately after Monday night's 2-1 victory at Stamford Bridge.
Mertesacker: I'll get better with time
German defender Per Mertesacker believes he can go from strength to strength at the heart of the Arsenal backline.
FA begin Suarez hearing
The Football Association have begun the disciplinary hearing into claims that Liverpool striker Luis Suarez racially abused Manchester United defender Patrice Evra.
Agent: Sandro pondering Serie A move
The agent of Tottenham midfielder Sandro has revealed that the Brazilian is considering a move to the Serie A after struggling to hold down a first-team place.
Spartak eye Pavlyuchenko move
Spartak Moscow are keen on re-signing Roman Pavlyuchenko, with coach Valery Karpin confirming the club's interest in the Tottenham striker.
Johnson: Reds will win big soon
Liverpool full back Glen Johnson believes that his side are long overdue for a big win after their struggles in front of goal.
Ince: United need Modric or Iniesta
Former Manchester United midfielder Paul Ince believes the transfer window has come at the right time for the club.
Redknapp wants two referees
Harry Redknapp believes football should experiment with two referees after a recent spate of controversial decisions.
Bolton to take a look at Ream
Owen Coyle is keen to see what USA international Tim Ream has to offer after the defender linked up with Bolton Wanderers for a week-long trial.
No axe talks for Lampard
Frank Lampard is eager to play as much as possible, but admits he has not discussed his recent axing with Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas.
Yaya Toure torn over club and country
Yaya Toure admits he feels "guilty and confused" about having to leave to play in the Africa Cup of Nations next month.
Meireles calls for Drogba to stay
Chelsea midfielder Raul Meireles hopes team-mate Didier Drogba will extend his stay at Stamford Bridge past next summer.
Richards in line for Arsenal clash
Micah Richards is ready to return and ease Manchester City's full-back crisis for Sunday's Premier League encounter with Arsenal.
Milner: We're gunning for Arsenal
Manchester City wide man James Milner reckoned that Arsenal will face the wrath of the Citizens following their 2-1 reverse to Chelsea on Monday.
Redknapp planning shock Tevez raid
Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp is planning an audacious swoop for Manchester City’s want-away forward Carlos Tevez.
Wenger: Vieira signing bought me respect 14 December 2011
Arsene Wenger believes the signing of Patrick Vieira helped him to win over the fans at Arsenal.Wenger was somewhat of an unknown when he took over the Gunners in 1996 from J.League side Nagoya Grampus Eight, with Vieira his first signing following his arrival at the club.
The French midfielder went on to make 406 appearances with Arsenal during a nine-year spell, becoming the club captain during that time.Speaking at a Q and A session at Emirates Stadium on Wednesday, Wenger told supporters that Vieira’s success after his signing from AC Milan helped him to earn the respect of the fans.
"People like Patrick Vieira I have a lot of fond memories of - he was the first player I bought," Wenger said."When you buy your first one and he is the right one it gives you a lot of credit. I arrived here with little credit and Vieira, by coincidence, had the English qualities - he could battle with anybody - and also brought something from the technical French side."
"He had a great combination of the English fighting spirit, the bravery and the technical qualities of a midfielder.""He is probably the one who gave me most credit and time to convince people that I could manage at this level." Vieira left in 2005, two years before another of the club's legends, all-time top scorer Thierry Henry, also departed.
Henry, who recently had a statue built to commemorate his time at the club as part of the Gunners' 125th anniversary, left to join Barcelona in La Liga. Vieira switched to Serie A outfit Juventus, despite both having several years left in their career.But Wenger explained that the thought of not recouping any money from the duo to spend on new players was what drove him to reluctantly let them leave north London.
"In general, what is very important to understand is that we survived at the top in selling our good players," Wenger said."What happened is that we sold them around the age of 29 and 30. Why? Because we needed the money and for them to not go for free.""I adopted a way of thinking that it was better to sell a player one year too early than one year too late. If you sell too late you don't get any money and you cannot buy anymore. If you sell a player early he can still sign a longer contract somewhere else."
"In the cases of players like Patrick and Thierry, they were players who had given us nine years - their best years. Patrick could have made twice as much somewhere else with a four-year contract, but I did not want to give that to him.""What happens in football is that a player goes over his peak and you still have to pay him the maximum money. There's always a difference between the moment when a player is well paid and his performance - there is a delay."
"When you get to a player who is 29, 30 years old and you want to renew his contract, you pay mega money knowing that he will give you two years at his best when he is a striker.""You have to be calculated and ask if you can pay this money, then ask if you can keep five or six players who are into their 30s and cannot give you their maximum.""Of course in these situations you can only achieve things as men, with heart and respect. But in these situations your intelligence has to rule your heart. That is vital."
Ince: United need Modric or Iniesta Former Manchester United midfielder Paul Ince believes the transfer window has come at the right time for the club.
United announced that midfielder Darren Fletcher is to take an extended break from the game because he is suffering from ulcerative colitis, a chronic inflammatory bowel condition. The Old Trafford club had previously stated they did not intend doing much activity in the transfer window - but Ince believes the absence of the Scotland international means they may reverse that decision.
With fellow midfielders Anderson and Tom Cleverley sidelined and central defender Nemanja Vidic also injured, Ince believes Tottenham's Luka Modric may interest manager Sir Alex Ferguson. Ince told BBC Radio Five Live: "I feel they need that creativity in midfield, losing Paul Scholes was a big loss obviously.
"You're not going to get players like Roy Keane or Bryan Robson, those players aren't around anymore. "The game has changed since then and you don't get those type of characters, so he (Ferguson) has got to look at another way of controlling the midfield and I think that can come from creativity in someone like Luka Modric or Andres Iniesta, they are the players I would be looking at.
"I'm sure Sir Alex will take stock and he'll be looking at what type of player he will need in January and it won't just be in midfield, I'm sure he's looking at a centre-half with Vidic being out."But I'm sure he knows what to do, there's no point me telling him what to do because he's the greatest manager I've ever played under."
Former West Ham, Liverpool and United midfielder Ince also believes a goalscorer should be on Ferguson's wishlist, particularly with Javier Hernandez out for several weeks with an ankle injury. He added: "There is a lot of pressure on Rooney and we saw what that did to him in the World Cup.
"If you are going to compete with the likes of Manchester City and Chelsea you need someone who is going to score you 20 goals a season and you can't just rely on Wayne Rooney to do it year in and year out. "Nani has chipped in and Ashley Young was flying early on, but they have quietened down form-wise, so you wonder where the goals are going to come from.
"[Dimitar] Berbatov's not playing enough, Michael Owen is out injured again and Danny Welbeck is still a young lad but he will chip in with goals."
Shearer: RVP up there with the best
Newcastle legend Alan Shearer believes Robin van Persie deserves to be placed among the other Premier League greats like him.
Redknapp ignores England talk
Harry Redknapp insists he will not let talk of him becoming the next England manager derail his attempt to get Tottenham back in to the Champions League.
Shelvey eyes Liverpool starting place
Jonjo Shelvey has his sights firmly set on the Liverpool first team following his successful loan spell with Blackpool.
Swansea close to Donnelly deal
Swansea are closing in on a deal for Cliftonville striker Rory Donnelly after having an improved bid for the teenager accepted on Tuesday night.
Lowe fit to face West Brom
Blackburn's Jason Lowe has declared himself fit to make an immediate return to the team.
McCarthy: Fletcher not for sale
Wolves manager Mick McCarthy has made it clear Steven Fletcher is not for sale.
Villa: Delfouneso not for sale
Aston Villa insist they want Nathan Delfouneso to remain at the club after weekend speculation linking the England Under-21 striker with a move to Sunderland.
Olsson stalls on West Brom deal
Jonas Olsson has revealed he has reservations about extending his West Brom contract despite starting talks over a new deal.
Kompany: We're hungrier than ever
Vincent Kompany believes Manchester City will be even more determined to beat Arsenal on Sunday following the end of their unbeaten Barclays Premier League record.
Injured Manchester United skipper Nemanja Vidic believes the club can have a successful Christmas period despite his absence from the side.
Krul wants Newcastle stay
Tim Krul wants to stay at Newcastle for a 'long time' and has set his sights on winning a first-team place for Holland in time for Euro 2012.
Kranjcar happy at Tottenham
Niko Kranjcar insists he will not be demanding to leave Tottenham when the transfer window opens next month.
Albrighton rules out Rangers move
Marc Albrighton has pledged his immediate future to Aston Villa and dismissed reports linking him with a move to Rangers.
Alcaraz boost for Latics
Wigan defender Antolin Alcaraz has been cleared of serious injury but remains doubtful for this weekend's Barclays Premier League clash against Chelsea.
Coyle keen on Tim Ream
Bolton boss Owen Coyle can understand why the New York Red Bulls want to keep hold of Tim Ream - but has not ruled out a move for the United States defender in January.
Big guns face 'difficult' Cheik pursuit
Newcastle boss Alan Pardew has warned the Barclays Premier League big guns it will cost them a fortune to lure Cheik Tiote away from Tyneside next month.
Dalglish offers shoulder for Suarez
Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish would not comment on Luis Suarez's ongoing disciplinary hearing but once again offered the club's full support to the striker.
Gunners relaxed over RVP deal
Arsenal remain confident captain Robin van Persie will not leave the club at the end of the season.
AVB insists Torres not for sale
Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas insists he's not looking to offload £50million flop Fernando Torres and has also endorsed the 'massive magnitude' of Frank Lampard.
Redknapp: Modric, Bale not for sale
Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp has insisted that the club will not accept any offers for Luka Modric or Gareth Bale.
Suarez hearing set for conclusion
Liverpool striker Luis Suarez's disciplinary hearing on a charge that he racially abused Manchester United defender Patrice Evra is due to end on Thursday.
Tevez: I'm not returning to England
Another twist in the Carlos Tevez saga sees the Manchester City striker claiming he will not go back to England and desires to join Boca Juniors.
United youngster set for Inter talks
Manchester United youngster Paul Pogba is ready to walk out of Old Trafford and join Italian giants Inter Milan.
Chelsea line up Higuain move
Chelsea are weighing up a shock move for Real Madrid striker Gonzalo Higuain in the January transfer window.
Shearer: RVP up there with the best
Newcastle legend Alan Shearer believes Robin van Persie deserves to be placed among the other Premier League greats like him.
Maldini: Bale lacks defensive skills Legendary AC Milan defender Paolo Maldini believes that Tottenham's Gareth Bale will not make a good left-back due to his lack of defensive skills.
Ramsey: Young Gunners will get stronger Aaron Ramsey feels Arsenal's young midfield can only grow stronger.
Manchester United rule out Valencia exit Manchester United will refuse to entertain the notion of selling winger Antonio Valencia in the upcoming January transfer market.
"Gerrard needs to lead new signings" Ex Liverpool midfielder Gary McAllister has underlined the importance of stalwart Steven Gerrard returning to fitness quickly in order to inspire the club’s summer signings.
Hodgson keen to keep Dorrans Roy Hodgson insists West Brom have "no interest" in selling midfielder Graham Dorrans who has been linked with a move to Rangers.
Dalglish coy about Jan transfer activity Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish is keeping his options open when it comes to strengthening his squad in the transfer window.
Martinez denies Rodallega bust-up
Wigan boss Roberto Martinez insists Hugo Rodallega remains a big part of his plans and has no issues with the striker.
Richards plays down Balotelli fight Manchester City defender Micah Richards has played down an apparent training ground confrontation with controversial striker Mario Balotelli.
Pennant denies rift with Pulis Jermaine Pennant has played down reports of a rift between himself and Stoke boss Tony Pulis.
New evidence in Terry race row The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has said it received further evidence on Tuesday regarding John Terry's alleged racial slur towards Anton Ferdinand.
AVB: I will make Torres great again Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas declared on Thursday he would not rest until he made Fernando Torres one of the best strikers in the =3]world again.
Donovan all set for Everton return United States international Landon Donovan has agreed to join Everton on a two-month loan from MLS side Los Angeles Galaxy.
Suarez could have to wait for verdict Liverpool striker Luis Suarez should find out on Friday whether his defence against a racism charge has been successful.
Park ready to wait for Arsenal chance Park Chu-young intends to make the most of any "random chances" which might come his way for Arsenal in 2012.
Jagielka: Drenthe is a threat
Defender Phil Jagielka admits team-mate Royston Drenthe's unpredictability can be "a pain" but accepts it is also a significant threat to opponents.
West Brom agree Allan fee
West Brom have agreed an undisclosed fee with Dundee United for midfielder Scott Allan.
City wary of Gunners; United eye summit
Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany is confident his side can bounce back to winning ways when they host in-form Arsenal on Sunday.
Pardew: I hate the transfer window
Newcastle boss Alan Pardew believes only Roberto Mancini and Sir Alex Ferguson can say with any confidence that their players are not for sale next month.
Coyle demands more from Bolton
Bolton boss Owen Coyle has warned his players nobody has an excuse for underperforming in a Wanderers shirt, whether they want to stay at the club or not.
Festive season no worry for Dalglish
A packed festive programme holds no worries for Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish as he seeks to balance Barclays Premier League and cup commitments.
No protests planned for Rovers
There will be no organised protests at Blackburn's next two home games, it has been confirmed.
Wenger saw Yaya Toure potential
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger revealed that Manchester City midfielder Yaya Toure was "average" when he turned out for the Gunners as a raw youngster in a pre-season friendly.
Pulis puzzled by McCarthy criticism
Stoke boss Tony Pulis has hit out at the section of Wolves fans calling for the head of manager Mick McCarthy.
Skrtel lauds Liverpool backline
Martin Skrtel believes that Liverpool's efensive form has been crucial in keeping them in touch with the top four despite their goalscoring woes.
Ferguson: I can't predict relegation battle
Sir Alex Ferguson admits he doesn't have a clue who will go down from the Premier League this season.
In-form Ba preparing to depart
Demba Ba admits it will be a huge wrench to leave his Newcastle team-mates behind when he heads off on African Cup of Nations duty.
Hodgson respects dignified Kean
West Brom boss Roy Hodgson has praised the "mental strength" of his Blackburn counterpart Steve Kean in coping with constant calls for him to quit by his own fans.
Coyle: Bolton fans deserve better
Owen Coyle is determined to turn Bolton's fortunes around to pay back the Wanderers fans who have been so good to him in his time as both a player and manager at the club.
Martinez ready to attack Chelsea
Wigan boss Roberto Martinez is prepared to risk another 6-0 thrashing by Chelsea in search of a win on Saturday.
Redknapp rules out Spurs X'mas party
Harry Redknapp has banned Tottenham from enjoying another Christmas party and told his multi-millionaire stars it is a small sacrifice for the money they earn.
Pogba may answer Ferguson call
Sir Alex Ferguson may turn to 18-year-old Paul Pogba to ease his Manchester United midfield crisis.
Villas-Boas content with forwards
Andre Villas-Boas has claimed Chelsea have no plans to sign a striker, despite the prospect of losing Nicolas Anelka, Didier Drogba and Salomon Kalou in January.
O'Neill plans Gyan chat
Sunderland boss Martin O'Neill plans to contact striker Asamoah Gyan next week amid speculation he could be recalled from his loan spell in the United Arab Emirates.
New Everton deal for Barkley
Everton teenager Ross Barkley has signed a new four-and-a half-year deal with the club.
Mancini plays down Balotelli behaviour
Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has laughed off the latest controversy surrounding fiery striker Mario Balotelli.
Sunderland pair held over car damage
Two Premier League footballers have been arrested after cars were damaged in a city centre.
Despite a growing injury list, Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson says he will not be rushed into making signings in January.
The Premier League champions already have Tom Cleverley, Michael Owen, Javier Hernandez, Fabio, Rafael, Darren Fletcher and Nemanja Vidic out, with the latter two of particular concern given their lengthy injuries.
"It's never been a route we've taken consistently, unless it's a player we've always been interested in that appears and there's no sign of that at the moment," Ferguson said."It's not always suitable to us. Darren (Fletcher) is a loss to us and he's such a great professional - it's not easy to replace that, but we'll have to think about it."
United travel to Queens Park Rangers on Sunday as they aim to close the gap on their local rivals Manchester City."I think they have done well Queens Park Rangers and they've given themselves a chance by investing to stay in the Premier League. They've brought in a few players and they're not going to be easy," he said.
"It's a possibility (young French midfielder Paul Pogba could play) because he is a big strong lad. He's a good athlete and he is improving, he's developing well."
Mancini: Three teams in title race 17 December 2011
Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini claims his side, Manchester United and Tottenham are the main contenders for the Premier League title.City currently sit top of the table after securing 38 points from 15 games with local rivals United just two points behind on 36, while Spurs sit in fourth on 31 with a game in hand on all top-half sides.
Although not dismissing the possibility of Arsenal, Chelsea or Liverpool lifting the league trophy in May, the Italian coach feels Sir Alex Ferguson's Red Devils and Harry Redknapp's Spurs represent the greatest threat to their bid for glory.
"At the moment, us, United and maybe Tottenham are the three teams that can fight for the title," the former Inter boss told reporters."But the season is long. Chelsea, Arsenal and, maybe, Liverpool could also try. The season is hard. We have a lot of games to play in the next 40 days."
City were handed a tough draw against Porto in the last 32 of the Europa League on Friday, and with both sides knocked out of the Champions League by finishing third in their respective groups, Mancini admitted the Portuguese outfit will be troublesome opponents.
The Blues boss added: "Manchester City against Porto feels like a Champions League game, it is probably the toughest game we could have had.""I have come up against them as a player before and also a manager, they are a very good team and a very strong club in Europe."
"They are used to playing in Europe, in a great stadium. Not too many years ago they won the Champions League and also won the Europa League last year. So they are a strong team.""It will be a hard match for us. We know this game will be difficult, but also it will be difficult for them.""It is a good game for the fans, a big team coming to Manchester, and we will be looking forward to it."
City host fifth-placed Arsenal on Sunday, six days after losing 2-1 against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, with Frank Lampard's late penalty securing victory after Gael Clichy's second-half sending off."Sooner or later, this had to happen, what happened against Chelsea," Mancini said.
"With 10 players it was difficult and if we didn't only have 10, we wouldn't have lost. But that is it, this is football."While City have won all seven games at the Etihad Stadium this season, Mancini admits that Arsenal striker Robin van Persie may prove a threat, and compared the Dutchman to his forward trio.
"Van Persie is an incredible player. He is like (Sergio) Aguero, (Edin) Dzeko, Mario (Balotelli) - scoring a goal every game," he said."At this moment he is very good, like Arsenal. At this moment they are playing very well."
