Barclays Premier League Season 2011/2012

[David Luiz]

Re: The world most expensive bench warmer is pretty choosy

Ferguson: Player management not easy
Sir Alex Ferguson has admitted there are times when even he gets frustrated by footballers.

Giggs wary of 'fighter' Hughes
Manchester United legend Ryan Giggs has warned his team-mates to expect a tough test from Queens Park Rangers on Sunday.

"Di Matteo would take Chelsea job"
Former Chelsea forward Tore Andre Flo commended Roberto di Matteo's performance as manager and he believes that the Italian secretly desires the role on a full-time basis.

Wenger expects goals from Walcott
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger says he expects a double-figure goal haul from midfielder Theo Walcott every season.

Gerrard calls for patience from fans
Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has called for frustrated fans to be patient as the team try to turn around their wretched run of results.

Dalglish: Reds low on confidence
Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish says it's not lack of pride, but that of self-belief that is stopping his players from being at their best.

Wolves must cope without Hunt
Wolves winger Stephen Hunt has undergone groin surgery and manager Terry Connor expects him to be sidelined for two to three weeks.

Dyer backs Graham to come good
Swansea winger Nathan Dyer is backing Danny Graham to rediscover his goalscoring touch when Newcastle visit the Liberty Stadium on Friday.

Pulis: Pennant will learn from Twitter row
Stoke manager Tony Pulis is hoping Jermaine Pennant has learned his lesson this week after "talking to a bunch of Herberts" on Twitter.

Bendtner coy on future plans
Sunderland loanee Nicklas Bendtner will delay a decision on his future until the summer.

Gallas: We must give everything we can
William Gallas has urged his Tottenham team-mates to give everything for the remainder of the season and not worry about fatigue in their bid to achieve third place.

Agent: Roma would interest Kuyt
Dirk Kuyt's agent has admitted the striker is considering his future at Liverpool with Roma a possible option.

Vidic: Ferdinand proved critics wrong
Nemanja Vidic has described claims earlier this season that central defensive partner Rio Ferdinand was finished as a top-flight force as "nonsense".

PFA call for zero tolerance on diving
Professional Footballers Association chairman Clarke Carlisle has called for the game to take a zero tolerance approach to diving and on-field confrontations.

 

[David Luiz]

Re: The world most expensive bench warmer is pretty choosy


Friday 6th April 2012

Ferguson: Player management not easy

Sir Alex Ferguson has admitted there are times when even he gets frustrated by footballers.

Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has stated that if he was a player, he would have punched his striker Mario Balotelli by now because of all the scrapes the young Italian has got into.

Ferguson has not gone that far. However, even the Manchester United boss admits relationships are not always smooth. There was of course the famous flying boot incident with David Beckham that left the former England skipper nursing a cut above his eye. And while Ferguson prefers to keep such disagreements in-house, the Scot jokingly said he gets driven to distraction.

"Strangle them maybe," he said, when asked if he had ever felt like punching someone. "Players can frustrate you. But it is a difficult industry we are in." Things seem to be going pretty well for United at the moment, though, leaving Ferguson with little to fret about. Victory over QPR at Old Trafford would send them eight points clear of City, who face Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.

And Ferguson will have winger Nani available after a five-match absence with an ankle injury. "Nani is back training," he said. "He is a good addition because he is such a talented player." However, Ferguson confirmed neither Anderson nor Michael Owen would be available to face Mark Hughes' men, who are currently just above the relegation zone on goal difference.

Even with Nani available, it seems unlikely Ferguson would drop man-of-the-moment Antonio Valencia. The Ecuador international has been in outstanding form recently, scoring the late goal at Ewood Park on Monday that put United on track for a priceless three points. There have been suggestions Valencia will ask Ferguson if he can delay surgery to have a plate removed from the ankle he broke at the Copa America last summer, although the operation is news to the United boss.

"I am not sure where the story about his ankle has come from," he said. "It has never been discussed. He has a plate but at the moment it stays there. "As far as his form is concerned, what can you say?
"Antonio has been unbelievable. Absolutely brilliant. "When you have someone like that coming back to their very best, at this time of year, it is a bonus."
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[David Luiz]

How Welbeck took his chance at Manchester United to leave Macheda fearing for his future

Both strikers scored on their debuts in the 2008-09 season but the England international has since risen above his Italian counterpart to become a key part of the Red Devils' squad

Apr 6, 2012 9:30:00 AM

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COMMENT
By Oliver Platt

Danny Welbeck was one of seven Manchester United substitutes on April 5 2009 for a home match against Aston Villa. It was a crucial fixture – United had the chance to leapfrog Liverpoolat the top of the Premier League table with a win but would need to find a way past Martin O'Neill's team without Wayne Rooney and Dimitar Berbatov.

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Sir Alex Ferguson could still, of course, call on Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Tevez to start the match but the duo had been overshadowed by John Carew and Gabriel Agbonlahor, both of whom had scored to give Villa a 2-1 lead, when United made their first change after 67 minutes.

Welbeck had scored a spectacular goal from 30 yards on his league debut in November and must have been readying himself for action given that Park Ji-Sung was the only established attacking player available in reserve.

Whether due to real tactical planning or simply gut feeling, Ferguson opted instead for a 17-year-old debutant named Federico Macheda. Ronaldo equalised and Welbeck finally replaced Tevez just in time to see the gangly Italian striker score one of the most significant goals of the season in stunning fashion.

Remarkably, Macheda repeated the feat six days later against Sunderland and while it would be ludicrous to measure a teenager with two appearances under his belt against Ronaldo, visual similarities, at least, were easy to make. Ronaldo was quicker and more dynamic but he shared with Macheda a lanky frame accompanied by, it appeared, immense talent on the ball.

Comparisons like that, perhaps, went to Macheda's head because very little has come of his career since his dramatic introduction to the football world in April three years ago. Ferguson sympathises with the former Lazio youth player, bemoaning his bad luck, and he might have a point.

A season-and-a-half of limited opportunities with United had likely already stalled his progress and development by the time he joined Sampdoria on loan in January 2011. Macheda featured prominently under Domenico Di Carlo but the Blucerchiati struggled and after Di Carlo was replaced by Alberto Cavasin in March, Macheda did not start another game. Sampdoria would be relegated from Serie A that season.

The 2011-12 campaign heralded a loan spell at QPR but, unfortunately for Macheda, a similar story. Hoops owner Tony Fernandes dispensed with manager Neil Warnock just six days after Macheda had completed his move, which was eventually cut short due to injury. He started only Rangers' two FA Cup fixtures against League One side MK Dons.

Welbeck may not have grabbed the headlines so early in his career but his rise since the tail end of that season has been, on the whole, a lot smoother. He joined Preston North End for the second half of the 2009-10 season and made eight appearances before injury ended his season.

Despite that setback, Welbeck did enough to earn himself a season-long loan deal in the Premier League with Sunderland for the 2010-11 campaign. At Preston, Welbeck had played under Sir Alex Ferguson's son, Darren, and at the Stadium of Light he was to link up with a former United captain in Steve Bruce. Neither manager lasted another 12 months after Welbeck had departed but he, unlike Macheda, was fortunate enough to avoid those managerial changes.

Welbeck's rise and Macheda's struggles cannot be attributed to a simple lack of luck, however.

Welbeck immediately proved that Ferguson's faith in him at the beginning of this season was justified with a series of performances full of energy and drive that have not let up as the campaign has progressed. Javier Hernandez offered the same brand of humble effort in his debut season and became not only one of United's most important players but one of their most popular, too. On the international stage, too, the gangly striker has already won four England caps since making his debut against Ghana back in March last year.

Perhaps the most impressive feature of Welbeck's play has been the intelligence of his off the ball movement. Macheda struggles to influence games when not frequently in possession in the same way that Welbeck does by creating the space in which the likes of Rooney are able to thrive.

In short, Welbeck has matured into a professional footballer. Ferguson, since plucking Eric Cantona from Leeds United, has always had an appreciation for stylish, naturally gifted forwards but the importance of fitting seamlessly into a system is increasing, even in attacking positions, in the modern game and Macheda cannot get by on natural ability alone.

Warnock insisted that Ferguson had no interest in selling Macheda but the 20-year-old remains very much a work in progress. For now, he would do well to temporarily take his eyes off of his heroes and learn from the progress of a team-mate who has come a long way in three years.

 

[David Luiz]

Grand Sam Sunday: Ending Nasri's title hopes provides Arsenal extra incentive against Manchester City
The Frenchman is the latest in a long line of Gunners to leave north London for the Blues in the past three years but his money-driven transfer is arguably most resented by fans

Roberto Mancini has concerns about his Manchester City future
The Italian is under pressure during a title tussle with neighbours Manchester United but believes the club will soon be winning two or three trophies a year

'Van Persie v Kompany should be fascinating': Winterburn picks his key battles for Arsenal's clash with Manchester City
The former Gunners defender is relishing the prospect of seeing the two captains face off but believes that the midfield duel will prove vital in the Emirates Stadium showdown

David Silva 'relaxed' over Manchester City contract talks
The midfielder also concedes that his recent performances have struggled to match those of earlier in the season but believes that he has progressed since his arrival in 2010

Manchester United's Park Ji-Sung: One day an Asian team will win the Fifa World Cup
The 31-year-old former South Korea international says Asian nations can continue their recent rise on the world stage and soon lift the prestigious trophy

Sir Alex Ferguson: Valencia does not need surgery
The Red Devils boss explained that a plate put into the in-form Ecuadorian's ankle following a serious injury last season will remain in place for the time being

Kean unsurprised by Keith Andrews form since Blackburn exit
The Irishman left Lancashire in January and has since become a first-team regular under Roy Hodgson at the Hawthorns, scoring two goals in just seven appearances

'He's been brilliant' - Pardew hails Cisse performance against Swansea
The 50-year-old was full of praise for the Senegal international after his two strikes secured three points for Newcastle at the Liberty Stadium on Friday

Jol: Muamba collapse the inspiration for Bolton's form
Ahead of Fulham's trip to the Reebok on Saturday, the Cottagers boss expressed his belief that the Congo-born midfielder's plight has inspired Owen Coyle's side

Kuyt wants to stay at Liverpool - agent
The Dutchman, who has been linked with a move to Roma in the summer, would prefer to stay at Anfield but his representative admits that he would like to return to Feyenoord one day

Van Persie predicts goals galore when Arsenal host Manchester City
The north London side hope to tighten their grip on third place with a victory over Roberto Mancini's faltering outfit, and the striker is expecting an entertaining game

Barcelona are much better than Chelsea, says Zenden
The Dutchman believes that the Primera Division giants have more quality than the Blues, and is hoping for an all-Spanish final in Munich

Redknapp: Tottenham future of ‘excellent’ Adebayor uncertain
The ex-Arsenal striker, who is on loan at White Hart Lane from Manchester City for the season, is uncertain and any possible transfer will not be sorted out until the season ends

Chelsea boss Di Matteo disappointed with FA Cup semi-final scheduling
The coach believes Barcelona will benefit from the extra day's rest ahead of the first leg of their Champions League semi-final and has slammed the governing body for its decision

Dalglish admits enormous challenge to make Liverpool a force again
The 61-year-old believes it is hard to live up to the extraordinary standard of past Anfield successes but praised the current crop of Reds players for their hard-working attitudes

Arsenal victory over Manchester City would not end title race, says Wenger
The Gunners face the Blues at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday and the Frenchman is also adamant his side can return to recent winning ways after last weekend’s 2-1 loss at QPR

Mancini blames faltering Manchester City form on tiredness
The Italian manager claims that his players are suffering with fatigue but revealed that Sergio Aguero and Joleon Lescott could return from injury on Sunday against Arsenal

Cole & Terry ruled out with Lampard a doubt for Chelsea as Wigan come to town
The fifth-placed side will have to make do without their captain and first-choice left-back for Saturday's game, while Roberto Di Matteo calls for focus on Premier League form

Manchester United defender Phil Jones admits he can not escape the title race hype
The Red Devils youngster is learning what it is like to be at the top, and believes the champions' experienced players will prove "invaluable" as they look to secure a 20th title

Bolton's Fabrice Muamba could be home in a week - report
Doctors have been amazed by the 24-year-old's progress, and he could be heading home from hospital soon following his cardiac arrest at White Hart Lane

Gerrard calls for patience from Liverpool supporters
The Reds have endured a shocking run in the league and face a tough battle for European qualification, but the Anfield skipper is confident they can turn it around

Anton Ferdinand ready to shock Manchester United with QPR victory
The Hoops defender has already tasted victory at Old Trafford thanks to a Carlos Tevez strike for West Ham five years ago, and believes he can beat his brother's side once more

Manchester City youth team player forced to apologise for celebrating United victory over Blackburn
Youngster Sam Jones posted a statement of regret apologising for "causing offence" after a series of tweets were read by City officials

A move to England would be a step up, says Sporting's Ricky van Wolfswinkel
The Dutchman admitted that is focusing on Sporting for now but is excited by a potential move to the Premier League, and conceded that he is unlikely to go to Euro 2012

Great Dane: In-form Bendtner has chance to finally win Arsenal fans over by shooting down Tottenham
The 24-year-old failed to truly realise his potential at the Emirates, but away from the spotlight in north London, he has begun to impress on loan at Sunderland

 

[David Luiz]

Manchester City youth team player forced to apologise for celebrating United victory over Blackburn

Youngster Sam Jones posted a statement of regret apologising for "causing offence" after a series of tweets were read by City officials

Apr 6, 2012 11:44:00 AM

By Sion Cleaver

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Manchester City have forced a youth-team player to apologise after he celebrated Manchester United’s win over Blackburn Rovers on Monday on Twitter.

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Sam Jones posted a number of pro-United messages on the social networking site moments after goals from Antonio Valencia and Ashley Young dented Blackburn’s hopes of staying in the league.

The tweets, which were boisterous but never obscene in nature, caught the attention of many Manchester City officials.

Jones’ first post consisted of: “Yeahhhhhhhhhhhh united united united". He then followed up with: “yeahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh what a goal!!!!!” and finally “Game over! Ashley Young you king!”.

Sam Jones has now apologised for the tweets, which were read by a number of City fans and officials, saying: “I am sorry for causing offence. I shouldn’t have said those things. The club has reminded me of my responsibilities.”

 

[David Luiz]

In Pictures: David Beckham and Lionel Messi star in new Adidas advert

The sportswear giants continue their 'all in' campaign by employing the current FIFA World Player of the Year and LA Galaxy midfielder to promote their latest concept

Apr 6, 2012 2:30:00 PM

David Beckham and Lionel Messi have starred in the latest 'Adidas is all in' advert as the sportswear giants continue their biggest ever campaign.

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London 2012 ambassador, Becks, is seen sprinting along the Thames in the advert whilst the World Player of the Year Messi takes to the gritty urban environment of Buenos Aires.

The pair are also joined in the advert by the NBA's most valuable player Derrick Rose and, bizarrely, singer Katy Perry.

A statement accompanied the unveiling of the new advert, reading:

"The campaign concept takes away the boundaries of fame, money, age, gender and geography and showcases that passion unites us all.

"No matter how or why you go all in right this second someone somewhere in this world is going all in with you."

Sounds like a load of old marketing speak to me but there you go! The campaign began just over a year ago, intending to co-operatively spread the Adidas Sport Performance, Originalsand Sport Style brands together.

"Is Messi that marketable?" was a question a leveled at us recently and it's a bit of an opinion divider. Yes, he's the best thing to ever kick a ball around a pitch ever but he's no Becks is he? Not much of a looker and clearly (to his credit) totally disinterested in anything celebrity.

Ronaldo on the other hand! He's a marketing dream (we'd guess, having never worked a day in an office even remotely connected to advertising). Still, the advert has Messi sprinting through a concrete structure - possibly a car park. He's most definitely all in.

 

[David Luiz]

Mrs Wesley Sneijder - Yolanthe Cabau - snapped on Miami set filming 'No Pain No Gain'

Making her first foray into American film-making and flanked by The Rock and Mark Wahlberg, she co-stars in movie about two bodybuilders who wind up in a failed kidnapping plot

Apr 6, 2012 1:58:00 PM

It's not often we get to see acting and WAGs combine but photos have reached us from Miami showing Yolanthe Cabau, wife of Wesley Sneijder, looking resplendent on the set of new film 'No Pain No Gain'.

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You may have also identified Mark Wahlberg as the suited man alongside her. So this is no mere D-list movie, oh no, this is serious business. It even stars Dwayne Johnson. AKA The Rock. From wrestling and 'Tooth Fairy' fame? Oh yes.

This is Cabau's first true foray into Hollywood after previously starring in a number of Dutch TV series. For Walhberg and The Rock it is nothing new.

If you're wondering about the nature of the plot, this should entice you:

"A couple of Florida steroid-abusing knucklehead bodybuilders become criminals involved in an extortion ring and a kidnapping plot that goes horribly awry."

Now if that doesn't get your action film juices flowing, what will? Ahem.

The closest we've come to seeing genuine WAG-related acting were the frightening rumours of 'WAG - the Musical'.

Whilst the musical is still in its infant stages, 'No Pain No Gain' is due out in 2013. And as you can see from the pictures, Yolanthe Cabau's appearance should be the only reason you need to go and see it. We know we will.

Yolanthe and husband Wesley Sneijder​

 

[David Luiz]

Friday 6th April 2012

Premier League Weekend Team News

A round-up of team news ahead of this weekend's Premier League games.

Bolton vs Fulham

Bolton pair Gretar Steinsson and Darren Pratley will be assessed ahead of the visit of Fulham. Defender Steinsson and midfielder Pratley have been sidelined by a knee problem and gashed leg respectively, but could return to action. Gregg Wylde remains unavailable as Bolton are still awaiting clearance from FIFA over their signing of the winger.

Pavel Pogrebnyak is rated as 50-50 for Fulham with a twisted ankle, while fellow striker Andrew Johnson is ruled out with a thigh complaint. Manager Martin Jol can welcome back front man Orlando Sa after a hamstring injury, although the Dutchman has yet to decide whether to include him or Marcello Trotta in the squad. Zdenek Grygera (knee) and Steve Sidwell (hernia) remain on the sidelines.

Chelsea vs Wigan

Chelsea will be without John Terry and Ashley Cole, while Frank Lampard is extremely doubtful. Terry will not be risked due to his cracked ribs, while Cole (ankle) and Lampard (thigh) picked up knocks in Wednesday night's Champions League win over Benfica.

Wigan are boosted by the return of midfielder Mohamed Diame. Diame has missed the last two games with a groin injury, but has trained the last two days and is almost certain to at least be on the bench. Manager Roberto Martinez is again without striker Hugo Rodallega due to a knee injury.

Liverpool vs Aston Villa

Goalkeeper Alexander Doni is set to make his Liverpool debut against Aston Villa as he stands in for the suspended Jose Reina. The Brazilian, who joined from Roma in the summer, made a 57-minute appearance in a 1-0 friendly defeat against Rangers in October before dislocating his finger, but has spent the whole season on the bench. Centre-back Daniel Agger (rib) is edging closer to full fitness, but fellow defenders Glen Johnson and Martin Kelly are slightly further away in terms of a return.

Villa right-back Alan Hutton is expected to be fit after missing the 4-2 home defeat by Chelsea last weekend with a calf injury. Rookie striker Andreas Weimann, who made his first league start against the Blues, is doubtful with an ankle injury while winger Charles N'Zogbia (knee), striker Darren Bent (ankle), defenders Richard Dunne (shoulder) and Carlos Cuellar (thigh) and midfielder Fabian Delph (ankle) are all unavailable. Skipper Stiliyan Petrov this week began treatment for acute leukaemia.

Norwich vs Everton

Norwich captain Grant Holt returns from a one-match suspension while winger Anthony Pilkington is back in training following a hamstring problem, but remains short of match fitness. Defenders Marc Tierney (groin) and Daniel Ayala (knee) aggravated injuries when playing for the reserves in midweek, while striker James Vaughan (knee) also continues his rehabilitation.

Everton midfielders Jack Rodwell, Seamus Coleman and Royston Drenthe all remain doubtful for the trip to Carrow Road. Rodwell (hamstring) and Coleman (thigh) have missed the last five and four matches respectively but are edging closer to full fitness. Drenthe has been on extended compassionate leave having last featured against Arsenal on March 21.

Stoke vs Wolves

Stoke manager Tony Pulis has doubts over three players, with defender Andy Wilkinson (groin) and wingers Matthew Etherington and Jermaine Pennant (both ankle) touch and go. Midfielder Salif Diao and striker Mamady Sidibe are the only confirmed absentees with knee injuries.

Wolves midfield duo Jamie O'Hara and Stephen Hunt are both out after undergoing groin surgery this week. Fellow midfielder Karl Henry could be recalled to the starting XI against his former club after playing an hour for the reserves in midweek following his recent hamstring problem.

Sunderland vs Tottenham

Sunderland manager Martin O'Neill is unlikely to make many changes for the visit of Tottenham. Defender Wayne Bridge is expected to return after being ineligible for last weekend's game against Manchester City under the terms of his loan agreement. The fixture is likely to be a game too soon for defender John O'Shea (calf), while Lee Cattermole faces a late fitness test on an ongoing knee problem.

Tottenham have no new injury concerns. Ledley King (knee) will have a late test to see if he is fit while Aaron Lennon (hamstring) may make his first start in a month after coming off the bench against Swansea last week. Long-term absentees Michael Dawson (ankle), Heurelho Gomes (knee), David Bentley (knee) and Tom Huddlestone (ankle) are out.

West Brom vs Blackburn

West Brom will again only have 19 fit players, including two goalkeepers, to choose from. Winger Jerome Thomas remains sidelined with a knee problem which kept him out of the defeat at Everton last weekend. Midfielders Zoltan Gera and James Morrison (both knee) and right-back Steven Reid (foot) are long-term absentees.

Blackburn manager Steve Kean has a full squad to choose from after French defender Gael Givet recovered from a hamstring injury. However, Kean is unlikely to make many changes from the team that lost at home to Manchester United and Givet is set to start on the bench.

Arsenal vs Man City

Arsenal are reporting no fresh injury problems ahead of their home game with Manchester City. Midfielders Abou Diaby and Francis Coquelin (both hamstring) are set to return to full training next week. Centre-back Per Mertesacker (ankle) and midfielder Jack Wilshere (ankle) remain sidelined.

Manchester City are hopeful striker Sergio Aguero (foot) will be fit for the trip to Arsenal. Defender Joleon Lescott (hip) is back in contention while midfielder Samir Nasri could also return against his former club after missing last week's draw with Sunderland after a family problem and slight injury. Striker Carlos Tevez is again likely to be among the substitutes.

Man Utd vs QPR

United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has promised to make changes his side begin a run of three games in a week against QPR. Midfielder Nani has recovered from his ankle injury and will return after a five-match absence. Brazilian midfielder Anderson (hamstring) and striker Michael Owen (thigh) are both sidelined.

DJ Campbell and Heidar Helguson will be included in QPR's squad. Both strikers have been sidelined for more than two months but top scorer Helguson returns from a groin injury and summer signing Campbell is back after a hamstring problem. Fellow front man Djibril Cisse continues to miss out through suspension, while Armand Traore and Fitz Hall are still out.
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[David Luiz]

Mancini: Manchester City need reinforcements
The Italian boss is looking to improve his squad for next season after struggling to maintain their blistering start and falling behind Manchester United in the title race

Arsenal's Robin van Persie: Manchester City's defeat against Sunderland showed they are beatable
The Dutch striker thinks Roberto Mancini's side have suffered in the title run-in because of the shock injury-time defeat at the Stadium of Light on New Year's Day

Sir Alex Ferguson: On-pitch arguments between team-mates are forbidden at Manchester United
The Old Trafford boss has said any kind of dissent or arguing between his players is not allowed and is glad he can rely on the experienced heads of Ferdinand, Giggs and Scholes

Road to nowhere: Tottenham must improve stuttering away form to realise Champions League dream
Spurs' quest for top-four spot is being undermined by their struggles on the road and Sunderland stalemate showed there is plenty of room for improvement away from White Hart Lane

Same old story - Dalglish referee complaints fail to hide Liverpool deficiencies after yet more dropped points at Anfield
With just one win in eight league games, 2012 has been highly unproductive for the Reds, but they only have themselves to blame after their latest poor result against Aston Villa

All Bran - Ivanovic makes his mark again & continues to prove an unlikely hero for Chelsea
The defender is in a rich vein of form at both ends of the pitch and has helped Roberto Di Matteo's side maintain their challenge on three fronts

Manchester City's trip to Arsenal is like a final, claims David Silva
The midfielder also admits his side were 'more efficient' at the start of the season and says it is not easy to continue title-winning form throughout the campaign

Bolton's South Korean winger Lee Chung-Yong close to return to full training
The South Korean winger has been on the sidelines since breaking his leg in pre-season but could still play a part this campaign as he recovers from the injury

Manchester City ready to make €8.5m summer swoop for Lille defender Lucas Digne
The Eastlands club view highly-rated French left-back as potential back-up to Gael Clichy next season as they prepare to listen to offers for Aleksandar Kolarov

Sir Alex Ferguson: Never-say-die attitude will win Manchester United the title
The 70-year-old believes that his side's ability to score late goals is down to their determination, while he wants a continuation of their current form to secure the championship

Parker: Champions League qualification still in Tottenham's hands
The 31-year-old is adamant his side must concentrate on picking up points in their final six Premier League games and not be distracted by the exploits of their rivals

David Luiz targeting more 'important games' after 50th Chelsea appearance
The 24-year-old Brazilian has helped the Blues to the Champions League and FA Cup semi-finals this term and hopes this run of success can continue

Hodgson: England vacancy has nothing to do with me
The West Brom manager shrugged off suggestions the national team job could affect his Baggies contract extension while Blackburn boss Steve Kean admitted relief at other results

Giroud eyes Premier League move: 'I was obsessed by England'
Despite his admission, the Ligue 1 top scorer wants to make a lasting impression in France by guiding Montpellier into the Champions League before he considers a move

Redknapp insists Tottenham still in 'box seat' for Champions League spot after Sunderland stalemate
Spurs boss admits to being disappointed with draw on Wearside but is still bullish about his club's chances of finishing the Premier League campaign on a high

Dalglish blames 'joke' refereeing for Liverpool's draw with Aston Villa
The Scot has pointed to a number of penalty appeals and the yellow card shown to striker Luis Suarez for simulation as examples of poor refereeing on show at Anfield on Saturday

Ferdinand: I will go into hiding if Manchester United lose to QPR
The 33-year-old comes up against his brother, Anton, when Mark Hughes' side make the trip to Old Trafford on Sunday and says he would not live down a defeat

Hughes: Manchester City will win the Premier League soon
The QPR boss is sure that the club's resources will see them win the title in the near future, while he is hopeful that his current club can cause an upset against United

Wenger 'convinced' Arsenal can secure third spot in the Premier League
The 62-year-old is hoping the Gunners can replicate the form which saw them win seven consecutive games prior to defeat to QPR last weekend at Loftus Road

Scholes: I struggled to adjust to life without playing
The 37-year-old has revealed that he could not enjoy his coaching role with the club whilst he still felt able to play and believes his side are in charge in the title race

Mancini: Manchester City can still win the Premier League
The former Inter boss is hoping for a 'maximum' return from his side's run-in, but admitted they will need to play well to gain three points from Arsenal on Sunday

Coyle: Bolton want to stay in the Premier League for Muamba
Trotters boss reveals that his midfielder's recovery from a cardiac arrest has given his players a huge lift as they battle to avoid relegation to the Championship

Tottenham boss Redknapp: Adebayor isn't a problem, but Balotelli is
The favourite for the England hotseat believes that the Italian's off-field antics present dilemmas for City boss Roberto Mancini and is glad that his own striker is well-behaved

Sir Alex assures Manchester United fans Vidic will return for next season
The Serbian has been sidelined with knee ligament damage since the Red Devils' embarrassing Champions League exit at the hands of Basel, but is scheduled to be fit for August

AC Milan still interested in Tevez as replacement for Pato - report
Vice-president Adriano Galliani reportedly wants to see a trident of Boateng, Ibrahimovic and the Manchester City attacker to spearhead the Rossoneri for the coming years

Chelsea 'bitterly disappointed' as they lose battle to change FA Cup kick-off time
The semi-final with Tottenham will kick off at 6pm despite the club pleading with the Football Association to change it on the grounds of safety and in the event of a late finish

Wenger wants to stop Manchester City's poaching from Arsenal
Gunners boss has lost four players in recent summers to the Eastlands club, who have largely benefited, but the Frenchman refuses to entertain selling a fifth in Robin van Persie

 

[David Luiz]

Wenger backs RVP for Player of the Year
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has backed captain Robin van Persie to win this season's PFA Player of the Year.

Eriksen turns down Chelsea, United, City
Despite being linked to a host of Premier League clubs, Ajax's Christian Eriksen is content to stay with the Dutch side.

Ferguson hails Man United defence
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson believes having a strong defensive core has been extremely helpful in their Premier League title quest.

Rodgers: Swansea must not "fizzle out"
Swansea manager Brendan Rodgers believes it is vital his side do not let an encouraging maiden Premier League campaign "fizzle out".

Wenger misses title race mind games
Arsene Wenger is not sure whether mind games seep through to the dressing room - but the Arsenal manager admits he would 'love it' to be involved.

Connor allays sack fears
Manager Terry Connor is confident he will remain in charge of Wolves until the end of the season despite their relegation fears deepening with a 2-1 defeat at Stoke.

Di Matteo: We were lucky to beat Wigan
Chelsea caretaker manager Roberto Di Matteo felt that Wigan were unlucky to not get a result after harsh decisions gave the Blues a 2-1 win at Stamford Bridge.

Dalglish rage at refereeing display
Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish was angered by referee Michael Oliver's decision-making in their 1-1 draw at home to Aston Villa.

Hodgson happy to stay with Baggies
West Brom head coach Roy Hodgson expects to start talks over a new contract after the 3-0 home win over Blackburn virtually guaranteed Barclays Premier League survival.

Coyle rues missed chance
Bolton boss Owen Coyle felt his side blew an opportunity to give themselves vital breathing space in their relegation battle.

Lambert: Howsen is like Iniesta
Norwich manager Paul Lambert likened Jonny Howson to Barcelona maestro Andres Iniesta after watching the Canaries midfielder inspire his new team to a vital draw over Everton at Carrow Road.​

 

[David Luiz]

Dempsey in no rush to decide Fulham future
Manager Martin Jol hopes the "indispensable" midfielder will sign a new deal, but the American is keen to wait until the summer before he has to deal with contract issues

Rodney Marsh: Balotelli has the brains of a rocking horse and has let Manchester City down
Roberto Mancini's side fell short against Arsenal as the Italian striker saw red, and the former player believes the 21-year-old is becoming a big problem for the club

Agent confident Balotelli will not leave Manchester City
Roberto Mancini's side are now eight points adrift of rivals United following their 1-0 loss to Arsenal in a match that left the striker's future uncertain after his sending off

Arsenal match-winner Arteta thrilled with ‘important’ win over Manchester City
The former Everton midfielder scored from 25 yards out for the Gunners with three minutes remaining on the clock to leave the City's title hopes in tatters

Kompany: Manchester City will be a success
On a frustrating day for Roberto Mancini's side after defeat to Arsenal at the Emirates, the captain believes the club will be a force to be reckoned with in the future

Wenger insists Mario Balotelli deserved red card in win over Manchester City
The Italian striker escaped punishment for his tackle on Alex Song in the first half of their victory, but was eventually sent off for a second bookable offence late in the game

Mancini '100 per cent' sure he is the man to deliver title to Manchester City
The Italian saw his side slump to a 1-0 defeat against Arsenal at the Emirates as Manchester United opened up an eight-point advantage at the top of the Premier League

Tears, tantrums and missed opportunities: City and Balotelli blow up as title dream goes out with a whimper
With Roberto Mancini's side now eight points behind United in the title race following defeat to Arsenal, their bid for league success has crumbled under numerous pressures

Manchester City will 'probably' try to sell Balotelli this summer, admits Mancini
Italian boss finally loses patience with 21-year-old striker following sending off against Arsenal in 1-0 defeat and feels striker may 'lose talent' if his attitude doesn't change

Mark Hughes: Managers have lost faith in referees
Rangers fell to a 2-0 defeat at Old Trafford on Sunday following a controversial penalty and red card shown to Shaun Derry, and their boss was incensed by the decision

Sir Alex Ferguson: Referee had no choice but to dismiss Derry
The Manchester United boss insists the QPR midfielder had to be shown a straight red card after bringing down Red Devils winger Ashley Young in the penalty area

Rio Ferdinand thinks experience will help Manchester United win 20th title
The 33-year-old was disappointed his side did not score more goals agianst 10-man QPR, but did heap the praise on Scholes for his influential return to the Red Devils

Andy Carroll set for Liverpool exit - report
The 23-year-old Geordie has had a difficult time on Merseyside and after a public spat with manager Kenny Dalglish the Reds are reportedly keen to offload him

Liverpool start talks with Fiorentina over Juan Manuel Vargas - report
The Anfield club are said to be thrashing out a deal with the Serie A side which would see them secure the services of the 28-year-old Peruvian left-winger

Wilshere in fresh injury blow - report
The Arsenal man has suffered several setbacks to his recovery this season and it is believed a knee problem is now delaying his comeback

Arsenal's Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain amazed by meteoric rise
The Gunners' 18-year-old winger has revealed that he is surprised at the speed with which his career has moved, from playing against Hartlepool to contetion for an England call-up

Arsenal manager Wenger: I miss title race mind-games
The Gunners boss has revealed that he would have liked to have been involved in the psychological warfare at the top of the Premier League, even though it is overhyped by press

 

[David Luiz]

Mancini '100 per cent' sure he is the man to deliver title to Manchester City

The Italian saw his side slump to a 1-0 defeat against Arsenal at the Emirates as Manchester United opened up an eight-point advantage at the top of the Premier League

Apr 8, 2012 8:50:00 PM

By Jonathan Birchall at Emirates Stadium

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A defiant Roberto Mancini has insisted that he is the right man to deliver the Premier League crown to Manchester City despite seeing his side effectively drop out of the title race with a 1-0 loss to Arsenal.

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A late Mikel Arteta strike consigned the Etihad Stadium outfit to a defeat at the Emirates to follow Manchester United's win at home to QPR, leaving the gap at the top at eight points in favour of Sir Alex Ferguson's champions.

However, although admitting that securing the club's first top division title since 1968 will now prove "difficult", Mancini is adamant that he can deliver for the club. When asked whether he is the man to bring the title to City, he replied: "Sure. One hundred per cent."

He continued: "After today the title is more difficult but you can play to win always and see at the end what happens.

"We have 15 points more than last year and we have done a fantastic season. I won one title [with Inter] when we were five points behind, five games from the end – this is football so we will see. Everything can happen but clearly we need to start to win."I am disappointed. Today we lost and didn’t do a good performance and for this I am disappointed but from tomorrow I will think about the next game."

Mancini was quick to point out the improvement made at City under his tenure, claiming that the club is in a far better position than when he replaced Mark Hughes as manager in December 2009 but admitting that his side need to improve.

"When I arrived at Manchester City we were in eighth or seventh then after six months we were fighting for the Champions League and we lost against Tottenham one game to the end," he said. "A year later we were third position and we won the FA Cup and today we are 15 points more [than at this point last season].

"When you start a project it is important you improve. We were there [top of the table] for 28 games but we need to improve. We need more experience and we need to change something."

Despite refusing to concede defeat in the title race, Mancini praised Manchester United for their recent form and acknowledged that the club's experience of title chases in recent years is likely to play into their hands over the final weeks of the season.

"Manchester United have won 11 games and had one draw, they have done some incredible winning but in football it can change," he said. "They have more experience than us so probably it’s difficult."

 

[David Luiz]

Monday 9th April 2012

Schmeichel: Balotelli no Cantona

When Manchester United legend Peter Schmeichel opens his mouth to talk about football, you listen.

By Marcus Chhan

Not because his 6 foot 4 inch Danish frame could easily pick you up and pummel you, but because you know the words are coming from a guy who has won everything the European game has to offer - including the European Championship with Denmark in 1992. And so when he takes exception to Manchester City bad boy Mario Balotelli being compared to his controversial ex-United team-mate Eric Cantona, your ears prick up.

"I think it is unfair for Cantona to be likened to Balotelli because Cantona is a different person and it was a different time and he actually changed the Premier League to the direction it is [heading in] now," Schmeichel told reporters at the Courts Megastore in Singapore on Sunday afternoon.

Schmeichel was actually speaking about Balotelli before Sunday's double header in the Premier League which saw the Italian grab all the headlines again for the wrong reason as Manchester United went eight points clear in the title race ahead of Manchester City at the end of play. And in almost prophetic form, Schmeichel's words have never been more relevant than now.

"I know he [Cantona] had the incident at Selhurst Park [where he kicked an abusive fan]. Cantona was made controversial [by the media] but wasn't controversial. Balotelli probably is controversial," Schmeichel said. "Cantona really cared; he was passionate about football, passionate about Manchester United. He met someone in Sir Alex who actually respected him and gave him a chance and gave him an opportunity to fulfil the potential that he had.

"A lot of the controversial athletes in the Premier League now probably aren't like that - if you offered them more money to go somewhere else they would probably take it. Cantona wasn't like that all. He would never do that to Manchester United." Football fans in Asia are waking up this Monday morning trying to digest (some will be having more luck at this than others) the news that Balotelli could have played his last game for City following his red card in the club's 1-0 loss to Arsenal.

After the game, a crestfallen City boss Roberto Mancini conceded that Balotelli's antics - including arguing with a team-mate over free-kick responsibilities in last month's 3-3 draw with Sunderland - had caused divisions within his dressing room. It was a sad sight to see Mancini lose hope on the 21-year-old who he has tried to nurture into a world class player since he was 17.

So while Cantona has widely been credited as the catalyst for United's Premier League success story, Schmeichel won't have been surprised one bit to find out that Balotelli's behaviour has had the opposite effect for City. "Of course it can. I don't know Mario Balotelli at all. As with anyone else I laughed at the stories of him driving around Manchester handing out money. All that, it is ok for football to have those sorts of stories coming out but there are also other stories [coming out] which are not so great," Schmeichel said.

"I think we saw that on the pitch the other day [when he argued with a team-mate in the game against Sunderland]. Of course you can turn it into something positive that he wants to take responsibility [for the free-kick] but you don't really want to see that [arguments between team-mates] on the pitch."

Balotelli will serve a ban of at least three matches after his sending off in Sunday's 1-0 defeat at the Emirates Stadium although it remains to be seen whether the FA may wish to take further action on the player for a knee-high challenge on Alex Song that went unpunished.
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[DerMannschaft]

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Arsenal 1 Manchester City 0


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Manchester United 2 Queens Park Rangers 0

 

[David Luiz]

The impossible hat-trick: Chelsea's squad lacks the depth and quality to wage war on three fronts
Interim Chelsea boss Roberto Di Matteo has difficult balancing act on his hands after lacklustre display against Fulham leaves his side lagging behind in hunt for fourth place

Vermaelen: Arteta has been really important for Arsenal
The Belgium international has hailed the form of his team-mate and stated how vital the Spaniard has been in the dressing room since his summer move from Everton

Jol: Fulham deserved to beat Chelsea
The Dutchman believes his team should have won an entertaining west London derby and admitted he was confused at the award of a penalty against his side late in the first half

Di Matteo: Champions League chase will go down to last game
The Blues bid to secure a Premier League top-four finish took a hit with a 1-1 draw at Craven Cottage on Monday evening but the Italian is refusing to throw in the towel yet

Wenger delighted with Arsenal turnaround: 'We were disturbed at the start of the season'
The Gunners closed the gap to second-placed Manchester City with a 1-0 victory over Roberto Mancini's side on Sunday and the Frenchman hailed his side following the win

Krul: Newcastle are putting pressure on the top teams
The Dutch goalkeeper believes the Magpies can secure Champions League football next season but insists they must focus solely on the next game to maintain their push

Lambert: Tottenham win my best as Norwich boss
Goals in either half from Anthony Pilkington and Elliott Bennett gave the Canaries a 2-1 win against Spurs, who Lambert believes can still claim a Champions League place

Balotelli apologises to Prandelli and Mancini
The enigmatic 21-year-old forward's future with both the Azzurri and his club side are now the subject of much debate in light of his latest misdemeanour

Dalglish: Liverpool will be focused against Blackburn
A dreadful run of nine points from their last 13 league games has cost The Reds their Champions League ambitions but manager insists FA Cup semi-final will not be a distraction

Blackburn manager Kean hoping to face an unfocused Liverpool
The Rovers boss was disappointed with his sides poor display at the Hawthorns, but is hoping for a turn around against Kenny Dalglish's side, who may have their eye elsewhere.

Benayoun: Arsenal's win over Manchester City was vital
Israeli also predicts a tough game against Wolves on Wednesday but is confident that Arsene Wenger's men can claim victory at Molineux

Prandelli: Balotelli did not breach my code of ethics
The 54-year-old has stated that he will 'calmly evaluate' whether the striker belongs in his squad for Euro 2012 following the Italian's red card against the Gunners

Chelsea defender Ivanovic could face FA charge
The opening goal on Saturday wasn't the only moment of controversy involving the Serbian, with an off-the-ball incident meaning he could potentially face a three-match ban

Szczesny: Arsenal will finish third & could even catch Manchester City
The Poland international feels that the Blues' 1-0 loss at the Emirates will demoralise them and admits that he was proud of his clean sheet and the team's defensive performance

Dalglish hails Liverpool stand-in goalkeeper Doni
Scot praises the performances of youngsters Jon Flanagan, Jonjo Shelvey and Jordan Henderson in draw with Aston Villa and admits it's hard for them to play in an out-of-form team

'Chelsea must play their best side against Tottenham and Barcelona' - David Luiz
The Brazilian international believes the Blues' players must push hard until the end of the season if they want success despite congested schedule over the Easter period

Bolton's Muamba to leave hospital - report
The Trotters midfielder could leave London hospital by the end of the week and return north for the first time since suffering a cardiac arrest against Tottenham

Agger insists Liverpool are not distracted by FA Cup
The Denmark international claims there is always motivation at Anfield despite losing five of their last six matches in his absence due to injury after their League Cup win

Parker bemoans Tottenham's 'ridiculous' Easter schedule
The England international believes fixture list is too congested at this time of year and feels race for the Champions League places will go to the wire

Manchester City deny Balotelli dressing-room bust-up following Arsenal defeat
Spokesman dismisses suggestions of an altercation after loss to the Gunners all but ended City's title hopes with reported brawl not the first accusation of in-fighting

Ashley Cole could miss crucial Chelsea games - report
The Blues maybe without the England international for FA Cup semi-final clash against Tottenham on Sunday as well as Champions League match with Barcelona

Scholes provides midfield majesty to tee up 20th title for Manchester United
The 37-year-old starred and scored as Sir Alex Ferguson's side pulled eight points clear of Manchester City on Sunday with a 2-0 win over QPR at Old Trafford

Staying Power: Arsenal’s win over Manchester City may convince Van Persie the grass is not always greener on the other side
The Dutchman is the latest Gunners talent to be looked at by the big-spenders, but the victory could mean the striker stays put at the Emirates Stadium

David Luiz: Gary Neville comments were disrespectful
The Chelsea defender is pleased with his recent form and believes the former Manchester United skipper was wrong to criticise him so harshly earlier in the campaign

 

[David Luiz]

Redknapp: Tottenham would settle for finishing fourth

The Englishman insisted that catching third-placed Arsenal is not as important as securing Champions League football following Spurs' 2-1 defeat to Norwich at White Hart Lane

Apr 9, 2012 8:35:00 PM

By Jay Jaffa at White Hart Lane

Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp says he would settle for fourth place in the Premier League following his side's 2-1 loss at home to Norwich.

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Spurs are now level on points with Newcastle and have a three-point advantage over Chelsea, who face Fulham later on Monday.

And Redknapp admitted that finishing above third-placed Arsenal now may prove difficult with only five games remaining.

"It's going to be close but there are still five games to go. If Chelsea win tonight, we're all square with all three of us [Tottenham, Newcastle and Chelsea] on equal points," he told reporters.

"We'll settle for finishing fourth and Champions League football is the key. Finishing above Arsenal will be tough now. Chelsea have to play Arsenal, Newcastle have to play Chelsea. Who knows?"

The Englishman also expressed disappointment with his team's peformance saying that it was perhaps the formation which cost them points.

He continued: "We played 4-4-2 today but it leaves us a little bit open. It's an attacking system but I felt we've looked stronger recently with 4-3-3. It was disappointing the way we played."

However the 65-year-old didn't begrudge Norwich the victory and was full of praise for Paul Lambert and his team.

He said: "They played well. They looked sharp, lively and decent. They played excellently at Fulham and looked a good team. Paul's done a great job with them.

"We were flat for some reason. Grant Holt bullied us a bit. First quarter of an hour every ball up to the front troubled us.

"Every time they played a forward ball we couldn't handle them. They worked their socks off."

Despite dropping 5 points in two days, Redknapp still believes Tottenham can get back to winning ways and hang on to the final Champions League place.

He added: "There's no two games the same. Chelsea were lucky to beat Wigan on the weekend, Arsenal got beat the week before at QPR.

"But every game is different, we beat Swansea and played well and dominated Sunderland on Saturday where we played well. Today was a setback. It's all to play for still."

 

[David Luiz]

Funny, intelligent & a real gentleman': The real Mario Balotelli?

Jenny Thompson, of Wayne Rooney and, more recently, Super Mario 'fame', has spoken of her relationship with the Italian striker, who courted controversy again on Sunday

Apr 9, 2012 4:00:00 PM

Yes, this is the woman known only for preying on Wayne Rooney and Mario Balotelli. And yes, she has now told the world about Super Mario.

To be fair, given the headlines that he's currently generating, Jenny Thompson will seem like a blessing. In quotes supplied to The Sun she said:

"Wayne may be the better footballer but when it comes to performance off the pitch Mario beats him in every way."

Take that Wayne. You may win the Premier League but you won't beat Ma ... erm.

"You'd think most blokes wouldn't want to sleep with the same woman one of their mates or colleagues had but to be honest Mario seemed to love the fact I'd slept with Wayne."

Yes, you would think that, wouldn't you? Consider Extra Time of the opinion that we wouldn't go anywhere that Rooney has been first. And you can quote us on that.

So, the top and bottom of it is; Balotelli bedded this woman and she shamelessly told all to pocket some cash for herself. What a horrible character she seems.

We're not alone in thinking that either: apparently WAGs in the north of England have united to run her out of town, such is her reputation for being a homewrecker.

A spokesperson for the team of WAGs told the Daily Star: "All the partners of players at clubs in the North-West have teamed up to tip off each other if they see or hear she’s in a club where their men might be going to.

"Once the alert has gone out, the WAGs will make sure their man doesn’t go to the club or bar where Jenny is, or they get someone to keep a close eye on their man and make sure he doesn’t get caught up in her arms."

Take that, Thompson!

Just to keep it interesting, this is who Mario cheated on. GAH! Oh Mario!

 

[David Luiz]

Kuyt keen on Feyenoord return - report
The striker, who left the Rotterdam club in 2006, has found first-team action hard to come by under Kenny Dalglish and is reportedly open to a move back to Netherlands

Scholes to accept Sir Alex Ferguson's offer of another season at Manchester United - report
The veteran midfielder has been in impressive form since coming out of retirement back in January and is reportedly ready to commit to the 2012-13 campaign

Nasri: City will still win the title before Arsenal
The former Gunner insists that Roberto Mancini's side can win the Premier League ahead of the Frenchman's former club, despite the disappointing 1-0 loss at the Emirates

Milner admits Manchester City need more time to 'gel as a team'
After the defeat to Arsenal left them trailing United by eight points, the England midfielder concedes money alone will not bring them the Premier League title

Arsenal can compete with everybody next season, says Vermaelen
The Gunners erased the pain of defeat to QPR with a dominant display against Manchester City, but the Belgian defender wants more consistency in the next campaign

 

[David Luiz]

Balotelli faces no further action for challenge on Arsenal's Alex Song
The controversial Italian escapes a potential nine-game ban following his horror tackle on the Cameroonian in the first half of his side's 1-0 defeat at the Emirates on Sunday

Chelsea's Ivanovic charged with violent conduct for clash with Wigan's Maloney
The Blues have a chance to appeal the charge, but face the prospect of having to do without their influential defender for three crucial games against Spurs, Arsenal and QPR

Football Association rejects Derry appeal over red card against Manchester United
The midfielder will miss the Hoops' clash against Swansea after the FA refuse to rescind his dismissal following an early collision with Ashley Young inside the penalty box

Carrick hails ‘amazing’ Scholes impact at Manchester United
The 30-year-old has spoken of the effect his team-mate has had on United's title push since his dramatic decision to come out of retirement and believes he should carry on playing

Lampard: Chelsea missed a big opportunity with draw at Fulham
The Blues midfielder says that the stalemate at Craven Cottage felt like a loss after Clint Dempsey's late equaliser and admits that they should have closed the gap on Tottenham

'Liverpool must forget bad decisions,' says Dalglish
The Anfield boss has warned his players not to get caught up in conspiracy theories, despite believing that a number of decisions have gone against the Reds in recent weeks

Assistant referee Dave Bryan dropped following mistakes made during Wigan's defeat to Chelsea
The linesman failed to flag for offside for both of the Blues' goals on Saturday with the PGMO moving to axe him from the officials' roster for Liverpool's trip to Blackburn

Silva primed for return as Mancini fights for his Manchester City future
The Spaniard, along with Dzeko and Aguero, is set to start against West Brom while Tevez is also in line for half-an-hour as the Blues boss looks to consolidate his position

Carlos Vela: I am not thinking about Arsenal
The Mexican striker is enjoying his loan spell with the Basque outfit and has admitted that he is not thinking about returning to the Emirates Stadium this summer

 

[David Luiz]

Steven Gerrard makes surprise appearance at The Kazimier in Liverpool

The bar has been described as the city's "finest night out" and hosted its 'Resurrection Festival' on the night that the Reds captain showed up to shock its patrons

Apr 10, 2012 2:55:00 PM

In the ironic story of the day, Steven Gerrard has turned up at the 'Resurrection Festival' at The Kazimier in Liverpool - described as the city's finest night out.

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As the Reds continue to flounder in the Premier League, their captain headed to The Kazimier for a spot of inspiration ahead of their trip to Ewood Park tonight.

Of course, their season is far from a lost cause - they've won the League Cup, securing European football for next year in the process. An FA Cup semi-final with city rivals Everton awaits this weekend.

But it is the clash with Blackburn where fans will be hoping to see a resemblance to the resurrection as Liverpool have just nine points from their last 13 league games.

If you're wondering what else The Kazimier offers - absinthe cocktails. Oh yes, if you want to forget everything that happened in the previous 24 hours, head to the bar!