Mancini wants more from AJ,,,,,

Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini is demanding more from Adam Johnson despite the winger's key role in the Carling Cup win at Wolves.Johnson scored the equaliser and created the second goal for Samir Nasri as City booked their place in the quarter-finals with five goals in a 27 minute spell.

But Mancini believes the former Middlesbrough player can still do better and was critical of his role in Wolves' second from Jamie O'Hara. He said: "Sometimes he thinks, 'Okay, in this game I scored one goal, I did an assist, that is enough.' "I think Adam, because he is young, can improve a lot. He needs to think in a different way. Mancini laughed off suggestions that unused substitute Mario Balotelli had been involved in a row with a member of his coaching staff after the game. When asked about a possible incident, Mancini only said: "Who Mario? No, no (laughs). For a fire on the bench!" The media were not permitted to ask questions about striker Carlos Tevez who has been fined four weeks wages by City. Edin Dzeko's brace and an own goal from Dorus de Vries completed City's haul with Nenad Milijas and Jamie O'Hara replying for Wolves whose manager Mick McCarthy took consolation from their performance.

UEFA delay details on Rooney ban,,,,

UEFA have delayed giving the FA their written reasons behind England striker Wayne Rooney's three-match ban "for another week at a minimum".The European governing body had been expected to provide the FA with the reasoned decisions for the ban - imposed on the England striker for kicking Miodrag Dzudovoic during the 2-2 draw with Montenegro - by Thursday.

The FA will make a decision based on the full reasons but it would be a surprise if there is no appeal, given that a three-match international ban would rule the Manchester United player out of all of England's group matches at the Euro 2012 finals. National team coach Capello last week dropped a clear hint that Rooney will be going to next summer's tournament regardless. The Italian had not spoken about Rooney since the striker was handed the ban but the widespread view amongst professionals is that Rooney should go.

United squad in pain,,,,

Manchester United assistant Mike Phelan admits the squad are hurting following their derby-day humiliation - but insists they will bounce back.The Red Devils suffered their heaviest home defeat since 1955 on Sunday as their near neighbours romped to a stunning 6-1 win. The victory puts Roberto Mancini's men five points clear at the top of the table and emphasises that they a real threat to United in the title race. Phelan admits the defeat was hard to take but has urged perspective given there is still a long way to go in the season. "You have to take the hurt on board and deal with it," he told the Manchester Evening News. "You find whether you have the success in you to go again.

Comparisons have been drawn between Sunday and a 5-1 defeat United suffered at the hands of City at Maine Road in 1989 - a game that Phelan played in. The club responded to that mauling by going on to win the FA Cup the following May and Phelan expects a similar response this time. "I have never forgotten the hurt of the 5-1 at Maine Road. But you react. You pull together. We knew we were a good group of players as this group knows it is a good group of players," added the 49-year-old. "Something has happened that we didn't think could happen, as it did in '89, but now it has happened it is a question of do you pull together or do you let it affect you? "It wasn't all bad. From a coaching point of view some of the game was okay but others we lost focus. That could be because it is a new group and everything has been going well. You reflect on that and you see what is in the players' lockers and the club's locker and how we move forward. We will. These things have happened before. "We look at it, analyse it, try not to dwell too much on it and move on. It makes you reflect on what you have got, what you thought you had but you haven't. "Sometimes you can get a little bit, not carried away, but everything is good because you are playing well, you are scoring goals and creating things, everyone is patting you on the back then you get a reducer. That is good when it happens. Sometimes a hard lesson learnt is a good lesson to build from."

No screw loose with Mario

Goalkeeper Joe Hart admits life can be frustrating with Mario Balotelli but is convinced the Manchester City ace now has his head "screwed on".Balotelli's remarkable propensity to create headlines on and off the pitch continued over the weekend after a domestic firework incident was followed by a devastating two-goal display in a 6-1 thrashing of Manchester United.

The fire service were called to Balotelli's Cheshire home in the early hours of Saturday morning after a firework set off from inside the bathroom started a blaze. The Italian was forced to decamp to a hotel but the incident barely seemed to have ruffled him as he revealed a T-shirt saying 'Why Always Me?' after his first goal in Sunday's rout at Old Trafford. The 21-year-old rarely seems far from controversy despite earning praise for greater on-field maturity of late but, after six goals in five games, Hart is growing to love him.

Hart told City TV: "I think we were all a bit unsure last season, outside and inside, what he was about. "I think he has grown as a person and accepted who and what he is in this team. He is someone we look to. "All the hype that comes with Mario is standard procedure.

Sergio Aguero hit the third and, after a Darren Fletcher consolation, City rubbed salt into United's wounds by condemning them to their heaviest derby defeat since 1926. Edin Dzeko struck twice in the closing moments either side of a David Silva strike as City finished the job in ruthless fashion. England keeper Hart said: "It was as good as it looked. The fans felt amazing, the lads felt amazing. There was a real feel-good vibe about it. "It's magnificent football we've been playing all year. We have got top-quality players and we have proved that. "United were bleeding when they had a man sent off and we went in for the kill." Hart has played down reports that United fans allegedly made death threats against him during the match.

Jol denies bullyboy claims,,,,

Martin Jol has denied he is a bullyboy manager after reports of fierce rows with his players including Bobby Zamora.The Fulham boss is alleged to have had a furious training ground bust-up with the striker before the Europa League trip to Odense earlier this month.

Jol, who was a tough player in his prime, has been anxious to dismiss reports the pair clashed before Zamora stormed out. "I tell the truth. I am not a bully boy. It is not my style. I just want to win," he told Daily Star Sunday. "I am not someone who shouts. "The only thing I can do is exclude players, drop them if they don't do what I want for the team. I don't fine them or shout at them. This can be a strength, this can be a weakness." "I did not have a row with Zamora. Never. 

Mancini: We are closing the gap,,,,

Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini believes his side have gained considerable ground on rivals Manchester United this season.The Italian said earlier in the campaign that he considered the champions to be "two or three yards" ahead of his team.City have been in outstanding form this term and head into Sunday's eagerly-anticipated Manchester derby at Old Trafford two points ahead of United as Premier League leaders. But, despite how the table reads, Mancini stills sees United as the benchmark and he feels City are catching them up. 

Mancini said: "Now it is one yard! United are over City, one yard. "In these two months I think we worked very well and we reduced the gap. "They are a team that every year win something - the Barclays Premier League, Champions League or FA Cup. "I think winning one thing every year is normal (for them)." City were indifferent against Villarreal in midweek but battled through to snatch their first Champions League win with a stoppage-time goal. Such wins have almost become a hallmark of United's success over the years and Mancini reckons this is a trait his players need to learn. The Italian added: "United have one thing we don't have yet. "I saw United's game against Norwich. Norwich had chances but United are strong enough that if they don't play very well, they win the game. This for a top team is important." City have dropped just two points in the Premier League and scored 27 goals in their eight games. Mancini expects his team to maintain a title challenge throughout the campaign but admits they will have to work hard to keep pace with their rivals.

Dalglish counts on FSG support,,,,,,

Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish is confident he will continue to be backed by FSG in the transfer market should he need to strengthen in January.The Americans have already spent around £70million since their purchase of the club just over a year ago.And Dalglish is confident Fenway Sports Group will carry on providing funds in the next window should it be necessary.

"We are happy about the strength of the squad we have got," said the Scot. "The more players I have to choose from the more difficult my job is but the better it is for everyone. "We have a fit squad at the moment but I am sure that won't last too long. "There is a window coming up in January and if we feel the need to use it I am sure we will get full support (from the owners)." The Reds host Norwich on Saturday evening looking to extend their unbeaten home record this season. Paul Lambert's side returned to the top flight this season and have made a decent start. 

Dalglish anticipates his team, who drew 1-1 with Manchester United at home last weekend, will be in for another tough test. "I don't know what other people expect but I know what we do," said the Reds boss. "We expect as difficult a game against Norwich as Manchester United gave us last week.

Fergie relishing City challenge,,,,

Sir Alex Ferguson believes Manchester United's record in the second half of seasons means they can afford to lose to Manchester City on Sunday.The Red Devils find themselves in the strange position of being behind their local rivals heading into the first all-Manchester showdown of the Premier League season.

If the unbeaten Blues manage to register only their second Old Trafford success in 37 years, it will put them five points clear of United. However, whilst Ferguson is not actively embracing thoughts of defeat, he knows from past experience how his squad comes good over the final few months, when the battle for honours on all fronts is intensifying. "This game could be significant at the end of the season," said the United boss. "It is a six-pointer. It will make a difference to whichever team wins it. "But it is early doors and you can recover. There is no doubt about that. "With our record in the second half of the season, you hope that we will be better."

"He has his job to do like everyone else," said the Scot. "We have all got difficult jobs picking teams. Mine is exactly the same. I am pondering a couple of positions myself." Since then, City have dropped just two points, when they surrendered a two-goal lead at Fulham, and Ferguson accepts the Blues are in fine form. "It is an exciting prospect," he said. "City have done fantastically well and if they had not thrown a two-goal lead away at Fulham they would have been top of the league with a 100 per cent record.

Kenny gives support to Suarez,,,,,

Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish has issued a robust defence of Luis Suarez against allegations of racism and diving against Manchester United.Patrice Evra claimed in an interview with Canal Plus after Saturday's draw at Anfield that Suarez had verbally abused him on a number of occasions during the game.

Suarez immediately refuted the allegations, which the Football Association are looking into. Dalglish, wearing a badge promoting anti-racism organisation Kick It Out's One Game, One Community campaign - of which Liverpool's home game against Norwich is part, has fully backed his player. He also rejected suggestions by United counterpart Sir Alex Ferguson, made after the game, that the Uruguay international was a diver.

"The only thing I will say - and then it is put to bed - is that the football club and everyone at the football club is totally and utterly fully behind Luis Suarez," said the Scot. "There was an allegation after the game about him diving all over the place and there was an allegation from Patrice Evra. "Obviously the two things are emotive but we support the wee man on both things. "At the start of the week the club made their position known and apart from what I have said we won't be adding to it. "We are fully looking forward to a complete, transparent report from the FA and we will co-operate 100%." So far there appears to be little progress on the matter, with the FA reportedly due to interview Evra on Thursday. The France international is likely to have to provide evidence in the form of witnesses as he did not raise the allegations with referee Andre Marriner at the time.

Lindegaard: Derby no decider,,,,

Manchester United keeper Anders Lindegaard claims it is far too early to build Sunday's derby clash with Manchester City into a title decider.With both clubs blazing a trail at the top of the Premier League, this weekend's fixture at Old Trafford has been eagerly anticipated for weeks.

And as Champions League commitments are now out of the way, the red and blue halves of a divided city can give their full attention to one of the most important derby encounters for a long time. Yet that statement glosses over the fact that City and United have met in major cup semi-finals in each of the last two years, which were hardly insignificant. "There is no doubt it is going to be a tight race this year." Not that he expects the hype to extend to United's Carrington training ground. Although his own experiences were at a much lower level in Denmark and Norway, the thing which struck Lindegaard when he joined from Aalesunds in January was the focus Ferguson and his staff devote to every game. So, if it were not for the dressing room chatter and information gleaned from the media, no-one would actually know City were coming to town.

"I prepare the same, whether it is a training game in the United States or a Champions League game in Romania or Portugal. That is part of the job of being a goalkeeper. "One of the important steps to success is always to be focused and concentrated." United may not find out until next week what the final punishment for Nemanja Vidic's red card will be. Just as was the case with Wayne Rooney and England, the governing body has discretionary powers.

Barry buoyed by City success,,,,,

Gareth Barry says the win over Villarreal has given Manchester City a "massive confidence booster" ahead of Sunday's Manchester derby.City will now cross town to face arch rivals Manchester United buoyed by their status as Premier League leaders and after winning in Europe's elite club competition for the first time.

Roberto Mancini's men were not at their most potent against the Spanish side at the Etihad Stadium but completed their comeback from a goal down by snatching a 2-1 win with a stoppage-time Sergio Aguero winner.Barry was involved in another controversial City substitution - three weeks after the infamous Carlos Tevez incident in Munich - as he was sent on for Adam Johnson after just 40 minutes. Johnson was unhappy with Mancini's tactical decision and shook his head as he left the field but, just three minutes later, Barry was involved in the build-up to the equaliser. England midfielder Barry, 30, said: "It was a surprise but I was warming up for a while in the first half so I knew the manager was maybe thinking of making a change. "I went on and it was important we scored just before half-time."

Capello issues Rooney hint,,,,

England coach Fabio Capello has dropped a clear hint that Wayne Rooney will be going to next summer's European Championship.Capello has not spoken about Rooney since the Manchester United striker was handed a three-match ban by UEFA for his red card in Montenegro earlier this month.

Although it is still to be decided whether the Football Association will launch an appeal against the suspension, as it presently stands, Rooney will be ruled out of the entire group stage of the competition in Poland and Ukraine. "You need this kind of player, plus Rooney, I hope." Ferdinand might also be pleased to receive a name check after he was left out of the squad for the final Euro 2012 qualifier against Montenegro.But Rooney, more than any other player, has the ability to lift England onto the next level and hit the goal trail last night with two penalties in United's Champions League defeat of Otelul Galati, which took his tally for the season onto 11. Phil Jones and Chris Smalling were two of Rooney's team-mates last night, part of a group of English youngsters who have emerged over the past few months to give fresh hope for the future. 

"In the friendly games before we went to South Africa, we won but did not play well, like the games we played to qualify. "The players were not so fast, not so good. We need to change something at the end of the season to prepare for the Euros.

Gunners gaffer deals Verm in,,,,,

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has been boosted by the news that classy defender Thomas Vermaelen has signed a new long-term contract.The 25-year-old Belgian international joined Arsenal in 2009 from Ajax and he emerged as one of the Premier League's top defenders.

Last year injury meant he only played a handful of games, but he is now on the road to recovery and is very much part of Arsenal's long-term future. "We are absolutely delighted that Thomas has signed a new long-term contract," said Wenger. "Our plan is always to sign top quality players and with Thomas extending his contract, we have done just that. "Thomas is a special player, who has always made a huge contribution on the pitch and we are looking forward to him being a part of our future at Arsenal Football Club. "Arsenal is a fantastic club. We have great supporters, we're doing well financially and we are playing with some quality young players now and they will develop, which is very good for the future."

Famous Five: Nearly Amazing Goals,,,,,

After Robin van Persie came close to scoring a chipped wondergoal on Sunday, TEAMtalk's Jon Holmes rounds up some more sensational near-misses.

As we reflected on the weekend's Premier League action at TEAMtalk Towers on Monday, we were still marvelling at Robin van Persie's sublime chip for Arsenal against Sunderland which hit the inside of Simon Mignolet's post and bounced across the face of goal before being cleared.

It was described in the YouTube video below (published by Arsenalist.com) as a 'Nearly Amazing Goal'...

Van Persie committed to Arsenal,,,,,

Robin van Persie has stressed his commitment to Arsenal and laughed off claims him selling his house was evidence he is leaving the club.Arsenal have endured a woeful start to the season, losing four of their opening seven league games, one of which came at Old Trafford where they were humiliated 8-2 by Manchester United. The poor start to the campaign has come off the back of a tumultuous summer off the pitch that saw the club lose former captain Cesc Fabregas and star midfielder Samir Nasri.

Van Persie said recently that he was in no rush to extend his contract, which expires in 2013, but he denies he wants to leave. "There have been many stories in the media lately. "I am committed to Arsenal. I am the captain. Don't believe everything you read. "As for that house story, the house has been for sale for a while, but I'm not living on the streets or anything.

Gerrard pleased by Reds return,,,,

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard is delighted to have made his return against Manchester United on Saturday and feels his side deserved to win.Six months on the sidelines after a groin operation in March was not an enjoyable time for Gerrard. So, after three substitute appearances totalling just under an hour, he made the most of his first start since his surgery with a goal.

 A man-of-the-match performance would have been capped had his 68th-minute free-kick through the gap in the wall, kindly provided by Ryan Giggs, proved to be the winner.However, Javier Hernandez - surprisingly left on the bench along with Wayne Rooney - denied Gerrard a triumphant return to his rightful place at the heart of the side with a close-range header nine minutes from time. But nevertheless, the Huyton-born midfielder was glad to be back. "I didn't realise what I had until it was taken away from me for so long," said Gerrard."So I am delighted to be back and be able to experience the emotion of big games again. "It has been a frustrating six months watching the lads from the stands and I much prefer to be out there having an impact on the game. 

Wenger hails Mertesacker impact,,,,,

Arsene Wenger has reminded his critics that he put together Arsenal's Invincibles' defence - and has likened Per Mertesacker to Tony Adams.Arsenal have been beset by defensive problems for what seems like an eternity now and their latest centre-half signing, Mertesacker, has already come in for heavy criticism.

Wenger, however, insists Mertesacker has the ability to organise and be the on-field leader Arsenal have missed since Patrick Vieira left the club. He has also pointed out that he has put together a successful defence before - and he is confident Mertesacker can be a big part of a new solid backline.

While Arsenal have taken just seven points from seven matches in the league so far this season, Wenger is convinced a top four finish is still realistic. "It is important for us to be consistent in the Premiership," he said. "We are a club of a certain stature and it is important that we do not let teams run away from us." Arsenal will also resume their Champions League campaign on Wednesday when they travel to Marseille. Their form in Europe so far has been good, negotiating that qualifying tie against Udinese and drawing against Borussia Dortmund and beating Olympiakos in the group stage. Marseille, however, top the group after two wins and Wenger said: "Marseille have potential and a good midfield. They are a good team (beat Dortmund 3-0). "Marseille can be dangerous because they are good at counter-attack and I think at home they will try to play like that against us. "

Chelsea to take triple gamble,,,,

Andre Villas-Boas says Chelsea will not have to sell Didier Drogba, Nicolas Anelka and Salomon Kalou before their contracts expire next summer.This season looks certain to be Anelka's last at Stamford Bridge, while there is increasing uncertainty over the future of Drogba, who has yet to agree a new deal.

Villas-Boas revealed this week that Kalou had also been offered a contract extension, but time is running out for Chelsea to secure these assets, each of whom will be able to negotiate a free transfer at the turn of the year. But despite the club reporting losses of £70.9million , transforming the fortunes of Academica before leading Porto to an incredible quadruple.And he has revealed he might even have taken a different path had he accepted an offer to join Sporting Lisbon shortly after becoming a manager. "I was two weeks into a job and I was being offered a job at Sporting Lisbon," he said before explaining why he stayed put.

AW negative on England chances,,,,

Arsene Wenger says England have no more than an "outside chance" at Euro 2012, after again ruling himself out as Fabio Capello's successor.The Arsenal manager has been pretty vocal about the England side of late, but does not rate their chances of success at the championships in Poland and Ukraine next summer.

Wenger said of England's hopes: "For me England are outsiders. They can maybe win it if they click just right at the time of the competition and their main players - (Steven) Gerrard, (Wayne) Rooney - are in fantastic form. "Gerrard has not played for a long time now but if he comes back in after a good rest in top form, then why not? And Capello has the quality to get the best out of the team,English triumph." Wenger believes Capello must take Rooney to Euro 2012 despite the Manchester United striker not being able to take part in the group stages because of his three-match UEFA ban.

The Arsenal boss, however, insists that his 18-year-old summer signing, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, could be ready for Fabio Capello's squad by then. Oxlade-Chamberlain scored a hat-trick for England Under-21 against Iceland in Reykjavik last week to underline his emergence as one of the country's top prospects. Wenger added: "I don't rule him out (of going to Euro 2012). It depends on his progress here. You cannot rule him out because he has the basic talent. In the next five, six months we will see how he adjusts to the physical intensity of the game." Wenger admits Oxlade-Chamberlain has surprised him with the speed with which he has settled in at the Emirates Stadium.

Walcott did not feature in any England games in Germany and he was left out of the squad four years later in South Africa. Wenger said: "Theo Walcott went at 17 years of age to the World Cup and Chamberlain is already 18 now. They are at different stages. "I believe that Chamberlain is more in the build-up of a game and Walcott is more striker minded. They are different types of players, both gifted." Wenger also believes the critics should be more understanding of Walcott, whose pace has been seen as one of England's biggest weapons but whose crossing has been suspect. He said: "I watched the England game (against Montenegro). I thought he worked hard for the team.

Suarez slams diving accusations,,,,

Liverpool striker Luis Suarez has hit back at the critics of his on-field theatrics by insisting: "I have never been a diver."While the Uruguay international's performances have impressed since arriving at Anfield from Ajax in January, the striker has also been accused of making too much of challenges.

Suarez, however, insists there is nothing sinister about his reaction to tackles. "I don't trick anybody," the forward told The Sun ahead of Saturday's Premier League clash with Manchester United. "I have never been a diver - only a forward who receives so many fouls. "The Premier League is more exciting than anywhere else I have played and it's always a battle because it is so physical."

Modric not a nuisance – Redknapp,,,,

Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp admits he may have sold Luka Modric to Chelsea this summer had the Croatian become a disruptive influence.Modric was at the centre of a summer-long fight between Spurs and Chelsea, with the Blues making at least three unsuccessful bids for the playmaker - the last reported to be £40million.

Modric made it clear that he wanted to move to Stamford Bridge, and refused to play in the club's game against Manchester United, claiming he was not psychologically ready to play after months of uncertainty about his future. The Croatian has knuckled down since the transfer window shut, however, putting in a series of impressive performances to help Spurs put together the four-match winning streak which has seen them turn their season around after a dismal start. Like Modric, Manchester City striker Carlos Tevez wanted to leave his club this summer, but he was also denied a move after talks with Brazilian side Corinthians fell through.

Tevez's relationship with his club has deteriorated rapidly since, with the low point coming two weeks ago when he allegedly refused to come off the bench to play for City in their Champions League defeat at Bayern Munich. Redknapp thinks Modric would never resort to "The more disruptive players are, sometimes it forces it (a move). "You spend half your time looking at them, who else they're dragging down with them. He has close friends here. "I do think that this team potentially could be the best I've had here," Redknapp said. "It's a good group of players. Scott and Emmanuel have come in and they have been a big influence on us this year. Kyle Walker is emerging as a top-class right-back as well so we're looking stronger." Jermain Defoe has played a big part in the turnaround in Spurs' fortunes, scoring four goals after striking up a good partnership with Adebayor.

Harry unsure on Beckham move,,,,

Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp admits he is unsure if he will make a new move to sign David Beckham, amid reports he could join PSG.Spurs tried to sign Beckham last January after the LA Galaxy midfielder linked up with Redknapp's side for training following the end of the MLS campaign.

Beckham's contract at LA Galaxy expires in December and he has been linked with a switch back to Europe. Big-spending Paris Saint-Germain have been credited with an interest in the former England international with sporting director Leonardo keen to be reunited with the veteran having worked with him at AC Milan. Redknapp is a huge admirer of the former Three Lions captain, but he admits that he would not be able to guarantee him regular football at White Hart Lane. "It's a difficult one," admitted Redknapp. "You would love him around your football club. As I have said many times, you couldn't get a better professional and a nicer guy."But he wants to play and it would be difficult because I have a lot of players here at the moment in those sort of positions, so it wouldn't be easy. The newspaper further claimed that everything needed to conclude any potential deal is in place bar Beckham's signature, while even going so far as to state that accommodation for the player and his family had already been sought out. Reports by UK-based media also indicated that initial contact had been made between PSG and Beckham's representatives, but it is understood that the speculation is wide of the mark.  

Beckham has previously stated he is reluctant to make a decision on his future until the MLS season ends in November." Beckham and wife Victoria recently had their fourth child and the former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder is adamant his family's considerations will be paramount in deciding where to go next.

Dalglish plays down SAF rivalry,,,,,,

Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish is not interested in scoring points against old foe Sir Alex Ferguson - just against his Manchester United team.The relationship between the two Glaswegians has a long history, stretching back to the first time Dalglish was in charge at Anfield more than 20 years ago.

On taking over from Roy Hodgson at a few hours' notice in January, Dalglish's first appearance in the Liverpool dugout second time around was at Old Trafford, where his side were knocked out of the FA Cup. The Reds gained some revenge a couple of months later with a 3-1 league victory -  "These are football clubs that are playing - we don't play any more. We can't influence anything other than what we do in the build-up and preparation for the games. "The most important thing for us is to how we compete on the pitch as a team. 

"Head to head (against Ferguson)? I wouldn't have a clue what the score is in that and it doesn't really matter to me. "I am in competition with him because we are playing against them on Saturday but over and above that we are a unit. "Everyone has an important role to play and if  Dalglish, however, maintained his oft-repeated mantra about protecting the 31-year-old and not pushing him too hard. "We are delighted with the progress he has made and he is delighted by the way he has been looked after," said the Scot. "When we think he is ready to play he will be the first to answer the call but we are not going to sit here and tell you what the team is. "We will base the decision on where he is at the moment and what he has done so far - we don't need to go back and through his history or what he has done against Manchester United. "We just have to see where he is at the moment and if we think it is right he will play."

Kalou offered new Blues deal,,,,

Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas has confirmed the club have offered a new deal to Ivory Coast international Salomon Kalou. The 26-year-old, along with the likes of Didier Drogba and Nicolas Anelka, is out of contract at the end of the season.

Kalou's Stamford Bridge future had looked uncertain but Villas-Boas has revealed the striker had been offered a fresh terms. The former Feyenoord man has made just two Premier League starts under Villas-Boas, leading to speculation over his future. However, the Portuguese is keen to retain Kalou and he is not worried by the mental state of the trio while talks continue. "Kalou was offered a contract and hopefully we will continue talks," he told the club's official website. "In January these players are available to discuss their future. We'll continue talks until we reach an agreement or not. "The fact that they are emotionally tied to this club - like Nico (Anelka) - too, means we can count on them while they are negotiating. Their loyalty to the club will never be in question."

Trapattoni in confident mood,,,,

Giovanni Trapattoni is in confident mood ahead of the Republic of Ireland's Euro 2012 play-off against Estonia next month.Estonia stand between the Republic of Ireland and a place in next summer's European Championships after the two were paired together in today's play-off draw.

Having finished second to Russia in qualifying group B for the tournament, Trapattoni's men must now amend a dreadful two-legged record to book their place in Poland and Ukraine. Ireland will start their latest attempt to qualify for a major tournament in Estonia on Friday, November 11, with the return leg at Dublin's Aviva Stadium on Tuesday, November 15. "It is extremely positive for Ireland that we will play the first leg away," veteran coach Trapattoni said. "We should not underestimate our opposition, or any team, including Estonia. "To have made it through to the play-off, they must have quality and mental fortitude. "Our build up to this stage of the competition has shown us the importance of organisation, attention to detail, and self-belief. " Asked if he thought Trapattoni's side would go through, he told Sky Sports News: "Yes. We've got the greatest travelling fans and it would be great to see them on the road again."' The former Liverpool player believes the Republic were fortunate to draw Estonia. He said: "It was probably the easiest of the four (unseeded teams to draw).

"We travel better than we play at home, we've had better results away than we have had at home." Aldridge admitted the suspension of striker Kevin Doyle, still waiting to hear the length of his punishment after being sent off in the qualifier against Armenia on Tuesday which the Republic won 2-1, would be a blow to the team's chances. However, he backed Shane Long to fill the breach. with the other ties seeing Turkey taking on Croatia, the Czech Republic facing Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina going up against Portugal. Portugal and Bosnia were both losers in winner-takes-all showdowns on Tuesday, with Portugal being defeated by Denmark and with it surrendering top spot in Group H, while Bosnia drew 1-1 with France when a win would have seen them pip Laurent Blanc's men to the automatic spot in Group B. The Czechs took second in Group I, winning a two-way tussle with Scotland to finish behind reigning champions Spain.

Ireland seeded for play-off draw,,,,,,,,

The Republic of Ireland, Portugal, Croatia and the Czech Republic will be the seeded teams in Thursday's draw for the Euro 2012 play-offs.The four teams were chosen based on their national team coefficients ahead of the draw in Krakow.

Turkey, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Estonia and Montenegro are the four unseeded teams. The first leg of the play-offs will be played on November 11 and 12, with the return legs on November 15. Already through to the finals, alongside co-hosts Poland and Ukraine, are holders Spain, Germany, Russia, Italy, France, Holland, Greece, England, Denmark and Sweden. The finals draw is on December 2 in Kiev and the tournament runs from June 8 until July 1 next year at eight venues.

Tevez urged to resolve City spat,,,

Pablo Zabaleta believes there is widespread anxiety about the future of Carlos Tevez as the Manchester City striker waits to discover his fate.The former West Ham and Manchester United forward was banned by City and an internal investigation was launched after he apparently refused to play as a substitute against Bayern Munich in the Champions League in September. Furious City boss Roberto Mancini declared Tevez was 'finished' at the club immediately after the defeat to Bayern and it has been speculated whether the wealthy Premier League outfit could be prepared to sack the forward.

Tevez, who has twice requested a transfer away from City, is due to fly back to Manchester on Wednesday and the 27-year-old could be back in training on Thursday after returning to Argentina during his two-week club suspension. "Everybody wants to know and everybody is worried about the situation because, as Argentinians, we care about Carlos," Zabaleta, who was sat next to his compatriot in the dugout against Bayern, was quoted as saying via a translator on Sky Sports News after his country's shock defeat to Venezuela. "It hurts us that he is going through such a rough period. He always tries to be careful and respect everybody who is involved in the situation and the club as well. "At the end, he is the one who is going to solve this problem. "Carlos is a player who enjoys being desired. He is much respected in the Premier League. He has been living there for many years. "

Cattermole: Refs out to get me

Sunderland midfielder Lee Cattermole believes referees are out to get him and he is determined to shed the bad-boy image.Under-pressure manager Steve Bruce substituted the tough-tackling former Middlesbrough and Wigan man after he received his third booking of the season with 20 minutes remaining in the 2-2 draw with West Brom prior to the international break.

It was a change designed to protect Cattermole, who has been booked 47 times and sent off on five occasions in domestic competitions since 2005/06, but he defends his record. "I feel like they (the referees) are out there for me at the minute It's something I have to address, but if you put every foul I've ever made up on the television, I think there'd be one tackle which was actually a bad one.

"That was against Scott Parker when I was playing for Wigan and I've spoken to him since to apologise about it. That's the only bad tackle I've made in my career - all the rest have been genuine attempts to win the ball, not nasty attempts to hurt someone." Cattermole was furious after being substituted against West Brom and believes Baggies midfielder Steven Reid is just one of several players who attempt to paint him as a villain. "The tackle I got booked for wasn't a foul, simple as that," Captain Cattermole had returned to Sunderland's starting line-up against West Brom having been dropped for the 4-0 win over Stoke.

kenny welcomes Gerrard return,,,

Kenny Dalglish has welcomed the return to fitness of Steven Gerrard as he prepares to start the Liverpool captain against Manchester United.Gerrard has only recently come back into contention for the Reds following a groin operation which kept him on the sidelines for six months.

He has so far made only three appearances as a substitute, while he was left out of England's squad for the 2-2 draw with Montenegro in Euro 2012 qualifying last Friday. Dalglish has been careful not to push the midfielder too hard during the early part of his comeback, "A fit Steven Gerrard strengthens this football club, no question. If you have Steven in your squad, it's going to raise the profile and standard," said Dalglish."We want to have a really strong squad - and him being in it makes it that much stronger."

Cleverley signs new United deal,,,,,

Manchester United midfielder Tom Cleverley has signed a new four-year contract to keep him at Old Trafford until at least the summer of 2015.The deal was announced on Monday morning. "Tom is one of the brightest prospects in the English game," said manager Sir Alex Ferguson. One of the substitutes who transformed the Community Shield clash with Manchester City, Cleverley then started four successive Premier League games, including the impressive home victories over Tottenham and Arsenal, before suffering ligament damage to his foot at Bolton last month.Since then, the 22-year-old has been sidelined, although Ferguson is hoping to have the Basingstoke-born player back for Saturday's trip to Liverpool. 

"For a young boy, he has a good footballing brain which, when coupled with his energy and ability, makes for a player with a fine future ahead of him," added Ferguson. "It's the United way to encourage our young players to make their mark in the first team and Tom has grabbed that chance with both hands." 

Like so many promising English youngsters, Cleverley has benefited enormously from the time he spent on loan. In his case it was an integral role in Wigan's successful fight against relegation last season that toughened him up. "It's been a fantastic start to the season for me, breaking into the first team and getting an England call-up"Having grown up at the club, I'd love to be able to make a contribution to United winning more trophies. "We have a squad with great ability and I can't wait to get started again."

Corinthians still keen on Carlos,,,,

Corinthians director of football Edu says the Brazilian club would still like to sign Manchester City striker Carlos Tevez for the right money.Edu was quoted last week suggesting Tevez was no longer in Corinthians' thinking but, speaking exclusively on Sky Sports News, the former Arsenal midfielder has confirmed they are very much still interested in luring their former star back to Brazil "Now we are here [in England] and we will talk and see what the situation is and we will look to sign him in the summer.

"I will talk to the president - we offered 40million euros and now the money we had we have spent some of as that is football. "We want to see how Tevez is and what his situation is, we will see if we can do a deal - he is very famous in Brazil and everyone loves him, and the fans want him."

Edu confirmed he had met with Tevez's agent Kia Joorabchian at the recent Leaders in Football conference, but insisted they did not talk about the Argentine. "I spoke to him [Joorabchian] at the congress, but very formal not really about Tevez yet - we are quite friendly and have a good relationship but not about Tevez yet," said Edu. "It is a lot of things to think about. Carlos Tevez has a lot of things around him." Edu himself starred for Arsenal during his time in England and he cannot understand why any player would struggle to settle.

Bruce vows to get Cats on track,,,,

Sunderland boss Steve Bruce is hopeful he retains the support of the club's hierarchy - and is sure he can get the team on track if he does.Bruce is currently in Korea as part of a club delegation seeking to promote the Black Cats brand around the world,

but that did not prevent the rumour machine going into overdrive once again over the weekend. Sources on Wearside have been swift to dismiss suggestions that Bruce was under threat with Martin O'Neill being lined up to replace him at the Stadium of Light. However, there is little doubt results need to improve on Wearside if the 50-year-old is to retain the support he currently enjoys from owner and new chairman Ellis Short, and that could prove difficult this weekend when Sunderland resume their Premier League campaign with a trip to Arsenal. But Bruce remains confident he will get it right. He told the Northern Echo: "I hope that people still have faith in me. "I know people will be questioning me, of course they are. But I'm a determined, resilient, horrible so-and-so and I will try my utmost to turn it around. The Black Cats headed into the break for international matches sitting in 16th place in the table after a run of seven league games which has brought just one victory.

Bannan doubtful for Spain clash,,,,,

Craig Levein is sweating over the fitness of Barry Bannan ahead of Scotland's crucial Euro 2012 Group I qualifier in Spain on Tuesday night.The Aston Villa midfielder sustained an Achilles injury in Saturday night's 1-0 win over Liechtenstein in Vaduz which took the Scots into second place, one point above Czech Republic.

          Bannan: Has an Achilles injury 

The Scots now at least have to equal the Czechs' performance in Lithuania if they are to clinch a play-off spot. The Scotland boss revealed other bumps and bruises within his squad and confirmed striker Kenny Miller, who missed the game against Liechtenstein with a groin injury, would be assessed but Bannan appears to be a new worry."Barry Bannan has a gash on his heel and he was uncomfortable this morning," said Levein. "It is a really awkward area. "The doctor had to put some glue on it to hold it together. "He is doubtful, but it is very soon after the game to get a clear picture of who is going to be available or not. 

Neville blasts England hopes,,,,,

Gary Neville does not believe the current England side is good enough to win Euro 2012 and believes the players have "very little invention".The ex-Manchester United right-back, now working in the media, won 85 caps for his country but was part of a number of sides that failed to deliver at a major tournament.

              England: Through to finals of Euro 2012 

Friday's 2-2 draw in Montenegro ensured England's qualification for next summer's European Championships, but Neville has highlighted a number of areas in the current squad that he believes will stop Fabio Capello's men from making an impression in Poland and Ukraine. England will start the tournament without the suspended Wayne Rooney following his red card on Friday, but Neville feels there are greater problems to address. Writing in the Mail on Sunday, he said: "The real issue is that the spine of the team is not good enough, as it stands, to take on Spain, Italy, France or Germany at Euro 2012. "We're now talking about Rooney possibly missing two games of Euro 2012 when what we should be talking about is the spine of a team that has no mobility and can't keep the ball. "Somehow, Capello has to do something that no England manager has done in 15 years, and that is make the England players believe that this next match could be the most important of their life.

Rooney has said sorry – Capello,,,,,,,

Fabio Capello has revealed Wayne Rooney apologised to his England team-mates after he was sent off in Friday night's 2-2 draw with Montenegro.Rooney's dismissal - the second of his international career - took the gloss off a result that was enough to confirm England's presence at Euro 2012.

              Rooney: Shown red card against Montenegro 

And it was needless too. Kicking out at Miodrag Dzudovic, right in front of England manager Fabio Capello, Rooney gave German referee Wolfgang Stark little option to brandish the red card. It means the 25-year-old joins David Beckham as the only men to have been sent off twice for England, and more important rules him out of the first match in the finals next summer, and possibly more depending on how UEFA choose to deal with the matter. "He made a silly mistake and said: 'Yes, sorry'," said Capello. "It's a red card. You can't defend that. "He's a really important player with a lot of experience, and he's played really important games. "But he has made a silly mistake. I have seen players like him do that. You can't understand why." Coming just a day after his father was arrested as part of a police investigation into an illegal betting scam in Scotland, it raised the question as to whether he should have been picked. 

"I am not happy," said Capello. "I spoke with him. More than that, I can't do. "We will find a solution to play without him. We will try something in the next games, the friendlies that we play, to prepare for the future."

Fletcher fit and ready for Scots,,,,,

Darren Fletcher has revealed his determination to play his part in Scotland's crunch Euro 2012 qualifying double-header.Fletcher shrugged off a bout of tonsillitis to join up with Craig Levein's squad in Switzerland on Friday night. At almost the same time, the Scotland medical team were ruling out Kenny Miller, who will be replaced by Brighton striker Craig Mackail-Smith after failing to overcome his groin injury.

After settling in, Fletcher said: "These are two huge games and I was determined to be involved in both of them. "I felt a lot better on Thursday and spoke to the manager about joining up.. "This is a massive double-header. A win against Liechtenstein is a must and we will do all we can to keep our hopes alive for Tuesday's match against Spain." Levein was handed a boost when the Czech Republic lost 2-0 to runaway group winners Spain in Prague on Friday night. Scotland will move in to second place by a point with a win over Liechtenstein, albeit the Czechs have on paper the easier final fixture against Lithuania on Tuesday night. With the race for the play-off spot reaching boiling point, the Scotland boss paid tribute to Fletcher's commitment to the cause.

Fulham aim to expand Cottage,,,,,

Fulham have confirmed they are staying at Craven Cottage and have revealed plans that would see the ground's capacity increase to 30,000.The stadium has been the Whites' home since 1896 and currently holds 25,700 after several refurbishment projects over the past decade. Recent speculation suggested Fulham have been looking to move to a new stadium, and a potential ground share with west London neighbours 

                Craven Cottage: Fulham's home 

QPR or Chelsea has also been reported. However, the Cottagers have confirmed that no such talks have taken place with either club and that they intend to stay at a redeveloped Craven Cottage. "We are still in the very early stages of the planning process and will be holding a public exhibition in mid-October, where we would very much welcome people's thoughts on our initial ideas."

In information released on Saturday, Fulham revealed they are looking at ways to develop the Riverside Stand in order to increase the stadium's capacity up to 30,000. The venue would also be subject to wider facility improvements and, as part of the consultation process, the club will begin speaking to residents, supporters and other interested groups from next week. Fulham thought they had played their last match at Craven Cottage at the end of the 2001-02 campaign, spending the following season at QPR's Loftus Road with the intention of starting out a new stadium a year later. Chelsea have also hit the headlines as they consider stadium options.

Johnson Return & targets United clash,,,,

Liverpool's Glen Johnson is hoping to be part of the Reds' squad for their Premier League clash with Manchester United a week on Saturday.

Having originally picked up a hamstring injury in a pre-season friendly against Valencia, Johnson aggravated it when making his comeback appearance as a substitute in the defeat to Stoke on September 10. The England international has not featured since, but now has his sights set on United's visit to Anfield on October 15. "I'm feeling good at the moment and I've been doing plenty of running," Johnson told the Reds' official website."I've just started doing ball work outside in training so I reckon it won't be too long now. "I'm working hard and it would be nice to be back in the squad for the Man United game. Hopefully I can make the bench anyway, so fingers crossed."

Corinthians close door on Tevez,,,,

Corinthians are not looking to make another move for unsettled Manchester City striker Carlos Tevez, according to their general manager Edu.The Brazilian club made a bid for Tevez this summer after he expressed his desire to leave Manchester City, but ran out of time to complete a deal.

           Tevez: Corinthians not interested in fresh move 

Since then, the 27-year-old Argentina international has made only two starts for City and was last week suspended by them following his alleged refusal to come on as a substitute in their Champions League defeat at Bayern Munich. It has left his future at the Premier League club uncertain, but Edu - the former Arsenal and Brazil midfielder - says that as things stand, Corinthians are not thinking about renewing their interest in the forward, who left them to join West Ham in 2006. but Tevez was not mentioned. "We are always interested in world class players like Carlos but you need to analyse if it's right for you at that time to try to sign him or not. We have not spoken to him or his agent." Edu has been at the Leaders in Football conference in London this week, where Tevez's advisor Kia Joorabchian on Wednesday insisted the striker did not refuse to play for City in Munich, claiming that post-match comments by the player suggesting he had done so were mistranslated by a club interpreter. Referring to the events in the Bayern match, Edu said: "It is very strange for me to hear that he refused to come on. "Every player knows that sometimes you have to be on bench, you work for the team whether you're playing or not. "They pay him to work for the team whether he plays or not. I was a player and I can understand that sometimes it doesn't feel good to be on the bench, but if he decided not to play that was a very bad decision."

Van Persie unsure of future,,,,,

Robin van Persie admits he is unsure about his future, although the Arsenal striker sees no reason to leave the "best league in the world".Speculation has surfaced over the Dutchman's future since he announced last month that he was in no rush to sign a contract extension at Arsenal, with his current deal set to expire in the summer of 2013. 

                 Van Persie: Two years left on contract 

He did make it clear that he was happy with the Gunners, while manager Arsene Wenger also insisted there was nothing to worry about. Arsenal's poor form this season has nevertheless led to suggestions that Van Persie may eventually decide to follow the likes of Cesc Fabregas and Samir Nasri out of Emirates Stadium in a quest for silverware. "I do not know (what I will do), I cannot predict the future," the 28-year-old said in The Times. "Everybody makes his own history and only afterwards can you see how that went." Manchester City have been linked with a move for Van Persie as they look to continue the progress they have made in recent years, and he has not ruled out moving to another English club"Van Persie also stressed that it was not up to him to judge Wenger's transfer policy at Arsenal, following criticism of the Frenchman in some quarters. He said: "I'm not a technical director and coach. I have no input into it."

Buck: AVB could do a decade,,,,,

Bruce Buck admits Andre Villas-Boas could be "the right guy" to bring some stability to Chelsea by remaining as manager for over a decade.Villas-Boas is the seventh boss of the Roman Abramovich era, but Buck believes the club may finally have found their Sir Alex Ferguson figure.

                           Villas-Boas: First season as Blues boss 

Ferguson will celebrate 25 years in charge of United next month, while Arsene Wenger last week marked 15 years as Arsenal manager. Buck told BBC Sport: "We do envy Arsene Wenger at Arsenal and Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United in terms of longevity, but it shouldn't be longevity for longevity's sake. "It has to be the right guy in the job for 10 or 15 years and, in light of Andre's age, he may well be that guy." Villas-Boas turns 34 this month and is only his third season of full-time management. The Portuguese has previously said he only wants to remain in the profession for between 10 and 15 years. Buck added: "Everyone thinks his age might have been a negative but it's a positive. ""The way we've tried to attack that - not as successfully as we'd have liked to be honest - is by putting a lot of money into the academy. "The maths is pretty simple. If you can bring a player or two through the academy every couple of years, then you're saving £10million, £20million, £30million of transfer fees."

Wilshere committed to Gunners,,,,,

Jack Wilshere has insisted he has no intention of following Cesc Fabregas and Samir Nasri out of Arsenal.England midfielder Wilshere, who was last week ruled out until February after undergoing ankle surgery, is confident he can realise all his ambitions with the Gunners. Nasri and Gael Clichy quit the club for Manchester City in August, while Fabregas joined Barcelona.

Robin van Persie, Theo Walcott, Alex Song and Andrey Arshavin all have less than two years remaining on their current contracts, fuelling fears they could be next to leave. But star man Wilshere, who signed a new five-year deal in November, told the Evening Standard: "No disrespect to Manchester City but Arsenal is the perfect home for me right now. "Some players have got their price but, to be honest, that's not the way I look at the game. "All I think about is playing at the highest level and in the top competitions so I can measure myself against the best in the world. "I really am happy at Arsenal at the minute. Obviously, I want to win things and I want to do it with Arsenal." The Gunners have made a wretched start to the season and lie 15th in the Premier League, piling the pressure on boss Arsene Wenger, who had already gone six years without winning a trophy. Wilshere said: "We do get a harder time from the critics than most teams but we haven't won anything for six years and that's not good enough for Arsenal. "It is harsh, though, especially on the boss. "He has been there for 15 years and been great for Arsenal. The criticism Arsene gets is just a joke." He added: "We started a bit slowly but we still feel we can finish in the top four."

Rio rep douses Fire rumours,,,

Rio Ferdinand's representative says the Manchester United defender intends to ignore any overtures from Major League Soccer.After being left out of United's starting line-up for the weekend win over Norwich, Ferdinand was then ignored by Fabio Capello for England's Euro 2012 qualifier with Montenegro on Friday.

Given Phil Jones' outstanding form following his summer arrival from Blackburn, there has been plenty of speculation that Ferdinand, who is nearly 33 and has been plagued by fitness problems for three years, might be eased out at Old Trafford. With that backdrop, it is not a surprise that ambitious MLS outfit Chicago Fire have emerged as a potential suitor. However, now into his 10th season at United, Ferdinand has made it perfectly clear he still feels there is a major role for him to play with the Red Devils. "It has been a very frustrating period for all concerned," said Ferdinand's long-standing friend and representative Jamie Moralee. "What he wants to do is put his injuries behind him and start showing the form that even last season he produced against some of the very best forwards in the world. "Rio understands there is some great talent at Manchester United. But he is up for the challenge of that and I am sure he has a big part to play. "He is now in his 10th season at United. He still has a great hunger and desire to win trophies. It is the type of challenge he thrives on." Ferdinand has never been a stereotypical footballer. His wide-ranging business interests, including his own restaurant in Manchester and digital magazine, emphasise how he will not be short of things to occupy his mind when retirement eventually beckons. However, having been part of a club where Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, Gary Neville and Edwin van der Sar have all starred at the top level well into their 30s, Ferdinand does not believe that day is looming just yet. 

However, having spent this summer in the United States with United - where Chicago were one of their opponents on a very successful pre-season tour - it is easy to see why the defender would be so attractive, given the boost in profile the MLS has received from the arrivals of Ferdinand's one-time team-mate David Beckham and former Arsenal star Thierry Henry. "I understand the reasons why someone like Rio would be attractive to them," said Moralee. "There is an appeal on and off the pitch because he could help retain the global status provided by Beckham and Henry. "But I must stress, these stories are nothing to do with Rio. "We have never discussed anything beyond life at Manchester United because that is all he cares about." To the extent that Ferdinand has been actively helping Jones, Chris Smalling, Jonny Evans and even striker Danny Welbeck on the training ground. Welbeck spoke warmly about the former West Ham skipper on Tuesday, insisting there is no way anyone should start writing him off just yet. It is a message Ferdinand is keen to get out himself. "When you enter your 10th year at a club, a testimonial is something in the background, but that is something else that has never been discussed either," said Moralee. "It doesn't matter whether it is the 10th year, the 11th year or the 13th, when the time is right, we will sit down with the club and talk about it. "But for now it is not on the agenda. The only thing that matters is getting back out on the pitch for Manchester United on a regular basis again because there is so much he still wants to achieve with them."