Wenger hope over the concern of veal Vermaelen

Defender Thomas Vermaelen Arsenal will be the subject of tests Wednesday after arriving off the coast of calf problem like towards the end of the Carling Cup victory against Bolton.

GettyImagesThomas Vermaelen is helped from the field in the Carling Cup win on Bolton

Vermaelen made his return very expected of an Achilles injury in starting in the fourth round 2-1 victory, playing 84 minutes at the Emirates before being replaced by rookie Daniel Boateng. Manager Arsene Wenger revealed Vermaelen has requested to be removed after a printing problem in his calf, but he is convinced that the Belgian has not suffered actual injury.

"He did very well, but he had to go out for a calf problem," said Wenger. "I hope that's not too bad." It will be a little short for Saturday [against Chelsea in the Premier League]. I know not yet what happened.

"We'll test him tomorrow [Wednesday], but was not too bad air.". He has been off for a long time and not had a single training session yesterday with the team.

"I did not expect a game of this intensity because it was a really difficult gamefor a central back tonight as they put us under pressure in the secondhalf.". I do not think that it is a strain of veal, I think it's just a calfbecause tight he has not played 90 minutes for three months.

"He wanted to get out." In all fairness, I would not remove because Ithought it was stupid to four minutes to go when we conceded a goal. He was adamant that he could not go on so I hope that's not too bad. »

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City dispel fears about the absence of Hargreaves

Manchester City moved to dispel fears Owen Hargreaves suffered anythingother as a very minor setback in its bid to resurrect his career.

GettyImagesOwen Hargreaves will not be playing in Carling Cup Wednesday

Hargreaves was eliminated from the Carling Cupfourth round to Wolves traverse after a kick in the calf. The match would have otherwise provided the age of 30 years with an excellent opportunity to get some competitive football under its belt it seeks to establish itself in the city.

The midfielder, who made early top scorer for the overBirmingham city of their victory in the third round, came out by Manchester United in the summer after the threeinjury-ravaged seasons.

First team coach David Platt, said: "there is no concern about it." There alittle niggle that, because it is Owen Hargreaves, we talk about it. It's not much, it is just a kick in the calf. We had it scanned and there was no attraction or anything.

"He was in was has not decomposed. If it had broken down we would be talking about himbeing out for three or four weeks, but this is not the case. »

Hargreaves played 57 minutes against Birmingham five weeks but his onlyappearance since then was as a late substitute in the first League of Barclays 4-1 Aston Villa winover October 15.

It was thought to be in the running for a place on the bench for Sunday over his former club derbywin, he was not named in the team.

Hargreaves has been hampered by problems in both knees during his stay in the Unitedbefore, he suffered a wound in the thigh at the start of what proved to be his finalappearance for Club last November. Yet, while the city do not want to risk him at the Molineux, they insist it is not because they need to treat with more care than any other player.

Platt said: "it is there or nearby, but the fact of the matter is hehasn can't trained for three or four days. Go and do a light training session and then go to it, you wouldn't do with any player. Which has nothing to do with whether or not it is Owen.

"Since we have returned to the international break, Owen Hargreaves has been available for selection to be the 24-25 players. It may well have been in the team for the derby. It might have been in the stand, on the bench, or he may have played.

"We look more like another case, while leading to the international break, we were still in its preparation"pre-season ". We are more than. He comes into the equation as any other player he is now.

"He came on 1 September and we are now at the end of October. It is seven weeks, and it was off the field of the formation of five days. Rather than talk about what is happened in the past three years, it is now a Manchester City player, and we must leave when it was atManchester City to it. »

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Beckenbauer calls for clarity of the offside rule

Franz Beckenbauer, the head of the Task Force Football 2014 FIFA, asked that there an offside rule "clear and understandable."

GettyImagesFranz Beckenbauer wants to see some changes.

Beckenbauer believes there needs to be clarification on when a player is actively or passively offside, with task due to respond quickly, should provide for discussion and "triple punishment", which means players expelled for refusing to only a chance of striker will receive a red card, concede a penalty and the subsequent ban.

On the law of offside, reading from a statement: "the Group discussed the interpretationof law 11 regarding active and passive offside." The Chairman asked the members of the task force to come with suggestions for a clear and understandable rule at the time of the next meeting of the group. »

Beckenbauer, nicknamed 'Der Kaiser', added: "in my time it was very simple, off was an offside, case itdidn can't where the ball was. [Now] is nonsense, it's too complicated.

"We have a situation with an offside active and passive at this time." I think that weshould stay far away from complex expressions, we should return to make itmore simple, not as if it were at the beginning but somewhere between the two. »

On the question of the triple penalty, the statement added: "simple other faults in the area of the penalty should only be sanctioned with a penalty and a yellow card." The same penalty is proposed for a goalie who is trying to catch the ball but clad legs of a player. The objective is to make it easier for referees ensure uniform and fair decisions. »

Legislative changes should be submitted to the Commission of the FA International in March, while Beckenbauer has also commented on the topic of fair play: "there were a number of items on the agenda, including the subject of fair play, and we discussed what must be done better in the future.".

"What we saw last year was terrible, including the most important match of the last four years, namely, the FIFA World Cup 2010 final between the Spain and the Netherlands in South Africa."

"The way in which both teams behaved in the first half was horrible." It is supposed to be good of bea to the football game, but it was quite the contrary. The final of the Copa Libertadores in South America was similar and things like that do not belong on a football field, they need to be punished. »

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Wages problematic for Adebayor transfer

Emmanuel Adebayor's impressive start to his loan spell with Tottenham Hotspur has already led to talk of a permanent move from Manchester City, but the player would have to accept a drop in wages to make the move happen.

GettyImagesEmmanuel Adebayor celebrates a debut goal at Wolves

• Redknapp still wants Cahill

Adebayor is Spurs' top scorer with three Premier League goals in four appearances, and he also has two assists to his name. But boss Harry Redknapp played down the chances of buying the striker.

Redknapp said: "If Emmanuel maintains his current form I would love to keep him but his wages are going to be a major stumbling block, that's for sure.

"I have no idea how much we are paying towards his wages at the moment as the chairman [Daniel Levy] deals with those issues but I suspect they are massively subsidised by City.

"The only way we can realistically get a deal done is if Emmanuel is prepared to take a substantial pay-cut and put his football before money."

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Ronaldo: Portugal playing to win in Denmark

Winning is all that counts for Portugal when they take on Denmark in Copenhagen on Tuesday night, according to Cristiano Ronaldo.

Ronaldo will lead his men out at the Parken Stadion knowing adraw will be enough to take them to Poland and Ukraine for next summer'sEuropean Championships.

Paulo Bento's side currently lead Group H by virtue of their home win over the Danes earlier in the campaign, so a point in Copenhagen will see them avoid next month's play-offs.

Norway, three points shy of the duo, could make things even more complex should they inflict a heavy defeaton Cyprus - but only if Portugal lose to Denmark. Norway would still require a goal difference swing of nine goals to finish second.

Ronaldo is looking to forget playing for a draw to earn a place in the finals - get a win.

"Portugal are going to Denmark to win the game, that's our thinking,'' he told Spanish newspaper AS. "We know there are conditions but we want to win the tie for direct entry (to Euro 2012).

"That is always the mentality of the team and I am sure we will make it a good match.''

Ronaldo did not score any of Portugal's five goals as they beat Iceland 5-3 on Friday proving their attack is working well heading to Denmark. Their defence is not polished at the moment, though, and Ronaldo believes the absence of club team-mates Pepe and Fabio Coentrao is a contributing factor, as well as the self-imposed exile of Ricardo Carvalho.

"We very much need Pepe,'' the 26-year-old added. "But those who are here now are the most important. We can talk about Pepe, but Ricardo Carvalho did not come to Portugal.''

The first qualifying fixture between the two ended in a 3-1 win for Portugal, but Denmark midfielder Christian Eriksen believes a sound historical record could stand his side in good stead.

They avoided defeat in their three meetings prior to that Lisbon reverse, and Eriksen told UEFA.com: "It would be better to avoid the play-offs, but we can only avoid them by getting a win. We've done well against Portugal before, though.''

While Norway have a mathematical chance of making it into second spot, manager Egil Olsen has accepted his side will not be boarding the plane next summer.

"It's possible to say I'm disappointed, but I wasn't exactly optimistic beforehand,'' the former Wimbledon manager told Norwegian newspaper Aftenposten.

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Walcott taking nothing for granted on Euro spot

England winger Theo Walcott knows not to be complacent over a place in the squad for Euro 2012 after his World Cup disappointment.

GettyImagesTheo Walcott has 19 England caps

• Capello warning for Rooney
• Neville: Ban shifts focus
• Redknapp: Ban could be costly
• Euro 2012: Who can qualify

Walcott was an integral part of the England squad which qualified for last summer's finals in South Africa, scoring a hat-trick away in Croatia, but a drop in form in the months leading up to the tournament meant he was left out.

While Walcott is back in manager Fabio Capello's plans, he knows he will have to continue to play well to make the plane to Poland and Ukraine. With Aaron Lennon due to return from injury, Adam Johnson able to play on the right and the upcoming presence of Arsenal team-mate Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain there is competition for squad places.

Walcott said: "You've got to play well for your club and the manager will pick players on form, so I'm not going to look too far ahead after what happened to me a couple of years ago. He plays players in form and you always get a chance to play and show what you can do and hopefully we can take that into the tournament when it comes to it.

"Firstly I'm going to be concentrating on Arsenal after the poor start we've had. But it's great to have qualified with England - and the fans were great in Montenegro even when we went to 2-2. This shows what it means to them.

"There are mixed emotions because they scored that last goal - and them going through as well is great for them. But we are happy. We just needed to get a draw. We didn't go out to get a draw. We wanted to win the game but maybe there was a lapse of concentration in the first half.

"It was great to go 2-0 up but we were quite sloppy in the last 10 minutes of the first half and they made it 2-1. But we got the draw and that is the most important thing."

England now have two friendlies lined up, against Spain in November and then Netherlands in February, as long as the Dutch are not drawn in England's group for the finals. Both will be played at Wembley, where England have struggled of late.

"When we play away, a lot of teams have got to come at us so it gives so much more space for the likes of me, Ashley (Young) and Stewie (Downing). It makes our job so much easier but, with our pace and the young, experienced players we've got now, it is a good balance.

"The friendlies are always good to try players out and when you play against these top teams, who were in the World Cup final, it is going to test us. In friendlies, the result doesn't matter but we want to win.

"It doesn't matter who we play but the manager will get bits out of players he hasn't seen before and it is nice for those on the fringe to show what they can do. But you don't know if the starting line-up in Montenegro will play against Spain and Holland. Injuries might happen.

"When it comes to it, I'll focus on that - but my first priority now is Arsenal."

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West Ham to make formal approach for Tevez

West Ham plan a make an official bid to take Carlos Tevez on loan from Manchester City for three months this week.

GettyImagesMan City fans call for Carlos Tevez's sale during the recent win at Blackburn

• Maradona no to Tevez
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The Hammers will say they can put Tevez in the shop window pending a permanent transfer in January, and take the £50 million-rated striker out of manager Roberto Mancini's sight.

City need to keep Tevez match fit and sharp to persuade clubs to take Tevez off their hands without having to accept a cut-price deal, and a three-month loan would suit both clubs.

There has been interest in the £250,000-a-week striker, but so far suitors have been put off as the total cost of any deal means the player is just too expensive to buy.

Wealthy Middle East club Al-Wasl, now managed by Diego Maradona, have denied they have an interest.

But Corinthians, who desperately wanted him in the summer, could be back in the race despite declaring last week that they were out of the reckoning.

Corinthians director of football Edu told Sky Sports News "It was quite difficult to sign him because at the time it was shortly before our transfer window. 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 ¬40 million 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.

"I spoke to him [Tevez's agent Kia Joorabchian] at the [Leaders in Football ] congress, but very formal not really about Tevez yet - we are quite friendly and have a good relationship but not about Tevez yet.

"It is a lot of things to think about. Carlos Tevez has a lot of things around him."

In the meantime, the Championship side from East London are serious about bringing Tevez back to Upon Park until he is sold by City.

After an initial telephone call immediately after Tevez was suspended for two weeks for his alleged refusal to come off the bench during the 2-0 defeat in Munich in the Champions League, the Hammers are preparing to make a more official bid once City have announced the outcome of their internal enquiry - expected on Monday or Tuesday.

A City insider told ESPNsoccernet: "We did receive a call from West Ham, but there was no formal offer."

And a Hammers source confirmed: "We are serious about Tevez, but there is nothing more for us to say at the moment."

Tevez saved West Ham from relegation in 2007 and now they see the Argentine as the man to inspire their bid to reclaim a spot in the Premier League.

However, there is only a remote chance that the Hammers can succeed as they want City to continue to pay the bulk of the player's salary. West Ham concede their chances are slim, but they plan to give it a go.

• Harry Harris' new book, 19: The Remarkable Story of United's League Championship Record, is available now.

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Cleverley signs new contract with Man United

Manchester United midfielder Tom Cleverley has signed a new contract which will keep him at the club until the summer of 2015.

GettyImagesTom Cleverley: The latest young United star

Cleverley made his first competitive start for the Premier League champions in August's win at West Brom, two days after his 22nd birthday. Such has been the academy graduate's impact, he has already won a call-up to England's senior squad, though he has yet to play for Fabio Capello's side.

The England Under-21 international's football education came in the form of loan spells at Leicester City, where he won the League One title, Watford and Wigan Athletic before being welcomed into the United first-team squad this season.

He is currently out injured with ligament damage to his foot suffered in the 5-0 win at Bolton Wanderers a month ago, but is in contention to return on Saturday in the Premier League clash with rivals Liverpool.

"Tom is one of the brightest prospects in the English game,'' United boss Sir Alex Ferguson said. "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.

"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."

Cleverley said: "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.''

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Rooney to learn Euro 2012 fate on Thursday

England striker Wayne Rooney will discover the cost of his red card in Montenegro after a UEFA meeting on Thursday.

GettyImagesWayne Rooney saw red for this kick

• Capello to leave out Rooney
• Neville: Ban shifts focus, ref hope
• Redknapp: Ban could be costly
• The race to Euro 2012: Who can qualify

UEFA's Disciplinary and Control Body will sit to discuss issues from the last set of qualifiers. They will also hear outstanding complaints, including the claims of racist abuse levelled at Bulgaria by England.

But the crucial outcome, for the Three Lions at least, will be the ban handed to Wayne Rooney for his dismissal in their final qualifier last Friday. Rooney petulantly kicked out at Montenegro's Miodrag Dzudovic.

With no more competitive games for England before next summer's finals in Ukraine and Poland, UEFA has already confirmed Rooney will automatically miss the opening group game.

UEFA will now decide whether or not Rooney should be banned for any additional games, with violent conduct usually leading to a two-game ban.

Russia's Andrei Arshavin was sent off against Andorra in their last qualifier for Euro 2008, in a very similar incident to that of Rooney as he lashed out at an opponent. Arshavin was suspended for two matches but still left a lasting imprint on the tournament when available for selection in the last group game.

England boss Fabio Capello has stated that Wayne Rooney will not start any of England friendlies in the run-up to Euro 2012 as he tries to find a system that works without the Manchester United man.

Referee Wolfgang Stark, who sent Rooney off, had words of support for the Manchester United star over the weekend, believing that his reaction to the dismissal and calm exit from the pitch may help his cause and limit his ban to a single match. But Rooney would be exceptionally lucky to escape with that punishment.

The draw for the play-offs also takes place at midday BST on Thursday, which will controversially be seeded once again. The pots for the final draw, on December 2, will also be known.

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Henderson hopes to keep place in team

Liverpool's £20 million man Jordan Henderson does not fear the return of Steven Gerrard to the Reds' squad, insisting he is hoping to be in the team to face Manchester United on Saturday.

GettyImagesJordan Henderson moved from Sunderland

• Reina: Arsenal move blocked

Henderson has experienced a mixed start to his Anfield career, scoring a fine goal at home to Bolton before later finding himself benched for the recent Merseyside derby at Everton. The England youngster is still trying to establish himself as a first-team regular, and his case will not be helped by fit-again Gerrard.

Gerrard, the Liverpool captain, has made three substitute appearances following a long-term groin injury and is eyeing a start against United. With Stewart Downing, Charlie Adam and Lucas Leiva likely to be certainties to face the champions at Anfield, Henderson faces a fight for a place in the midfield - not only against Gerrard but also Dirk Kuyt.

Kenny Dalglish opted to use Kuyt in the recent derby win over Everton, and the Liverpool manager has largely chosen to stick with a winning formula this season. Gerrard's recovery makes Henderson's involvement even less likely, but the former Sunderland man does not see himself becoming marginalised.

"Hopefully not. I'm not really worried about that, it's part and parcel of football," Henderson told Sky Sports News. "Obviously Stevie's a massive player for Liverpool and he's going to play as many games as he can.

"But I need to concentrate on what I do, work hard in training, and when given the opportunity I need to take it and stay in the team.

"The derby's a massive game and every player wants to play in it, so of course it was disappointing not to start [at Everton], but the team did brilliantly and I was fortunate enough to come on. Hopefully I'll start the next one."

Liverpool can move within three points of United with victory at Anfield. Last season's corresponding fixture saw the Reds triumph 3-1 thanks to a Dirk Kuyt hat-trick.

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Beleaguered Steve Bruce vows to fight on

Sunderland manager Steve Bruce is determined to turn around the club's form as rumours grow that he is set to become the first managerial casualty of the Premier League season.

PA PhotosIs time running out for Steve Bruce?

• Quinn: Bruce will be given time
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Sunderland are currently 16th in the table, a point outside the relegation zone, and have won just one game from their first seven. They also exited the Carling Cup in the second round with a 1-0 defeat at Championship side Brighton & Hove Albion.

Bruce's position was weakened last week as acolyte Niall Quinn stepped down from his role as chariman to "spearhead international development on behalf of the club". Owner Ellis Short has now assumed that position but it is thought he is not as supportive of the manager.

The odds on Bruce to be the first sacking of the campaign shortened over the weekend following press speculation regarding his future, with some bookmakers he is now the favourite for the chop ahead of Blackburn boss Steve Kean. Reports claimed Martin O'Neill was being lined up to replace Bruce.

Bruce's task does not get much easier on Sunday when he takes his side to take on Arsenal, another club with many problems. That is followed by what already looks like a significant fixture at the foot of the table when Sunderland visit Bolton.

Bruce 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.

"I knew it wouldn't be easy, but I'm not going to put up the white flag now. I knew what it would be like and the challenge is still the same for me - can we get a team together that mount a sustained challenge in the top 10?''

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SPL: Thriller Tayside, Motherwell go top

Gavin Gunning marked a late equaliser Dundee United snatched a 3-3 draw in a dramatic Tayside derby with St Johnstone.

PA photosGavin Gunning grabbed a late equaliser to Dundee United

In a remarkable 90 minutes that see-sawed a way and then autre it, the visitors have a first minute lead through Barry Douglas and has continued to dominate the opening of exchanges, but controversial sentence of Francisco Sandaza introduced Saints in the game in the 34th minute and Liam Craig reader and then a second of former United Sandaza striker gave the secondary goals is home to three in 12 minutes and an advantage of two goals at the break.

Comfortable as were times but United then watched Perth men ensured a moving climax with two goals in four minutes to save a point. Substitute Gary Mackay-Steven gives hope of mandarins in the 79th minute and defender Gunning filled sensational turning around from a header eight minutes from the end.

Michael Higdon reported a double Motherwell returned to the top of the table with an impressive 4-2 win ending Dunfermlineunbeaten start to the season.

Visitors completely capitulated Dunfermline in a first half in which Higdon and Jamie Murphy, via a deviation, all net two. Chris Humphrey added a third before the Pars finally a game of it in the last quarter replacing David Graham shot deflected in off teammate Joe Cardle.

Cardle gave the hosts the unlikely prospect of recovery of a point as it reported a goal deflected on the break in the final stage, but Higdon grabbed his second in a minute.

Objective end of Graeme Shinnie against Kilmarnock lifted Inverness in the bottom of the table as they won 2-1.

Low back-up in the 89th minute strike received points in the Tulloch Caledonian Stadium, Inverness giving their first victory of the campaign. The hosts took the lead in the 26th minute when a header for powered home a close - range Gregory Tade before Dean Shiels leveled with a curling 25 yard shot nine minutes later.

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The League: Soldier shines to sink Santander

Roberto Soldado struck twice in the last minutes of three at the Mestalla to complement his hat and give a dramatic 4-3 victory at Racing Santander to Valencia in their first match in Primera Division.

PA photosRoberto Soldado dropped a flier with a match won a hat-trick for Valencia

Soldado had put Los Che advance in the first minute, but il said in his own net six minutes more later things the level and Lautaro Acosta added a second goal for the races in the 14th minute.

Adrian Gonzalez was 3-1 for the visitors 10 minutes after the break, but Adil Rami reduced the deficit almost immediately and end brace of Soldado settled the topsy-turvy encounter for the hosts.

Earlier Saturday, Real Sociedad won the first game of the new season 2-1 with an impressive performance at Sporting Gijon.

Imanol Agirretxe marked with finishes two-headed neat on each side of the break to give the side Basque, a 2-0 lead, but Sporting responded almost immediately by the sentence of Miguel De Las Cuevas.

Sociedad had Carlos Martinez then expelled to concede the spot-kick and has come under strong pressure in the last quarter, but held the three points.

At the kick-off end, a header 88th minute Ruben Castro won promoted Real Betis Seville 1-0 victory at first-order boys new companions Granada replacing that Jonathan Pereira had capitalised on a mistake by Defender Manuel Lucena.

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Lugano set to swap Fenerbahce for MTP

Fenerbahce have revealed that the captain of the Uruguay Diego Lugano left the club to join the Ligue 1 side MTP.

GettyImagesDiego Lugano has completed his five year-association with Turkish giants Fenerbahce

Lugano, 30, was the Turkish outfit for five years, but moves on with the club involved in a scandal of match fixing, who saw their retired from the League this season, Champions this week.

MTP are yet to confirm the signing, but a statement on the official website of Fenerbahce, said: "We thank for his efforts with the club to this day and I wish him good luck."

The Declaration was then rent the centre-back for his "energy without end on the field" and his "brave heart".

Lugano, who also played for the South American giants Nacional Sao Paulo, has led his country to third place in last year's World Cup and a record 15 titile of the Copa America in July then.

MTP - backed by wealthy landowners of the Qatar Investment Authority - spent more than 80 million € this summer on the players of the ilk of Javier Pastore, Jeremy Menez and Kevin Gameiro to the French capital.

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Ligue 1: Lyon Montpellier's 100% record end

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Lyon fin record de 100 % de Montpellieren Ligue 1 avec une victoire 2-1 , qui eux s'installe dans un point de leurs adversaires.

Photos de PAJeremy Pied (r) célèbre son deuxième but crucial de notation de Lyon avec son coéquipier Maxime Gonalonss

Mi-temps substitut Miralem Pjanic mis les hôtes avance trois minutes après son introduction et Jeremy Pied, un autre remplacement, a 2-0 après 78 minutes, peu de temps après Montpellier avait été réduit à 10 hommes après le rejet de Younes Belhanda.

Henri Bedimo de moitié le déficit tardif sur mais Montpellier n'a pas pu trouver l'égalisation.

Auxerre a affirmé leur première victoire de la saison, 4-1, avec un affichage élégant contre nouvellement promu Ajaccio. Le côté maison dominée par des procédures et le tableau de bord reflète celle avec Alain Traore, marquant deux fois et Kamel Chafni et Anthony Le Tallec également sur la cible.

Araujo Ilan rapporta une consolation fin, mais il n'était pas assez pour Ajaccio, qui n'ont pas encore gagner depuis leur retour dans l'élite.

Valenciennes' mauvais début de saison a continué comme deux buts dans les dernières minutes 10 vu Bordeaux viennent de l'arrière pour gagner arraché un 2-1 - leur première victoire de la campagne.

VA regardé ensemble pour ramasser leur première victoire lorsque Mathieu Dossevi mis leur avance dans la première moitié au Stade du Hainaut mais les choses de deux suppléants tournés autour pour Les Girondins, Abdou Traore égalisation neuf minutes de temps et puis Anthony Modeste maison sondage dans le temps.

Nice attaquant Xavier Pentecôte avait un objectif de la seconde période controversé prononcé hors contre Brest comme attente des lutteurs du Sud pour une victoire continue suite à dessiner le 0-0.

Un but de dernière minute de Yann Jouffre a gagné à Lorient leur deuxième victoire de la saison - 2-1 - au détriment de Nancy. Djamal Bakar a donné aux visiteurs un premier semestre plomb mais Lorient empilés sur la pression dans les 15 dernières minutes et ont été récompensés par l'égalisation de Arnold Mvuemba avant Jouffre arraché les points, via une légère flexion au large de son coéquipier Kevin Monnet-Pacquet.

Substitut Brice Jovial inscrit l'unique but que Dijon a remporté une bataille de deux côtés nouvellement promu à Evian.

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Chelsea sign Davila of the Chivas

Chelsea have announced the signing of the Mexico sub - 20 international Ulises Davila of Chivas of Guadalajara.

GettyImagesUlises Davila followed former Chivas teammate Javier Hernandez in Premier League

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The Blues have already recruited young Oriol Romeu, Romelu Lukaku and Thibaut Courtois this summer and following with the capture of 20 years offensive Davila.

The diminutive Mexican signed a five year contract with the Stamford Bridge club, with the Blues technical director Michael Emenalo pleased to confirm the capture.

"Ulises has been a player identified very many clubs and has made great progress in tournaments, in that we saw him play the last," Emenalo said official website of Chelsea. "We are delighted to be able to get this done transaction."

"Chivas is a club of superb with a solid reputation in the development of player and football in the world, and we are confident Ulises will be able to continue its rapid development to become a player in first team Chelsea.". "

Boss of Chelsea Andre Villas-Boas hope Davila can have a similar impact to the last player to arrive in the Championship of Chivas Guadalajara - attacking Manchester United Javier Hernandez.

Catch action of each Championship game of Barclays on your mobile for free on the app of ESPN goals improved (United Kingdom only).

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Bundesliga: Gomez raises the Bayern to victory

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Bayern Munich croise une victoire 3-0 à l'aise sur Kaiserslautern pour déplacer le haut de la Bundesliga avant de la pause internationale.

GettyImagesMario Gomez célèbre après avoir ouvert le score pour le Bayern Munich

Mario Gomez en sacs un hat-trick dans une rencontre unilatérale à le Betzenberg comme le Bayern démontre combien ils ont changé depuis leur dernière visite ici un an jour pour jour, quand ils étaient battus 2-0.

L'Allemagne international, qui a marqué l'unique but du Bayern dans la victoire 1-0 sur Zurich en milieu de semaine, a ouvert le score à la peine de spot à la 37e minute avant d'ajouter un second au début de la seconde moitié. Il finit les Red Devils à la 69e minute de prendre le Bayern en haut de la table pour la première fois depuis mai 2010.

Bayer Leverkusen et Le Borussia Dortmund ont terminant le jeu avec 10 hommes qu'ils partageaient le butin dans un vif match nul à la BayArena. Michal Kadlec de Leverkusen fut le premier à voir rouge à la 64e minute et il a été suivi dans le vestiaire par Mario Gotze 13 minutes plus tard, mais aucun camp score dans un vivement-combattu pouvait rencontrer.

Cologne a marqué deux fois dans les finales de six minutes à tourner un thriller de sept buts en leur faveur et à réclamer leur première victoire de la saison comme ils ont gagné 4-3 à Hambourg.

Mladen Petric mis Hambourg à venir d'une pénalité après 11 minutes mais Cologne a pris les devants grâce à Adil Chihi (21) et Milivoje Novakovic (49). Le jeu a continué de swing de ci de là comme Hambourg restauré leur avantage avec deux buts dans la victoire de trois minutes de Slobodan Rajkovic (59) et fils Heung-min (62), mais Christian Clemens (84) et Kevin McKenna (88) garantis de Cologne.

Freiburg recueilli leur première victoire de la saison de Bundesliga jeune comme ils ont battu Wolfsburg 3-0.

Papiss Demba Cissé a échoué au score en peut-être son dernier match pour le club, mais Oliver Barth ont tiré dans la première de Freiburg après 30 minutes et il était 2-0 quand Erik Jendrisek nettes 10 minutes plus tard. Cedrick Makiadi poussé l'avantage à 3-0 après 59 minutes.

Objectif de fin de Markus Rosenberg a donné Au Werder de Brême une victoire 2-1 à Hoffenheim pour continuer leur forte début de saison.

Roberto Firmino donna à Hoffenheim le plomb après que 37 minutes Marko Arnautovic égalisation d'une minute plus tard et Rosenberg a marqué le gagnant à la 83e minute.

Nuremberg a vu au large de FC Augsburg 1-0 , gracieuseté d'à un but de Alexander Esswein à la 76e minute.

More about → Bundesliga: Gomez raises the Bayern to victory

The Netherlands Championship: Young double sends high Twente

Luuk de Jong scored twice on his 21st birthday to lead FC Twente back at the top of the Eredivisie as last season's finalist beat VVV Venlo 4-1 to leapfrog Ajax.

After seeing Ajax move to the top with a 4-1 victory: Arnhem Friday, Twente speed matched their rivals to maintain their record of 100% as objectives of Bryan Ruiz and Marc Janko completed strikes De Jong.

Ahmed Musa claimed an individual goal late to restore parity to 1-1, but it lasted only two minutes before De Jong notches, leaving VVV without a victory this season and Twente with boost after their disappointment in the midweek Champions League.

Heracles Almelo saw their invincibility start ended with a 2-1 defeat to NEC Nijmegen. Peter Bosz side came into this fixture with a victory and two draws to their name, but found themselves two goals up in eight minutes at De Goffert with Lasse Schone and Nick van der Velden hit the mark.

Heracles threatened a return when Glynor Plet reduced arrears at the end of the first half, but was also good that she received for the visitors.

Slow startup of the NAC Bredafor the new season of the Netherlands Championship continued as they lost 2-1 at RKC Waalwijk. Evander Sno and Adil Auassar put the hosts in control with Anthony Lurling grabbing a late consolation for NAC. D2 champions last season have taken seven points from their first four fixtures.

FC Utrecht came from a goal towards the low to claim a 3-1 victory on Roda JC. Mads Junker put the visitors ahead after 38 minutes but Thomas Oar bladed six minutes later, before the second period Rodney Sneijder strikes and Jacob Mulenga sealed the points for the hosts.

More about → The Netherlands Championship: Young double sends high Twente

Field: Top of page of Brighton as run Saints completed

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Southampton perdu leur invincibilité début de la saison de championnat comme ils sont tombés à une défaite 3-2 contre Leicester au roi Power Stadium.

Côté de Nigel Adkins avait commencé la vie dans le deuxième niveau du football anglais de façon impressionnante, mais se sont retrouvés en bas 2-0 à l'intérieur de 22 minutes. Darius Vassell et Richie Wellens aidé à mettre le sourire retour sur le gestionnaire d'under-pressure Sven-Goran Eriksson, avec les renards après avoir passé trois matches sans victoire depuis le jour de l'ouverture.

Un en-tête de Dan Harding remettre des Saints dans le jeu après 28 minutes avant un but de l'attaquant Rickie Lambert restauré coussin de deux buts de Leicester sur le coup de la mi-temps. Cependant, Southampton sort fortement après que le redémarrage et David Connolly réduit le déficit à la 53e minute.

Défaite des saints a vu ses collègue côté promue Brighton aller retour en haut de la table après ils ont battu Peterborough 2-0. Le Posh, qui eux-mêmes étaient également en Ligue 1 la saison dernière, alla derrière la 10e minute à un effort de Craig Noone. Récente signature Ryan Harley s'installe la cravate à la 64e minute beaucoup au grand plaisir de la majorité des supporters du stade Amex.

Ses collègues reproche Derby County est tombée à une défaite à domicile 2-1 à Burnley, avec Charlie Austin au filet de chaque côté du but de Theo Robinson.

Marvin Emnes poursuit son impressionnante début de saison par la remise de Middlesbrough le plomb contre Coventry, bien que Lukas Jutkiewicz a marqué une égalisation tardive pour les visiteurs que le jeu termine à 1-1.

Blackpool également jeté à trois points à Crystal Palace, avec Glenn Murray égalisation à la 77e minute après l'ouvreur de Alex Baptiste premier semestre dans une autre 1-1 nul.

Hull a obtenu une victoire 1-0 à domicile contre la lecture grâce à une superbe frappe de Robbie Brady, tandis que Millwall et Barnsley jouent un match nul.

Bristol City ailier Albert Adomah a vu son effort au premier semestre annihilé dans South Yorkshire comme James Hayter gagné Doncaster un 1-1 dessiner et leur premier point de la saison.

Ipswich a surmonté 10-homme Leeds 2-1 à Portman Road grâce à des buts de fin de Jason Scotland et Keith Andrews. Ross McCormack a brisé l'impasse pour les visiteurs, mais congédiement de White Aidy modifie l'équilibre du jeu.

Enfin, dans un autre nul 1-1, substitut Nwankwo Kanu a sauvé un point pour Portsmouth après que Andrew Taylor avait donné à Cardiff le plomb à Fratton Park.

More about → Field: Top of page of Brighton as run Saints completed

Carling Cup: Leeds Man Utd in draw field

Old rivals Leeds United in the third round of the Carling Cup will face Manchester United.

GettyImagesJermaine Beckford scored as Leeds United beat Manchester United in the FA Cup in 2009-2010.

On Saturday, Premier Sir Alex Ferguson champions League draw were pitted side of Grayson Championship againstSimon.

Ferguson will seek to avenge the defeat of the FA Cup 1-0 at the same base side there at Old Trafford in the Leeds were in League One.

Brighton, following their fine start to life in the Championship, have drawn athome in Liverpool in the stage of Amex.

Incumbent Birmingham, enter the competition at this stage because the theirinvolvement in the Europa League, begin the defence of the trophy that they wonagainst Arsenal with a trip to meet big - spending of the Etihad Stadium FA Cityat in Manchester Cup winners.

During this time, Chelsea, will face his rivals of West London Fulham.

Third Round - to be played the week of September 19

Cardiff City	v	Leicester City
Nottingham Forest	v	Newcastle United
Wolverhampton Wanderers	v	Millwall
Manchester City	v	Birmingham City
Chelsea	v	Fulham
Blackburn Rovers	v	Leyton Orient/Bristol Rovers
Aldershot/Carlisle United	v	Rochdale
City of Swindon/Southampton	v	Charlton Athletic/Preston North End
Arsenal	v	City of Shrewsbury
Everton	v	West Bromwich Albion
Burnley	v	MK donations
Palace of Crystal/Wigan Athletic	v	Middlesbrough
Leeds United	v	Manchester United
Aston Villa	v	Bolton Wanderers
Brighton & Hove Albion	v	Liverpool
Stoke City	v	Tottenham Hotspur

More about → Carling Cup: Leeds Man Utd in draw field

Blues await Drogba

Andre Villas-Boas confirmed That Didier Drogba Chelsea boss was taken to hospital after suffering a sickening injury victory 3-1 against the Blues Norwich Saturday.

PA photosDidier Drogba falls unconsicous after a collision with John Ruddy

• Palmer: praise not points for Norwich

Drogba, 31, has been eliminated during a collision with Canaries goalkeeper John Ruddy and was taken on a stretcher with what appeared to be a breathing assistance after the treatment of seven minutes at Stamford Bridge.

Côte d'Ivoire was transported to the Hospital of the game but was released later with Chelsea confirming their official website that the club of the medical staff would need to "continue to monitor" Côte d'Ivoire in the coming days.

Chelsea and Norwich were locked at 1-1 when Drogba left field but after Ruddy was later expelled for a tackle on Requena, side Villas-Boas was going to win the game.

"We are waiting just for complete reviews on his concussion and hope that nothing is wrong," Villas-Boas said. ".It shows signs of recovery for us good to be a little more quiet. »

Villas-Boas had no problem with challenge of Ruddy, but the incident, said: "it seemed quite unpleasant." He lost consciousness on the ground completely.

"I must be very, very grateful, not only to my players, but for the Norwich players and my medical staff to react quickly to a potentially dangerous situation". ".

More about → Blues await Drogba

Deal of Man new town Richards pens

Micah Richards has agreed a new four year contract with Manchester City.

GettyImagesMicah Richards has committed his future to Manchester City

The sky is the limit for Kompany
• Mancini expects Tevez stay

Richards, 23, has become a key from Roberto Mancini and his agent revealed today he has hired his future in the long term for the club.

Levack, "Micah is pleased to have signed this new order and ensure its future," said skysports.com. "Manchester City is the place that he wants to be as it is his home."

"It's really a fantastic success that Micah is the only player left for Manchester City, which has gone through the Academy and is a regular first team."

"Manchester City is an exciting and ambitious club to and a club where Micah knows that it can reach all its ambitions in the game.". Roberto Mancini has been wonderful with him, have fans and all the members of the club, and Micah was delighted that too much to commit his future to them. »

Catch action of each Championship game of Barclays on your mobile for free on the app of ESPN goals improved (United Kingdom only).

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Father of Obi Mikel left after removal

The father removed of John Obi Mikel to Chelsea was released after his kidnappers were located by the police in Nigeria.

GettyImagesJohn Obi Mikel: Advised to stay in England, while police examined the question of the capture of his father

Michael Obi had been abducted on August 12 at his home in his work in the Centre of the Nigerian city of Jos, but it was found on Monday in the North of Kano city. Police arrested suspects in the abduction.

Agents of his son, SEM, issued a statement on Twitter. "SEM are pleased to confirm that earlier today more Michael Obi called his family to inform them that he had been released by his captors," it read.

"SEM waited until now to disclose this information to ensure that Michael was safe." John Obi Mikel would like to thank everyone in Nigeria, family & friends, Chelsea FC fans & its agents for their total support during this terrible period. A complete statement of the situation will be published by SEM tomorrow morning. »

OBI Senior told the BBC that he had been kidnapped at Jos transferred to Kano. "I am very stressed," said.

BBC reporter Yusuf Ibrahim Yakasai stated that Michael Obi face showed signs of beatings endured during his ordeal.

Mikel has continued to play for Chelsea in the disappearance of his father, appearing in the first League of Barclays of Blues opener at Stoke before theirhome 2-1 victory for West Brom on Saturday.

More about → Father of Obi Mikel left after removal

Happy Forlan in Atletico

Striker of Atletico Madrid Diego Forlan insists he is happy at the Vicente Calderon and claimed reports of an offer from Inter Milan are wide brand.

PA Photos / PeterByrneDiego Forlan has been prolific for the Rojiblancos since his arrival in Villarreal in 2007

Forlan, 32, has been linked strongly before moving to San Siro recently and was quoted by the Gazzetta dello Sport last week by saying that he had an offer, even if these comments were quickly dismissed as manufacturing by his agent.

The international Uruguay, which won the Golden Ball for best player of the World Cup last year in South Africa, left for two years on his contract with the Atletico and says that he intends to honor his current contract.

"Today, I have a contract with the Atletico and I am happy to be at the club," Forlan said AS. "I have a two year contract and I do not what will happen."My plan is here and try to perform the contract, but it's hard to say. »

Asked if he had received an offer from Inter, he replied "none" and says "there is nothing concrete" on the table.

However, it has done little to diffuse the speculation linking to Inter, talk about the appeal of a move to champions of Europe 2010.

"Nobody will be doubt that Inter are one of the biggest clubs in Europe and the world, but I have a two year contract and I can't imagine anything". ".

But Forlan, who was the top scorer of the Division of the Primera in 2008-2009 and scored two goals in the final against Fulham Atletico won the Europa League the following season, retains the same condition than ever for the club.

"Mr. person has told me directly that I am for sale," he said. "I have no grudge against a person. If I go, I will continue with the same enthusiasm as always. And if I go, I will be happy, that I did all that was possible with this team.

"All the reports are just rumors." I did not have anything that either the club say, "you will". I have the same feeling I had since my arrival. I do what I love to make goals and to take the club as high as possible. »

More about → Happy Forlan in Atletico

Gasperini: We will face after the departure of the Eto'o

Inter Milan coach Gian Piero Gasperini is confident the early departure of Samuel Eto'o at the Russian club Anji Makhachkala weakens not on his side.

GettyImagesSamuel Eto'o is headed for the Russia

ETO ' O is set to complete his permanent transfer of Anzhiin the next few days. ETO ' O will become paid player in the world, areported earn EUR 30 million (26.2 million to £) each season.

"Anji frameworks should arrive in Milan this evening or tomorrow morning," agent of saidEto'o Claudio Vigorelli to the Gazzetta dello Sport. ".They will meet withInter. They need to reach an agreement with Inter as they have already reached adeal with us (the player).

"Eto ' O is in Milan awaiting developments." The agreement is to be completed and we will see in the next few hours. I anticipate any hurdles. »

Gasperini recognized the quality of Eto'o but backed his team to thrive even fee were to seal passage to the Russia.

He said the official website of the club: "we know how a good theplayer but I think it's a team that can also be configured differently, of course, it is the strength of your attack that determines how the goodyour team is."

"There are other valuable players in the team and we'll start building againwith this group of champions." We will try to find the players who are out of atthe time and we may be able to strengthen a little too much.

Certainly when we a little short in some areas, includingmidfield, the games given how much we will have to play.

"But the club knows very well what to do." Still ten days left ago transfer before the window closes. »

ETO ' O scored 37 goals season last for Inter and was a key member of the theNerazzurri team that won the Serie A, the Champions League and Coppa Italia treblein 2009-10 campaign.

The 30-year-old is under contract with Inter until in June 2014 and sign expected three-year deal with Anji.

More about → Gasperini: We will face after the departure of the Eto'o

Milan in talks on Aquilani

Owner of AC Milan Silvio Berlusconi confirmed that the Italian club is in talks with Liverpool midfielder Alberto aquilanisigned.

Photos of PAAlberto Aquilani is set to seal away from Anfield

• Aquilani near Milan move

Aquilani, 27, spent last season on loan at the Juventus of Turin, where he benefited from a recovery after a torrid year with Liverpool, but the clubs were unable to agree a fee and he spent pre-season back on Merseyside.

Well that Manager Kenny dalglish has said repeatedly that it would be pleased to include of Aquilani in his team for the upcoming season, Liverpool have concluded negotiations with Juve, Fiorentina and Milan now over its sale.

Owner of Milan Berlusconi said: "we are negotiating for Aquilani.I like him much - it is an interesting player. I spoke on this subject with Galliani [Vice-President Adriano] and [Massimiliano] Allegri. We will see what happens. »

Officer of the player, Franco Zavaglia, said Ilsussidiario.net: "the parties are working on this case, and between Wednesday and Thursday, everything will be decided."

Aquilani has not appeared in a competitive game for Liverpool under Dalglish.

More about → Milan in talks on Aquilani

MTP: Berbatov not to sell

Big-spending Paris Saint Germain were said by Manchester United that dimitar berbatov is not for sale after making an investigation on the Bulgarian attacker.

Photos of PADimitar Berbatov remains determined to prove his worth by Sir Alex Ferguson

• Nani taunt on 'intelligent' goal
• Preview: Man Utd v Tottenham

New owners of the MTP, Qatar Investment Authority, éclaboussé a club record 42 million euros for the Palermo Javier pastore playmaker earlier this month and are looking to add other signatures marquee as they rebuild the team.

Future of Berbatov at Old Trafford was the subject of speculation, as it seems to have slipped behind Javier hernandez and Danny welbeck as the partner privileged of Wayne rooney, but Manager Sir Alex ferguson has pushed an approach for the 30 years of age.

PSG sporting Director Leonardo said France Football: "I had Ferguson on the phone, but he told me that he was counting on Berbatov and that it was not for sale."

It had been suggested that United States would be prepared to leave Berbatov to go forward because it is the only player at Old Trafford with less than a year left on his current contract, other than the 37 years Ryan giggs.

However, the telegraph that the United States could trigger an option to contract for a year to prevent 30.75 million club of £ record signing leaving on a free transfer next summer.

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Kyrgiakos leaves Liverpool

The transfer company Liverpool summer continues with the new VfL Wolfsburg confirmed the signing of Liverpool sotirios kyrgiakos on a two year contract.

GettyImagesSotiris Kyrgiakos: on his way to Anfield after two years of Merseyside

The Greek international, signed in the summer 2009 by Rafael Benitez into something stop-gap for 1.5 million signing of £, eventually making 49 appearances for the Reds.

He left the scene Anfield despite having signed a new contract earlier this year, but which has come to a clause in his previous contract and should replace linked to Simon kjaer Roma in the defence of Wolfsburg.

Kyrgiakos departure leaves Kenny Dalglish short coverage in central defence if Martin Kelly can jump from the rear. Liverpool have been linked by beating Gary cahill, Ryan shawcross and Scott Dann during this transfer window.

More about → Kyrgiakos leaves Liverpool

Assou-Ekotto: Tottenham target of APUs

Left rear Tottenham benoit assou-ekotto said that Spurs attempt to pile the pressure on Manchester United goalkeeper David De gea at Old Trafford, Monday night.

GettyImagesAssou-Ekotto battles Dimitar Berbatov

• Overview of man Utd v Spurs
• Mata kills off Modric deal?
• Harry: sale Modric helps Spurs

Gea finds itself under the spotlight, after a start hesitating to life as a replacement of Edwin van der Sar. The goalkeeper of £ 17.8 million committed a fault of the edin dzekogoal in the shock of the Community Shield with Manchester City at Wembley, and then allowed Shane Longshot to squirming him during Premier League victory at West Brom.

Fortunately for the Spanish, United have him out of trouble twice, but Monday of Gea must play a game of competition from his house for the first time fans.

Spurs are yet to play a Premier League game after their first game against Everton was cancelled, but they played some outstanding football in the middle of week 5-0 hearts Basinger. Assou-Ekotto confirmed his teammates are confident, and they will do their best to expose the fragility of Gea.

Left-back, "We will try to take advantage of these problems, that he had," said Sun. "When you come to England you have to learn quickly how to play us here."

"It is never easy in the first six months."

Monday game also saw the first game at home Ashley young, which shot to the winner of own goals of United against West Brom, but Assou-Ekotto is not too impressed with the winger. The Cameroon wishes to Spurs to go out and play the game as a normal game.

"We used to play against [youth] when he was at Aston Villa and we did agree then against him," said Assou-Ekotto. "It will be even against Manchester United - he is not better merely because he changed clubs."

"Young and Nani are two good players, but they are still only human." I really don't care who I play against Manchester United. »

More about → Assou-Ekotto: Tottenham target of APUs

Wolves warn clubs off the coast of Doyle

Wolves boss mick mccarthy has clearly will be firmly turn down bid to kevin doyle, suggesting it would be "rip at the heart of"of the club to lose a player also at this stage of the season."

GettyImagesKevin Doyle was linked with groups such as Arsenal and Juventus in the summer

• On The Move: transfer blog

Doyle, who scored in the victory at home 2-0 Sunday Fulham beginning of 100% of the Wanderers who maintained for the new Premier League campaign - has been linked to away from Molineux as the transfer window draws to a close.

But in regards to McCarthy, trading should have already stopped, and he has absolutely no intention of entertaining offers for the striker from the Republic of Ireland.

"I think that the end of the transfer window must coincide with the start of the season," McCarthy says. ".Well, we have started, but can you imagine what would do if someone takes one of my best players away - not only for me, but all other players at the club? It would be just rip heart out of it.

"Someone like (signing of the summer) Roger johnson came here with the conviction that we keep all our players - Jamie O'Hara is the same.". I do not think that it will happen, but I could be telling them to get lost. »

The Juventus, Arsenal and Liverpool are reported to focus on Doyle, who insists that speculation will not affect his game.

Speaking to the Express and Star after the Sunday game, Doyle said: "he gave me at all - it's funny. It was the best bound to these two teams, I guess. I'll just things. The Manager and the guys have a laugh at me. »

More about → Wolves warn clubs off the coast of Doyle

Serie A players reaffirm the threat of strike

Association of Italian players (AIC) have warned that they follow their Spanish counterparts by hitting at least that a new collective contract is signed before the start of the season in Serie A this weekend.

GettyImagesThe start of the Serie A season may suffer the same fate as its equivalent in Spain

• Spanish strike continue
• La Liga fixtures postponed by radiation

Last week, the weekend opening of the lighting of the Liga was suspended after negotiations between players and clubs concerning wage guarantees it is collapsed.

And Serie A could be moving in the same direction, after representatives of all 20 clubs in Serie met Monday to reaffirm their request for the League to sign a new contract.

"We reiterate our position," Chairman of the association of players Damiano Tommasi said. "If the contract is signed, we will play the Saturday or Sunday. Otherwise, we will remain at home. It is time that on Wednesday, the League will meet. »

The AIC has stated that the League has still not signed an agreement with the players of the year last summer, intense negotiations in which strikes were twice avoided narrowly. An old collective agreement expired at the end of the 2009-10 and negotiations for its renewal continues throughout last season.

The AIC has been particularly unhappy with clubs tried to force the players to move in the last year of their contracts.

More about → Serie A players reaffirm the threat of strike

Fabregas partitions for Barca in romp Napoli

CESC Fabregas scored his first goal since his return to Barcelona in friendly victory of his team 5-0 to Napoli.

GettyImagesCESC Fabregas celebrates his first goal in a Barcelona shirt - slight return

The former captain of Arsenal, who completed his move to his childhood sidelast week, was appointed to a strong start to the annual game of Gamper Trophyexhibition XI.

And complete early after the onset of substitute for the last week in Spanish Super Cup, midfielder field course himself to the crowd byopening Nou Camp and the score in the 25th minute.

In field colleague Seydou Keita was 2-0 before the replacedFabregas of Lionel Messi and he contributed to a hat-trick of 15 minutes.

More about → Fabregas partitions for Barca in romp Napoli

Prem Lge: Battle of rear Chelsea, Arsenal suffer

Chelsea is a goal for West bromdefeated2-1 at home, as they have kept the pressure at the top of the Premier League table.

GettyImagesBen Foster look on powerless as Nicola Anelka creeps

• Premier League Gallery
• Lomas: frugal is an aberration
• Jolly: mounted QPK challenge

The Blues have been against it from the beginning, as Shane Long stole the ball from Alex on the median line and passed to beat goalkeeper stand-in Hilario in the fourth minute. Chelsea has offered little in attack and Salomon Kalou were the Manager Andre Villas-Boas anger as he was taken off the coast of the 34th minute.

After the break, the Blues are a different team and does not have to wait long as Nicolas Anelka took advantage of some sloppy defending hammering a shot deflected past Ben Foster. With approximately ten minutes to do so, substitute Florent Malouda then stolen as dos net the winner after a good cross from Jose Bosingwa.

Arrival of Peter Odemwingie sparked plastic bags to the action and the Nigerian was guilty of a terrible Miss as a long cross him six-yards out, but his volley found the hands of the Hilario and the Blues hung on victory.

A week of test for Arsène Wenger ends on a sour note as Liverpool have been exhausted winners 2-0 against Arsenal at the Emirates.

Depleted gunners, who lost Cesc Fabregas at Barcelona Monday, Emmanuel Frimpong had sent offshore to debut first full League.

Wenger was born a surprise prior to launch, appointing Samir Nasri in the starting XI despite its apparently imminent move to Manchester City, while Carl Jenkinson and Emmanuel Frimpong also came in. Luis Suarez was a failure to surprise Liverpool, with Kenny Dalglish opting to play Stewart Downing, right next to Andy Carroll.

Already stretched team of Arsenal was still exhausted after only 14 minutes when centre back Laurent Koscielny limped off to hang back, bringing Ignasi Miquel in the melee. And six minutes later, with Arsenal still annoyed by the disturbance, came the best chance of the half, as Andy Carroll increased the pole to respond to the Downing cross - only to see Wojciech Szczesny claw his effort by far.

Well that Liverpool dominated possession for most of the opening period, Arsenal finished strongly that the interval was preparing and Frimpong forced Pepe Reina a low save with a stinging drive from 30 metres before Nasri has led to the defence and shot just wide.

After a sterile opening in the second half, Andrei Arshavin outmuscled Enrique in the area on 68 minutes before squaring the ball to Robin van Persie, who, six yards, scuffed a straight line on the knees of the Reina.

The momentum swung way to Liverpool when Frimpong was sent off the coast of six minutes later, showed young a second yellow after overthrew Lucas with a clumsy challenge. And the men of Dalglish took full advantage of their numerical superiority on 78 minutes when Miquel a clearance rebounded off the coast of Ramsey chest before looping on Szczesny and at the back of the net.

Liverpool doubled their lead in time, Raul Meireles is clearly the goal before squaring the ball to Suarez, who could not close Miss.

The optimism created by busy summer Sunderland of transfers has been verified that they have lost 1-0 to Newcastle in the derby to wear-Tyne to the stadium of light.

After Joey Barton saw its efforts related to the purposes apparently blocked by the hand of Seb Larsson in the first half, Ryan Taylor assured justice was made by putting the visitors after 63 minutes, his arrow-franc fly directly in the upper corner of the net. Steve Bruce miserable afternoon ended when back Phil Bardsley was shown a second yellow for a dangerous tackle on Fabricio Coloccini in the seconds dying.

Entrusted attracted such as new Aston Villa boss Alex McLeish actions himself to a crowd of sceptical by masterminding home a 3-1 victory against blackburn rovers.

50Th Premier League goal of Gabby Agbonlahor put Villa come after 10 minutes, cutting pacey striker go right, shrug Michel Salgado and sending a strike of curling beyond Paul Robinson. Fifteen minutes later Rovers were still in the quagmire as Emile Heskey grabbed his first goal in 13 matches - and his 11th career strike against Blackburn - by drilling in a low shot from the edge of the box.

While it is under pressure for almost the entire first half, Rovers found themselves in the game a few minutes after the break, Morten Gamst Pedersen timing his run shrewdly of nod in the centre of Hoilett Junior. But the dreams of Steve Kean of an unlikely point were smashed shortly after, as Darren Bent opened his account for the season to pounce on shooting deflected Stilian Petrov and breaking on Robinson - a strike which gave a hand welcome former head of Birmingham McLeish.

QPK bounced from their opening day deaf home in Bolton by claiming a win 1-0 at home in slow-starters well-known Everton.

With the first chance that they have owned, Tommy Smith pushed the visitors in the lead with an inventive strike after 31 minutes, having taken advantage of an error in the target of the Arsenal Phil Jagielka, which the ball to Akos Buzsaky.

Everton, playing for the first time this season after a game last week to Tottenham, pressed without a point in the second half, which means Smith gave QPK, the first three points on offer recovery following of Tony Fernandes.

wigan athletic boss Roberto Martinez picked a game void 0-0 at the home of his former club, Swansea, who were grateful to Michel Vorm penalty save Ben Watson.

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Cesc: Bad tackles are normal against Madrid

Barcelona's most recent recruit, Cesc Fabregas, believes controversy and heated exchanges are a "normal" part of the intense rivalry the Catalan club shares with Real Madrid.

GettyImagesMarcelo's challenge on Cesc Fabregas sparked an ugly brawl

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Fabregas completed his long awaited move to the Camp Nou this Monday, and has already won his first piece of silverware with the club after a Lionel Messi volley in the 88th-minute helped Barca seal a 3-2 win in second leg of the Spanish Supercopa.

However, the match was marred by an ugly incident late on involving the former Arsenal skipper after Madrid's left-back Marcelo dived in dangerously on Fabregas. The Brazilian, along with team-mate Mesut Ozil, was subsequently sent from the pitch once the melee subsided, but Fabregas says it's all part of the derby experience.

"This is very competitive football, we are talking about the two best clubs in the world and every team wants to win. This is normal in football that a situation like this can happen," Fabregas said.

"It's always good to start well, with positive situations like this. I am very happy. They had just scored when I went into the pitch and I was just thinking in helping my team."

Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas also played down the injury-time incident, suggesting Fabregas made the most of the situation.

"In a match like this, there are many interests and of course a conflict can arise," said Casillas. "Marcelo committed a foul and they threw themselves to the ground, like always."

Later images revealed the sideline scuffle also involved Madrid manager Jose Mourinho and Barcelona's assistant coach Tito Vilanova. It appears that Mourinho lunges for Vilanova's head, evidently making contact with his eye, whilst the Barca man retaliated with a slap to the back of Mourinho's head.

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Mourinho unfazed as Madrid lose 'tiny little title'

Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho downplayed the importance of the Spanish Supercopa after his side went down 3-2 in the second leg at the Camp Nou on Wednesday evening.

GettyImagesReal Madrid and Barcelona come to blows once again

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Mourinho was involved in a nasty altercation with Barcelona assistant Tito Vilanova during a sideline melee which included players and officials from both clubs. The incident was sparked by a rash challenge from Marcelo on new Barcelona recruit Cesc Fabregas.

However, the 48-year-old manager says the incident, along with the Supercopa trophy itself, means little as the La Liga season looms.

"If we said we are very happy when we do not win a title we would be hypocrites," Mourinho said. "This is a tiny little title, but we are not happy to not have won it, but with the evolution of the team. We played both matches very well, we were fantastic.

"If we look at the matches [against Barcelona] of the last four months, you see there is a great balance. Many draws, one victory for us in a final and one for them today, not to mention the matches which had a story which does not deserve to be told."

Never one to shy away from controversial statements - Mourinho is currently serving a touchline ban in the UEFA Champions League for that reason - the Portuguese tactician took the opportunity after the match to take a swipe at Madrid's fierce rivals.

"From the first minute of the second half, and I will not criticise it, because there are people who do this, the ball boys hid themselves," Mourinho said. "That happens with tiny little teams when they are facing difficulties."

Meanwhile, Barcelona manager Pep Guardiola was less than amused regarding the antics of his Real Madrid counterpart.

"The images speak for themselves," Guardiola told Marca of the incident involving Mourinho and Vilanova. "We must be careful, because one day we will cause harm, not on the field butoff, and we're all a little responsible for this."

Barca star Gerard Pique also weighed into the debate, suggesting the Madrid boss is having a negative impact on the game in Spain.

"I do not talk about the brawl. But it's a shame, it is not the first time and it's always the same.

"Someone has to take action on the matter. Mourinho is destroying Spanishfootball. There is talk about the Catalans, but the problem is with Madrid. I think it's going too far. It cannot always end well. In the end this will end very badly."

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MLS: Kansas City knock down Portland Timbers

Sporting Kansas City defeated Portland Timbers 3-1 to go third in Major LeagueSoccer's Eastern Conference.

GettyImagesGraham Zusi and his team-mates celebrate

Graham Zusi was the major difference between the sides, netting after 25 and 40minutes to give his side a comfortable two-goal advantage at half-time.

Soony Saad made it three after 72 minutes before a late consolation fromChinedu Dike.

The result helped Kansas overtake Houston Dynamo, who salvaged a 1-1 draw withNew England Revolution in the dying seconds.

Ryan Cochrane put the Revolution ahead in the fourth minute and that looked tobe enough for three points until Boby Boswell scored with 90 minutes on theboard.

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Wenger: I'd spend £40m on the right players

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger hit out at the critics who claim he does not want to spend any cash, maintaining he would splash £40 million if he could find the right player.

GettyImagesArsene Wenger knows reinforcements are needed

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Wenger has landed himself a reputation for prudence by refusing to bring in players over £20 million during his Arsenal career, despite the likes of Chelsea, Manchester United, Liverpool and, of course, Manchester City raising the transfer bar.

But Wenger says that he would spend as much as he needs to get his man.

"I will pay £30 million I will even pay £40 million if I find the right players,'' he told Sky Sports News. "But it's not a question of money, it's a question of quality we find. I think I have a wrong reputation of not wanting to spend money - I do not want to spend money for average players.

''We are not frightened to spend money when we think it's right. Our fans have more reasons to be proud of this club - the values here, the way the club is run, what the club is built (upon) - than being angry with the club.

"Of course we want to deliver trophies, of course we want to win trophies, who wouldn't want (that)? But we feel we were very close last year and my regret of course is that we didn't do it but we are battling on all fronts and a bit unlucky on all fronts I think."

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