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Michezo magazetini leo...
Michezo magazetini leo...
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Rutashubanyuma
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Agger: Torres blame game unfair
15 comments »
Updated Feb 11, 2011 5:57 AM ET
Daniel Agger believes it is unfair to make Fernando Torres the scapegoat for Liverpool's poor form during the first half of the season.
Agger claims it was difficult for Torres to shine for the Reds because the entire team was off colour before his £50million move to Chelsea.
Arsenal vs. Wolverhampton
Liverpool vs. Wigan Athletic
Blackburn vs. Newcastle
West Brom vs. West Ham
Birmingham vs. Stoke City
Blackpool vs. Aston Villa
Sunderland vs. Tottenham
But he has confidence in Andy Carroll to make an impact as his replacement when fit to start playing after his £35million switch from Newcastle.
The Danish international said: "Why has Torres been so poor? That is a big question isn't it? How to explain that.
"But look at the team. We played awful and he is a part of the team so, when everything is playing well, normally he plays a lot better.
"It is the same for everybody, for me, for Stevie (Gerrard), it is the same.
"When the team are performing, when you look at every single player, they are playing better.
"But when we are losing, when everybody is on top of us, everybody is playing bad."
Agger does concede that all big name players have to show more responsibility when a team is struggling.
He said: "That is how it should be. Even here with Denmark there are some players who have to take bigger responsibility.
"It is the same in all walks of life. That is how things are. It is the same in football. We are not that difference."
Agger is hoping the Carroll and Luis Suarez can help Liverpool maintain their current momentum.
FOX SPORTS POLL
He said: "It is a big, big gap (Torres) for Andy Carroll to fill but he has shown he can score goals at the top level.
"We will have to wait until he is fit but hopefully Andy and Luis will be great signings for us because that will be another thing which will help us towards our targets."
Agger believes he is close to full sharpness now after putting injury problems behind him.
He said: "I had injuries. I have played a few games in a row now and have started getting the feeling back of playing football.
"I have been in England now for five years and I know it is a tough, demanding game.
"I think I am the first to say how annoying it is to be injured but it is a part of me so I have to adapt to that and have to give everything when I am fit."
15 comments »
Updated Feb 11, 2011 5:57 AM ET
Daniel Agger believes it is unfair to make Fernando Torres the scapegoat for Liverpool's poor form during the first half of the season.
Agger claims it was difficult for Torres to shine for the Reds because the entire team was off colour before his £50million move to Chelsea.
Sat., Feb. 12
Man United vs. Man CityArsenal vs. Wolverhampton
Liverpool vs. Wigan Athletic
Blackburn vs. Newcastle
West Brom vs. West Ham
Birmingham vs. Stoke City
Blackpool vs. Aston Villa
Sunderland vs. Tottenham
Sun., Feb. 13
Bolton vs. Everton Mon., Feb. 14
Fulham vs. Chelsea But he has confidence in Andy Carroll to make an impact as his replacement when fit to start playing after his £35million switch from Newcastle.
The Danish international said: "Why has Torres been so poor? That is a big question isn't it? How to explain that.
"But look at the team. We played awful and he is a part of the team so, when everything is playing well, normally he plays a lot better.
"It is the same for everybody, for me, for Stevie (Gerrard), it is the same.
"When the team are performing, when you look at every single player, they are playing better.
"But when we are losing, when everybody is on top of us, everybody is playing bad."
Agger does concede that all big name players have to show more responsibility when a team is struggling.
He said: "That is how it should be. Even here with Denmark there are some players who have to take bigger responsibility.
"It is the same in all walks of life. That is how things are. It is the same in football. We are not that difference."
Agger is hoping the Carroll and Luis Suarez can help Liverpool maintain their current momentum.
FOX SPORTS POLL
- Does Sunday's loss mean Chelsea's title charge is over?
- Yes, they've got no shot now
- No, it's still way too early
- It all depends on the United matches
He said: "It is a big, big gap (Torres) for Andy Carroll to fill but he has shown he can score goals at the top level.
"We will have to wait until he is fit but hopefully Andy and Luis will be great signings for us because that will be another thing which will help us towards our targets."
Agger believes he is close to full sharpness now after putting injury problems behind him.
He said: "I had injuries. I have played a few games in a row now and have started getting the feeling back of playing football.
"I have been in England now for five years and I know it is a tough, demanding game.
"I think I am the first to say how annoying it is to be injured but it is a part of me so I have to adapt to that and have to give everything when I am fit."
Rutashubanyuma
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Rio and Evans to miss derby
7 comments »
Updated Feb 11, 2011 6:18 AM ET
Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed that Manchester United defenders Rio Ferdinand and Jonny Evans will both miss Saturday's derby at Old Trafford.
Arsenal vs. Wolverhampton
Liverpool vs. Wigan Athletic
Blackburn vs. Newcastle
West Brom vs. West Ham
Birmingham vs. Stoke City
Blackpool vs. Aston Villa
Sunderland vs. Tottenham
Ferdinand has not recovered from the calf injury he sustained in the warm-up ahead of Manchester United's shock defeat at Wolves last week.
Evans played in that game but missed Northern Ireland's hammering by Scotland on Wednesday with an ankle injury and is still sidelined.
"Rio Ferdinand got a calf injury last week. He will be out for a couple of weeks," confirmed .
"Jonny Evans was injured in training with Northern Ireland. He is out so Chris Smalling will play. I am sure he will do well."
Ferdinand's absence places a doubt over his availability for the Champions League trip to Marseille on February 23.
Yet Ferguson insists the England captain's latest injury setback is not a major problem.
"It could have happened at any time," said Ferguson.
"It is not as if it is anything to do with his back. That was our main concern last year but his back has been fine.
"You have to remember Rio has been in first-team football since he was 17. It is a long time. He will pick up little strains, like a lot of players do.
"This is not a long-term thing. It is a couple of weeks."
And Ferguson is confident about Smalling's ability to handle the pressure of the biggest game of his fledgling Manchester United career.
"Chris has made excellent progress this season," said Ferguson.
"He got a bit of tightness in his back last Friday, which is why I used Jonny Evans as a substitute last week.
"We are very pleased with him. He has been outstanding since he came to the club.
"He has played a few games now. Of course, he lacks that big-game experience but in terms of the experience he has had, he has used it well and he has done well."
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7 comments »
Updated Feb 11, 2011 6:18 AM ET
Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed that Manchester United defenders Rio Ferdinand and Jonny Evans will both miss Saturday's derby at Old Trafford.
Sat., Feb. 12
Man United vs. Man CityArsenal vs. Wolverhampton
Liverpool vs. Wigan Athletic
Blackburn vs. Newcastle
West Brom vs. West Ham
Birmingham vs. Stoke City
Blackpool vs. Aston Villa
Sunderland vs. Tottenham
Sun., Feb. 13
Bolton vs. Everton Mon., Feb. 14
Fulham vs. Chelsea Ferdinand has not recovered from the calf injury he sustained in the warm-up ahead of Manchester United's shock defeat at Wolves last week.
Evans played in that game but missed Northern Ireland's hammering by Scotland on Wednesday with an ankle injury and is still sidelined.
"Rio Ferdinand got a calf injury last week. He will be out for a couple of weeks," confirmed .
"Jonny Evans was injured in training with Northern Ireland. He is out so Chris Smalling will play. I am sure he will do well."
Ferdinand's absence places a doubt over his availability for the Champions League trip to Marseille on February 23.
Yet Ferguson insists the England captain's latest injury setback is not a major problem.
"It could have happened at any time," said Ferguson.
"It is not as if it is anything to do with his back. That was our main concern last year but his back has been fine.
"You have to remember Rio has been in first-team football since he was 17. It is a long time. He will pick up little strains, like a lot of players do.
"This is not a long-term thing. It is a couple of weeks."
And Ferguson is confident about Smalling's ability to handle the pressure of the biggest game of his fledgling Manchester United career.
"Chris has made excellent progress this season," said Ferguson.
"He got a bit of tightness in his back last Friday, which is why I used Jonny Evans as a substitute last week.
"We are very pleased with him. He has been outstanding since he came to the club.
"He has played a few games now. Of course, he lacks that big-game experience but in terms of the experience he has had, he has used it well and he has done well."
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Report Abuse PhiladelphiaHotSpur
- 2/11/2011 9:17:51 AM
-
Report Abuse BluesFan7
- 2/11/2011 9:12:25 AM
-
Report Abuse Chelsea24-7
- 2/11/2011 8:50:49 AM
- Report Abuse PhiladelphiaHotSpur
- 2/11/2011 8:39:08 AM
BF7 - Probably right on Karlos passing out.......of course, that was at 4-0 w/ the game in hand and a big fat smile on his face........
Of course, he woke up to the biggest single game collapse in EPL history..........Tears flew.............Then he drops his go-to move...........Goes into hiding. GS
- Report Abuse BluesFan7
- 2/11/2011 8:04:31 AM
I doubt this will be a 0-0 game, especially with no rio, well Evans is no company either, that is a plus for united. Smalling may get chewed up, I like the kid, but he needs polishing.
- Report Abuse PhiladelphiaHotSpur
- 2/11/2011 7:14:08 AM
Missed you last weekend.............I was looking for your insight in that Arsenal / Newcastle United result.....
Yes, what pedigree w/ the first ever club to blow a 4-0 lead..............
Let me guess how your saturday went.....
G
U
T
T
E
D
-
Report Abuse karlosthejackal
- 2/11/2011 5:53:46 AM
Gaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaasp!!!
Intriguing development indeed.
Rutashubanyuma
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Dalglish: Reina going nowhere
5 comments »
Updated Feb 11, 2011 11:01 AM ET
Kenny Dalglish has rejected reports linking Pepe Reina with a Liverpool exit, and says the keeper will be at Anfield for "a long, long time".
Arsenal vs. Wolverhampton
Liverpool vs. Wigan Athletic
Blackburn vs. Newcastle
West Brom vs. West Ham
Birmingham vs. Stoke City
Blackpool vs. Aston Villa
Sunderland vs. Tottenham
Rumours intensified that Reina could leave this summer after hinting in an interview in his native Spain that he might have to consider his future if the Reds are not playing in the Champions League.
Manchester United and Arsenal have both been mentioned as possible candidates to sign the talented shot-stopper should he seek to leave Merseyside.
However, Dalglish is confident Reina will stay at Liverpool for the foreseeable future and that everyone at the club wants to return to the European football's top table.
"We have a fantastic goalkeeper and he will be here for a long, long time," said Dalglish.
"The Champions League is what everyone here wants to get to. For us it's only been a year where we've not had it and that's what we want to get back.
"It should be the same for every player, we should all be aiming for that."
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5 comments »
Updated Feb 11, 2011 11:01 AM ET
Kenny Dalglish has rejected reports linking Pepe Reina with a Liverpool exit, and says the keeper will be at Anfield for "a long, long time".
Sat., Feb. 12
Man United vs. Man CityArsenal vs. Wolverhampton
Liverpool vs. Wigan Athletic
Blackburn vs. Newcastle
West Brom vs. West Ham
Birmingham vs. Stoke City
Blackpool vs. Aston Villa
Sunderland vs. Tottenham
Sun., Feb. 13
Bolton vs. Everton Mon., Feb. 14
Fulham vs. Chelsea Rumours intensified that Reina could leave this summer after hinting in an interview in his native Spain that he might have to consider his future if the Reds are not playing in the Champions League.
Manchester United and Arsenal have both been mentioned as possible candidates to sign the talented shot-stopper should he seek to leave Merseyside.
However, Dalglish is confident Reina will stay at Liverpool for the foreseeable future and that everyone at the club wants to return to the European football's top table.
"We have a fantastic goalkeeper and he will be here for a long, long time," said Dalglish.
"The Champions League is what everyone here wants to get to. For us it's only been a year where we've not had it and that's what we want to get back.
"It should be the same for every player, we should all be aiming for that."
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Report Abuse Vince_K.
- 2/11/2011 10:06:54 AM
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Report Abuse TPink
- 2/11/2011 9:44:38 AM
Still I believe Reina will stay this summer, but not forever and will not leave because of frustration.
I also think LFC need to replace a few of their Spanish players, as the lockeroom is a bit different now for him. Maybe that explains why Maxi is still there...
- Report Abuse BluesFan7
- 2/11/2011 9:07:29 AM
- Report Abuse BluesFan7
- 2/11/2011 9:07:23 AM
- Report Abuse Vince_K.
- 2/11/2011 8:19:33 AM
just saying....
Rutashubanyuma
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Dalglish raves about red-hot Raul
Updated Feb 11, 2011 10:47 AM ET
Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish insists midfielder Raul Meireles' impressive goalscoring form of late is entirely down to the player's talent.
Arsenal vs. Wolverhampton
Liverpool vs. Wigan Athletic
Blackburn vs. Newcastle
West Brom vs. West Ham
Birmingham vs. Stoke City
Blackpool vs. Aston Villa
Sunderland vs. Tottenham
The Reds boss said he was no "tactical wizard" and the Portugal star's four goals in his last five matches were all a result of the 27-year-old's hard work.
Meireles had not found the target in his first 21 matches after joining from Porto in the summer for £11.5million but has suddenly burst into life in front of goal.
He has been deployed in an advanced midfield role, occasionally alongside captain Steven Gerrard and sometimes on his own, and has been a revelation in the last month.
"Raul has always had the ability he has shown recently," said Dalglish.
"Maybe he's settled down a little bit and is more comfortable and confident because he is playing well but there's been nothing drastic (tactically) for any of the players really.
"It is fantastic to see Raul doing so well. He has always been a talented footballer, he's always had what we are seeing now but it's been trying to get it out and it is coming out now and he's scoring goals."
Meireles has undoubtedly benefited from being given a role he is more accustomed to, having been played deeper and even wide on the right during Roy Hodgson's ill-fated six-month reign.
When Dalglish took over early last month many questioned whether a man who had not managed for more than a decade was equipped to deal with the demands of the modern game.
The 59-year-old Scot has always insisted football has not changed that much and their recent success as he has sought to return the pass-and-move philosophy prevalent during his time at the club as player and manager more than 20 years ago demonstrate as much.
However, having brought in coach Steve Clarke, Jose Mourinho's assistant at Chelsea, Dalglish has shown he is also capable of making significant tactical decisions.
In their last two matches of a four-game winning spell against Stoke and Chelsea he has fielded three centre-backs in 3-4-2-1 and 3-5-1-1 formations.
Former Reds striker Fernando Torres drew a blank on his Chelsea debut on Sunday and admitted Liverpool's formation had taken them by surprise.
Dalglish, though, played down the tactics involved.
"The system change was beneficial to us. It is about the club, about the team, and we are the most important people in our eyes," he added.
"I am not here to try to impress everyone by saying I'm a tactical wizard, I'm just here to get the best from our boys.
"It is part of our responsibility to work out how to do that and we won't do anything to confuse anyone."
Liverpool's best run of the campaign has lifted them to a season's-best sixth place in the Premier League, six points behind Chelsea in fourth.
But while Dalglish publicly played down expectations of sneaking into Champions League qualification is something, certainly privately, he has ambitions to achieve.
"It wasn't a realistic proposition last season so it is only this season we can worry about," he said. "We've won four games, so that's moving in the right direction and that's what we want to do.
"We've had four results, four shut-outs, but that doesn't earn us anything for the game against Wigan.
"We've got to build on what we've done, but that doesn't mean to say that because we've done it (improved their form) we're finished - we want to continue to do what we've been doing.
"It's much more enjoyable to be winning matches than losing them, so that's the thing that will be at the forefront of my mind.
"It's more enjoyable for everyone if we get a result."
Dalglish will make a late decision on captain Steven Gerrard, who missed England's midweek friendly win over Denmark with a groin problem.
However, 18-year-old midfielder Jonjo Shelvey has been ruled out with a knee tendon injury which will sideline him for 12 weeks.
Updated Feb 11, 2011 10:47 AM ET
Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish insists midfielder Raul Meireles' impressive goalscoring form of late is entirely down to the player's talent.
Sat., Feb. 12
Man United vs. Man CityArsenal vs. Wolverhampton
Liverpool vs. Wigan Athletic
Blackburn vs. Newcastle
West Brom vs. West Ham
Birmingham vs. Stoke City
Blackpool vs. Aston Villa
Sunderland vs. Tottenham
Sun., Feb. 13
Bolton vs. Everton Mon., Feb. 14
Fulham vs. Chelsea The Reds boss said he was no "tactical wizard" and the Portugal star's four goals in his last five matches were all a result of the 27-year-old's hard work.
Meireles had not found the target in his first 21 matches after joining from Porto in the summer for £11.5million but has suddenly burst into life in front of goal.
He has been deployed in an advanced midfield role, occasionally alongside captain Steven Gerrard and sometimes on his own, and has been a revelation in the last month.
"Raul has always had the ability he has shown recently," said Dalglish.
"Maybe he's settled down a little bit and is more comfortable and confident because he is playing well but there's been nothing drastic (tactically) for any of the players really.
"It is fantastic to see Raul doing so well. He has always been a talented footballer, he's always had what we are seeing now but it's been trying to get it out and it is coming out now and he's scoring goals."
Meireles has undoubtedly benefited from being given a role he is more accustomed to, having been played deeper and even wide on the right during Roy Hodgson's ill-fated six-month reign.
When Dalglish took over early last month many questioned whether a man who had not managed for more than a decade was equipped to deal with the demands of the modern game.
The 59-year-old Scot has always insisted football has not changed that much and their recent success as he has sought to return the pass-and-move philosophy prevalent during his time at the club as player and manager more than 20 years ago demonstrate as much.
However, having brought in coach Steve Clarke, Jose Mourinho's assistant at Chelsea, Dalglish has shown he is also capable of making significant tactical decisions.
In their last two matches of a four-game winning spell against Stoke and Chelsea he has fielded three centre-backs in 3-4-2-1 and 3-5-1-1 formations.
Former Reds striker Fernando Torres drew a blank on his Chelsea debut on Sunday and admitted Liverpool's formation had taken them by surprise.
Dalglish, though, played down the tactics involved.
"The system change was beneficial to us. It is about the club, about the team, and we are the most important people in our eyes," he added.
"I am not here to try to impress everyone by saying I'm a tactical wizard, I'm just here to get the best from our boys.
"It is part of our responsibility to work out how to do that and we won't do anything to confuse anyone."
Liverpool's best run of the campaign has lifted them to a season's-best sixth place in the Premier League, six points behind Chelsea in fourth.
But while Dalglish publicly played down expectations of sneaking into Champions League qualification is something, certainly privately, he has ambitions to achieve.
"It wasn't a realistic proposition last season so it is only this season we can worry about," he said. "We've won four games, so that's moving in the right direction and that's what we want to do.
"We've had four results, four shut-outs, but that doesn't earn us anything for the game against Wigan.
"We've got to build on what we've done, but that doesn't mean to say that because we've done it (improved their form) we're finished - we want to continue to do what we've been doing.
"It's much more enjoyable to be winning matches than losing them, so that's the thing that will be at the forefront of my mind.
"It's more enjoyable for everyone if we get a result."
Dalglish will make a late decision on captain Steven Gerrard, who missed England's midweek friendly win over Denmark with a groin problem.
However, 18-year-old midfielder Jonjo Shelvey has been ruled out with a knee tendon injury which will sideline him for 12 weeks.
Rutashubanyuma
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Mario may make bench return
Updated Feb 11, 2011 9:14 AM ET
Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli could be in line for a shock return in the derby at Old Trafford on Saturday lunchtime.
Manager Roberto Mancini is debating whether to include the 20-year-old Italian, possibly on the bench.
It would be Balotelli's first outing since December 28 when he suffered a knee injury after scoring a hat-trick against Aston Villa.
Mancini said: "I will decide if he can go on the bench. If he is not fit, maybe he will need another week.
"I have not been satisfied that has been off for four weeks but he's had a problem with his knee. Hopefully he will always be able to play the last three months of the season."
Balotelli's inclusion would strengthen City's attacking hand against their rivals.
New signing Edin Dzeko is eager to prove his worth and score his first goal in the Premier League.
Meanwhile Carlos Tevez will be looking to improve his 20-goal tally for the season against his former club after a hat-trick in the win over West Brom last week. The Brazilian Jo is also on board and ready to step in if needed.
Updated Feb 11, 2011 9:14 AM ET
Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli could be in line for a shock return in the derby at Old Trafford on Saturday lunchtime.
Manager Roberto Mancini is debating whether to include the 20-year-old Italian, possibly on the bench.
It would be Balotelli's first outing since December 28 when he suffered a knee injury after scoring a hat-trick against Aston Villa.
Mancini said: "I will decide if he can go on the bench. If he is not fit, maybe he will need another week.
"I have not been satisfied that has been off for four weeks but he's had a problem with his knee. Hopefully he will always be able to play the last three months of the season."
Balotelli's inclusion would strengthen City's attacking hand against their rivals.
New signing Edin Dzeko is eager to prove his worth and score his first goal in the Premier League.
Meanwhile Carlos Tevez will be looking to improve his 20-goal tally for the season against his former club after a hat-trick in the win over West Brom last week. The Brazilian Jo is also on board and ready to step in if needed.
Rutashubanyuma
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Gunners need to fire at Wolves
1 comments »
Updated Feb 11, 2011 9:37 AM ET
Arsenal's Premier League match against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday has assumed greater than usual importance for the Gunners following last weekend's results.
After becoming the first team in Premier League history to surrender a 4-0 lead when it drew 4-4 at Newcastle, second-place Arsenal needs three points at Emirates Stadium to keep up the pressure on leader Manchester United.
Arsenal vs. Wolverhampton
Liverpool vs. Wigan Athletic
Blackburn vs. Newcastle
West Brom vs. West Ham
Birmingham vs. Stoke City
Blackpool vs. Aston Villa
Sunderland vs. Tottenham
But the Gunners may be less sure of getting them than usual after Wolves became the first side this season to defeat United in the Premier League.
"I know a bit about Arsenal with there being some French players there," Wolves French defender Roland Zubar said. "They were very disappointed about the draw with Newcastle and having been 4-0 up it felt like a loss.
"They will want to put that right by beating us and it's their home game with the chance to show something positive to their fans."
Arsenal will be without midfielder Abou Diaby because of suspension for the second-half red card that precipitated Newcastle's late comeback.
Johan Djourou and Alex Song will have fitness tests to see if they can play for Arsenal. Song missed the Newcastle match because of a thigh problem, while Djourou was substituted in the second half because of a knee problem. France forward Samir Nasri will miss the match as he recovers from a hamstring problem.
"Samir is continuing his progress," Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger said. "It is difficult to assess. He should be fit to be competitive in one week. He is training already."
Wolves' victory over United, which tries to bounce back against visiting Manchester City in another of Saturday's eight matches, lifted the club from the bottom of the standings.
The club is still in trouble being only two points from safety but unfazed by a visit to Arsenal.
"We have beaten Manchester City, Chelsea and Manchester United," Wolves chairman Steve Morgan said. "In fact, six out of our seven Premier League wins have come against teams in the top half of the league.
"We've just got to get our heads around beating the teams in the bottom half as well. We know we can do it and have just got to prove it."
Manager Mick McCarthy is likely to pick the same team that ended United's 29-match unbeaten run, with on-loan Tottenham midfielder Jamie O'Hara set to retain his place ahead of Kevin Foley.
That victory over United completely lifted the gloom that had started to envelop the club after a series of unlucky losses.
"It's all about the next 13 games and reproducing that performance and putting enough points on the board to make us safe and building on it for next season," Morgan said. "I am still very confident."
United will again be without central defender Rio Ferdinand because of the calf strain sustained while warming up for the 2-1 defeat by Wolves, giving City and star striker Carlos Tevez real hope of improving upon a record of just one goal in five matches this season against the other teams in the top five.
But City could be without key midfielder Nigel de Jong with an ankle injury. Defender Micah Richards has recovered from a similar problem and could play, while striker Mario Balotelli may return after a four-week absence with a knee injury.
United leads second-place Arsenal by four points and third-place City by five.
Chelsea is at west London rival Fulham on Monday, giving Tottenham the chance to take fourth place for two days if it avoids defeat at Sunderland.
Also on Saturday, Stoke is at Birmingham, Newcastle is at Blackburn, Aston Villa is at Blackpool, Wigan is at Liverpool and West Ham is at West Bromwich Albion.
Bolton hosts Everton on Sunday.
1 comments »
Updated Feb 11, 2011 9:37 AM ET
Arsenal's Premier League match against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday has assumed greater than usual importance for the Gunners following last weekend's results.
After becoming the first team in Premier League history to surrender a 4-0 lead when it drew 4-4 at Newcastle, second-place Arsenal needs three points at Emirates Stadium to keep up the pressure on leader Manchester United.
Sat., Feb. 12
Man United vs. Man CityArsenal vs. Wolverhampton
Liverpool vs. Wigan Athletic
Blackburn vs. Newcastle
West Brom vs. West Ham
Birmingham vs. Stoke City
Blackpool vs. Aston Villa
Sunderland vs. Tottenham
Sun., Feb. 13
Bolton vs. Everton Mon., Feb. 14
Fulham vs. Chelsea But the Gunners may be less sure of getting them than usual after Wolves became the first side this season to defeat United in the Premier League.
"I know a bit about Arsenal with there being some French players there," Wolves French defender Roland Zubar said. "They were very disappointed about the draw with Newcastle and having been 4-0 up it felt like a loss.
"They will want to put that right by beating us and it's their home game with the chance to show something positive to their fans."
Arsenal will be without midfielder Abou Diaby because of suspension for the second-half red card that precipitated Newcastle's late comeback.
Johan Djourou and Alex Song will have fitness tests to see if they can play for Arsenal. Song missed the Newcastle match because of a thigh problem, while Djourou was substituted in the second half because of a knee problem. France forward Samir Nasri will miss the match as he recovers from a hamstring problem.
"Samir is continuing his progress," Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger said. "It is difficult to assess. He should be fit to be competitive in one week. He is training already."
Wolves' victory over United, which tries to bounce back against visiting Manchester City in another of Saturday's eight matches, lifted the club from the bottom of the standings.
The club is still in trouble being only two points from safety but unfazed by a visit to Arsenal.
"We have beaten Manchester City, Chelsea and Manchester United," Wolves chairman Steve Morgan said. "In fact, six out of our seven Premier League wins have come against teams in the top half of the league.
"We've just got to get our heads around beating the teams in the bottom half as well. We know we can do it and have just got to prove it."
Manager Mick McCarthy is likely to pick the same team that ended United's 29-match unbeaten run, with on-loan Tottenham midfielder Jamie O'Hara set to retain his place ahead of Kevin Foley.
That victory over United completely lifted the gloom that had started to envelop the club after a series of unlucky losses.
"It's all about the next 13 games and reproducing that performance and putting enough points on the board to make us safe and building on it for next season," Morgan said. "I am still very confident."
United will again be without central defender Rio Ferdinand because of the calf strain sustained while warming up for the 2-1 defeat by Wolves, giving City and star striker Carlos Tevez real hope of improving upon a record of just one goal in five matches this season against the other teams in the top five.
But City could be without key midfielder Nigel de Jong with an ankle injury. Defender Micah Richards has recovered from a similar problem and could play, while striker Mario Balotelli may return after a four-week absence with a knee injury.
United leads second-place Arsenal by four points and third-place City by five.
Chelsea is at west London rival Fulham on Monday, giving Tottenham the chance to take fourth place for two days if it avoids defeat at Sunderland.
Also on Saturday, Stoke is at Birmingham, Newcastle is at Blackburn, Aston Villa is at Blackpool, Wigan is at Liverpool and West Ham is at West Bromwich Albion.
Bolton hosts Everton on Sunday.
Rutashubanyuma
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- Sep 24, 2010
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Houllier: Young talks will wait
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Updated Feb 11, 2011 10:32 AM ET
Aston Villa boss Gerard Houllier will stick to the original plan to hold talks with Ashley Young over his future in the summer.
Young was the target of speculation last month linking him with a move to the two Manchester clubs, Liverpool and Tottenham.
Arsenal vs. Wolverhampton
Liverpool vs. Wigan Athletic
Blackburn vs. Newcastle
West Brom vs. West Ham
Birmingham vs. Stoke City
Blackpool vs. Aston Villa
Sunderland vs. Tottenham
He gave further evidence of his ability with the winner for England in the mid-week win over Denmark and operated effectively as the support striker behind Villa team-mate Darren Bent.
But Houllier will respect Young's wishes to put any meetings to one side until the summer.
The former Watford player, who joined Villa four years ago, has 18 months remaining of his current contract.
Houllier said: "Ashley said he would talk about that (his future) at the end of the season and we will respect that.
"The chairman (Randy Lerner), Paul Faulkner (chief executive) and myself said we would respect that.
"We will talk about that later on. He has got another year on his contract anyway.
"We know that some clubs could be interested in him - but he could also be interested by Aston Villa.
"The main thing is he has to focus on his game, and the games for Aston Villa until the end of the season."
Houllier was happy at the performance of Young in the role that has been filled by Wayne Rooney for his country.
He said: "I was pleased to see him take his goal because I think he needed that.
"There is a lot of competition in that role and Fabio Capello wanted to see different options.
"But I was pleased to see him play that position, particularly behind Darren."
Houllier will come face to face with Blackpool boss Ian Holloway in tomorrow's clash at Bloomfield Road for the first time since their public spat over Charlie Adam.
The former Liverpool boss insists he bears no grudges over Holloway's comments that he made the interest in Adam public.
Houllier said: "I took on board the gracious words he said on Thursday and it is water under the bridge.
"Where he is wrong is when he said we made it (the Adam interest) public. We never made it public on our side.
"It came from their side but it is finished now and we have taken other players and we are happy with the squad and that's it.
"All I can say is, Ian should have checked. Anyway, I will be happy to see him.
"He is doing a great job there and encourages his teams to play offensive football and I like that."
Striker Gabriel Agbonlahor will be available after withdrawing from the England squad for family reasons.
On-loan midfielder Michael Bradley is available after obtaining a visa while Jean Makoun has shaken off a calf injury.
0 comments »
Updated Feb 11, 2011 10:32 AM ET
Aston Villa boss Gerard Houllier will stick to the original plan to hold talks with Ashley Young over his future in the summer.
Young was the target of speculation last month linking him with a move to the two Manchester clubs, Liverpool and Tottenham.
Sat., Feb. 12
Man United vs. Man CityArsenal vs. Wolverhampton
Liverpool vs. Wigan Athletic
Blackburn vs. Newcastle
West Brom vs. West Ham
Birmingham vs. Stoke City
Blackpool vs. Aston Villa
Sunderland vs. Tottenham
Sun., Feb. 13
Bolton vs. Everton Mon., Feb. 14
Fulham vs. Chelsea He gave further evidence of his ability with the winner for England in the mid-week win over Denmark and operated effectively as the support striker behind Villa team-mate Darren Bent.
But Houllier will respect Young's wishes to put any meetings to one side until the summer.
The former Watford player, who joined Villa four years ago, has 18 months remaining of his current contract.
Houllier said: "Ashley said he would talk about that (his future) at the end of the season and we will respect that.
"The chairman (Randy Lerner), Paul Faulkner (chief executive) and myself said we would respect that.
"We will talk about that later on. He has got another year on his contract anyway.
"We know that some clubs could be interested in him - but he could also be interested by Aston Villa.
"The main thing is he has to focus on his game, and the games for Aston Villa until the end of the season."
Houllier was happy at the performance of Young in the role that has been filled by Wayne Rooney for his country.
He said: "I was pleased to see him take his goal because I think he needed that.
"There is a lot of competition in that role and Fabio Capello wanted to see different options.
"But I was pleased to see him play that position, particularly behind Darren."
Houllier will come face to face with Blackpool boss Ian Holloway in tomorrow's clash at Bloomfield Road for the first time since their public spat over Charlie Adam.
The former Liverpool boss insists he bears no grudges over Holloway's comments that he made the interest in Adam public.
Houllier said: "I took on board the gracious words he said on Thursday and it is water under the bridge.
"Where he is wrong is when he said we made it (the Adam interest) public. We never made it public on our side.
"It came from their side but it is finished now and we have taken other players and we are happy with the squad and that's it.
"All I can say is, Ian should have checked. Anyway, I will be happy to see him.
"He is doing a great job there and encourages his teams to play offensive football and I like that."
Striker Gabriel Agbonlahor will be available after withdrawing from the England squad for family reasons.
On-loan midfielder Michael Bradley is available after obtaining a visa while Jean Makoun has shaken off a calf injury.
Rutashubanyuma
JF-Expert Member
- Sep 24, 2010
- 219,468
- 911,184
- Thread starter
- #5,656
Hammers beat Spurs in Olympic race
1 comments »
Updated Feb 11, 2011 10:40 AM ET
West Ham have beaten Tottenham in the race to take over the Olympic Stadium after being announced as the preferred bidder by the OPLC.
The Olympic Park Legacy Company's choice of West Ham will see the athletics track retained inside a 60,000-capacity stadium in Stratford, east London.
Arsenal vs. Wolverhampton
Liverpool vs. Wigan Athletic
Blackburn vs. Newcastle
West Brom vs. West Ham
Birmingham vs. Stoke City
Blackpool vs. Aston Villa
Sunderland vs. Tottenham
The decision has to be ratified by the Government and London mayor Boris Johnson, but it would be a huge surprise if they did not rubber-stamp the recommendation
Johnson said: "This is a very significant step forward towards delivering the Olympic Park legacy and the Legacy Company has run a thoroughly professional and robust process.
"This milestone means we now have the prospect of a local football club and a multi-use venue capable of hosting athletics, a range of other sports and a vibrant programme of events for the local community and schools.
"I am thrilled that the Legacy Company board has arrived at a recommendation for me and my colleagues in Government to consider.
"I am confident that we will be able to respond quickly to the advice of the Legacy Company in making our decision."
In a joint statement, Culture Secretary Jeremy Hunt and Communities Secretary Eric Pickles said: "Today's recommendation by the OPLC board marks an important milestone for the future of the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and the whole of the Olympic project.
"We would like to thank Baroness Ford and all her board members for the conscientious and thorough way they have approached the decision making process.
"We will look through their recommendation in detail before coming to our own decision. We aim to make a formal announcement to Parliament shortly."
In a statement, the British Olympic Association said: "The recommendation announced today by the Olympic Park Legacy Company is a victory for athletes, for sport and, importantly, for the generations of young people who will see their lives transformed as a result of the London 2012 Olympic Games.
"We hope this recommendation will ensure the London Games will be the beginning, rather than the end, of a dynamic new era for Olympic, high performance and grassroots sport in Great Britain.
"This is also a victory for the reputation of British sport globally. When the London 2012 bid team stood before members of the International Olympic Committee in 2005 and asked for their vote, they did so with a commitment to deliver a meaningful legacy from the Olympic Games, including the retention of an athletics track inside the iconic Olympic Stadium.
"The recommendation announced today, if ultimately accepted, will be a major step forward in delivering on that promise."
Baroness Ford, chair of the OPLC, insisted the selection process had been fair and robust.
She described the decision as "the very best legacy for the stadium, cracking for the community of east London, excellent news for the UK taxpayer and very good for sport".
Ford told the news conference: "Each bidder has put an enormous amount of effort into this. We are delighted to have two robust, competitive bids.
"Our job today was to judge the merits against the five criteria we have set out from the start of the process.
"Our board has considered this really carefully and we have made a unanimous recommendation to select West Ham and the London borough of Newham as the long-term tenant for our Olympic Stadium.
"This has not been an easy decision and, despite what has been trailed in some of the newspapers, this has not been a fait accompli.
"We have taken this very seriously indeed. Both bidders were considered seriously on the merits - that's what our job was."
UK Athletics chairman Ed Warner said the decision made "commercial sense".
He told Sky Sports News: "This is a fantastic opportunity for generations to come.
"We are looking at a lease which goes on for more than 100 years.
"There is going to be football sitting side by side with athletics and a whole host of other community events at this stadium.
"It was what the legacy of the Olympics was always intended to be about.
"We have worked very hard with Newham council and with West Ham to come up with a vibrant solution that sustains the stadium.
"It's great for West Ham and really good for the sport of athletics.
"The commercials really stack up, the legacy company have taken their time to take a fine toothcomb to this bid and the Tottenham bid and they have taken a decision which is right for London, right for the Olympics and makes commercial sense."
Former Tottenham chairman Lord Sugar, who felt Spurs' bid to rebuild the stadium as a football-only venue was superior, believes in time West Ham will realise football and athletics do not mix.
Sugar told Sky News: "One bit of advice I gave to Spurs is to collect all the articles that have been written about this fiasco up until now, put them in storage and bring them out in four years' time and at least you will have the satisfaction of saying 'I told you so.'
"I wonder whether the due diligence will include an absolute cast-iron agreement with West Ham that whatever happens they must keep a running track, that will be very interesting to see if the committee do insist upon that."
Sugar admitted he has no personal issue with West Ham co-owners David Gold or David Sullivan or Hammers vice-chairman Karren Brady, who appears alongside Sugar as an adviser on BBC programme The Apprentice.
Speaking to Sky Sports News, he said: "I wish them luck. I like the two Davids and of course Karren, and good luck to them. It ain't going to work, but good luck to them."
Sugar doubted whether Spurs would launch any legal action against the decision, but was surprised at the ability of Newham Council to help finance the rival bid and called on Haringey Council to provide similar backing to Spurs in order for them to remain in north London.
Tottenham MP David Lammy was opposed to Spurs' plans to move to east London, and Sugar hopes he will now assist Tottenham in staying close to their historic roots.
He added: "What I would suggest to Tottenham is that they go back to Haringey and say to Haringey - in particular our great supporter David Lammy - 'done is done, you've got your wish, we're not moving, if you want us in Haringey, what are you going to do about it?'
"If Newham, the poorest council in the country, can cough up 40 million quid, give us a £250million, 25-year mortgage at low interest rates so that we can build a stadium in Haringey."
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1 comments »
Updated Feb 11, 2011 10:40 AM ET
West Ham have beaten Tottenham in the race to take over the Olympic Stadium after being announced as the preferred bidder by the OPLC.
The Olympic Park Legacy Company's choice of West Ham will see the athletics track retained inside a 60,000-capacity stadium in Stratford, east London.
Sat., Feb. 12
Man United vs. Man CityArsenal vs. Wolverhampton
Liverpool vs. Wigan Athletic
Blackburn vs. Newcastle
West Brom vs. West Ham
Birmingham vs. Stoke City
Blackpool vs. Aston Villa
Sunderland vs. Tottenham
Sun., Feb. 13
Bolton vs. Everton Mon., Feb. 14
Fulham vs. Chelsea The decision has to be ratified by the Government and London mayor Boris Johnson, but it would be a huge surprise if they did not rubber-stamp the recommendation
Johnson said: "This is a very significant step forward towards delivering the Olympic Park legacy and the Legacy Company has run a thoroughly professional and robust process.
"This milestone means we now have the prospect of a local football club and a multi-use venue capable of hosting athletics, a range of other sports and a vibrant programme of events for the local community and schools.
"I am thrilled that the Legacy Company board has arrived at a recommendation for me and my colleagues in Government to consider.
"I am confident that we will be able to respond quickly to the advice of the Legacy Company in making our decision."
In a joint statement, Culture Secretary Jeremy Hunt and Communities Secretary Eric Pickles said: "Today's recommendation by the OPLC board marks an important milestone for the future of the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and the whole of the Olympic project.
"We would like to thank Baroness Ford and all her board members for the conscientious and thorough way they have approached the decision making process.
"We will look through their recommendation in detail before coming to our own decision. We aim to make a formal announcement to Parliament shortly."
In a statement, the British Olympic Association said: "The recommendation announced today by the Olympic Park Legacy Company is a victory for athletes, for sport and, importantly, for the generations of young people who will see their lives transformed as a result of the London 2012 Olympic Games.
"We hope this recommendation will ensure the London Games will be the beginning, rather than the end, of a dynamic new era for Olympic, high performance and grassroots sport in Great Britain.
"This is also a victory for the reputation of British sport globally. When the London 2012 bid team stood before members of the International Olympic Committee in 2005 and asked for their vote, they did so with a commitment to deliver a meaningful legacy from the Olympic Games, including the retention of an athletics track inside the iconic Olympic Stadium.
"The recommendation announced today, if ultimately accepted, will be a major step forward in delivering on that promise."
Baroness Ford, chair of the OPLC, insisted the selection process had been fair and robust.
She described the decision as "the very best legacy for the stadium, cracking for the community of east London, excellent news for the UK taxpayer and very good for sport".
Ford told the news conference: "Each bidder has put an enormous amount of effort into this. We are delighted to have two robust, competitive bids.
"Our job today was to judge the merits against the five criteria we have set out from the start of the process.
"Our board has considered this really carefully and we have made a unanimous recommendation to select West Ham and the London borough of Newham as the long-term tenant for our Olympic Stadium.
"This has not been an easy decision and, despite what has been trailed in some of the newspapers, this has not been a fait accompli.
"We have taken this very seriously indeed. Both bidders were considered seriously on the merits - that's what our job was."
UK Athletics chairman Ed Warner said the decision made "commercial sense".
He told Sky Sports News: "This is a fantastic opportunity for generations to come.
"We are looking at a lease which goes on for more than 100 years.
"There is going to be football sitting side by side with athletics and a whole host of other community events at this stadium.
"It was what the legacy of the Olympics was always intended to be about.
"We have worked very hard with Newham council and with West Ham to come up with a vibrant solution that sustains the stadium.
"It's great for West Ham and really good for the sport of athletics.
"The commercials really stack up, the legacy company have taken their time to take a fine toothcomb to this bid and the Tottenham bid and they have taken a decision which is right for London, right for the Olympics and makes commercial sense."
Former Tottenham chairman Lord Sugar, who felt Spurs' bid to rebuild the stadium as a football-only venue was superior, believes in time West Ham will realise football and athletics do not mix.
Sugar told Sky News: "One bit of advice I gave to Spurs is to collect all the articles that have been written about this fiasco up until now, put them in storage and bring them out in four years' time and at least you will have the satisfaction of saying 'I told you so.'
"I wonder whether the due diligence will include an absolute cast-iron agreement with West Ham that whatever happens they must keep a running track, that will be very interesting to see if the committee do insist upon that."
Sugar admitted he has no personal issue with West Ham co-owners David Gold or David Sullivan or Hammers vice-chairman Karren Brady, who appears alongside Sugar as an adviser on BBC programme The Apprentice.
Speaking to Sky Sports News, he said: "I wish them luck. I like the two Davids and of course Karren, and good luck to them. It ain't going to work, but good luck to them."
Sugar doubted whether Spurs would launch any legal action against the decision, but was surprised at the ability of Newham Council to help finance the rival bid and called on Haringey Council to provide similar backing to Spurs in order for them to remain in north London.
Tottenham MP David Lammy was opposed to Spurs' plans to move to east London, and Sugar hopes he will now assist Tottenham in staying close to their historic roots.
He added: "What I would suggest to Tottenham is that they go back to Haringey and say to Haringey - in particular our great supporter David Lammy - 'done is done, you've got your wish, we're not moving, if you want us in Haringey, what are you going to do about it?'
"If Newham, the poorest council in the country, can cough up 40 million quid, give us a £250million, 25-year mortgage at low interest rates so that we can build a stadium in Haringey."
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Report Abuse Arsenal_8
- 2/11/2011 10:24:19 AM
Rutashubanyuma
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Hodgson takes reins for Baggies
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Updated Feb 11, 2011 11:03 AM ET
Premier League strugglers West Brom have confirmed the appointment of former Liverpool boss Roy Hodgson as new head coach until June 2012.
The 63-year-old, who parted company with Liverpool five weeks ago after an ill-fated six-month stint at Anfield, succeeds Roberto di Matteo in the Albion hot-seat.
Arsenal vs. Wolverhampton
Liverpool vs. Wigan Athletic
Blackburn vs. Newcastle
West Brom vs. West Ham
Birmingham vs. Stoke City
Blackpool vs. Aston Villa
Sunderland vs. Tottenham
Di Matteo was relieved of his duties and placed on gardening leave on Sunday following a 3-0 defeat to Manchester City - the Baggies' 13th defeat in 18 games in all competitions.
Last weekend's defeat left Albion only two points clear of the Premier League relegation zone.
First-team coach Michael Appleton was handed the reins on a caretaker basis while a replacement was sought, and will remain in charge for Saturday's game against fellow strugglers West Ham.
A club statement read: "West Bromwich Albion are delighted to announce they have appointed Roy Hodgson as the club's new head coach.
"The 63-year-old former Inter Milan, Switzerland, Fulham and Liverpool boss has this morning committed himself to the club until June 2012.
"Hodgson was voted manager of the year by the League Managers' Association last season after guiding Fulham to the Europa League final.
"Michael Appleton, who was appointed caretaker head coach on Sunday after Roberto Di Matteo was relieved of his duties, will remain in charge for the West Ham game.
"The club are now channelling all of their efforts into supporting Appleton, his assistants Keith Downing and Dean Kiely and the players as they prepare for tomorrow's vital game."
Hodgson's appointment comes just over a month after his departure from Anfield - and he will not have to wait long to face his former club, with Kenny Dalglish's Reds due at The Hawthorns on April 2.
Liverpool's owners New England Sports Ventures put an end to Hodgson's miserable spell on Merseyside on January 8 and immediately installed club legend Dalglish to take over in the interim.
Although the Reds' statement at the time said Hodgson's departure was by mutual consent there is no doubt the club's American owners pulled the trigger - especially as less than a fortnight ago earlier the manager insisted he had no intention of resigning.
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2 comments »
Updated Feb 11, 2011 11:03 AM ET
Premier League strugglers West Brom have confirmed the appointment of former Liverpool boss Roy Hodgson as new head coach until June 2012.
The 63-year-old, who parted company with Liverpool five weeks ago after an ill-fated six-month stint at Anfield, succeeds Roberto di Matteo in the Albion hot-seat.
Sat., Feb. 12
Man United vs. Man CityArsenal vs. Wolverhampton
Liverpool vs. Wigan Athletic
Blackburn vs. Newcastle
West Brom vs. West Ham
Birmingham vs. Stoke City
Blackpool vs. Aston Villa
Sunderland vs. Tottenham
Sun., Feb. 13
Bolton vs. Everton Mon., Feb. 14
Fulham vs. Chelsea Di Matteo was relieved of his duties and placed on gardening leave on Sunday following a 3-0 defeat to Manchester City - the Baggies' 13th defeat in 18 games in all competitions.
Last weekend's defeat left Albion only two points clear of the Premier League relegation zone.
First-team coach Michael Appleton was handed the reins on a caretaker basis while a replacement was sought, and will remain in charge for Saturday's game against fellow strugglers West Ham.
A club statement read: "West Bromwich Albion are delighted to announce they have appointed Roy Hodgson as the club's new head coach.
"The 63-year-old former Inter Milan, Switzerland, Fulham and Liverpool boss has this morning committed himself to the club until June 2012.
"Hodgson was voted manager of the year by the League Managers' Association last season after guiding Fulham to the Europa League final.
"Michael Appleton, who was appointed caretaker head coach on Sunday after Roberto Di Matteo was relieved of his duties, will remain in charge for the West Ham game.
"The club are now channelling all of their efforts into supporting Appleton, his assistants Keith Downing and Dean Kiely and the players as they prepare for tomorrow's vital game."
Hodgson's appointment comes just over a month after his departure from Anfield - and he will not have to wait long to face his former club, with Kenny Dalglish's Reds due at The Hawthorns on April 2.
Liverpool's owners New England Sports Ventures put an end to Hodgson's miserable spell on Merseyside on January 8 and immediately installed club legend Dalglish to take over in the interim.
Although the Reds' statement at the time said Hodgson's departure was by mutual consent there is no doubt the club's American owners pulled the trigger - especially as less than a fortnight ago earlier the manager insisted he had no intention of resigning.
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- Report Abuse TPink
- 2/11/2011 9:39:29 AM
This is a better fit for Roy. DiMatteo should still be coaching, though. Hope he finds a good post soon.
Maybe Chelsea? lol
- Report Abuse BluesFan7
- 2/11/2011 9:03:33 AM
Rutashubanyuma
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Fergie not fussed over Trap talk
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Updated Feb 11, 2011 10:03 AM ET
Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has refused to get involved in a war of words with Giovanni Trapattoni over Darron Gibson's future.
The Derry-born star excelled for Republic of Ireland in midweek, scoring a fine goal in their 3-0 win over Wales in Dublin on Tuesday evening.
Arsenal vs. Wolverhampton
Liverpool vs. Wigan Athletic
Blackburn vs. Newcastle
West Brom vs. West Ham
Birmingham vs. Stoke City
Blackpool vs. Aston Villa
Sunderland vs. Tottenham
It prompted Trapattoni to repeat his call for Gibson to look elsewhere as he struggles to make an impact at Old Trafford.
So far this season, Gibson has made just 12 appearances in all competitions, and started only three Premier League games.
The Italian has said similar things before, which prompted Gibson to claim he would prefer to make a limited contribution at United than play more games at a lesser club.
Not one normally to encourage other managers to speak about his players, Ferguson might be expected to respond to Trapattoni's latest musings.
However, ahead of Saturday's Premier League encounter with Manchester City, when Gibson may struggle even to make the bench, Ferguson has stayed out of the argument.
"I don't know in what context he said it," said Ferguson.
"The media today can exaggerate anything now.
"It may have been a simple message for Darron. Who knows?
"I only picked up the headline of it yesterday and didn't really bother about the content.
"I know Trapattoni. He is a sensible, experienced man. I don't really give much credence to it. I don't think he would say it to cause mischief."
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Updated Feb 11, 2011 10:03 AM ET
Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has refused to get involved in a war of words with Giovanni Trapattoni over Darron Gibson's future.
The Derry-born star excelled for Republic of Ireland in midweek, scoring a fine goal in their 3-0 win over Wales in Dublin on Tuesday evening.
Sat., Feb. 12
Man United vs. Man CityArsenal vs. Wolverhampton
Liverpool vs. Wigan Athletic
Blackburn vs. Newcastle
West Brom vs. West Ham
Birmingham vs. Stoke City
Blackpool vs. Aston Villa
Sunderland vs. Tottenham
Sun., Feb. 13
Bolton vs. Everton Mon., Feb. 14
Fulham vs. Chelsea It prompted Trapattoni to repeat his call for Gibson to look elsewhere as he struggles to make an impact at Old Trafford.
So far this season, Gibson has made just 12 appearances in all competitions, and started only three Premier League games.
The Italian has said similar things before, which prompted Gibson to claim he would prefer to make a limited contribution at United than play more games at a lesser club.
Not one normally to encourage other managers to speak about his players, Ferguson might be expected to respond to Trapattoni's latest musings.
However, ahead of Saturday's Premier League encounter with Manchester City, when Gibson may struggle even to make the bench, Ferguson has stayed out of the argument.
"I don't know in what context he said it," said Ferguson.
"The media today can exaggerate anything now.
"It may have been a simple message for Darron. Who knows?
"I only picked up the headline of it yesterday and didn't really bother about the content.
"I know Trapattoni. He is a sensible, experienced man. I don't really give much credence to it. I don't think he would say it to cause mischief."
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Rutashubanyuma
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- Sep 24, 2010
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Bruce unhappy with Capello claim
Updated Feb 11, 2011 10:10 AM ET
Sunderland manager Steve Bruce has hit back at suggestions Darren Bent's move to Aston Villa has aided his England cause.
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The 27-year-old striker, who completed a £24million switch to Villa Park last month, scored his second senior international goal in Wednesday night's 2-1 friendly victory in Denmark.
He later revealed national manager Fabio Capello had told him the transfer had helped his England chances, a claim which did not go down well with Bruce, the man who paid an initial £10million to take him to Wearside from Tottenham during the summer of 2009.
The Black Cats boss said: "That's a frustration for us all and it is hugely disrespectful if he has said those sort of things.
"Darren Bent scored 24 [Premier League] goals for us and played an unbelievable season, and yet didn't go to the World Cup, so I find that a harsh statement.
"The big problem with all of that is the geography of where we are. It's very difficult to come and watch any people at Sunderland, especially on their own patch.
"It doesn't happen very often. Usually managers of international teams are watching us away from home, and sometimes that's a bit difficult for the players as much as anything else."
Updated Feb 11, 2011 10:10 AM ET
Sunderland manager Steve Bruce has hit back at suggestions Darren Bent's move to Aston Villa has aided his England cause.
Sat., Feb. 12
Man United vs. Man CityArsenal vs. Wolverhampton
Liverpool vs. Wigan Athletic
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Sunderland vs. Tottenham
Sun., Feb. 13
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Fulham vs. Chelsea The 27-year-old striker, who completed a £24million switch to Villa Park last month, scored his second senior international goal in Wednesday night's 2-1 friendly victory in Denmark.
He later revealed national manager Fabio Capello had told him the transfer had helped his England chances, a claim which did not go down well with Bruce, the man who paid an initial £10million to take him to Wearside from Tottenham during the summer of 2009.
The Black Cats boss said: "That's a frustration for us all and it is hugely disrespectful if he has said those sort of things.
"Darren Bent scored 24 [Premier League] goals for us and played an unbelievable season, and yet didn't go to the World Cup, so I find that a harsh statement.
"The big problem with all of that is the geography of where we are. It's very difficult to come and watch any people at Sunderland, especially on their own patch.
"It doesn't happen very often. Usually managers of international teams are watching us away from home, and sometimes that's a bit difficult for the players as much as anything else."
Rutashubanyuma
JF-Expert Member
- Sep 24, 2010
- 219,468
- 911,184
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- #5,660
Anderson hoping for Hulk arrival
20 comments »
Updated Feb 10, 2011 5:52 AM ET
Manchester United midfielder Anderson admits he would love to play with Porto striker Hulk in the Premier League, saying: "He has quality."
Anderson left Hulk's current club in 2007 to join the Red Devils and the 22-year-old is keen for his Brazilian colleague to follow suit.
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"He has quality, would suit English football and I think he is good enough to do well at a big club," said the United midfielder.
"If it was my decision then I would sign him but Sir Alex Ferguson signs the players and his knowledge would mean he knows all about the player."
Hulk has been linked with a move to the Premier League in the last 12 months, with many of England's leading sides reported to be monitoring the powerful 24-year-old.
Manchester City are said to be strong admirers of the £20million rated centre-forward, while London duo Chelsea and Arsenal are also believed to have expressed an interest.
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20 comments »
Updated Feb 10, 2011 5:52 AM ET
Manchester United midfielder Anderson admits he would love to play with Porto striker Hulk in the Premier League, saying: "He has quality."
Anderson left Hulk's current club in 2007 to join the Red Devils and the 22-year-old is keen for his Brazilian colleague to follow suit.
TRANSFER SPECIALKeep up with all the biggest moves around the globe with our 2011 January transfer gallery.
"He has quality, would suit English football and I think he is good enough to do well at a big club," said the United midfielder.
"If it was my decision then I would sign him but Sir Alex Ferguson signs the players and his knowledge would mean he knows all about the player."
Hulk has been linked with a move to the Premier League in the last 12 months, with many of England's leading sides reported to be monitoring the powerful 24-year-old.
Manchester City are said to be strong admirers of the £20million rated centre-forward, while London duo Chelsea and Arsenal are also believed to have expressed an interest.
PRINT RSS Member Comments
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Report Abuse BRAZZ
- 2/11/2011 7:32:35 AM
KingGeorge
Saying Neymar has an attitude is an under statement.
- Report Abuse karlosthejackal
- 2/10/2011 11:49:14 PM
LOL...Charlie Adams!?!?
Surely the EPL will now be trembling at the potentcy of the Spurs midfield.
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Report Abuse RedWhiteAndOrange
- 2/10/2011 6:28:18 PM
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Report Abuse SpidermanItalia
- 2/10/2011 6:10:26 PM
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Report Abuse ytkills
- 2/10/2011 3:58:28 PM
- Report Abuse PhiladelphiaHotSpur
- 2/10/2011 11:50:18 AM
- Report Abuse PhiladelphiaHotSpur
- 2/10/2011 11:48:46 AM
How in the world are you going to buy all four of those players ??
Keep dreaming........
PS.........
Bale isnt going anywhere next year whether we make CL or not........Spurs will be making some move this summer to add reinforcements to an already potent attack which includes Bale. GS
- Report Abuse BrassMonkey
- 2/10/2011 10:54:15 AM
My favorite options:
GK: Reina or Given
CAM: Snijder (or give Cleverly a chance)
LB/LW: Bale
ST: Hulk or Huntelaar (I know he has been a bust but he just LOOKS like a United target man to me)
I love Adam's set pieces and corner delivery, but I'm not sure that he's good enough otherwise. If we need a free-kick specialist, we could take Grandpa Becks back on loan for free...
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Report Abuse OscarMadison1000
- 2/10/2011 10:16:00 AM
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Report Abuse Stevel024
- 2/10/2011 9:52:00 AM
Report Abuse
RedDevilz
o 2/10/2011 6:29:28 AM
A recommendation from anderson? Thats like getting a recommendation of best poster from youassume.
My personal opinion, hulk is not what we're looking for.
lol
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