Sport

JORGINHO IN LONDON TO DISCUSS ARSENAL MOVE

Serie A midfielder spends a few days in London to discuss potential Arsenal transfer, but Fiorentina continue to monitor situation closely.

Arsenal and Fiorentina are considering signing Hellas Verona midfielder Jorginho after being impressed by the Brazilian’s early season form for the newly promoted Serie A side. Yet to be called up by Brazil – or Italy, for whom he also holds a passport – the 21 year-old took advantage of the international break to visit London, where he has been for the last few days.

Italian publication Tutto Mercato claim that Jorginho held informal talks with Arsenal over a transfer, as his stock continues to grow in Verona.

Hellas Verona do not have a huge amount of money, with Jorginho perhaps their only valuable asset to sell, and they are already cashing in, with many rumours over the summer linking him to Liverpool.

THE CURIOUS CASE OF KAGAWA AND MOYES

Between Shinji Kagawa and Juan Mata, it is hard, as a Premier League fan, not to feel cheated out of the spectacle when they are omitted. Both are appointment-to-view players but, while Chelsea at least boast half a dozen of similar quality in the Spaniard's position, David Moyes's continued omission of Kagawa actively limits his options. It is a self-stymying decision – so why does it keep being made?

The Japan international is in the squad and expected to start in United's Capital One Cup face-off with Liverpool on Wednesday but when it really mattered, in the Manchester derby, he remained on the bench. Throughout the Red Devils' wretched performance, Moyes chose to introduce only one substitute – Tom Cleverley – rather than unleash Kagawa. This despite his fine 70-minute performance against Bayer Leverkusen and, though facing an imperious defensive unit, a criminal lack of subtlety or work ethic in their opponents' half. That the manager later spoke of being pleased to have prevented further damage in the second half indicates a fear of further embarrassment and, therefore, that introducing Kagawa might have prompted it.

The official line being briefed by United is that they do not want to rush the midfielder back after his effort over the summer at the Confederations Cup. But Danny Welbeck started the derby, having only trained full-contact for the first time on Friday after a knee injury. Should the England youngster be worried about how much his club care for his fitness by comparison? The suspicion is that Moyes is not yet sure how to use Kagawa. The 24-year-old is unlike any player whom the Scot ever managed at Everton and, with the new manager admitting that he is still getting used to his squad, he appears unwilling to deviate from his tried and tested methods in his difficult bedding-in period. Either that or he simply does not fancy him. That United ended up signing Marouane Fellaini should not let their pursuit of Thiago and Cesc Fabregas over the summer be forgotten. With the Belgian now confirmed to have been bought to sit deep, the Red Devils presumably remain interested in an attacking midfielder, a fact that is not lost on the Kagawa camp. His representatives were dismayed by the club's public pursuits over such direct competitors, with talks demanded in early September about his lack of game time, while the #freeshinji campaign has not gone unnoticed.

Borussia Dortmund fans have been calling for their side to re-sign the Japan star and both Jurgen Klopp and Michael Zorc have gone on record to confirm that overtures had been made this summer. Kagawa's camp expects them to be back next year and Goal Germany's Stefan Doring would not be surprised by a return. "I consider a comeback in January absolutely possible," he says. "A structure like the deal for Nuri Sahin, who came back on loan from Real Madrid with Dortmund given the option to buy after 18 months, would make sense. For that to happen, though, Kagawa would need to still be struggling for a place by then. "From a sporting point of view, his return would be a win for Dortmund, no doubt about it. Right now, BVB are having to deal with several injuries and Kagawa coming back would open up several options. "It would also compensate for next summer's departure of Robert Lewandowski to Bayern Munich. Marco Reus could move into attack, with a variable midfield behind him. "There has been contact - the relationship between the club and their former player never stopped - but I am sure he did not want to just give up in England after only one year."

Indeed, Kagawa is unlikely to want to bail out if there is a possibility that he can still force his way into Moyes's thinking. Already a hugely popular figure with the Old Trafford crowd despite an injury-hit first season, Ashley Young's form at the least should demand that he be given the opportunity even by default. The fact that he trebled his salary in moving from Dortmund will also be an incentive to stay. There will certainly not be any Wayne Rooney-style politicking for an exit. As expected by those on the training ground, the midfielder is keeping his head down and getting on with his job. Quotes were widely reported from a mixed zone after a September international of Kagawa beseeching the press to "please ask David Moyes why I'm not in the side" – but, as the Japanese media were quick to insist, it was an unfortunate translation. The United star is quiet and respectful, simply deferring questions in an ironic attempt to avoid kicking up a fuss. Manchester derby humiliation was painful proof that Moyes has yet to grow into the huge stage on which he now finds himself, and perhaps Kagawa's absence thus far has been informed by his desire to work with elements that he finds most familiar in order to find his feet. The pursuit of Fellaini and Leighton Baines suggests as much. But it is no coincidence that the most threatening United have looked this season was against Leverkusen, with Kagawa's guile and craft linking midfield and attack. Moyes should commit to the unknown and trust his man before he makes the mistake of letting such a talent slip back whence he came.

ARSENAL MONITOR ROONEY’S CASE

Arsenal have been encouraged to bid for Wayne Rooney in January.

The Premier League leaders have been told via informal conversations that the striker still wants to leave Manchester United despite describing himself this week as "happy" and "settled" at the club. Goal revealed on Friday that England’s talisman is refusing to open talks on a new United contract and is preparing to press ahead with plans to leave Old Trafford.

Intriguingly, Rooney has already begun exploring the possibility of a sensational transfer in January, by which time there will be only 18 months remaining on his £250,000-a-week contract.

Chelsea led the race to sign Rooney in the summer, making two £20 million-plus bids, after being told that the 27-year-old wanted to move to Stamford Bridge, but there was also strong interest from Arsenal up until the final week of the window. United refused to sell Rooney to Chelsea, a club they regard as a principal title rival, but the league champions could be hemmed into a corner if the player pushes hard for a transfer either in January or next summer while refusing to extend his current deal.

Arsenal’s priority is to sign a blue-chip striker after failing to capture one in the summer but sources have said that Arsene Wenger has not yet drawn up a list of definitive forward targets. It is not known if Wenger will sanction a concerted January move for Rooney, or if United would sell to Arsenal, but the Gunners boss is a huge admirer of the Englishman, who has begun the season in outstanding form. Chief executive Ivan Gazidis claimed in June that Arsenal have the funds to afford the fee and wage package required to entice Rooney, and, crucially, there is around £80m available for the manager to spend in the next two windows despite the club-record £40m signing of Mesut Ozil deadline day.

Rooney is believed to be keen to seek a fresh challenge at an established Champions League club, where his status as the team’s principal centre-forward would be unquestioned. His disillusionment at occasionally being played out of position by Sir Alex Ferguson last season has also only partly been rectified by being consistently handed the No.10 role under new manager David Moyes. Speaking on Wednesday, ahead of his role in England’s World Cup qualifying win against Montenegro at Wembley on Friday night, Rooney offered only a flicker of encouragement to United that he would sign a new deal. Asked directly on Wednesday if he would like to stay at United, Rooney said: "You can see I'm playing and I'm happy in my football. I'll have more discussions with the club and we'll see what happens from there."

Privately, Rooney has provided no assurances to his employers and there is a sense among senior United officials that the forward’s agent Paul Stretford will use the uncertainty as leverage to engineer a transfer.

GEJ CONGRATULATES SUPER EAGLES

Nigeria’s President Doctor Goodluck Jonathan has described the victory of the Super Eagles in Ethiopia as very remarkable and an indication that the country is moving on despite the numerous challenges facing the country. The president who was speaking at the 2013 edition of Sacrifice of Praise holding in the Presidential Villa said that there is no nation that is not facing challenges and that Nigeria will get out of the woods the same way developed countries overcame their own challenges.

The president described the security and political challenges in the country as temporary and called for continuous prayers from concerned citizens for the country to overcome. According to him the government has never thought of how to build capacity in the various areas but for the challenges that have come up in the recent times.

The president said most of the experiences Nigeria faces today are designed to strengthen the country  and said that with the collective efforts of all, Nigeria will overcome as a nation.

STAND UP TO RONALDO–REDKNAPP TO BALE

The former Tottenham manager hopes that Bale will thrive in the unforgiving environment in the Spanish capital

QPR manager Harry Redknapp has released a new book in which he explains how his tough love aided Gareth Bale's development at Tottenham. But he has also urged Bale not to be "timid" in his relationship with Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo, now they are team-mates at the Santiago Bernabeu. He also warns that Madrid could become a very "lonely place" if Ronaldo feels threatened by Bale's presence and uses his influence against the Welshman. "Ronaldo is a huge star at Madrid and will probably want to take nine out of 10 free-kicks," says Redknapp. "Gareth will have to assert himself and that will require a strong mind. He has to think ‘I’m an £86million player’ and act like it. He will have to be ready for the matches when he goes it alone, has a shot, misses and Ronaldo starts throwing his arms up in the air. He cannot, at that point, go into his shell and become this timid little creature. But it is not natural for Gareth to behave in an assertive way. Don’t get me wrong, he knows he is good."

The start of Bale's Real career has been hampered by niggling injuries although he did find the net on his La Liga debut against Villareal.

RAMSEY AND WENGER WIN PFA OF THE MONTH

The duo have been prolific since their loss to Aston Villa, back in August.

Arsenal's Aaron Ramsey has been named Premier League Player of the Month while his boss Arsene Wenger has been named Manager of the Month.

The duo have been recognised for Arsenal's fine start to the season.

Ramsey has enjoyed a surge in form and embarked on a goalscoring run during September. The Wales international scored four goals in four games during September.

Wenger has been awarded manager of the month for four consecutive wins during the month of September that has lifted the club to the top of the Premier League table.

After Sunday's away draw at Swansea, the Gunners are on the summit, above Liverpool on goal difference.

JANUZAJ REJECTS BELGIUM CALL-UP AS UNITED STAR STILL TO DECIDE ON INTERNATIONAL FUTURE

Adnan Januzaj turned down the chance to commit his international future to Belgium on Monday but is still almost certain to prove beyond the reach of England coach Roy Hodgson.

Belgium manager Marc Wilmots made his first official move to win the battle for Januzaj's services when he named him in his squad for the forthcoming World Cup qualifiers against Croatia and Wales. But his overtures were swiftly rejected by Manchester United's teenage winger, as he asked Old Trafford officials to convey the message that he wanted more time to consider his international future. While that may encourage England to maintain their interest, Sportsmail understands the only threat to Belgium winning him over is if Kosovo are finally granted UEFA membership.

Januzaj's family fled war-torn Kosovo as refugees and have made no secret of their wish to see him represent their home country in an officially sanctioned international.

Wilmots was philosophical about being turned down but will seek discussions with Januzaj and his family and is likely to resume his efforts to talk him round ahead of next summer's World Cup finals. 'This was the first time I have tried to include him in a squad, because I wanted to send him a clear message,' he said. 'Unfortunately, I had a very quick response from England, when Manchester United called me to say the player felt he was not ready to make a choice about his international future. 'I respect his stance. Every player has the right to make his own choice, and I will not attempt to make any sort of ultimatum to him. But I do intend meeting Adnan and his entourage to find out for myself exactly what their thoughts are. You cannot force a player to choose a country. It has to come from his heart.

'Clearly, when you have a player of his technique and ability, the door to the national team always stays open.'

It is thought Januzaj wants to establish a senior club career for himself before making a final decision. Far stronger than it appears from his slender frame, Januzaj is capable of operating in any advanced position immediately behind a central striker, with the feeling he could develop into a top-class 'No 10'. He has made a good start, scoring twice on his first United Premier League start at Sunderland on Saturday.

That match-winning contribution alone should focus minds at Old Trafford about Januzaj's contract, which expires in the summer. Talks about an extension have been ongoing since April, although so far there has been no resolution. Little wonder many United fans are fearful of losing the young midfielder as they did with Paul Pogba, who has made such a big impression at Juventus.

Moyes will want to avoid that scenario at all costs given Januzaj is now set to become one of Europe's hottest properties. Not that the increased scrutiny is going to be a problem according to Phil Jones. 'He is a level-headed guy,' said the England defender. 'He knows what he has to do. He has to keep his head down. He is going to hit the heights though because that was some debut. The second goal was particularly impressive. If Gareth Bale gets one of those everyone is raving about it.'

BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE: PFA FANS’ PLAYER OF THE MONTH FOR SEPTEMBER

Tributes have been flooding in all season for Aaron Ramsey, and now the Arsenal midfielder has been given the seal of approval by football fans up and down the country.

We can reveal that the Welsh international, currently in the form of his life, is the worthy winner of the PFA Fans’ Player of the month award for September.

Ramsey has set both the Barclays Premier League and the Champions League alight this season, contributing an impressive eight goals in just 11 appearances in both competitions. He has also been on target for his country this season and few would deny him his time in the spotlight after the horrific injury which could have ended his career.

No-one is more grateful to see Ramsey at the peak of his powers than Arsene Wenger, and the Arsenal manager says:”He has been outstanding and his form is linked to confidence. "For a while, he was getting into the box and not scoring and now every time he is in a good position he scores. Goals can come in cycles. At the moment they are coming for him. "I always thought he would score goals if he improved his technical quality because you always saw him in good positions in the box."

Ramsey agrees with his manager’s assessment and adds: “I'm happy with the way I'm playing. I'm getting into positions and I'm putting them away at the moment. I have got into these positions before, but I haven't had the composure.”

Also in the hunt for our September award was in-form Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge, who has continued to add to his impressive goal record which currently stands at 19 in just 22 Liverpool starts. And, with Sturrridge now back in tandem with Luis Suarez, Reds boss Brendan Rodgers predicts that the England striker will get even better and make an even bigger impact for club AND country. "If Daniel maintains the form he is in, he's going to be a real asset for England,” said Rodgers. "If you look at him and [Wayne] Rooney as an add up that would be brilliant for England. “You have him and his cleverness, and Rooney in behind him with his movement between spaces and his exceptional quality. He's 24, scoring goals and playing well, and that bodes well for him."

As for the partnership with Suarez, Liverpool midfielder Jordan Henderson says: “I think Luis and Daniel can get even better. In training you can see the link-up play - they know instinctively where the other is going. I think that partnership and their goals can be a massive factor for us.”

With England preparing for a World Cup double-header, Sturridge will this week be looking to further develop his on-field relationship with Manchester United ace Rooney who also polled plenty of votes after an uncertain start to the season.

New United boss David Moyes is full of praise for the way Rooney has once again stepped up to the plate and write his name in club history by joining the exclusive 200 club. "He's played really well and we want him to maintain that. If anything I'm asking him to step up again. I want him to keep getting better,” said Moyes who is delighted that speculation about Rooney’s future has finally gone away.

MANCHESTER UNITED ACE LIKELY TO BE OUT FOR SEVERAL WEEKS WITH WRIST INJURY

New signing Fellaini will have to watch on from the sidelines.

There is more bad news for Manchester United as their indifferent season takes another blow with the news that Marouane Fellaini will be out for several weeks with a wrist injury, reports the Mirror. It’s suggested the problem is quite serious and could see Fellaini out of action for the Red Devils until December. The midfielder has suffered ligament damage and will see both a specialist and the Belgium national team doctor, before having surgery on the area. As a result of the injury the £27.5m new signing had to sit out Saturday’s trip to Sunderland, where a brace for national compatriot Adnan Januzaj secured the club’s first league win in three games. Fellaini has had a difficult start to the 25-year-old’s career at Old Trafford, reverting back to playing as a defensive midfielder and criticised extensively by fans and the media alike. The Belgian has played five matches for United in all competitions, including making his debut in the Champions League in a 4-2 win over Bayer Leverkusen.

The Premier League champions are said to lack creativity in midfield this term and the loss of Fellaini to injury will not help that problem. The retirement of Paul Scholes and the failure to sign stars such as Cesc Fabregas and Ander Herrera has seen manager David Moyes struggling in the Scot’s new role. Three defeats from seven matches in the English top tier has not been a great start, but the 50-year-old will now get a chance to reflect as the domestic competition takes a break for 10 days due to international ties.

ARSENAL AND LIVERPOOL FIGHT OVER MILOSEVIC

Young centre-half Milosevic targeted by Arsenal, Liverpool, Fulham and other Premier League clubs.

Arsenal, Liverpool and now Fulham are targeting AIK’s 21-year-old Swedish centre-back Aleksander Milosevic, and could bid for the defender when the transfer window reopens in January, reports the Express.

The 6 ft. 3″ powerful defender has shone in Swedish domestic football this season and last, and earned his first call-up to the senior Sweden squad earlier on this year. Arsenal are publicly trying to sign a new centre-half, and a move for Milosevic, who wouldn’t demand first-team football immediately, would make perfect sense for Arsene Wenger. Although Laurent Koscielny and Per Mertesacker have been impressive for the Gunners this term, the injury prone Thomas Vermaelen is the only current backup option.

Liverpool on the other hand have multiple centre-back options, with the likes of Daniel Agger, Martin Skrtel, Kolo Toure, Tiago Ilori and £18m signing Mamadou Sakho all vying for starting spot. It seems unlikely Brendan Rodgers would make securing a deal for Milosevic a priority, when the attacking spots in his squad are so thin.

Fulham have struggled this season, and captain Brede Hangeland has been nowehere near his best. Milosevic could be a long-term replacement for the stalwart Norwegian centre-half, who has so far been partnering the inconsistent Fernando Amorebieta in defence.

KIERAN GIBBS CALLED UP AS ASHLEY COLE IS RULED OUT

The arsenal left back is in the form of his life and has been a good influence to the teams positive run this season.

After initially being overlooked, Kieran Gibbs was today called up to the England squad for the World Cup qualifiers. Most Arsenal fans were in agreement that Gibbs has been excellent this season and that would have deserved a call up, but were more than happy to see him get a couple of weeks rest. However injury to Chelsea`s Ashley Cole has seen Kieran receive a call up to Roy Hodgson`s son. The likelihood is that Gibbs will play second fiddle to Everton`s Leighton Baines.

MOURINHO ADMITS GAMBLING

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho saw his big goalscoring gamble pay off at Norwich yesterday.

With the scores level at 1-1, the 50-year old introduced Samuel Eto’o, Eden Hazard and Willian in an attempt to reclaim the lead at Carrow Road after Anthony Pilkington’s header had cancelled out Oscar’s early opener.

Hazard and Willian both netted late goals to secure the win, something which pleased Mourinho as it looked as though he would be forced to settle for a point. “My idea was to come here, score the first and the second and try to kill the game as fast we can,” he told Sky Sports. “The players did their best and the opponents deserved to play and these teams are always difficult teams to beat. They fought hard and gave us a very difficult match. With the result at 1-0, they didn’t risk it; they were waiting for their chance to score a goal. They scored and after that, the game is open football but I’m not here to defend a point, I’m here to try to win so I had to risk a little bit. I did, but the responsibility is on the players as they’re on the pitch.” (Sky Sports)

Although Chelsea got the win, many will be worried as they are not looking like a side that can challenge for the title

A WRAP UP OF WEEK 7 IN EPL

Manchester City 3 – 1 Everton

Manchester City didn’t get scared by an early Romelu Lukaku goal and were able to come back and give Everton their first Premier League loss of the season.  Lukaku opened the scoring in the 16th minute but Alvaro Negredo made it 1-1 a minute later.  Sergio Aguero made it 2-1 right before halftime to give City a lead before the break.  A Tim Howard own goal sealed the deal in the 69th minute.  Howard was a bit unfortunate as he saved Sergio Aguero’s penalty and had it bounce back off the post and then off his head into the goal.  Yaya Toure was once against very good and should be used in fantasy frequently.  Sergio Aguero is another strong candidate for weekly use.  Leighton Baines has had two tough weeks in a row but look for him to bounce back against Hull City.

Cardiff 1 – 2 Newcastle

Both of these teams are on the bottom side of the table and this was a very winnable game for either team.  Newcastle came out on top with two Loic Remy goals and jumped to 11th place.  Remy has been on fire lately and has 65 fantasy points in his last three games.  I would seriously consider playing him in the future, although next week’s matchup is a tough one against Liverpool(after the international break).  Cardiff don’t have much going on for them fantasy wise, except maybe Steven Caulker, but even he is a stretch with the lack of clean sheets and a high price tag.

Fulham 1 – 0 Stoke City

This was a boring 1-0 win between two relegation candidates and the home side came away with the three points.  Both teams are now tied with 7 points and only outside the relegation zone because of tiebreakers.  The goal came from Darren Bent, but even he hasn’t been able to be a steady fantasy performer.  Avoid players from these teams for fantasy purposes as there is nothing going on here.

Hull City 0 – 0 Aston Villa

Aston Villa keep finding ways to earn points without their star striker Christian Benteke.  That could go a long way in the Premier League.  Villa are currently in 10th place and I think finishing in the top side of the table would be considered a success for them after battling in the relegation zone last season.  Hull City haven’t lost at home game yet and are in 8th place.  That’s a recipe for success in this league and the Tigers should also be happy with the result considering they were also missing their star player Robbie Brady.  Fantasy wise, Libor Kozak didn’t perform as well as we expect a leading striker to perform, but as long as Benteke is out, Kozak will be a high risk right reward play.  He’s worth keeping on the bench in case one of your starters doesn’t play.

Liverpool 3 – 1 Crystal Palace

The score here was closer than it should have been as Liveprool dominated the entire game.  I was trying to be smart this week and left both Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge on the bench in favor of Samuel Eto’o and Robin van Persie.  That plan backfired as Sturridge and Suarez both scored to help Liverpool to a 3-1 win.  Liverpool are looking like title contenders and their attack is one of the best in the league with Suarez and Sturridge up front.  Steven Gerrard is still fantastic and Victor Moses was a good addition at the beginning of the season.  They will look even better when Coutinho comes back from injury.  Make sure to include some Liverpool players in your fantasy squad going forward or you will regret your decisions.

Sunderland 1 – 2 Manchester United

Sunderland started the game well and went up on a Craig Gardner goal in the 5th minute.  Manchester slowly regained control and kept pressuring more and more as the game went on.  The pressure paid off in the second half with two Adnan Januzaj goals.  This was the 18 year olds’ first Premier League start and he played some fantastic football, creating chances and causing the defense problems the entire time.  Januzaj should earn more playing time if he continues playing this well, but don’t expect this kind of output every week.  Wayne Rooney(0 pts) and van Persie(5 pts) both started but disappointed fantasy managers.  That should change in the future.  Sunderland remain in last place.

Norwich 1 – 3 Chelsea

Chelsea came into Carrow Road looking for their first away win for the season and were successful with two late goals from substitutes Eden Hazard and Willian.  Chelsea were the better team the entire time and deservedly walked out with three points.  The thing that stood out the most here was that Demba Ba got the start instead of Samuel Eto’o.  Ba seemed like a forgotten man in the last few weeks but played well today and the Chelsea starting striker job is anyone’s to win once again.  Oscar seemed like Chelsea’s best player once again and should continue being a threat with constant playing time.  Avoid Norwich players until something changes.

Southampton 2 – 0 Swansea

Southampton were once again very impressive at home.  Their defense has been phenomenal this year and they’ve now kept four straight clean sheets.  Summer signing Dejan Lovren has transformed defense and should be a fantasy option every week.  Keeper Artur Boruc has been a top three keeper this year and should also be considered frequently at under 9 million pounds.  Swansea’s schedule gets much better after the break with a home game against Sunderland and they should move up the table after an extremely tough schedule to start the season.  Fantasy stud Ben Davies was injured towards the end of the game and could miss a few weeks.

Tottenham 0 – 3 West Ham

I had to look twice before believing the score in this game.  West Ham have been absolutely horrendous in attack and Tottenham’s defense has been much better than anticipated.  As bad as West Ham is offensively, they deserve a lot of credit on defense.  Their defense is a top 10 defense in the Premier League with only five allowed goals on the season and Jussi  Jaaskelainen has done well saving some important shots.  Ravel Morrison has been able to give them a nice spark on offense and should continue getting playing time in the future.  Tottenham had enjoyed relative success this season due to keeping other teams out and winning low scoring games, but that won’t work in the Premier League for too long and Spurs have to look more dangerous if they want to win in this league.  They sit in 6th place with 13 points.

West Brom 1 – 1 Arsenal

This was a very successful result for West Brom as they won a point against impressive Arsenal.  West Brom opened well and were able to score right before halftime after a wonderful header from Claudio Yacob.  Arsenal looked the better team in the second half, pressuring the hosts and creating a few chances.  Jack Wilshere scored the game equalizer in the second half.  Aaron Ramsey finally cooled off but still managed to get six points on the day.  Arsenal should be lethal in the future and there are many players worth a consideration week in and week out.

ARSENAL GO TOP OF THE TABLE WHILE MAN U SINK TO 12^TH POSITION

Team                                      Pl         GD      Pts

1.         Arsenal                                    6          6          15
2.         Liverpool                                 6          4          13
3.         Tottenham Hotspur                  6          4          13
4.         Chelsea                                   6          4          11
5.         Southampton                           6          3          11
6.         Manchester City                      6          7          10
7.         Hull City                                  6         -1         10
8.         Everton                                   5           2         9
9.         Aston Villa                              6           1         9
10.       West Bromwich Albion           6            1         8
11.       Cardiff City                             6          -1         8
12.       Manchester United                  6            0        7
13.       Swansea City                          6          -1         7
14.       Norwich City                          6           -2         7
15.       Stoke City                              6          -2         7
16.       Newcastle United                   5          -3         7
17.       West Ham United                   6          -1         5
18.       Fulham                                   6          -5         4
19.       Crystal Palace                        6          -6         3

20.       Sunderland                             6          -10       1

HE SHOULD BE BANNED!!!

Mourinho said the Belgium international should be suspended for his part in the Spain striker's sending off at White Hart Lane on Saturday afternoon

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has called for Jan Vertonghen to be banned for his role in Fernando Torres' red card against Tottenham.

Gylfi Sigurdsson gave the hosts a first-half lead at White Hart Lane, but John Terry hit back in the second period and that proved to be enough to earn a point for the Blues.

However, there was controversy when Torres was sent off for two bookings on Vertonghen, and Mourinho was left angry about the second, with the Belgian going down holding his face despite apparently little contact from the forward. The Chelsea boss called on the Premier League to take retrospective action against the defender and clear Torres of any wrongdoing.

He told BT Sport: "The team was very, very strong until the moment the referee made a mistake, a big mistake that had a big influence on the result. The referee is not guilty -- the player ‘Vertonghen’ is guilty. He pretended that Fernando had a big contact on him and the referee went on trust. At that moment we were much better. They were in big trouble. We were winning everything in midfield and going in waves of attack - (Andre) Schurrle had just had a chance that normally he has to score. It leaves a bad taste because we should win. "If I was boss of the (Premier League) committee I would give a one-match suspension to the Tottenham defender and nothing to Fernando." Mourinho felt that a draw was also harsh on his side. He added: "I don't think it was (fair). I think they were better in the first half but not much better, they didn't create so many chances. In the second half, there was only one team."

WE NEED WORLD-CLASS PLAYERS FOR CHAMPIONS LEAGUE CHANCE

 The Manchester United manager points to the likes of Bayern Munich, Barcelona and Real Madrid as having more exceptional squads as he prepares to take on Shakhtar Donetsk

Manchester United manager David Moyes believes that there are not yet enough "world-class players" in his squad for them to have a chance of winning the Champions League. The Red Devils got off to a good start in their group-stage campaign, beating Bayer Leverkusen 4-2, but the Scot is unsure about how they will compete when they face bigger teams. "To win the Champions League you have to have five or six world-class players," he said to the press after his side's surprise 2-1 defeat to West Brom on Saturday. "If you look at Bayern Munich, they have five or six really ­world-class players and, to win it, you might have to have that in your squad. Look at Barcelona, who had it in the past, and Real Madrid have maybe got it now. That's the level you have to get at to win it. We've not got that yet. What we have got is experience and several players who are in that category or close to it." United travel to Ukraine on Wednesday to face Shakhtar Donetsk in the second game of their Champions League group.

MANCHESTER UNITED SWEAT OVER LEWANDOWSKI’S PRE-CONTRACT DEAL

The Borussia Dortmund striker Robert Lewandowski has confirmed he will sign a pre-contract agreement with Bayern Munich in January. The 25-year-old has reportedly already agreed terms on next summer’s switch to the Bavarian club and had no reservations in making his intentions clear. When asked by the Sport1 television channel whether he could announce his switch to Bayern, the Poland international responded: “Yes, because then I can officially sign a contract.” Lewandowski was a pivotal player for the Westphalian club as they finished runners-up to Bayern in both the domestic and European leagues last season. The forward appeared for scored 36 goals in all competitions, which included becoming the first player to score four times in a Champions League semi-final when he dismantled Real Madrid almost single-handedly. (Guardian)

Manchester United will have mixed feelings over the news of Lewandowski with Rooney looking to extend his contract.

WENGER'S YOUNG GUNS SHALL GROW SCRAPE THROUGH

The winning mentality that now runs through the Emirates manifested itself in the Black Country as the determination of Arsene Wenger’s side not to be beaten carried them on in the Capital One Cup. After seven victories on the trot and only one reversal in their last 19 matches, Arsenal emerged victorious from 120 minutes of gruelling effort at the Hawthorns as Nacho Monreal had the final word in a penalty shoot-out to book a date at home to Chelsea in round four.

Wenger: “I’m very proud. We had many young players. They showed they are good players and can fight as well. I also decided to go with the young players for the penalties and they coped well with the pressure. It’s good because we know we can win when you think you’re dead. It was an important lesson.”

This game could have gone either way but the visitors simply refused to be bowed. West Bromwich Albion also lost their nerve when victory beckoned in the shoot-out.

Nicklas Bendtner returned after two years in the Arsenal wilderness and Wenger added: “Overall, Nicklas had a good game for a guy who has not played for so long. He did well on his own up front. You can’t question his confidence. For him the most important thing is to stay fit… you know he has the talent.”

But the youngsters stole the show, Thomas Eisfeld scored the opening goal, Serge Gnabry was a handful on the wing and others did their future prospects no harm while the efforts of often-maligned Lukasz Fabianski did as much as anyone to see Arsenal through. The Poland goalkeeper made a number of saves to provide a platform for Arsenal to go through. He tipped over a Craig Dawson header, Steven Reid’ s free-kick and Youssouf Mulumbu’s vicious 25-yarder before Eisfeld gave the visitors the lead just after the hour.

The 20-year-old German found the net after a perfectly weighted pass from Bendtner but it would have been harsh on the hosts had they not forced extra time. They found a way back into the match via a starlet of their own. Graham Dorrans’ corner was flicked on by Dawson, Shane Long retrieved the ball and lifted it back into the area, where Saido Berahino headed home to add to his hat-trick in the previous round against Newport. There were chances for both sides in the additional 30 minutes. Home keeper Luke Daniels saved from Hector Bellerin, who saw another effort flash past the post. But it took a superb goalline clearance by Per Mertesacker — after Albion substitute Markus Rosenberg had lifted the ball over Fabianski — to save the day. That set up spot kicks and here again it looked at one time as if Wenger’s side were about to capitulate. They were staring down the barrel when Gnabry missed Arsenal’s second kick. But Dawson and Morgan Amalfitano then fluffed their lines. It would have been harsh on either to have lost by this stage. But Arsenal’s fighting spirit and never say die attitude just about seen them home.

“I’M IN CHARGE AND IN CONTROL”... MOYES HITS BACK AT CRITICS

Manchester United boss David Moyes turned on the critics who have said the job is too big for him by insisting on Wednesday: “I will get it right.” The United manager restored calm to Old Trafford after their 4-1 derby drubbing by Manchester City with a Capital Cup win that overshadowed the return of Luis Suarez. Javier Hernandez scored the only goal of the game in the 46th minute, but United were forced to deal with some anxious moments, notably when Suarez, back from a 10-game suspension for biting, hit the bar with a free kick.

Moyes believes this victory, that sealed a fourth-round home tie against Norwich, will allow his side to push on. He said: “It (criticism) is not frustrating because I will sort it. I will fix it. I will turn it around. I have got no doubt about that. What have I learned? We have to improve. I am still getting to know the players. They are areally good team, they won the Premier League last year, but we need to improve. There certainly was (some relief) as it was a big day for us. We lost at Anfield a few weeks ago; we had lost at the Etihad last week, so we wanted to put that right. I thought it was a really good game, an exciting game of football from both teams. What was important was that the whole club showed we were hurt by the game on Sunday. We did not perform to our levels. But they have gone out and the players have done a great job to get us a big result. I didn’t think there was much in it. If you look at the two games (against Liverpool), they have both been won by a set piece. We made a lot of changes to make sure we made full use of the squad, to get them some playing time. Liverpool have started the season well. It was not a risk with the players we have at Manchester United to make changes. They are all internationals and first-team players. There are no reserves in this squad. Every one of them could play in the first team. Some of the performances were excellent.”

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers could not hide his frustration, although he was delighted with Suarez’s first performance for Liverpool in 157 days. “I thought we got into real good areas and I have got no qualms about the players’ efforts,” he said. “I thought Luis was excellent, he ran himself into the ground, he was always a threat. I had no qualms about playing him.”

Suarez vowed to help Rodgers’ side push for the top four. He said: “The result is not good because we lost but the feeling is good because we played very well, we created chances. I know it was a difficult moment but for myself and for the team it’s very important I’m back because I can help the team and (being) off the pitch I can’t.”

CAPITAL ONE CUP FOURTH ROUND DRAW

Arsenal beat West Brom on penalties tonight to set up a home London derby against London rivals Chelsea in the last 16 of the Capital One Cup.

Nacho Monreal scored the decisive spot-kick following a match at the Hawthorns that ended 1-1 after extra time.

Elsewhere, Fulham face a trip to Championship side Leicester City, West Ham will also travel to play a team from the division below in Burnley, while Tottenham play host to Hull City.

Draws:

Arsenal vs Chelsea

Leicester vs Fulham

Burnley vs West Ham

Tottenham Hot Spurs vs Hull City

Manchester United vs Norwich

Newcastle United vs Manchester City

Sunderland v Southampton

Birmingham City v Stoke City

Matches to be played on October 29 and 30.

ARSENAL BATTLES OVER YOUNG STAR

Arsenal is in a battle with Juventus to sign Austria Under-21 ace Martin Hinteregger.

The 21-year-old has been a regular for Red Bull Salzburg over the past few seasons since making his first-team bow in October 2010 and has been attracting interest from some of Europes biggest and best clubs

And now according to the TalkSport website it will be a battle between us and Juventus if we want to bring him here in the January window

The lad is obviously very gifted but we need top-class stars that will make an impact now

CHELSEA’S STARLET VAN GINKEL TO MISS THE REST OF THE SEASON

Chelsea midfielder Marco van Ginkel is set to miss the rest of the season after ripping his acute cruciate ligament in the League Cup match with Swindon.

The 20-year-old lasted just 10 minutes at the County Ground before being replaced by Ramires as Chelsea went onto win 2-0. The injury puts van Ginkel’s participation in next year’s World Cup in major doubt with Netherlands unlikely to risk the youngster with an abundance of talent at their disposal.

Van Ginkel, who signed from Vitesse Arnhem over the summer, has two international caps to his name.

LUIZ TO PROVE NOTHING TO MOURINHO AFTER ANOTHER WARMING OF BENCH FOR CHELSEA

David Luiz says he has nothing to prove after his exclusion from Chelsea’s squad for last Saturday’s 2-0 victory over Fulham. The defender, who played a crucial role for Brazil to win the Confederations Cup in the summer, returned to the Chelsea team for the 2-0 win at Swindon in the Capital One Cup on Tuesday but is not certain to face Tottenham on Saturday. Luiz said: “Playing is better than training but we are a big club with many, many good players. If we had just 11 players we could not win anything. When others are left out nobody says anything, but I don’t need to prove anything. Everyone knows who David Luiz is. Sometimes the manager puts me in, sometimes not. It’s his choice. The boss chooses his 11 players and his philosophy is to do the best job for Chelsea. He is a manager who wants everyone to work hard. I am privileged to play for a big club. That’s why I stay at Chelsea, so when I have an opportunity to play I enjoy it.” Chelsea confirmed that Marco van Ginkel faces a lengthy absence after injuring a cruciate ligament against Swindon

ARSENAL TARGET TO GET A DOUBLE PORTION DEAL

Juventus ready a deal to midfielder Paul Pogba– a “double portion” offer to shy away interest from Arsenal.

It is no secret that Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is a fan of the highly-rated midfielder and enquired in the summer but Juventus are determined to keep him.

Pogba is currently on £800,000-a-year in Turin but Juventus want to double his current contract which expires in 2016, according to the Daily Star

The young man is rated as one of the best talents in the game and a swoop is likely if he stalls on a new deal

ARSENAL CAPITAL ONE CUP SQUAD RELEASED: NO OZIL, RAMSEY AND OTHERS AS SIX TEENAGERS FEATURE

Mesut Ozil, Olivier Giroud, Aaron Ramsey and more are some of the big names who won't play ... but Chuba Akpom, Serge Gnabry and Kristoffer Olsson will...

Arsenal have announced their squad for the Carling Cup game against West Bromwich Albion this evening - and it is as expected an experimental line-up.

The likes of Per Mertesacker, Mathieu Flamini and Nacho Monreal will all feature but big names such as Mesut Ozil, Aaron Ramsey, Kieran Gibbs and Olivier Giroud are not even in the squad. It is a chance for young players to shine, and that is reflected in the squad - with the likes of Kristoffer Olsson, Chuba Akpom, Alex Iwobi and Ryo Miyaichi included. Thomas Vermaelen and Mikel Arteta will be hoping to take another step toward recovery from their respective injuries - with both players expected to start the game.

Here is your Arsenal squad for tonight's Carling Cup game...

13 Emiliano VIVIANO (GK)

21 Lukasz FABIANSKI (GK)

4 Per MERTESACKER

5 Thomas VERMAELEN

8 Mikel ARTETA

17 Nacho MONREAL

20 Mathieu FLAMINI

23 Nicklas BENDTNER

25 Carl JENKINSON

30 Ju Young PARK

31 RYO Miyaichi

37 Chuba AKPOM

40 Hector BELLERIN

42 Thomas EISFELD

44 Serge GNABRY

45 Isaac HAYDEN

53 Kristoffer OLSSON

60 Alex IWOBI

SUAREZ SHOULD HAVE BEEN PARTED WAYS WITH–BRUCE

Liverpool should have sold Luis Suarez to one of his summer transfer window suitors, with Arsenal among them, according to Anfield legend Bruce Grobbelaar. The Uruguay international was frequently linked with a departure from Merseyside before the transfer deadline, with Arsenal the most serious contenders to secure a deal for his signature.

Arsenal made a number of bids for Suarez, with an offer of £40,000,001 in the expectation of triggering a release clause, but Liverpool maintained the player was not for sale at any price. The Gunners were criticised for their pursuit of Suarez, with Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers accusing opposite number Arsene Wenger of 'playing games' in an attempt to bring the Uruguayan to the Emirates Stadium.

Grobbelaar, though, believes Liverpool should have cashed-in on the 26-year-old when they had the chance, given a catalogue of controversies since his move to Anfield in January 2011. "If you were just judging him by his calibre on the field then of course you would want him at Liverpool,“ he told talkSPORT. "But when you considered what he said earlier this season and his attitude, I would have got rid of him and gone and got some players who want to be there. “When he said he wanted to go I was the first one to say, ‘get rid of him’, because I thought he was going to be a bad egg amongst the team."

Suarez is set to make a long-awaited Liverpool return on Wednesday - the first time he will have made a competitive appearance for the club since biting the arm of Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic in April. The forward is in contention to start in the Capital One Cup clash with Manchester United at Old Trafford, and Rodgers says the player's return will be like signing a '£50-£60 million' striker.

ANELKA TO REUNITE WITH ARSENAL WHEN WEST BROM TAKE ON THE GUNNERS TONIGHT

Anelka, above, launched a career that has cost £90 million in transfer fees when he joined Arsenal from Paris Saint-Germain for £500,000 16 years ago, and now he can help West Brom dump them out of the Capital One Cup.

Arsenal have won all seven games they have played in Europe and the Premier League since the shock opening-day defeat by Aston Villa that heaped pressure on Wenger.

Since then he has bought Mesut Ozil for a club-record £42m and taken Arsenal to the top of the table and into another Champions League season.

But Wenger needs to win a trophy after an eight-year drought. Arsenal have not claimed the League Cup since 1993, despite reaching two finals in the past six years, and Anelka can make them wait longer. (Express)

MORE DISAPPOINTMENT TO COME

Manchester United manager David Moyes has warned he may have to take more blows this season following his side's 4-1 derby defeat to Manchester City. The Premier League champions have secured seven points from five games, which is the club's worst start to a campaign in nine years. United will be looking to bounce back from their loss at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday with a victory in the Capital One Cup against Liverpool on Wednesday, but the 50-year-old admits his side's form may not improve straight away. "Not for a minute did I think this Manchester United job was going to be an easy job," Moyes said. "There will be days like we had on Sunday, and there might be more of them because we're in a period where there will be transition. “There’s a new manager for the players, and in turn there will be new players as well at different times, so obviously that will happen. "It does mean I may have to take a few more blows, definitely. Maybe even more than that - maybe all season I'll have to take a few blows - but I knew this was going to be the case because I was taking over from a great manager and it was always going to take time for me to get my own ways and change things round a little bit. "It doesn't mean big jobs but there will be some things. I think a lot of people thought Manchester United [won the title] last season but it was probably the form of other teams that was poor." Following criticism over the club's lack of transfer activity in the summer, Moyes insists he has adequate squad depth for the season but admits United now need to sign players who will make an immediate impact at Old Trafford. "I don't think it's actually the squad. I think we've got numbers," the United boss said. "I think maybe where we've got work to do is bring players in, not for the squad, but to go right into the team, so that's the slightly different equation. "It's not necessarily squad players we needed. We needed one or two who might have just gone straight into the team. But that will happen. "Going back to that transfer window, we always said it was going to be a tough one and it was going to take a little bit more time."

ARSENE BACKED TO LAND BIG TIME STRIKER

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger will try again to buy a big-name striker when the transfer window re-opens in January, and he’ll have another sizeable pot to spend.

There has been so much talk about the arrival of Mesut Ozil that many have forgotten that he only brought in two class signings in the summer

And that has prompted the board to back Wenger in the winter window and give him £40 million to find a striker that can add 30-plus goals a season according to the Daily Mail.

The likes of Wayne Rooney, Luis Suarez and Karim Benzema have all been linked. But our best bet would be Robert Lewandowski.

He is a free agent in the summer and Dortmund may decide to cash in rather than lose him for absolutely nothing at the end of the season.

ARSENAL ON HIGH ALERT AS SERIE A LEGEND IS ON THE MOVE

Arsenal are reportedly on high alert with the news Andrea Pirlo’s Juventus future is in doubt. The Italian international, rated as one of the world’s most influential midfielders, joined the Old Lady two years ago but his current deal expires at the end of the season. And Juve boss Antonio Conte is still undecided whether to offer the 34-year-old a new contract. (Metro). The man may be getting on in age but he could still add something to their midfields

VAN PERSIE TO MISS CAPITAL ONE CUP LIVERPOOL CLASH

David Moyes has confirmed the striker is unavailable for the Capital One Cup clash against the Merseyside outfit, but could be fit in time to face West Brom on Saturday

Robin van Persie is out of Manchester United's Capital One Cup clash with Liverpool on Wednesday through injury. The striker picked up a groin problem prior to the 4-1 defeat to Manchester City on Sunday, and will now miss the game at Old Trafford. However, David Moyes believes Van Persie has an "outside chance" of featuring against West Brom in the Premier League on Saturday.

Speaking at press conference ahead of the Liverpool match, Moyes said: "I don't think Robin will play on Wednesday. But I think he'll have an outside chance for Saturday.” Moyes also believes it is time to move on from their convincing derby defeat and expects to learn more about his players' character in the coming weeks.

He continued: "It's gone now. I can't do anything about it so we move on and get ready for the next game. "I'm still getting to know all the players. I'll get to know a few more this week and see what they can do." Despite Van Persie absence, Moyes hinted that he will include a number of established players for the Capital One Cup clash, a match which could mark Luis Suarez's return to competitive action for Merseyside outfit.

"It's a big rivalry," he added. "And it could take on a bigger significance than people might expect. “I think it means that Liverpool have a got a really good player. Does it change the complexion? I don't know. I'm not looking at Liverpool too much except that I know the quality of Luis Suarez is very good." "The cup has been a route to giving young players an opportunity. [But] obviously this is a really big tie."

SUNDERLAND DEFEND DI CANIO APPOINTMENT

The Black Cats were derided for sacking their manager just five games into the new season but, in truth, they never expected the volatile Italian to be a long-term appointment

Sunderland have been widely derided for giving Paolo Di Canio the platform for one of the most volatile managerial reigns in Premier League history. There has been no shortage of critics to question the club’s logic in appointing a combustible Italian with a mediocre coaching CV, an ego that exceeds his considerable playing talent and whose man-management skills seem restricted to scaring the living daylights out of his players and staff. Yet Sunderland sources have said that there was never any great expectation among club chiefs that Di Canio’s reign would be a lengthy and trouble-free one. “He did the job we wanted him to do last season,” one insider told Goal. “He kept us up. We knew it could all unravel at some point but the most important thing was maintaining our Premier League status. The gratitude extended to Di Canio was widespread on Wearside last season, even if it should be noted that Sunderland were 16th when he arrived and 17th when the campaign ended. Yet he briefly energised the players, steered the team to a pivotal 3-0 victory over rivals Newcastle United when the club’s top-tier position was in the balance and gave those in the media business some of the most captivating copy any could remember. He pulled off the impressive feat of making Joe Kinnear look colourless and uninteresting by comparison.

For Sunderland, Di Canio was only ever a short-term fix. He provided a sticking plaster for a weeping wound and, once it had healed, he lacked the bedside manner and all-round skills to soothe the other cuts and bruises. The board, led by American owner Ellis Short and youthful chief executive Margaret Byrne, have been criticised for ignoring Di Canio’s fascist sympathies at a club with deep roots in a working-class community, and for failing to properly research the Italian’s character and coaching style. There is much justification for the former. Sunderland were naïve, at best, in overlooking Di Canio’s political beliefs.

However, sources say club chiefs knew they were taking a gamble in appointing Di Canio, whose only previous experience came in the lower leagues with Swindon Town. They did not anticipate he would alienate the playing staff quite so quickly but nor was there the expectation that he would be blowing out 10 candles on his Sunderland anniversary cake in 2023. Short, who made his millionaire fortune in hedge funds, would also have calculated that the package pay-off for Di Canio, who only signed a two-and-a-half-year contract when he was appointed, is minimal compared to the windfall from being a Premier League club in the first season of the mammoth new broadcasting deal, when the bottom-placed team are guaranteed £20million more than last season.

Sunderland believe that, by dismissing Di Canio with 33 league matches remaining, the club have minimised the damage to their campaign and allowed the new man, expected to be Gus Poyet, plenty of time to address the team's failings. Di Canio's successor will have to gel the 14 new signings from the summer into the team but the players were signed by Roberto Di Fanti, the director of football, not the former manager. Di Canio was merely responsible for identifying the squad position he wanted to improve and the type of player for the role, but it was his countryman, a former agent, who selected the individual players. As with most clubs who utilise this continental-style model, the responsibility of the head coach, a title that Di Canio was happy with, is to get the best possible results from the talent pool at his disposal. Sunderland deemed Di Canio to have ultimately failed in that respect and, following a dressing room rebellion at his methods, made a quick kill to limit the long-term damage.

Arsenal still monitoring long term striker target and a January bid is a real possibility

Arsenal might come back with a massive bid, estimated to be in the region of £46 million, for Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema, in January. The news has surfaced following reports of the Frenchman being booed by fans during Los Blancos’ La Liga match against Getafe, which ended 4-1 in Real’s favour.

The fans were reported jeering Benzema during the early moments of the match. The booing stopped later on, with the Frenchman eliciting applause from the crowd for two well hit headers that however, failed to make any difference to the scoreline.

A source in Spain was quoted telling SportsDirect News: “Karim getting booed is not new – he has been singled out before. However, now he looked destroyed as he went off after being substituted. Arsenal have been monitoring the situation and so a January sale could be on.”

Benzema was believed to be on the radar of a number of sides, including Arsenal and Manchester United this summer after reports of his unsettlement at the Santiago Bernabeu. However, neither club managed to secure his services and were told that the striker was an integral part of manager Carlo Ancelotti’s plans. But it is believed that if the current situation doesn’t change, Benzema could be open to a move to greener pastures, with Arsenal expected to make a substantial bid for him in January.

Left Back: The One Position Where the England National Team Has So Much Talent

By Andrew Jones

There has been much ballyhoo throughout the entire soccer world about England having trouble developing its talent, especially compared to rivals Spain and Germany at the moment.

Many have snickered at the Three Lions’ international performances throughout the last several years, since they were blitzed by Germany in that 2010 World Cup round of 16 match. And this past summer, the criticism inside and outside the country further intensified after the dreadful performances by both the Under-21s in Israel and the U-20 World Cup side in Turkey.

But England have done something that no other country in the world have been able to do at the moment, an under the radar achievement that definitely deserves its recognition. It’s something that surely could benefit them next summer in Brazil and for many years to come, and abate a few of the stories that the country who created the game is having trouble inventing significant talent in the modern age.

England have the best group of left backs in the world. Better than Spain, better than Germany, better than Brazil. Better than everyone else.

For how countries can go many years without having even a solid class left back, let alone a world class one, England have been blessed with having at least four top left backs, with two certainly having the right to say they have the label of being world class.

Those obviously two world class players are the moment are standouts Ashley Cole and Leighton Baines, who are still embroiled in that great battle to be the starting left back. Considering the incredible emergence of Baines over the last few seasons from solid Premier League player to a true star, the 100th plus capped Cole has done remarkably well to still hold a spot he has held for over 11 years — especially when Baines seems to score free kick goals for fun.

Cole has been one of the few bright spots in the rocky return for Jose Mourinho to Chelsea, but knows that he has no margin for error with both club (more on that later) and country with Baines forever nipping at his heels.

But what makes England’s depth remarkable at left back is not just Baines being able to replace Cole with no problem if something were to happen to the former Arsenal man, but the depth that has emerged right behind Baines. And the next two in that order reside in North London.

Kieran Gibbs matured over the last few years into a dependable squad player for Arsene Wenger. He has now blossomed into a standout full back in England, with his excellent early start to the season. The 23-year-old Lambeth native has comprehensively swatted away challenges from Andre Santos and Nacho Monreal to become the perfect replacement at left back for the Emirates club since Gael Clichy departed to Manchester City in 2011.

He was already adept for a few years at knowing when to help Arsenal in attack, but Gibbs cemented his growth as a pure defender in winning a great youth battle against Andros Townsend in their 1-0 win over rivals Spurs a few weeks back and his great last ditch efforts to preserve their Champions League opening win against Marseille.

Gibbs’ quality is so good at the moment that he could make a case for starting for even the likes of Italy at left back, who haven’t found a left back as good as Fabio Grosso in years, let alone the legend Paolo Maldini.

But Gibbs may not even be England’s third best left back, as across town at Tottenham stands the ever emerging Danny Rose. Gibbs was witness to how Rose showed why he would be a major factor in England circles for years to come with his stunning low distance goal in his league debut against none other than Arsenal in April 2010. That special finish was nominated “Goal of the Season” by Sky Sports and propelled Tottenham to a 2-1 win over Arsenal, a victory that factored in heavily to securing a Champions League top four finish that year.

With Benoit Assou-Ekotto and possibly Kyle Naughton ahead of him at left back, Rose knew he needed permanent starting time to continue his development. After injuries saw Harry Redknapp having to bring him back from his loan spell at Bristol City early, Rose shined again for Spurs when Assou-Ekotto was unavailable with his own ailments  in the last three games of the 2010-2011 season. Still, with Assou-Ekotto, a returning Naughton for Norwich, and the incoming Jan Vertonghen, Rose knew he needed another loan move in order to permanently be Spurs’ first choice left back in the future.

A loan move to Sunderland was granted last season and Rose again impressed throughout the entire campaign, right after also gaining further plaudits for his performances with Great Britain at the London Olympics. With all of that confidence and experience of quality play gained, Rose returned to Tottenham and continued his steady rise. The inconsistent Naughton was dropped to the bench despite Andre Villas Boas liking him, and Rose has become a true force for Spurs on the left. In fact, him and Kyle Walker could give Tottenham the best full back combination in the Premier League. Yet unlike Walker, who is in his own great battle with Glen Johnson for the starting England right back position, Rose would need unfortunate injuries or an unlikely sharp dip in form from at least Cole and Baines to make it to Brazil.

Amazingly enough, England’s depth continues at that much coveted left back position with a few sensational youngsters who would be first choice for many nations.

Cole’s teammate Ryan Bertrand, if he was a different nationality, would be snapped up by the likes of the United States, Mexico, and maybe even Belgium (with no offense to the quality Vertonghen) to start in the left back position. All Bertrand did to prove his great talent was start in his first Champions League match in the final at Bayern Munich and be a pivotal reason why Roberto Di Matteo, Roman Abramovich, and Chelsea were European Champions, and why Bayern suffered the long lasting agony of losing the ultimate match at home.

But with Cole holding his Stanford Bridge left back spot with as much stinginess as his iron grip with the national team position, Bertrand may have to start thinking about his options of getting first team action if he isn’t in Mourinho’s plans. His versatile ability to play as a left winger will help, but he has found it very difficult so far to even be on the bench in the early days of The Special One’s second London era.

And yet, despite those five great talents, England still have more options at left back. Luke Shaw continues to impress under Mauricio Pochettino at Southampton and was terrific in the Saints’ 1-0 victory at Liverpool to the Reds’ premature title ambitions. The 18-year-old is incredibly still under the radar for being the latest Saints youth prodigy, with the depth ahead of him at left back in the division being a reason why.

A shout-out is also deserved for Aston Villa 22-year-old Nathan Baker, who after loan spells with Lincoln City and Millwall over the last few years, has been being a regular choice for Paul Lambert’s side. In another country, Baker would be in the starting 11. But with the competition around his age at the position, he may never get a single cap with England after doing so with the U19s, U20s, and U21s.

It’s quite an incredible achievement for England to have this much depth for one of the hardest positions in soccer to find talent. Considering how England still has to improve with their youth development compared to the current elite like Spain, Germany, and Brazil, it’s one feather in the cap that England should be proud of. Spain, Germany and Brazil would love to have the incredible depth at left back that England possesses at the moment.

Mesut Ozil: King of the Assists

Arsenal's record-breaking German midfield maestro has cemented his position as 'King of the Assists'

When German midfielder Mesut Ozil arrived at Arsenal on transfer deadline day in what was a club-record transfer fee of £42.5 million, some argued that the creative midfielder wasn't what the Gunners needed to be considered as title contenders this season.

However, Ozil is gradually silencing his critics and affirming that indeed Arsene Wenger was right in breaking the bank to secure his signature. Ozil has also gone on to prove that he remains the 'King of Assists' who could provide that killer pass that could break the deadlock. The German international again confirmed this with his display on Sunday in Arsenal's game against Stoke City.

Ozil provided all three assists as Arsenal trounced Stoke to secure their seventh consecutive win since their opening day home loss to Aston Villa as the Gunners also move to the top of the Premier League. The attacking midfielder had already proven his mettle at Real Madrid - he is a player with class who can make the difference and his arrival is proving to be a great boost to Arsenal as it seems to have transformed the north London side into genuine title contenders. The German midfield maestro - who finished several seasons atop of the La Liga assist chart - is a delight to watch anytime as his sleek touches, vision, finesse, accurate passes and improvisation as an attacking midfielder makes the game of soccer look so easy. His style and knack for providing assists for his teammates has often been compared to that of Real Madrid legend Zinedine Zidane. The playmaker does not only have an amazing reputation of providing assists, he is also a prolific goalscorer and it is hoped that the former Madrid player will guide Arsenal to a trophy this term.

THE TOP NEW BOYS: DEBUTS OF OZIL, ETO'O, ERIKSEN AND MORE

Marouane Fellaini (Manchester United)

Cost: £27.5million
Played: 28 minutes
Result: United 2-0 Crystal Palace
Rating: 6/10
Fellaini was brought in, in the second-half as that the time Manchester United were controlling comfortably against 10 men. He gelled in–the centre midfielder had his say in the game and United doubled their lead while he was on the pitch. 
The man he replaced, Anderson, was having a bad day and most United fans will be hoping that it is the mop-headed Belgian who starts against neighbours Man City for the derby next week.
Mesut Ozil (Arsenal)

Cost: £42.5m
Played: 80 mins
Result: Arsenal 3-1 Sunderland
Rating: 9/10
Superb, as expected. The playmaker created on one goal and stepped in for the injured Santi Cazorla. Substituted with 10 minutes to go to, a standing ovation was given to him; expect to more creativity from Ozil as the season unfolds.
Christian Eriksen (Tottenham)

Cost: £11.5m
Played: 71mins
Result: Tottenham 2-0 Norwich
Rating: 8/10
He was bought from Ajax; he is a creative attacking midfielder and he showed that on Saturday by laying on Gylfi Sigurdsson's first goal. Although, he may well replace his colleague in the side once Aaron Lennon and Erik Lamela are ready to start, today he set him up. He continued to impress and was eventually substituted after 71 minutes.
Samuel Eto'o (Chelsea)

Cost: Free
Played: 90 mins
Result: Everton 1-0 Chelsea
Rating: 6/10
He got in some good positions but was wasteful with chances. One early goal-bound shot was blocked by Gareth Barry, and he headed over the bar after a superb Ramires cross. He's still not fully match-fit yet, in his defence.
Gareth Barry (Everton)

Cost: Season-long loan
Played: 90 mins
Result: Everton 1-0 Chelsea
Rating: 8/10
An impressive debut it was for the central midfielder. Along with Ross Barkley, he helped break up Chelsea's play and, most of all, threw himself in the way to block an Eto'o shot which could have put Chelsea in front. 
Loic Remy (Newcastle)

Cost: Season-long loan
Played: 63 mins
Result: Aston Villa 1-2 Newcastle
Rating: 6/10
An unspectacular performance from Remy, which saw him subbed off after an hour. Newcastle's star man was Hatem Ben Arfa, but they'll need either Papiss Cisse or Remy to come to the fore this season as the main goal threat.
Stevan Jovetic (Man City)

Cost: £22m
Played: 63 minutes
Result: Stoke 0-0 Man City
Rating: 5/10
Although he wasn't signed at the end of the transfer window, this was his first appearance for City in a competitive game. It wasn't one to remember.
He tried hard but was frustrated by Stoke's defence and was eventually replaced by Sergio Aguero. It will work out for the talented Jovetic, but this was not the most promising of beginnings. 

GUARDIOLA: BUNDESLIGA IS STRONG

THE BAVARIANS FOUND LIFE TOUGH

Against their spirited visitors in the 2-0 win, while franck ribery and toni kroos gave their reaction to the win

Pep Guardiola believes Bayern Munich's laboured 2-0 win over underdogs Hannover on Saturday proves the strength-in-depth in the Bundesliga. Goals from Mario Manzukic and Franck Ribery secured the win to get the Bavarians back on track after dropping points in their last game - a 1-1 draw with Freiburg - but only after a goalless first half.

However, Guardiola was unconcerned with how his men were made to slog for the result and praised the team for raising their game subsequently.
"All the teams in the Bundesliga are very, very good, as Hannover proved today," Pep to reporters after the match. "We were a little risk-averse in the first half. In the second half, we played better after the opening goal from Mario Mandzukic. Now we’re looking forward to the Champions League."

Ribery and Toni Kroos cited their early troubles as originating from the recent international break, but nevertheless underlined die Roten ultimately deserved victory. "We didn’t do very well in the first half. It's always difficult after an international break. It was a lot better in the second half,” said Ribery. "We knew we had to shift up a gear in the second half. It's what we swore to do and we did it successfully. We deserved the win by the end," said Kroos.

The result meant that the German champions sit two points behind Borussia Dortmund - who subsequently won 6-2 at home to Hamburg - in the Bundesliga table before Tuesday's Champions League opener with CSKA Moscow.

English Premier League Matchday 4

F.T. Manchester United FC     2 - 0      Crystal Palace FC

F.T.Aston Villa FC                  1 - 2      Newcastle United FC

F.T. Fulham FC                       1 - 1      West Bromwich Albion FC

F.T. Hull City FC                     1 - 1      Cardiff FC

F.T. Stoke City FC                  0 - 0      Manchester City FC

F.T. Sunderland FC                 1 - 3      Arsenal FC

F.T. Tottenham FC                  2 - 0      Norwich FC

F.T. Everton FC                      1 - 0      Chelsea FC

SUNDERLAND 1 ARSENAL 3: RAMSEY HITS DOUBLE AS £42.5M-MAN OZIL SHINES ON GUNNERS BOW

Mesut Ozil, whose success or failure at Arsenal will decide whether Arsene Wenger stays on as manager after this season marked his Gunners’ debut with a performance of singular brilliance and superb vision.

Wenger had created the European stage on which Ozil demanded to perform when he maintained his record of never finishing out of the Premier League’s top four in his 17-year reign.

And last week the Arsenal boss indicated that any decision to extend his stay would depend on whether the German international midfielder justifies the club record £42million transfer fee that took him from Real Madrid on deadline day.

Well the Gunners hierarchy can start drawing up the contract and readying the pen and ink. On the evidence of this particular player judgment, the Frenchman is not going anywhere.

Wenger should be congratulated for recruiting a player who will adorn Premier League pitches with his talent — an uncanny ability to see a pass and a silky left foot to execute it.

Arsenal could well emerge as real title aspirants when they start firing on all cylinders which, unfortunately for them judging from Wenger’s after-match comments, may not be for a good while yet.

Santi Cazorla will be out for some weeks with an ankle problem picked up in training on Friday and Giroud suffered a knee injury which leaves the team woefully short up front.

Remarkably, it was Cazorla’s setback that forced the Arsenal boss to press gang Ozil into premature action when he pulled out of training the previous day with a stomach bug. ‘He was sick on Thursday night and I decided only today to play him,’ he said. ‘If Cazorla had been fit I would not have taken a gamble — but I had not much choice.

‘Like the team, he had an outstanding first half and dropped physically in the second.’

Theo Walcott should have gorged himself with a feast of first-half goals principally provided by Ozil’s service. Kieren Westwood denied him with two great point-blank saves in the 15th and 28th minutes and was off target with a  close-range header in the 43rd minute from Jack Wilshere’s cross.By this time, the German had announced his arrival by setting up Arsenal’s 11th-minute opener with skills that underlined his polished individuality.

Collecting and controlling a Kieran Gibbs cross which dropped over his shoulder down the left with his superb touch, he laid in Giroud with a low centre which the Frenchman buried into the right corner with equal aplomb.

The rest of the half was a pleasurable viewing of Ozil’s midfield master-class which, with his team-mates warming to his example, should have put the points well out of reach by the break.

But a resurgent Sunderland came close to making the opposition pay for not making the most of their earlier dominance.

Craig Gardner, who replaced David Vaughan at the interval, was on the field only three minutes before he scored the equaliser from the spot, after Laurent Koscielny had brought down Adam Johnson.

Aaron Ramsey restored Arsenal’s advantage in the 67th minute with a superb right-foot first-time shot from Gibbs’ cross but, three minutes later, Paolo Di Canio was incensed when Jozy Altidore had a goal disallowed because referee Martin Atkinson refused to play the advantage rule after the striker was fouled by Bacary Sagna.

Altidore went on to force the ball over the line in spite of a desperate but unsuccessful attempt to prevent the goal by Koscielny.

‘It was a key moment and a big mistake by the referee,’ said the Sunderland manager. ‘He had plenty of time to allow the play to go on and then he could have brought it back for the free-kick. It would have made the score 2-2 and anything could have happened after that.’

The official compounded his error by booking the Arsenal skipper, but Di Canio’s temper was hardly soothed when Ramsey collected a superb pass from Giroud before putting the ball beyond Sunderland’s reach in the 76th minute.

‘The break came at the right time for Sunderland. They came back strong; we dropped physically. They came back to 1-1 but we had the mental resources to find two goals again,’ said Wenger.

Defeat dropped Sunderland to the foot of the table with home games to come against Liverpool, Manchester United, Newcastle, Manchester City, Chelsea and Tottenham.

Di Canio, who has ordered his foreign players learn English, will need more understanding from his 14 newcomers if the cold blast of winter from the nearby North Sea does not sink their survival chances before Christmas.

TOTTENHAM 2 NORWICH 0: SIGURDSSON AT THE DOUBLE AS SPURS BEGIN LIFE AFTER BALE WITH EASY WIN OVER DEFENSIVE CANARIES

Did Spurs save their best summer signing till last? Christian Eriksen, by all accounts, was touted both by Liverpool and virtually half of Europe but their loss is clearly Tottenham’s gain.

The 21-year-old Dane, brought in on transfer deadline day from Ajax as the final piece in Andre Villas-Boas’ big-spending jigsaw, became the new White Hart Lane hero in the post-Gareth Bale era after a debut rich in skill and vision.

Playing in a playmaker’s role behind the lone striker, Eriksen set up both of Gylfi Sigurdsson’s goals as his team cruised to victory over a Norwich side that only turned up in the last 15 minutes.

Otherwise this was as easy a maximum points haul as Andre Villas-Boas’ side will surely pick up all season. Before Norwich’s belated mini-rally, Spurs could have had half a dozen goals though Villas-Boas will be the first to admit that it will take time to mould £110 million worth of new talent into a cohesive unit.

Still, nine points from 12 represents a more than encouraging start, especially when you take on board that Tottenham’s record signing, Erik Lamela, again started on the bench, mainly through lack of fitness.

Keep your eyes on Eriksen who has hit the ground running. Ever since Luka Modric and Rafael van der Vaart left the club, let alone Bale, Spurs have been looking for a creative force of similar stature.

They have surely found it in the clever Dane who might have drifted under the radar by costing far less money than some of the other new arrivals but whose purchase is a master stroke after helping Ajax to three straight league titles.

After nutmegging Michael Turner to set up a delicious backheel from Roberto Soldado that struck the post, it was Eriksen’s sweetly weighted pass that helped Sigurdsson open the scoring with a crisp, precise finish.

The move that led to Sigurdsson’s second, from close range, was again started by Eriksen and it was fitting that both received standing ovations when they were substituted through sheer fatigue. They were Spurs’ first goals from open play this season.

‘We used not being able to beat Norwich last season as inspiration and it was a very good performance from the team,’ said Villas-Boas.

‘It was a great debut from Christian whose performance between the lines was fantastic. He’s a pure number 10.

‘I was also so pleased for Sigurdsson because he returned from international duty with a dead leg. Every time he has this opportunity he makes the most of it with a great attitude. It’s very early days but it’s good to have had such a different start from last season.’

The Iceland international could have had a hat-trick but for Norwich goalkeeper John Ruddy’s intervention, while the occasionally wasteful but vastly improving Andros Townsend had three efforts of his own.

Ricky van Wolfswinkel fluffed a golden chance to reduce the deficit but Norwich were always second best even though manager Chris Hughton thought Spurs keeper Hugo Lloris was a trifle fortunate to receive a yellow card instead of red for punching the ball outside the area.

‘Don’t get me wrong, we were deservedly beaten by an extremely good side but the keeper’s momentum took him outside the box and it was clear hand ball,’ said Hughton. ‘Was it intentional? For me it has to be.’ As ever though, Hughton was gracious in defeat.

‘Eriksen is going to be a real star and when the opposition has other top players like Paulinho and Dembele, you just hope you can have your periods on the ball, but we didn’t have enough.’

Steven Whittaker and Javier Garrido had no answer to the pace of Rose and Townsend as Tottenham piled on the pressure down the flanks.

Rose whipped in a dangerous cross that Norwich just cleared before Soldado could head in.

Townsend, Eriksen and Rose all wasted chances just before the break.

Villas-Boas became angry at his team's failure to add a second, and they almost paid for their profligacy when Jan Vertonghen lost his footing in his own box while tracking Ricky Van Wolfswinkel. Luckily for Spurs, Rose put a foot in to deny the Dutchman.

The home crowd only had to wait three minutes after the restart for Tottenham to double their lead.

Eriksen picked the ball up in the centre and fed Paulinho, who fired a low ball through Ruddy's hands to the back post where the unmarked Sigurdsson tapped in.

EVERTON 1 CHELSEA 0: NAISMITH LEAVES ETO'O IN THE SHADE AS TOFFEES STUN MOURINHO

Jose Mourinho suffered his first defeat in his second coming as Chelsea manager as birthday boy Steven Naismith celebrated his first league start of the season in perfect fashion.

The Scotland international, who turned 27 today, was on target as Roberto Martinez's men picked up their first win of the season

The Scotland international, who scored in the 2-1 defeat at Stamford Bridge on the final day of the season when he was last in a Premier League starting line-up, headed home the winner in first-half added time.

His goal also kick-started the Roberto Martinez era at Goodison Park after three successive draws had left the Spaniard with some convincing still to do.

Chelsea have hardly been pulling up trees like they did in Mourinho's first spell in charge in 2004.

Back then he began with four successive wins and did not taste defeat until his ninth outing in the league.

This time around it appears he is not so special with two victories, a draw and now this defeat.

The much-anticipated Premier League debut of Chelsea striker Samuel Eto'o did not go to plan for the 32-year-old, who was outshone by Gareth Barry making his first appearance for the Toffees after his deadline-day loan move from Manchester City.

His class is not in doubt but the former Barcelona and Inter Milan forward may be a bit rusty after a money-spinning spell in Russia with Anzhi Makhachkala.

It certainly looked that way when he headed wide Ramires' cross after five minutes when he should have - at the very least - hit the target.

More embarrassingly the Cameroonian then ballooned a long-range shot into the upper tier of the Gwladys Street end

But Everton offered precious little up front themselves, with Nikica Jelavic's weak header and Naismith's cross-shot palmed away by Petr Cech at the near post all they could muster in the opening half-hour as midfielder Ross Barkley began brightly but faded quickly.

And Martinez's preference for them to play out from the back almost cost them a goal when goalkeeper Tim Howard tried to pass square from his six-yard box.

There was the miss Mourinho lamented on 28 minutes then Schurrle skied an opportunity on 38 minutes.

‘He just needed to pass the ball to the goal,’ said Mourinho. Ramires was blocked by Howard before Branislav Ivanovic headed Juan Mata’s free-kick over on 41 minutes.

But Everton took their chance, with Petr Cech and Ashley Cole at fault in the build-up. ‘We are not speaking about young kids,’ said Mourinho. But then Barkley’s quick feet fed Osman, whose cross picked out Nikica Jelavic at the far post. The Croat somehow kept the ball in as he headed across for Naismith, celebrating his 27th birthday, to direct home a close-range header.

Chelsea charged forward in the second half, with Schurrle’s chip nestling in the side netting. Then Eto’o met a cross tamely with his chest, allowing Howard to collect.

‘Eto’o scored hundreds of goals in his career like this,’ said Mourinho. ‘He appears at the near post and Goal! But it wasn’t a good touch.’

Mata was withdrawn on 57 minutes, bringing his total playing time in five games under Mourinho to just over two hours, and Schurrle followed, with Oscar and Frank Lampard asked to provide more incision. Oscar might have earned a penalty when sandwiched by two defenders. ‘If that is not a penalty, what is a penalty?’ asked Mourinho.

James McCarthy replaced Jelavic for his Everton debut on 65 minutes. Mourinho adjusted accordingly, bringing on Fernando Torres to play two up front and a back three.

But Everton thrived. A Mirallas free-kick was pushed wide by Cech before David Luiz wrestled Mirallas to the ground on 82 minutes. The defender was a long way out but only the covering run of John Obi Mikel could have convinced referee Howard Webb that a goalscoring opportunity had not been denied.

When Leighton Baines crashed a late free-kick against the bar, the only real question was whether Everton would add to their lead.

He found only Schurrle, who cut back for Eto'o to shoot into an open goal but as the striker eyed his first goal in English football, Barry slid in with perfect timing to deflect the ball behind.

The England international, out of favour at City, brings a wealth of experience greater and different to that of his fellow 32-year-old, midfield partner Leon Osman.

And it may have been his first outing with his new team-mates but Barry's positioning, reading of the game and general calmness under pressure gives the Toffees a first-rate shield in front of the back four.

Chelsea cranked up the pressure in the 15 minutes before the break with Howard saving Ramires' shot from an Eto'o pass, Schurrle firing over after Ramires' run and Branislav Ivanovic heading over Juan Mata's free-kick.

Martinez brought on £13million signing from Wigan James McCarthy to shore up the midfield at the expense of Jelavic with 25 minutes to go but Chelsea continued to threaten, with Ramires deflecting an Ivanovic cross into the side-netting.

Chelsea seemed to lose their way as Everton grew in confidence in the closing stages and David Luiz was booked for pulling down Mirallas as the Belgium international threatened to break clear on the halfway line.

Naismith departed to a standing ovation and took his seat in the dug-out to watch Leighton Baines clip the angle of post and crossbar with a 90th-minute free-kick.

TOP OF THE (INJURY) LEAGUE! CAZORLA RULED OUT UNTIL MID-OCTOBER WHILE GIROUD LIMPS OFF AT SUNDERLAND (BUT HE ASSURES FANS HE'S OK)

Arsenal face an injury crisis ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League opener against Marseille after Olivier Giroud hobbled off in the 3-1 win over Sunderland and Santi Cazorla has been ruled out for at least a fortnight. Germany forward Lukas Podolski is already sidelined with a long-term injury, leaving Arsene Wenger short on bodies up front.

Giroud was hurt trying to wrap his foot round a cross from Aaron Ramsey in the dying minutes of the convincing win at the Stadium of Light. The Frenchman - who scored the opening goal - instantly jumped up in pain and then went down in a heap before walking very gingerly off to be replaced by youngster Chuba Akpom. If Giroud is ruled out of Wednesday night’s Champions League opener then Wenger may opt to use winger Theo Walcott in a central striking role. Speaking after the game, Wenger said: 'Cazorla has an ankle problem I don’t think he will play before the next international break and will be out for at least a fortnight.' '[on Giroud] that's my worry after the game because we are very thin at the moment. He has a knee problem.

The Frenchman moved to Twitter as he aimed to play down some of the concerns, saying on his site: 'My knee is ok don't worry! Thanks for your support!'

LIST OF INJURED PLAYERS

Lukas Podolski - OUT (hamstring)

Yaya Sanogo - OUT (back)

Nicklas Bendtner - OUT (unfit)

Olivier Giroud - DOUBTFUL (knee)

Di Canio Laments over disallowed goal

The Black Cats were 2-1 down to Arsenal when Jozy Altidore had a goal disallowed, which the manager feels was a 'big mistake'

Paolo Di Canio criticised referee Martin Atkinson for a "big mistake" after he ruled out Jozy Altidore's goal in Sunderland's 3-1 defeat against Arsenal.

The Black Cats were 2-1 down at the Stadium of Light when the forward netted netted, but Atkinson had already blown for a foul on the United States international by Bacary Sagna outside the area.

The manager was later sent off for protesting against perceived time-wasting by Arsenal, and also angry that the Gunners defender was not sent off for preventing a clear goalscoring opportunity given that Altidore's shot did go in.

"This is a big mistake, it's obvious," Di Canio told BBC Sport. "This is not Paolo Di Canio's opinion. The referee has to wait and see how the action finishes.

"When it is body to body with Jozy Altidore and Bacary Sagna, he has to wait until how it finishes and not stop the game. It was a clear big, big mistake.

                     PREMIER LEAGUE FIXTURES 

                                 14/09 (SAT)

MAN UNITED                       12:45 VS              CRYSTAL PALACE

A’VILLA   FC                        15:00 VS              NEWCASTLE UNITED

FULHAM                                15:00 VS              WEST BROMWICH

HULL CITY                           15:00 VS              CARDIFF CITY

STOKE CITY                        15:00 VS              MANCHESTER CITY

SUND’LAND                          15:00 VS              ARSENAL FC

TOTTENHAM                       15:00 VS              NORWICH FC

EVERTON FC                       17:30 VS              CHELSEA FC

  

15/09 (SUN)

SOUTHAMPTON FC            16:00 VS              WEST HAM UNITED

  

16/09 (MON)

SWANSEA CITY FC             20:00 VS              LIVERPOOL FC

RIBERY IS EUROPE BEST PLAYER

The 26-year-old admits that the France international was a worthy winner of the one of the continent's most prestigious individual honours

Barcelona star Lionel Messi has conceded that Bayern Munich ace Franck Ribery deserved to win Uefa's Best Player in Europe award. The Argentine and Cristiano Ronaldo were pipped to the award at a Uefa ceremony in Monaco in August and the 26-year-old says Ribery's treble success with Bayern Munich meant the right man walked away with the prize. "It was an honour to be in this race again, among the best three players in Europe," he told Uefa. "There are so many great players in the world and it is a real pleasure to be in the competition, but he [Ribery] deserved to win the trophy."

The Blaugrana were humbled 7-0 on aggregate by the German giants en route to the Champions League crown last season. And while Messi admits that the defeat left a "bitter taste" in his mouth, he believes the team must not dwell on the past if they are to bounce back from last year's disappointment in Europe. "We always want to achieve more. Winning the league was very important because of what it signified – winning it back after Real Madrid had won it last year," he added. "There's also a bitter taste after what happened in the semi-final against Bayern München, where there was a big gap between the two teams – we didn't go into it in our best shape. But that's the past and we have to look forward."

The Catalans resume their Liga campaign following the international break by welcoming Sevilla to Camp Nou on Saturday.

NO TROPHY, I’M OUT; ARSENAL BOSS WENGER PUT CONTRACT TALKS ON HOLD

Arsene Wenger has said his future as Arsenal manager will be determined by the success or failure of a new team built around club record signing Mesut Ozil.

Wenger’s contract expires in June and, on the day he unveiled the £42.5million Germany midfielder, the Arsenal boss said his decision to extend his 17-year-old tenure will be based on whether there is a decent return on the club’s huge investment.

Asked on Thursday if he had opened talks over a new contract, the 63-year-old said: ‘We are in no hurry. We are in September and my contract finishes in June. There’s a long

way to go. There’s no need to plan.

'I’ve said many times I want to do well with this club and, in the end, I will sit down and think how well have I done with the team I have had. That has to be sufficient for me to decide yes or no.

‘One of the main judgments you can have about a manager is how well he does with his team.’

Ozil believes he can end the club’s eight-season trophy drought and insists his new side can compete for the Barclays Premier League title this season.

After leaving Real Madrid, Ozil insists he does not view his move to north London as a step down.

‘I’m not disappointed. I’m at Arsenal now, which is one of the biggest clubs in the world.

‘Of course I had a very good time in Madrid. I have lots of friends there and (had) lots of very good moments. Now I’m in the strongest league in the world and have to prove myself here to continue developing here. This is why I am at the right club.’

Ozil has also accused Real of disrespecting him as he vowed to end Arsenal’s trophy drought.

Real’s decision to part with Ozil has been criticised in Spain. Large sections of the club’s fans have voiced their disapproval at his departure while many of his former team-mates, including Cristiano Ronaldo, have spoken publicly about their shock at the club’s decision.

Ozil’s father Mustafa said yesterday legal action against Real president Florentino Perez was under review after he questioned the midfielder’s professionalism.

Ozil said: ‘People who know me know how professional I am and I think, in the past years, you can see how many games I played — 159 games. If you’re not professional in your life then I don’t think you can play that many games.

‘All the rumours, I don’t care about them. I have a new task here. I’m just looking ahead. I am in London now. We have big goals here and we will work very hard to reach these goals.

‘I don’t want to say anything bad about Madrid because I had three wonderful years there. We achieved a lot.

‘Why did Madrid let me go? I talked about this in the past. I did not get the respect and trust, it was a bit difficult.

‘When I spoke to Arsene on the phone, he was full of respect and as a player I need that. I feel that here, that is why I came here

‘I want to look ahead. I will have wonderful years here, hopefully I will win many trophies and stay healthy and this is what I look forward to.’

VILLAS-BOAS: GIVE HIM TIME TO ADAPT–HE DOESN’T EVEN SPEAK A WORD OF ENGLISH
The Spurs boss admit to Lamela’s struggle before delivering.

New £30million Spurs signing Erik Lamela will find it difficult to adapt to life in the Premier League because he doesn't speak a word of English, according to his manager Andre Villas-Boas. The Argentinian has spent the last two years in Italy playing for Roma, but now finds himself in a country where not only the football is very difficult, but also the language and culture. He's going to suffer problems of adaptation because he doesn't speak a word of English,' Villas-Boas said. He has to adapt to a completely different culture and mentality, which we are sure he will, but we're unsure of how much time it will take, but he will.

I think the qualities he brings are his creativeness, his ability to find the last pass that leads to a goal. He's a natural talent. He's not a pure, pure winger; he's creative and likes to come inside and find different spaces. He's a player with tremendous potential that we have to work on. 'He's a wonderful, gifted footballer. The fact he's yet to train with the team puts him in a very difficult position to start the game, but it is not impossible. For somebody so gifted, adapting shouldn't be a problem. Lamela just landed in England this morning, so he wasn't involved in training, but they're used to these kinds of trips and effort. I expect him to be involved in the game. The players on internationals trained very hard. Sigurdsson didn't train because of a dead leg, but most of the boys came back OK. We have had plenty of time to recover, so it gives us a chance to have enough sleep and recovery time. Andros Townsend joined up with the England squad for the first time in the last two weeks but the Spurs boss was unsure why Roy Hodgson didn't ask him first.

'I expressed my surprise that ideally I would have liked to have been consulted, although I understand Roy doesn't do it with any managers. 

'But I'm fine with the choices he makes.'

ADEBAYOR RELEGATED TO THE RESERVES

Emmanuel Adebayor has been excluded from the Tottenham first team and told to train with the club's reserves.

Tottenham were active in the transfer window, bolstering their forward line with the signings of Roberto Soldado and Erik Lamela as manager Andre Villas-Boas prepared for the eventual departure of winger Gareth Bale, who left for Real Madrid in a world-record move before the deadline. Soldado has already scored four goals since joining from Valencia, while Lamela and Jermain Defoe are both likely to be in competition for a place in the side. Adebayor has not featured in competitive action since being granted extended compassionate leave by the club following the death of his brother, and he is presently at home in Togo for personal reasons.  The 29-year-old had expressed confidence that he would cement a place in the starting XI, insisting last week that he would "be the first (choice)" despite the respective qualities of his new team-mates.
However, a quick return to the first team now appears unlikely for the former Arsenal and Manchester City man, with Villas-Boas revealing on Thursday that Adebayor has been instructed to train with the reserves. "At the moment Ade is not with us, because we have granted him authorisation to stay up until Monday in his country for personal reasons, so he's not going to be involved against Norwich (on Saturday)," Villas-Boas said. "Up to when I find it appropriate, he will train with the development team."
Adebayor joined Tottenham on loan from Manchester City in 2011 following a short-term stint with Real Madrid, finishing the 2011-12 campaign as the club's top scorer with 18 goals. The Togo international moved to White Hart Lane on a permanent deal in August 2012, but could not reproduce the same form last season, netting just eight times in 34 appearances.

Gareth Bale could make Madrid debut at left-back as Real hit by injuries
“I’m just looking forward to getting on the pitch and wherever the manager puts me I’ll be giving 100 per cent," says £86m man

Gareth Bale’s Madrid debut could be at left-back after he told Carlo Ancelotti he would ‘play anywhere’. The 24-year-old winger has been tipped to start on the bench for tomorrow night’s game against VillarreGareth Bale’s Madrid debut could be at left-back after he told Carlo Ancelotti he would ‘play anywhere’.

The 24-year-old winger has been tipped to start on the bench for tomorrow night’s game against Villarreal. But following injuries to Marcelo and Fabio Coentrao, the world’s most expensive player could be forced into an emergency role in defence. Bale said: “I’m just looking forward to getting on the pitch and wherever the manager puts me I’ll be giving 100 per cent. We have to wait until the match day to see whether I’m picked or not but hopefully I can get my fitness up straight away and get a place in the team. I feel good, I’ve been training last week with Wales I’ve had two good sessions today.  I got half an hour to 40 minutes game time with Wales and I’m feeling good but obviously I’m a bit behind physically than everybody else but hopefully I can catch up as soon as possible. I went straight away on international duty which probably wasn’t the best but I’ve been back for the last two days now.

Bale also spoke for the first time about that training ground meeting with Cristiano Ronaldo which made headlines around the world. The £166million handshake took place outside Madrid’s Valdebebas HQ. Bale said: “It was amazing.  He’s a nice guy, he made me feel welcome just like everybody else did, they made me feel settled straight away and I’m just looking forward to getting on the pitch and doing well. The boys have been very nice to me and made me settle quickly and it’s just an honour to be here. I think being at Real Madrid there’s pressure to win every game and everybody knows that. We’re all working hard on training and working hard on the pitch to achieve our goals and win everything we can.”

Asked about Madrid’s pursuit of a tenth European Cup which begins against Galatasaray on Tuesday night, Bale said: “I’ve learnt how to say it. Everyone wants to win trophies at Real Madrid, it’ll be like every other season at Real Madrid, trying to win every trophy we’re involved in and hopefully we’ll do so.”

DESTINATION ARSENAL FOR SEBASTIEN CORCHIA TAKES A STEP FORWARD

FRANCE Under-21 star Sebastien Corchia has hinted he could move to Arsenal in January.

The Gunners have been linked with a move for the Sochaux full-back - but a summer switch didn't happen. However, Corchia has indicated he could leave his club when the transfer window reopens. "I know what I have to do now during matches and I will see what happens in the next window," he told French newspaper l'Equipe. "[Leaving in the winter] could be a possibility and Sochaux will negotiate with interested clubs." The Gunners signed one young Frenchman during the summer, striker Yaya Sanogo.

ARSENAL PLAYER GRUMBLES OVER COMPETITION

Not everybody at Arsenal is excited by the deadline day additions.

If Mesut Ozil was the star of deadline day, Emiliano Viviano was firmly on the undercard as a supporting act. Arsenal secured the Italian international goalkeeper from Palermo on a season long loan, to provide competition for Wojciech Sczesny.

But not everybody is impressed. Step forward Lukasz Fabianski, who told Arsenal's official website: "I want to continue to fight for my place. It was frustrating to be out due to injury, it was not the first time and I lost my place. For me there is too much competition (stated in relation to the arrival of the goalkeeper Viviano), I'm older and I want to play on a regular basis. I want to play more; I have been competing for years for the number one place."

His comments are clear; he is unhappy and will be looking to move on if he is not granted greater opportunities. He of course says he will continue to fight for his place in the meantime, but if he is unsuccessful, as is expected to be the case, moving on seems like what he is hinting at.

Fabianski broke back into the Arsenal starting line-up last season with fellow Pole Szczesny dropped due to his own poor form. He then got injured allowing his younger teammate a chance to salvage his reputation, and Fabianski has not had a competitive opportunity since. Hei proved last season that he is far from the shaky error-prone goalkeeper he was when he arrived, turning into a reliable understudy, fitness aside. But, Arsene Wenger has clearly made his decision with regard to his goalkeeping spot, and Fabianski is not in his first team plans, seemingly third choice at best. It may be best for all parties if the 28-year-old is permitted to move on this coming January for the good of all parties. If Fabianski had not got injured at the end of last season, could he still have been the number one?

HE IS NOT STRONG–ZIDANE SAYS

The Frenchman has questioned if the 24-year-old had the determination to win a regular starting berth at the Santiago Bernabeu following the recruitment of similar players

 

Real Madrid assistant coach Zinedine Zidane has suggested that Mesut Ozil left the club because he lacked the "strength and will" to fight for his place in the team.

 

The Germany international was unveiled at Arsenal on Thursday, following his €47 million move on deadline day.

The Spanish giants boosted their attacking options over the summer with the high-profile acquisitions of Isco and Gareth Bale respectively, and Zidane has claimed that the Gunners new-boy lacked the stomach to compete for his selection in the starting line-up.

"Ozil decided to leave," he told the club's official channel. "He is a good player who has given us so much so we wish him well. There are players who have responded with strength and will to fight for a place, but not everyone reacted the same way. Angel Di Maria responded well and wanted to fight."

The Blancos travel to newly-promoted Villarreal in the Primera Liga on Saturday where €100 million recruit Bale could be handed his debut.

Eriksen set for debut against Norwich but Lamela a doubt, says Villas-Boas

Andre Villas-Boas has revealed Christian Eriksen is in line to make his Tottenham debut against Norwich, but Erik Lamela's involvement is in doubt.

The new midfielders arrived at White Hart Lane in August for a combined fee in excess of 47 million euros, with the Argentinian making his bow in the North London derby defeat to Arsenal, but the former Ajax man was not registered in time.

Villas-Boas is wary of the lack of time the new signings have spent with the squad following their recent arrivals but is keen to integrate them into the pace of the Premier League as soon as possible. "Will he [Eriksen] be in the lineup this weekend? There is a big possibility but it’s not a certainty yet," Villas-Boas told reporters. "The market finished last Monday and we signed three players that trained for the first time with us on Friday two weeks ago. They have since departed to international duty, and we’ve just seen him back [on Thursday].

"To train with the team, to have the experiences with their colleagues - for Eriksen, for Vlad [Chiriches] and Lamela - they haven’t had enough time to bond together so it’s something we have to work on."

The former Chelsea boss suggested Lamela is unlikely to start against Norwich, having not trained with his teammates despite featuring against Arsenal. "[Lamela] is going to suffer problems of adaptation, bearing in mind the fact that he doesn’t speak a word of English. He has to adapt to a completely different culture and mentality," he said. "Also the Premier League is very specific in its intensity. It’s nothing like the Argentinean league or Serie A, so that will require some kind of adaptation, but for somebody so gifted it shouldn’t be a problem. He is a wonderful, gifted footballer. "The fact that he’s yet to train with the team puts him in a very difficult position to start the game, but it’s not impossible."

Elsewhere, fellow new signing Vlad Chiriches is yet to have his work permit finalized, Gylfi Sigurdsson missed training Thursday with a dead leg and Emmanuel Adebayor has been granted extended leave due to "personal reasons."

NEWCASTLE HERO DAVID GINOLA PLEADS; FORGIVE CABAYE!

NEWCASTLE UNITED hero David Ginola firmly believes the fans should forgive Yohan Cabaye for his mistake in trying to engineer a summer move to Arsenal.

The Gunners saw their opening £10m bid for him rejected as they were quite a way off Newcastle's valuation of him. The midfielder who technically went on strike had his 'head turned' according to Alan Pardew on the eve of the game against Manchester City. And Ginola, who featured in the Steve Harper charity game last night, believes the fans should go easy on him. "He’s a great player – he’s done really good for the club," he told Sky Sports. You have to put things in perspective. Sometimes you make a mistake and you have to be forgiven for that. As soon as he steps back on the football pitch at St James’ Park he will wear the black and white shirt and that will be it, he will be back on track."

Alan Pardew has also been pleased with the players' response since the international break. "I have been very pleased with the player's reaction," Pardew told reporters at a news conference. "We have got great results from him and he's in good shape. I'm very pleased and he has duty to the French team and his club with full responsibility."

SPURS VS UNITED FOR COENTRAO?

Who will win the mouth washing battle for Coentrao as Spurs and United go head-to-head for the stunning left back?

Coentrao was sad for not making the deadline day loan move to Manchester United due to Carlo Ancelotti’s change of heart and a need of a left back to compete with Marcelo. There’s a possibility that the left back could leave the Bernabeu stadium come January, but the club that is fancied to be on his mind is the Red Devils.

Tottenham Hotspur could go head-to-head with Manchester United for the left-back Fabio Coentrao in January, according to reports in Portugal. It was recently reported in Portuguese newspaper Diário de Notícas that Andre Villas-Boas wants two new additions in the January transfer window, with Coentrao at the top of his transfer agenda. Spurs had a busy summer in which they brought in Etienne Capoue, Erik Lamela, Paulinho, Roberto Soldado, Nacer Chadli and Christian Eriksen, as well as making other signings. Manchester United narrowly missed out on signing Coentrao on transfer deadline day, as David Moyes sought to bring in someone to challenge Patrice Evra at left-back.

ROONEY FANCIES A SLIM CHANCE FOR THE MANCHESTER DERBY

The Manchester United striker that was a reason for debates during the transfer window, who also impressed critics during the match against his suitors–Chelsea; fancies a slim chance for the Manchester derby as he is currently battling with head injury

 

Manchester United forward Wayne Rooney has returned to the club following his unscheduled break due to a head injury, but he is yet to resume full training with the team. This is a cause for concern for fans with the Englishman only having an outside chance of featuring in the Manchester derby on the 22nd of September. Rooney hurt himself during an accidental collision with team mate Phil Jones almost a fortnight ago and since then has been out of action for club and country.

The Englishman is certain to miss the Premier League game at home to Crystal Palace and is pretty unlikely to play in the Champions League encounter against Bayer Leverkusen at Old Trafford next week. While the absence of Rooney would spell disaster for manager David Moyes, it might result in increased chances for either Shinji Kagawa or Javier Hernandez with both men undoubtedly hoping to get the nod to play alongside primary striker Robin Van Persie. Also in line is United’s only first team signing of the summer, Marouane Fellaini, who might make his debut against Ian Holloway’s side this Saturday.

FELLAINI: THE VILLAIN WHO AIMS TO BE THE HERO OF THE TEAM

It was the standard speech of a player who has just joined Manchester United , but with one slight difference. Marouane Fellaini talked about wanting to win the league with his new club. Unlike other recruits, however, the Belgian starts not with zero titles, arguably, but with minus one.

But for him, United would probably have been champions in 2012. Were it not for him, too, they would not have suffered a false start to last season's successful campaign. When he last played at Old Trafford, United afforded him a man-marker. The cliche is 'if you can't beat them, join them'; where Fellaini is concerned, perhaps that should be adapted to: “If you can't stop them, sign them.”

A status as United's nemesis was established in April 2012 when Everton, 3-1 and 4-2 down, recovered to draw 4-4. Fellaini scored their second goal and set up their fourth; as United lost eight points in four games, it was a pivotal result.

He began last season by heading a winner against United. So when Everton visited Manchester in February, he had his own personal escort: Phil Jones followed him all over the pitch, trying to reduce the match to a 10-a-side game while the Belgian and his bodyguard watched on.

So as Fellaini prepares to make his United debut against Crystal Palace tomorrow, perhaps his new employers' prospects have already improved. Simply because they do not have to face him, United may argue they will take more points.

Yet the £27.5 million (Dh159.6m) midfielder starts both at an advantage and at a disadvantage. United are all too aware of who he is - an uncompromising, idiosyncratic force who has exposed their lack of physical power - but it is also a question of who he isn't: the statement signing, the superstar they wanted.

Fellaini is the fifth most expensive player in United's history. Even that, however, is deceptive, a proof of further failure. He had a £23.5m release clause that expired on July 31; United did not activate it and ended up paying an extra £4m.

The delay was all the odder as David Moyes, previously his manager at Everton, knew precisely what he was getting.

"He's been one of the best midfielders in the Premier League over the last few seasons," the Scot said. "He can play higher up, behind the striker or as a defensive midfielder."

His versatility offers options but provides uncertainty. The reality is that Fellaini's finest form for Everton came when playing just off the main striker, his height making him an unconventional attacking weapon. Yet Wayne Rooney is earmarked for that role at Old Trafford. United's need is greatest in the centre of midfield where they were timid in defeat to Liverpool. Fellaini is altogether more competitive.

Yet a survey of United's midfield targets this summer - including Cesc Fabregas, Thiago Alcantara, Daniele de Rossi and Wesley Sneijder - suggests Moyes' priority was to inject creativity. Fellaini has proved he can deliver goals. The test is to show he can be a penetrative passer from a deeper position. As it is, the expectation is that Moyes will resume his search for midfielders in January. "I think that's an area where everybody felt we could do with strengthening," the manager said. Truth be told, they still do. Fellaini will be compared with men they failed to sign this summer and those they could buy in the New Year. As one of Moyes' former charges, he has to shake off suggestions his move was proof of nepotism. As a late arrival, he has to disprove theories why he ranked some way down the list of targets. An expensive addition starts not with a clean slate, but with an initial impediment.

Reds handed boost ahead of Swansea trip with Sturridge on course to feature

Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge could be fit for the resumption of the Barclays Premier League campaign against Swansea.

The 24-year-old, who despite struggling with a thigh injury scored the winner against Manchester United almost a fortnight ago, had to pull out of England’s World Cup qualifiers against Moldova and Ukraine because of injury.

Sturridge has been undergoing rehabilitation at the club’s Melwood training ground ever since but is not scheduled to train for the first time until Saturday ahead of the match in south Wales on Monday evening.

However, it is understood Liverpool remain optimistic about his progress and believe the forward, who has scored in each of their opening three league matches to fire the Reds to the top of the table, has a good chance of facing Michael Laudrup’s side.

Manager Brendan Rodgers is likely to make a decision on whether to include the England international who has five goals in four appearances this season and has scored 16 in 20 matches since joining from Chelsea in January, late on at the weekend.

There is slightly better news concerning Glen Johnson, who limped off with an ankle injury against United.

Despite reports he could be out for 10 to 12 weeks, Liverpool did not put a timescale on his recovery but it seems the diagnosis is more positive. 'Injury doesn’t seem as bad as first thought, hopefully be back sooner than originally expected! £BetterNews,' the England international wrote on Twitter.

'Thank you everyone for the ‘Get well’ messages.' Johnson is likely to be out for around five more weeks and in his absence Rodgers has a decision to make over how to compensate for the loss of the right-back.

England Under-21 captain Andre Wisdom came on for Johnson against United and having initially been lined up for a loan spell that prospect has now diminished.

The Reds boss also has the option of switching to three at the back as summer signing Kolo Toure, impressive in his first two matches before missing the United game through injury, is ready to return. Martin Skrtel deputised excellently on his first appearance of the season and it would be as difficult omit him against Swansea as it would Toure.

Liverpool’s strength in the centre of defence was increased by the signing late last month of Paris St-Germain’s Mamadou Sakho, who could be set for his first inclusion in the squad on Monday.

MOURINHO IS YET TO SOLVE CHELSEA’S PROBLEM

Jose Mourinho spent £63million in the transfer market this summer to kick-start his second spell as Chelsea boss, bringing in the likes of Andre Schurrle, Willian, Marco Van Ginkel, Mark Schwarzer, Samuel Eto’o, Christian Atsu and Cristian Cuevas. But the Portuguese hasn’t resolved what the Blues’ leading issue was since the start of the summer–the need for a guaranteed, reliable goal scorer. The footballing world is well aware that the returning Blues manager missed out on his single priority target in the summer transfer window. Capitalising on David Moyes’ vagueness over Wayne Rooney’s importance to Manchester United, the Special One described his summer transfer policy in a nutshell as ‘Rooney or bust’. It took the first heavyweight clash of the season, Chelsea’s scoreless draw with the Premier League champions in which the England international participated, to finally convince the West London outfit and the British media that despite intense speculation stating otherwise, Rooney wasn’t for sale, but even so, it appeared from the offset there would be a limit to how much Mourinho was willing to pay for the United forward.

And with the summer’s leading three striking properties – Edinson Cavani, Radamel Falcao and Robert Lewandowski – deciding their allegiances early on in the transfer window, Chelsea’s need for a prolific goal scorer was not fulfilled. Therefore, Mourinho turned to an old ally in Samuel Eto’o, whom he claimed the treble with at Inter Milan, as a last minute solution following reports from Russia that former club Anzhi were holding a fire-sale of all their high-earning imported talents.

 

The Cameroon international brings great quality and experience, but he doesn’t solve Chelsea’s striking conundrum. Last season, the Blues were found wanting up front, with Fernando Torres finding just eight Premier League goals all season and Demba Ba netting on two lonesome occasions in 14 appearances since his £7million move from Newcastle in January. Rather than providing any particular improvement however, Eto’o is simply another striker thrown into the mix. The former Barcelona and Inter Milan man has been written-off too early by some considering he’s maintained an average of 0.5 goals per game throughout his three years with Anzhi, but to suggest we’ll see the kind of form that produced 108 goals in 140 La Liga appearances at the Nou Camp would be equally as unjustified.

Eto’o is only 32 years of age, and the best estimate of his current abilities lies somewhere in between. A realistic hope in terms of output from the Cameroonian this season would probably be eight to twelve Premier League goals. But perhaps that’s all the Blues need if Mourinho can get the balance right between three centre-forwards that appear to have almost parallel status in the Stamford Bridge pecking order. The Portuguese will be hoping he can push Fernando Torres to become a more reliable entity up front domestically after netting nine goals in Europe last season, and although Demba Ba has endured a slow start in West London, a record of 36 goals in 66 English top flight appearances from spells with Newcastle and West Ham speaks for itself.

There was a time when Manchester United underwent a similar challenge, although unlike Chelsea their strikers had maintained strong goal-scoring form. From the mid-90′s to around 2001, the Red Devils’ forward line was rotated between Andy Cole, Dwight Yorke, Teddy Sherringham and Ole Gunnar-Solskjaer to great effect, with none particular dominating in terms of appearances but all producing goals on a regular basis. The internal competition brought out the best in them, and Mourinho will expect a similar benefit from having Eto’o, Torres and Ba fight over the lone striking slot in the Chelsea starting XI. But at this point, it’s hard to suggest any will exceed the 15 goal mark. That being said, perhaps it’s not exclusively goals Mourinho is looking for. Priority target Wayne Rooney has only scored 15 goals or more for three of his eleven seasons in the top flight, and having the ability to link up with Chelsea’s exceptionally talented midfield will be just as important as lethality in front of goal for any of Chelsea’s striking trio. Eden Hazard, Kevin de Bruyne, Frank Lampard, Juan Mata, Willian and Oscar are all established goal-scoring midfielders, three of whom hit double figures domestically last season, and from what we’ve seen in Chelsea’s opening three Premier League fixtures, the attacking midfield hub still remains the Blues’ most integral on-pitch department.

Mourinho has charged Hazard – who netted nine times in the Premier League last season – with improving his scoring record this year, and although the Belgian is yet to get off the mark in the Premier League, I anticipate he will better the level of output from his first campaign in West London. But it does put Chelsea at a distinct disadvantage in comparison to their two Manchester rivals. United can claim a strike force composed of last season’s top scorer Robin Van Persie, along with Wayne Rooney, Javier Hernandez and Danny Welbeck, whilst City have bolstered considerably up front this summer and now have four leading forwards in Edin Dzeko, Alvaro Negredo, Segie Augero and Stevan Jovetic, all of whom could stake a claim to a first team slot. It is, after all, goals that decide games, and the more strikers at your disposal, the higher chance of getting a goal, especially under difficult circumstances. And it’s that lack of cutting edge up front, that lack of faith in any particular one of Chelsea’s strikers to come up with last minute goal when they most need it that could prove the most detrimental to the Blues’ title hopes this season.

WE ARE NO GUNNERS AND WE HAVE NO DEVILS, BUT THE SKY IS FOR THE BLUES

In Ghana, football is considered the greatest sport on earth - it is football season all year, every year. So it is no surprise that football is a popular search query on Google Search.

On Thursday, Google announced the top ten most searched football teams in Ghana and it revealed that the Chelsea Football club reigns supreme as the most searched FC on Google in August.

In 2005, Chelsea bought Ghanaian football star Michael Essien for $24.4 million dollars, one of the most expensive transactions involving a Ghanaian player. This transaction made Chelsea FC a household name in Ghana and expanded the club’s Ghanaian fanbase considerably. Eight years on, Chelsea is still Ghana’s football club.

Also on the list on the top ten most searched Football Clubs in Ghana are Manchester United, Arsenal, Barcelona, Real Madrid and Liverpool.

See teams list Below

1.  Chelsea

2.  Manchester United

3.  Arsenal

4.  Barcelona

5.  Real Madrid

6.  Liverpool

7.  AC Milan

8.  Bayern Munich

9.  Manchester City

10. Tottenham

ROBBEN FUMES OVER INJURIES

The Netherlands star is disheartened that three important players are ruled out already ahead of a challenging part of the campaign for the Bavarians

Bayern Munich winger Arjen Robben is worried about the absence of important players in his team ahead of a busy stage of the season. Mario Gotze, Thiago Alcantara and Javi Martinez are still suffering from injury and have been ruled out for the encounters against Hannover on Saturday and the first Champions League clash against CSKA Moscow on Tuesday. And the 29-year-old feels it is going to be challenging to compensate for those losses in the upcoming weeks. "Now it begins," the Dutchman told reporters on Thursday. "We need all our players. It's a pity that three important players are ruled out already."

The Bavarians have recently presented the team's new away jerseys for the 2013-14 season, which are inspired by traditional Oktoberfest outfits. "I hope that we will be able to win our first game in the new jerseys," Robben added. Bayern face a heavily congested fixture list, with seven games coming up between September 14 and October 5 before the international break.

GONE ARE THE DAYS–KAHN TELLS BARCELONA

The former Germany star claims the Blaugrana's performance in the Champions League last term has demonstrated that they are past their best.

Barcelona's era of dominance in football is over, according to Bayern Munich legend Oliver Kahn. The Blaugarana won three Ligas, two Champions League titles and two Copa del Rey trophies under then-coach Pep Guardiola who is now at Bayern.

Kahn believes Guardiola will be able to keep the treble winners at the top in football, despite many experts predicting Barca to bounce back under Gerardo Martino and the signing of Neymar. "I believe that Barcelona's best days are over,” Kahn told TV Movie. "There are no dominant teams in Europe which a German side must fear. The formative success of Bayern calls for a change and new ideas. I think the team will find a solution to this task with their many intelligent players."

Barca faces Sevilla at Camp Nou this weekend before turning their focus towards their Champions League opener with Ajax on September 18.

Mayweather the ring king is turning heat on cool Kid in Las Vegas

The last of my breed. That is how the best boxer in the world describes himself.

Arrogant, maybe, but The One, as he is being billed in Las Vegas on the eve of the biggest fight of this century, is by no means alone in that opinion of himself.

‘The Last Great American Prizefighter’ is how Floyd Mayweather is headlined in one US magazine which has devoted its glossy pages to this hundred-million-dollar blockbuster.

The question waiting to be answered tomorrow night is whether Mayweather’s successor to the throne of the pound-for-pound king is to be a red-headed young man who looks like an Irish-American slugger but who speaks little English.

Saul Alvarez is a 23-year-old Mexican who turned professional at 15. As a consequence of starting so young he has only one fewer fight on his unbeaten c.v. — 43 — than the legendary veteran. Mayweather is dismissive of ‘Canelo’, the Spanish word for cinnamon by which Alvarez is known in reference to his ginger hair.

Does the man who calls himself Money give his opponent any credit at all for helping sell this match made in box-office heaven? ‘Yeah, I give him credit . . . for turning up,’ says Mayweather. Canelo is also a world champion but the mighty Floyd says: ‘There are too many belts now. That taints the game. These kids get titles too soon, too easy.’ 

Despite his new-era wealth — he does not deny having more than $125million in only one of his bank accounts and is thought to be worth half a billion — Mayweather is old-school when it all comes down to the harsh reality of the boxing. ‘I’ve got here the hard way,’ he says. ‘Years of work, training, dedication, fighting and beating the best fighters out there.’

Not even the severest critics of his loadsamoney lifestyle can deny that this ethic of commitment is Mayweather’s saving grace. ‘I work my ass off so I can beat these young guys,’ he says. ‘I’m devoted to my craft.’ 

That is why he is still at the peak of his game at 36. That is what earns him the right to tomorrow’s guaranteed minimum purse of $41.5m (£26m).

I was among many who admired the masterclass Mayweather put on while winning his last fight, against the tough Robert Guerrero. While he enjoys the compliment, he reports himself dissatisfied with that performance: ‘I only gave myself a D that night. I was not impressed with myself. It was my first fight for a year, my first after coming out of prison. I’ll show you something better this time. I can’t predict the future but I can tell you that Canelo can’t beat me.’ The Cinnamon Kid is unabashed. Alvarez is calmer than any opponent in recent memory on the eve of doing battle with Mayweather, even though he acknowledges that ‘of course Floyd is the best boxer in the world’. But he adds: ‘At the moment.’ 

Does the scale of the task not worry him? ‘Every fight is dangerous,’ he says. ‘This one is no different. Any fight can be changed by one punch.’ There is no such thing as a tender age in the tough barrio in Guadalajara where Canelo and his six brothers grew up boxing. Mayweather, he too comes from the old school of hard knocks. That special edition of ESPN magazine headlines Alvarez as ‘The Last Best Contender’. Between them, he and The Last Great  American Prizefighter hold the future of boxing in their gloved hands.

Mayweather v Alvarez will be shown live in Britain on BoxNation.

Cristiano Ronaldo welcomes Gareth Bale; Welshman prepares for Real Madrid debut

Gareth Bale shakes hands with the man he surpassed as the world's most expensive footballer as he gets ready to make his Real Madrid bow.The £165million pair didn't appear to be too concerned over whose transfer fee was bigger as players returned from the international break

Spanish media famously claimed that Bale's £85million transfer was in fact £76million, therefore not beating the £80million record set when Cristiano Ronaldo joined Real Madrid in 2009.

But there appeared to be no tension over who cost more at training today as the two met having returned from international action.

Bale could make his debut on Saturday as Real Madrid visit Villarreal.

Yet he's unlikely to play 90 minutes after only coming on as a substitute for Wales against Serbia last night and having missed nearly all of pre-season through injury

PICTURES: Mesut Ozil links up with Arsenal squad for first training session

MESUT OZIL has trained with Arsenal for the first time today, ahead of Saturday's trip to Sunderland

Ozil is expected to make his Arsenal debut at the Stadium of Light, with Arsene Wenger short of midfield options.

The £42.5million signing from Real Madrid took part in his first training session at London Colney today, as he linked up with his new team-mates.

Ozil stuck close to German compatriots Lukas Podolski and Per Mertesacker during the session, posing for a snap with the pair.
Wenger and assistant manager Steve Bould kept a close eye on the 24-year-old and the rest of the squad, who were put through their paces after returning from international duty.

Despite a losing start to the season, Arsenal responded with back-to-back wins and Ozil's arrival has further improved the mood at the Emirates.

And Kieran Gibbs and Santi Cazorla have led the praise for the Germany international, with the pair excited at his signing. "It is a statement to what the club want to do and what the club want to achieve," said Gibbs. "It is something that everyone has been waiting for so now we have a big signing to help push us to the next level. He has got a clinical side to him and technically he is world-class. He is going to create a lot of problems for opposition we come up against." Cazorla described Ozil as a 'spectacular player' and questioned why Real Madrid allowed him to leave. "I am very happy that Ozil is here," Cazorla said. "He is a spectacular player and we are very lucky that we are going to learn alongside him.

Emmanuel Adebayor needs love

Darren Lewis believes football can act as a release for the Togo striker after the death of his brother Peter

Emmanuel Adebayor managed to raise a few eyebrows this week with his claim that he could fight his way back to first choice at Spurs .

As unrealistic statements go it seemed up there with Roy Hodgson's insistence that England's goalless draw in Ukraine was a "game of good quality".

Or the bloke pictured offering out the police horse pleading not guilty.

By the end of Adebayor's confessional, however, his ambition didn't seem so ridiculous at all.

Not only that, it struck me as far more appropriate for the Togo striker to declare his intention to fight for the Tottenham shirt than to simply accept his wages and do nothing to justify them this season.

Indeed for all the players drafted in to the new Spurs this summer , you do wonder whether it is the fallen that could grow mighty over the coming campaign at White Hart Lane.

The idea of Adebayor forcing his way back from the brink to present himself as a serious rival to £26million Spain striker Roberto Soldado really is an intriguing prospect.

Spurs wanted him out this summer. They offered the 29-year-old Togo striker to anyone willing to have him.

They had an audacious swap bid for Chelsea's Fernando Torres rejected.

They offered Adebayor to Real Madrid as part of the Gareth Bale deal.

They accepted interest from QPR, Schalke and Besiktas.

Yet word coming out of Adebayor's camp each time was that he was not moving. And why should he?

You or I would not walk away from kind the contract he is on at White Hart Lane. (It never ceases to amaze me when fans suggest footballers should turn their backs on the kind of money they never would).

Adebayor was on around £170,000-a-week at Manchester City and both clubs had to make sure they found a way to maintain his hefty salary (he had two years left to run at City) before he would even agree to a permanent four-year switch to Spurs last summer in the first place.

Adebayor had finished the previous campaign at White Hart Lane, on loan, with 17 Premier League goals. Last season the goals dried up with just five in the Premier League and three in the Europa League.

His languid style has never been anyone's cup of tea and he is prone to missing more than a few sitters.

But when he is on his game, Adebayor is unplayable.

Arsenal found that out in last season's derby before an adrenaline rush too many saw him sent off and the Gunners went on to cash in.

The point is, Roberto Soldado could be the spur, the classy competition that Adebayor needs to recapture the animal he became on that Saturday afternoon at the Emirates last November.

Last season his only real rival was the diminutive Jermain Defoe, the pint-sized finisher who knows where the goal is but lacked the physical presence - in the view of Andre Villas Boas - to make the lone striker's role his own.

As a result Adebayor knew that whatever he did last term he would play when he was fit. AVB needed his muscle in preference to Defoe's willingness and endeavour.

This season, Soldado provides everything that Adebayor is able to offer and more. Those who watch him regularly in Spain say that, despite his impressive goal ratio, he too is not immune to missing a few sitters.

But Spurs believe he offers more cutting edge on a consistent basis and has a better attitude, hence their club record £26million outlay.

So the gauntlet has been thrown down to Adebayor who has declared himself ready to accept.

To be fair, we should put the whole thing into stark perspective by pointing out that it comes after the death of Adebayor's brother Peter.

It is the latest tragedy to hit the Spurs star in three years after three members of his national team's set-up were killed in those terrorist shootings at the 2010 Africa Caup of Nations in Angola.

There really is more to life and you do wonder whether Adebayor has had the respect or the compassion that such massive blows in his life deserve.

The football could well come as a release to him this season. The battle for that striking berth could be the catharsis that enables him to overcome the latest loss in his life.

It clearly isn't as simple as the football for Adebayor right now. But the last thing he needs is exile. He needs to be loved. He needs to be appreciated. He needs to be supported.

And he might just be ready to give something special back to the Spurs fans in return.

Sports minister calls for clubs to make football more affordable with cheaper ticket prices

Sports minister Hugh Robertson says football clubs must do "all they can" to ensure families and others are able to afford matches.Hugh Robertson says while a fall in overall costs is welcome, more needs to be done to ensure families don't miss out

While admitting it's not up to the government to dictate what the prices are, he believes clubs appear to be adjusting costs following long periods of rises.

Mr Robertson's comments come after the BBC's Price of Football survey showed that the average price of a ticket across the top four leagues has fallen by 2.4 per cent.

"It is good news for fans but it does come after a long period of incremental rises year on year," he told the news provider.

"The key thing is that it is replicated in years to come. I think clubs are beginning to understand what fans are going through and to adjust their prices accordingly.

"It's not for the Government to tell individual clubs where to price their tickets but I just hope clubs across the board seek to do all they can to make football an affordable pursuit for individuals and for families."

Attendances in the Football League did fall by an average of five per cent from 9,949 per match in 2011-12 to 9,481 in 2012-13 - perhaps explaining the drop.

Arsenal remains the most expensive place to watch football in the UK, with the most expensive match-day ticket set at £126.

Ozil gets to work on his first day training with Arsenal... but his family are threatening to SUE former club Real Madrid over claims his form suffered because he spent time 'chasing' Miss Venezuela

By JOHN EDWARDS

Mesut Ozil’s family are threatening to sue Real Madrid chairman Florentino Perez over claims that a relationship with a South American beauty queen was affecting the midfielder’s form at the Bernabeu.

Ozil’s father Mustafa launched a blistering attack on Perez, as his son was unveiled as Arsenal’s record signing and trained at London Colney, and confirmed that legal action against the Real president was under review.

He hit out amid Spanish newspaper reports claiming that Perez felt Ozil’s performances for Real had suffered due to his liaisons with former Miss Venezuela, Aida Yespica

Ozil Snr was also angered by suggestions that personal greed on his part had been behind the Germany playmaker’s big-money move from Madrid to the Emirates.

‘It is clear Perez is not a man of honour,’ he fumed. ‘He may have a lot of money, but that does not make him an honourable person. 

'He tries to pretend that Mesut has not lived a professional lifestyle in Madrid and that I am a father who is only interested in money. Both are completely untrue, and that is why I am thinking of suing.

‘We will consider all steps. The lawyers will check whether it would make sense to take this further, and then we will decide on whether to take legal action.

‘He wants to turn Mesut into a scapegoat and portray me as the greedy parent, when nothing could be further from the truth. We are ready to defend ourselves, because all I want is what is best for my son. That has always been my outlook and always will be.’

Liverpool legend Ian Rush: I’d love to see Luis Suarez left on the bench

LIVERPOOL legend Ian Rush is hoping Luis Suarez will be starting on the bench when he returns to the Anfield star.

The 51-year-old thinks teams will be running scared if Suarez is left fighting for his first team place, as it'll mean Liverpool will be in rude health.

The Merseyside outfit have had a dream start to their Premier League campaign, having kept three consecutive clean sheets against Stoke, Aston Villa and Manchester United.

The Uruguayan international is yet to feature for the side as he still has to serve two games of the ten match ban he was given last season for biting Chelsea’s Branislav Ivanovic.

And Rush hopes Liverpool can keep Suarez on the bench as the team sit top of the league.

Speaking on TalkSPORT, he said: "For me, in an ideal world, after six games [of the season] when Suarez is back, I’d love to see him left out because that would mean the team is winning and he has to fight for his place.

"There’s no doubt Suarez will get back in, but what a sight that would be for the opposition if Liverpool are not playing well and they see Suarez coming on.

"We’re looking forward to that."

NOT AGAIN!

Arsenal suffers injury worries after international break

Having had bids for Luis Suarez and Gonzalo Higuain and Demba Ba fail during the transfer window, Arsene Wenger now has to contend with losing rookie Yaya Sanogo during international duty. The France under-21s star is facing intensive treatment back in north London after suffering a back injury during the country's triumph over Kazakhstan, but doesn't ultimately look serious.

Arsenal have also lost experienced German star Lukas Podolski for three months, leaving just Olivier Giroud and Theo Walcott as their experienced attacking options. And Nicklas Bendtner, whose move away from the club was scuppered at the last moment on deadline day, is still several weeks away from match fitness.

It follows the news the club will be without Tomas Rosicky who suffered a suspected thigh strain injury on international duty for the Czech Republic. Arsenal are looking thin up front after losing Yaya Sanogo” There were also initial scares for Walcott after he was scythed down from behind and had to be helped off the field by medical staff in the 62nd minute of the England World Cup qualifier last night. The attacking midfielder was able to continue for a further 25 minutes, before being subbed for Tom Cleverley in the 86th minute.

The recently injured Arsenal stars join team-mates Thomas Vermaelen (back), Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (Knee), Mikel Arteta (Thigh) and Abou Diaby (knee) on the out of action list.

LEAVE NOW OR YOU PAY FOR IT

Park Chu-Young advised to leave arsenal and get another club for first team game to bolster his international career chances.

The 28-year-old, who arrived at the Gunners from Monaco in 2011, has failed to establish himself in the first-team making one Premier League appearance and netting only once in the League Cup against Bolton Wanderers.

 

Myung-Bo left Park out of his latest South Korea squad and believes the striker must quit Arsenal if he wants to continue to add to his 23 goals at international level. "Park knows what he has to do," he told the Korea Herald. He must find a new team if he wants to remain in the national team” South Korea coach Hong Myung-Bo. Park spent last season on-loan at Spanish club Celta Vigo, but again failed to recapture any consistent goalscoring form netting only four times in 25 appearances. The striker was included in Arsene Wenger's 25-man Premier League squad for the new season, despite not featuring for the club for over a year. Park's chances at the Emirates Stadium could increase due to the back injury suffered by Yaya Sanogo, however he will remain behind first choice striker Olivier Giroud in the Gunners' pecking order.

NIGERIA DESTROY BURKINA FASO

The African champions confirmed their supremacy over Paul Put's Stallions in Tuesday's international friendly played in Kaduna

The Super Eagles proved that their victory over Burkina Faso in the Africa Cup of Nations played earlier this year was no fluke as they silenced the Stallions 4-1 in an international friendly played at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium on Tuesday.

A first half brace from Brown Ideye plus second half goals from Shola Ameobi and Emmanuel Emenike were all the reigning African champions needed to send their boastful west African neigbours back home empty-handed.

Despite fielding just four players from the team that silenced Malawi 2-0 on Saturday, the Super Eagles ran riot against their Burkina Faso counterpart in a capacity filled Ahmadu Bello Stadium.

Burkina Faso came into this encounter with ambition of avenging their painful lose in South Africa and also to record their first win ever over the Super Eagles but that did not see the light of the day as they were completely outplayed by Stephen Keshi’s men who are still basking in the euphoria of qualifying for the Brazil 2014 Fifa World Cup play-offs.

The game which saw Newcastle forward, Shola Ameobi get his first start in the green and white jersey was only 13 minutes old before Brown Ideye capitalised on poor defending by the Stallions to put Nigeria ahead. The Eagles could have gone two goals up three minutes later but Obinna Nsofor could not beat the goalie after the Burkinabe defence failed to deal with a cross.

Nigeria dominated all departments of the match but could have conceded an equaliser in the 32^nd minute but there was no one to connect to Yameogo’s effort after the Eagles were caught unawares by the visitors. Ideye got his second of the evening when he beat goalkeeper Laré Mohamed Diarra following a great foot work from John Ogu who displaced three defenders before a sending a sublime pass to the Dynamo Kiev man for a cool finish.

On resumption of the second half, Keshi’s men continued to push forward for more goals and soon got the result when impressive Shola Ameobi got his first international goal and the third of the game thanks to Ideye and Nsofor who combined effectively to feed the Newcastle attacker who beat a helpless Diarra.

At this point, the Super Eagles looked to be coasting home to victory with their impressive soccer artistry. Ten minutes after his introduction in the game, 63^rd minutes to be precise, Emmanuel Emenike made presence count by adding the fourth with drive similar to Ameobi’s strike with the assist coming from Lazio man, Ogenyi Onazi.

The Stallions however got a consolation through Simpore in the 78^th minute. He had a simple tap in at the back of the post following a cross from the left which beat the Super Eagles defenders.

Brazil sinks Portugal: Neymar stars as Scolari's men triumph

After the Canarinho went behind, the Barcelona forward set up the equaliser before scoring a stunning solo effort to put his side on their way to a comfortable victory

Neymar was in inspired form as Brazil showed their strength of character to come from behind to defeat Portugal 3-1 at the Gillette Arena.

The former Santos man scored once and provided an assist, while also having a hand in Brazil's third goal, as the upcoming World Cup hosts recovered from going 1-0 down early on.

Raul Meireles, who had hit the woodwork six minutes earlier with a header, put Portugal in front in the 18th minute after capitalising on a defensive mistake from Maicon.

The Roma right-back attempted to head the ball back to his goalkeeper Julio Cesar, but Fenerbahce midfielder was quick to seize the opportunity  - with the former Chelsea man intercepting with a touch, before tucking away the opener.

But Neymar came to the rescue, putting in the corner that found the forehead of Thiago Silva, before dribbling into the box and tucking away into the left-hand corner of the net to put the South Americans in front at half-time.

Just four minutes after the break, Neymar put through left back Maxwell, who crossed for Jo to score his third goal of the week after a brace against Australia.

It was very crisp passing from the Brazilians, who were putting on a show for the American fans and Jo was handed another international goal on a plate after Portugal goalkeeper Rui Patricio was drawn off his line.

Meanwhile, all of Portugal's chances were being wasted by winger Nani, who struck two free-kicks well over the crossbar and had another two audacious shots from range that were not close to bothering Cesar.

The result sees Brazil stay unbeaten in their last three clashes with Portugal.

Austria sink Ireland: It's all over for Ireland

IRELAND’S World Cup dream is over after David Alaba’s late goal in Vienna.

By Daily Star reporter

The Republic began their game six points adrift of Sweden in the battle for second place and knowing they needed a win to keep their play-off hopes alive.

That was because Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s goal after just 27 seconds had given the Swedes a 1-0 victory over Kazakhstan in an early kick-off.

But Giovanni Trapattoni’s side were frustrated for long periods by Austria before Alaba stuck the dagger into Irish hearts on 84 minutes.

 

Ireland started brightly with skipper Robbie Keane and strike-partner Shane Long keeping the Austrian defence on its toes.

Anthony Pilkington almost marked his full debut with a goal but just failed to get a touch on John O’Shea’s flick from James McCarthy’s free-kick

“Bayern Munich star Alaba was deadly as the visitors failed to clear a cross from the left”

Austrian dangerman Alaba then started to take the game by the scruff of the neck and almost set up Guido Burgstaller with a deep cross.

Burgstaller also saw a long-range effort blocked by Richard Dunne as Austria pushed for the win they needed to keep their own World Cup dreams intact.

And Ireland goalkeeper David Forde was then forced to make a smart save to block Alaba’s drive, before denying Martin Harnik.

Trapattoni’s side were again in control at the start of the second period but once again their shooting was wayward, with Jon Walters blazing over.

Austria remained a threat and Christian Fuchs should have done better than blast straight at Forde.

But Bayern Munich star Alaba was deadly as the visitors failed to clear a cross from the left, smashing home to deny Ireland a trip to Brazil next summer.

ARSENAL'S JACK WILSHIRE SAYS UKRAINE CLASH IS BIGGEST OF HIS CAREER
JACK WILSHIRE reckons this week’s vital World Cup qualifier against Ukraine is the biggest date of his career – by a distance.

By Harry Pratt

Jack Wilshere was in top form against Moldova on Friday in a World Cup qualifier game

After almost two years on the sidelines with a serious foot injury which required several bouts of surgery, the England and Arsenal star is at last getting a regular run of action – with club and country.

But that lengthy absence means Wilshere, 21, will be making only his TENTH Three Lions appearance in Kiev on Tuesday – and just his FOURTH competitive outing in all.

No wonder that, with England’s qualification hopes for Brazil 2014 resting on the outcome, Wilshere views the showdown as the most important yet in his brief football life.

Victory for Roy Hodgson’s Group H leaders means they can start packing their bags for South America. They would be three points clear of Ukraine with home games next month against Montenegro and Poland.

The flip side to that equation, however, is that if they lose, England are no longer be in control of their own destiny.

Wilshere said: “Without doubt, this is the biggest game I have ever played in. Moldova on Friday was my first-ever World Cup qualifier.

"I know my second one, away in Ukraine, is going to be very tough. It would be great to get a win over there.

“There are still two games to go after Tuesday but they are at home. So we’d be in a really strong position if we beat Ukraine.”

Poland’s 1-1 draw with Montenegro last week, while England were smashing four past Moldova at Wembley, is why Hodgson’s men are again on top and in the driving seat.

Wilshere, though, is refusing to get carried away and warns Ukraine will provide a far sterner examination of England’s credentials to mix it with the world’s elite next June.

The Gunners midfielder added: “We knew we had to get the Moldova game out of the way first. It went well and we scored a few goals.

“But going to Ukraine is going be a much harder test. They have dangerous players, as we saw when they came to Wembley. We must be ready to defend and attack when we can.

“We just have to get the result that will keep us on top of the group going into the last two games. We want to keep it in our hands.”

England can expect a hostile reception in Kiev but Wilshere is adamant that they have the required experience to cope with such a red-hot occasion.

He said: “I think we will thrive on that sort of atmosphere.

“We have guys who have played in the Champions League and have been to some very tough places. There are plenty who have seen it all before.”

Wilshere is cautiously optimistic about his fitness after putting a series of problems behind him.

“I had a bug last week but I’ve had an hour against Moldova and that should stand me in good stead,” said the Stevenage-born playmaker.

“I feel good, although I won’t say that I’m 100 per cent because I’m always looking to get better. But I thought I played all right on Friday and hope to do the same on Tuesday.”

Italy 2-1 Czech Republic: Balotelli fires Azzurri to World Cup

Cesare Prandelli's men scored two second-half goals to calm fears they might slip up their chances to secure a spot in the Brazil finals next summer

Mario Balotelli fired home to a penalty to complete a comeback and fire Italy to World Cup 2014 in a 2-1 win over Czech Republic.

Libor Kozak had put the visitors ahead in Turin after 19 minutes, sparking fears among home fans that what had looked set to be a celebratory night could take a turn for the worse.

However, the Azzurri scored twice in the space of four minutes - first Giorgio Chiellini, then Balotelli - to secure a spot in Brazil next summer.

Gianluigi Buffon equalled Fabio Cannavaro’s all-time record of 136 caps as took his place in goal, while there were recalls for Balotelli and Riccardo Montolivo following their suspensions.

Michal Bilek made three changes to the side that suffered a shock defeat to Armenia on Friday.

Marek Suchy, Vaclav Prochazka and Vladimir Darida came in for Michal Kadlec, Josef Husbauer and Michael Rabusic.

Despite the hosts having the better of the opening exchanges, it was the visitors who broke the deadlock as Kozak fired home in the 19th minute following a swift counterattack.

The Aston Villa striker escaped the attentions of the Italian defence to meet Petr Jiracek’s cross and guide the ball past Buffon.

Italy should have equalised six minutes later but Balotelli missed two fantastic chances from inside the penalty area.

His first struck the crossbar after a good strike from Emmanuele Giaccherini’s cross, and he blazed his second over the bar after Cech had spilled a shot from the edge of the box.

All the home side's chances were falling to the Milan striker but he could not find a way past Cech.

When Andrea Pirlo floated a perfect cross towards the 23-year-old, he could only head straight at the Czech goalkeeper, who pushed the ball away.

Cesare Prandelli's side levelled six minutes into the second half through Chiellini. Cech missed his punch from a Pirlo corner and the Juventus defender rose unmarked to head into the empty goal.

And on their next attack they moved ahead as Balotelli was brought down in the penalty area by Gebre Selassie.

He picked himself up to calmly fire past Cech, sending the Chelsea goalkeeper the wrong way.

Italy had their visitors firmly under control and when substitute Daniel Kolar received a second yellow card for a poor challenge on Balotelli, the party was able to start.

They saw out the closing moments of the match comfortably to secure top place and seal qualification with two games remaining.

Arsenal get boost in chase for £25 million rated Spanish star

Barcelona president Sandro Rosell has laughed off suggestions that Arsenal target and Real Madrid star Iker Casillas could move to the Nou Camp.

 Casillas chilling

Casillas is unsettled at Madrid after losing his place to Diego Lopez under Jose Mourinho and failing to win it back under new boss Carlo Ancelotti.

Barcelona meanwhile, will be looking for a new keeper with Victor Valdes set to leave the Camp Nou at the end of the season.

However Rosell claims Barcelona have no intentions to try and sign Casillas given his status at Real.

He said: “Casillas is the icon of Madrid. Seeing him play for Barcelona would be like Real Madrid buying Xavi.” (Daily Express)

Arsenal are monitoring the progress of the stopper and could make a move if he decides to leave

Fabregas: "I feel increasingly more important to the team"

Cesc Fàbregas is proud of the role he plays for Spain and said: "I feel increasingly more important and that I have a bigger role inside the team," adding: "I'm very keen to continue that run of form."

Before the game against Chile, Fàbregas recalled that "Chile’s players are battle-hardened warriors, who are very talented, as well as competitive. We’re going to have to play well."

Meanwhile, Santi Cazorla did not bite his tongue when highlighting the opposition’s strengths. He said that Chile was a "very competitive" side, adding that by playing them, "we'll know how well we’re really playing."

£30 million is price to pay for gifted Arsenal target!

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger knows that he must fork out £30 million if he wants to nail down the signature of Ikay Gundogan in the January window.

Wenger has already started to work on possible additions the winter transfer market, with priority arrivals Gundogan, a player who currently plays for Borussia Dortmund.

The Frenchman wants to strengthen the midfield and up front, so Arsenal sports officials have eyed up a bunch of players Borussia Dortmund. (Fichajes.net, translated from Spanish)

Dortmund do not want to sell but will do business if the price is right

Mladen Petric snapped up after Andy Carroll's injury causes major set-back

WEST HAM have snapped up free agent Mladen Petric – as fears grew that Andy Carroll could be out of action until next year.

By Paul Brown

 

Carroll suffered a setback to his recovery from a heel injury when he broke down in training on Monday with a new injury to the same foot.

The former Liverpool striker has undergone scans on the problem, which will now be assessed by a specialist in Holland.

But it does not look good for the England hitman, who has yet to play for the Hammers since clinching a permanent £15m switch from Anfield this summer.

Starsport understands Carroll has suffered an Achilles injury which could sideline him for four months, leaving the club woefully short of strikers.

They moved to solve that problem by snapping up 32-year-old Croatian international Petric on a free transfer yesterday and could still bring back former striker Carlton Cole as well.

Petric was released by Fulham at the end of last season after scoring five goals in 23 appearances for the Cottagers. He has signed a one-year deal with West Ham.

The former Basel and Borussia Dortmund striker will now go straight into the squad for the trip to Southampton on Sunday – and could even start at St Mary’s.

He said: “I’m very happy, excited and looking forward to training with the team and to the first game.

“I’m happy to be back in the Premier League because it’s a fantastic league and I’m really looking forward to being part of this team and this club. I’m very happy, excited and looking forward to training with the team and to the first game” Mladen Petric

West Ham were quick to mention that Petric “has been maintaining his fitness over the summer” in their statement announcing his arrival.

That’s in stark contrast to claims about Cole, who is training with the Hammers, despite being released by them at the end of last season.

First-team coach Ian Hendon recently claimed Cole has “had a summer off”, while co-owner David Sullivan’s son Jack even tweeted that Cole was “not fit enough to offer a contract to”.

Club sources insist that the ex-Chelsea star is still working on his fitness.

Arsenal players have an excellent International break

by Bob

Phew, the interlull is over and it appears that Arsenal’s international players have come through it unscathed. Theo Walcott was the victim of a painful looking tackle to his achilles, but he played on for quite a while before being replaced. He was limping a bit when he came off, and it would have been painful but there shouldn’t be any lasting damage.

Neither Theo nor Jack Wilshere played particularly well, but that was the story of the match for England, although a draw does leave then top of the group and with two home games to come. Aaron Ramsey had another disappointing night as Wales lost 3 – 0 at home to Serbia, although the good news for Arsenal is that his own performance was excellent again. Ramsey played the full game, as did Tomas Rosicky for the Czech Republic, who also lost to Italy.

Giroud, Sagna and Koscielny all completed the full 90 minutes for France, but their efforts were better rewarded with a 4 – 2 win in Belarus. It was also nice that both Belarus goals were down to poor goalkeeping from the Tottenham stopper Hugo Lloris.

Arsenal’s new boy Mesut Ozil also played 90 minutes, and was very influential as Germany beat the Faroe Islands 3 – 0. Ozil slotted their second goal away from the penalty spot, but it was the big Arsenal defender Per Mertesacker who got them started, scoring from a corner in the first half.

Santi Cazorla was one of only five Spanish players to play the whole of their friendly draw against Chile, and the fact that the international Gunners played for all or most of the games is the only area of concern going into Saturday’s game at Sunderland. Having said that, not getting any more injuries is great news

THE TOP 10 BIG-MONEY SIGNINGS. WHERE DO UNITED, CHELSEA AND ARSENAL RANK?

GARETH BALE heads the list of big-money deals this summer - but where does your club feature in the list of top 10 transfers in Europe?

1. Gareth Bale

Tottenham to Real Madrid - £86m

2. Edinson Cavani

Napoli to PSG - £55m

3. Radamel Falcao

Atletico Madrid to Monaco - £50m

4. Neymar

Santos to Barcelona - £49m

5. Mesut Ozil

Real Madrid to Arsenal - £42.5m

6. James Rodriguez

FC Porto to Monaco - £38.5m

7. Gonzalo Higuain

Real Madrid to Napoli - £32.5m

8. Mario Gotze

Borussia Dortmund to Bayern Munich - £31m

9. Fernandinho

Shakhtar Donetsk to Manchester City - £30m

10. Willian

Anzhi Makhachkala to Chelsea - £30m

LIONEL MESSI ELUDES 6 YEARS JAIL TERM

Story by Reginald Chukwu

 
The iconic footballer Lionel Messi has paid off a debt of about £4.2 million to Spanish authorities which made him risk a 6 year jail term after being accused in june for filling a false tax returns.

He and the father who were accused of the fraudulent act by the spanish authority paid the hefty sum to escape jail sentence.

He has been scheduled to appear at a hearing on September 17, but his lawyer has pleaded that the date be changed because of his clients engagement on that day.

BALOTELLI SHOULD BE PROFESSIONAL

The midfielder feels the AC Milan star has plenty of potential and says he will improve even further if he changes his behaviour

Tomas Rosicky believes there is much more to come from Mario Balotelli - but only once he has "calmed down" on the pitch.

The two players go head-to-head on Tuesday in World Cup qualification Group B as the Czech Republic take on Italy and the Arsenal midfielder hopes the Balotelli will begin to mature and fulfill his potential.

"I know Balotelli pretty well. Mario has a lot of potential. However, he will be even better if he calms down a bit on a professional level," Rosicky told Tuttosport.

"Of course, his age plays a role in his behaviour, but he has already shown that he's a very interesting player at City and Milan.

"Italy are very strong tactically and they have two superb strikers. 

"We are really looking forward to the game. It's our last chance and we cannot afford to lose." 

Balotelli made the headlines for all the wrong reasons in the previous encounter between the two nations after he was dismissed in the second half after receiving two yellow cards within the space of four minutes.

Czech Republic currently sit third in Group B with nine points from seven games, trailing leaders Italy by eight points and second-placed Bulgaria by one point.

Arsenal are showing an interest in Martin Montoya, who looks set to leave Barcelona in search of first-team football.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger is on the look out for a new right-back as doubts surround the future of Bacary Sagna and Montoya looks to be an option. The 22-year-old has seen his route to the first team blocked by Daniel Alves and he is now said to be considering his future and he enters the final year of his contract. Montoya's agent, Jose Maria Orobitg, says his client has yet to be offered a new deal and could be open to a move away either in January or next summer. "For the moment he is under contract with FC Barcelona until the end of the season," he revealed. "However, the contract extension has still not arrived. "We have talked but there is no certainty that Martin Montoya would hold down a first-team spot, because right now Daniel Alves closes the door. "The transfer window is closed, but I can tell you that the contract extension may not be successful. Anything could happen between now and June."  

DENZEIL BOADU HAPPY HE QUIT ARSENAL FOR MAN CITY

Submitted by tribalfootball.com

 

Denzeil Boadu is delighted with his move to Manchester City.

The 16 year-old left Arsenal for City over the summer to pen pro forms.

The England U17 midfielder told City's website: “My goal is to become a professional footballer and being given that chance at Manchester City was like another chance to fulfil my dream.

“After leaving Arsenal I didn’t want to go lower, I wanted to be at the best club possible and in England I think that is Manchester City.”

SZCZESNY SAYS BEING DROPPED WAS VITAL FOR HIM

 

The 23-year-old admits he is not entirely pleased with his form last term and claims that being benched forced him to work on his fitness

Arsenal goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny admits being dropped last season drove him to raise his game.

The 23-year-old Poland international was replaced by Lukasz Fabianski in March after a poor run of form, but insists this has made him a better player.

Szczesny was left out of four matches but has started every game this season and attributes his return to form to the disappointment of being benched.

"Obviously I had mixed feelings about my form last season, I had my ups and downs," he told the club's official website. 

"It wasn't nice - you want to be playing every week.

"But then again, the most important thing is the team and that is what the team needed.

"I worked on my fitness and sharpness and came in much earlier every day to work in the gym with the fitness coaches and the physios. There was a lot of stuff to be done - I realised I wasn’t in the best shape, but it all worked out pretty well.

"Hopefully I can be the club’s number one this season. It is important, I want to win a trophy for this club because that is what is missing in my career and I’m sure it is what the fans have been missing. It’s a big season."

The Pole has renewed competition for his place this term after Wenger added Emiliano Viviano to his goalkeeping options before the transfer window closed.   

RONALDO OR RIBERY FOR BALLON D’OR–ZIDANE DECLARES

The Madrid icon feels the France and Portugal stars deserve to win this year's prize more than current holder Lionel Messi

Zinedine Zidane says he would like to see either Cristiano Ronaldo or fellow countryman Franck Ribery pick up the Ballon d’Or award this year.

Ribery was crowned Uefa Best Player last month after inspiring Bayern Munich to the treble last season, pipping fellow nominees Ronaldo and Lionel Messi to the prize.

And Zidane believes the 30-year-old deserves global football's top individual honour for 2013 along with Real Madrid star Ronaldo, instead of current holder and four-time winner Messi.

"I hope it will be one of those two, both really deserve it,” stated the Madrid sporting director to TV programme Canal Football Club.

"If there were two Ballon d’Or, I would give them one each. As it is, there is only one, but I do not decide!"

Zidane went on to voice his support for striker Karim Benzema, following the criticism levelled at the 25-year-old as a result of his 20-plus-hour goal drought for France.

"We know he has not scored for a long time for France," Zidane continued.

"What I hope is to always see Benzema performing at a good level because he is a talented player who can give a lot to France and Real Madrid."

The World Cup-winner also talked about his relationship with coach Carlo Ancelotti and insisted that his new role on the backroom team at Santiago Bernabeu has not caused any rifts within the current coaching set-up.

“I talked with the coach and he already had his backroom team. It was made clear, his assistant will take care of preparations and training sessions and I would focus more on the team and tactics," explained the 41-year-old. 

"This is what interests me and I still have to learn about that.

"I had him [Ancelotti] for two years at Juventus. He has evolved professionally, but as a person, he is always the same, devoted and open-minded."

BARCELONA WOULD NOT PAY ₤85.6m FOR BALE

The Barca president Sandro Rosell claims "people would go crazy" if his side sanctioned the level of spending enjoyed by rivals Real Madrid this summer

Barcelona president Sandro Rosell says he would never have allowed the club to pay the €100 million fee which Real Madrid spent on Gareth Bale.

The Wales international secured his protracted move to Santiago Bernabeu shortly before the end of the summer transfer window, though the sum involved has attracted significant criticism, with Barca coach Gerardo Martino claiming it showed "a lack of respect for the world we live in."

While Rosell admits the timing of Martino's comments was ill-advised, he has voiced his own disdain for the world-record fee, claiming that his own club could never match such sums on a single player.

"I wouldn’t have paid €100 million [for Bale]," he told TV3.

"Barcelona cannot allow for that. If we pay €100m, people would go crazy. Madrid is a private institution and if their socios allow it, then I have nothing to say.

"We need to tell Tata that he can’t always say what he thinks, but he was speaking from the heart."

Rosell was quick to praise Madrid for their decision to allow Kaka to return to AC Milan on a free transfer, however, stating that the departure of the likes of the Brazilian and David Villa from Camp Nou are useful in freeing up the wage bill.

"Madrid selling Kaka to Milan for nothing was a good move. That’s one huge salary off the books at least. Just like selling Villa was a good move for us," Rosell said.

The 49-year-old also revealed he has been in touch with Tito Vilanova, who is continuing to battle cancer following his relapse earlier this year.

"I had dinner with him the other day and he looked well. He’s fighting, he’s putting all his energy into it and I hope he comes out alright on the other side," he added.

Meanwhile, Barcelona were handed a boost after Sergio Busquets returned to training on Monday. The midfielder, who injured his thigh in the 3-2 Liga win over Valencia, has stepped up his recovery after being forced to withdraw from the Spain squad for the matches against Finland and Chile.

RONALDO & BALE, PERFECT MATCH FOR MADRID

The ex-Madrid star believes the former Spurs star will get along fine with the Portugal international at the Bernabeu

Former Brazil international Ronaldo has little doubt that Gareth Bale and Cristiano Ronaldo will form a good partnership at Real Madrid.

The 24-year-old joined the Santiago Bernabeu side for a world record fee of €100 million in the summer transfer window - a sum that eclipsed the money spent by Madrid in buying Ronaldo from Manchester United in 2009.

However, the Brazil legend does not think that the arrival of another high-profile name will have a negative impact on the Portuguese and back the pair to work well together.

"I believe that these two players will do very well at Madrid and form a fine partnership," Ronaldo told AS.

"Cristiano and Bale will make the Madrid fans happy. They will triumph together and the fans will enjoy their partnership.

"They will do some great things together and I have no doubt that they will get along just fine. Great players always understand each other. The Madrid faithful are in for a treat."

Bale could make his official Madrid debut at the weekend away against Villarreal.

JESUS NAVAS BEGS IKER CASILLAS TO JOIN MANCHESTER CITY AND NOT ARSENAL

JESUS NAVAS has pleaded with Real Madrid keeper Iker Casillas to follow Mesut Ozil to the Premier League - but at Manchester City, not Arsenal.

 

Madrid offered Casillas Arsenal last month but Arsene Wenger did not opt to swoop for the stopper. Casillas' future at the Bernabeu is still uncertain and Navas, who signed for City in the summer, wants his countryman to join him at the Etihad. "You always want all the good players to be in your team," Navas told Movistar.

“At City we have great keepers, but Iker would be a great addition”

“We all know the great keeper that Iker is and the importance he has within the team.

At City we have great keepers, but Iker would be a great addition.”

Joe Hart is the current City no.1 but his recent performances have come underfire from some critics.

Daniel Sturridge: I'm more worried about Liverpool than England

DANIEL STURRIDGE says he's more worried about playing for Liverpool than England.

 

The free-scoring striker started the season in flying form but has been forced to withdraw from the England squad with a thigh injury.

He says matters at Anfield are where it matters most - because that's where he can earn a plane ticket to the World Cup in Brazil.

Sturridge said: "I'm more worried about Liverpool and more worried about putting in good performances for us, us winning games and challenging for trophies.

"That's my main ambition - it's not about playing for England.

“I'm more worried about Liverpool and more worried about putting in good performances for us”

That comes with doing the things you do for your club and if I don't play well here, I won't get the opportunity to do it there [World Cup finals]."

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers has recently backed Sturridge to make himself one of the best players in the Premier League, comments that went down well with the 24-year-old Anfield ace.

He said: "It was good to hear. It's always good to hear positive things from your manager, especially.

I'm working as hard as I possibly can and I want to improve as much as possible.

I'm not resting on my laurels or thinking I'm complete because I know I'm not."

ACHILLES THREATENS ANDY CARROLL'S SEASON, WEST HAM FORCED TO MOVE FOR PETRIC

ANDY CARROLL fears his West Ham season could be over after popping his Achilles in training.

 

Carroll has yet to play for the Hammers since making his £15m move from Liverpool.

A heel injury has forced him to miss the opening three Premier League games but now his whole season may be in tatters.

Starsport understands the striker is now on crutches after the training-ground horror which left him in agony.

A club statement said: 'West Ham United can confirm Andy Carroll suffered an injury to his right foot during his return to full training today.

“There will be no prognosis until he has seen a specialist”

"Although it is in the same part of his foot as his previous injury, it is a new injury and therefore there will be no prognosis until he has seen a specialist."

West Ham are now desperately short of frontmen and are poised to sign Croatia's Mladen Petric as emergency cover.

Petric, 32, had his medical yesterday and is available on a free having played for Fulham last season.

NADALWINS US OPEN

 

From a threatened career to a threat to the record books, Rafael Nadal’s resurgence continues after another extraordinary scrap against Novak Djokovic.

A US Open final that twisted and turned, crackled with quality and tension, ended with him beating the world No 1 6-2, 3-6, 6-4, 6-1 to claim a second title at Flushing Meadows.

He ended up curled up on the floor, apparently sobbing and struggling to take in the outcome of another ripsnorting contest against his most enduring rival.

The match unfolded in dramatic fashion in front of a Hollywood-led crowd of celebrities which included David Beckham, Kevin Spacey, Jessica Alba, Leonardo DiCaprio, Sean Connery and Justin Timberlake. Not your ordinary spectators, but in fairness it wasn't your ordinary cast.

You didn’t think it would disappoint did you? It did not, and another tour de force from the 27 year-old Spaniard now sees him move to third on the all-time list of Grand Slam champions.

Having returned to action in February after a seven-month absence, he now has 13 Majors to his name, one behind Pete Sampras and four behind Roger Federer.

This was far more unexpected than his obligatory triumph at Roland Garros, and it took a monumental effort against the unyielding Serb, with the pivotal moments coming late in the third.

There was a dazzling array of all-court skills in a match which, while not among the marathons seen between them, still came in at three hours and 21 minutes. The key figure though, was Djokovic missing eight out of 11 break points, and Nadal taking seven out of 12.

'It’s very emotional now,' said Nadal. 'Only my team can know how much this means. Nobody brings my game more to its limits than Novak does.'

'I never thought something like this could happen. I was so excited to be back on tour trying to be competitive.

'I never thought about competing for all that I competed for this year. All the Masters 1000s, two grand slams. It' s just more than a dream for me, and I'm very happy for everything.

'I feel very lucky about what's happened since I came back.'

It seems incidental that Nadal’s dominance of American hard courts this summer – all the more remarkable because of the damage they supposedly do to his knees – gained him a winner’s cheque of £2.3million, including a bonus for winning the ‘US Open Series’ of events.

His indomitable spirit, which never shone through more than when he was being beaten up in the third, has conquered the massive obstacles placed before him.

When you consider where Nadal was a year ago it was all the more remarkable that he went into this match as the favourite.

Last September he had still not been able to hit a ball since Wimbledon, and was driving himself to distraction by having to swim length after length, not an activity he enjoys.

On this night last year it was, of course, Andy Murray centre stage, so it was quite some role reversal. This time the 26 year-old Scot was on the Croatian coast in Umag, preparing for Friday’s Davis Cup tie, leaving it to the two players with whom he has shared the major spoils since the 2012 Olympics.

Of all aspects to his comeback this year, Nadal’s unbeaten performances on hard court have been the most unforeseen, embracing a surface he has sometimes viewed with distrust, at least when it comes to his knees.

Djokovic cannot get enough of it, however, as the hard terrain sees him at his most phenomenally consistent. You have to go back to January 2010 for the last time he did not make a Grand Slam final on concrete.

Yet his self- belief did not quite appear at its usual level from the start and his groundstrokes were broken down in the third game when Nadal converted a second break point to get ahead.

Soon afterwards he was angrily gesturing towards his bench in frustration as he failed to convert 0-30 on the Spaniard’s serve.

Nadal broke him to love in the seventh game and the first was over in 42 minutes, which can be regarded as positively a sprint between these two.

Faced with a rampant opponent, the Serb was pressing too hard and making forehand errors, but he tightened it up in the second. At 3-2, on his third break point of the match, finally got ahead and marked it with a proper celebration, arms raised.

It had been the small matter of a 54-shot rally, mind, so he was entitled.

Djokovic’s festivities proved shortlived as Nadal immediately grabbed it back but then, after a ten-minute game, the world number one finally ran down a dropshot to break him a second time, only the third occasion the Spanish serve had perished in the tournament.

A major feature now was Djokovic seizing the centre of the court and pushing his opponent back further and further, his previously errant forehand starting to boss the match.

The third set was among the best they – or anyone else – can ever have played, rich in variety and accompanied by a soundtrack of Nadal grunting with the volume on full.

Djokovic broke early and looked for most of it like he would win it. After being pegged back by Nadal the Serb had three break points at 4-4, all of which were saved. Then he looked to be following it with a routine hold, only for the Spaniard to profit from the sudden slide in the accuracy of his forehand and from nowhere reel off four points to inflict another break of his own.

On his haunches he pumped his fist towards the ground as a last forehand went long. Djokovic had his bet ‘What the hell happened there?” look, as well he might have done.

Even for one of such renowned fighting spirit that was just too much to take, his challenge was spent and he was left to rue those major switchbacks in the third against his even more remarkable foe.

'It was a really important set,' Nadal said of the third. 'I started so slow the first game, but the end of the second, beginning of the third, Novak was playing just amazing.

'When Novak plays that level, I am not sure if anybody can stop him. I knew that it was really important I stayed only one break behind. If I lost the second break, then the set was over.

'So I tried to be there, I kept fighting for every ball, and I tried to wait for my moment.'
Djokovic blamed himself for letting Nadal back in, saying: 'It's all my fault.

'I made some unforced errors in the crucial moments with forehands and dropped the serve twice when I should not have. The next thing you know, it's two sets to one for him.

'Then he started playing much, much better, and I obviously could not recover after that loss.

'I have to be satisfied with the final, even though I would have loved to win this match.

'But it was obvious that in the important moments he played better tennis, and that's why he deserved to win. I congratulate him, and I move on.'

The smile that says it all: Serena Williams wins U.S. Open for the FOURTH time

By ASSOCIATED PRESS

 

Finally tested, even trailing, at the U.S. Open, Serena Williams turned things around just in time.

Two points from defeat, Williams suddenly regained her composure and her strokes, coming back to beat top-ranked Victoria Azarenka  on Sunday night for her fourth championship at Flushing Meadows and 15th Grand Slam title overall.

'I honestly can't believe I won. I really was preparing my runner-up speech, because I thought, “Man, she's playing so great,” Williams said during the trophy presentation after the 2-hour, 18-minute match, adding: 'I'm really shocked.'

The victory came as little surprise to sports analysts, however, as Williams hadn't dropped a set in the tournament, losing only 19 games through six matches before Sunday. 
The win at the Open comes months after she had an unexpectedly quick exit from the French Open in May, which marked , the American's only first-round exit in 49 career major tournaments. Since then, she is 26-1, winning Wimbledon and the London Olympics.
Williams kept whatever excitement she might have felt after winning a crucial point because of an unforced error by Azarenka contained, face straight as possible, while her older sister, seven-time major champion 

Venus, smiled and clapped in the stands.

After the final point, Azarenka slumped in her changeover chair, a white towel covering her head, as Williams kept saying, 'Oh, my God! Oh, my God! Oh, my God!' while scurrying over to share the joy with her mother and big sister.

Williams, who turns 31 on September 26, is the first 30-year-old woman to win the U.S. Open since Martina Navratilova in 1987.

Williams is dominating the sport right now, and she's been dominant, off and on, for more than a decade.

She won her very first major championship at age 17 at the 1999 U.S. Open. Winning titles 13 years apart at the same Grand Slam tournament represents the longest span of success in the professional era.

Worries about a potentially dangerous storm led the tournament to postpone Williams-Azarenka, making this the fourth time in the last five years that the U.S. Open women's final was pushed from Saturday to Sunday.

Both women had issues with the officiating - though nothing compared to Williams' misadventures in the past.

In the 2009 semifinals, Williams was angered by a foot-fault call that resulted in a double-fault, setting up match point for her opponent, Kim Clijsters. Williams launched into a racket-brandishing tirade that resulted in a fine and a Grand Slam probation that made her be on her best behavior or risk being suspended.

Then, while losing to Stosur in last year's final, Williams lost her cool and berated the chair umpire - 'You're just unattractive inside,' was among the noteworthy lines - after being docked a point for screaming during a point.

This time, there was a foot-fault call, too. She didn't react at all immediately, finished off that game, then stared down the linesman as she walked to the sideline at the ensuing changeover. He chuckled a bit.