Ferdinand ´not to blame´ for England defeat: Capello

Fabio Capello insists England defender Rio Ferdinand should not be held responsible for his side’s 1-0 qualifying defeat against Ukraine. Capello saw England’s unblemished record in Group Six come to an end on Saturday as Serhiy Nazarenko’s deflected first half goal in the Dnipro Stadium sunk his 10 men.

The turning point of a fiery encounter, which was marred by Ukraine fans repeatedly throwing flares onto the pitch, came when Ferdinand made a woeful misjudgement that led to England goalkeeper Robert Green being dismissed.

Ferdinand allowed a long ball to bounce past him to Artem Milevskiy, who was brought down in the penalty area by Green as he tried to save. After initially appearing to send off Ferdinand, Slovenian referee Damir Skomina showed Green a red card, making him the first England goalkeeper to be sent off.

A new look for 2016, this is the Megan Rapinoe Replica jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Morgan Brian, Alex Morgan, Carli Lloyd, Lauren Holiday and Ali Krieger. christen press jerseys USA Andriy Shevchenko missed the penalty, but England never really recovered and Ukraine pushed home their one-man advantage through Nazarenko’s strike.

Ferdinand’s blunder wasn’t the first by the Manchester United centre-back in an England shirt recently. He was also at fault for a goal in England’s friendly draw in Holland in August. But Capello preferred to point the finger of blame at the referee rather than Ferdinand, who has also been below-par for United during an injury-hit start to the season.

“He made one mistake, that is all, and that was for the penalty,” Capello said. “Normally I don’t speak about referees. This time I am changing my mind. It was a big mistake. “Rio was running, the goalkeeper is diving. I need someone to explain to me how he can get that wrong.

“I spoke with the fourth official when the referee showed Rio the red card. He said he would tell the referee it was not Rio. “The referee thought Rio had fouled the player but it so obviously was not him.”

Capello confronted Skomina after the final whistle heralded his first defeat in a competitive game as England coach. But the Italian’s frustration didn’t extend to his team despite their spluttering display.

In the first half they could have been several goals behind as the defence creaked after Green’s dismissal.

Wayne Rooney led a more spirited second half effort but England rarely went close to an equaliser as their eight-match winning run in qualifying came to an end.

At least Capello could take heart from the fact that his team’s place at next year’s World Cup in South Africa had already been secured in convincing fashion.

“I am proud of my team. In the second half we played very well and created a lot of chances, right until the very last minute,” he said.

With Green suspended for Wednesday’s final qualifier against Belarus at Wembley, Portsmouth goalkeeper David James, who came on for the West Ham stopper when he was sent off, is likely to regain his position between the posts.

Capello may also have to pick a replacement for Steven Gerrard after the Liverpool midfielder was substituted at half-time with a groin injury. Ukraine coach Alexiy Mikhailychenko saluted his team’s performance as they defeated England for the first time.

The victory moved them above Croatia into second place and a victory in Andorra on Wednesday should guarantee a play-off place.

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Slovenia topple Slovakia to keep chances alive

Share Goals from Valter Birsa and Nejc Pecnik helped Slovenia topple Slovakia 2-0 in a World Cup qualifier that all but secured the top two spots in Group Three for both teams in Bratislava on Saturday.

Slovakia, which needed a point to go straight to South Africa, now top Group Three with 19 points ahead of Slovenia, which have 17 points and face minnows San Marino in the last qualifier on Wednesday while Slovakia travel to Poland.

Auxerre midfielder Birsa put Slovenia ahead in the 56th minute with a shot from 20 metres that swerved across the box and into the top corner. Pecnik then sealed Slovenia’s victory just before the final whistle after converting a four-on-one break.

The result upset 25,000 people at a crumbling Tehelne pole stadium, who were hoping to see Slovakia secure a World Cup debut.

Slovakia has never played at the European championships or the World Cup since it became an independent country when the former Czechoslovak federation split amicably in 1993.

Its partner in the federation, the Czech Republic, beat Poland 2-0 with second-half goals from Tomas Necid and Jaroslav Plasil in Prague. Arsenal midfielder Tomas Rosicky set up substitute striker Necid who tipped the ball past the Polish keeper in the 51st minute, and Bordeaux midfielder Jaroslav Plasil dived for a header to score 72 minutes into the game.

But the Czechs are trailing Slovenia by two points which makes their hopes of qualifying pure theory ahead of their last game against Northern Ireland.

The Czechs, who have played at World Cup 2006 and all Euro tournaments between 1996 and 2008, are now pinning their hopes on San Marino, last in the group with no points, one goal for and 44 against. Sun 11 Oct, 2009RSS Feed LAST 5 POSTS BY SOCCERNEWS

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Italy as ominous as they are unconvincing

Share Reigning champions Italy have qualified for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa and will justly start the competition, the first time it is to be held in Africa, amongst the favourites. Kelley O'Hara Jersey 2021

They qualified with a Group 8 game to spare following Saturday’s 2-2 draw against the Republic of Ireland in Dublin and as long as they don’t lose at home to Cyprus on Wednesday they will have gone through the group stages unbeaten.

The statistics are impressive, Italy have scored the most goals and conceded the fewest in what could have been a tricky group that included Bulgaria and the outrageous talents of Dimitar Berbatov as well as the gritty Irish, inspired by their Italian legend of a coach Giovanni Trapattoni.

But at closer inspection, this was far from a comfortable cruise to the finals. Italy began their campaign back in September last year in Cyprus and needed an Antonio Di Natale goal two minutes into injury time to snatch a win they did not deserve.

That was followed four days later by a 2-0 home win over Georgia thanks to a brace from combative midfielder Daniele De Rossi including one unstoppable 30-yard rocket — but Italy had not shown the dominance they should have done against such minnows. 

They earned a solid point in Bulgaria before then struggling to a slightly fortuitous 2-1 home win against Montenegro in yet another unconvincing display.

A more composed victory followed in Montenegro and then Italy’s 10 men, having had Giampaolo Pazzini sent off early on, battled to an honourable 1-1 home draw against Ireland, in one of the few performances when they actually emerged with any credit.

But it was soon back to reality as their next result was a drab 2-0 win in Georgia, thanks to two own goals from AC Milan’s Kakha Kaladze. Italy themselves did not break down the plucky Georgians and that came at a time when they had failed to find the net in their previous three games following a disastrous Confederations Cup that saw them eliminated in the group stages after defeats to Egypt (1-0) and Brazil (3-0).

They more or less secured their qualification for South Africa in their next game, though, by beating Bulgaria 2-0 at home as their forwards finally found the target but the visitors to Turin that day could easily have snatched a draw but for some terrible second half profligacy.

But what the Confederations Cup and subsequent matches highlighted was the worry surrounding Italy’s failing attack, which has been steadily building since the Eurpopean Championships.

Their forwards scored only six goals in nine games in qualification and Lippi has used a wide variety of combinations as he searches for one that works.

In fact it seems as if Lippi simply doesn’t know what his forward line should be having called on Vincenzo Iaquinta, Alberto Gilardino, Fabio Quagliarella, Di Natale, Pazzini, Giuseppe Rossi and the now seemingly forgotten Luca Toni during this campaign while also switching back and forth from a two-man attack to a target man with two wide players. The defence is aging and the midfield looks less convincing since Andrea Pirlo’s form has started to dip over the last couple of years and it has become over reliant on the grit and determination of De Rossi.

Probably the only plus point from the Italy team’s point of view is the continued brilliance of goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon, still one of the best in the world.

But the flip side to these difficulties is this: Italy, as captain Fabio Cannavaro recently said, have never played well but Italy are not about playing well, they are about winning when it matters, as their 2006 victory in Germany so aptly demonstrates.

And that is what makes Italy look ominous, it is just this kind of Italy, aging, struggling, unconvincing, that is most dangerous when it comes to the big competitions.

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Last-gasp Gilardino sends Italy to World Cup

Share Alberto Gilardino’s late equaliser earned Italy a 2-2 draw against the Republic of Ireland here on Saturday, securing a World Cup place for the reigning champions and consigning the hosts to the play-offs.

Defender Sean St Ledger looked to have given the home side a memorable victory that would have taken them to within a point of the Italians at the top of group eight with one match to play when he dived in to head home Stephen Hunt’s free-kick in the 87th minute.

Croke Park was still reverberating with the celebrations when Italy stole down the other end and scored through Gilardino, whose cool strike guaranteed top spot in the group and a ticket to South Africa next summer. 

 Despite the Italian thoroughbreds on parade, it was an Irish workhorse in the form of Glenn Whelan who gave Ireland the lead in the eighth minute. The Italians were caught out after a Nicola Legrottaglie foul gave Ireland a free-kick from a dangerous wide position.

Liam Lawrence, making his first competitive start, declined the chance to whip in a cross and instead directed a low ball across the front of the Italian box for Whelan to fire a superb effort into the top-left corner from 25 yards.

Italy’s first strike on goal came after 23 minutes following a period of possession caused by Ireland’s inability to keep the ball. Fabio Grosso’s effort from outside the box was straight at Shay Given, but when Mauro Camoranesi rose unchallenged from a corner three minutes later to direct a bullet header at goal, the Irish shot-stopper was unable to arrange his feet and hands in time to stop the ball crossing the line.

The Irish responded to the equaliser by finding their passing boots and making better use of Aiden McGeady, whose trickery was causing problems down Italy’s right side.

The Italians were also finding the flanks their best option as St Ledger and Richard Dunne marshalled Vincenzo Iaquinta well in the centre. Marcello Lippi’s 2006 world champions arrived needing only a draw to qualify for next summer’s finals and a play-off berth looked more than likely for the Irish.

Lippi brought on Gilardino in the second half to give Italy a conventional 4-4-2 formation for the closing stages of what had become an engrossing encounter.

His opposite number and countryman Giovanni Trapattoni responded soon after by introducing Hunt on the right for McGeady and an incisive run by the Hull winger attracted a foul from which Ireland scored what looked destined to be the decisive goal.

Hunt curled in the ensuing free-kick himself, with St Ledger flinging himself in to convert a brave header that sent the capacity crowd into raptures.

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France floor Faroes to book play-off place

Share France made sure of a place in the European play-offs for the 2010 World Cup by comfortably beating the Faroe Islands 5-0 here on Saturday evening.

The result guarantees Raymond Domenech’s side a berth alongside the seven other best runners-up from the Europe zone’s nine groups but their automatic qualification hopes were dashed when Serbia secured top spot in group seven by thrashing Romania, also by five goals to nil.

Andre-Pierre Gignac struck twice to reward France’s first-half dominance and they went 3-0 up in the 53nd minute when William Gallas atoned for an earlier miss by heading home Thierry Henry’s deflected cross at the back post.

Jakup Mikkelsen performed heroics in the visiting goal, saving well from Gignac, Nicolas Anelka, Henry and substitute Karim Benzema, before Anelka tapped home France’s fourth with four minutes to play after Mikkelsen could only take the sting out of Henry’s close-range effort. Benzema made it five with a fine low strike across the goalkeeper after a jinking run, but the result from Belgrade means that there is now nothing riding on France’s final game against Austria in Paris on Wednesday.

Les Bleus have struggled in front of goal recently and their pressing need for goals saw them line up in a bold 4-4-2 formation with Sidney Govou and Henry on the flanks and Anelka alongside Gignac up front. The match was preceded by a moment’s silence in memory of Toulouse fan Brice Taton, who was killed in an attack by rival fans prior to a game between his team and Partizan Belgrade in Serbia at the end of September.

The Faroe Islands stunned Lithuania by beating them 2-1 in their last outing but they remain one of Europe’s weakest sides and quickly found themselves on the back foot against the 2006 World Cup finalists.

France twice struck the woodwork, through Govou and Jeremy Toulalan, before Gignac broke the deadlock in the 34th minute when his shot from Anelka’s centre dribbled over the line via a deflection off Atli Gregersen, who had earlier escaped punishment after appearing to handle a shot from Gignac inside the box.

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Denmark beat Swedes to secure World Cup spot

Share Former European champions Denmark secured automatic qualification for the 2010 World Cup finals after beating group 1 opponents Sweden 1-0 here on Saturday.

Jakob Poulsen scored the game’s only goal in the 79th minute to keep the Danes top of the group. They now have an unassailable 21 points from nine of their ten games.

Sweden remain on 15 points with Portugal, who play Hungary later Saturday, third on 13 points.

Only group winners secure automatic qualification for the finals in South Africa next year, with the eight best group runners-up being forced into a two-leg play-off.

An emotional Poulsen, who plays for AGF Aarhus, said: “I’m happy and proud. It’s amazing, it’s the highlight of my footballing career so far.” Sat 10 Oct, 2009RSS Feed LAST 5 POSTS BY SOCCERNEWS

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Inter don´t have time to work on tactics – Vecchi Puel praises Southampton fight Buy your shoes today and check back for all new arrivals as they're added! Drogba on target as Ivorians qualify for World Cup

Share Ivory Coast on Saturday qualified for the World Cup finals following a 1-1 draw with Malawi in Blantyre, Chelsea’s Didier Drogba netting the crucial equalising goal for the visitors.

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Ivory Coast reach World Cup and Cameroon almost there

Share Ivory Coast qualified for the 2010 World Cup by drawing 1-1 in Malawi on Saturday and Cameroon moved closer to joining them with a 3-0 triumph over Togo.

Chelsea striker Didier Drogba scored just 120 seconds after coming on in the second half to give the Ivorian ‘Elephants’ an unassailable seven-point Group E advantage. The visitors had been rocked midway through the second half at Kamuzu Stadium in Blantyre when Jacob Ngwira scored his first World Cup goal to put the ‘Flames’ ahead.

Bosnia-born Ivory Coast coach Vahid Halilhodzic responded by sending on Drogba to score the goal that took the cocoa-producing west African country into a second consecutive World Cup tournament. Ivory Coast have 13 points, Burkina Faso six, Malawi four and Guinea three and attention now turns to who will finish second and third after the final fixtures next month and qualify for the 2010 African Nations Cup in Angola.

The ‘Elephants’ made an honourable first-round exit in Germany three years ago, losing narrowly to Argentina and the Netherlands before finishing with a win over Serbia-Montenegro. England coach Fabio Capello says Ivory Coast are capable of going far in South Africa next year while Chelsea boss Carlos Ancelloti claims he would coach them for free at the finals, much to the annoyance of Halilhodzic.

Apart from talismanic Drogba, Ivory Coast also started with Barcelona midfield enforcer Yaya Toure on the bench while an injury ruled out his older brother, Manchester City defender Kolo.

Resurgent Cameroon stayed top of Group A after outclassing shock 2006 qualifiers Togo in Yaounde while Gabon stayed one point adrift after beating Morocco 3-1 in Libreville. Midfielder Geremi Njitap scored at the second attempt off a penalty to give the ‘Indomitable Lions’ a half-time advantage against Togolese opponents led by reigning African Footballer of the Year Emmanuel Adebayor.

But the Manchester City striker was substituted 15 minutes into the second half after goals from Jean Makoun and Achille Emana had given Cameroon a 3-0 cushion.

Makoun netted off a pass from Inter Milan striker Samuel Eto’o, who dribbled past four defenders, and Emana beat overworked goalkeeper Kodjovi Obilale with a low drive. A Cameroon side transformed by the mid-year arrival of French coach Paul le Guen have 10 points, Gabon nine, Togo five and Morocco three and the Lions cannot be overtaken if they triumph on November 14 in Rabat.

Hicham Mahdoufi conceded an own goal on the stroke of half-time to give Gabon a lead they stretched during the second half through Eric Mouloungou and Daniel Cousin before Adel Taarabt snatched a late consolation goal. Egypt kept alive hopes of overtaking Group C pacesetters Algeria with a fortunate 1-0 victory in Zambia courtesy of a mid-second half strike from midfielder Hosny Abd Rabou.

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Coni prosecutor asks for Cannavaro let off

Share Italy captain Fabio Cannavaro looks set to be let off his failed dope test after the Italian Olympic Committee’s (Coni) anti-doping prosecutor asked for the case against the Juventus star to be dismissed.

Cannavaro failed a dope test on August 29 after he had been given a medication containing the banned substance cortisone by Juve doctors following a wasp sting that resulted in his arm swelling up.

But Coni’s anti-doping prosecutor Ettore Torri on Saturday asked the National Anti-doping Tribunal to shelve the case against the former world player of the year while reserving the right to investigate others within the club.

Following his injection, Juventus had requested that Cannavaro be given an exemption on the grounds of having taken a medication in the case of an emergency but his request was missing a document and while awaiting a decision he was subjected to the test he subsequently failed.

But Torri not only ruled out guilt on his part but also negligence in the failure to submit the right documentation on time. Cannavaro released a statement expressing his feeling of vindication.

“I’m happy that the prosecutor has asked for the dismissal of my case, taking into account my good faith and correct behaviour,” he said. “I never had any doubt that this would happen and I’m disappointed that such an event as this caused so much of an uproar.”

The Italian Football Federation (Figc) had claimed they were immediately made aware of the situation as Juventus had sent a copy of the exemption request to their doctor just before Cannavaro joined up with the national team ahead of matches against Georgia and Bulgaria on September 5 and 9.

When the news broke on Thursday about the failed test, Juventus insisted the player himself had done nothing wrong.

“In response to the news relating to an inquest opened by the anti-doping prosecutor into Fabio Cannavaro, Juventus’s medical team underlines that it acted within sanitary prescriptions and moral rules to intervene in a case of emergency following the worsening of the clinical situation as a consequence of an insect sting,” said a statement on Juventus’s website.

“In such an occasion a vital medical therapy was given to prevent potential complications, even fatal ones.”

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Portugal and Argentina struggle to qualify

In the next week there will be tragedy and ecstasy for some of the top footballing nations. Some big nations are are likely to miss out.The likes of France, Portugal and Argentina are walking the tightrope of not appearing at next years World Cup.

In European qualification usually the bigger teams qualify for the major tournaments but there always seems to one big a nation that misses out on the big showpieces. The most recent example of that being England missing Euro 2008 of course.

This time around the two best players in the world are on the verge of missing on. Two of the stars of La Liga are in very real danger of not taking part in the greatest show on earth as its been described.

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As an England fan I would shed no tears if Portugal failed to qualify for South Africa 2010. Manchester United star Wayne Rooney put it best by saying: “It would be nice to see Portugal not there because they have knocked us out of the last two tournaments.” Wayne explained exactly why I don’t want to see them at next years World Cup.

Love him or hate hes quality However their star player and current World Player of the Year Cristiano Ronaldo would be a miss if the Iberians fail to qualify. How can a major tournament not miss the World Player of the Year. I don’t have a great liking for Ronaldo as a person but as a footballer his talent is indisputable. For the last three or four years he has been consistently brilliant.

Ronaldo has had a blistering start to his career at Real Madrid and people have even said that Madrid are too over-reliant on the former Manchester United star. Unfortunately for the winker his teammates are not of the same quality and have struggled in group One.

The Scandinavians of Sweden and Denmark have overshadowed Ronaldo’s side and his side now need to win their last two games to have any chance of making the World Cup. Its unlikely that they will make the automatic berth as they are currently five points behind group leaders Denmark. However they do have the advantage of the two Scandinavians facing each other later on today in Copenhagen. v Maradona struggles as Argentina boss I have mixed feeling about whether I want Argentina to qualify.

On one hand their manager Diego Maradona may be a legend in his homeland, not to mention Scotland for his hand of God goal in 1986 but in England memories are long and unforgiving. As I was only three at the time and don’t remember that incident but for some reason I still dislike Maradona. I think its the fact that he thinks just because he was a great footballer he can just wander into the one of the hardest jobs in world football.

I would miss messi One the other hand I really want to see Barcelona’s Leo Messi on the world stage. As a self-confessed fan of Barcelona I have enjoyed watching the little magician produce virtuoso performances but for his country I feel he tries to do everything himself. He simply has to win this years World Player of the Year. He finished a close second to Ronaldo in last years awards and this should be his year.

Will they qualify? Although they look like they are currently struggling to qualify I believe both of the nations will be at next years World Cup. If Sweden get beaten by group leaders Denmark then Portugal will jump up to second place in Group One with a win against Hungary at home.

Denmark look likely to qualify as group winners and Portugal will be hoping to seal a play-off place ahead of the Swedish. Portugal’s last game is at home against group whipping boys Malta. While Sweden play Albania at home. Portugal’s fate is not in their own hands at the moment much depends on the Denmark vs Sweden clash today.

Argentina are currently fifth in the South American qualification. The top four qualify automatically and fifth place goes into the play-offs. The group is very tight with Argentina a point behind fourth place Ecuador but just two points ahead of Colombia who are third from bottom.

Maradona’s side face bottom of the group Peru later on today knowing they have to win. Their last game however is against bitter rivals Uruguay in Montevideo which could prove a fatal obstacle.

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Bahrain seek first blood against New Zealand

Bahrain will be counting on massive support from home fans and familiar conditions to draw first blood when they clash with New Zealand here on Saturday in the first leg of the final play-off for a place in the 2010 World Cup.

The second leg will be held in Wellington on November 14 and the winner of this Oceania-Asia showdown will get to play in the showpiece soccer event in South Africa next year. New Zealand’s last appearance in a World Cup finals was way back in 1982 while the Bahrainis are yet to make their debut.

Milan Macala’s team are certain to receive passionate support with the organisers having already made elaborate arrangements to see that the 25,000 capacity National Stadium is bursting at the seams on match day.

The visitors, however, received a timely boost even before making the short trip from Dubai, where they are presently training, to Manama on Friday evening with influential central defender and inspirational captain Ryan Nelsen declared fit for this crucial tie.

The Blackburn Rovers player had missed his club’s 6-2 thrashing at the hands of Arsenal in the English Premiership last week with a back injury and was doubtful for Saturday’s clash. But the team’s medical staff yesterday declared the 31-year-old fit to hand coach Ricki Herbert the luxury of choosing from a full squad.

Nelsen will be a key player for New Zealand along with Simon Elliot in midfield and Shane Smeltz and Chris Killen up front.

Coach Herbert will certainly be relying on the experience and enterprise of the seniors in the team to get the first-half of the job done before the second-leg back at home.

The combined Kiwi team have experience of professional football in England, Holland, Scotland, the United States and Australia and it’s in this area that the visitors may be holding a slight advantage. “The mood is positive and I can feel a buzz around the players,” New Zealand’s assistant coach Brian Turner said.

“This team has been four years in the making. They are now in their 20s, some of them late 20s, so there is a lot of experience, and in games like this can prove decisive.”

Bahrain too have no injury worries but the hosts will be without key defender Abdulla al-Marzooqi who is serving a four-match suspension. But Macala has not lost any sleep over it as he, for the first time in a long period, had a majority of his professional players playing in different leagues across the Gulf at his command a week in advance.

Captain and energetic midfielder Mohammed Salmeen, who missed the heart-stopping clash against Saudi Arabia which Bahrain drew 2-2 in Riyadh to win on away goals and qualify for this final play-off, is also back after serving a one-match suspension. “My players are more determined than ever to make the most of this opportunity,” said Macala.

“Both the players and fans were very upset when they lost to Trinidad and Tobago at the same stage four years ago,” said the 66-year-old Czech tactician.

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Maradona in spotlight in battle for World Cup

Argentina coach Diego Maradona will be in the spotlight as six South American countries battle for the final berths for the 2010 World Cup final starting on Saturday.

With Brazil and Paraguay already assured of their tickets to South Africa next year, Maradona’s Arge

ntina and five other teams will be vying for the two remaining automatic qualifying spots with the fifth-placed team going into a play-off. Argentina, who have been further weakened by squabbling between Maradona and general manager Carlos Bilardo, need to beat Peru on Saturday, in the penultimate qualifier.

A defeat in Buenos Aires against tailenders Peru, who are already out of the running, would not end Argentina’s World Cup dream. But it would make their task extremely difficult before their visit to dangerous rivals Uruguay on Wednesday, who could also still be looking to qualify if they draw against Ecuador at the weekend. Footballing legend Maradona acknowledged that after a disastrous qualifying campaign his job was on the line and he might quit after their must-win qualifiers.

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The 1986 world champion famously dubbed his first quarter-final goal in that year’s competition the work of the “hand of God”. Argentina are five points behind third-placed Chile (27) with Ecuador on 23. Sixth-placed Uruguay (21), Venezuela (21) and Colombia (20), are also in the running for qualification.

Bolivia (12) and Peru (10), are already ruled out, but will be eager to ensure that they avoid the humiliation of finishing last in the standings. One of the two automatic qualifying spots looks certain to go to Chile, who will qualify if they beat Colombia on Saturday.

For the other, Argentina are trailing Ecuador and are just one point ahead of Uruguay and Venezuela. Maradona’s side must also be wary of Colombia who are just two points behind them.

The slightest slip up will mean Argentina fail to qualify for the World Cup for the first time since 1970. Argentina don’t need to be reminded of that nightmare after what has been a trying time for the team this week after Manchester City’s Pablo Zabaleta picked up a hamstring injury on Monday.

The incident revealed a simmering row between the Argentina coach and Bilardo, who Maradona reportedly blames for not travelling to England to ensure that Zabaleta was freed earlier by his English team.

And the South American press has fired up the controversy even further by claiming that referees are being put under pressure to ensure that Argentina, World Cup champions in 1978 and 1986, qualify automatically.

“The only thing that worries me is the referee,” said Peru strike Johan Fano.

But Maradona’s main worry will be the configuration of his team. The former play-maker has called up 78 players since his appointment a year ago, but is still looking for the right mix, and has given the nod to debutants Liverpool defender Emiliano Insua and Real Madrid striker Gonzalo Higuain.

He has also recalled up Pablo Aimar to try and help Lionel Messi work some miracles for Argentine. Uruguay, who play Ecuador on Saturday, will have every incentive to win as they can still grab fourth spot in the group and an automatic finals berth.

“We’re all dreaming of going to the World Cup. We have to get through these two matches to make it happen,” said coach Oscar Tabarez. “It’s difficult but not impossible.”

Chile look assured of their spot in the World Cup for the first time since 1998 in France, and can qualify directly if they beat Colombia on Saturday and if Ecuador or Argentina lose.

Colombia need to win against both Chile and Paraguay to be in with a chance of making the fifth-place play-off against the fourth-placed Central American zone team.

Ecuador, meanwhile, are also dreaming of qualifying for their third consecutive World Cup finals. But they must beat Uruguay on Saturday, a result which would practically assure them the play-off spot and take a point from Chile in Santiago next week.

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MLS Review: Dempsey hat-trick inspires Sounders, Cole completes Galaxy comeback

Seattle Sounders recorded an overdue 3-1 win at Orlando City thanks to Clint Dempsey’s hat-trick in MLS on Sunday.

A day after Sebastian Giovinco’s hat-trick for Toronto FC, Sounders star Dempsey also walked away with a three-goal haul as Seattle ended their three-match winless run.

Dempsey scored twice in the first half and completed his hat-trick after the interval to snap Orlando’s 17-game home unbeaten streak.

The Sounders – second-bottom in the Western Conference – appeared destined for their 13th defeat of the season after Sebastian Hines turned in Kaka’s corner in the seventh minute. Follow Major League Soccer ✔ @MLS

Leave the Deuce this loose and this is bound to happen. #ORLvSEA #SoccerSunday 7:46 AM - 8 Aug 2016 2019 carli lloyd jersey 39 39 Retweets 89 89 likes Seattle responded within seven minutes, Dempsey teed up by Tyrone Mears for the equaliser and the United States international put the Sounders ahead in the 37th minute.

Follow Major League Soccer ✔ @MLS .@JmoSmooth13 to @clint_dempsey. Probably should get used to that. #ORLvSEA #SoccerSunday 8:09 AM - 8 Aug 2016

74 74 Retweets 173 173 likes Dempsey sealed the victory one minute into the second half, when Jordan Morris squared the ball to the 33-year-old for a simple tap-in, silencing the home crowd, who saw substitute Julio Baptista hit the crossbar with 20 minutes remaining.

Follow Major League Soccer ✔ @MLS Not a replay. @clint_dempsey's third. #ORLvSEA #SoccerSunday 8:36 AM - 8 Aug 2016

50 50 Retweets 141 141 likes carli lloyd jersey 2019 The rare home defeat left Orlando outside of the Eastern Conference’s top six, though they have a game in hand compared to New England Revolution, while the Sounders are eight points adrift of the play-off spots in the west.

Ashley Cole equalised in the 90th minute as LA Galaxy completed a stunning comeback to draw 2-2 with New York Red Bulls. Follow LA Galaxy ✔ @LAGalaxy

GET IN, @TheRealAC3! 11:31 AM - 8 Aug 2016 63 63 Retweets 118 118 likes The Red Bulls were cruising at 2-0 thanks to second-half goals from Gonzalo Veron and Sean Davis. But the Galaxy refused to surrender, with Cole earning a draw for the home side after Mike Magee pulled a goal back 10 minutes from time.

Reigning MLS Cup champions Portland Timbers, meanwhile, accounted for Sporting Kansas City 3-0. Follow Major League Soccer ✔ @MLS

That's #️⃣11 for @fanendo on the season. #PORvSKC 6:19 AM - 8 Aug 2016

33 33 Retweets 106 106 likes
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Walmsley departs Central Coast Mariners

Central Coast Mariners are on the hunt for a new head coach just two months out from the start of the new A-League season after parted ways with Tony Walmsley.

The Mariners confirmed Walmsley’s departure on Monday, not even a week after the club were knocked out of Australia’s national cup competition, the FFA Cup, by semi-professional, Victorian state league outfit Green Gully.

Walmsley coached the Mariners in 35 senior A-League games, and finished with a paltry record of just 14.3 per cent, having won just five games, drawing another five with the other 25 games coming as losses.

The Mariners finished last season bottom of the A-League table, some 12 points off next-worst Wellington Phoenix. “It’s time for me to move on to explore a number of opportunities,” Walmsley said via a statement on the club’s official website. carli lloyd jersey 18/19 “I’m happy with my contribution to the club over a number of years.

“Last year was particularly tough and I sacrificed a lot, but I’m confident the work undertaken will bear fruit. “I believe in the group of players I’ve assembled for this season and the new coach will be coming into a much healthier environment than the one I inherited.”

Mariners vice-chairman Peter Storrie added: “On behalf of the Central Coast Mariners’ board of directors I would like to thank Tony Walmsley for the level of commitment, dedication and passion that he gave to this club.

“Under Tony’s tutelage most recently as the club’s head coach and originally as head of youth development, many young Australian players have been exposed to the Hyundai A-League.

“Tony has been crucial to the major steps forward this club has taken in regards to fan engagement that was made evident during his continuous availability to initiatives such as; Member functions, pre-game Skype calls and genuine interest in fan/media engagement.
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Rio 2016: Nigeria and Portugal progress, Brazil held again

Nigeria and Portugal became the first teams to qualify for the Olympic men’s football tournament quarter-finals, while hosts Brazil were held again.

The 2008 runners-up Nigeria backed up their thrilling 5-4 win over Japan with a 1-0 victory against Group B opponents Sweden, courtesy of Sadiq Umar’s first-half goal.

Portugal, who defeated Argentina in their Rio 2016 opener, made it two wins from two in Group D on Sunday with a 2-1 come-from-behind triumph against Honduras. Neymar’s Brazil are still without a goal from their opening two Group A games of the tournament, held to another 0-0 draw, this time by Iraq.

Denmark boosted their chances of progression to the next round with a tense 1-0 win against South Africa, while Argentina got off the mark in Group D with a 2-1 victory over Algeria. Germany scored late through Serge Gnabry to salvage a 3-3 draw with South Korea in Group C, and Japan battled from two goals down to secure a 2-2 draw against Group B rivals Colombia.

Meanwhile, Fiji scored their first ever Olympic goal in their Group C clash with Mexico, but despite leading at half-time went down 5-1 to the defending champions. HIGHLIGHT

Wellington Phoenix forward Roy Krishna made history with Fiji’s first goal at the Olympics, heading the South Pacific nation into a 10th-minute lead. View image on Twitter

View image on Twitter Follow FIFA.com ✔ @FIFAcom HT: #FIJ 1-0 #MEX Roy Krishna's header sees #FIJ lead at the break#Olympics #Rio2016

12:48 AM - 8 Aug 2016 102 102 Retweets 151 151 likes PLAYER OF THE DAY However, Mexico struck back in the second period, with Erick Gutierrez scoring four of their five goals in a 5-1 win. QUOTES

“I take the blame for every chance I could not take advantage of, but I made one and I took the pressure off myself. It was as if I was fighting against the goal,” Argentina’s match-winner Jonathan Calleri on his performance in front of goal.
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carli lloyd jersey authentic “Thirty seconds is too early to say we went wrong in the game. What happened was a mistake, a bad pass and the Honduras’ player set up a goal for the striker, in a very difficult area to mark,” said Portugal coach Rui Jorge, after his side went down inside the first 30 seconds in their win against Honduras. UP NEXT The third and final group matches take place on Wednesday, with Brazil needing a win against Denmark to guarantee their spot in the last-eight. Argentina also need to beat Honduras if they are to make it through to the quarters, while Mexico have a tough clash against South Korea.

Fornaroli commits to City with three-year marquee deal

Bruno Fornaroli underlined his central status in Melbourne City’s future plans, signing a new three-year marquee deal earlier today.

The Uruguayan striker, 28, had a year remaining on his existing contract but following his 28 goal tally last season, Fornaroli’s career-best form warranted an extension, following reported interest from Sydney FC.

Fornaroli expressed his delight in the extension via a club statement. “I am really happy with this club. My first season was very enjoyable, but I want to stay here, hopefully improve more and help the team be successful and achieve its potential,” he said.

“My family and I have been made to feel very welcome. We love the club, the city, the lifestyle, the culture and Melbourne, but first and foremost I am here to play football and win for this club.”

Fornaroli broke single-season goalscoring records on his way to claiming the A-League Golden Boot and with City coach John van’t Schip reaffirming his influence on the team.
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Ogbonna: Juve can compete for Champions League without Pogba

Former Juventus defender Angelo Ogbonna insists the Serie A title holders will cope without Paul Pogba as they eye Champions League glory.

Pogba will undergo a medical at Manchester United as the 23-year-old nears a return to Old Trafford in a record transfer, after leaving the Premier League club in 2012.

Despite the France international’s impending departure, Ogbonna – now at West Ham after swapping Turin for London in 2015 – believes the Italian champions can still push on in Europe.

“I think they can [compete for the Champions League],” Ogbonna told Gazzetta World following Sunday’s 3-2 loss to Juventus at the Olympic Stadium. “They have a really good team and squad.

“They’ll miss [Paul] Pogba but they’ve got [Miralem] Pjanic and [Gonzalo] Higuain, so they’ve got a lot of quality and not much will change.”

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carli lloyd jersey kids Andy Carroll scored a brace as West Ham overturned a 2-0 deficit in London, however Simone Zaza scored in the 86th minute to lift Juventus to a late victory.

Messi congratulates Argentina´s Olympic gold medallist

After making Olympic Games history for Argentina in judo, gold medallist Paula Pareto was hailed by one of the country’s most iconic athletes Lionel Messi.

Pareto etched her name in the history books in Rio de Janeiro, becoming the first Argentine athlete to win gold in judo after taking out the women’s 48-kilogram division. Her performance in Brazil drew the attention of Argentina’s all-time leading goalscorer in football and five-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi.

Enjoying his day off following Barcelona’s shock 4-0 pre-season loss to Liverpool on Saturday, Messi took to social media to show his support for Pareto and Argentina.

“Congratulations to La Peque on winning Argentina’s first gold in Rio,” Messi wrote via Facebook on Sunday. “All of those years of effort have paid off!

“I hope that this medal is the first of many for our nation at these Olympics!” A photo posted by Leo Messi (@leomessi) on Aug 7, 2016 at 11:17am PDT Messi’s future with Argentina is uncertain after his stunning announcement to retire from international football in June.

The 29-year-old made the surprise revelation after Argentina suffered a heartbreaking penalty shoot-out loss to Chile in the Copa America Centenario final last month – his fourth defeat in major finals in nine years.
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Xavi tips revolutionary Guardiola to succeed at City

According to former Barcelona captain Xavi, new Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is “one of the few people” who can change the English game. Guardiola headlines a recent influx of world-class managers into the Premier League, including Antonio Conte (Chelsea) and Jurgen Klopp (Liverpool), following his arrival from German champions Bayern Munich.

But Xavi, who plays for Qatari team Al Sadd, believes his former coach and team-mate has the capability to make a lasting philosophical impact on English football. “He changed world football. He did not just change Barca, he changed world football. I think he is one of the few people who can change English football,” Xavi said during a Sky Sports documentary focused on the manager.

Guardiola’s appointment was first confirmed in February amid much fanfare in the blue half of Manchester, after highly successful periods with Barcelona and Bayern.

With Xavi and Andres Iniesta as the focal point in Barcelona’s high-volume passing and aggressive pressing, particularly, Guardiola’s style redefined the modern game tactically.

Barcelona won three LaLiga titles and the Champions League twice during Guardiola’s four seasons at Camp Nou, and after a sabbatical, he guided Bayern to three consecutive Bundesliga crowns in three years.

Despite his intimidating managerial CV, Guardiola’s move to the Premier League is expected to be his toughest challenge yet. However, Xavi believes it is a challenge Guardiola will overcome.

“The first thing I remember him saying as a coach was that he would not tolerate any player working hard,” Xavi said. “‘This is the only thing that I require, that you work hard for the group’. This was a surprise for us. The high pressing was brilliant. It was a real football revolution, a modern kind of football.

“Within a few years, no one played long balls anymore. Even Real Madrid changed their style. Pep’s first year started this football revolution. We made history. Not just for the victories, but also for the way we played.”
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Leicester didn´t deserve to lose to United – Fuchs

Full-back Christian Fuchs claimed Leicester City’s 2-1 defeat to Manchester United in the Community Shield was not a fair result.

Premier League champions Leicester were undone by Zlatan Ibrahimovic at Wembley, with the star recruit’s 83rd-minute winner deciding the contest on Sunday.

Penalties looked likely in London as the match petered out for a draw after Jamie Vardy pounced on Marouane Fellaini’s attempted back pass to equalise seven minutes into the second half, cancelling out Jesse Lingard’s stunning solo effort in the 32nd minute.

While lamenting the loss, Fuchs insisted Leicester are ready to defend their Premier League crown.

“I think it was a good performance and we had our chances, a couple more chances than United,” he said “We didn’t give away many chances. Unfortunately, they had Ibrahimovic who can score something out of nothing. Well done to them.

“I think a draw would have been fair over 90 minutes. After we conceded the second goal, then we still had a very good chance just before the end of the game. We can live with that because we showed a good performance and we are ready for the Premier League.”

Leicester will kick-off their title defence at newly-promoted Hull City on Saturday, more than three months after stunning the sporting world. Ranked 5000-1 outsiders to win the league after narrowly avoiding relegation in 2014-15, Claudio Ranieri somehow guided Leicester to the English summit, upstaging defending champions Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester City and United.

Asked about Leicester’s stunning achievement – an all-too common question in the off-season – Fuchs said: “There was simply no time to think about it. The time was too short with the Euros and that. The season is starting already so not now. When I am old. “There are a lot of tough teams, some great teams. Leicester included? No, we don’t ask from ourselves to win the Premier League again, not at all.

“No, that is not us. We are realistic. If we are mentioned along with those big teams, okay, we will take it, but we are only Leicester City.
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Lallana excited for Liverpool team-mate Mane

Adam Lallana is excited to see Sadio Mane light up Anfield on a regular basis after a string of impressive pre-season showings for new club Liverpool.

Mane was a £30million acquisition during the off-season for Liverpool after signing from Southampton and the forward has hit the ground running, impressing in Liverpool’s 4-0 demolition of Barcelona.

The Senegal international brings lightning pace and an eye for goal to the Liverpool team and manager Jurgen Klopp will looking for Mane to come up big when the Premier League season kicks off at the weekend against Arsenal and Lallana -formerly of Southampton himself – thinks his boss has signed a real gem.

“I knew straight away what he was about. I knew what he was going to bring to the team, regardless of what everyone has seen in pre-season,” he said.

“You saw all those different parts against Barcelona but I saw them all in his first couple of sessions with us. “We have seen it from working with him what he can do. I was never worried about him settling. He could have had a goal against AC Milan but it didn’t matter.

“I could see what he was going to bring to this team. He is different to what we have got. He is unpredictable.” Mane scored Liverpool’s opener in the game and notched an assist when his cross was deflected into the Barcelona goal by defender Javier Mascherano, moments which proved his unpredictability according to Lallana.

“Sadio can go down the outside, he can come inside, he has got a goal in his locker like he produced against Barcelona,” added Lallana.

“He’s a very good addition to the squad, believe me. I think we have got loads of different players who can play loads of different positions.

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Giggs wants to manage but dismisses Wales link

Former Manchester United assistant Ryan Giggs reiterated his desire to manage, though he played down the possibility of doing so as Wales boss.

Giggs has reportedly emerged as a target for the Football Association of Wales (FAW) should manager Chris Coleman depart for newly-promoted Premier League outfit Hull City. 

The 42-year-old Giggs left Old Trafford at the end of last season following Jose Mourinho’s appointment, having worked under ex-United managers David Moyes and Louis van Gaal.

And Welshman Giggs once again voiced his ambition to move into management, saying: “Ultimately I want to be a coach, I want to be a manager. I want to have my own team.

“And of course I’ve got my own ideas, I’ve got my own thoughts on how the game should be played but I’m in no rush. “I’ve had a tremendous education. I had a great two years working under Louis [van Gaal] – a fantastic experience for me as a young coach to see someone like that up close first hand – seeing how he works.

“And of course I’ve got my own ideas, I’ve got my own thoughts on how the game should be played but I’m in no rush. “I’m enjoying life at the moment, how long that will last I don’t know if I miss it. I don’t miss it at the moment but ultimately I want to get back in the game as a manager.”

Pressed on the Wales job and asked if he was interested in leading his native country, Giggs added: “No. Chris Coleman is doing a fantastic job.”
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Pogba transfer fee ´absolutely crazy´ – Wenger

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger feels the €120 million transfer fee Manchester United are believed to be willing to pay for Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba is “absolutely crazy”, but has admitted the Old Trafford sides revenues might justify it.

The France international is widely expected to set a new world transfer record, beating the €100m Real Madrid paid to sign Gareth Bale from Tottenham, by swapping Turin for Manchester.

Wenger thinks fees might approach the €200m mark in the not too distant future if the current developments continue.

“The Pogba transfer fee? It is completely crazy if you cannot afford to pay it. If you can afford to pay it you can justify it. But it is completely crazy if you compare it to normal life. That is for sure,” Wenger was quoted as saying by The Daily Mail.

“But we live in a world where every activity that is worldwide makes a lot of money. Football has become a worldwide competition and that is why clubs can afford to do it. “Does it make sense in the way the player can give you that investment back? Nobody ever could calculate.

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Bailly reveals Manchester City snub in favour of United

Manchester United defender Eric Bailly has revealed Manchester City also showed an interest in signing him from Villarreal, but he only wanted a transfer to Old Trafford because of the presence of Jose Mourinho.

Pep Guardiola’s assistant approached the centre-back to sound him out over a potential transfer to City, but they never stood a chance once Mourinho made his move, with fellow Ivorian Didier Drogba advising him to team up with the Portuguese manager.

“I signed for United because I like Mourinho, as simple as that,” Bailly told The Sun. “I wanted to play for someone who works very hard. “I didn’t speak to Pep Guardiola, but the ‘second’ manager called me.

“Mourinho called me as well and he told me to come and play for him. I prefer Mourinho, in part because of Didier Drogba, who worked with him. Didier is a friend and he told me Jose did a lot for him.

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Messi lacking Maradona´s personality – Sacchi

Former AC Milan and Italy coach Arrigo Sacchi feels Diego Maradona was a better player than Lionel Messi and believes the Barcelona star does not have the same strong personality his compatriot had.

Messi is widely regarded as one of the best players in the history of the game and a has won a plethora of medals with Barcelona, while collecting the prestigious Ballon d’Or award on five occasions.

However, Sacchi believes Maradona has the edge as he proved his talent in LaLiga and Serie A with Barcelona and Napoli respectively. “Messi is the best player in the world right now, but he lacks Maradona’s personality. Maradona could play anywhere. Diego made the difference in Spain and Italy,” Sacchi told La Nacion.

“Maradona and Alfredo Di Stefano are Argentina’s two greatest players ever. Playing against Maradona was the worst thing that could happen to you. I have never seen anyone like him. He could create something from out of nowhere.

“We once played against him with Milan and totally dominated. Then Diego got the ball, shook off two players and set up Careca, who scored the 1-0 for them. I have never seen someone who was so decisive.” One of the criticisms levelled at Messi is his failure to match his supreme domestic record on the international stage with Argentina, while Maradona spearheaded the nation’s World Cup victory in 1986.

But Sacchi says that is an unfair comparison. “A team has a certain potential and not even Messi can unlock that on his own. Argentina are missing a clear game plan. You can never rely on just one player,” Sacchi added.

“I once told Silvio Berlusconi that not even the greatest actors could save a movie without a great script, not even Robert De Niro, Jack Nicholson or George Clooney.

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Vardy: Rejecting Arsenal an easy decision

Leicester City striker Jamie Vardy has stressed that rejecting a move to Arsenal was an easy decision for him and has claimed a transfer was never a realistic option.

The England international was believed to be close to joining Arsenal ahead of Euro 2016 after the Emirates side triggered his release clause, but he eventually signed a new contract with Leicester instead.

The 29-year-old has now reflected on his decision to stay put and is adamant staying at the Premier League champions was an easy call in the end. “[Turning down Arsenal] wasn’t that big when I think about it. It was quite easy and this is where I want to be,” Vardy told Sky Sports.

“I was away with England so [a move to Arsenal wasn’t close]. No [I didn’t speak to them.] “There’s a lot of unfinished business here. I feel that the club is only going one way and that is forward, that’s why I want to be a part of it.”

The prolific attacker also had his say on the situation of Riyad Mahrez, who has been linked with a move away from Leicester, and has admitted he is keen for the Algeria international to stay put.

“I think everyone in the squad would want him here, playing with us,” Vardy added.
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Sociedad bring in Willian Jose

Former Brazil Under-20 international Willian Jose has joined Real Sociedad from Deportivo Maldonado on a five-year deal.

The 24-year-old striker, who made his LaLiga debut for Real Madrid in 2014, has since had loan spells with Real Zaragoza and Las Palmas.

Willian Jose scored nine league goals for Las Palmas last season and will complete the transfer pending the formalisation of his contract. View image on Twitter

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New season a decisive one for Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool

The new Premier League campaign promises to be an exciting one. Big name foreign bosses have arrived in the shape of Pep Guardiola and Antonio Conte.

In the case of Jose Mourinho, a big name has returned to the English top-flight. However, for one highly-rated boss who was managing in the Premier League last season Jurgen Klopp, next season could be a decisive one in his career as Liverpool boss.

His squad, no excuses alex morgan jersey home The Kop boss has recently been talking about his squad and how pleased he is with his options.

On Saturday the German boss told Sky Sports: “This is my squad now,” “After all the transfers…this time, it is my team. There are probably no players here anymore I don’t want. There are no signings I didn’t want, we have not sold anyone I didn’t want to.

“And if you have seen them in training, there is a special quality that we did not have last year. Above all, you can see we have created a special atmosphere, not only in our team but with our fans.”

The German also stated that there will no excuses ‘like he needs more time’ and that his team will fight for every trophy next season. alex morgan jersey away Reshaped his squad this summer

The Liverpool boss has been very busy in the transfer market strengthening his squad this summer. The former-BVB boss has also been busy offloading players as well. The two highest profile signings have been that of Georginio Wijnaldum from relegated Newcastle and Sadio Mane from Southampton.

Both arrived for big money having impressed immensely last season in the Premier League. The pair seem to be impressive signings, but both will need to step up their level of consistency if they are to find their top form next season.

Some of the other signings are slightly more interesting, as the likes of Mario Grujic, Joel Matip, Ragnar Klavan and Loris Karius are all unknown quantities to most Premier League fans.

Klopp obviously has good knowledge of Klavan, Matip and Karius, as all three signed from clubs in the Bundesliga, the German’s former haunt. All four of those signings have Klopp written all over them. In the past, he has pulled some fantastic rabbits out the hat at Dortmund. He built his teams on those sorts of signings. He plucked the likes of Robert Lewandowski and Shinji Kagawa out obscurity and they went on to be key players in his Bundesliga-winning side.

 His work in the transfer work has to be applauded. People will say the German has spent a lot of money, but he has recouped quite a bit as well. Jordon Ibe and Brad Smith left for Bournemouth for £15million and £6million respectively, Joe Allen joined Stoke for £13million and Martin Skrtel joined Fenerbahce for £6million.

There is also a number of players whose futures are in doubt at Anfield, the likes of Lazar Markovic and Christian Benteke and Mario Balotelli, who if sold are likely to recoup a fair bit of money.

home alex morgan jersey To be fair Klopp has reshaped his squad and may even end the summer transfer in the red, depending on whether he brings in any more players. Aiming for top four

Liverpool and Klopp’s aim has to be to finish in the top-four next season, which they are odds of 11/8 to achieve. The Reds were the Jekyll and Hyde of the Premier League last season. When they were good they were very good, but when they were bad they were very bad.

There was evidence that Klopp’s football philosophy and ideas were getting through to the team, but the results were mixed. At the end of the campaign the team from Merseyside finished a disappointing eighth in the Premier League table. The Reds also reached the Capital One Cup and Europa League finals but lost to Manchester City and Sevilla respectively.

Maybe now that Klopp has been able to sign some of the players he wants, the team will find a greater level of consistency. Klopp is refreshingly honest about his team and it is hard to dislike the guy.

Competition for a top-four place will be tougher than ever in the new campaign, but that has to be the aim for the Reds next season. Arguably anything else will be regarded as a failure for the highly-rated German boss.
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´A mix of Kaka and Ronaldo´ – Pjaca´s agent talks up new Juve signing

Marko Pjaca’s agent says the Juventus winger embodies the combined qualities of Cristiano Ronaldo and Kaka. The Serie A champions signed Pjaca from Dinamo Zagreb for €23million this month following an impressive showing for Croatia at Euro 2016.

But rather than easing the pressure on the 21-year-old’s shoulders, agent Marko Naletilic has been heaping lofty praise on his client to raise expectations.

“Comparisons are always difficult, but Marko I see it as a mix of Kaka and Cristiano Ronaldo,” he told Tuttosport. “Pjaca is slower than Cristiano Ronaldo, but is more unpredictable. Marko is an artist [and] also recalls the genius of [Dejan] Savicevic.”

Naletilic claims Pjaca had a wealth of suitors to choose from, but opted for Juve as he “understood the power and ambition” of the club.

During his two-year-stay at Dinamo, Pjaca won the league title and Croatian Football Cup in the 2014-15 season.
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Ancelotti unhappy with Ribery temper

Bayern Munich coach Carlo Ancelotti has warned Franck Ribery over his behaviour in the wake of their 4-1 International Champions Cup win over Inter.

The Frenchman made the headlines for all the wrong reasons last week when he criticised former coach Pep Guardiola, with chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge telling the 33-year-old his comments were out of order.

Ribery was looking to leave that controversy behind him in the match versus Inter, only to anger the Bayern hierarchy again following a run-in with Inter midfielder Felipe Melo.

The winger, who scored the Bavarians’ second goal in Charlotte, was involved in a number of clashes with the Brazilian as he seemed to be gunning for revenge after an early foul and eventually earned himself a booking, much to the dismay of Ancelotti.

“I don’t like players who behave like that,” Ancelotti told reporters following Ribery’s display.

“I told him that I don’t like that sort of behaviour and I told him to stop doing it.
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Injured Brazil goalkeeper Prass to miss Olympics

Veteran Brazil goalkeeper Fernando Prass has been ruled out of the Rio Olympics after suffering a fractured elbow. The 38-year-old, who was a surprise inclusion in the squad, was injured in the warm-up for Saturday’s match against Japan.

Scans revealed the extent of the injury and the Palmeiras goalkeeper expressed his sorrow on Twitter.

“I have endeavoured to realise the dream of being a Brazilian national team player. But, unfortunately, it is not to be,” he wrote.

“The examination carried out today showed a fractured elbow and I cannot compete in the Olympics.

“I’ll take care of myself and come back even stronger to lead Palmeiras and, who knows, maybe make the [Brazil] squad again.”
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Schalke reach agreement for Sevilla captain Coke

Coke is primed to swap Sevilla for Schalke after the Bundesliga club announced a deal was in its final stages.

The 29-year-old full-back passed a medical on Sunday and will on Monday complete the “last formalities” of the deal.

Captain Coke has been an integral part of the Sevilla side that claimed a record three consecutive Europa League titles, scoring twice in May’s 3-1 final victory over Liverpool.

He leaves after five years at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan and joins a Schalke side already boosted by the arrival of young Belgium striker Breel Embolo.

Schalke finished fifth last season under Andre Breitenreiter, who has since been succeeded by Markus Weinzierl.
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