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If you thought two-time Formula One world champion Fernando Alonso rated Cristiano Ronaldo as the best player in the world because he is a Real Madrid fan, you would be wrong.
Somewhat controversially, the Spanish F1 McLaren driver is in the corner of Barcelona star Lionel Messi when it comes to the debate of the world’s best player.
Speaking at a promotional event in Argentina, Alonso even admitted he has travelled to Camp Nou just to see the five-time Ballon d’Or winner in action.
“I’m a Real Madrid fan but Messi is the best player in the world,” Alonso, who is preparing for this weekend’s Brazilian Grand Prix, told Clarin.
“I really like Argentine players like Gonzalo Higuain and Fernando Gago. running walking shoes womens
“I’ve gone to the Camp Nou just to see Messi.”
Messi has enjoyed a stellar start to the season, scoring eight goals in nine LaLiga matches.
All in all, the 29-year-old Argentina international has netted 16 times in all competitions, seven of those coming in the Champions League.
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Herrera hails honest Mourinho
Manchester United players best paid in world football
No broken foot for Griezmann
Lukaku enjoying Martinez´s ´fun´ Belgium tactics
A new look for 2016, this is the Samantha Mewis jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Stephanie McCaffrey, Emily Sonnett, Christen Press, Jaelene Hinkle and Crystal Dunn. carli lloyd jersey Abby Wambach Santos hails Quaresma impact as Portugal survive Latvia scare
Sunday, November 13, 2016
Colombia 0 Chile 0: Honours even on Falcao return
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Radamel Falcao’s return from the international wilderness failed to spark Colombia into life as they were held to a 0-0 draw in their CONMEBOL World Cup qualifier with Chile.
Falcao had not featured for Colombia in 13 months prior to Thursday’s clash in Barranquilla, but his second-half introduction could not inspire the hosts to victory.
Opportunities were at a premium for the Monaco striker as Colombia failed to significantly strengthen their position in the top four of the qualifying group – James Rodriguez and substitute Luis Muriel wasting late half-chances.
Chile captain Claudio Bravo kept his side in the game in the opening 45 minutes with good saves to deny Oscar Murillo and debutant Miguel Borja. Bravo’s day ended in disappointment, though, as he left the field injured just after hour – giving Chile and Manchester City plenty to worry about. Chile will hope for good news regarding his fitness – and for Arturo Vidal, who also came off with a knock – ahead of their next qualifier with Uruguay on Tuesday, while Colombia meet Argentina in San Juan.
A tight opening saw the visitors enjoy the better of proceedings, while 23-year-old Borja caused problems for the Chile defence with his blistering pace. With no Alexis Sanchez, Chile looked to Bayern Munich midfielder Vidal for inspiration and he very nearly delivered after 17 minutes with a controlled volley that flew just wide of David Ospina’s goal.
A needless foul by Charles Aranguiz on Edwin Cardona with nine minutes of the half to play nearly brought the opening goal, but Oscar Murillo headed straight at Bravo from Rodriguez’s delivery. Eduardo Vargas – starting in place of the absent Sanchez – worked Ospina with a volley from 20 yards just before the break, but it failed to stretch the Arsenal goalkeeper.
Bravo had to be much more alert in stoppage time as Abel Aguilar flicked on another Rodriguez free-kick, only for Borja to see his volley superbly saved by the Chile captain. It was his last meaningful involvement, however, as a heavy collision with Santiago Arias brought an early end to his match.
As he denied the Colombian full-back with a perfectly executed sliding tackle, Bravo was caught by Arias and, despite trying to carry on, he was soon replaced by Johnny Herrera.
A raft of cynical challenges from both sides ensured the game struggled to build up any momentum, although with time running out things finally began to open up.
Falcao managed to wriggle free after 78 minutes following good work by fellow substitute Muriel only to see his effort well blocked, while Jose Fuenzalida dragged Chile’s best opening wide moments later.
A new look for 2016, this is the Stephanie McCaffrey jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Emily Sonnett, Jaelene Hinkle, Meghan Klingenberg, Crystal Dunn and Christen Press. tobin heath jersey Julie Johnston Muriel could have twice won it late on for the hosts, but he blazed both efforts over the crossbar to sum up a frustrating game for both sides.
Falcao had not featured for Colombia in 13 months prior to Thursday’s clash in Barranquilla, but his second-half introduction could not inspire the hosts to victory.
Opportunities were at a premium for the Monaco striker as Colombia failed to significantly strengthen their position in the top four of the qualifying group – James Rodriguez and substitute Luis Muriel wasting late half-chances.
Chile captain Claudio Bravo kept his side in the game in the opening 45 minutes with good saves to deny Oscar Murillo and debutant Miguel Borja. Bravo’s day ended in disappointment, though, as he left the field injured just after hour – giving Chile and Manchester City plenty to worry about. Chile will hope for good news regarding his fitness – and for Arturo Vidal, who also came off with a knock – ahead of their next qualifier with Uruguay on Tuesday, while Colombia meet Argentina in San Juan.
A tight opening saw the visitors enjoy the better of proceedings, while 23-year-old Borja caused problems for the Chile defence with his blistering pace. With no Alexis Sanchez, Chile looked to Bayern Munich midfielder Vidal for inspiration and he very nearly delivered after 17 minutes with a controlled volley that flew just wide of David Ospina’s goal.
A needless foul by Charles Aranguiz on Edwin Cardona with nine minutes of the half to play nearly brought the opening goal, but Oscar Murillo headed straight at Bravo from Rodriguez’s delivery. Eduardo Vargas – starting in place of the absent Sanchez – worked Ospina with a volley from 20 yards just before the break, but it failed to stretch the Arsenal goalkeeper.
Bravo had to be much more alert in stoppage time as Abel Aguilar flicked on another Rodriguez free-kick, only for Borja to see his volley superbly saved by the Chile captain. It was his last meaningful involvement, however, as a heavy collision with Santiago Arias brought an early end to his match.
As he denied the Colombian full-back with a perfectly executed sliding tackle, Bravo was caught by Arias and, despite trying to carry on, he was soon replaced by Johnny Herrera.
A raft of cynical challenges from both sides ensured the game struggled to build up any momentum, although with time running out things finally began to open up.
Falcao managed to wriggle free after 78 minutes following good work by fellow substitute Muriel only to see his effort well blocked, while Jose Fuenzalida dragged Chile’s best opening wide moments later.
A new look for 2016, this is the Stephanie McCaffrey jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Emily Sonnett, Jaelene Hinkle, Meghan Klingenberg, Crystal Dunn and Christen Press. tobin heath jersey Julie Johnston Muriel could have twice won it late on for the hosts, but he blazed both efforts over the crossbar to sum up a frustrating game for both sides.
Deschamps retains belief in Giroud
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Didier Deschamps has not lost faith in Olivier Giroud’s ability to deliver for France, despite the Arsenal striker struggling for form this season.
Giroud missed out on the last round of international fixtures due to a toe injury, a problem that also hampered his progress in the Premier League under Arsene Wenger.
The striker is yet to start in the league for the Gunners, but has shown glimpses of his form returning in recent matches with three goals in his last three games in all competitions and was named in Deschamps’ squad for Friday’s World Cup qualifier with Sweden and friendly with Ivory Coast next week.
And Deschamps is confident the 30-year-old still has plenty to offer the Euro 2016 finalists. “He [Giroud] is not 100 per cent fit, I know it and he knows it too,” Deschamps told a media conference.
“He has started one match [this season] because he was injured, and that is why he couldn’t be with us last month. But do not interpret that in one way or in another.
“I took him in September even though he hadn’t played, and he played the first and the second game. “I know what Olivier is able to do and Kevin [Gameiro] too. All this plays a part in my thinking.” Thu 10 Nov, 2016RSS Feed LAST 5 POSTS BY SOCCERNEWS
Herrera hails honest Mourinho Manchester United players best paid in world football No broken foot for Griezmann Lukaku enjoying Martinez´s ´fun´ Belgium tactics
A new look for 2016, this is the Crystal Dunn jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Christen Press, Meghan Klingenberg, Julie Johnston, Alyssa Naeher and Abby Wambach. hope solo jersey Lori Chalupny Santos hails Quaresma impact as Portugal survive Latvia scare
Giroud missed out on the last round of international fixtures due to a toe injury, a problem that also hampered his progress in the Premier League under Arsene Wenger.
The striker is yet to start in the league for the Gunners, but has shown glimpses of his form returning in recent matches with three goals in his last three games in all competitions and was named in Deschamps’ squad for Friday’s World Cup qualifier with Sweden and friendly with Ivory Coast next week.
And Deschamps is confident the 30-year-old still has plenty to offer the Euro 2016 finalists. “He [Giroud] is not 100 per cent fit, I know it and he knows it too,” Deschamps told a media conference.
“He has started one match [this season] because he was injured, and that is why he couldn’t be with us last month. But do not interpret that in one way or in another.
“I took him in September even though he hadn’t played, and he played the first and the second game. “I know what Olivier is able to do and Kevin [Gameiro] too. All this plays a part in my thinking.” Thu 10 Nov, 2016RSS Feed LAST 5 POSTS BY SOCCERNEWS
Herrera hails honest Mourinho Manchester United players best paid in world football No broken foot for Griezmann Lukaku enjoying Martinez´s ´fun´ Belgium tactics
A new look for 2016, this is the Crystal Dunn jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Christen Press, Meghan Klingenberg, Julie Johnston, Alyssa Naeher and Abby Wambach. hope solo jersey Lori Chalupny Santos hails Quaresma impact as Portugal survive Latvia scare
Concern for City as Bravo injured on Chile duty
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Manchester City face an anxious wait to discover the extent of goalkeeper Claudio Bravo’s leg injury picked up during Chile’s World Cup qualifier with Colombia.
Bravo took a knock early on in Barranquilla after a challenge with Miguel Borja, but was able to continue and kept his side in the match with two impressive saves.
His second-half involvement saw another heavy tackle when trying to stop the marauding Santiago Arias. As the Colombian raced into the penalty area, Bravo came out and made a perfectly-timed challenge, but Arias’ follow through left the goalkeeper in pain.
Again he continued, but on the hour he needed further treatment and reluctantly left the field to be replaced by Johnny Herrera.
It remains to be seen whether Bravo will be fit for Chile’s next qualifier with Uruguay on Tuesday, and City’s Premier League trip to Crystal Palace on November 19. Thu 10 Nov, 2016RSS Feed LAST 5 POSTS BY SOCCERNEWS
Herrera hails honest Mourinho Manchester United players best paid in world football No broken foot for Griezmann
Lukaku enjoying Martinez´s ´fun´ Belgium tactics Santos hails Quaresma impact as Portugal survive Latvia scare
A new look for 2016, this is the Jaelene Hinkle jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Crystal Dunn, Christen Press, Abby Wambach, Meghan Klingenberg and Alyssa Naeher. heather o'reilly jersey Tobin Heath by Taboola Sponsored Links From the Web
Bravo took a knock early on in Barranquilla after a challenge with Miguel Borja, but was able to continue and kept his side in the match with two impressive saves.
His second-half involvement saw another heavy tackle when trying to stop the marauding Santiago Arias. As the Colombian raced into the penalty area, Bravo came out and made a perfectly-timed challenge, but Arias’ follow through left the goalkeeper in pain.
Again he continued, but on the hour he needed further treatment and reluctantly left the field to be replaced by Johnny Herrera.
It remains to be seen whether Bravo will be fit for Chile’s next qualifier with Uruguay on Tuesday, and City’s Premier League trip to Crystal Palace on November 19. Thu 10 Nov, 2016RSS Feed LAST 5 POSTS BY SOCCERNEWS
Herrera hails honest Mourinho Manchester United players best paid in world football No broken foot for Griezmann
Lukaku enjoying Martinez´s ´fun´ Belgium tactics Santos hails Quaresma impact as Portugal survive Latvia scare
A new look for 2016, this is the Jaelene Hinkle jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Crystal Dunn, Christen Press, Abby Wambach, Meghan Klingenberg and Alyssa Naeher. heather o'reilly jersey Tobin Heath by Taboola Sponsored Links From the Web
Capello: I made Ibrahimovic watch Van Basten videos
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Former Juventus coach Fabio Capello revealed he helped Manchester United striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic improve his finishing by studying Dutch great Marco van Basten.
Ibrahimovic and Capello worked together at Juventus for two years from 2004 to 2006, winning back-to-back Serie A titles in Turin before both Scudettos were revoked due to the Calciopoli match-fixing scandal.
The Swedish star has since gone on to win trophies with Inter, Barcelona, AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain. And reflecting on Ibrahimovic’s career, Capello said he transformed the 35-year-old in front of goal at Juve with some help from Van Basten – regarded as one of the greatest players of all time.
“Ibrahimovic had a stunning technique,” Capello has told Premium Sport. “When I moved to Juventus, I immediately asked the club to sign him. I wanted to bring him to Roma in the previous campaign, but we had already [Francesco] Totti, [Antonio] Cassano, [Gabriel] Batistuta, [Vincenzo] Montella and [Marco] Delvecchio.
“At the beginning of his first spell at Juventus, however, I noticed that he was weaker than I thought when he had to kick the ball and was not very strong in the air.
“Ibrahimovic loved making assists more than scoring goals. I wanted him to become more ruthless in front of goal and improve his finishing.
“He had the same technical skills as Van Basten and I made him watch some videos of him to improve his finishing. I told him to watch Van Basten’s movements inside the area and the way he used to score goals. Ibra got it straight away; I think results are out there to prove it.
“He is a very humble guy and he worked every day to improve He’s proud of himself too, he loves being the best.”
A new look for 2016, this is the Emily Sonnett jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Jaelene Hinkle, Crystal Dunn, Alyssa Naeher, Christen Press and Meghan Klingenberg. Tobin Heath Jersey 2020 Ashlyn Harris Ibrahimovic, who has scored 400 career goals, is in his first season for United, netting six goals in 11 Premier League appearances so far.
Ibrahimovic and Capello worked together at Juventus for two years from 2004 to 2006, winning back-to-back Serie A titles in Turin before both Scudettos were revoked due to the Calciopoli match-fixing scandal.
The Swedish star has since gone on to win trophies with Inter, Barcelona, AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain. And reflecting on Ibrahimovic’s career, Capello said he transformed the 35-year-old in front of goal at Juve with some help from Van Basten – regarded as one of the greatest players of all time.
“Ibrahimovic had a stunning technique,” Capello has told Premium Sport. “When I moved to Juventus, I immediately asked the club to sign him. I wanted to bring him to Roma in the previous campaign, but we had already [Francesco] Totti, [Antonio] Cassano, [Gabriel] Batistuta, [Vincenzo] Montella and [Marco] Delvecchio.
“At the beginning of his first spell at Juventus, however, I noticed that he was weaker than I thought when he had to kick the ball and was not very strong in the air.
“Ibrahimovic loved making assists more than scoring goals. I wanted him to become more ruthless in front of goal and improve his finishing.
“He had the same technical skills as Van Basten and I made him watch some videos of him to improve his finishing. I told him to watch Van Basten’s movements inside the area and the way he used to score goals. Ibra got it straight away; I think results are out there to prove it.
“He is a very humble guy and he worked every day to improve He’s proud of himself too, he loves being the best.”
A new look for 2016, this is the Emily Sonnett jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Jaelene Hinkle, Crystal Dunn, Alyssa Naeher, Christen Press and Meghan Klingenberg. Tobin Heath Jersey 2020 Ashlyn Harris Ibrahimovic, who has scored 400 career goals, is in his first season for United, netting six goals in 11 Premier League appearances so far.
Klose excited to learn from Low
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Miroslav Klose hopes to glean as much as possible from working with Joachim Low having joined the Germany coaching staff following his retirement.
The 38-year-old announced the end of his illustrious playing career earlier this month following the expiry of his contract with Lazio in June.
Klose made 137 appearances for Germany during his career with an impressive 71 goals making him his country’s all-time goalscorer – while also becoming the leading World Cup marksman with 16.
As part of the next stage of his career, Klose took up a coaching position with the national team and will get his first experience alongside Low when Germany travel to San Marino on Friday. “I am really happy to be again a part of this big family, and to have the chance to work here,” Klose told a media conference.
“I thought about it for a long time. As a player, I was always interested in tactics and how I can get better. Now I’ve decided to get a new view on football as a possible coach in the future.
“To have the chance to work with a World Cup-winning coach is special and not everybody gets that opportunity. I want to soak up as much as possible that will help me in the future. “I’ve been accepted wonderfully into the coaching team. They integrated with me from the first second and it’s a big honour for me.”
Low, meanwhile, believes Klose’s experience can bring a new dimension to the national team set-up.
He said: “We are happy to have Miroslav Klose with us. He is not only a role model for the younger players, he can take on an area of specialisation. For example running as a striker and movement etc.
“Therefore we will use him in these processes, he will analyse our attack and offer some tips to our players.
“Now we will start with the initial work, and in March he will be with us. We will have meetings with him and there will be the Confed[erations] Cup, too.”
A new look for 2016, this is the Christen Press jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Meghan Klingenberg, Alyssa Naeher, Ashlyn Harris, Abby Wambach and Julie Johnston. mallory pugh jersey Megan Rapinoe Thu 10 Nov, 2016RSS Feed LAST 5 POSTS BY SOCCERNEWS
The 38-year-old announced the end of his illustrious playing career earlier this month following the expiry of his contract with Lazio in June.
Klose made 137 appearances for Germany during his career with an impressive 71 goals making him his country’s all-time goalscorer – while also becoming the leading World Cup marksman with 16.
As part of the next stage of his career, Klose took up a coaching position with the national team and will get his first experience alongside Low when Germany travel to San Marino on Friday. “I am really happy to be again a part of this big family, and to have the chance to work here,” Klose told a media conference.
“I thought about it for a long time. As a player, I was always interested in tactics and how I can get better. Now I’ve decided to get a new view on football as a possible coach in the future.
“To have the chance to work with a World Cup-winning coach is special and not everybody gets that opportunity. I want to soak up as much as possible that will help me in the future. “I’ve been accepted wonderfully into the coaching team. They integrated with me from the first second and it’s a big honour for me.”
Low, meanwhile, believes Klose’s experience can bring a new dimension to the national team set-up.
He said: “We are happy to have Miroslav Klose with us. He is not only a role model for the younger players, he can take on an area of specialisation. For example running as a striker and movement etc.
“Therefore we will use him in these processes, he will analyse our attack and offer some tips to our players.
“Now we will start with the initial work, and in March he will be with us. We will have meetings with him and there will be the Confed[erations] Cup, too.”
A new look for 2016, this is the Christen Press jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Meghan Klingenberg, Alyssa Naeher, Ashlyn Harris, Abby Wambach and Julie Johnston. mallory pugh jersey Megan Rapinoe Thu 10 Nov, 2016RSS Feed LAST 5 POSTS BY SOCCERNEWS
FIFA reject poppy request from Wales
Wales will not wear poppies to commemorate Remembrance weekend when they face Serbia on Saturday to avoid potential sanctions from FIFA.
England and Scotland could suffer punishments ranging from fines to points deductions from world football’s governing body after confirming they will wear black armbands embroidered with a poppy to commemorate Britain’s war dead.
FIFA regulations prohibit political symbols on kits, but Football Association chief executive Martin Glenn reiterated England will not change their stance when he addressed a Sport Industry Group event in London.
“We think they’re interpreting the rules wrongly,” he said. “This is a law-of-the-game issue, not a FIFA competition issue. Our case is absolutely rock solid.” But the Football Association of Wales (FAW) have been persuaded against taking a similarly hard line after approaching FIFA and will wear plain black armbands in a show of respect.
An FAW statement read: “FIFA have turned down a request made by the FAW for the Wales national team to wear poppies on their shirts or on armbands.” FAW chief executive Jonathan Ford added: “The FAW naturally wishes to respect and honour those who fought and lost their lives fighting for their country.
“As an association we also have to respect the rules of FIFA and, following long discussions with members of the FAW Council, staff, management and players, a decision has been made not to wear the poppy against Serbia. “We felt unable to take the risk of a financial penalty or point deduction, however, as we always have done at this time of year, we will be paying our respects in the other ways.”
Along with wearing the Wales team wearing black armbands, other tributes will include a wreath being laid on the pitch and an image of a poppy being displayed on the stadium screens as a bugler plays the Last Post pre-match, while a mosaic depicting the poppy will be unveiled by Wales supporters in the Family Stand.
A new look for 2016, this is the Meghan Klingenberg jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Alyssa Naeher, Abby Wambach, Tobin Heath, Julie Johnston and Ashlyn Harris. christen press jersey Morgan Brian Northern Ireland have taken the same course of action as Wales and will sport unmarked black armbands for their own World Cup qualifier versus Azerbaijan.
England and Scotland could suffer punishments ranging from fines to points deductions from world football’s governing body after confirming they will wear black armbands embroidered with a poppy to commemorate Britain’s war dead.
FIFA regulations prohibit political symbols on kits, but Football Association chief executive Martin Glenn reiterated England will not change their stance when he addressed a Sport Industry Group event in London.
“We think they’re interpreting the rules wrongly,” he said. “This is a law-of-the-game issue, not a FIFA competition issue. Our case is absolutely rock solid.” But the Football Association of Wales (FAW) have been persuaded against taking a similarly hard line after approaching FIFA and will wear plain black armbands in a show of respect.
An FAW statement read: “FIFA have turned down a request made by the FAW for the Wales national team to wear poppies on their shirts or on armbands.” FAW chief executive Jonathan Ford added: “The FAW naturally wishes to respect and honour those who fought and lost their lives fighting for their country.
“As an association we also have to respect the rules of FIFA and, following long discussions with members of the FAW Council, staff, management and players, a decision has been made not to wear the poppy against Serbia. “We felt unable to take the risk of a financial penalty or point deduction, however, as we always have done at this time of year, we will be paying our respects in the other ways.”
Along with wearing the Wales team wearing black armbands, other tributes will include a wreath being laid on the pitch and an image of a poppy being displayed on the stadium screens as a bugler plays the Last Post pre-match, while a mosaic depicting the poppy will be unveiled by Wales supporters in the Family Stand.
A new look for 2016, this is the Meghan Klingenberg jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Alyssa Naeher, Abby Wambach, Tobin Heath, Julie Johnston and Ashlyn Harris. christen press jersey Morgan Brian Northern Ireland have taken the same course of action as Wales and will sport unmarked black armbands for their own World Cup qualifier versus Azerbaijan.
England v Scotland: Oldest rivalry the stage for Rooney´s next battle with Father Time
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ALL EYES ON ROONEY ROLE IN SPICY WEMBLEY CLASH
Given Scotland and England’s recent political history it is somewhat fitting that the latest gauge of public opinion on whether Wayne Rooney should remain at the top level or leave the international stage will take place when the two nations meet at Wembley on Friday.
Rooney is England’s all-time record goalscorer and is two strikes off attaining the same lofty status at Manchester United. These are towering achievements that do not sit easily alongside weekly questions over whether he merits a place with club or country. This debate being rung out now for many months suggests there is uncomfortable weight behind the argument that Rooney is yesterday’s man.
During Euro 2016, then England manager Roy Hodgson bemoaned criticism of his decision to rest Rooney for the 0-0 group-stage draw against Slovakia, pointing out not unreasonably that a fair chunk of his time in the build-up to the tournament was spent defending his persistent selection of the 31-year-old.
Hodgson and, of course, Sam Allardyce are now former England managers, with interim boss Gareth Southgate telling reporters on Thursday that Rooney would return to his starting line-up having missed out for the previous World Cup qualifier in Slovenia.
By this stage, the still-running line of enquiry has a familiar follow-up question, as it did for Louis van Gaal and does for Jose Mourinho at United. Where will Rooney play?
A new look for 2016, this is the Alyssa Naeher jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Abby Wambach, Julie Johnston, Lori Chalupny, Ashlyn Harris and Tobin Heath. kelley o'hara jersey Alex Morgan One of the finest forwards of his generation making an on-off transition into a midfielder has been one of the more unseemly aspects of Rooney’s malaise.
Towards the end of last season he said playing in a deeper role was the best way to prolong his time among the elite and, after a man-of-the-match showing in the FA Cup final against Crystal Palace, Hodgson deployed him in midfield for the first time in England colours against Russia in their Euro 2016 opener.
Rooney’s performances in Marseille and in the subsequent 2-1 win over Wales won praise, but, rested up to face Iceland in the last 16, he turned in a poor and often baffling display after scoring the early penalty in a 2-1 defeat.
“No more,” came Mourinho’s cry. Rooney would never play in midfield for United. That was until he did, terribly in a loss to Watford to rob him of a starting spot in the Premier League for seven weeks.
He returned against Swansea City last weekend, nominally on the left of a front three and followed up a superb long-range strike in the Europa League loss at Fenerbahce with a pair of assists.
Allardyce’s loose lips mean he leaves us with a smaller sample size, but in his one match in charge of England he almost impressively managed to confuse the issue further.
Like Mourinho, Allardyce said Rooney would not play in midfield and promptly picked him there against Slovakia. Although, he then told a post-match news conference he could not stop the skipper playing where he wanted.
On England’s next get together Rooney insisted this was not the case, maintaining he followed team instructions to the letter with barely concealed displeasure.
By this stage, Southgate had a player visibly low on form and confidence and acted accordingly after the man whose leadership qualities he warmly praised drew Wembley boos against minnows Malta.
Now the ex-England defender sees something of the old verve returning. “He’s in a better place than for the last get-together in terms of sharpness and confidence,” Southgate said.
“He is playing well. He’s a player when in a rhythm of playing, it helps him.” The all-action, dominant striker of his prime years is a player who must be consigned to memory.
But with Daniel Sturridge enduring a similarly tenuous relationship with the starting XI at Liverpool, Jamie Vardy in a goal drought and Harry Kane just back to fitness, it might be time for Rooney to dust off the old penalty box instincts and prove he and England are still better together. View image on Twitter
View image on Twitter Follow Wayne Rooney ✔ @WayneRooney It was an honour to pay our respects to our heroes today. We will remember them! 3:57 AM - 9 Nov 2016 1,657 1,657 Retweets 8,861 8,861 likes
THE NUMBERS GAME – This will be the third time that these two sides have met in an international match this century, with England winning the previous two; 3-2 in August 2013 and 3-1 in November 2014, with Wayne Rooney scoring two goals from three shots in the latter fixture.
– The last time that England and Scotland met in a competitive fixture was back in November 1999 at Wembley Stadium. Scotland prevailed 1-0 thanks to a goal from Don Hutchison, but lost the Euro 2000 play-off tie 1-2 on aggregate.
– This victory was Scotland’s only win in their last nine international matches against England (W1 D1 L7). – This will be the third time that these two sides have met in a World Cup qualifier – the previous two were both won by England (1950 and 1954).
– Five of England’s last seven international wins have come from a goal scored in the 83rd minute or later. – England are currently unbeaten in 32 international qualifiers (World Cup and Euros combined); winning 24 and drawing eight.
– The last 10 goals scored by England in qualification matches have all come from different players.
– Scotland have won just two of their last eight qualification games and these two wins have come against Gibraltar and Malta (D3 L3). TALKING POINTS
Gareth Southgate “I’m really enjoying being in the role. What happens to me is not important – we want to win this game for the country and to be top of the group.
“What happens to me is important to my family but, other than that, it’s not the purpose of this game. I want the players to go out and enjoy their football, play well. I’m sure they will.
“My focus is 100 per cent on the match and it would be irresponsible and unprofessional to be any other way. I’m enjoying working with the group of players and my focus is on winning the game. It’s as simple as that.
“I think it’s important that the team has an identity. Everybody has a slightly different way of playing, and the more we have an England way of playing, the easier that will be to adapt to.
“We had a conversation about the difference between confidence and arrogance. That’s not where we want to be, but we need to play with confidence. We need to believe in the players we’ve got and adapt to the situation.”
Gordon Strachan “We’ve not been too pleased with the last two performances. Any game we’ve played after the last two, we are desperate to catch up and make up ground. This game is a chance to catch up. It’s a chance to feel better about myself. Over the past few years I haven’t felt decent about myself. It’s getting back to that level of feeling good about yourself.
“I have got a lot of good characters about the place – don’t worry about that. As a manager you often think, who is going to let me down but not with this team. This is a great group of lads to work with. I never go to bed thinking someone is going to let me down and someone isn’t going to give me 100 per cent. My players are intelligent enough to understand the fixture. The importance of the game is understood.
“We are the lucky people, especially the ones who are playing. Supporters can throw themselves headlong into it too, but the coaches have got to step back. I’ve been here many times as a supporter, also as a player. I really enjoyed it as a player and as a supporter – maybe too much! In management, the joy comes from the glow of satisfaction if your team has performed well.
A new look for 2016, this is the Abby Wambach jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Julie Johnston, Ashlyn Harris, Megan Rapinoe, Tobin Heath and Lori Chalupny. becky sauerbrunn jersey Lauren Holiday “The atmosphere could focus us, it might spook a few people too. Our focus has been tremendous and we’re oblivious to anything else but this game of football. They’re pleased they’re the group to take on England.”
Rooney is England’s all-time record goalscorer and is two strikes off attaining the same lofty status at Manchester United. These are towering achievements that do not sit easily alongside weekly questions over whether he merits a place with club or country. This debate being rung out now for many months suggests there is uncomfortable weight behind the argument that Rooney is yesterday’s man.
During Euro 2016, then England manager Roy Hodgson bemoaned criticism of his decision to rest Rooney for the 0-0 group-stage draw against Slovakia, pointing out not unreasonably that a fair chunk of his time in the build-up to the tournament was spent defending his persistent selection of the 31-year-old.
Hodgson and, of course, Sam Allardyce are now former England managers, with interim boss Gareth Southgate telling reporters on Thursday that Rooney would return to his starting line-up having missed out for the previous World Cup qualifier in Slovenia.
By this stage, the still-running line of enquiry has a familiar follow-up question, as it did for Louis van Gaal and does for Jose Mourinho at United. Where will Rooney play?
A new look for 2016, this is the Alyssa Naeher jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Abby Wambach, Julie Johnston, Lori Chalupny, Ashlyn Harris and Tobin Heath. kelley o'hara jersey Alex Morgan One of the finest forwards of his generation making an on-off transition into a midfielder has been one of the more unseemly aspects of Rooney’s malaise.
Towards the end of last season he said playing in a deeper role was the best way to prolong his time among the elite and, after a man-of-the-match showing in the FA Cup final against Crystal Palace, Hodgson deployed him in midfield for the first time in England colours against Russia in their Euro 2016 opener.
Rooney’s performances in Marseille and in the subsequent 2-1 win over Wales won praise, but, rested up to face Iceland in the last 16, he turned in a poor and often baffling display after scoring the early penalty in a 2-1 defeat.
“No more,” came Mourinho’s cry. Rooney would never play in midfield for United. That was until he did, terribly in a loss to Watford to rob him of a starting spot in the Premier League for seven weeks.
He returned against Swansea City last weekend, nominally on the left of a front three and followed up a superb long-range strike in the Europa League loss at Fenerbahce with a pair of assists.
Allardyce’s loose lips mean he leaves us with a smaller sample size, but in his one match in charge of England he almost impressively managed to confuse the issue further.
Like Mourinho, Allardyce said Rooney would not play in midfield and promptly picked him there against Slovakia. Although, he then told a post-match news conference he could not stop the skipper playing where he wanted.
On England’s next get together Rooney insisted this was not the case, maintaining he followed team instructions to the letter with barely concealed displeasure.
By this stage, Southgate had a player visibly low on form and confidence and acted accordingly after the man whose leadership qualities he warmly praised drew Wembley boos against minnows Malta.
Now the ex-England defender sees something of the old verve returning. “He’s in a better place than for the last get-together in terms of sharpness and confidence,” Southgate said.
“He is playing well. He’s a player when in a rhythm of playing, it helps him.” The all-action, dominant striker of his prime years is a player who must be consigned to memory.
But with Daniel Sturridge enduring a similarly tenuous relationship with the starting XI at Liverpool, Jamie Vardy in a goal drought and Harry Kane just back to fitness, it might be time for Rooney to dust off the old penalty box instincts and prove he and England are still better together. View image on Twitter
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THE NUMBERS GAME – This will be the third time that these two sides have met in an international match this century, with England winning the previous two; 3-2 in August 2013 and 3-1 in November 2014, with Wayne Rooney scoring two goals from three shots in the latter fixture.
– The last time that England and Scotland met in a competitive fixture was back in November 1999 at Wembley Stadium. Scotland prevailed 1-0 thanks to a goal from Don Hutchison, but lost the Euro 2000 play-off tie 1-2 on aggregate.
– This victory was Scotland’s only win in their last nine international matches against England (W1 D1 L7). – This will be the third time that these two sides have met in a World Cup qualifier – the previous two were both won by England (1950 and 1954).
– Five of England’s last seven international wins have come from a goal scored in the 83rd minute or later. – England are currently unbeaten in 32 international qualifiers (World Cup and Euros combined); winning 24 and drawing eight.
– The last 10 goals scored by England in qualification matches have all come from different players.
– Scotland have won just two of their last eight qualification games and these two wins have come against Gibraltar and Malta (D3 L3). TALKING POINTS
Gareth Southgate “I’m really enjoying being in the role. What happens to me is not important – we want to win this game for the country and to be top of the group.
“What happens to me is important to my family but, other than that, it’s not the purpose of this game. I want the players to go out and enjoy their football, play well. I’m sure they will.
“My focus is 100 per cent on the match and it would be irresponsible and unprofessional to be any other way. I’m enjoying working with the group of players and my focus is on winning the game. It’s as simple as that.
“I think it’s important that the team has an identity. Everybody has a slightly different way of playing, and the more we have an England way of playing, the easier that will be to adapt to.
“We had a conversation about the difference between confidence and arrogance. That’s not where we want to be, but we need to play with confidence. We need to believe in the players we’ve got and adapt to the situation.”
Gordon Strachan “We’ve not been too pleased with the last two performances. Any game we’ve played after the last two, we are desperate to catch up and make up ground. This game is a chance to catch up. It’s a chance to feel better about myself. Over the past few years I haven’t felt decent about myself. It’s getting back to that level of feeling good about yourself.
“I have got a lot of good characters about the place – don’t worry about that. As a manager you often think, who is going to let me down but not with this team. This is a great group of lads to work with. I never go to bed thinking someone is going to let me down and someone isn’t going to give me 100 per cent. My players are intelligent enough to understand the fixture. The importance of the game is understood.
“We are the lucky people, especially the ones who are playing. Supporters can throw themselves headlong into it too, but the coaches have got to step back. I’ve been here many times as a supporter, also as a player. I really enjoyed it as a player and as a supporter – maybe too much! In management, the joy comes from the glow of satisfaction if your team has performed well.
A new look for 2016, this is the Abby Wambach jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Julie Johnston, Ashlyn Harris, Megan Rapinoe, Tobin Heath and Lori Chalupny. becky sauerbrunn jersey Lauren Holiday “The atmosphere could focus us, it might spook a few people too. Our focus has been tremendous and we’re oblivious to anything else but this game of football. They’re pleased they’re the group to take on England.”
Scotland inspired by Murray heroics – Fletcher
Andy Murray’s rise to the top of men’s tennis has given Scotland’s footballers extra inspiration, says captain Darren Fletcher.
Murray has won his last four tournaments on the ATP Tour to climb above Novak Djokovic and secure top spot in the rankings for the first time in his career.
Scotland’s form this year has been somewhat different with only three victories from seven matches in 2016. They face neighbouring rivals England at Wembley on Friday as they look to get their World Cup qualifying campaign back on track, and Fletcher says Murray has given them extra belief.
“For us he [Murray] is an inspiration for what he’s achieved in tennis,” Fletcher told a news conference. “His never say die attitude, to keep improving against arguably some of best tennis players of all time. To keep driving himself forward, he’s fought himself to the number one in the world.
“You can take inspiration from him as a sportsman, from his desire. He’s shown there’s no real ceiling on what you can achieve – you can achieve almost anything you wish.” Thu 10 Nov, 2016RSS Feed LAST 5 POSTS BY SOCCERNEWS
Herrera hails honest Mourinho Manchester United players best paid in world football No broken foot for Griezmann
A new look for 2016, this is the Julie Johnston jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Ashlyn Harris, Tobin Heath, Morgan Brian, Lori Chalupny and Megan Rapinoe. whitney engen jersey Ali Krieger Lukaku enjoying Martinez´s ´fun´ Belgium tactics Santos hails Quaresma impact as Portugal survive Latvia scare
Murray has won his last four tournaments on the ATP Tour to climb above Novak Djokovic and secure top spot in the rankings for the first time in his career.
Scotland’s form this year has been somewhat different with only three victories from seven matches in 2016. They face neighbouring rivals England at Wembley on Friday as they look to get their World Cup qualifying campaign back on track, and Fletcher says Murray has given them extra belief.
“For us he [Murray] is an inspiration for what he’s achieved in tennis,” Fletcher told a news conference. “His never say die attitude, to keep improving against arguably some of best tennis players of all time. To keep driving himself forward, he’s fought himself to the number one in the world.
“You can take inspiration from him as a sportsman, from his desire. He’s shown there’s no real ceiling on what you can achieve – you can achieve almost anything you wish.” Thu 10 Nov, 2016RSS Feed LAST 5 POSTS BY SOCCERNEWS
Herrera hails honest Mourinho Manchester United players best paid in world football No broken foot for Griezmann
A new look for 2016, this is the Julie Johnston jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Ashlyn Harris, Tobin Heath, Morgan Brian, Lori Chalupny and Megan Rapinoe. whitney engen jersey Ali Krieger Lukaku enjoying Martinez´s ´fun´ Belgium tactics Santos hails Quaresma impact as Portugal survive Latvia scare
Strachan positive despite growing pressure
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Scotland coach Gordon Strachan hopes a morale-boosting victory over England at Wembley can help ease the pressure beginning to build on his shoulders.
One victory in their last five matches has seen speculation grow over Strachan’s future with the national team, and a defeat to the ‘Auld Enemy’ could only weaken his position.
The former Celtic boss remains calm despite the added pressure and is confident his squad have what it takes to revive their World Cup qualifying campaign at Wembley. “We’ve not been too pleased with the last two performances,” he told a media conference.
“Any game we’ve played after the last two, we are desperate to catch up and make up ground. “This game is a chance to catch up. It’s a chance to feel better about myself. Over the past few years I haven’t felt decent about myself. It’s getting back to that level of feeling good about yourself.”
He added: “I have got a lot of good characters about the place – don’t worry about that. “As a manager you often think, ‘who is going to let me down?’, but not with this team. This is a great group of lads to work with. I never go to bed thinking someone is going to let me down and someone isn’t going to give me 100 per cent.
“My players are intelligent enough to understand the fixture. The importance of the game is understood.” Meanwhile, Scotland captain Darren Fletcher has looked to ease pressure by insisting the clash with Gareth Southgate’s side is not must-win despite the Scots sitting fourth in Group F.
“It’s a massive game in terms of our impact on the group,” said the West Brom midfielder. “We’re still involved, it is still quite tight. It’s not a must-win.
“The group is still all to play for and a point would be a decent result for us, especially with games to come at home.
A new look for 2016, this is the Ashlyn Harris jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Tobin Heath, Lori Chalupny, Alex Morgan, Megan Rapinoe and Morgan Brian. crystal dunn jersey Carli Lloyd “We’ve come with a game plan to try and win and if we can get a result we’re still involved with big games coming up in 2017.”
One victory in their last five matches has seen speculation grow over Strachan’s future with the national team, and a defeat to the ‘Auld Enemy’ could only weaken his position.
The former Celtic boss remains calm despite the added pressure and is confident his squad have what it takes to revive their World Cup qualifying campaign at Wembley. “We’ve not been too pleased with the last two performances,” he told a media conference.
“Any game we’ve played after the last two, we are desperate to catch up and make up ground. “This game is a chance to catch up. It’s a chance to feel better about myself. Over the past few years I haven’t felt decent about myself. It’s getting back to that level of feeling good about yourself.”
He added: “I have got a lot of good characters about the place – don’t worry about that. “As a manager you often think, ‘who is going to let me down?’, but not with this team. This is a great group of lads to work with. I never go to bed thinking someone is going to let me down and someone isn’t going to give me 100 per cent.
“My players are intelligent enough to understand the fixture. The importance of the game is understood.” Meanwhile, Scotland captain Darren Fletcher has looked to ease pressure by insisting the clash with Gareth Southgate’s side is not must-win despite the Scots sitting fourth in Group F.
“It’s a massive game in terms of our impact on the group,” said the West Brom midfielder. “We’re still involved, it is still quite tight. It’s not a must-win.
“The group is still all to play for and a point would be a decent result for us, especially with games to come at home.
A new look for 2016, this is the Ashlyn Harris jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Tobin Heath, Lori Chalupny, Alex Morgan, Megan Rapinoe and Morgan Brian. crystal dunn jersey Carli Lloyd “We’ve come with a game plan to try and win and if we can get a result we’re still involved with big games coming up in 2017.”
Ronaldo: There will never be another Cristiano
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Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo believes there will never be another player like him, even if he feels there are plenty of promising youngsters around in the game.
The 31-year-old is widely regarded as one of the best players in the world and he thinks it is very much unlikely there will ever be a player with exactly the same characteristics. “No one can be the next Cristiano Ronaldo,” Ronaldo told Marca.
“There are no doubles in football. The next will be what he has to be, but never the same. That does not happen. “I see many young talents in Europe like Renato Sanches, Andres Gomes, or Joao Mario. There are many to choose from. I have only mentioned the Portuguese, but there are many in Europe who have the capacity to go far.
“I am very happy because these great talents assure that football will always be strong.” Ronaldo is regarded as the favourite to scoop the Ballon d’Or after an impressive 2016, but he is adamant he is not obsessed with winning the prestigious individual award.
“The votes do not depend on me so I cannot be obsessed about whether I am going to win or whether I deserve to win,” he added. “If you ask me if I want to win, of course I do. I will not lie, but it is not up to me.
A new look for 2016, this is the Tobin Heath jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Lori Chalupny, Megan Rapinoe, Lauren Holiday, Morgan Brian and Alex Morgan. ali krieger jersey Heather O'Reilly “I do not obsess over it. Things come naturally. I am calm because what I did last season was incredible and I am very comfortable with my performances. I did everything last season; the Champions League, Euro 2016. It was my best year, so I am happy.”
The 31-year-old is widely regarded as one of the best players in the world and he thinks it is very much unlikely there will ever be a player with exactly the same characteristics. “No one can be the next Cristiano Ronaldo,” Ronaldo told Marca.
“There are no doubles in football. The next will be what he has to be, but never the same. That does not happen. “I see many young talents in Europe like Renato Sanches, Andres Gomes, or Joao Mario. There are many to choose from. I have only mentioned the Portuguese, but there are many in Europe who have the capacity to go far.
“I am very happy because these great talents assure that football will always be strong.” Ronaldo is regarded as the favourite to scoop the Ballon d’Or after an impressive 2016, but he is adamant he is not obsessed with winning the prestigious individual award.
“The votes do not depend on me so I cannot be obsessed about whether I am going to win or whether I deserve to win,” he added. “If you ask me if I want to win, of course I do. I will not lie, but it is not up to me.
A new look for 2016, this is the Tobin Heath jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Lori Chalupny, Megan Rapinoe, Lauren Holiday, Morgan Brian and Alex Morgan. ali krieger jersey Heather O'Reilly “I do not obsess over it. Things come naturally. I am calm because what I did last season was incredible and I am very comfortable with my performances. I did everything last season; the Champions League, Euro 2016. It was my best year, so I am happy.”
Madrid form not a concern for Nacho
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Nacho Fernandez is unconcerned that Real Madrid are not firing on all cylinders this season, given they sit top of LaLiga and on the verge of the Champions League knockout stages.
Despite remaining unbeaten for 28 games in all competitions under Zinedine Zidane, Madrid have come in for some criticism over the quality of their performances – particularly in defence.
A 3-3 draw with Legia Warsaw raised fresh concerns given the Spanish giants held a 2-0 lead after 25 minutes and ended up needing a Mateo Kovacic strike five minutes from time to earn a point.
Madrid’s form does not bother Nacho, though, given they continue to collect positive results. “It’s true we’ve had poor games but the results speak for themselves,” Nacho told Marca. “We are first [in the league] and in control in the Champions League.
“We cannot allow bumpy games like that [against Legia], but football does these things. “We need to know how to kill those games, it’s not easy when you’re undefeated for so long and the derby [with Atletico] arrives next, after the international break.
“We are the league leaders, calm and ready to work for the good moments.” The 26-year-old is enjoying a rare run in the team with Pepe and Sergio Ramos injured on the sidelines and is determined to hold onto his starting spot.
“I live for the club, it’s where I am happy, and what makes me feel good is fighting for my place like I’ve always done,” he added. “I have said for years that it’s not easy to compete with them [Pepe, Ramos and Raphael Varane], especially when you come from the academy.
A new look for 2016, this is the Lori Chalupny jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Megan Rapinoe, Morgan Brian, Ali Krieger, Alex Morgan and Lauren Holiday. ashlyn harris jersey Amy Rodriguez “But, being next to them has made me a better player, I’ve learned a lot and become stronger mentally knowing that I compete with the best. “The experience you collect is brutal and the competition is very high, the step I have to make is very large.”
Despite remaining unbeaten for 28 games in all competitions under Zinedine Zidane, Madrid have come in for some criticism over the quality of their performances – particularly in defence.
A 3-3 draw with Legia Warsaw raised fresh concerns given the Spanish giants held a 2-0 lead after 25 minutes and ended up needing a Mateo Kovacic strike five minutes from time to earn a point.
Madrid’s form does not bother Nacho, though, given they continue to collect positive results. “It’s true we’ve had poor games but the results speak for themselves,” Nacho told Marca. “We are first [in the league] and in control in the Champions League.
“We cannot allow bumpy games like that [against Legia], but football does these things. “We need to know how to kill those games, it’s not easy when you’re undefeated for so long and the derby [with Atletico] arrives next, after the international break.
“We are the league leaders, calm and ready to work for the good moments.” The 26-year-old is enjoying a rare run in the team with Pepe and Sergio Ramos injured on the sidelines and is determined to hold onto his starting spot.
“I live for the club, it’s where I am happy, and what makes me feel good is fighting for my place like I’ve always done,” he added. “I have said for years that it’s not easy to compete with them [Pepe, Ramos and Raphael Varane], especially when you come from the academy.
A new look for 2016, this is the Lori Chalupny jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Megan Rapinoe, Morgan Brian, Ali Krieger, Alex Morgan and Lauren Holiday. ashlyn harris jersey Amy Rodriguez “But, being next to them has made me a better player, I’ve learned a lot and become stronger mentally knowing that I compete with the best. “The experience you collect is brutal and the competition is very high, the step I have to make is very large.”
Deschamps: Sweden are less competitve without Ibrahimovic
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Sweden pose less of a threat to France in World Cup qualifying following the retirement of Zlatan Ibrahimovic, according to Didier Deschamps.
Ibrahimovic brought the curtain down on his international career after Euro 2016 when Sweden were eliminated with just one point from their three group matches.
While the 35-year-old turned his attention to club football with Manchester United, Sweden have started life without him by taking seven points from three games in Group A.
They sit tied with France at the top of the table ahead of their meeting in Paris on Friday, but Deschamps is confident France can handle Sweden, with each of their five goals having been scored by different players so far.
“Sweden are different,” he told a news conference. “We know the importance he has in all the teams he plays for, including Sweden where he was very effective. He changes their game. “When you have a player like Zlatan, the team plays for him. At times, he receives balls that he should not receive. Even if they have a good collective, they always rely on him.
“There are other players, other attackers who are there, they have quality. But on paper, in fact, I think Sweden with Zlatan are more competitive.” Thu 10 Nov, 2016RSS Feed LAST 5 POSTS BY SOCCERNEWS
Herrera hails honest Mourinho Manchester United players best paid in world football No broken foot for Griezmann Lukaku enjoying Martinez´s ´fun´ Belgium tactics
a new look for 2016, this is the becky sauerbrunn jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. bobby wood, hope solo, caleb stanko, sydney leroux and christie rampone. alyssa naeher jersey meghan klingenberg. Santos hails Quaresma impact as Portugal survive Latvia scare
Ibrahimovic brought the curtain down on his international career after Euro 2016 when Sweden were eliminated with just one point from their three group matches.
While the 35-year-old turned his attention to club football with Manchester United, Sweden have started life without him by taking seven points from three games in Group A.
They sit tied with France at the top of the table ahead of their meeting in Paris on Friday, but Deschamps is confident France can handle Sweden, with each of their five goals having been scored by different players so far.
“Sweden are different,” he told a news conference. “We know the importance he has in all the teams he plays for, including Sweden where he was very effective. He changes their game. “When you have a player like Zlatan, the team plays for him. At times, he receives balls that he should not receive. Even if they have a good collective, they always rely on him.
“There are other players, other attackers who are there, they have quality. But on paper, in fact, I think Sweden with Zlatan are more competitive.” Thu 10 Nov, 2016RSS Feed LAST 5 POSTS BY SOCCERNEWS
Herrera hails honest Mourinho Manchester United players best paid in world football No broken foot for Griezmann Lukaku enjoying Martinez´s ´fun´ Belgium tactics
a new look for 2016, this is the becky sauerbrunn jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. bobby wood, hope solo, caleb stanko, sydney leroux and christie rampone. alyssa naeher jersey meghan klingenberg. Santos hails Quaresma impact as Portugal survive Latvia scare
Tebas refuses to apologise to Barcelona
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LFP president Javier Tebas has no intention of apologising to Barcelona over his recent comments concerning their players’ behaviour in the 3-2 win over Valencia.
Barca’s win at the Mestalla back in October was marred by an incident in the wake of Lionel Messi’s stoppage-time winner where a number of players were hit by a plastic bottle thrown from the stands.
Tebas subsequently accused the Barcelona players of provoking the Valencia fans with their celebrations, adding that they overreacted after getting hit.
The LFP chief’s comments angered Barcelona, who in turn formally requested that the Administrative Court of Sport (TAD) open disciplinary proceedings against Tebas, while boycotting Premios Marca awards after finding out the 54-year was due to receive a fair-play gong.
“I am very sorry for what has been happening to me,” Tebas was quoted as saying by AS. “The moral hurts me, it does not feel comfortable. But I am not going to stop doing my job. “I am not able to apologise because I am not a hypocrite.
“This situation bothers me immensely and it hurts me because my will these past three years and a half has been to fight against violence in Spanish football.” Sherman fined $9000 for hit on Carpenter – reports
Share Richard Sherman’s low hit on Buffalo Bills kicker Dan Carpenter did not cost the Seattle Seahawks 15 yards on Monday night, but it will cost Sherman some cash.
According to reports in the States, the NFL fined Sherman roughly $9,000 for the hit in question.
Carpenter received medical attention after Sherman made contact with him on a kick Monday night during the Seahawks’ 31-25 win but was back on his feet almost immediately. His missed field-goal attempt two plays later may have altered the outcome of the game.
Sherman was flagged for offsides on the play, but defended his hit on Carpenter and said he was simply playing to the whistle and going for the ball. View image on Twitter
View image on Twitter Follow Richard Sherman ✔ @RSherman_25 🤔🤔 2:49 AM - 9 Nov 2016 a new look for 2016, this is the christie rampone jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. caleb stanko, bobby wood, rubio rubin, hope solo and sydney leroux. allie long jersey alyssa naeher. 16,065 16,065 Retweets 26,844 26,844 likes
Barca’s win at the Mestalla back in October was marred by an incident in the wake of Lionel Messi’s stoppage-time winner where a number of players were hit by a plastic bottle thrown from the stands.
Tebas subsequently accused the Barcelona players of provoking the Valencia fans with their celebrations, adding that they overreacted after getting hit.
The LFP chief’s comments angered Barcelona, who in turn formally requested that the Administrative Court of Sport (TAD) open disciplinary proceedings against Tebas, while boycotting Premios Marca awards after finding out the 54-year was due to receive a fair-play gong.
“I am very sorry for what has been happening to me,” Tebas was quoted as saying by AS. “The moral hurts me, it does not feel comfortable. But I am not going to stop doing my job. “I am not able to apologise because I am not a hypocrite.
“This situation bothers me immensely and it hurts me because my will these past three years and a half has been to fight against violence in Spanish football.” Sherman fined $9000 for hit on Carpenter – reports
Share Richard Sherman’s low hit on Buffalo Bills kicker Dan Carpenter did not cost the Seattle Seahawks 15 yards on Monday night, but it will cost Sherman some cash.
According to reports in the States, the NFL fined Sherman roughly $9,000 for the hit in question.
Carpenter received medical attention after Sherman made contact with him on a kick Monday night during the Seahawks’ 31-25 win but was back on his feet almost immediately. His missed field-goal attempt two plays later may have altered the outcome of the game.
Sherman was flagged for offsides on the play, but defended his hit on Carpenter and said he was simply playing to the whistle and going for the ball. View image on Twitter
View image on Twitter Follow Richard Sherman ✔ @RSherman_25 🤔🤔 2:49 AM - 9 Nov 2016 a new look for 2016, this is the christie rampone jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. caleb stanko, bobby wood, rubio rubin, hope solo and sydney leroux. allie long jersey alyssa naeher. 16,065 16,065 Retweets 26,844 26,844 likes
Did Tottenham take a needless risk in signing Moussa Sissoko?
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New Tottenham midfielder Moussa Sissoko has a difficult task of cementing a starting place given the competition.
Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Moussa Sissoko admitted he’s struggled to find his best form upon his £30M summer move from Newcastle. The French international has attributed such toils for consistency with his late arrival to White Hart Lane, the pricey transfer, a lack of pre-season and an injury picked up in his second league start for Spurs.
However, Newcastle supporters have long been critical of Sissoko long before his London switch. Have the Lilywhites taken a needless and expensive risk? Contrasting playing style to Tottenham’s philosophy
Tottenham’s identity is well-known under manager Mauricio Pochettino. The Londoners are one of the fittest sides in the Premier League, capable of pressing high up the pitch and playing an expansive and attractive style of football to create chances. However, Sissoko sticks out like a sore thumb given his skill set.
Mousa Dembele had a similar problem when Pochettino made the switch from Southampton, but he adapted to stay in the team, losing weight and building up his fitness, and now he’s regarded as one of the best central midfielders in the league. Sissoko should be taking inspiration from the Belgian if he’s to last at White Hart Lane as the Frenchman has showcased too much of a willing to run with the ball and give away fouls.
Sissoko’s move was questioned from the off as a result of his poor work rate and inconsistency at Newcastle, but clearly Pochettino finds something in him to work on to make him a key player in the future. However, as things stand, Sissoko is almost twice as likely to make a foul than clean tackle or interception, and has a poorer pass completion than all four of his central midfield compatriots – Eric Dier, Dele Alli, Victor Wanyama and Mousa Dembele.
a new look for 2016, this is the sydney leroux jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. rubio rubin, caleb stanko, christian pulisic, bobby wood and hope solo. ali krieger jersey abby wambach. New Tottenham midfielder Moussa Sissoko has a difficult task of cementing a starting place given the competition. Inclusion leads to lack of creativity
Moussa Sissoko has primarily operated on the right flank for Tottenham Hotspur this season, the same position Erik Lamela would usually feature in. The latter has shown much more creative craft and goal threat than Sissoko and has the ability to pick defences. The former Newcastle man, however, relies on his physical attributes to get forward and affect the game in the final third, so it’s hardly surprising he’s not scored or created a goal for Tottenham or France at the Euros.
Tottenham have needed players to get between the lines and drag players out of positions to exploit the space and create chances. But Sissoko likes to run with the ball, rather than without, which has led to attacks being predictable down his side. It’s something manager Mauricio Pochettino needs to think about as it’s clear the creative flair isn’t coming from Sissoko.
He’s long been a player for the physical side of the game, providing a driving force in midfield rather than possession any playmaking traits. Tottenham Hotspur are 8/13 to miss out on a top-four finish in the Premier League this season with how they’ve started the campaign. Sissoko’s form has mirrored the club’s indifferent start, but can the midfielder find his feet?
Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Moussa Sissoko admitted he’s struggled to find his best form upon his £30M summer move from Newcastle. The French international has attributed such toils for consistency with his late arrival to White Hart Lane, the pricey transfer, a lack of pre-season and an injury picked up in his second league start for Spurs.
However, Newcastle supporters have long been critical of Sissoko long before his London switch. Have the Lilywhites taken a needless and expensive risk? Contrasting playing style to Tottenham’s philosophy
Tottenham’s identity is well-known under manager Mauricio Pochettino. The Londoners are one of the fittest sides in the Premier League, capable of pressing high up the pitch and playing an expansive and attractive style of football to create chances. However, Sissoko sticks out like a sore thumb given his skill set.
Mousa Dembele had a similar problem when Pochettino made the switch from Southampton, but he adapted to stay in the team, losing weight and building up his fitness, and now he’s regarded as one of the best central midfielders in the league. Sissoko should be taking inspiration from the Belgian if he’s to last at White Hart Lane as the Frenchman has showcased too much of a willing to run with the ball and give away fouls.
Sissoko’s move was questioned from the off as a result of his poor work rate and inconsistency at Newcastle, but clearly Pochettino finds something in him to work on to make him a key player in the future. However, as things stand, Sissoko is almost twice as likely to make a foul than clean tackle or interception, and has a poorer pass completion than all four of his central midfield compatriots – Eric Dier, Dele Alli, Victor Wanyama and Mousa Dembele.
a new look for 2016, this is the sydney leroux jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. rubio rubin, caleb stanko, christian pulisic, bobby wood and hope solo. ali krieger jersey abby wambach. New Tottenham midfielder Moussa Sissoko has a difficult task of cementing a starting place given the competition. Inclusion leads to lack of creativity
Moussa Sissoko has primarily operated on the right flank for Tottenham Hotspur this season, the same position Erik Lamela would usually feature in. The latter has shown much more creative craft and goal threat than Sissoko and has the ability to pick defences. The former Newcastle man, however, relies on his physical attributes to get forward and affect the game in the final third, so it’s hardly surprising he’s not scored or created a goal for Tottenham or France at the Euros.
Tottenham have needed players to get between the lines and drag players out of positions to exploit the space and create chances. But Sissoko likes to run with the ball, rather than without, which has led to attacks being predictable down his side. It’s something manager Mauricio Pochettino needs to think about as it’s clear the creative flair isn’t coming from Sissoko.
He’s long been a player for the physical side of the game, providing a driving force in midfield rather than possession any playmaking traits. Tottenham Hotspur are 8/13 to miss out on a top-four finish in the Premier League this season with how they’ve started the campaign. Sissoko’s form has mirrored the club’s indifferent start, but can the midfielder find his feet?
Barcelona without Umtiti for three weeks
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Barcelona will have to make do without the services of Samuel Umtiti for the next three weeks due to a hamstring problem.
The centre-back suffered the muscular issue while away on international duty with France this week and was forced to pull out of the squad for Friday’s World Cup qualifier against Sweden. Umtiti returned to Barcelona to undergo a series of tests to determine the extent of the injury and the reigning Spanish champions have now announced he faces a three-week spell on the sidelines.
“First-team player Samuel Umtiti has suffered a ruptured muscle in the femoral biceps of his left leg,” a statement on the club’s official website reads. “The player underwent medical tests on Thursday which confirmed the injury.
“Umtiti is expected to be out of action for three weeks.” The hamstring problem will see Umtiti miss the games against Malaga, Celtic, Real Sociedad and Hercules, while he becomes a doubt for the match versus Real Madrid on December 3.
The 22-year-old joined Barcelona from Lyon during the close-season and has made 10 appearances in all competitions for the Catalans since.
Barca are being plagued by injuries in defence, with Gerard Pique, Jeremy Mathieu and Jordi Alba all missing their 2-1 win over Sevilla at the weekend. Thu 10 Nov, 2016RSS Feed LAST 5 POSTS BY SOCCERNEWS Herrera hails honest Mourinho Manchester United players best paid in world football No broken foot for Griezmann
Lukaku enjoying Martinez´s ´fun´ Belgium tactics A new look for 2016, this is the Hope Solo jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Christian Pulisic, Rubio Rubin, Darlington Nagbe, Caleb Stanko and Bobby Wood. Alejandro Bedoya Jersey Julie Johnston. Santos hails Quaresma impact as Portugal survive Latvia scare
The centre-back suffered the muscular issue while away on international duty with France this week and was forced to pull out of the squad for Friday’s World Cup qualifier against Sweden. Umtiti returned to Barcelona to undergo a series of tests to determine the extent of the injury and the reigning Spanish champions have now announced he faces a three-week spell on the sidelines.
“First-team player Samuel Umtiti has suffered a ruptured muscle in the femoral biceps of his left leg,” a statement on the club’s official website reads. “The player underwent medical tests on Thursday which confirmed the injury.
“Umtiti is expected to be out of action for three weeks.” The hamstring problem will see Umtiti miss the games against Malaga, Celtic, Real Sociedad and Hercules, while he becomes a doubt for the match versus Real Madrid on December 3.
The 22-year-old joined Barcelona from Lyon during the close-season and has made 10 appearances in all competitions for the Catalans since.
Barca are being plagued by injuries in defence, with Gerard Pique, Jeremy Mathieu and Jordi Alba all missing their 2-1 win over Sevilla at the weekend. Thu 10 Nov, 2016RSS Feed LAST 5 POSTS BY SOCCERNEWS Herrera hails honest Mourinho Manchester United players best paid in world football No broken foot for Griezmann
Lukaku enjoying Martinez´s ´fun´ Belgium tactics A new look for 2016, this is the Hope Solo jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Christian Pulisic, Rubio Rubin, Darlington Nagbe, Caleb Stanko and Bobby Wood. Alejandro Bedoya Jersey Julie Johnston. Santos hails Quaresma impact as Portugal survive Latvia scare
Qatar on top of World Cup concerns, insists Samoura
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FIFA secretary general Fatma Samoura is confident Qatar have concerns over their suitability to deliver the 2022 World Cup firmly under control.
The build-up to the tournament was placed under further scrutiny last month when organisers confirmed that one person had died in a “work-related fatality” at the construction site of the new stadium in Al Wakrah.
Uneasiness surrounds the decision to award Qatar the rights to host the finals, with human rights campaigners voicing fears over the welfare of workers, while allegations of corruption relating to the voting process have blighted the tournament’s reputation.
But Samoura, who led a FIFA delegation to Qatar this week, says the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy (SCDL) are on track to deliver “the best World Cup ever”.
“We’ve seen that the Qataris are on top of the issues,” she told the Committee’s official website. “Construction is going well, with a special focus on the safety and security of all the workers. “We have also witnessed the compact nature of this World Cup, which will allow fans to attend more than one match in one day. This gives another perspective to the way a World Cup is organised compared to Russia or South Africa or even Brazil.
“I think the level of commitment of the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy, and the level of enthusiasm I have been witnessing since my arrival from the Local Organising Committee, just tells us that the choice of Qatar to host this World Cup was a good one, and it will be a well-attended World Cup
“I can see that planning is done ahead of time, which is a strong sign of the commitment of the Qatari people to deliver the best World Cup ever.
A new look for 2016, this is the Megan Rapinoe jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Morgan Brian, Alex Morgan, Carli Lloyd, Lauren Holiday and Ali Krieger. meghan klingenberg jersey Shannon Boxx “This only means that the world of football is opening to diversity and is really embracing the globalised nature of football. We should be giving more opportunities to regions like the Middle East to demonstrate that they can also be nations of football, and also show the rest of the world that football is bringing people from different cultures and religious backgrounds together.”
The build-up to the tournament was placed under further scrutiny last month when organisers confirmed that one person had died in a “work-related fatality” at the construction site of the new stadium in Al Wakrah.
Uneasiness surrounds the decision to award Qatar the rights to host the finals, with human rights campaigners voicing fears over the welfare of workers, while allegations of corruption relating to the voting process have blighted the tournament’s reputation.
But Samoura, who led a FIFA delegation to Qatar this week, says the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy (SCDL) are on track to deliver “the best World Cup ever”.
“We’ve seen that the Qataris are on top of the issues,” she told the Committee’s official website. “Construction is going well, with a special focus on the safety and security of all the workers. “We have also witnessed the compact nature of this World Cup, which will allow fans to attend more than one match in one day. This gives another perspective to the way a World Cup is organised compared to Russia or South Africa or even Brazil.
“I think the level of commitment of the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy, and the level of enthusiasm I have been witnessing since my arrival from the Local Organising Committee, just tells us that the choice of Qatar to host this World Cup was a good one, and it will be a well-attended World Cup
“I can see that planning is done ahead of time, which is a strong sign of the commitment of the Qatari people to deliver the best World Cup ever.
A new look for 2016, this is the Megan Rapinoe jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Morgan Brian, Alex Morgan, Carli Lloyd, Lauren Holiday and Ali Krieger. meghan klingenberg jersey Shannon Boxx “This only means that the world of football is opening to diversity and is really embracing the globalised nature of football. We should be giving more opportunities to regions like the Middle East to demonstrate that they can also be nations of football, and also show the rest of the world that football is bringing people from different cultures and religious backgrounds together.”
Tuesday, November 1, 2016
Kante is a complete midfielder, but I had never heard of him! – Conte
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Antonio Conte has never doubted N’Golo Kante’s quality, but admits he had never heard of him prior to his move to Leicester City.
The 25-year-old joined Leicester from Caen in a £5.6million move in August 2015 and then played a huge role in the Foxes’ staggering Premier League title success.
Kante’s form earned him international recognition for France, with whom he played at Euro 2016 prior to sealing a £32m move to Chelsea in July, with Conte feeling he is “a complete midfielder”.
While Conte did not know who Kante was just over a year ago, the former Italy boss is delighted to be able to call upon him now. Asked whether he was aware of Kante prior to his Leicester arrival, Conte said: “No. Before [Leicester], no – I must be honest. But I do now.
“I remember before the game against Leicester that many people thought that N’Golo is another player compared to last year, when he played with Leicester.
“Instead I said N’Golo is playing very well with us and we are very pleased to have this player with us. For sure he is a very good player. “I think he is a complete midfielder, not only a defensive midfielder.
“You can see in the last three league games that N’Golo could have scored three goals. Against Hull after Diego Costa had hit the post, against Leicester when there was a deflection, and then he scored against Manchester United.
“He is a player that always arrives in the box, it’s fantastic. He has fantastic stamina – also good technique, good positioning, a good personality.
A new look for 2016, this is the Allie Long jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Ashley Sanchez, Christine Nairn, Kristie Mewis, Danielle Colaprico and Lauren Barnes. crystal dunn jersey away “He can play box-to-box, but I prefer to respect the position. I like when N’Golo goes to press, and with this [3-4-3] system I ask [the players] a lot to press, to go forward. I think N’Golo is very good at this.”
The 25-year-old joined Leicester from Caen in a £5.6million move in August 2015 and then played a huge role in the Foxes’ staggering Premier League title success.
Kante’s form earned him international recognition for France, with whom he played at Euro 2016 prior to sealing a £32m move to Chelsea in July, with Conte feeling he is “a complete midfielder”.
While Conte did not know who Kante was just over a year ago, the former Italy boss is delighted to be able to call upon him now. Asked whether he was aware of Kante prior to his Leicester arrival, Conte said: “No. Before [Leicester], no – I must be honest. But I do now.
“I remember before the game against Leicester that many people thought that N’Golo is another player compared to last year, when he played with Leicester.
“Instead I said N’Golo is playing very well with us and we are very pleased to have this player with us. For sure he is a very good player. “I think he is a complete midfielder, not only a defensive midfielder.
“You can see in the last three league games that N’Golo could have scored three goals. Against Hull after Diego Costa had hit the post, against Leicester when there was a deflection, and then he scored against Manchester United.
“He is a player that always arrives in the box, it’s fantastic. He has fantastic stamina – also good technique, good positioning, a good personality.
A new look for 2016, this is the Allie Long jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Ashley Sanchez, Christine Nairn, Kristie Mewis, Danielle Colaprico and Lauren Barnes. crystal dunn jersey away “He can play box-to-box, but I prefer to respect the position. I like when N’Golo goes to press, and with this [3-4-3] system I ask [the players] a lot to press, to go forward. I think N’Golo is very good at this.”
Bale signs new six-year Real Madrid contract
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Gareth Bale has signed a new contract with Real Madrid that will tie him to the club until June 2022.
The European champions confirmed the deal – which if completed will see the 27-year-old’s stay at the Santiago Bernabeu reach nine years – on Sunday.
“Real Madrid and Gareth Bale have agreed an extension to the player’s contract, keeping him at the club until the 30th of June 2022,” read the club’s statement.
“Gareth Bale will appear at a press conference in the media room at the Santiago Bernabeu on Monday at 1:30pm.” Bale signed from Tottenham in what was then a world-record €100million deal in 2013 and won the Champions League in two of his first three years with Madrid.
The Wales international has also tasted success in the Copa del Rey, Club World Cup and UEFA Super Cup, although is still waiting for his first LaLiga crown.
Bale, who played in Madrid’s 4-1 win away to Alaves on Saturday, has made 135 Madrid appearances in all competitions and scored 63 goals.
He was this week named among the 30 nominees for the Ballon d’Or. Sun 30 Oct, 2016RSS Feed LAST 5 POSTS BY SOCCERNEWS
Pochettino wants Tottenham to create Wembley fortress Mourinho charged with misconduct
Kane in contention for north London derby
A new look for 2016, this is the Ashley Sanchez jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Christine Nairn, Danielle Colaprico, Rose Lavelle, Lauren Barnes and Kristie Mewis. ali krieger jersey away Messi should not captain Argentina – Passarella
The European champions confirmed the deal – which if completed will see the 27-year-old’s stay at the Santiago Bernabeu reach nine years – on Sunday.
“Real Madrid and Gareth Bale have agreed an extension to the player’s contract, keeping him at the club until the 30th of June 2022,” read the club’s statement.
“Gareth Bale will appear at a press conference in the media room at the Santiago Bernabeu on Monday at 1:30pm.” Bale signed from Tottenham in what was then a world-record €100million deal in 2013 and won the Champions League in two of his first three years with Madrid.
The Wales international has also tasted success in the Copa del Rey, Club World Cup and UEFA Super Cup, although is still waiting for his first LaLiga crown.
Bale, who played in Madrid’s 4-1 win away to Alaves on Saturday, has made 135 Madrid appearances in all competitions and scored 63 goals.
He was this week named among the 30 nominees for the Ballon d’Or. Sun 30 Oct, 2016RSS Feed LAST 5 POSTS BY SOCCERNEWS
Pochettino wants Tottenham to create Wembley fortress Mourinho charged with misconduct
Kane in contention for north London derby
A new look for 2016, this is the Ashley Sanchez jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Christine Nairn, Danielle Colaprico, Rose Lavelle, Lauren Barnes and Kristie Mewis. ali krieger jersey away Messi should not captain Argentina – Passarella
Southampton and Chelsea 12/5 to draw this afternoon’s Premier League clash
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Competition: Premier League
Market: Southampton and Chelsea to draw
Odds: 12/5 @ Bet 365
Southampton welcome Chelsea to St Mary’s in the Premier League this afternoon, in a game that could be a tight affair given the strength of the Saints on home soil.
Chelsea are narrow favourites to come out on top but their away form has been inconsistent which suggests a stalemate might be on the cards.
Hosts Southampton are in good form under new manager Claude Puel after recovering from a slow start, sitting ninth in the Premier League table with 13 points from nine games. Three wins and two draws from their last five outings sees the Saints in good shape to inflict damage on Chelsea, who themselves have struggled away from home.
Chelsea find themselves fifth in the Premier League with 19 points, boasting three wins on the bounce. Antonio Conte’s men have overcome their own stick patch, but away from home sees them averaging just over a point per game. Having failed to win two of their last three on the road, Southampton have a chance of getting a result.
Bet 365 are giving odds of 12/5 for Southampton and Chelsea to play up a stalemate at St Mary’s this afternoon. Bet: Southampton and Chelsea to draw this afternoon’s Premier League clash @ 12/5 with Bet 365 >>
Sun 30 Oct, 2016RSS Feed READ MORE "BETTING TIPS AND NEWS" Stoke City 21/20 to win against Swansea City in tonight’s Premier League clash October 31st, 2016
Valencia 7/5 to win against Deportivo La Coruna in tonight’s Spanish La Liga clash October 31st, 2016
A new look for 2016, this is the Christine Nairn jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Danielle Colaprico, Lauren Barnes, Rachel Van Hollebeke, Kristie Mewis and Rose Lavelle. carli lloyd jersey away Everton 17/20 to win against West Ham United in this afternoon’s Premier League clash October 30th, 2016
Southampton welcome Chelsea to St Mary’s in the Premier League this afternoon, in a game that could be a tight affair given the strength of the Saints on home soil.
Chelsea are narrow favourites to come out on top but their away form has been inconsistent which suggests a stalemate might be on the cards.
Hosts Southampton are in good form under new manager Claude Puel after recovering from a slow start, sitting ninth in the Premier League table with 13 points from nine games. Three wins and two draws from their last five outings sees the Saints in good shape to inflict damage on Chelsea, who themselves have struggled away from home.
Chelsea find themselves fifth in the Premier League with 19 points, boasting three wins on the bounce. Antonio Conte’s men have overcome their own stick patch, but away from home sees them averaging just over a point per game. Having failed to win two of their last three on the road, Southampton have a chance of getting a result.
Bet 365 are giving odds of 12/5 for Southampton and Chelsea to play up a stalemate at St Mary’s this afternoon. Bet: Southampton and Chelsea to draw this afternoon’s Premier League clash @ 12/5 with Bet 365 >>
Sun 30 Oct, 2016RSS Feed READ MORE "BETTING TIPS AND NEWS" Stoke City 21/20 to win against Swansea City in tonight’s Premier League clash October 31st, 2016
Valencia 7/5 to win against Deportivo La Coruna in tonight’s Spanish La Liga clash October 31st, 2016
A new look for 2016, this is the Christine Nairn jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Danielle Colaprico, Lauren Barnes, Rachel Van Hollebeke, Kristie Mewis and Rose Lavelle. carli lloyd jersey away Everton 17/20 to win against West Ham United in this afternoon’s Premier League clash October 30th, 2016
Everton 17/20 to win against West Ham United in this afternoon’s Premier League clash
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Competition: Premier League
Market: Everton to win against West Ham
Odds: 17/20 @ Bet 365
Everton welcome West Ham United to Goodison Park in this afternoon’s Premier League, and are favourites to pick up all three points to stay within touching distance of fifth-placed Chelsea in the table.
The Toffees are enjoying a bright season under new manager Ronald Koeman, currently sitting sixth in the Premier League table with 15 points from nine games. But they have suffered a blip in form of late, having gone four games without a win ahead of this afternoon’s clash with the Hammers.
A win could see them narrow the deficit to Chelsea to just a point, but West Ham will be a tricky opposition given their recent upturn in form. United find themselves 16th in the Premier League with 10 points, but they have won two and draw one of their last three in the division.
However, with the Hammers picking up just one win from their four away games this season, while Everton boast two wins and two draws from four home outings, Bet 365 are giving odds of 17/20 for the Toffees to dispatch of the Londoners at Goodison Park today.
Bet: Everton to win against West Ham United in this afternoon’s Premier League clash @ 17/20 with Bet 365 >> Sun 30 Oct, 2016RSS Feed READ MORE "BETTING TIPS AND NEWS"
Stoke City 21/20 to win against Swansea City in tonight’s Premier League clash October 31st, 2016 Valencia 7/5 to win against Deportivo La Coruna in tonight’s Spanish La Liga clash October 31st, 2016 Southampton and Chelsea 12/5 to draw this afternoon’s Premier League clash October 30th, 2016
Manchester United 1/5 to win against Burnley in Saturday’s Premier League clash October 28th, 2016
A new look for 2016, this is the Danielle Colaprico jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Lauren Barnes, Kristie Mewis, Nicole Barnhart, Rose Lavelle and Rachel Van Hollebeke. morgan brian jersey away Tottenham Hotspur 8/13 to win against Leicester City in Saturday’s Premier League clash October 28th, 2016
Everton welcome West Ham United to Goodison Park in this afternoon’s Premier League, and are favourites to pick up all three points to stay within touching distance of fifth-placed Chelsea in the table.
The Toffees are enjoying a bright season under new manager Ronald Koeman, currently sitting sixth in the Premier League table with 15 points from nine games. But they have suffered a blip in form of late, having gone four games without a win ahead of this afternoon’s clash with the Hammers.
A win could see them narrow the deficit to Chelsea to just a point, but West Ham will be a tricky opposition given their recent upturn in form. United find themselves 16th in the Premier League with 10 points, but they have won two and draw one of their last three in the division.
However, with the Hammers picking up just one win from their four away games this season, while Everton boast two wins and two draws from four home outings, Bet 365 are giving odds of 17/20 for the Toffees to dispatch of the Londoners at Goodison Park today.
Bet: Everton to win against West Ham United in this afternoon’s Premier League clash @ 17/20 with Bet 365 >> Sun 30 Oct, 2016RSS Feed READ MORE "BETTING TIPS AND NEWS"
Stoke City 21/20 to win against Swansea City in tonight’s Premier League clash October 31st, 2016 Valencia 7/5 to win against Deportivo La Coruna in tonight’s Spanish La Liga clash October 31st, 2016 Southampton and Chelsea 12/5 to draw this afternoon’s Premier League clash October 30th, 2016
Manchester United 1/5 to win against Burnley in Saturday’s Premier League clash October 28th, 2016
A new look for 2016, this is the Danielle Colaprico jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Lauren Barnes, Kristie Mewis, Nicole Barnhart, Rose Lavelle and Rachel Van Hollebeke. morgan brian jersey away Tottenham Hotspur 8/13 to win against Leicester City in Saturday’s Premier League clash October 28th, 2016
An easy win? This is the Premier League and we are West Ham, fumes Bilic
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West Ham boss Slaven Bilic feels talk of Champions League qualification and easy Premier League victories contributed to his side’s poor start to the season.
The Hammers failed to qualify for the Europa League group stages and only picked up three points from their first six top-flight matches of 2016-17, having finished seventh last term.
However, West Ham have now won three and drawn one of their last four in all competitions to steady the ship ahead of Sunday’s trip to Everton. A frustrated Bilic believes it was lofty expectations and a hint of complacency that caused their early season struggles.
“We got a bit of that complacency – I smelled it,” he told Sky Sports. “I smelled it during the pre-season when I spoke to the press. You have press conferences even in pre-season and before our qualification games for Europa League and 70 per cent of the questions were about Champions League. ‘What are you talking about?’ was in my head.
“On one hand you don’t want to be pessimistic, but on the other hand – and I was talking about it to my staff – if they are asking me those kind of questions they are asking the players the same kind of questions.
“What is the reason? We are not afraid of anyone, but why are we talking about Champions League? “We played at home against Watford and in a pre-match interview I was asked, ‘Are you thinking of an easy 3-0 win?’ and I was like, ‘What are you talking about?’
“This is the Premier League and we are West Ham. Nobody can talk about an easy 3-0 win.
“Those kind of things got us in a state of a little bit of complacency. You don’t do it deliberately. You don’t even notice, but it comes. “Just five per cent, with a little bit of bad luck, is enough to get you in serious problems. Thank God we reacted well and on time.”
Despite increased expectations, Bilic does not regret West Ham’s impressive results last season.
He added: “We are the victims of our own success, but what should we have done?
“Lose a few games once we are safe? Then it wouldn’t be a great season, it would be OK, and we would be on our toes? No.
“We are not the first and we are not the last team to be a victim of its own success.
A new look for 2016, this is the Lauren Barnes jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Kristie Mewis, Rose Lavelle, Tori Huster, Rachel Van Hollebeke and Nicole Barnhart. heather o'reilly jersey away “We are a club that is moving places. We have a new stadium. The board and the whole West Ham family is trying to move this club to another level.”
The Hammers failed to qualify for the Europa League group stages and only picked up three points from their first six top-flight matches of 2016-17, having finished seventh last term.
However, West Ham have now won three and drawn one of their last four in all competitions to steady the ship ahead of Sunday’s trip to Everton. A frustrated Bilic believes it was lofty expectations and a hint of complacency that caused their early season struggles.
“We got a bit of that complacency – I smelled it,” he told Sky Sports. “I smelled it during the pre-season when I spoke to the press. You have press conferences even in pre-season and before our qualification games for Europa League and 70 per cent of the questions were about Champions League. ‘What are you talking about?’ was in my head.
“On one hand you don’t want to be pessimistic, but on the other hand – and I was talking about it to my staff – if they are asking me those kind of questions they are asking the players the same kind of questions.
“What is the reason? We are not afraid of anyone, but why are we talking about Champions League? “We played at home against Watford and in a pre-match interview I was asked, ‘Are you thinking of an easy 3-0 win?’ and I was like, ‘What are you talking about?’
“This is the Premier League and we are West Ham. Nobody can talk about an easy 3-0 win.
“Those kind of things got us in a state of a little bit of complacency. You don’t do it deliberately. You don’t even notice, but it comes. “Just five per cent, with a little bit of bad luck, is enough to get you in serious problems. Thank God we reacted well and on time.”
Despite increased expectations, Bilic does not regret West Ham’s impressive results last season.
He added: “We are the victims of our own success, but what should we have done?
“Lose a few games once we are safe? Then it wouldn’t be a great season, it would be OK, and we would be on our toes? No.
“We are not the first and we are not the last team to be a victim of its own success.
A new look for 2016, this is the Lauren Barnes jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Kristie Mewis, Rose Lavelle, Tori Huster, Rachel Van Hollebeke and Nicole Barnhart. heather o'reilly jersey away “We are a club that is moving places. We have a new stadium. The board and the whole West Ham family is trying to move this club to another level.”
Top-four a priority this season
What has happened to Mourinho?
United Mourinho seems to have some sort of personality transplant. During his winning-days at Chelsea he was a big character. He was controversial, entertaining and loved to play mind games. Love him or loathe him he always brought an edge to football.
The Portuguese boss seems like a more restrained character since arriving at Old Trafford. Question marks were raised by certain United legends about his controversial behaviour prior to his appointment as United boss.
Possibly for the first time in his managerial career he is actually restraining himself. Maybe he is playing down his personality. The fiery Mourinho is still in there, as was proven by the fact he was sent to the stands against Burnley on Saturday.
Mourinho appears to be a shadow of his former-self. The problem for Mourinho is that his former persona was probably the key to him being so successful earlier in his career.
United did not hire him to be restrained. They hired him on the strength of his silverware collection. That silverware was achieved by being a controversial and fiery boss. Mourinho needs to change something or his career as Manchester United boss will not be a successful or long one.
Top-four a priority this season The appointment of Mourinho as Manchester United boss was supposed to solve all the Red Devils problems. However, it was highly optimistic that United would go from finishing fifth in the table to becoming champions.
The Red Devils are currently eighth in the Premier League table, eight points behind arch-rivals and league leaders Manchester City. United’s current position leaves them as very much outsiders for the title at odds of 25/1.
Those odds are a far cry to the start of the season when they were regarded as one of the favourites to win the title this season. The Red Devils’ priority this season has to be finishing in the top-four. In itself that could be very difficult.
If anybody thought that just hiring Mourinho and signing big name stars would take United back to the glory days then they must have been naïve. The Premier League is getting more and more competitive every season. Even finishing in the top-four is highly difficult.
United discovering past glories make take longer than expected. The Red Devils team is still in major need of rebuilding. Whether Mourinho still has it in him to turn things around at United remains to be seen. Are Manchester United genuine title contenders?
Sun 30 Oct, 2016RSS Feed LAST 5 POSTS BY DAVID NUGENT
Miroslav Klose retires from football Henrikh Mkhitaryan needs a chance at Manchester United Koeman needs to unlock mercurial Mersey magic
A new look for 2016, this is the Kristie Mewis jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Rose Lavelle, Rachel Van Hollebeke, Adrianna Franch, Nicole Barnhart and Tori Huster. hope solo jersey away Southampton still progressing under Claude Puel Is English football too much for Zlatan Ibrahimovic?
The Portuguese boss seems like a more restrained character since arriving at Old Trafford. Question marks were raised by certain United legends about his controversial behaviour prior to his appointment as United boss.
Possibly for the first time in his managerial career he is actually restraining himself. Maybe he is playing down his personality. The fiery Mourinho is still in there, as was proven by the fact he was sent to the stands against Burnley on Saturday.
Mourinho appears to be a shadow of his former-self. The problem for Mourinho is that his former persona was probably the key to him being so successful earlier in his career.
United did not hire him to be restrained. They hired him on the strength of his silverware collection. That silverware was achieved by being a controversial and fiery boss. Mourinho needs to change something or his career as Manchester United boss will not be a successful or long one.
Top-four a priority this season The appointment of Mourinho as Manchester United boss was supposed to solve all the Red Devils problems. However, it was highly optimistic that United would go from finishing fifth in the table to becoming champions.
The Red Devils are currently eighth in the Premier League table, eight points behind arch-rivals and league leaders Manchester City. United’s current position leaves them as very much outsiders for the title at odds of 25/1.
Those odds are a far cry to the start of the season when they were regarded as one of the favourites to win the title this season. The Red Devils’ priority this season has to be finishing in the top-four. In itself that could be very difficult.
If anybody thought that just hiring Mourinho and signing big name stars would take United back to the glory days then they must have been naïve. The Premier League is getting more and more competitive every season. Even finishing in the top-four is highly difficult.
United discovering past glories make take longer than expected. The Red Devils team is still in major need of rebuilding. Whether Mourinho still has it in him to turn things around at United remains to be seen. Are Manchester United genuine title contenders?
Sun 30 Oct, 2016RSS Feed LAST 5 POSTS BY DAVID NUGENT
Miroslav Klose retires from football Henrikh Mkhitaryan needs a chance at Manchester United Koeman needs to unlock mercurial Mersey magic
A new look for 2016, this is the Kristie Mewis jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Rose Lavelle, Rachel Van Hollebeke, Adrianna Franch, Nicole Barnhart and Tori Huster. hope solo jersey away Southampton still progressing under Claude Puel Is English football too much for Zlatan Ibrahimovic?
Manchester United still a major rebuilding job
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Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho has his work cut out to help the Red Devils back to the glory days
If the Manchester United hierarchy thought that bringing in high-profile figures was the answer to the clubs problems they were sorely mistaken.
The Red Devils were once again frustrated in the Premier League on Saturday as Burnley came to Old Trafford and left with a goalless draw.
The goalless score-line was mainly due to former-United ‘keeper Tom Heaton’s brilliance. However, United had 37 shots on goal. Poor finishing also played a big part in blank scoreline.
Superstars do not solve every problem Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho has his work cut out to help Red Devils back to the glory days
For decades Sir Alex Ferguson made managing Manchester United look easy. He built and dismantled many a winning team. The veteran Scot even jettisoned some big names. But kept on winning trophies. His teams were not always built on big name players. In fact, when he retired in 2013 the Red Devils had very few star players still at the club.
Subsequently, successor David Moyes struggled and Louis van Gaal underachieved. Despite the latter trying to throw money at the situation. Not learning from their mistakes this summer United again went stargazing.
The Red Devils hired star boss Jose Mourinho. Then veteran Swedish Zlatan Ibrahimovic arrived on a free transfer. They then decided to bring in French midfielder Paul Pogba for a world-record fee.
Early signs suggest that the moves may not help United bring back the glory days. Ibrahimovic and Pogba are good players. They would improve most teams when on form of course.
Ibrahimovic has been struggling of late for the Red Devils. While Pogba still looks to be getting re-accustomed to the English game.
A new look for 2016, this is the Rose Lavelle jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Rachel Van Hollebeke, Nicole Barnhart, Shannon MacMillan, Tori Huster and Adrianna Franch. mallory pugh jersey away It seemed United believed that signing the pair would make it appear like the Red Devils they were big time again. Unfortunately for United, their signings only papered over the cracks in their team elsewhere.
The Red Devils were once again frustrated in the Premier League on Saturday as Burnley came to Old Trafford and left with a goalless draw.
The goalless score-line was mainly due to former-United ‘keeper Tom Heaton’s brilliance. However, United had 37 shots on goal. Poor finishing also played a big part in blank scoreline.
Superstars do not solve every problem Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho has his work cut out to help Red Devils back to the glory days
For decades Sir Alex Ferguson made managing Manchester United look easy. He built and dismantled many a winning team. The veteran Scot even jettisoned some big names. But kept on winning trophies. His teams were not always built on big name players. In fact, when he retired in 2013 the Red Devils had very few star players still at the club.
Subsequently, successor David Moyes struggled and Louis van Gaal underachieved. Despite the latter trying to throw money at the situation. Not learning from their mistakes this summer United again went stargazing.
The Red Devils hired star boss Jose Mourinho. Then veteran Swedish Zlatan Ibrahimovic arrived on a free transfer. They then decided to bring in French midfielder Paul Pogba for a world-record fee.
Early signs suggest that the moves may not help United bring back the glory days. Ibrahimovic and Pogba are good players. They would improve most teams when on form of course.
Ibrahimovic has been struggling of late for the Red Devils. While Pogba still looks to be getting re-accustomed to the English game.
A new look for 2016, this is the Rose Lavelle jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Rachel Van Hollebeke, Nicole Barnhart, Shannon MacMillan, Tori Huster and Adrianna Franch. mallory pugh jersey away It seemed United believed that signing the pair would make it appear like the Red Devils they were big time again. Unfortunately for United, their signings only papered over the cracks in their team elsewhere.
No special treatment for Terry, warns Conte
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Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has warned John Terry his status as captain does not guarantee him a place in the starting XI.
The 35-year-old made his first appearance in over six weeks when the Blues suffered a 2-1 EFL Cup defeat to West Ham on Wednesday, the veteran defender having recovered from an ankle problem.
Terry had been an unused substitute for Chelsea’s previous two matches and is expected to be back on the bench when Conte’s men travel to play Southampton on Sunday, with the Italian not giving the long-serving centre-back any special treatment.
“My decisions are only for the best for the team, for the club and to win,” Conte told reporters. “If one player is captain or vice-captain, it’s not important.
“It’s important to find the right solution to take the best decision for the team, in this moment. Yes, I can make a mistake, but I always try to make the best decision.
“We win together and we lose together in every circumstance. I have always to take the best decision for the team, never for an individual player.
“It’s logical that John came back from injury and it’s not easy to restart and to find quickly the right shape. I’m satisfied [with] him and the team.
“John is an important player for us – if he plays or if he doesn’t play – for the changing room, for his team-mates, for the club.” Sun 30 Oct, 2016RSS Feed LAST 5 POSTS BY SOCCERNEWS
Pochettino wants Tottenham to create Wembley fortress Mourinho charged with misconduct
A new look for 2016, this is the Rachel Van Hollebeke jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Nicole Barnhart, Tori Huster, Kate Markgraf, Adrianna Franch and Shannon MacMillan. christen press jersey away Kane in contention for north London derby Messi should not captain Argentina – Passarella
The 35-year-old made his first appearance in over six weeks when the Blues suffered a 2-1 EFL Cup defeat to West Ham on Wednesday, the veteran defender having recovered from an ankle problem.
Terry had been an unused substitute for Chelsea’s previous two matches and is expected to be back on the bench when Conte’s men travel to play Southampton on Sunday, with the Italian not giving the long-serving centre-back any special treatment.
“My decisions are only for the best for the team, for the club and to win,” Conte told reporters. “If one player is captain or vice-captain, it’s not important.
“It’s important to find the right solution to take the best decision for the team, in this moment. Yes, I can make a mistake, but I always try to make the best decision.
“We win together and we lose together in every circumstance. I have always to take the best decision for the team, never for an individual player.
“It’s logical that John came back from injury and it’s not easy to restart and to find quickly the right shape. I’m satisfied [with] him and the team.
“John is an important player for us – if he plays or if he doesn’t play – for the changing room, for his team-mates, for the club.” Sun 30 Oct, 2016RSS Feed LAST 5 POSTS BY SOCCERNEWS
Pochettino wants Tottenham to create Wembley fortress Mourinho charged with misconduct
A new look for 2016, this is the Rachel Van Hollebeke jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Nicole Barnhart, Tori Huster, Kate Markgraf, Adrianna Franch and Shannon MacMillan. christen press jersey away Kane in contention for north London derby Messi should not captain Argentina – Passarella
Barry: Everton players have had to lift Barkley
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Everton’s senior players have had to lift the spirits of Ross Barkley after his tough start to the 2016-17 season, Gareth Barry has revealed.
Barkley has lost his place in the England squad since being an unused part of the national team set-up at Euro 2016 and was also left on the bench for his club’s draw with Manchester City earlier this month.
The 22-year-old has only scored once in eight Premier League games and has been warned over the level of his performances by new Everton boss Ronald Koeman on multiple occasions.
Barry feels Barkley has found the negative experience tough to deal with, having had a largely successful spell under former manager Roberto Martinez.
“He obviously has had it really good for two years since Roberto Martinez came here and saw him as the focal point of his team,” Barry said to Sky Sports ahead of Sunday’s home game against West Ham.
“But being left out of the England squad and dropped at Everton for the first time, that’s the time you need to have a little word with him to keep him going. “When things are going well it’s easy to keep going, so Ross needed a few words from a few of the experienced players to keep his head up at a time like this.”
Koeman’s forthright managerial style has impressed Barry, who feels players appreciate being told the truth, even if they may not be hearing positive words.
Barry added: “There are no hiding places. If you are not reaching the levels you will get found out. He’s not messed about, he has told players how it is.
“If he is thinking something and players are not doing it he is letting them know. For me that’s all a player wants, what a manager is thinking, nothing being hidden.”
Everton have followed up a run of five consecutive wins by going the same amount of matches without a victory in all competitions.
A new look for 2016, this is the Nicole Barnhart jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Tori Huster, Adrianna Franch, Julie Foudy, Shannon MacMillan and Kate Markgraf. kelley o'hara jersey away “It’s a huge game against West Ham in front of our own fans for the first time in a while – if we can get three points that’s the sort of run we want to start again,” said Barry.
Barkley has lost his place in the England squad since being an unused part of the national team set-up at Euro 2016 and was also left on the bench for his club’s draw with Manchester City earlier this month.
The 22-year-old has only scored once in eight Premier League games and has been warned over the level of his performances by new Everton boss Ronald Koeman on multiple occasions.
Barry feels Barkley has found the negative experience tough to deal with, having had a largely successful spell under former manager Roberto Martinez.
“He obviously has had it really good for two years since Roberto Martinez came here and saw him as the focal point of his team,” Barry said to Sky Sports ahead of Sunday’s home game against West Ham.
“But being left out of the England squad and dropped at Everton for the first time, that’s the time you need to have a little word with him to keep him going. “When things are going well it’s easy to keep going, so Ross needed a few words from a few of the experienced players to keep his head up at a time like this.”
Koeman’s forthright managerial style has impressed Barry, who feels players appreciate being told the truth, even if they may not be hearing positive words.
Barry added: “There are no hiding places. If you are not reaching the levels you will get found out. He’s not messed about, he has told players how it is.
“If he is thinking something and players are not doing it he is letting them know. For me that’s all a player wants, what a manager is thinking, nothing being hidden.”
Everton have followed up a run of five consecutive wins by going the same amount of matches without a victory in all competitions.
A new look for 2016, this is the Nicole Barnhart jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Tori Huster, Adrianna Franch, Julie Foudy, Shannon MacMillan and Kate Markgraf. kelley o'hara jersey away “It’s a huge game against West Ham in front of our own fans for the first time in a while – if we can get three points that’s the sort of run we want to start again,” said Barry.
David Villa dreaming of Spain recall
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Earning a Spain recall would be a dream come true for David Villa, but the New York City captain insists he is solely focused on the MLS play-offs.
Spain’s all-time leading goalscorer Villa has not featured for the national team since the 2014 World Cup in Brazil but the 34-year-old has caught the attention of head coach Julen Lopetegui.
Lopetegui revealed Villa – who has 97 caps to his name – could return to the international fold for next month’s World Cup qualifier against Macedonia having scored 23 goals in 33 league games this season, but the former Atletico Madrid and Barcelona star is not looking beyond Sunday’s Eastern Conference semi-final first-leg showdown against Toronto FC.
“Now, one day before the most important game, I’m not thinking about this,” Villa said via mlssoccer after training on Saturday.
“The next call is in next Friday. I hope, because for me it would be a dream to be there, but this is not the moment to speak about that.”
Winner of Euro 2008 and the World Cup in 2010 with Spain, Villa has scored 41 goals in 63 appearances since swapping LaLiga for MLS two years ago. Sun 30 Oct, 2016RSS Feed LAST 5 POSTS BY SOCCERNEWS
Pochettino wants Tottenham to create Wembley fortress Mourinho charged with misconduct Kane in contention for north London derby
A new look for 2016, this is the Tori Huster jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Adrianna Franch, Shannon MacMillan, Joy Fawcett, Kate Markgraf and Julie Foudy. becky sauerbrunn jersey away Messi should not captain Argentina – Passarella Rejuvenated Sterling: I forgot my identity under Pellegrini
Spain’s all-time leading goalscorer Villa has not featured for the national team since the 2014 World Cup in Brazil but the 34-year-old has caught the attention of head coach Julen Lopetegui.
Lopetegui revealed Villa – who has 97 caps to his name – could return to the international fold for next month’s World Cup qualifier against Macedonia having scored 23 goals in 33 league games this season, but the former Atletico Madrid and Barcelona star is not looking beyond Sunday’s Eastern Conference semi-final first-leg showdown against Toronto FC.
“Now, one day before the most important game, I’m not thinking about this,” Villa said via mlssoccer after training on Saturday.
“The next call is in next Friday. I hope, because for me it would be a dream to be there, but this is not the moment to speak about that.”
Winner of Euro 2008 and the World Cup in 2010 with Spain, Villa has scored 41 goals in 63 appearances since swapping LaLiga for MLS two years ago. Sun 30 Oct, 2016RSS Feed LAST 5 POSTS BY SOCCERNEWS
Pochettino wants Tottenham to create Wembley fortress Mourinho charged with misconduct Kane in contention for north London derby
A new look for 2016, this is the Tori Huster jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Adrianna Franch, Shannon MacMillan, Joy Fawcett, Kate Markgraf and Julie Foudy. becky sauerbrunn jersey away Messi should not captain Argentina – Passarella Rejuvenated Sterling: I forgot my identity under Pellegrini
Guardiola taking revenge against Yaya Toure, claims agent
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Yaya Toure’s agent claims Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is freezing out the Ivorian midfielder to exact revenge.
Toure has only made one appearance for City this season – in a Champions League play-off in August – and Guardiola has vowed not to play the 33-year-old again unless he apologises for critical comments made by Dimitri Seluk.
Seluk angered Guardiola after hitting out at the Spaniard following his “humiliating” decision to omit Toure from City’s Champions League squad. An apology from Seluk, however, is not forthcoming, with the outspoken agent insisting the issue stems from him criticising then-Barcelona boss Guardiola for selling Toure to City in 2010.
“I know what his problem is,” Seluk told the Mirror. “When Pep forced Yaya out of Barcelona I criticised him.
“This is his revenge. And it is personal, not professional. I asked City in the summer if they wanted Yaya to leave and was told that he was part of the plan.”
“When Yaya was left out of the Champions League squad, I called Pep. I wanted to ask him his reasons, but he didn’t call me back,” Seluk continued.
“I also tried to call Txiki – but he didn’t call me back either. So I don’t think the club can criticise me for doing an interview in the newspaper when they wouldn’t even talk to me.
“Pep talks about respect. But to get respect you have to show it.Before City played at the Nou Camp, I called Pep again. I wanted to ask him if we could meet for talks while he was in Barcelona.
“I also called Txiki. But nothing came back. I sent them texts also, but again there was nothing back. I have the phone records to prove this.” Seluk added: “I was not making contact to apologise – but neither Pep or Txiki knew this. Why should I apologise when I am guilty of nothing but telling the truth?
“My idea was to talk man-to-man, to find out how we can move things forward for the best interests of Manchester City and Yaya. All I got was silence. So it must be clear to everyone that Pep isn’t looking for an apology.
“It is about him turning Sheikh Mansour and the City fans against a player who loves the club. A new look for 2016, this is the Adrianna Franch jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Shannon MacMillan, Kate Markgraf, Cindy Parlow, Julie Foudy and Joy Fawcett. whitney engen jersey away
“Pep is allowing his ego to make decisions that aren’t in the best interests of Manchester City.”
Toure has only made one appearance for City this season – in a Champions League play-off in August – and Guardiola has vowed not to play the 33-year-old again unless he apologises for critical comments made by Dimitri Seluk.
Seluk angered Guardiola after hitting out at the Spaniard following his “humiliating” decision to omit Toure from City’s Champions League squad. An apology from Seluk, however, is not forthcoming, with the outspoken agent insisting the issue stems from him criticising then-Barcelona boss Guardiola for selling Toure to City in 2010.
“I know what his problem is,” Seluk told the Mirror. “When Pep forced Yaya out of Barcelona I criticised him.
“This is his revenge. And it is personal, not professional. I asked City in the summer if they wanted Yaya to leave and was told that he was part of the plan.”
“When Yaya was left out of the Champions League squad, I called Pep. I wanted to ask him his reasons, but he didn’t call me back,” Seluk continued.
“I also tried to call Txiki – but he didn’t call me back either. So I don’t think the club can criticise me for doing an interview in the newspaper when they wouldn’t even talk to me.
“Pep talks about respect. But to get respect you have to show it.Before City played at the Nou Camp, I called Pep again. I wanted to ask him if we could meet for talks while he was in Barcelona.
“I also called Txiki. But nothing came back. I sent them texts also, but again there was nothing back. I have the phone records to prove this.” Seluk added: “I was not making contact to apologise – but neither Pep or Txiki knew this. Why should I apologise when I am guilty of nothing but telling the truth?
“My idea was to talk man-to-man, to find out how we can move things forward for the best interests of Manchester City and Yaya. All I got was silence. So it must be clear to everyone that Pep isn’t looking for an apology.
“It is about him turning Sheikh Mansour and the City fans against a player who loves the club. A new look for 2016, this is the Adrianna Franch jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Shannon MacMillan, Kate Markgraf, Cindy Parlow, Julie Foudy and Joy Fawcett. whitney engen jersey away
“Pep is allowing his ego to make decisions that aren’t in the best interests of Manchester City.”
Sarri wishes Higuain luck after Juve striker downs Napoli
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Napoli coach Maurizio Sarri lauded Gonzalo Higuain and wished the phenomenal Juventus striker luck after coming back to haunt his former team.
Ex-Napoli star Higuain was the match-winner in Turin on Saturday as Serie A champions Juventus claimed a 2-1 victory. Public enemy number one in Naples after angering fans by moving to the Italian title-holders in the off-season, Higuain did not celebrate his 70th-minute goal.
And after sharing a pre-match embrace with Higuain, Sarri had nothing but praise for the 28-year-old, who scored a record-breaking 36 goals as a Napoli player last season.
“He is a phenomenon, a loose ball at Gonzalo’s feet means certain death for defenders,” Sarri told Sky Sport Italia.
“If Gonzalo wins something in Europe, I am happy for him. Less so for Juve, but I’ll be happy for him.”
Higuain’s goal secured Juve’s sixth successive home league win of the season as they moved five points clear of second-placed Rona, who are due to play on Sunday. Napoli, meanwhile, are seven points off the pace in third.
Sun 30 Oct, 2016RSS Feed LAST 5 POSTS BY SOCCERNEWS
Pochettino wants Tottenham to create Wembley fortress Mourinho charged with misconduct
Kane in contention for north London derby Messi should not captain Argentina – Passarella
A new look for 2016, this is the Shannon MacMillan jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Kate Markgraf, Julie Foudy, Carla Overbeck, Joy Fawcett and Cindy Parlow. crystal dunn jersey away Rejuvenated Sterling: I forgot my identity under Pellegrini
Ex-Napoli star Higuain was the match-winner in Turin on Saturday as Serie A champions Juventus claimed a 2-1 victory. Public enemy number one in Naples after angering fans by moving to the Italian title-holders in the off-season, Higuain did not celebrate his 70th-minute goal.
And after sharing a pre-match embrace with Higuain, Sarri had nothing but praise for the 28-year-old, who scored a record-breaking 36 goals as a Napoli player last season.
“He is a phenomenon, a loose ball at Gonzalo’s feet means certain death for defenders,” Sarri told Sky Sport Italia.
“If Gonzalo wins something in Europe, I am happy for him. Less so for Juve, but I’ll be happy for him.”
Higuain’s goal secured Juve’s sixth successive home league win of the season as they moved five points clear of second-placed Rona, who are due to play on Sunday. Napoli, meanwhile, are seven points off the pace in third.
Sun 30 Oct, 2016RSS Feed LAST 5 POSTS BY SOCCERNEWS
Pochettino wants Tottenham to create Wembley fortress Mourinho charged with misconduct
Kane in contention for north London derby Messi should not captain Argentina – Passarella
A new look for 2016, this is the Shannon MacMillan jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Kate Markgraf, Julie Foudy, Carla Overbeck, Joy Fawcett and Cindy Parlow. crystal dunn jersey away Rejuvenated Sterling: I forgot my identity under Pellegrini
Conte wants to prove Ferguson wrong in Premier League title race
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Antonio Conte is determined to prove Alex Ferguson wrong after the former Manchester United manager dismissed Chelsea’s Premier League title hopes.
Despite Chelsea’s 4-0 rout of United, Ferguson instead talked up Manchester City, Tottenham, Liverpool, Arsenal and his former side as potential candidates.
Chelsea are fifth in the standings, four points adrift of top spot as they prepare to face Southampton on Sunday, and head coach Conte insists it is too early to be writing off his team’s chances.
“I respect a lot what he said, but I know that we are working very well,” Conte said. “I think now we are now in a good way to improve a lot and to become a team that can stay [in contention] till the end to get something. “Our ambition must be always to play to win every game. Always. It’s important.
“I try to transfer this to my players in every moment, in every day, every week, in every game.
“We must be ambitious. But to be ambitious you must work a lot.”
“It’s very difficult to tell now our target,” the Italian continued. “Because it’s early and in these games, we had difficulty against Arsenal and Liverpool.
“For this reason it’s important not to look at the table. It’s important to understand this type of work we’re doing now is good to improve and to become a strong team.
“A bit of time in the future, yes, after I think eight, 10 [more] games, I can tell our target.”
Sun 30 Oct, 2016RSS Feed LAST 5 POSTS BY SOCCERNEWS
A new look for 2016, this is the Kate Markgraf jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Julie Foudy, Joy Fawcett, Carin Jennings-Gabarra, Cindy Parlow and Carla Overbeck. ali krieger jersey away Pochettino wants Tottenham to create Wembley fortress Mourinho charged with misconduct
Despite Chelsea’s 4-0 rout of United, Ferguson instead talked up Manchester City, Tottenham, Liverpool, Arsenal and his former side as potential candidates.
Chelsea are fifth in the standings, four points adrift of top spot as they prepare to face Southampton on Sunday, and head coach Conte insists it is too early to be writing off his team’s chances.
“I respect a lot what he said, but I know that we are working very well,” Conte said. “I think now we are now in a good way to improve a lot and to become a team that can stay [in contention] till the end to get something. “Our ambition must be always to play to win every game. Always. It’s important.
“I try to transfer this to my players in every moment, in every day, every week, in every game.
“We must be ambitious. But to be ambitious you must work a lot.”
“It’s very difficult to tell now our target,” the Italian continued. “Because it’s early and in these games, we had difficulty against Arsenal and Liverpool.
“For this reason it’s important not to look at the table. It’s important to understand this type of work we’re doing now is good to improve and to become a strong team.
“A bit of time in the future, yes, after I think eight, 10 [more] games, I can tell our target.”
Sun 30 Oct, 2016RSS Feed LAST 5 POSTS BY SOCCERNEWS
A new look for 2016, this is the Kate Markgraf jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Julie Foudy, Joy Fawcett, Carin Jennings-Gabarra, Cindy Parlow and Carla Overbeck. ali krieger jersey away Pochettino wants Tottenham to create Wembley fortress Mourinho charged with misconduct
Jagielka encourages Rooney´s Everton return
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Everton skipper Phil Jagielka believes Wayne Rooney would be welcome back at Goodison Park, with the Manchester United captain no longer an automatic choice at Old Trafford.
Rooney has endured a difficult season in 2016-17, falling out of favour with both United and England as he struggles for game time in the Premier League.
The 31-year-old’s situation has sparked rumours of a potential return to Merseyside, where he left for United in 2004 amid anger from Everton supporters.
But Jagielka feels all is forgiven at Everton as the centre-back encouraged Rooney’s potential homecoming.
“Maybe a fresh start somewhere would help him or maybe he’s a game away from being a hero again. He is an Evertonian and I am sure the fans would take to him,” Jagielka said.
“He has built the bridges that he potentially burnt many years ago when he was a young lad and you’ll have to watch this space.”
Jagielka added: “Obviously Wayne has got a long contract at Man U, he’s still their captain. Just because he’s not playing at the moment doesn’t mean he is not a massive part of their team.
“Plus obviously you would need to speak to the manager and see if Wayne would fit into the jigsaw that the manager has got planned ahead for us.
“We still know he is a fantastic player and people are quick to jump on his back, but that is the way Wayne has had it for most of his career. So maybe a fresh start somewhere would help him or maybe he is a game away from being a hero again.
A new look for 2016, this is the Julie Foudy jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Joy Fawcett, Cindy Parlow, April Heinrichs, Carla Overbeck and Carin Jennings-Gabarra. carli lloyd jersey away “So it is a difficult one. He is a good player and if you ask the manager whether he would like him or not I think that would solve it a bit quicker than most but I doubt he is going to give you that much information.”
Rooney has endured a difficult season in 2016-17, falling out of favour with both United and England as he struggles for game time in the Premier League.
The 31-year-old’s situation has sparked rumours of a potential return to Merseyside, where he left for United in 2004 amid anger from Everton supporters.
But Jagielka feels all is forgiven at Everton as the centre-back encouraged Rooney’s potential homecoming.
“Maybe a fresh start somewhere would help him or maybe he’s a game away from being a hero again. He is an Evertonian and I am sure the fans would take to him,” Jagielka said.
“He has built the bridges that he potentially burnt many years ago when he was a young lad and you’ll have to watch this space.”
Jagielka added: “Obviously Wayne has got a long contract at Man U, he’s still their captain. Just because he’s not playing at the moment doesn’t mean he is not a massive part of their team.
“Plus obviously you would need to speak to the manager and see if Wayne would fit into the jigsaw that the manager has got planned ahead for us.
“We still know he is a fantastic player and people are quick to jump on his back, but that is the way Wayne has had it for most of his career. So maybe a fresh start somewhere would help him or maybe he is a game away from being a hero again.
A new look for 2016, this is the Julie Foudy jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Joy Fawcett, Cindy Parlow, April Heinrichs, Carla Overbeck and Carin Jennings-Gabarra. carli lloyd jersey away “So it is a difficult one. He is a good player and if you ask the manager whether he would like him or not I think that would solve it a bit quicker than most but I doubt he is going to give you that much information.”
Robben in no rush to sign new Bayern deal
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Arjen Robben claims he is not preoccupied by extending his Bayern Munich contract which expires at the end of the season.
The 32-year-old Dutch winger was on target in Bayern’s 3-1 win over Augsburg on Saturday.
Chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has previously suggested talks are planned with Robben about his future at the club. When asked about this after Saturday’s victory, Rummenigge said: “Do not worry, next season we will have a great squad.”
Robben’s agent and father said last month the player was happy to stay at the club he joined in 2009 and that talks would take place in the autumn.
Speaking after his goal against Augsburg, Robben suggested those negotiations are yet to begin, but he is not spending too much time worrying about it.
“[Rummenigge] has the phone number of my father, so he can call anytime and invite him to a coffee. But that’s not the most important thing for me,” he told reporters.
“My goal is to stay healthy and to show good performances. We know how important we [him and Bayern] are for each other.
“I am honest, but I don’t think about it this much. I am just here and I am focussed to show good performances.
“Contract or not, I am at Bayern Munich. I know my contract expires in 2017, that’s the one thing, to stay healthy is the other, then the rhythm will come from within.
A new look for 2016, this is the Joy Fawcett jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Cindy Parlow, Carla Overbeck, Aly Wagner, Carin Jennings-Gabarra and April Heinrichs. morgan brian jersey away “The third thing maybe is a new contract.”
Chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has previously suggested talks are planned with Robben about his future at the club. When asked about this after Saturday’s victory, Rummenigge said: “Do not worry, next season we will have a great squad.”
Robben’s agent and father said last month the player was happy to stay at the club he joined in 2009 and that talks would take place in the autumn.
Speaking after his goal against Augsburg, Robben suggested those negotiations are yet to begin, but he is not spending too much time worrying about it.
“[Rummenigge] has the phone number of my father, so he can call anytime and invite him to a coffee. But that’s not the most important thing for me,” he told reporters.
“My goal is to stay healthy and to show good performances. We know how important we [him and Bayern] are for each other.
“I am honest, but I don’t think about it this much. I am just here and I am focussed to show good performances.
“Contract or not, I am at Bayern Munich. I know my contract expires in 2017, that’s the one thing, to stay healthy is the other, then the rhythm will come from within.
A new look for 2016, this is the Joy Fawcett jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Cindy Parlow, Carla Overbeck, Aly Wagner, Carin Jennings-Gabarra and April Heinrichs. morgan brian jersey away “The third thing maybe is a new contract.”
Simeone ´laughs´ at idea Atletico attack more this season
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Diego Simeone scoffed at claims Atletico Madrid are a more attacking team this season after they beat Malaga 4-2.
Two goals apiece for Yannick Carrasco and Kevin Gameiro sealed the victory, despite having Stefan Savic sent off at the Vicente Calderon.
The emphatic win lifted Atletico to third in LaLiga and is the fourth occasion they have scored four or more goals in just eight league games – a feat they managed just once last season.
But the Argentine coach rubbished the idea that Atletico are taking a more attacking approach. “I laugh when people say that only now are we an attacking team and that only now do we play well,” Simeone told a media conference.
He says the victory over 11th-placed Malaga was the result of hard work. “It was a difficult game, but we controlled it well,” he said.
“It was a deserved victory, but a hard-fought one. “With a 3-2 scoreline it can always be dangerous.
“The most difficult part of the match, when we had a man disadvantage, was solved by structure.”
Sat 29 Oct, 2016RSS Feed LAST 5 POSTS BY SOCCERNEWS Pochettino wants Tottenham to create Wembley fortress
Mourinho charged with misconduct Kane in contention for north London derby Messi should not captain Argentina – Passarella
A new look for 2016, this is the Cindy Parlow jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Carla Overbeck, Carin Jennings-Gabarra, Mia Hamm, April Heinrichs and Aly Wagner. heather o'reilly jersey away Rejuvenated Sterling: I forgot my identity under Pellegrini
Two goals apiece for Yannick Carrasco and Kevin Gameiro sealed the victory, despite having Stefan Savic sent off at the Vicente Calderon.
The emphatic win lifted Atletico to third in LaLiga and is the fourth occasion they have scored four or more goals in just eight league games – a feat they managed just once last season.
But the Argentine coach rubbished the idea that Atletico are taking a more attacking approach. “I laugh when people say that only now are we an attacking team and that only now do we play well,” Simeone told a media conference.
He says the victory over 11th-placed Malaga was the result of hard work. “It was a difficult game, but we controlled it well,” he said.
“It was a deserved victory, but a hard-fought one. “With a 3-2 scoreline it can always be dangerous.
“The most difficult part of the match, when we had a man disadvantage, was solved by structure.”
Sat 29 Oct, 2016RSS Feed LAST 5 POSTS BY SOCCERNEWS Pochettino wants Tottenham to create Wembley fortress
Mourinho charged with misconduct Kane in contention for north London derby Messi should not captain Argentina – Passarella
A new look for 2016, this is the Cindy Parlow jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Carla Overbeck, Carin Jennings-Gabarra, Mia Hamm, April Heinrichs and Aly Wagner. heather o'reilly jersey away Rejuvenated Sterling: I forgot my identity under Pellegrini
Higuain should not feel like a traitor – Allegri
Juventus boss Massimiliano Allegri believes no guilt should be attached to Gonzalo Higuain’s match-winning turn against his former club Napoli at Juventus Stadium.
Argentina striker Higuain spearheaded Napoli’s bid to dethrone Juve as Serie A champions last season before making an acrimonious €90million move to Turin during the close season.
He made light of being the focus of pre-match attention against his former employers by scoring a 70th minute winner after Jose Callejon swiftly cancelled out Leonardo Bonucci’s opener for the hosts.
Allegri went on to praise Higuain, who refused to celebrate what was his first goal in five games having embraced Napoli coach Maurizio Sarri before the match got under way.
“Gonzalo has extraordinary qualities and above all works hard for the team,” he said. “He was very happy. Naturally this was a special game for him. He made a choice to come here and absolutely should not feel like a traitor. Instead, he made a courageous decision. “He played a good game and has committed as much as [Mario] Mandzukic. They say that they cannot play together, however, I am very satisfied.”
The hard-fought victory was the Serie A leaders’ sixth on the trot at home in the league, taking them seven points clear of their opponents in third and five above second-placed Roma, who visit struggling Empoli on Sunday.
But with the season only 11 games old, Allegri refused to get carried away. “It is an important result, but is still not a decisive one,” he said. “Roma can still aspire to the title. They are five points behind but can win tomorrow and Napoli are seven points back but can recover.
“We won a direct clash against a team that plays beautiful football.
“This match was hard-fought, intense and quite balanced and in the second half we ran a few risks with one-against-one situations. “The game was a little bland in terms of tempo at first, but the intensity stepped up. There were few scoring opportunities – as is natural in these big, top-of-the-table matches.
“I liked the second half, we created and conceded a goal that might have been avoided, but I am satisfied.”
Juventus’ other goalscorer, Bonucci, also admitted that it had been a tough night for the hosts and insisted that they had shown great character to grind out the win.
“It wasn’t a great performance and the credit for that goes to Napoli,” he said.”What mattered was winning and channelling our determination. We are happy with the three points.
“We want to be at the top in Italy and in Europe. We want to win and this is the right attitude.”
A new look for 2016, this is the Carla Overbeck jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Carin Jennings-Gabarra, April Heinrichs, Kristine Lilly, Aly Wagner and Mia Hamm. hope solo jersey away Next on the agenda for the Turin side is Wednesday’s home Champions League clash with Lyon, followed by a league trip to Chievo on Sunday.
Argentina striker Higuain spearheaded Napoli’s bid to dethrone Juve as Serie A champions last season before making an acrimonious €90million move to Turin during the close season.
He made light of being the focus of pre-match attention against his former employers by scoring a 70th minute winner after Jose Callejon swiftly cancelled out Leonardo Bonucci’s opener for the hosts.
Allegri went on to praise Higuain, who refused to celebrate what was his first goal in five games having embraced Napoli coach Maurizio Sarri before the match got under way.
“Gonzalo has extraordinary qualities and above all works hard for the team,” he said. “He was very happy. Naturally this was a special game for him. He made a choice to come here and absolutely should not feel like a traitor. Instead, he made a courageous decision. “He played a good game and has committed as much as [Mario] Mandzukic. They say that they cannot play together, however, I am very satisfied.”
The hard-fought victory was the Serie A leaders’ sixth on the trot at home in the league, taking them seven points clear of their opponents in third and five above second-placed Roma, who visit struggling Empoli on Sunday.
But with the season only 11 games old, Allegri refused to get carried away. “It is an important result, but is still not a decisive one,” he said. “Roma can still aspire to the title. They are five points behind but can win tomorrow and Napoli are seven points back but can recover.
“We won a direct clash against a team that plays beautiful football.
“This match was hard-fought, intense and quite balanced and in the second half we ran a few risks with one-against-one situations. “The game was a little bland in terms of tempo at first, but the intensity stepped up. There were few scoring opportunities – as is natural in these big, top-of-the-table matches.
“I liked the second half, we created and conceded a goal that might have been avoided, but I am satisfied.”
Juventus’ other goalscorer, Bonucci, also admitted that it had been a tough night for the hosts and insisted that they had shown great character to grind out the win.
“It wasn’t a great performance and the credit for that goes to Napoli,” he said.”What mattered was winning and channelling our determination. We are happy with the three points.
“We want to be at the top in Italy and in Europe. We want to win and this is the right attitude.”
A new look for 2016, this is the Carla Overbeck jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Carin Jennings-Gabarra, April Heinrichs, Kristine Lilly, Aly Wagner and Mia Hamm. hope solo jersey away Next on the agenda for the Turin side is Wednesday’s home Champions League clash with Lyon, followed by a league trip to Chievo on Sunday.
Messi would thrive on wet night in Stoke – Denis Suarez
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Lionel Messi would have no problem performing on a wet and windy night in Stoke, according to his Barcelona team-mate Denis Suarez.
British pundits have long used the ‘Stoke test’ as a comical marker by which to judge the ability of the world’s top players, musing whether they would still be as effective while coping with a combination of dreary weather and the Premier League club’s perceived former reliance on physical tactics.
Suarez is in no doubt, however, that Messi would take such conditions in his stride.
“Of course he could [perform],” he is quoted as saying in The Observer. “He’d pick up the ball, dribble past three players and hit it into the top corner.
“I’ve seen him seen him do it here in the rain, I’ve seen him do it in the midday sun. “He does it where he wants, when he wants. Messi’s unique. Put him in any team in the world and he’d be the best, just the same. And against English teams it usually goes OK for him.”
Messi and Barca head to England on Tuesday to face Manchester City in the Champions League, with the Catalans having run out comprehensive 4-0 winners when the sides met at Camp Nou on October 19.
The match will see Suarez return to City for the first time since departing the club in 2013 and he can already identify the changes Pep Guardiola has made in his short time there, though he feels they have a long way to go before they can be compared to Barcelona.
“Barca is a role model for every club: everyone wants to play like them,” the 22-year-old added. “Well, they can try.
“Barca hasn’t come about in two years. It’s years of building an identity, staying faithful to a philosophy, the kids in the academy playing like the first team. City will try to do that. I know, I was there.
“They showed me the project, everything they wanted to do. They have the structure and the ability. Now they’ve signed a coach who’ll help them do that.
“You can see that Pep’s giving young players a chance. When I was there it was a bit different, it was the more physical players who went up to the first team. It was about strength.
“The reserves played a more direct style, almost long ball forward, look for the second ball. When Attilio [Lombardo] took over we tried to play a little differently but things didn’t change much.
A new look for 2016, this is the Carin Jennings-Gabarra jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. April Heinrichs, Aly Wagner, Tiffeny Milbrett, Mia Hamm and Kristine Lilly. mallory pugh jersey away “The way the first team play now is magnificent; Pep’s changed the philosophy. They already played attacking football but now it’s more about possession, emphasising the importance of having the ball.”
British pundits have long used the ‘Stoke test’ as a comical marker by which to judge the ability of the world’s top players, musing whether they would still be as effective while coping with a combination of dreary weather and the Premier League club’s perceived former reliance on physical tactics.
Suarez is in no doubt, however, that Messi would take such conditions in his stride.
“Of course he could [perform],” he is quoted as saying in The Observer. “He’d pick up the ball, dribble past three players and hit it into the top corner.
“I’ve seen him seen him do it here in the rain, I’ve seen him do it in the midday sun. “He does it where he wants, when he wants. Messi’s unique. Put him in any team in the world and he’d be the best, just the same. And against English teams it usually goes OK for him.”
Messi and Barca head to England on Tuesday to face Manchester City in the Champions League, with the Catalans having run out comprehensive 4-0 winners when the sides met at Camp Nou on October 19.
The match will see Suarez return to City for the first time since departing the club in 2013 and he can already identify the changes Pep Guardiola has made in his short time there, though he feels they have a long way to go before they can be compared to Barcelona.
“Barca is a role model for every club: everyone wants to play like them,” the 22-year-old added. “Well, they can try.
“Barca hasn’t come about in two years. It’s years of building an identity, staying faithful to a philosophy, the kids in the academy playing like the first team. City will try to do that. I know, I was there.
“They showed me the project, everything they wanted to do. They have the structure and the ability. Now they’ve signed a coach who’ll help them do that.
“You can see that Pep’s giving young players a chance. When I was there it was a bit different, it was the more physical players who went up to the first team. It was about strength.
“The reserves played a more direct style, almost long ball forward, look for the second ball. When Attilio [Lombardo] took over we tried to play a little differently but things didn’t change much.
A new look for 2016, this is the Carin Jennings-Gabarra jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. April Heinrichs, Aly Wagner, Tiffeny Milbrett, Mia Hamm and Kristine Lilly. mallory pugh jersey away “The way the first team play now is magnificent; Pep’s changed the philosophy. They already played attacking football but now it’s more about possession, emphasising the importance of having the ball.”
Winning ugly no problem for Luis Enrique
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Barcelona head coach Luis Enrique was happy to win ugly after claiming a forgettable 1-0 triumph over Granada in LaLiga.
The defending champions are up to second in the standings behind Real Madrid after Rafinha scored the only goal of the game against Lucas Alcaraz’s men, who remain winless and rooted to the bottom of the table.
Barca lacked their usual fluency, with captain Andres Iniesta heading the list of injury absentees as Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar chalked up a rare collective failure in front of goal.
“We lacked freshness but it is always difficult to beat a team with 10 players behind the ball,” Luis Enrique told reporters, with attention now turning towards Tuesday’s Champions League trip to Manchester City.
“[Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre] Ter Stegen has not participated in the game but at 1-0 the match is open.
“I am happy with the three points. We are going in the right direction in LaLiga and in the Champions League but with the idea of improving.
“I will stick with the point, even though it was not our best day. I have seen a team with enough attitude to quickly retrieve the ball and one mature enough to close the match defensively. “I would have liked to win by a landslide but you cannot make that happen in all games.”
Rafinha now has five goals in six LaLiga appearances this season and Luis Enrique confirmed there is onus on him to get into the penalty area and support Barcelona’s celebrated attacking trio.
“I’m not surprised by his performance,” he added. “He’s having more success coming into the area from the second line, which is what we ask of the midfielders.
A new look for 2016, this is the April Heinrichs jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Aly Wagner, Mia Hamm, Michelle Akers, Kristine Lilly and Tiffeny Milbrett. christen press jersey away “You have three players up front who are unusual, but we ask this of the second line. They must keep coming.”
The defending champions are up to second in the standings behind Real Madrid after Rafinha scored the only goal of the game against Lucas Alcaraz’s men, who remain winless and rooted to the bottom of the table.
Barca lacked their usual fluency, with captain Andres Iniesta heading the list of injury absentees as Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar chalked up a rare collective failure in front of goal.
“We lacked freshness but it is always difficult to beat a team with 10 players behind the ball,” Luis Enrique told reporters, with attention now turning towards Tuesday’s Champions League trip to Manchester City.
“[Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre] Ter Stegen has not participated in the game but at 1-0 the match is open.
“I am happy with the three points. We are going in the right direction in LaLiga and in the Champions League but with the idea of improving.
“I will stick with the point, even though it was not our best day. I have seen a team with enough attitude to quickly retrieve the ball and one mature enough to close the match defensively. “I would have liked to win by a landslide but you cannot make that happen in all games.”
Rafinha now has five goals in six LaLiga appearances this season and Luis Enrique confirmed there is onus on him to get into the penalty area and support Barcelona’s celebrated attacking trio.
“I’m not surprised by his performance,” he added. “He’s having more success coming into the area from the second line, which is what we ask of the midfielders.
A new look for 2016, this is the April Heinrichs jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Aly Wagner, Mia Hamm, Michelle Akers, Kristine Lilly and Tiffeny Milbrett. christen press jersey away “You have three players up front who are unusual, but we ask this of the second line. They must keep coming.”
Barca were focused on dogged Granada, insists Sergi Roberto
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Sergi Roberto rejected suggestions Barcelona had one eye on Tuesday’s Champions League match against Manchester City after a laboured 1-0 win over Granada.
Rafinha’s fifth goal in six LaLiga appearances this season lifted the defending champions up to second in the table behind Real Madrid. But Barca failed to hit the heights for long periods, as front three Lionel Messi, Neymar and Luis Suarez drew a rare collective blank.
Neverthless, right-back Sergi Roberto was content with their control of the contest and felt the deep-lying defence fielded by Granada – still bottom of the league and without a win this season – presented its own problems. “The team were very focused on this game,” he told television reporters.
“We knew that next week we have a very important game but we were focused on this one. “Every game is a final for us, to get the three points is great.”
Granada have suffered 5-1 and 7-1 defeats against Las Palmas and Atletico Madrid respectively this term but proved more robust opponents at Camp Nou.
“We had a good game,” Sergi Roberto said. “We had them camped out in their own half and it was dificult to break them down. “We had some great chances to score and they didn’t shoot on goal. We dominated, could have had lots of goals but did not do that.
“If we had scored in the first half very quickly I think that the game would have been very different, but Granada were packed together and difficult to break down.
A new look for 2016, this is the Aly Wagner jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Mia Hamm, Kristine Lilly, Mallory Pugh, Tiffeny Milbrett and Michelle Akers. kelley o'hara jersey away “It is always difficult when a team is compact. I think the result was a good one.”
Rafinha’s fifth goal in six LaLiga appearances this season lifted the defending champions up to second in the table behind Real Madrid. But Barca failed to hit the heights for long periods, as front three Lionel Messi, Neymar and Luis Suarez drew a rare collective blank.
Neverthless, right-back Sergi Roberto was content with their control of the contest and felt the deep-lying defence fielded by Granada – still bottom of the league and without a win this season – presented its own problems. “The team were very focused on this game,” he told television reporters.
“We knew that next week we have a very important game but we were focused on this one. “Every game is a final for us, to get the three points is great.”
Granada have suffered 5-1 and 7-1 defeats against Las Palmas and Atletico Madrid respectively this term but proved more robust opponents at Camp Nou.
“We had a good game,” Sergi Roberto said. “We had them camped out in their own half and it was dificult to break them down. “We had some great chances to score and they didn’t shoot on goal. We dominated, could have had lots of goals but did not do that.
“If we had scored in the first half very quickly I think that the game would have been very different, but Granada were packed together and difficult to break down.
A new look for 2016, this is the Aly Wagner jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Mia Hamm, Kristine Lilly, Mallory Pugh, Tiffeny Milbrett and Michelle Akers. kelley o'hara jersey away “It is always difficult when a team is compact. I think the result was a good one.”
We will sort this defence out – Klopp
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Liverpool head coach Jurgen Klopp is adamant he will “sort the defence” after his backline were culpable for both Crystal Palace goals in a 4-2 Premier League win at Selhurst Park on Saturday.
James McArthur cancelled out Emre Can’s opener after latching on to a huge Dejan Lovren error, only for the Croatian to make amends a few moments later with a header that put Liverpool ahead.
McArthur equalised again just after the half-hour mark, though – Alberto Moreno in the firing line this time as he failed to close down Wilfried Zaha, whose cross teed up the former Wigan Athletic midfielder.
Further Liverpool goals from Joel Matip and Roberto Firmino ultimately sealed victory for Klopp’s men and the German is certain they will sharpen up at the other end.
“We will sort the defence and then, what happens [regarding a title challenge], we will see,” he told reporters. “They can defend really well, it’s normal and I know for this game that everybody will talk about this
“But inside a football team I think it’s not new. I don’t go into the dressing room and say ‘you are a really bad defender and you are the goalkeeper where are you?’
“They are all human beings. We work on it and I am completely convinced about the quality. If they make mistakes and stay in the game then it’s a very good test for them and they stayed.
“I’m happy with the reaction. Not with the situation, not with the start of the game, that’s what we have to work on. I’m fine, we will work on it and see where it leads us to.”
Palace manager Alan Pardew was rather more impressed with Liverpool, though, praising centre-backs Matip and Lovren for their performances, in spite of the latter’s early error.
“I know there was a mistake early on but I thought they [Matip and Lovren] were terrific today,” he added. “They took the challenge of Christian [Benteke], who had his hands full dealing with those two.
A new look for 2016, this is the Mia Hamm jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Kristine Lilly, Tiffeny Milbrett, Lindsey Horan, Michelle Akers and Mallory Pugh. becky sauerbrunn jersey away “I thought that was a really interesting battle because that’s an area Liverpool have not been as strong in, so I thought they played well today.”
James McArthur cancelled out Emre Can’s opener after latching on to a huge Dejan Lovren error, only for the Croatian to make amends a few moments later with a header that put Liverpool ahead.
McArthur equalised again just after the half-hour mark, though – Alberto Moreno in the firing line this time as he failed to close down Wilfried Zaha, whose cross teed up the former Wigan Athletic midfielder.
Further Liverpool goals from Joel Matip and Roberto Firmino ultimately sealed victory for Klopp’s men and the German is certain they will sharpen up at the other end.
“We will sort the defence and then, what happens [regarding a title challenge], we will see,” he told reporters. “They can defend really well, it’s normal and I know for this game that everybody will talk about this
“But inside a football team I think it’s not new. I don’t go into the dressing room and say ‘you are a really bad defender and you are the goalkeeper where are you?’
“They are all human beings. We work on it and I am completely convinced about the quality. If they make mistakes and stay in the game then it’s a very good test for them and they stayed.
“I’m happy with the reaction. Not with the situation, not with the start of the game, that’s what we have to work on. I’m fine, we will work on it and see where it leads us to.”
Palace manager Alan Pardew was rather more impressed with Liverpool, though, praising centre-backs Matip and Lovren for their performances, in spite of the latter’s early error.
“I know there was a mistake early on but I thought they [Matip and Lovren] were terrific today,” he added. “They took the challenge of Christian [Benteke], who had his hands full dealing with those two.
A new look for 2016, this is the Mia Hamm jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Kristine Lilly, Tiffeny Milbrett, Lindsey Horan, Michelle Akers and Mallory Pugh. becky sauerbrunn jersey away “I thought that was a really interesting battle because that’s an area Liverpool have not been as strong in, so I thought they played well today.”
Sanchez can get even better – Gibbs
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Kieran Gibbs has claimed Arsenal team-mate Alexis Sanchez can get even better after he scored his 50th goal for the club in their 4-1 win at Sunderland.
Arsene Wenger has deployed Sanchez in a central attacking role over recent weeks and his two strikes at the Stadium of Light took the Chilean’s club tally this season to eight.
Gibbs, who was recalled for the injured Nacho Monreal, says that Sanchez is getting the rewards his effort warrants. “Alexis obviously deserves everything he gets for the work that he puts in on the pitch and every day in training,” Gibbs told Arsenal’s official club website.
“He’s a world-class striker and with 50 goals for him, you feel like there’s only more to come.”
Olivier Giroud was also on the scoresheet twice against Sunderland in his Premier League return after spending more than a month on the sidelines.
A new look for 2016, this is the Kristine Lilly jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Tiffeny Milbrett, Michelle Akers, Gina Lewandowski, Mallory Pugh and Lindsey Horan. whitney engen jersey away “Credit to both of them in their own ways. Olivier’s just come back from injury, so he’s come in and shown how important he is for the team,” Gibbs said
Arsene Wenger has deployed Sanchez in a central attacking role over recent weeks and his two strikes at the Stadium of Light took the Chilean’s club tally this season to eight.
Gibbs, who was recalled for the injured Nacho Monreal, says that Sanchez is getting the rewards his effort warrants. “Alexis obviously deserves everything he gets for the work that he puts in on the pitch and every day in training,” Gibbs told Arsenal’s official club website.
“He’s a world-class striker and with 50 goals for him, you feel like there’s only more to come.”
Olivier Giroud was also on the scoresheet twice against Sunderland in his Premier League return after spending more than a month on the sidelines.
A new look for 2016, this is the Kristine Lilly jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Tiffeny Milbrett, Michelle Akers, Gina Lewandowski, Mallory Pugh and Lindsey Horan. whitney engen jersey away “Credit to both of them in their own ways. Olivier’s just come back from injury, so he’s come in and shown how important he is for the team,” Gibbs said
Juventus 2 Napoli 1: Higuain sinks former club
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Gonzalo Higuain scored the winner against former club Napoli as Juventus strengthened their grip at the top of Serie A with a 2-1 win at the Juventus Stadium.
Leonardo Bonucci had given the hosts the lead early in the second half before Jose Callejon swiftly levelled for the visitors, volleying home his seventh league goal of the season from close range. But on 70 minutes it was Higuain who took centre stage, driving a low shot into the bottom right corner to snap a four-match goal drought and further justify the €90million Juventus paid Napoli to secure his services.
Having shared a pre-match embrace with Napoli boss Maurizio Sarri, the Argentine was careful not to celebrate his goal, instead waving away his team-mates and walking back to the centre circle.
Massimiliano Allegri’s men had crushed Sampdoria in midweek, but they were forced to work far harder to down the third-placed visitors and secure a sixth straight home league win.
Sarri’s side had looked capable of ending a run of five successive away defeats against the Turin club, but were ultimately unable to force their way back into the game for a second time.
The first half gradually improved following a decidedly cagey opening, with Stephan Lichtsteiner wasting the home side’s first opportunity when he blazed wildly over after Pepe Reina had only managed to parry Alex Sandro’s deep cross from the left.
And five minutes later it was Juventus who threatened again, this time Vlad Chiriches producing a perfectly timed challenge to block Higuain, who had latched on to Sami Khedira’s fine ball into the box.
Napoli, whose fans were banned from attending in a bid to keep the peace, also mustered two efforts of note during the opening period, Allan drilling a low shot straight at Gianlugi Buffon from the edge of the box and Faouzi Ghoulam then curling a 25-yard free-kick over the bar.
In contrast to the first half, the second exploded into life almost immediately, with two goals arriving in the opening nine minutes. The first was claimed by Bonucci, who reacted quickest to Ghoulam’s sliced clearance as it looped back into the box and rifled a shot
into the roof of the net from 12 yards out.
But Napoli hit back just four minutes later as Callejon timed his run perfectly to meet Lorenzo Insigne’s chipped throughball and calmly volley past Buffon.
At that stage, the visitors looked set to claim a valuable point, but ultimately it was to be Higuain and Juventus’ night – the striker almost destined to have the final say following his acrimonious Napoli exit.
A new look for 2016, this is the Tiffeny Milbrett jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Michelle Akers, Mallory Pugh, Samantha Mewis, Lindsey Horan and Gina Lewandowski. crystal dunn jersey away The only negative for the hosts was the loss of influential defender Giorgio Chiellini, who limped from the fray with what looked like a hamstring injury just before half-time.
Leonardo Bonucci had given the hosts the lead early in the second half before Jose Callejon swiftly levelled for the visitors, volleying home his seventh league goal of the season from close range. But on 70 minutes it was Higuain who took centre stage, driving a low shot into the bottom right corner to snap a four-match goal drought and further justify the €90million Juventus paid Napoli to secure his services.
Having shared a pre-match embrace with Napoli boss Maurizio Sarri, the Argentine was careful not to celebrate his goal, instead waving away his team-mates and walking back to the centre circle.
Massimiliano Allegri’s men had crushed Sampdoria in midweek, but they were forced to work far harder to down the third-placed visitors and secure a sixth straight home league win.
Sarri’s side had looked capable of ending a run of five successive away defeats against the Turin club, but were ultimately unable to force their way back into the game for a second time.
The first half gradually improved following a decidedly cagey opening, with Stephan Lichtsteiner wasting the home side’s first opportunity when he blazed wildly over after Pepe Reina had only managed to parry Alex Sandro’s deep cross from the left.
And five minutes later it was Juventus who threatened again, this time Vlad Chiriches producing a perfectly timed challenge to block Higuain, who had latched on to Sami Khedira’s fine ball into the box.
Napoli, whose fans were banned from attending in a bid to keep the peace, also mustered two efforts of note during the opening period, Allan drilling a low shot straight at Gianlugi Buffon from the edge of the box and Faouzi Ghoulam then curling a 25-yard free-kick over the bar.
In contrast to the first half, the second exploded into life almost immediately, with two goals arriving in the opening nine minutes. The first was claimed by Bonucci, who reacted quickest to Ghoulam’s sliced clearance as it looped back into the box and rifled a shot
into the roof of the net from 12 yards out.
But Napoli hit back just four minutes later as Callejon timed his run perfectly to meet Lorenzo Insigne’s chipped throughball and calmly volley past Buffon.
At that stage, the visitors looked set to claim a valuable point, but ultimately it was to be Higuain and Juventus’ night – the striker almost destined to have the final say following his acrimonious Napoli exit.
A new look for 2016, this is the Tiffeny Milbrett jersey will be wearing as they compete for the trophy this summer. Michelle Akers, Mallory Pugh, Samantha Mewis, Lindsey Horan and Gina Lewandowski. crystal dunn jersey away The only negative for the hosts was the loss of influential defender Giorgio Chiellini, who limped from the fray with what looked like a hamstring injury just before half-time.
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