Chelsea are set to continue their summer spending by clinching the £23.5m signing of German striker Andre Schurrle from Bayern Leverkusen, according to the Daily Star.
Chelsea manager Roberto Di Matteo confirmed yesterday the European champions and FA Cup winners were aiming to bring in a forward before the transfer window closes at the end of the month. Despite losing experienced striker Didier Drogba – who joined Chinese club Shanghai Shenhua this summer – the Blues are going for the relatively inexperienced Schurrle to boost their attack. But at 21, the Bayer Leverkusen star has already been capped four times by Germany, scoring twice in qualifiers for Euro 2012. At the tournament he was handed the No.9 shirt, came on as a substitute in the group victory over Denmark and started the quarter-final win against Greece. With the Londoners going for a far more creative and adaptable approach this season, Schurrle – who can play as a forward or winger – fits the new blueprint as he has been acclaimed for his dribbling skills.
The Blues are also poised to confirm the signing of Marseille right-back Cesar Azpilicueta this week for around £7m. Following the departure of Jose Bosingwa, the 22-year-old Spaniard will provide competition for Branislav Ivanovic, who prefers to play in central defence.
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Experienced Liverpool midfielder Joe Cole has turned down the opportunity to play for Russian side Spartak Moscow, according to Sky Sports.
Liverpool were reportedly happy for the playmaker to discuss terms with Moscow however Cole has decided against a move away from Anfield on this occasion. Cole, 30, has never really held down a place at Liverpool since joining the Reds from Chelsea in 2010.
As a result he spent the season in the Ligue 1 playing for Lille where he had a successful season. However, Cole has spent much of the pre-season marred by injuries and it is thought that Brendan Rodgers will be looking to offload the winger elsewhere before the transfer window closes tonight.
Cole’s decision not to join Spartak Moscow may come as a surprise to some, who would offer the former England international a chance of European football this season. The Russian side have been drawn alongside Spanish giants Barcelona as well as Benfica and Celtic in Group G of the Champions League.
You can follow all the deadline day deals on our live blog right here
Jack Wilshere has returned to full training at Arsenal, with the midfielder looking to make his return to action soon.
The England star suffered a frustrating 2011-12 campaign, and has not played for the Emirates Stadium outfit since featuring in a friendly against New York Red Bulls in July 2011.
However, after rehabilitation the star is finally back training with his Gunners team-mates, which has come as great news to Arsene Wenger.
“We are so pleased that Jack is back in full training. It’s been 14 months and that’s a long time for someone at his age. It’s an eternity, but it’s great news,” Wenger told the club’s official website.
“We have to give him a few training sessions to see how he copes and responds to it. That’s the delicate, sensitive stage – to choose when to bring him in and out.
“We’ll have to handle that day-by-day,” the French coach concluded.
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Wilshere rushed back his return last season and suffered a recurrence of his initial cruciate injury and as such Arsenal will look to blood him back into action slowly.
Swansea lost for the third game running as Peter Crouch scored twice in the first half to end Stoke’s long wait for a Premier League win at the Britannia Stadium.
The Potters had gone 11 games without victory prior to today and their cause was helped by some slack defending from the away side as Crouch put Michael Laudrup’s team to the sword.
The Swans had enjoyed a storming start to the campaign banging in 10 goals in their first three games but have failed to score in their last top-flight three fixtures.
Tony Pulis ‘route one’ approach continues to see him come under fire but he will afford himself a wry smile as Stoke comfortably beat a side famed for their slick, pass and move philosophy. The hosts’ famed aerial prowess certainly proved useful in the 12th minute as Crouch found himself unmarked to head Glenn Whelan’s corner past Michael Vorm.
Stoke continued to dominate the first half as they lay siege to Vorm’s goal as a brittle Swansea defence struggled to cope with Crouch and the England striker profited again in the 35th minute. The former England striker needed two bites of the cherry to score after being setup by Jonathan Walters.
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Crouch then had the chance to complete his hat trick but headed Matthew Etherington’s cross over the bar as Pulis’ side saw out a comfortable victory in the second half with their lead rarely threatened by Swansea who will hoping their fortunes pick up next week when they host Reading at the Liberty Stadium.
Liverpool are lining up a surprise January move for Celtic striker Gary Hooper, according to TalkSport.
The 24-year-old striker has scored 110 goals in his last 195 games for both Scunthorpe and Celtic and his superb goal-scoring record has brought him to the attention of Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers.
The Reds only have one recognised striker at the club since Fabio Borini was ruled out of action for at least a few months after breaking his foot in training yesterday while on international duty with Italy U21’s.
The injury blow leaves Rodgers with a major selection headache with only Luis Suarez available to lead the line after he let Dirk Kuyt depart in the summer and sent Andy Carroll on-loan to West Ham for the season.
After missing out on Clint Dempsey and Italian legend Alessandro Del Piero on deadline day, the Anfield club will be looking to strengthen in January and Hooper could offer a cheaper alternative in attack.
Hooper moved to Celtic Park from Scunthorpe for £2.4m in 2010 but with his apparent unwillingness to sign a new contract he could be available at a cut-price this summer.
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The former Southend United player actually outscored £35m man Carroll while the two were featuring in the Championship during the 2009/10 season and given his fine form for Celtic there have been repeated calls for the Harlow-born striker to be given his first England cap.
In the short-term Rodgers may look to youngsters Adam Morgan and Daniel Pacheco to provide the goals but a swoop for the Celtic hot-shot is not out of the question when the transfer window reopens in January.
Manchester United’s recent injury problems have been well-documented; earning them the unwanted title of being the most injury-prone side in the Premier League.
But it is hoped that a brand new £25million state-of-the-art medical facility will help to put their recent injury woes to bed; and allow United to possess what will be one of the best facilities of its kind in world football.
It is part of a new five-year agreement with Toshiba Medical Systems, who will provide £12million worth of equipment to the club, along with the £13million which United are spending on the refurbishment of Carrington.
The new software will help to predict injuries before they happen, something which could prove to be vital in helping to avoid the seemingly ongoing injury crisis at Old Trafford.
The importance of this new facility surely cannot be emphasised enough, with the Red Devils suffering a total of 30 different injuries last season compared to Manchester City, who experienced just seven.
Much like the start of this season, United were hit particularly hard in defence; with Nemanja Vidic ruled out for half a season after damaging knee ligaments, while Rio Ferdinand and Johnny Evans also spent time out of action.
If this gap can be closed by the opening of a new medical centre, then it can only be a good thing; as Premier League clubs now need to spend millions of pounds to invest in injury prevention.
But one must question whether sports science alone can prevent this issue; especially as wear and tear on the muscles becomes inevitable with players taking part in more matches in increasingly shorter periods.
Other factors such as changing footwear and firmer pitches means the odd stray sliding tackle may no longer go with the flow of the turf, thereby increasing the likelihood of injuries in modern-day football.
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Injuries such as these are unavoidable, but brand new facilities will help to stop more long-term, deteriorating problems from developing further. Identifying injuries earlier will surely allow United to reap the rewards of their investment.
What to make of the 25-year-old born in Cape Verde, applying his trade for Manchester United and Portugal affectionately known as Nani. Often ranging from the sublime to the ridiculous, at times he can set the footballing world alight with flashes of brilliance. Fans often remember his superb goal against Liverpool at the beginning of his Manchester United career as a real indication of his ability.
Despite this, 2012 has been a really poor year for the winger. Following the mistake that ultimately contributed to United conceding a last minute equaliser in the Capital One Cup defeat to Chelsea last weekend, perhaps aptly for a Halloween night, Sir Alex Ferguson had his stake out ready in the post-match interview ready to condemn Nani’s horror show. His performance last Wednesday compounded what has been a pretty miserable season so far, primarily used as a bit-part player by the Red Devils boss. More Premier League substitute appearances than starts isn’t perhaps what he envisaged before the campaign kicked off, and a fourth substitute appearance of the season in a huge game like Arsenal demonstrates how far down he currently is in the pecking order.
Manchester United’s 2-1 win over Arsenal on Saturday featured two players who have become victims of their own contract situations. While Walcott’s performances haven’t warranted a Premier League start, it appears as if Sir Alex is likewise happy to leave Nani on the bench until he makes a decision on his future one way or the other. As well as his seeming mistreatment by Ferguson, I believe Nani receives a bad press all round.
I have not usually disliked Sir Alex Ferguson in the past, but his comments this season have been annoying to say the least. He had no right to stick his nose in Rio Ferdinand’s decision to not wear a Kick It Out t-shirt, he had no right to give his opinion on the FA’s enquiry into Mark Clattenburg’s alleged racist remark and when a manager should be defensive over their players, much like Pardew was of Cheick Tiote in the Wear-Tyne derby labelling the Ivorian as ‘part of the Newcastle family’, Ferguson was unfair to criticise Nani for a mistake which wouldn’t have prompted the same reaction had Paul Scholes made a similar error.
It didn’t help the Portuguese man who already seems a victim of torrents of media criticism and if we’re being honest isn’t exactly a fans’ favourite with the Manchester United faithful. It is interesting reading the Manchester United forums on the Nani situation. On the pitch much of his criticism has derided from him being an ‘unintelligent’ footballer. Several of the bloggers posted that they thought his “poor footballing brain” was down to being too instinctive and his poor execution.
I couldn’t disagree more. I think Nani is an intelligent footballer. When I’ve seen him play over the years I often think he has a good positional sense and this is exemplified by an impressive goal scoring record for a winger, which stands at 26 goals in 130 Premier League games. Additionally, many of us will remember well the goal that was given against Tottenham in October 2010 when Gomes thought they had earned a free kick for Nani to swoop in and tap the ball into an empty net. Whether people thought that Nani had cheated or not, one has to admire his assertiveness and knowledge of the rules in that situation where many had just dismissed it.
As well as a bad press, Nani is a victim of constantly striving to walk in the shadows of someone who is simply better than he is. In Cristiano Ronaldo, Nani has not only had to live up to the standards the Real Madrid player left at Manchester United, but when they take to the field for Portugal. It is the fact that both players are Portuguese and that Nani’s arrival at Old Trafford occurred when Ronaldo was at his peak, that the media touted him as ‘Ronaldo’s natural successor’. These parallels with Ronaldo have certainly contributed in tarnishing Nani’s career, almost like a son who tries to emulate in his world famous father’s footsteps. These comparisons have definitely taken their toll in Nani, and his criticism of Ronaldo for wanting all the glory amidst the confusion regarding the order the penalties were to be taken in following Portugal’s Euro 2012 exit, speaks volumes.
Needless to say, Nani has never reached the dizzy heights of Ronaldo. But his problems at Manchester United have also been compounded by another factor – the rise and rise of Antonio Valencia. The Ecuadorian has transformed himself from a highly rated youngster at Wigan to one of the continent’s most feared wingers, bypassing Nani in the United pecking order in the process. Valencia’s good form has made people stop and wonder why Nani has never performed at the same level.
Despite being frustrating in games, there are several reasons as to why Nani receives a bad press at Old Trafford. Aside from being a goal scorer to which I previously alluded to, he can be explosive and unpredictable and a genuine match-winner. I think that the term match-winner can only be applied otherwise to Robin van Persie, Antonio Valencia and Wayne Rooney at Manchester United. Speaking of Rooney, Nani also brings the best out of the England international. He created many assists for Rooney last season, and 12 in total, just one behind Antonio Valencia. Finally, he loves Manchester United and while some players, Arshavin comes to mind, give 60 per cent in a game, Nani always gives the proverbial ‘110%’ for his side.
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Also, his high level of performances have been over the course of five seasons. This in my opinion makes him a better player than Ashley Young in many ways as Young has had just one good season at the very top, and even then he displayed some mediocrity.
For all these reasons alone I think that the negative coverage Nani has been receiving is unfair, and perhaps we should appreciate the good work he has done for Manchester United rather than the criticisms he receives from his manager, the press and supporters alike.
talkSPORT are reporting that the race to sign Brazilian hot property Willian is between Tottenham and Chelsea, after Inter Milan have ruled out a move for the in form Shakhtar star.
Marco Branco, Inter’s Sporting Director told Sky Italia, “It’s not down to where we are in the table whether we will make signings in January, there are other factors to consider.
“At this moment in time, there is no way we will be investing in January for other reasons. It’s the same situation in many other industry sectors, we’re in an economic crisis.”
These comments are thought to reignite the interests at both White Hart Lane and Stamford Bridge, with both clubs short on strikers. While Tottenham have Jermain Defoe and out-of-form and out-of-favour Emmanuel Adebayor, Chelsea need cover or a replacement for Fernando Torres, who, once again, is failing to find the net consistently.
Both clubs expressed their interest in Willian over the summer but Shakhtar’s demands were too high and a move failed to materialise. However, impressive performances from the youngster in both the Ukrainian top flight and Champions League, now means both teams are set to fight it out in January.
It is thought that the Brazilian would be interested in a move to England but Premier League clubs may have to shell out upwards of £17 million for his services.
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Not have only the Lions been on a fantastic run of form, but there has also been a revival in the career of one player who might have thought his Millwall career was over, David Forde.
At the start of last season, Forde was number me, but first he had his injuries, so Steve Mildenhall came in. Forde came back in after regaining fitness however slowly but surely the performance levels dropped, to be fair to Fordey he has the potential to win you a match, but can also lose you points on his own, I’m sure ‘Wall fans won’t forget last seasons 2-2 draw at Brighton.Maik Taylor was brought in on loan last season, and did fantastically well and so was offered a one year deal, and was at the start of the season the number one goalie for Kenny Jackett. But when the results were not going well, one of the first things KJ changed was the ‘keeper, and Fordey had a second, and maybe last chance.Don’t get me wrong, I like Forde, to me he is a real ‘Wall player, a player who gives their all no matter what the cost, but it can only take you so far.When Forde was put back in the team, most people thought “Why oh why?”But six clean sheets in eight games (Before Ipswich), and he’s slowly but surely starting to turn some Lions fans his way.He seems a lot more assured in the box when coming for balls, his kicking has improved, and he still has his match winning qualities. At Blackburn before we scored, he made a couple off last gasp saves to keep us in front. Don’t get me wrong he still un-nerves me but you can’t deny he’s done well.I’ve also gotta put my hands up and give some praise to another player who thought he was left in the footballing wilderness, Danny N’Guessan.I thought he would’ve been long gone by now, but fair play to the bloke, he’s starting to push his way slowly back into the fold.I remember him coming on for the last 15 minutes against Leeds, when his name was announced there were cries of laughter and “Why?”… And a lot worse.But he has certainly had an effect in the last three games he came on in. He came on when it was 0-0 against Leeds and Wolves, and played a part in both winners in those games. And only an off the line clearance stopped him from getting a winner against Charlton.Seeing as besides Chris Taylor, we have no out and out left winger, maybe N’Guessan will be worth keeping after all…..It’s nice to have a starting XI all on form, but it’s nice to have “bit part” players such as N’Guessan playing their part.Lions fans, what do you think of the recent performances of Forde and N’Guessan ?COYL [ad_pod id=’writer-1′ align=’right’]
Andre Villas-Boas must be taking a long, deep breath of North London air as the harsh light of the press rears its ugly head from his path and turns towards another, perhaps more important issue at Tottenham and that is the future of Gareth Bale.
As Barcelona and Real Madrid come sniffing around the Welshman like a pack of hungry wolves ready to pounce on their prey, it is crucial that Spurs remain stalwart as they did with such longevity in the Luka Modric saga. For if the 23 year old follows in the footsteps of his former Spurs team mate, the lasting effects that it could have for Villas-Boas’ side might be irreversible.
Firstly, to lose Gareth Bale to one of the two Spanish giants will be essentially handing your greatest weapon over to a club that you are hoping to emulate. Daniel Levy wants his club in the Champions League again; there is no doubt about that. To see the Welsh prodigy work his way round defenders that are bearing the Spurs crest would be a bitter pill to swallow for fans. In order to become the best, you must hold on to your stars. This makes Spurs qualifying for the Champions League next season all the more important. Will a player the calibre of Gareth Bale want another season in the painfully dull Europa League when he could be guaranteed success at a club that is ready made for trophies?
A brief glance across London sees Spurs’ bitter rivals Arsenal, without a trophy in years and a relatively new team only beginning to connect efficiently. Over recent seasons, the Gunners have had a habit of letting their best players leave the club. Cesc Fabregas, Samir Nasri and Robin Van Persie have all searched for pastures new as the Emirates trophy cabinet remains firmly empty. Tottenham must be very careful that they do not follow in the footsteps of their foes. Luka Modric dazzled at White Hart Lane but left for Spain when Champions League football and trophy opportunities presented themselves. Now, with Gareth Bale teetering on the edge, Levy & co must remain strong willed and realise that the winger is an essential part of the future of the club. Besides, the replacements purchased through Luka Modric’s exodus hardly took the breath away. Clint Dempsey and Moussa Dembele are good players but are nowhere near the skill levels of the departed Croatian. Is this what will happen if Bale flies from the nest? £40 million on 5 or 6 very adequate players will not satisfy fans at The Lane.
So, how do Tottenham keep their star man from packing his bags and heading to sunny Spain? Well, as previously mentioned, Champions League qualification is imperative. Not only will this give Bale the European platform that he desires but will also attract a host of top footballers who are desperate to make a name for themselves in the biggest club competition on the continent.
Levy is no stranger to remaining stubborn; he held Luka Modric’s departure off for an entire season. This attitude must be taken with Bale, after all, he is contracted to Tottenham having only signed a new deal in June of this year. This stance would first of all, deter the Spanish giants from making insultingly undervalued bids and secondly would let Bale know how much he means to the club.
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While the January window creeps closer and closer, Tottenham will know that all eyes will be on their prized asset, especially those of Jose Mourinho, who is ready to make footballing mouth’s water with a Bale-Ronaldo partnership at the Bernabeu. If a genuine offer isn’t made this January, expect a nervous roller-coaster of a summer for Spurs fans as they find out the future of their star man. As long as Levy sees sense and doesn’t get hypnotised by the immediate financial benefit of selling Gareth Bale, the Welshman will hopefully be lighting up the Premier League for many years to come.