Bayern Munich coach Pep Guardiola admits he "can't be
bothered" answering constant questions concerning
speculation about English clubs with his current contract due
to expire in June.
Chelsea, whose manager Jose Mourinho is under severe
pressure, are the latest in a string of Premier League clubs
who have been linked to Guardiola recently by the UK media.
In past months, the Spaniard has been heavily linked to
Manchester City and even the Brazil and England national
team coaching jobs, but now he has had enough.
"The subject is always the same. I am not going to answer
them. I can't be bothered with it anymore," said Guardiola
when asked by reporters about the Chelsea rumours.
Bayern have a crunch German Cup second-round tie at
holders Wolfsburg on Tuesday, which is Guardiola's priority.
"Wolfsburg is more important. It's like a final for us and there
are far more important topics to talk about," added Guardiola,
who has won 19 trophies as a coach with Barcelona and
Bayern.
"Please, we are only in October! We still have seven months to
go and I need to win, win, win."
The Bavarian giants are peerless in the Bundesliga and are on
course to claim a record fourth straight German league title
next May.
Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has said he wants
to extend Guardiola's current contract as quickly as possible.
Club captain Philipp Lahm has already told Guardiola that the
team want him to stay, but, should the Spaniard leave, media
reports suggest Carlo Ancelotti has been approached as a
possible replacement.
Thursday, 29 October 2015
Mourinho calm about future after League Cup exit
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho declared that he would
"sleep well" despite seeing his team's wretched season
continue with a penalty shootout loss to Stoke City in the
League Cup.
Eden Hazard, symbol of Chelsea's early-season woes, was the
fall guy in Tuesday's fourth-round tie at the Britannia
Stadium.
Stoke goalkeeper Jack Butland saved the Belgian winger's
spot-kick to give the hosts a 5-4 shootout win after the game
had finished 1-1 following extra time.
With Chelsea 15th in the Premier League and out of the
League Cup, both of which they won last season, Mourinho
faces mounting speculation that he could be sacked, but
ahead of Saturday's home game with Liverpool, he said that
he was feeling calm.
"I have a day off tomorrow, a fantastic family, I can sleep well
every night," said Mourinho, whose side have already
succumbed to eight defeats in all competitions, including the
Community Shield.
"I'm going to enjoy my day and Thursday, it will be one more
day like I have had in the last 15 years of my life -- honest
and dedicated."
Chelsea's hierarchy gave Mourinho a public vote of confidence
following the recent home 3-1 defeat by Southampton, but he
said that he did not need more reassurances about his
position.
"I don't need it. I don't need more," he told his post-match
press conference.
He also hit out at newspaper reports that he has lost the
support of his players.
"Honestly, do you think they are not with me? That they didn't
give everything to win the game?" he said.
"That is really sad -- not sad for me, but sad for the players
-- and I think it is a lack of respect to the players, not to me.
"For me it would be a fantastic situation if the players are
against me. I could say we don't have results because the
players are against me."
Mourinho made only three changes to the team that had lost
2-1 in a stormy game at West Ham United on Saturday, which
left him facing a Football Association misconduct charge after
being sent to the stands at half-time.
He was also recently fined £50,000 ($76,560, 69,370 euros)
and given a suspended one-game stadium ban by the FA --
which he has appealed against -- for criticising the referee
after the loss to Southampton.
Chelsea made a bright start, but lost striker Diego Costa to a
rib injury in the 33rd minute following an earlier collision with
Butland.
Mourinho revealed afterwards that the Brazil-born Spain
striker had been taken to hospital.
Stoke went ahead in the 52nd minute when Jon Walters
slammed a shot in off the underside of the crossbar from the
edge of the box.
But Chelsea refused to accept defeat and equalised in the 91st
minute when Loic Remy, Costa's replacement, fired home
from close range after Kurt Zouma had flicked on Willian's
left-wing corner.
Stoke lost Phil Bardsley to a second yellow card moments
later, but although Chelsea failed to make their numerical
advantage count in extra time, Mourinho felt that his players
had sent a message to their critics.
"What the players did tonight (Tuesday) is face some people
that write and speak, and said: 'You are stupid'," he said.
"What some people write and say is really bad for the players.
Maybe they think my players are like them when they were
players. My players don't do that. They tried everything."
"sleep well" despite seeing his team's wretched season
continue with a penalty shootout loss to Stoke City in the
League Cup.
Eden Hazard, symbol of Chelsea's early-season woes, was the
fall guy in Tuesday's fourth-round tie at the Britannia
Stadium.
Stoke goalkeeper Jack Butland saved the Belgian winger's
spot-kick to give the hosts a 5-4 shootout win after the game
had finished 1-1 following extra time.
With Chelsea 15th in the Premier League and out of the
League Cup, both of which they won last season, Mourinho
faces mounting speculation that he could be sacked, but
ahead of Saturday's home game with Liverpool, he said that
he was feeling calm.
"I have a day off tomorrow, a fantastic family, I can sleep well
every night," said Mourinho, whose side have already
succumbed to eight defeats in all competitions, including the
Community Shield.
"I'm going to enjoy my day and Thursday, it will be one more
day like I have had in the last 15 years of my life -- honest
and dedicated."
Chelsea's hierarchy gave Mourinho a public vote of confidence
following the recent home 3-1 defeat by Southampton, but he
said that he did not need more reassurances about his
position.
"I don't need it. I don't need more," he told his post-match
press conference.
He also hit out at newspaper reports that he has lost the
support of his players.
"Honestly, do you think they are not with me? That they didn't
give everything to win the game?" he said.
"That is really sad -- not sad for me, but sad for the players
-- and I think it is a lack of respect to the players, not to me.
"For me it would be a fantastic situation if the players are
against me. I could say we don't have results because the
players are against me."
Mourinho made only three changes to the team that had lost
2-1 in a stormy game at West Ham United on Saturday, which
left him facing a Football Association misconduct charge after
being sent to the stands at half-time.
He was also recently fined £50,000 ($76,560, 69,370 euros)
and given a suspended one-game stadium ban by the FA --
which he has appealed against -- for criticising the referee
after the loss to Southampton.
Chelsea made a bright start, but lost striker Diego Costa to a
rib injury in the 33rd minute following an earlier collision with
Butland.
Mourinho revealed afterwards that the Brazil-born Spain
striker had been taken to hospital.
Stoke went ahead in the 52nd minute when Jon Walters
slammed a shot in off the underside of the crossbar from the
edge of the box.
But Chelsea refused to accept defeat and equalised in the 91st
minute when Loic Remy, Costa's replacement, fired home
from close range after Kurt Zouma had flicked on Willian's
left-wing corner.
Stoke lost Phil Bardsley to a second yellow card moments
later, but although Chelsea failed to make their numerical
advantage count in extra time, Mourinho felt that his players
had sent a message to their critics.
"What the players did tonight (Tuesday) is face some people
that write and speak, and said: 'You are stupid'," he said.
"What some people write and say is really bad for the players.
Maybe they think my players are like them when they were
players. My players don't do that. They tried everything."
Mourinho's job is SAFE at Chelsea... but maybe only for a fortnight
Chelseahave planned to reviewJose Mourinho's position during the
international break in two weeks' time as the Portuguese fights to
keep his job.Mourinho is under increasing pressure after Saturday's
2-1 defeat to West Ham left the Premier League champions 15th in the
table having lost five of their 10 league fixtures this season.The
former Real Madrid boss received a public vote of confidence last
month, when Blues owner Roman Abramovich decided to give his manager
until the two-week break in November to turn around the team's
fortunes.GAME OVER?Forget the title: Top four is out of reach for
ChelseaSome reports have suggested that Mourinho could be sacked if
Chelsea lose to Liverpool on Saturdaybut while patience is wearing
thin at Stamford Bridge, the 52-year-old is unlikely to leave the club
before the Premier League fixture away at Stoke on November 7.After
that game, Abramovich and the board are expected to reassess their
options with the club's chances of reaching the top four a prominent
factor in their decision. The Blues are already nine points behind
fourth-placed Manchester United.Preferred replacements such as Pep
Guardiola and Diego Simeone will not be available until next summer so
Chelsea would have to appoint an interim manager until the end of the
season.The Blues have four matches in the next two weeks in three
different competitions and Mourinho is under intense pressure despite
only signing a new four-year contract in August as a reward for last
season's title triumph.Mourinho was sent to the stands during the
defeat to West Ham and Chelsea chiefs have been stunned by the way the
52-year-old has appeared to unravel on and off the pitch.He
controversially axed club doctor Eva Carneiro and has further damaged
the club's image with constant rants against the referees, which have
been received badly in the boardroom at Stamford Bridge.Mourinho was
given his public vote of confidence after the home defeat to
Southampton on October 3 but has only guided the team to one win in
the three subsequent games - and that was against relegation battlers
Aston Villa.The Blues face Stoke in the League Cup on Tuesday before a
crucial home league fixture against Liverpool on Saturday. They take
on Dynamo Kyiv in the Champions League next week before the weekend
trip to Stoke, which could be Mourinho's final game in charge.
international break in two weeks' time as the Portuguese fights to
keep his job.Mourinho is under increasing pressure after Saturday's
2-1 defeat to West Ham left the Premier League champions 15th in the
table having lost five of their 10 league fixtures this season.The
former Real Madrid boss received a public vote of confidence last
month, when Blues owner Roman Abramovich decided to give his manager
until the two-week break in November to turn around the team's
fortunes.GAME OVER?Forget the title: Top four is out of reach for
ChelseaSome reports have suggested that Mourinho could be sacked if
Chelsea lose to Liverpool on Saturdaybut while patience is wearing
thin at Stamford Bridge, the 52-year-old is unlikely to leave the club
before the Premier League fixture away at Stoke on November 7.After
that game, Abramovich and the board are expected to reassess their
options with the club's chances of reaching the top four a prominent
factor in their decision. The Blues are already nine points behind
fourth-placed Manchester United.Preferred replacements such as Pep
Guardiola and Diego Simeone will not be available until next summer so
Chelsea would have to appoint an interim manager until the end of the
season.The Blues have four matches in the next two weeks in three
different competitions and Mourinho is under intense pressure despite
only signing a new four-year contract in August as a reward for last
season's title triumph.Mourinho was sent to the stands during the
defeat to West Ham and Chelsea chiefs have been stunned by the way the
52-year-old has appeared to unravel on and off the pitch.He
controversially axed club doctor Eva Carneiro and has further damaged
the club's image with constant rants against the referees, which have
been received badly in the boardroom at Stamford Bridge.Mourinho was
given his public vote of confidence after the home defeat to
Southampton on October 3 but has only guided the team to one win in
the three subsequent games - and that was against relegation battlers
Aston Villa.The Blues face Stoke in the League Cup on Tuesday before a
crucial home league fixture against Liverpool on Saturday. They take
on Dynamo Kyiv in the Champions League next week before the weekend
trip to Stoke, which could be Mourinho's final game in charge.
Iheanacho will only get better - Pellegrini
The Manchester City coach has tipped the 19-year-old to keep on
improving after impressing inthe 5-1 League Cup win over Crystal
PalaceManchester CitybossManuel PellegriniexpectsKelechi Iheanachoto
go from strength to strength after his starring role in the 5-1 League
Cup win over Crystal Palace.The 19-year-old put in a fine performance
as City eased into the last eight, his goal adding to strikes from
Wilfried Bony, Kevin De Bruyne, Yaya Toure and Manuel Garcia.Those
efforts were enough to secure a comfortable win over Palace, for whom
Damien Delaney grabbed an 89th-minute consolation.And Pellegrini
believes Iheanacho's display will prove a foundation for future
improvement."It was very important for him," said the boss in quotes
on the club's official Twitter account."He's not just a striker. I see
how he works every day. He will continue to improve."He's not just a
finisher. He always plays with his head up. He can play behind the
striker."City are the favourites to lift the trophy after Arsenal,
Chelsea and Manchester United exited this week.Yet Pellegrini is
refusing to look too far ahead, adding: "We're not thinking about the
final in February. We're thinking about Norwich on Saturday and then
Sevilla."One worry for Pellegrini was right-back Pablo Zabaleta being
stretchered off just after half timewith an apparent knee injury,
although the manager was unable to provide any form of update on the
Argentinian."We will see how he is tomorrow," Pellegrini said.
improving after impressing inthe 5-1 League Cup win over Crystal
PalaceManchester CitybossManuel PellegriniexpectsKelechi Iheanachoto
go from strength to strength after his starring role in the 5-1 League
Cup win over Crystal Palace.The 19-year-old put in a fine performance
as City eased into the last eight, his goal adding to strikes from
Wilfried Bony, Kevin De Bruyne, Yaya Toure and Manuel Garcia.Those
efforts were enough to secure a comfortable win over Palace, for whom
Damien Delaney grabbed an 89th-minute consolation.And Pellegrini
believes Iheanacho's display will prove a foundation for future
improvement."It was very important for him," said the boss in quotes
on the club's official Twitter account."He's not just a striker. I see
how he works every day. He will continue to improve."He's not just a
finisher. He always plays with his head up. He can play behind the
striker."City are the favourites to lift the trophy after Arsenal,
Chelsea and Manchester United exited this week.Yet Pellegrini is
refusing to look too far ahead, adding: "We're not thinking about the
final in February. We're thinking about Norwich on Saturday and then
Sevilla."One worry for Pellegrini was right-back Pablo Zabaleta being
stretchered off just after half timewith an apparent knee injury,
although the manager was unable to provide any form of update on the
Argentinian."We will see how he is tomorrow," Pellegrini said.
Nigeria U17 6-0 Australia U17: Osimhen’s treble sends Eaglets to quarter final
The red-hot striker scored thrice as goals from Nwakali, Essien and
Chukwueze combined to decimate Tony Vidmar's boysNigeria reached the
Fifa U17 World Cup quarter finals after annihiliating Australia 6-0 in
their second round game in Vina Del Mar on Thursday morning.Complete
with the presence of Funsho Bamgboye and Udochukwu Anumudu who missed
out of the Golden Eaglets' last group game owing to cards suspension,
the Joeys were torn apart bythe ruthless Nigerians at the Estadio
Sausalito.Victor Osimhen bagged a hat trick and is now the outright
leading scorer in the competition with seven goals from four games as
Emmanuel Amuneke's lads scored twice in the first half, then added
four in the second half to set up a last four encounter against Brazil
in Vina Del Mar on Sunday.Osimhenset the ball rolling with his fifth
of the tournament in the 22nd minute by bursting forward with pace and
power on the left, before turning his defender and sliding the ball
past goalkeeper Duro Dragicevic.Australia had no answer to Nigeria's
passing and movement asKelechi Nwakaliscored the second from the
penalty spot four minutes later after Bamgboye was brought down in the
box recklessly by two onrushing defenders.However, Cameron Joice
almost pulled a goal back for the Joeys, but failed to convert on a
miserable night for the Australians.In the second half, the Auusies
looked incoherent as they gave the ball away far too easily, while
Nigeria were playing with a swagger and got their third
throughOsimhenin the 73rd minute as he pounced on a cross which
Dragicevic had failed to clear.The lanky 16-year-old striker completed
his hat trick six minutes later when he pushed aside the Aussie
defender and shot into the roof of the net past the hapless
goalkeeper.Tony Vidmar's lads were stunned, but far worse was to come
as the Eaglets capitalized on more shambolic defending to score two
more goals before the end of the game.First, substituteEssienwas on
hand to head home from close range beforeChukwueze's missile completed
the rout against the side who came into the game with the ambition of
breaking their jinx against the defending champions.Nigeria were a
class apart and the Aussie fans sportingly applauded as they became
the first team to score six goals in a Fifa U17 World Cup knock out
phase as they attempt to win the trophy for the fifth time.The Golden
Eaglets, who have now scored 14 goals, have set up a date with Brazil
in the quarter finals on Sunday.
Chukwueze combined to decimate Tony Vidmar's boysNigeria reached the
Fifa U17 World Cup quarter finals after annihiliating Australia 6-0 in
their second round game in Vina Del Mar on Thursday morning.Complete
with the presence of Funsho Bamgboye and Udochukwu Anumudu who missed
out of the Golden Eaglets' last group game owing to cards suspension,
the Joeys were torn apart bythe ruthless Nigerians at the Estadio
Sausalito.Victor Osimhen bagged a hat trick and is now the outright
leading scorer in the competition with seven goals from four games as
Emmanuel Amuneke's lads scored twice in the first half, then added
four in the second half to set up a last four encounter against Brazil
in Vina Del Mar on Sunday.Osimhenset the ball rolling with his fifth
of the tournament in the 22nd minute by bursting forward with pace and
power on the left, before turning his defender and sliding the ball
past goalkeeper Duro Dragicevic.Australia had no answer to Nigeria's
passing and movement asKelechi Nwakaliscored the second from the
penalty spot four minutes later after Bamgboye was brought down in the
box recklessly by two onrushing defenders.However, Cameron Joice
almost pulled a goal back for the Joeys, but failed to convert on a
miserable night for the Australians.In the second half, the Auusies
looked incoherent as they gave the ball away far too easily, while
Nigeria were playing with a swagger and got their third
throughOsimhenin the 73rd minute as he pounced on a cross which
Dragicevic had failed to clear.The lanky 16-year-old striker completed
his hat trick six minutes later when he pushed aside the Aussie
defender and shot into the roof of the net past the hapless
goalkeeper.Tony Vidmar's lads were stunned, but far worse was to come
as the Eaglets capitalized on more shambolic defending to score two
more goals before the end of the game.First, substituteEssienwas on
hand to head home from close range beforeChukwueze's missile completed
the rout against the side who came into the game with the ambition of
breaking their jinx against the defending champions.Nigeria were a
class apart and the Aussie fans sportingly applauded as they became
the first team to score six goals in a Fifa U17 World Cup knock out
phase as they attempt to win the trophy for the fifth time.The Golden
Eaglets, who have now scored 14 goals, have set up a date with Brazil
in the quarter finals on Sunday.
Friday, 9 October 2015
LEOPARDS DEFEAT OLISEH EAGLES
Two first half goals by the Leopards consigned Sunday
Oliseh to his first defeat in charge of the senior national
team
Nigeria bowed 2-0 to DR Congo in an international friendly
played at the Stade de la Cité de l'Oie, Visé on Thursday
evening.
Goals from Dieumerci Mbokani and Jordan Nkololo were
all the Leopards needed to cage the Eagles who put up a
lackadaisical display.
Mbokani turned home Nkolo's pass after the Super Eagles
was breeched with goalkeeper trying in vain to rescue the
ball from sailing across the goal line.
Sunday Oliseh's men reacted quickly reacted well to
conceding so early and should have levelled on three
occasions as Ahmed Musa and Mikel Obi both missed
good chances.
Mikel fired two shots straight at Parfait Mandanda and
Musa failed to react to a Odion Ighalo's pass that had
evaded a host of players inside the penalty area.
Florent Ibengé's side controlled the majority of the half
with neat passing and fluid movement, and their efforts
resulted to another goal when Nkololo fired past Ikeme
having profited from another moment of carelessness from
the Eagles' backline.
Odion Ighalo– who had been quiet in the first half – went
close to getting his second international strike with
Nigeria's best sight of goal. His effort was waved away by
Mandanda who had earlier thumped away Ogenyi Onazi's
freekick after Mikel Obi was fouled near the goal area of
the Congolese.
Oliseh made a host of changes to the side in the second
half, especially handing Alex Iwobi his debut appearance
but that did not help matter as the Leopards dominated
every department of the game.
Nigeria face Cameroon on Sunday as they would be
seeking for redemption after an awful display in Vise.
Oliseh to his first defeat in charge of the senior national
team
Nigeria bowed 2-0 to DR Congo in an international friendly
played at the Stade de la Cité de l'Oie, Visé on Thursday
evening.
Goals from Dieumerci Mbokani and Jordan Nkololo were
all the Leopards needed to cage the Eagles who put up a
lackadaisical display.
Mbokani turned home Nkolo's pass after the Super Eagles
was breeched with goalkeeper trying in vain to rescue the
ball from sailing across the goal line.
Sunday Oliseh's men reacted quickly reacted well to
conceding so early and should have levelled on three
occasions as Ahmed Musa and Mikel Obi both missed
good chances.
Mikel fired two shots straight at Parfait Mandanda and
Musa failed to react to a Odion Ighalo's pass that had
evaded a host of players inside the penalty area.
Florent Ibengé's side controlled the majority of the half
with neat passing and fluid movement, and their efforts
resulted to another goal when Nkololo fired past Ikeme
having profited from another moment of carelessness from
the Eagles' backline.
Odion Ighalo– who had been quiet in the first half – went
close to getting his second international strike with
Nigeria's best sight of goal. His effort was waved away by
Mandanda who had earlier thumped away Ogenyi Onazi's
freekick after Mikel Obi was fouled near the goal area of
the Congolese.
Oliseh made a host of changes to the side in the second
half, especially handing Alex Iwobi his debut appearance
but that did not help matter as the Leopards dominated
every department of the game.
Nigeria face Cameroon on Sunday as they would be
seeking for redemption after an awful display in Vise.
Mourinho replies to Capello, says Chelsea will get out of rut
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has hit back at criticism
levelled by Fabio Capello and said he is determined to lift the
Blues out of the rut that has seen them slump to the lower
reaches of the Premier League.
Chelsea are currently two places above the relegation zone
after losing four and winning only two of their first eight
league games.
Their worst start to a season in 37 years has prompted
criticism of Mourinho's methods, with Capello notably
claiming the Portuguese coach "burns out his players" after
two seasons.
Mourinho, speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport on Thursday,
admitted he "can't hide the reality" of Chelsea's dire straits
but took exception to Capello's assessment of his leadership
methods.
"I read what Capello said," Mourinho told the Italian sports
daily on Thursday.
"I think a coach with his kind of past should be talking about
football and not commenting on the work of colleagues."
Capello, who was sacked by the Russian football federation in
the summer after a string of disappointing results, claimed
Mourinho was guilty of the same pattern of behaviour at
Chelsea as he was while in charge at Real Madrid.
"Mourinho burns out his players after a year and a half, at
most two years," Capello told Gazzetta recently.
"I had already heard it when he was in Madrid and now we
have confirmation in London."
Mourinho added: "I could have commented on his (Capello)
job as coach for England or the Russian one, and I never did,
because I prefer to respect the negative moments of my
colleagues.
"I like hearing about Fabio Capello in the many beautiful
moments of his career, which has been full of extraordinary
success."
Embattled Mourinho said he could not explain Chelsea's
recent run of poor results, but, having earned the recent
backing of club bosses, said he was determined to stop the
rot.
Asked what had led to Chelsea's recent dip in form, he told
the sports daily: "I don't know, the results with Chelsea are
negative at the moment. I can't hide the reality. And I struggle
to find an explanation.
"But I assure you: we're working harder than we've ever
worked before and we'll get out of this. And we're not giving
up on the Champions League either."
Mourinho added that club owner Roman Abramovich's
backing in Chelsea's current time of crisis has been crucial.
"That makes me proud. It demonstrates the faith of
Abramovich for a coach who has won three Premier League
titles with this club. I want to thank him."
levelled by Fabio Capello and said he is determined to lift the
Blues out of the rut that has seen them slump to the lower
reaches of the Premier League.
Chelsea are currently two places above the relegation zone
after losing four and winning only two of their first eight
league games.
Their worst start to a season in 37 years has prompted
criticism of Mourinho's methods, with Capello notably
claiming the Portuguese coach "burns out his players" after
two seasons.
Mourinho, speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport on Thursday,
admitted he "can't hide the reality" of Chelsea's dire straits
but took exception to Capello's assessment of his leadership
methods.
"I read what Capello said," Mourinho told the Italian sports
daily on Thursday.
"I think a coach with his kind of past should be talking about
football and not commenting on the work of colleagues."
Capello, who was sacked by the Russian football federation in
the summer after a string of disappointing results, claimed
Mourinho was guilty of the same pattern of behaviour at
Chelsea as he was while in charge at Real Madrid.
"Mourinho burns out his players after a year and a half, at
most two years," Capello told Gazzetta recently.
"I had already heard it when he was in Madrid and now we
have confirmation in London."
Mourinho added: "I could have commented on his (Capello)
job as coach for England or the Russian one, and I never did,
because I prefer to respect the negative moments of my
colleagues.
"I like hearing about Fabio Capello in the many beautiful
moments of his career, which has been full of extraordinary
success."
Embattled Mourinho said he could not explain Chelsea's
recent run of poor results, but, having earned the recent
backing of club bosses, said he was determined to stop the
rot.
Asked what had led to Chelsea's recent dip in form, he told
the sports daily: "I don't know, the results with Chelsea are
negative at the moment. I can't hide the reality. And I struggle
to find an explanation.
"But I assure you: we're working harder than we've ever
worked before and we'll get out of this. And we're not giving
up on the Champions League either."
Mourinho added that club owner Roman Abramovich's
backing in Chelsea's current time of crisis has been crucial.
"That makes me proud. It demonstrates the faith of
Abramovich for a coach who has won three Premier League
titles with this club. I want to thank him."
Official: Klopp named new Liverpool manager
Liverpoolhave confirmed the appointment ofJurgen Kloppas their new
manager.The 48-year-old boarded a private plane from Dortmund to John
Lennon Airport on Thursday afternoon,before formalising proceedings at
Hope Street Hotel in the evening and signing a three-year deal.Klopp's
contract is thought to beworth around £7 million a year, with his
official unveiling to take place at Anfield on Friday at
10.00GMT.Zeljko Buvac and Peter Krawietz are expected to be confirmed
as part of Klopp's backroom team, with the Merseyside club having
already announced the departures of Sean O'Driscoll, Glen Driscoll and
Chris Davies. Gary McAllister is no longer involved with first-team
coaching, but will remain at Liverpool in an ambassadorial role.The
former Borussia Dortmund manager was targeted following the dismissal
of Brendan Rodgers, who paid the price for Liverpool's poor start to
the new campaign.The Reds won just three of their first eight Premier
League games and have struggled in cup competitions, drawing against
Bordeaux and Sion in the Europa League and needing penalties to
overcome League Two's Carlisle in the League Cup.Rodgers had been
under pressure since finishing sixth last season and losing the FA Cup
semi-final to Aston Villa, with Liverpool owners Fenway Sports Group
(FSG) already sounding out Klopp in the summer, though he initially
spurned their advances.KLOPP FOR THE KOP: What Liverpool can
expectKlopp was keen to take a break from football but is now ready to
return to management, and has been persuaded to take over at Anfield
after a week of talks with FSG.Klopp has always been attracted to the
Premier League and is particularly excited by the prospect of managing
a club steeped in as much history as Liverpool, having done a similar
revival job at Dortmund.The former Mainz player and coach took over at
Signal Iduna Park in 2008 with the club struggling in the Bundesliga,
but guided the once ailing club to the title in just his third
season.He followed up that triumph with a second consecutive title
win, puncturing Bayern Munich's dominance, before guiding BVB to the
Champions League final at Wembley in 2013, wheredie Rotenwon in extra
time.
manager.The 48-year-old boarded a private plane from Dortmund to John
Lennon Airport on Thursday afternoon,before formalising proceedings at
Hope Street Hotel in the evening and signing a three-year deal.Klopp's
contract is thought to beworth around £7 million a year, with his
official unveiling to take place at Anfield on Friday at
10.00GMT.Zeljko Buvac and Peter Krawietz are expected to be confirmed
as part of Klopp's backroom team, with the Merseyside club having
already announced the departures of Sean O'Driscoll, Glen Driscoll and
Chris Davies. Gary McAllister is no longer involved with first-team
coaching, but will remain at Liverpool in an ambassadorial role.The
former Borussia Dortmund manager was targeted following the dismissal
of Brendan Rodgers, who paid the price for Liverpool's poor start to
the new campaign.The Reds won just three of their first eight Premier
League games and have struggled in cup competitions, drawing against
Bordeaux and Sion in the Europa League and needing penalties to
overcome League Two's Carlisle in the League Cup.Rodgers had been
under pressure since finishing sixth last season and losing the FA Cup
semi-final to Aston Villa, with Liverpool owners Fenway Sports Group
(FSG) already sounding out Klopp in the summer, though he initially
spurned their advances.KLOPP FOR THE KOP: What Liverpool can
expectKlopp was keen to take a break from football but is now ready to
return to management, and has been persuaded to take over at Anfield
after a week of talks with FSG.Klopp has always been attracted to the
Premier League and is particularly excited by the prospect of managing
a club steeped in as much history as Liverpool, having done a similar
revival job at Dortmund.The former Mainz player and coach took over at
Signal Iduna Park in 2008 with the club struggling in the Bundesliga,
but guided the once ailing club to the title in just his third
season.He followed up that triumph with a second consecutive title
win, puncturing Bayern Munich's dominance, before guiding BVB to the
Champions League final at Wembley in 2013, wheredie Rotenwon in extra
time.
Lewandowski's at it AGAIN! Bayern star scores FOURTEENTH goal in five games
Robert Lewandowski's remarkable scoring form continued on Thursday
evening at Hampden Park, where he was on target forPolandin 2-2 draw
withScotland.The striker found the net with fewer than three minutes
on the clock in Glasgow, bursting onto a tremendous defence-splitting
pass from Arkadiusz Milik to slide the ball past David Marshall at his
near post. With the Poles potentially heading out of the competition,
Lewandowski then scrambled home to score with literally the last kick
of the game.Bayern Munich's centre forward has been on a superb run of
form in front of goal lately, starting with his remarkable five-goal
haul against Wolfsburg, which came in only nine minutes. The Pole
followed that up with doubles against Mainz and Dortmund in the
Bundesliga, while he bagged a hat-trick against Dinamo Zagreb in the
Champions League.
evening at Hampden Park, where he was on target forPolandin 2-2 draw
withScotland.The striker found the net with fewer than three minutes
on the clock in Glasgow, bursting onto a tremendous defence-splitting
pass from Arkadiusz Milik to slide the ball past David Marshall at his
near post. With the Poles potentially heading out of the competition,
Lewandowski then scrambled home to score with literally the last kick
of the game.Bayern Munich's centre forward has been on a superb run of
form in front of goal lately, starting with his remarkable five-goal
haul against Wolfsburg, which came in only nine minutes. The Pole
followed that up with doubles against Mainz and Dortmund in the
Bundesliga, while he bagged a hat-trick against Dinamo Zagreb in the
Champions League.
Wednesday, 7 October 2015
10 Players Chelsea Must Drop
1.Branislav Ivanovic- Shocking selection, I know. Last season he was a
defensive wonder of the football world. A giant boulder who had
stamina and guile to operate as a wingback and striker's instincts in
set pieces. The transformation to the sorry state he is suffering now
was not wholly unexpected, but the speedwith which it happened is what
is surprising.Chelseahave a policy of not holding on to players past
the age of 30, but Mourinho was adamant to keep him, rewarding himwith
vice-captainship. If you ask anybody who knows anything aboutthe EPL,
they'll almost certainly say Ivanovic should be the first to go.2.
Cesc Fabregas- Imagine you have to buy a new car that can take the
wife and the kids around. It is a car that needs to be reliable, and
youhave enough money to buy it because you are a Russian oil mogul. So
you choose to buy an AlfaRomeo from 1992. It surely must be a great
purchase! It had its glory days in the past, it has excellent
reputation, and it has wonderful flair. But it's an Alfa. And it's way
past its due date. After a one year romance it begins to disappoint
you.But it's your only car, so you suffer insilence, and remain
indignant about your investment. That is basically what Fabregas is. A
lackluster burden that Jose Mourinho chooses to keep playing, despite
him being completely impotent in every aspect of the game. The marquee
signing oflast year with the great assists has become complacent and
lazy. No pace, no defensive determination, nocreative effect. Time to
sell the Alfa. ToTurkey. Or MLS.3.Ramires- After a long battle with
injury, Ramires returned to the squad and Jose was delighted that he
"had his Ramires back." A definitive box-to-box player with
goalscoring abilities coupled with tackling back with aplomb. He hit a
howitzer against Newcastle, and as great as it was, I'd happily accept
that as a final contribution of his career in London. He was woeful
against Southampton, and the Brazilian was supposed to continue his
super-sub magic from Tyneside but failed horribly, in the most
important part of the pitch, next to the least appropriate defensive
midfielder, Fabregas.4.John Terry- Chelsea's leader, legend, and
liability. He is so committed to the club and to playingfor them as
exemplified by the embarrassing tag-along at the Champions League
final in 2012, appearing in full kit at the final whistle despite
being banned for the match. He was a stalwart last year, his
positional sense and anticipation was second to none. In the entirety
of the season he had TWO yellow cards. He got one in the first match
of this year againstSwanseafor protesting. And obviously screwed the
pooch against West Brom with a sending off. Controversial and almost
universally hated, nationally hated for sure, John Terry is a mixed
bag of good and bad. Again, I think the ride is over for him, but he
can still be useful. In the backroom, and at Cobham. Once a new center
back is bought, Jose should have "the talk" with John and say he can
either bring a neck pillow to the bench for the games, or go out
gracefully and immediately to take a background role, still teaching
the youngsters and giving coaching advice. Like they say, "Those who
cant do, teach."5.John Obi Mikel- This one is a mercy killing. He was
inches away from a move to Turkey that would have seen him get regular
playing time. A chance to play while he's still relatively young, and
a chance to express himself in ways to make Chelsea regret keeping him
in reserve for so many years. It's such a sad story of John Obi Mikel,
a dedicated, dutiful servant to the club.The man who carved out a new
temporal part of games known as "John Obi Mikel Time," when the game
needs to be shut down, usually with the win in the bag. If Abramovich
let Čech go because he earned it from his service, the same should
apply to Mikel. I think Andreas Christensen from the youth squad would
make a great successor. Just don't let him go toArsenal, he doesn't
deserve to be reviled by the Chelsea faithful.6.Loïc Remy- Ugh… I
just-… There's no reason wh-… He's so-… Just get rid of him.7. Pedro-
Playing fourth fiddle toBarcelona's front line has Pedro dealing with
repressed feelings of discontent like a man in a midlife crisis. He is
trying to make up for lost time on the bench inSpainby trying to be
the Messi of Chelsea. 28 years old, Pedrito is tired of being treated
like a kid and as a sideshow. He is snatching at shots and dawdling on
the ball with desperate faith in his impressive displays of
footballing grace. I was blown awaywith his contributions at West
Brom, a goal and an assist on a debut is a remarkable thing. His goal
was a sort of frustrated expression at Chelsea's wastefulness. Like he
wassaying, "Okay, guys. It's been twenty minutes. Let's get this show
on the road." He took the onus on himself, running through defenders
with a point to prove, and scuffing the ball into the corner. Since
then he has failed to impress. Being caught in possession, scoring
rugby tries instead of football goals, and generally displaying
symptoms of the Chelsea Plague that the rest of the squad is suffering
from. I don't think he should be sold, but he should be given a good,
hard shake, and snapped back to reality.8. Ruben Loftus-Cheek- "Drop"
is the wrong word, but "loan" is almost certainly the best course of
action fora midfielder with so much promise. Ross Barkley isn't much
older than RLC, and he is a starter for Everton, with fantastic
displays of passing range and creativity. He had to provehimself as a
younger player, but that is predicated on the manager at least
selecting him. RLC isn't gettinga look into the first team, and many
Chelsea fans see him as our savior as a fresh injection into midfield.
This lack of involvement looks to be endemic of the type of treatment
poor Obi Mikel has suffered. Either play him or loan him out to a team
where he can make an impact, Jose. He has potential not seen every
day.9. Falcao- Every hedge fund and asset manager in the world must be
equal parts jealous and impressed by Monaco for making a profit off of
a depreciating asset. He made astounding amounts of money at Man Utd,
and although he is making half the amount at Chelsea, the French
Riviera club are enjoying their cigars and martinis with a little more
relish knowing his utter failure as a footballer grates no skin off
their back. When Mourinho spoke out about how he was willing to
takethe Colombian under his wing, I bet Monaco was more than happy to
dump their lemon on him. Passing on the buy-option, he's just another
wart on the face of Chelsea that'll be gone soon. Here's to hoping the
blemish doesn't become septic.10. Diego Costa- Oh, Diego. How welove
you. We chant your name at away matches where you aren't even on the
bench. We chant your name at will, because you make us happy. You are
the quintessential bad guy who we root for. But the cost you bring
with the occasional goal is far too high. Dribbling in from the left
wing always ends in failure. Your hold-up play leads to naught. And
you punch too many people in the face too often. You have forced
Chelsea fans to defend you and the image you project on us by
association. You are no altar boy,you said it yourself, but being an
effective striker does not entail beinga sociopathic one. A great
finisher with height and strength is a wonderful asset. A violent,
ineffective, sluggish, and selfish player is a millstone.
defensive wonder of the football world. A giant boulder who had
stamina and guile to operate as a wingback and striker's instincts in
set pieces. The transformation to the sorry state he is suffering now
was not wholly unexpected, but the speedwith which it happened is what
is surprising.Chelseahave a policy of not holding on to players past
the age of 30, but Mourinho was adamant to keep him, rewarding himwith
vice-captainship. If you ask anybody who knows anything aboutthe EPL,
they'll almost certainly say Ivanovic should be the first to go.2.
Cesc Fabregas- Imagine you have to buy a new car that can take the
wife and the kids around. It is a car that needs to be reliable, and
youhave enough money to buy it because you are a Russian oil mogul. So
you choose to buy an AlfaRomeo from 1992. It surely must be a great
purchase! It had its glory days in the past, it has excellent
reputation, and it has wonderful flair. But it's an Alfa. And it's way
past its due date. After a one year romance it begins to disappoint
you.But it's your only car, so you suffer insilence, and remain
indignant about your investment. That is basically what Fabregas is. A
lackluster burden that Jose Mourinho chooses to keep playing, despite
him being completely impotent in every aspect of the game. The marquee
signing oflast year with the great assists has become complacent and
lazy. No pace, no defensive determination, nocreative effect. Time to
sell the Alfa. ToTurkey. Or MLS.3.Ramires- After a long battle with
injury, Ramires returned to the squad and Jose was delighted that he
"had his Ramires back." A definitive box-to-box player with
goalscoring abilities coupled with tackling back with aplomb. He hit a
howitzer against Newcastle, and as great as it was, I'd happily accept
that as a final contribution of his career in London. He was woeful
against Southampton, and the Brazilian was supposed to continue his
super-sub magic from Tyneside but failed horribly, in the most
important part of the pitch, next to the least appropriate defensive
midfielder, Fabregas.4.John Terry- Chelsea's leader, legend, and
liability. He is so committed to the club and to playingfor them as
exemplified by the embarrassing tag-along at the Champions League
final in 2012, appearing in full kit at the final whistle despite
being banned for the match. He was a stalwart last year, his
positional sense and anticipation was second to none. In the entirety
of the season he had TWO yellow cards. He got one in the first match
of this year againstSwanseafor protesting. And obviously screwed the
pooch against West Brom with a sending off. Controversial and almost
universally hated, nationally hated for sure, John Terry is a mixed
bag of good and bad. Again, I think the ride is over for him, but he
can still be useful. In the backroom, and at Cobham. Once a new center
back is bought, Jose should have "the talk" with John and say he can
either bring a neck pillow to the bench for the games, or go out
gracefully and immediately to take a background role, still teaching
the youngsters and giving coaching advice. Like they say, "Those who
cant do, teach."5.John Obi Mikel- This one is a mercy killing. He was
inches away from a move to Turkey that would have seen him get regular
playing time. A chance to play while he's still relatively young, and
a chance to express himself in ways to make Chelsea regret keeping him
in reserve for so many years. It's such a sad story of John Obi Mikel,
a dedicated, dutiful servant to the club.The man who carved out a new
temporal part of games known as "John Obi Mikel Time," when the game
needs to be shut down, usually with the win in the bag. If Abramovich
let Čech go because he earned it from his service, the same should
apply to Mikel. I think Andreas Christensen from the youth squad would
make a great successor. Just don't let him go toArsenal, he doesn't
deserve to be reviled by the Chelsea faithful.6.Loïc Remy- Ugh… I
just-… There's no reason wh-… He's so-… Just get rid of him.7. Pedro-
Playing fourth fiddle toBarcelona's front line has Pedro dealing with
repressed feelings of discontent like a man in a midlife crisis. He is
trying to make up for lost time on the bench inSpainby trying to be
the Messi of Chelsea. 28 years old, Pedrito is tired of being treated
like a kid and as a sideshow. He is snatching at shots and dawdling on
the ball with desperate faith in his impressive displays of
footballing grace. I was blown awaywith his contributions at West
Brom, a goal and an assist on a debut is a remarkable thing. His goal
was a sort of frustrated expression at Chelsea's wastefulness. Like he
wassaying, "Okay, guys. It's been twenty minutes. Let's get this show
on the road." He took the onus on himself, running through defenders
with a point to prove, and scuffing the ball into the corner. Since
then he has failed to impress. Being caught in possession, scoring
rugby tries instead of football goals, and generally displaying
symptoms of the Chelsea Plague that the rest of the squad is suffering
from. I don't think he should be sold, but he should be given a good,
hard shake, and snapped back to reality.8. Ruben Loftus-Cheek- "Drop"
is the wrong word, but "loan" is almost certainly the best course of
action fora midfielder with so much promise. Ross Barkley isn't much
older than RLC, and he is a starter for Everton, with fantastic
displays of passing range and creativity. He had to provehimself as a
younger player, but that is predicated on the manager at least
selecting him. RLC isn't gettinga look into the first team, and many
Chelsea fans see him as our savior as a fresh injection into midfield.
This lack of involvement looks to be endemic of the type of treatment
poor Obi Mikel has suffered. Either play him or loan him out to a team
where he can make an impact, Jose. He has potential not seen every
day.9. Falcao- Every hedge fund and asset manager in the world must be
equal parts jealous and impressed by Monaco for making a profit off of
a depreciating asset. He made astounding amounts of money at Man Utd,
and although he is making half the amount at Chelsea, the French
Riviera club are enjoying their cigars and martinis with a little more
relish knowing his utter failure as a footballer grates no skin off
their back. When Mourinho spoke out about how he was willing to
takethe Colombian under his wing, I bet Monaco was more than happy to
dump their lemon on him. Passing on the buy-option, he's just another
wart on the face of Chelsea that'll be gone soon. Here's to hoping the
blemish doesn't become septic.10. Diego Costa- Oh, Diego. How welove
you. We chant your name at away matches where you aren't even on the
bench. We chant your name at will, because you make us happy. You are
the quintessential bad guy who we root for. But the cost you bring
with the occasional goal is far too high. Dribbling in from the left
wing always ends in failure. Your hold-up play leads to naught. And
you punch too many people in the face too often. You have forced
Chelsea fans to defend you and the image you project on us by
association. You are no altar boy,you said it yourself, but being an
effective striker does not entail beinga sociopathic one. A great
finisher with height and strength is a wonderful asset. A violent,
ineffective, sluggish, and selfish player is a millstone.
Monday, 5 October 2015
Martial: I'm far from becoming the next Henry
The deadline day signing outlined the Gunners legend as an
inspiration, also suggesting he was surprised by the warm welcome by
his Old Trafford team-mates Manchester united striker Anthony Martial
has indicated his belief that he is far from matching the level of
former arsenal attacker Thierry Henry and has revealed manager Louis
van Gaal's role in his move from Monaco. Martial enjoyed a sparkling
start to his Old Trafford career, with goals in Premier League wins
against Liverpool and Southampton and in the League Cup against
Ipswich Town. But United's progress was derailed somewhat by a
comprehensive 3-0 defeat to Arsenal on Sunday and the France striker
says he is still looking to the Gunners legend for inspiration, hoping
to one day reach Henry's level. "Thierry Henry? He is a legend in
England. I have everything left to prove," Martial told the French
radio station RMC. "Maybe, with hard work, I will finally reach
Henry's level. But at the moment, I'm far from it."The 19-year-old
became the world's most expensive teenager following the move from
Monaco on deadline day in a deal that could rise as high as £58
million and the France international has revealed the reasons why the
club were such an appealing draw. "Why I chose Manchester United?
Because, for me, they are amongst the 5 best clubs in the world,"
Martial said."I also really wanted to continue to play in the
Champions League. This is what made my decision. And I know Van Gaal
wanted me. That's what motivated me to take a decision."It was very
important to show the coach that he could trust me."Martial has also
spoken of his level of self confidence, insisting that he never
doubted that he would be able to step up to Premier League football
but suggesting that the contests are more intense than in Ligue 1. "I
knew that at Manchester United I would have my chance, it was just a
matter of grabbing it," the 19-year-old continued. "It's much faster
in England, there is a lot of intensity but that's what I was looking
for."Off the pitch, the France international has indicated that he has
begun to settle into life in Manchester, learning the language, but
was surprised at the warm welcome he received from his team-mates.
"When I came to Manchester United, everyone came to see me. I was
surprised by this," Martial added. "Everyone tried to speak to me, but
with the language barrier, it was difficult.""I am taking English
courses; it's difficult but I will get there."
inspiration, also suggesting he was surprised by the warm welcome by
his Old Trafford team-mates Manchester united striker Anthony Martial
has indicated his belief that he is far from matching the level of
former arsenal attacker Thierry Henry and has revealed manager Louis
van Gaal's role in his move from Monaco. Martial enjoyed a sparkling
start to his Old Trafford career, with goals in Premier League wins
against Liverpool and Southampton and in the League Cup against
Ipswich Town. But United's progress was derailed somewhat by a
comprehensive 3-0 defeat to Arsenal on Sunday and the France striker
says he is still looking to the Gunners legend for inspiration, hoping
to one day reach Henry's level. "Thierry Henry? He is a legend in
England. I have everything left to prove," Martial told the French
radio station RMC. "Maybe, with hard work, I will finally reach
Henry's level. But at the moment, I'm far from it."The 19-year-old
became the world's most expensive teenager following the move from
Monaco on deadline day in a deal that could rise as high as £58
million and the France international has revealed the reasons why the
club were such an appealing draw. "Why I chose Manchester United?
Because, for me, they are amongst the 5 best clubs in the world,"
Martial said."I also really wanted to continue to play in the
Champions League. This is what made my decision. And I know Van Gaal
wanted me. That's what motivated me to take a decision."It was very
important to show the coach that he could trust me."Martial has also
spoken of his level of self confidence, insisting that he never
doubted that he would be able to step up to Premier League football
but suggesting that the contests are more intense than in Ligue 1. "I
knew that at Manchester United I would have my chance, it was just a
matter of grabbing it," the 19-year-old continued. "It's much faster
in England, there is a lot of intensity but that's what I was looking
for."Off the pitch, the France international has indicated that he has
begun to settle into life in Manchester, learning the language, but
was surprised at the warm welcome he received from his team-mates.
"When I came to Manchester United, everyone came to see me. I was
surprised by this," Martial added. "Everyone tried to speak to me, but
with the language barrier, it was difficult.""I am taking English
courses; it's difficult but I will get there."
Chelsea offer Mourinho 'vote of confidence'
The club has publicly offered the Portuguese coach their 'full
support' despite a run of just two wins in eight Premier Leaguegames
and a home defeat to Southampton on SaturdayChelseahave offered
managerJose Mourinhoand his squad a vote of confidence following their
3-1 defeat at home to Southampton in the Premier League on
Saturday.The Blues claimed the Premier League title last season but
have won just two of their first eight games of the 2015-16 campaign
and sit 16th in the table.Mourinho insisted after the defeat to
Southampton that he would only walk away from Chelsea if the players
no longer trusted him, and the club has released a statement offering
their public backing to the Portuguese.The statement reads: "The club
wants to make it clear that Jose continues to have our fullsupport."As
Jose has said himself, results have not been good enough and the
team's performances must improve. However, we believe that we have the
right manager to turn this season around and that he has the squad
with which to do it."Prior to the defeat to Southampton, Mourinho
described Chelsea's slump as the worst period of his career.But the
Chelsea boss displayed his defiance in the face of criticism following
the shock loss at Stamford Bridge."If the club sacks me, they sack the
best manager this club had," he told reporters. "And secondly, the
message is again the message of bad results. The manager is guilty.
This is the message, not just these players, the other ones before,
they got [the message] during a decade."This is a moment for everybody
to assume their responsibilities. To stick together. This is what I
want."
support' despite a run of just two wins in eight Premier Leaguegames
and a home defeat to Southampton on SaturdayChelseahave offered
managerJose Mourinhoand his squad a vote of confidence following their
3-1 defeat at home to Southampton in the Premier League on
Saturday.The Blues claimed the Premier League title last season but
have won just two of their first eight games of the 2015-16 campaign
and sit 16th in the table.Mourinho insisted after the defeat to
Southampton that he would only walk away from Chelsea if the players
no longer trusted him, and the club has released a statement offering
their public backing to the Portuguese.The statement reads: "The club
wants to make it clear that Jose continues to have our fullsupport."As
Jose has said himself, results have not been good enough and the
team's performances must improve. However, we believe that we have the
right manager to turn this season around and that he has the squad
with which to do it."Prior to the defeat to Southampton, Mourinho
described Chelsea's slump as the worst period of his career.But the
Chelsea boss displayed his defiance in the face of criticism following
the shock loss at Stamford Bridge."If the club sacks me, they sack the
best manager this club had," he told reporters. "And secondly, the
message is again the message of bad results. The manager is guilty.
This is the message, not just these players, the other ones before,
they got [the message] during a decade."This is a moment for everybody
to assume their responsibilities. To stick together. This is what I
want."
Mourinho charged with misconduct
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has been charged with misconduct for his
post-match comments in the wake of The Blues' defeat to
Southampton.Jose Mourinho charged for misconduct following comments
made after Southampton
matchhttp://t.co/VmO6mkGxlLpic.twitter.com/sRLSlPftYt— The FA
(@FA)October 5, 2015
post-match comments in the wake of The Blues' defeat to
Southampton.Jose Mourinho charged for misconduct following comments
made after Southampton
matchhttp://t.co/VmO6mkGxlLpic.twitter.com/sRLSlPftYt— The FA
(@FA)October 5, 2015
Atletico Madrid 1-1 Real Madrid: Late Vietto goal denies Benitez’s men
Karim Benzema's early goal looked set to give the visitors victory,
particularly after Keylor Navas had saved a penalty from Antoine
Griezmann, but Atleti were not to be deniedLuciano Vietto's first goal
forAtletico Madridsecured a 1-1 derby draw seven minutes from time and
stoppedReal Madridfrom moving to the top of La Liga.Karim Benzema
headed his seventh goal in eight appearances this season in the ninth
minute and looked to have settled a typically feisty tussle at the
Vicente Calderon, where his France international team-mate Antoine
Griezmann had a first-half penalty saved forthe hosts.Griezmann partly
atoned for that error by having a hand in the equaliser – making
enough of a nuisance of himself at the near post for Jackson
Martinez's low cross to squirm beyond goalkeeper Keylor Navas for his
fellow substitute Vietto to convert from close range.Vietto's former
club Villarreal lost 1-0 to Levante earlier on Sunday, presenting the
opportunity for Real to take top spot.But Rafael Benitez's team could
not get over the line and lie a point off the pace in secondafter
extending their winless run at the home of their near neighbours to
six matches.Loading...Cristiano Ronaldo headed wide early on from Luca
Modric's left-wing cross but it was from the opposite flank that Real
took the lead.Dani Carvajal surged down the wing to supply an
excellent cross thatBenzema, who had scored just twice in 20 previous
appearances against Atleti, planted emphatically past Jan
Oblak.Atleti's response was strong, with a fired-up Angel Correa to
the fore.Making his first Liga start, the midfielder collected an
one-two from Oliver Torres to arrow a shot past the post from the
right-hand side of the box before sending a thunderous drive wide from
30 yards.Some ragged Real defending gifted Atleti a golden opportunity
to equalise from the spot in the 20th minute – Sergio Ramos briefly
looked to have retrieved the situation but took a heavy touch and
clattered through Tiago.But Griezmann's well-struck effort was at a
favourable height for Navas, who sprung to his left and pushed the
ball to safety.A well-marshalled Ronaldo swivelled to shoot over after
the half-hour mark, while a robust challenge on Carvajal from Oliver
Torres forced Real to bring Alvaro Arbeloa on before the
break.Fernando Torres was played in by Correa five minutes into the
second period but pulled an angled shot across the face of goal.The
former Liverpool striker then had an attempt blocked before making way
for JacksonMartinez in the 64th minute.A succession of fouls by both
teams had badly interrupted the flow of the game by this point, with
Real duo Raphael Varane and Casemiro booked either side of Juanfran to
make it three yellow cards in as many minutes.Gareth Bale followed
Martinez into the Calderon cauldron, replacing Isco for his first Real
action since suffering a calf injury against Shakhtar Donetsk last
month.Navas saved from Martinez in the 74th minute when Vietto found a
Real body with his initial shot, while an unusually sporadic display
from Ronaldo continued when he cut onto his left foot to find the side
netting.Viettoappeared crestfallen when he wasted a good headed chance
in the 81st minute but the Argentine made amends three minutes later –
his compatriot Diego Simeone leading the boisterous celebrations from
the dugout before Martinez was denied by Navas as the hosts almost
snatched another famous triumph.
particularly after Keylor Navas had saved a penalty from Antoine
Griezmann, but Atleti were not to be deniedLuciano Vietto's first goal
forAtletico Madridsecured a 1-1 derby draw seven minutes from time and
stoppedReal Madridfrom moving to the top of La Liga.Karim Benzema
headed his seventh goal in eight appearances this season in the ninth
minute and looked to have settled a typically feisty tussle at the
Vicente Calderon, where his France international team-mate Antoine
Griezmann had a first-half penalty saved forthe hosts.Griezmann partly
atoned for that error by having a hand in the equaliser – making
enough of a nuisance of himself at the near post for Jackson
Martinez's low cross to squirm beyond goalkeeper Keylor Navas for his
fellow substitute Vietto to convert from close range.Vietto's former
club Villarreal lost 1-0 to Levante earlier on Sunday, presenting the
opportunity for Real to take top spot.But Rafael Benitez's team could
not get over the line and lie a point off the pace in secondafter
extending their winless run at the home of their near neighbours to
six matches.Loading...Cristiano Ronaldo headed wide early on from Luca
Modric's left-wing cross but it was from the opposite flank that Real
took the lead.Dani Carvajal surged down the wing to supply an
excellent cross thatBenzema, who had scored just twice in 20 previous
appearances against Atleti, planted emphatically past Jan
Oblak.Atleti's response was strong, with a fired-up Angel Correa to
the fore.Making his first Liga start, the midfielder collected an
one-two from Oliver Torres to arrow a shot past the post from the
right-hand side of the box before sending a thunderous drive wide from
30 yards.Some ragged Real defending gifted Atleti a golden opportunity
to equalise from the spot in the 20th minute – Sergio Ramos briefly
looked to have retrieved the situation but took a heavy touch and
clattered through Tiago.But Griezmann's well-struck effort was at a
favourable height for Navas, who sprung to his left and pushed the
ball to safety.A well-marshalled Ronaldo swivelled to shoot over after
the half-hour mark, while a robust challenge on Carvajal from Oliver
Torres forced Real to bring Alvaro Arbeloa on before the
break.Fernando Torres was played in by Correa five minutes into the
second period but pulled an angled shot across the face of goal.The
former Liverpool striker then had an attempt blocked before making way
for JacksonMartinez in the 64th minute.A succession of fouls by both
teams had badly interrupted the flow of the game by this point, with
Real duo Raphael Varane and Casemiro booked either side of Juanfran to
make it three yellow cards in as many minutes.Gareth Bale followed
Martinez into the Calderon cauldron, replacing Isco for his first Real
action since suffering a calf injury against Shakhtar Donetsk last
month.Navas saved from Martinez in the 74th minute when Vietto found a
Real body with his initial shot, while an unusually sporadic display
from Ronaldo continued when he cut onto his left foot to find the side
netting.Viettoappeared crestfallen when he wasted a good headed chance
in the 81st minute but the Argentine made amends three minutes later –
his compatriot Diego Simeone leading the boisterous celebrations from
the dugout before Martinez was denied by Navas as the hosts almost
snatched another famous triumph.
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