Alan Shearer will be on Match of the Day next season.Sorry Newcastle fans.
Looks like we could have ourselves another Chelsea & Man United Champions League final
Let's be honest. The first leg's of this week's Champions League semi-finals weren't anything special.Between them, Chelsea and Barcelona managed zero goals, whilst Manchester United and Arsenal thankfully managed to score a single goal on Wednesday night.
With both ties now firmly in the balance, you can obviously make a good argument for anyone reaching the final, however for me, it looks as though it will be a repeat of last year's final in Moscow.
Chelsea's draw away at the Nou Camp and Tuesday night now makes them favourites to go progress. With Guus Hiddink's men now having the home advantage in the second leg, you would have to fancy them to just edge Barca, however they will have to be extremly wary of the possibility of Pep Guardiola's men of nicking an all important away goal.
In the other semi-final, Manchester United will take a slender 1-0 lead to the Emirates this coming Tuesday. Sir Alex' Ferguson's men may feel they should be travelling to London with a slightly larger advantage, however as it is, you would still have to make them strong favourites to progress.
Despite the fact I would personally would love to see a Barcelona vs Manchester United final, I just can't see it happening any more. Barca's failure to grab a goal in the first leg will ultimately prove decisive and I think a repeat of last year's final looks increasingly likely. What do you think? Who will make to the final in Rome? Comments below please.
How on earth did Ryan Giggs win the PFA Player of the Year award?
Manchester United's Ryan Giggs has made just 12 Premier League starts this season and yet he still manages to win the PFA Player of the Year award.Like most fans of English football, I am a big admirer of the Welshman's. To still be playing for one of the biggest club's in the world at the age of 35 is simply outstanding, however I am sure many of you will agree with me when I say, he hasn't been the best player in the Premier League this season.
OK, I know I am being slightly harsh about the whole thing, however to give a player who has made just a dozen starts this season the award is a bit ridiculous. There is no doubt that Giggs has been one of the top performers of all-time in the Premier League, but has he been this season's best player. Certainly not.
The only two players who I felt would have been worthy winners of the award were Giggs' United team-mate Nemanja Vidic and Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard.
I can't argue that Giggs has, at times, performed unbelievably well this season. His display away to West Ham back in February was incredible. That particular performance reminded me of the Giggs of old. Delivering sublime crosses and terrorising full-back's with his age-defying bursts of pace.
But why Vidic or Gerrard didn't win the award, I really don't know. Both players have performed magnificently well all season long and I personally felt thought it was a two-horse race between the two of them.
Maybe, the players and managers who voted just thought it would be a nice gesture to Giggs, considering he hasn't won the award before and the fact that he will be retiring in just over a year's time.
What do you think? Did Giggs really deserve the award? If not, who did? Comments below please.
The moment that ruined Hull City's season
After 20 Premier League games, Hull City sat comfortably in mid-table with relagation seeming totally out of the equation. After 34 games, Hull now find themselves in serious danger of going straight back down to the Championship. Phil Brown's men are now lying 17th, just three points above the drop and with Manchester United and Aston Villa still to come, you would have to fancy them to go down.So when and where did it all go wrong for the Tigers?
Well the simple answer to that would be the 26th of December 2008 at the City of Manchester stadium. After Hull conceded four first half goals against Mark Hughes' Manchester City, Phil Brown decided to humiliate his players by keeping them out on the pitch for the half-time team talk. Hull went on to lose the game 5-1 and since then, they have won just one Premier League game.
At the time Brown said this : "It was the right thing to do, there is no doubt about it. I have got no regrets about it whatsoever. I am fully sure Brown regrets the decision now. It may have seemed like the right thing to do at the time, however his decision has no doubt had a negative affect on the squad.
As much as I would love to say that Hull will avoid the drop, I just can't. With sides like Newcastle and Middlesbrough still below them, I feel it's inevitable that one of those side's will get ahead of Hull. During the opening half of the season, I must admit I really liked Phil Brown's attitude. I thought he was a massive breath of fresh air for the top flight of English football, however as time has gone on his attitude seems to have got worse as his side have slipped down the table.
What do you think? Was this the moment that ruined Hull City's season? Can Hull manage to avoid the drop? Comments below please.
Howard Webb : What a Disgrace
It was a decision that no doubt changed the outcome of the game. Howard Webb’s decision to award Manchester United a penalty this afternoon was simply disgraceful. Anyone, even the most ardent of United fans, who saw the game would have to admit that Tottenham keeper Heurelho Gomes should never have been penalised for his supposed “foul” on Michael Carrick.
As we all know, Cristiano Ronaldo scored the penalty. Having scored the penalty, Sir Alex Ferguson’s men were simply unstoppable. The current Premier League Champions went on to win the game 5-2, however the decision to award the penalty has got everyone talking.
Spurs boss Harry Redknapp had this say about the matter: “It was a terrible decision. He’s (Gomes) clearly got the ball. He (Webb) is supposed to be the best referee in the country. On that performance today, I’d hate to see the worst.”
Even Ferguson admitted after the match that it was a poor decision.
Another incident that annoyed me was Webb’s decision not to book Ronaldo for his foul on Aaron Lennon. The Portuguese winger cynically fouled the Spurs man, however Webb decided not to book FIFA World Player of the Year. Just 20 minutes later Ronaldo was booked for taking his jersey off whilst celebrating United’s third goal.
That would have meant that United would have been down to ten men and who knows what meant have happened then.
The award of the penalty will no doubt have massive implications on the outcome of this Premier League season. Spurs’ chances of qualifying for the Europa League are now in serious doubt and United now look certainties to claim their 3rd title on the trot.
So what do you think? Comments below please.
Liverpool would be the perfect move for Carlos Tevez
OK, if you haven't heard by now, Liverpool are rumoured to be lining up a summer move for Manchester United bench warmer Carlos Tevez.The Argentine international has struggled to make any sort of impact at Old Trafford this season, with Sir Alex Ferguson opting to start Dimitar Berbatov ahead of him. The majority of Tevez' 23 Premier League appearances this season have come as a substitute and the 25-year old has recently admitted he is preparing for life away from United.
"I have many offers, not only from Spain: I need to see which club I can go to and what can be done. We must not only consider the money, I also have to ensure my family feel comfortable, especially my daughter. So I have a lot to think about."
With Tevez now obviously living in England, it would make sense for him to stay in this country, considering what he said about making his family feel comfortable. That would make a move to either Liverpool or Manchester City very possible.
There is no doubt that Tevez is one of the best strikers in the Premier League and he deserves to be playing week in week out for one of the big four. As you can see by the headline, I really believe a move to Anfield would be perfect for both parties. Rafa Benitez would be getting a top quality player who could be a perfect strike partner for Fernando Torres.
Tevez would be joining one of the biggest clubs in Europe and also he wouldn't even have to move house, considering he only lives down the road from Liverpool. Also Tevez would be playing alongside good friend Javier Mascherano, whom he moved to West Ham with in 2006.
There are, however a few reasons why this move may not go ahead :
1. Liverpool may not be too keen to spend £25 million on a player who has barely played this season.
2. It is clear for all to see that United fans and Tevez have a very close relationship and I don't think Tevez would want to hurt the fans who have made him feel so welcome by moving to one of their biggest rivals.
What do you think? Is there any chance we will see Tevez in a Liverpool shirt next season? Comments below please.
They think it's all over .... It is now
Even the most ardent Liverpool fan would have to agree that the title race is now over.Tonight's 2-0 win for current Premier League Champions Manchester United, coupled with Liverpool's failure to claim all three points against Arsenal on Tuesday evening has left Sir Alex Ferguson's men three points clear and still with a game in hand (which is against Wigan at home).
Credit to Rafa Benitez. Back in February, it looked as though United were going to win the title quite comfortably, however that certainly hasn't been the case. Liverpool's form over the months of March and April was simply outstanding, with the 4-1 win at Old Trafford most definitely the highlight.
Despite this, it looks as though United will go on to claim their 3rd Premier League title on the trot come the end of May and you couldn't argue that it will be well deserved. Share your thoughts on this post, the title race and tonight's games by leaving a comment below.
Maybe this man will help Newcastle avoid the drop
Yes, this man, Joey Barton is set to return to the Newcastle United squad for next Monday's must win game at home Portsmouth.The 25-year old has been out of action for almost three months now with a broken foot, however he now looks set to play a major part in the Magpies fight for survival.
Alan Shearer's men are currently four points adrift of Blackburn in 17th and are in desperate need of something or someone to keep them up, so could the man who has earned a reputation as one of the Premier League's most hated individuals be the one to change things at St James'?
Who knows? Only time will tell.
But for me, I think Barton is just what Newcastle need. A real fighter. OK, he may not be the most talented player in the world, however whenever Joey Barton steps out on the field, you can guarantee one thing. That he will always give you 100%, no matter what.
So what do you think? Is Barton the men to lift Newcastle out of the drop zone and to Premier League safety or will he prove to be a liability in the final few games? Comments below please.
Game of the Season?
What about that for an unbelievable game of football.The first half was only OK but the second half was anything but OK. It was incredible.
In the end, tonight's game at Anfield finished : Liverpool 4-4 Arsenal.
I don't know about you, but I certainly think tonight's game has been by far the best we've seen in the Premier League all season. Liverpool dominated for large parts, however Arsenal deserve a lot of credit for staying in it when they went 2-1 down.
Here are some things I think we can take from tonight's game :
The fact that, four goal man Andrei Arshavin, can really cut it in England.
The title will now be heading for Old Trafford. Liverpool are now level on points with Manchester United, however Sir Alex Ferguson's men now have two games in hand.
And finally, not that we didn't know this one already but, the Premier League is most definitely the BEST league in the world.
Share your thoughts on tonight's match by leaving a comment below.
Puzzle Time
We decided to make puzzles based on the books that we were reading in the classroom. The boys really enjoyed making the puzzles.
Here are some of our masterpieces.
The race for 7th place
With just five games to go now in the Barclays Premier League, things are really beginning to get interesting.Manchester United are just edging Liverpool at the top of the table whilst at the bottom, the likes of Newcastle and Middlesbrough are struggling to keep their status as a top flight club.
Also, the race for 7th place, and that final Europa League spot, is really hotting up with nearly half a dozen clubs still in the running.
At the moment, Gianfranco Zola's West Ham currently occupy that 7th spot, however they have a host of clubs lining up behind them ready to pounce on any mistake made by the Hammers between now and the end of May.
Fulham, Tottenham, Manchester City and Wigan are all still in with a shout of catching West Ham. With Zola's men still to play the likes of Liverpool, Chelsea and Everton before the season ends there is certainly hope for the chasing pack.
In truth, none of the sides involved have an easy run-in.
I am finding it really hard to pick a winner between the five involved. Tottenham are on a good run but they still have to travel to places like Goodison Park, Old Trafford and Anfield so that would probably lead me to rule them out of it. It's just not possible for Manchester City to do it if they keep their current away form going.
Fulham ...... err, no. Wigan ..... they might just be a bit too far back.
I certainly wouldn't be putting any money on it, but I'll say West Ham.
What do you think? Who will claim 7th spot? Comments below please.
Lazy penalty, Lazy player
What a pathetic penalty.Dimitar Berbatov showed everyone what he is all about today. The player who Manchester United signed for a massive £30 million last summer came on as a substitute during his side's FA Cup exit at the hands of Everton. The game went to penalties and the Bulgarian took, what can only be described as, one of the worst penalties of modern times.
The penalty summed up Berbatov's time at United. Lazy.
Have your say on the penalty and the player by leaving a comment below.
Liverpool player tries to defend himself after receiving two week ban from the club
Liverpool goalkepper Charles Itandje has today attempted to defend himself after he was banned for two weeks by the Merseyside club.The former French under-21 international was seen acting inappropriately during the club's memorial service for the victims of the Hillsborough disaster earlier this week and has now been banned, however Itandje feels the situation has been blown out of all proportion.
The 26-year old had this to say about the situation : "It is a 30-second video montage that was given senseless proportions. My behaviour should be judged over a one-hour video ... You know the papers here (in Britain), they do a lot with not much. I even heard I was dancing! ... What happened will not do much to change my situation at the club since I am already on the transfer list."
Why Itandje has come out and said what he has is just beyond me. There is nothing he can say to condone his actions. They were just plain stupid. He should have just kept his mouth shut, maybe release a public apology, and get on with his career. I am keen to hear what you Liverpool fans have to say about Itandje. Comments below please.
Why on earth would Chelsea want to sign this guy?
It came much to my surprise this evening to see Chelsea have been linked with a summer move for Tottenham keeper Heurelho Gomes. The 28-year old has done little to impress since he moved to White Hart Lane last summer for a fee believed to be £7.8 million so why London's Evening Standard have reported this is just beyond me.Ok, current Chelsea number one Petr Cech hasn't been too convincing of late but he is still considerably better than Gomes no matter what way you look at it. Maybe I am being a bit harsh on Gomes, but for a player of his ability to be linked with one of the best sides in Europe is a joke.
What do you think? Comments below please.
The bitching continues between Ferguson and Benitez
Ever since the beginning of January the pair have been arguing. Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez kicked it all off when he made his outburst about the FA's leniency towards Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson when it comes to referees.Since then, they have argued about a variety of different things including kick-off times following mid-week European games, United being "scared" of Liverpool and, of course, the title race.
In the build-up to United's FA Cup semi-final with Everton on Sunday, Ferguson has decided to target Benitez' lack of respect to Liverpool's Merseyside rivals and Blackburn. The Scot had this to say : "Everton are a big club, not a small one which Benitez arrogantly said ... Arrogance is one thing. You cannot forgive contempt, which is what he showed Sam Allardyce last weekend,"
"When Liverpool scored their second goal he signalled as if the game was finished. I do not think Sam deserved that ... Sam has worked so hard for the LMA (League Managers' Association) and he's had a weakened team. I just thought it showed contempt ... In my experience no Liverpool manager has ever done that. It was beyond the pale."
Interesting stuff from Ferguson. I must say I did not see what Benitez did last Saturday during the side's 4-0 win over Blackburn, however for Ferguson to say such things something must have happened. I do remember Benitez calling Everton a small club and at the time I thought it was quite disrespectful, however why it has taken Ferguson this long to say something about that is kind of strange.
What do you make of Ferguson's comments? Comments below please.
Who's goal was better? Cristiano Ronaldo's or Alex's?
OK, both were outstanding goals in their own right, but what we at Football Corner want to know is, who's was better?Tuesday night saw Chelsea defender Alex score an unbelievable 30-yard free-kick which helped Guus Hiddink's men earn a place in the last four of the Champions League. FIFA World Player of the Year Cristiano Ronaldo scored one of the goals of the season on Wednesday night against Porto. His 35-yard screamer earned Manchester United a semi-final tie with Arsenal.
So who will you vote for? If I was picking myself, I would probably go for Ronaldo's only because it was from open play. Please place your vote below.
Can anyone stop Barcelona from becoming Champions of Europe?
So we're down to the last four. In just over a month's time Barcelona, Manchester United, Chelsea or Arsenal will be crowned Champions of Europe in Rome's Olympic Stadium.There is no doubt we're in for two mouth-watering semi-final clashes as Barcelona face Chelsea whilst current Champions Man United play Arsenal. Based on current European form alone you would have to fancy Barca going all the way.
Pep Guardiola's men have looked unplayable at times this season. Their quarter-final first leg against German giants Bayern Munich was outstanding. Barca completely outplayed their opponents, eventually running out 4-0 winners, however that figure could have been even more.
So who's going to stop Barca from going all the way? In my opinion no one, however Guus Hiddink may have a thing or two to say about that. There is no doubt Chelsea, who have been in fine form of late, have the players to compete with Barca over two legs. When Didier Drogba is on form, I honestly don't believe their is a better striker in Europe.
The one thing Chelsea have going for them is the fact that they are at home in the crucial second leg of the tie, which can play a major bearing on who actually progresses. Overall though, I think Barcelona will prove too good for Chelsea and will comfortably beat them 3-1 on aggeragate.
So who will join them in the final? I can't see Arsenal stopping Man United. Sir Alex Ferguson's men know they got lucky in the last round against Porto and I don't see them slipping up again.
What do you think? Who do you think will make it to the final and more importantly who will go on to lift the famous trophy?
Liverpool do Hillsborough victims proud
It was an emotional day at Anfield as Liverpool remembered the victims of the Hillsborough tragedy.96 Liverpool fans were crushed to death during their side's FA Cup quarter-final clash with Nottingham Forest after police made the decision to allow too many fans into the away section in Hillsborough that day.
As I watched today's service at Anfield, I couldn't help but feel a huge sense of admiration for the people of Liverpool. The two minute silence that marked the occasion was incredible. Not a sound for the 120 seconds.
Despite last night's exit from the Champions League, the Liverpool fans gave Rafa Benitez' men an unbelievable reception as they took their seats for the service. You would excpect nothing less from fans who are undoubtedly among the best in the world.
I am sure the friends and families of those who died in Sheffield 20 years ago will have been delighted with how the day went.
Diaby in, Djourou out
Arsenal's defensive problems have increased with the news that Johan Djourou is definitely ruled out of the Champions League quarter-final second leg against Villarreal.A knee injury means that Swiss international Djourou joins fellow defenders William Gallas and Gael Clichy, as well as first-choice goalkeeper Manuel Almunia, on the sidelines.
"Both Djourou and Clichy are unfortunately out," Arsene Wenger said at his pre-match news conference. "Djourou has a knee problem. He will have a scan today but we fear a cartilage (injury)."
One piece of good news for Arsene Wenger is that versatile midfielder Abou Diaby has made the squad after recovering from a thigh injury sustained on international duty last month.
Villarreal will be without captain and talismanic midfielder Marcos Senna, who limped out of the 2-0 defeat to Malaga at the weekend with hamstring trouble. Senna opened the scoring in the first leg at El Madrigal before Emanuel Adebayor equalised with a stunning overhead kick.
The Spanish side - currently fourth in La Liga, are also without influential winger Santi Cazorla, although midfield duo Cani and Mati Fernandez have recovered to make the trip.
Diaby in, Djourou out
Arsenal's defensive problems have increased with the news that Johan Djourou is definitely ruled out of the Champions League quarter-final second leg against Villarreal.A knee injury means that Swiss international Djourou joins fellow defenders William Gallas and Gael Clichy, as well as first-choice goalkeeper Manuel Almunia, on the sidelines.
"Both Djourou and Clichy are unfortunately out," Arsene Wenger said at his pre-match news conference. "Djourou has a knee problem. He will have a scan today but we fear a cartilage (injury)."
One piece of good news for Arsene Wenger is that versatile midfielder Abou Diaby has made the squad after recovering from a thigh injury sustained on international duty last month.
Villarreal will be without captain and talismanic midfielder Marcos Senna, who limped out of the 2-0 defeat to Malaga at the weekend with hamstring trouble. Senna opened the scoring in the first leg at El Madrigal before Emanuel Adebayor equalised with a stunning overhead kick.
The Spanish side - currently fourth in La Liga, are also without influential winger Santi Cazorla, although midfield duo Cani and Mati Fernandez have recovered to make the trip.
ARSENAL MUST END TROPHY DROUGHT:ADE
Emmanuel Adebayor insists Arsenal must end their four-year trophy drought if they are to reclaim their place among European football's elite.Arsene Wenger's side will attempt to ease their way past Villarreal in Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final second leg, the first leg ended 1-1, before facing Chelsea in the weekend FA Cup semi-final. After a troubled campaign, the Gunners have rescued their season on the back of a 17-game unbeaten run. And Adebayor - who is adamant he is settled at the Emirates Stadium after being strongly linked with a move AC Milan last summer - believes Wenger's young squad is now ready to step up to the next level and restore the club as a trophy-winning force. "If you want to be a big club, of course you have to win things, which is normal," the striker said. "If most of the people say Manchester United are a big club in Europe, it is because they won the Premier League and the Champions League. "They are the reasons they are big. We are ready for that. We were unlucky to go out in the quarter-finals of the Champions League against Liverpool last season. This season we have the chance to do it and just have to ta
ke our chances. "I've been here three years and saying we have to win things and achieve things and now I think it is a real chance to win something because we are in the semi-final of the FA Cup and quarter-final of the Champions League. We just have to stand up and go for it."
ke our chances. "I've been here three years and saying we have to win things and achieve things and now I think it is a real chance to win something because we are in the semi-final of the FA Cup and quarter-final of the Champions League. We just have to stand up and go for it."The prospect of Arsenal lifting silverware looked remote after the loss of key players Alexander Hleb and Mathieu Flamini last summer and the reports of a dressing room split that followed William Gallas's demotion as skipper.
Gallas was critical of the efforts of some of his younger colleagues but Adebayor has no doubt that the squad is now fully united - and that he is ready to shoulder the responsibility for scoring the goals that could make the difference of success and failure this year. He added: "The pressure is there: all the fans, the newspapers, journalists. That is normal. I can understand that.
"For me as a footballer the most important thing is how I am going to help my team to win. We know Villarreal will be one of the toughest games I will have in my life and we will have to give 100 percent. After that we will talk about other things.
"It's been difficult with all the problems, Hleb going to Barcelona, Matthieu Flamini going to Milan and everything was struggling a little bit, are we going to buy or not, all these thing, myself going or staying. "I know we've had a difficult season in the Premier League, but we're still in the Champions League, still in the FA Cup and that's fantastic.
"For me we are now playing quite well and we enjoy playing together as a team, we are as a team and we are back in business, that is the most important thing."
ARSENAL MUST END TROPHY DROUGHT:ADE
Emmanuel Adebayor insists Arsenal must end their four-year trophy drought if they are to reclaim their place among European football's elite.Arsene Wenger's side will attempt to ease their way past Villarreal in Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final second leg, the first leg ended 1-1, before facing Chelsea in the weekend FA Cup semi-final. After a troubled campaign, the Gunners have rescued their season on the back of a 17-game unbeaten run. And Adebayor - who is adamant he is settled at the Emirates Stadium after being strongly linked with a move AC Milan last summer - believes Wenger's young squad is now ready to step up to the next level and restore the club as a trophy-winning force. "If you want to be a big club, of course you have to win things, which is normal," the striker said. "If most of the people say Manchester United are a big club in Europe, it is because they won the Premier League and the Champions League. "They are the reasons they are big. We are ready for that. We were unlucky to go out in the quarter-finals of the Champions League against Liverpool last season. This season we have the chance to do it and just have to take our chances. "I've been here three years and saying we have to win things and achieve things and now I think it is a real chance to win something because we are in the semi-final of the FA Cup and quarter-final of the Champions League. We just have to stand up and go for it."
ke our chances. "I've been here three years and saying we have to win things and achieve things and now I think it is a real chance to win something because we are in the semi-final of the FA Cup and quarter-final of the Champions League. We just have to stand up and go for it."The prospect of Arsenal lifting silverware looked remote after the loss of key players Alexander Hleb and Mathieu Flamini last summer and the reports of a dressing room split that followed William Gallas's demotion as skipper.
Gallas was critical of the efforts of some of his younger colleagues but Adebayor has no doubt that the squad is now fully united - and that he is ready to shoulder the responsibility for scoring the goals that could make the difference of success and failure this year. He added: "The pressure is there: all the fans, the newspapers, journalists. That is normal. I can understand that.
"For me as a footballer the most important thing is how I am going to help my team to win. We know Villarreal will be one of the toughest games I will have in my life and we will have to give 100 percent. After that we will talk about other things.
"It's been difficult with all the problems, Hleb going to Barcelona, Matthieu Flamini going to Milan and everything was struggling a little bit, are we going to buy or not, all these thing, myself going or staying. "I know we've had a difficult season in the Premier League, but we're still in the Champions League, still in the FA Cup and that's fantastic.
"For me we are now playing quite well and we enjoy playing together as a team, we are as a team and we are back in business, that is the most important thing."
Inler Interest Hots Up
Gokhan Inler's agent claims Arsenal are one of a number of clubs interested in signing the Udinese midfielder.The highly-rated Switzerland international was linked with a move to Emirates Stadium before the start of the season and again in the winter transfer window.
The speculation has now resurfaced but agent Dino Lamberti insists there will be a lot of competition for his signature from sides in Spain, Italy and Germany. However, Inler is tied to Udinese on a long-term contract and Lamberti admits there have been no formal approaches as yet.
He told spox.com: "Arsenal FC, Real Madrid and Inter Milan, they all want to sign Gokhan. "But I have heard that even Hamburg and Bayern Munich are monitoring Gokhan. However, there was no direct link between us yet."
Lamberti has hinted that Hamburg may be leading the chase for Inler, although Udinese would demand a high price for the 24-year-old. "Without knowing anything about their financial situation I could imagine that Hamburg could compete economically," he commented.
"It is a fact that Udinese have already received an offer worth £16m for Gokhan. This has been rejected as the chairman wants £22.5m."
Lamberti has no doubts about Inler's ability to play in any league in Europe but he will not speak to his player about the future until the Serie A season is over. He explained: "I will leave Gokhan alone in the next couple of weeks and not tell him anything about offers, otherwise he starts dreaming and will get confused. "Gokhan is so versatile that he could cope with playing in England, Spain and Germany."
Inler Interest Hots Up
Gokhan Inler's agent claims Arsenal are one of a number of clubs interested in signing the Udinese midfielder.The highly-rated Switzerland international was linked with a move to Emirates Stadium before the start of the season and again in the winter transfer window.
The speculation has now resurfaced but agent Dino Lamberti insists there will be a lot of competition for his signature from sides in Spain, Italy and Germany. However, Inler is tied to Udinese on a long-term contract and Lamberti admits there have been no formal approaches as yet.
He told spox.com: "Arsenal FC, Real Madrid and Inter Milan, they all want to sign Gokhan. "But I have heard that even Hamburg and Bayern Munich are monitoring Gokhan. However, there was no direct link between us yet."
Lamberti has hinted that Hamburg may be leading the chase for Inler, although Udinese would demand a high price for the 24-year-old. "Without knowing anything about their financial situation I could imagine that Hamburg could compete economically," he commented.
"It is a fact that Udinese have already received an offer worth £16m for Gokhan. This has been rejected as the chairman wants £22.5m."
Lamberti has no doubts about Inler's ability to play in any league in Europe but he will not speak to his player about the future until the Serie A season is over. He explained: "I will leave Gokhan alone in the next couple of weeks and not tell him anything about offers, otherwise he starts dreaming and will get confused. "Gokhan is so versatile that he could cope with playing in England, Spain and Germany."
Liverpool still left with a mountain to climb
In the end, it was a weekend that did little to change the outcome of this seasons Premier League title race.Manchester United still look firmly on course to claim their third title in as many years, whilst Liverpool still have a mountain to climb if they are to win their first title in nearly twenty years.
Sir Alex Ferguson's men showed a great deal of character (or just got lucky) beating Sunderland 2-1 at the Stadium of Light on Saturday. This result came just a few hours after Rafa Benitez' men comfortably saw off Blackburn 4-0 at Anfield on what was a highly emotional day on Merseyside as Liverpool fans remembered the 96 fans who died in Hillsborough twenty years ago.
With just six games to go now, you would have to saw it is Uniteds title to lose. They now sit just a point above Liverpool, however they also have a game in hand which is against Wigan in a months time.
I feel next week's matches will tell us a lot as to where the Premier League trophy eventually ends up. Liverpool host the in-form Arsenal whilst United welcome Portsmouth to Old Trafford. Who do you think will win the title? Comments below please.
Apologies for the lack of posting over the last week or so.
STATS AND FACTS...
A look at the key facts and stats ahead of the Champions League clash at the Emirates Stadium.Arsenal have only scored three goals in their last six Champions League matches.
Villarreal have played seven Champions League games against English teams - six draws (five 0-0) and a 1-0 defeat to Arsenal in the semi-final in 2006. Villarreal have only won six and drawn 12 out of 21 Champions League matches.
Arsenal's Brazilian midfielder Denilson is the only outfield player to have featured in every minute of this season's Champions League.
The Gunners have lost two Champions League home games against Spanish opposition, against Barcelona in 1999 and Deportivo in 2002, both in the group stage. Arsenal have kept a clean sheet on each of the last five occasions they have hosted Spanish opposition in the Champions League. The last non-English team to score more than one goal at Arsenal was Internazionale in September 2003. Since then Arsene Wenger's men have kept 19 clean sheets in 27 Champions League home matches. The only clean sheet kept by the Spanish side away from home in this campaign has been at Old Trafford.
Arsenal are the only team left in the competition yet to concede at home this season.
Villarreal have scored 13 goals so far, six of them in the game against Aalborg.
STATS AND FACTS...
A look at the key facts and stats ahead of the Champions League clash at the Emirates Stadium.Arsenal have only scored three goals in their last six Champions League matches.
Villarreal have played seven Champions League games against English teams - six draws (five 0-0) and a 1-0 defeat to Arsenal in the semi-final in 2006. Villarreal have only won six and drawn 12 out of 21 Champions League matches.
Arsenal's Brazilian midfielder Denilson is the only outfield player to have featured in every minute of this season's Champions League.
The Gunners have lost two Champions League home games against Spanish opposition, against Barcelona in 1999 and Deportivo in 2002, both in the group stage. Arsenal have kept a clean sheet on each of the last five occasions they have hosted Spanish opposition in the Champions League. The last non-English team to score more than one goal at Arsenal was Internazionale in September 2003. Since then Arsene Wenger's men have kept 19 clean sheets in 27 Champions League home matches. The only clean sheet kept by the Spanish side away from home in this campaign has been at Old Trafford.
Arsenal are the only team left in the competition yet to concede at home this season.
Villarreal have scored 13 goals so far, six of them in the game against Aalborg.
SENNA TO MISS....
Villarreal will be without Marcos Senna for this week's Champions League return meeting with Arsenal because of injury.The Spain international midfielder limped out of Saturday night's 2-0 home defeat by Malaga in the 80th minute due to a hamstring problem, leaving the Yellow Submarine with 10 players as coach Manuel Pellegrini had already made three substitutions.
It is not yet known how long Senna will be out for but, according to Villarreal's website, he will definitely miss Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final second leg at the Emirates Stadium.
Senna scored Villarreal's goal as they drew the first leg with Arsenal 1-1 at El Madrigal last week.
SENNA TO MISS....
Villarreal will be without Marcos Senna for this week's Champions League return meeting with Arsenal because of injury.The Spain international midfielder limped out of Saturday night's 2-0 home defeat by Malaga in the 80th minute due to a hamstring problem, leaving the Yellow Submarine with 10 players as coach Manuel Pellegrini had already made three substitutions.
It is not yet known how long Senna will be out for but, according to Villarreal's website, he will definitely miss Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final second leg at the Emirates Stadium.
Senna scored Villarreal's goal as they drew the first leg with Arsenal 1-1 at El Madrigal last week.
JJB GUNNED BY GUNNERS..
Arsenal came from behind to win 4-1 at Wigan Athletic and cement their grip on fourth place in the Premier League.
Mido had given the home side the lead at the JJB Stadium with an 18th-minute strike but second-half efforts from Theo Walcott and substitute Mikael Silvestre earned Arsene Wenger's side the lead.
Injury-time goals from Andrey Arshavin and Alexandre Song gave the scoreline a flattering look and saw the Gunners extend their unbeaten run to 18 matches.
The scorers for ARSENAL were :
1st goal: THEO WALCOTT.2nd goal: MIKAEL SILVESTER.
3rd goal:ANDREY ARSHAVIN.
4th goal: ALEXANDER SONG.
The win at the JJB was a true mark of the Arsenals temprement,confidence and good play...
JJB GUNNED BY GUNNERS..
Arsenal came from behind to win 4-1 at Wigan Athletic and cement their grip on fourth place in the Premier League.
Mido had given the home side the lead at the JJB Stadium with an 18th-minute strike but second-half efforts from Theo Walcott and substitute Mikael Silvestre earned Arsene Wenger's side the lead.
Injury-time goals from Andrey Arshavin and Alexandre Song gave the scoreline a flattering look and saw the Gunners extend their unbeaten run to 18 matches.
The scorers for ARSENAL were :
1st goal: THEO WALCOTT.2nd goal: MIKAEL SILVESTER.
3rd goal:ANDREY ARSHAVIN.
4th goal: ALEXANDER SONG.
The win at the JJB was a true mark of the Arsenals temprement,confidence and good play...
AA: Money couldn't lure me away
आर्सेनल'स अंदरे अर्शाविन हस कांसदेद हे वौल्ड नेवर लीव थे क्लब फॉर अ बिग-मनी ऑफर जुस्त थ्री मोंथ्स इन्तो हिस एमिरातेस स्टेडियम तेनुरे.थे रशिया स्टार एवेंतुअल्ली सीलेद अ £15million स्वित्च तो नॉर्थ लन्दन बेफोरे थे क्लोसे ऑफ़ थे जनुअरी ट्रान्सफर विण्डो फोल्लोविंग मोंथ्स ऑफ़ स्पेकुलेशन.
अर्शाविन अर्रिवेद इन थे कैपिटल शोर्ट ऑफ़ मातच फिटनेस, बुत हस बीन स्लोवली इन्तेग्रतेद इन्तो अर्सेने वेन्गेर'स फर्स्ट टीम.
थे २७-इयर-ओल्ड, व्हो ओपेनेद हिस अकाउंट इन आर्सेनल'स ४-० वीं ओवर ब्लाक्क्बुर्ण, अल्रेअद्य फील्स अत होम इन नॉर्थ लन्दन एंड विल नोट बे लीविंग थे क्लब फॉर बिग-मनी ओफ्फेर्स एल्सेव्हेरे.
"अत आर्सेनल इटी फील अत होम. इ लिखे एवेर्य्थिंग हियर, थे फ़्रिएन्द्ल्य टीम, अ विस एंड एक्ष्पेरिएन्केद मेनेजर, एंड फंतस्तिक फंस. इ वों'टी लीव थे क्लब फॉर एनी मनी," हे टोल्ड थे रुस्सियन प्रेस.
"ठाट वे अरे फौर्थ इन थे प्रेमिएर लीग इस अन अचिएवेमेंट ऑफ़ थे व्होले ऑफ़ थे टीम, नोट माय ओवन. इ होप माय रियल सुच्सस्सेस विथ आर्सेनल अरे स्टील तो काम."
अर्शाविन अर्रिवेद इन थे कैपिटल शोर्ट ऑफ़ मातच फिटनेस, बुत हस बीन स्लोवली इन्तेग्रतेद इन्तो अर्सेने वेन्गेर'स फर्स्ट टीम.
थे २७-इयर-ओल्ड, व्हो ओपेनेद हिस अकाउंट इन आर्सेनल'स ४-० वीं ओवर ब्लाक्क्बुर्ण, अल्रेअद्य फील्स अत होम इन नॉर्थ लन्दन एंड विल नोट बे लीविंग थे क्लब फॉर बिग-मनी ओफ्फेर्स एल्सेव्हेरे.
"अत आर्सेनल इटी फील अत होम. इ लिखे एवेर्य्थिंग हियर, थे फ़्रिएन्द्ल्य टीम, अ विस एंड एक्ष्पेरिएन्केद मेनेजर, एंड फंतस्तिक फंस. इ वों'टी लीव थे क्लब फॉर एनी मनी," हे टोल्ड थे रुस्सियन प्रेस.
"ठाट वे अरे फौर्थ इन थे प्रेमिएर लीग इस अन अचिएवेमेंट ऑफ़ थे व्होले ऑफ़ थे टीम, नोट माय ओवन. इ होप माय रियल सुच्सस्सेस विथ आर्सेनल अरे स्टील तो काम."
AA: Money couldn't lure me away
आर्सेनल'स अंदरे अर्शाविन हस कांसदेद हे वौल्ड नेवर लीव थे क्लब फॉर अ बिग-मनी ऑफर जुस्त थ्री मोंथ्स इन्तो हिस एमिरातेस स्टेडियम तेनुरे.थे रशिया स्टार एवेंतुअल्ली सीलेद अ £15million स्वित्च तो नॉर्थ लन्दन बेफोरे थे क्लोसे ऑफ़ थे जनुअरी ट्रान्सफर विण्डो फोल्लोविंग मोंथ्स ऑफ़ स्पेकुलेशन.
अर्शाविन अर्रिवेद इन थे कैपिटल शोर्ट ऑफ़ मातच फिटनेस, बुत हस बीन स्लोवली इन्तेग्रतेद इन्तो अर्सेने वेन्गेर'स फर्स्ट टीम.
थे २७-इयर-ओल्ड, व्हो ओपेनेद हिस अकाउंट इन आर्सेनल'स ४-० वीं ओवर ब्लाक्क्बुर्ण, अल्रेअद्य फील्स अत होम इन नॉर्थ लन्दन एंड विल नोट बे लीविंग थे क्लब फॉर बिग-मनी ओफ्फेर्स एल्सेव्हेरे.
"अत आर्सेनल इटी फील अत होम. इ लिखे एवेर्य्थिंग हियर, थे फ़्रिएन्द्ल्य टीम, अ विस एंड एक्ष्पेरिएन्केद मेनेजर, एंड फंतस्तिक फंस. इ वों'टी लीव थे क्लब फॉर एनी मनी," हे टोल्ड थे रुस्सियन प्रेस.
"ठाट वे अरे फौर्थ इन थे प्रेमिएर लीग इस अन अचिएवेमेंट ऑफ़ थे व्होले ऑफ़ थे टीम, नोट माय ओवन. इ होप माय रियल सुच्सस्सेस विथ आर्सेनल अरे स्टील तो काम."
अर्शाविन अर्रिवेद इन थे कैपिटल शोर्ट ऑफ़ मातच फिटनेस, बुत हस बीन स्लोवली इन्तेग्रतेद इन्तो अर्सेने वेन्गेर'स फर्स्ट टीम.
थे २७-इयर-ओल्ड, व्हो ओपेनेद हिस अकाउंट इन आर्सेनल'स ४-० वीं ओवर ब्लाक्क्बुर्ण, अल्रेअद्य फील्स अत होम इन नॉर्थ लन्दन एंड विल नोट बे लीविंग थे क्लब फॉर बिग-मनी ओफ्फेर्स एल्सेव्हेरे.
"अत आर्सेनल इटी फील अत होम. इ लिखे एवेर्य्थिंग हियर, थे फ़्रिएन्द्ल्य टीम, अ विस एंड एक्ष्पेरिएन्केद मेनेजर, एंड फंतस्तिक फंस. इ वों'टी लीव थे क्लब फॉर एनी मनी," हे टोल्ड थे रुस्सियन प्रेस.
"ठाट वे अरे फौर्थ इन थे प्रेमिएर लीग इस अन अचिएवेमेंट ऑफ़ थे व्होले ऑफ़ थे टीम, नोट माय ओवन. इ होप माय रियल सुच्सस्सेस विथ आर्सेनल अरे स्टील तो काम."
GUNNERS: TO INFLUENCE TITLE RACE
ARSENE WENGER believes his Arsenal team, who are currently fourth in the Premier League, will have a "massive influence" on who wins this year's title. Manchester United, Chelsea and Liverpool all have to play the north London club before the end of the season.
Sir Alex Ferguson's champions, aiming to claim the Premier League for a third consecutive year, host Arsenal on 16 May in the clubs' penultimate match of the campaign. By then the Gunners will also have played Chelsea at the Emirates a week earlier and visited Anfield on 21 April.
"Yes of course we will have a massive influence," Wenger said. "But at the moment the first target is to get away from Aston Villa [in fifth] and then get close to Chelsea and Liverpool because you never know.
"The best schedule is Chelsea's," he said of Guus Hiddink's team, who have four games to play at home. "But I think Manchester United is in the strongest position because the game in hand [against Portsmouth] is not away. "This weekend will be important because United go to Sunderland. I believe that when you have a game in hand, seven games to go, if you can be four [points] ahead it is still a big advantage. "
The Frenchman's side visit Wigan today to start what he says will be a pivotal week for the club – Villarreal are at the Emirates on Wednesday evening hoping to overturn the 1-1 draw from the first leg of the Champions League quarter-final, before Arsenal face Chelsea in the FA Cup semi-final at Wembley on Saturday.
"It's a massive week. The league remains a priority of the future; the Champions League and FA Cup the priority of the immediate," added the Frenchman, who yesterday came under attack from Lassana Diarra when the Real Madrid player discussed his brief five-month spell at Arsenal that ended in January of last year. Asked what he had learned from Wenger the former Chelsea midfielder said: "Nothing. I did not learn anything. He just taught me to doubt everything. The relationship was not good. "I learned more with Jose Mourinho. [He] taught me to fight. If you had a problem, it would be discussed. Wenger never addressed me until I told him I was going. He talked to others, but not me. I feel like I never played for Arsenal. If people do not remind me, I forget about them. It's erased from my memory."
GUNNERS: TO INFLUENCE TITLE RACE
ARSENE WENGER believes his Arsenal team, who are currently fourth in the Premier League, will have a "massive influence" on who wins this year's title. Manchester United, Chelsea and Liverpool all have to play the north London club before the end of the season.
Sir Alex Ferguson's champions, aiming to claim the Premier League for a third consecutive year, host Arsenal on 16 May in the clubs' penultimate match of the campaign. By then the Gunners will also have played Chelsea at the Emirates a week earlier and visited Anfield on 21 April.
"Yes of course we will have a massive influence," Wenger said. "But at the moment the first target is to get away from Aston Villa [in fifth] and then get close to Chelsea and Liverpool because you never know.
"The best schedule is Chelsea's," he said of Guus Hiddink's team, who have four games to play at home. "But I think Manchester United is in the strongest position because the game in hand [against Portsmouth] is not away. "This weekend will be important because United go to Sunderland. I believe that when you have a game in hand, seven games to go, if you can be four [points] ahead it is still a big advantage. "
The Frenchman's side visit Wigan today to start what he says will be a pivotal week for the club – Villarreal are at the Emirates on Wednesday evening hoping to overturn the 1-1 draw from the first leg of the Champions League quarter-final, before Arsenal face Chelsea in the FA Cup semi-final at Wembley on Saturday.
"It's a massive week. The league remains a priority of the future; the Champions League and FA Cup the priority of the immediate," added the Frenchman, who yesterday came under attack from Lassana Diarra when the Real Madrid player discussed his brief five-month spell at Arsenal that ended in January of last year. Asked what he had learned from Wenger the former Chelsea midfielder said: "Nothing. I did not learn anything. He just taught me to doubt everything. The relationship was not good. "I learned more with Jose Mourinho. [He] taught me to fight. If you had a problem, it would be discussed. Wenger never addressed me until I told him I was going. He talked to others, but not me. I feel like I never played for Arsenal. If people do not remind me, I forget about them. It's erased from my memory."
Wigan vs Arsenal
Wigan have failed to score in four of their seven Premier League games against Arsenal. The Latics have taken just one point from the Gunners in those seven matches but that did come in this fixture last season. On both occasions that Arsenal have defeated Wigan 1-0 in the Premier League the lone goal has been scored by Emmanuel Adebayor.Arsenal are unbeaten in their last 17 Premier League games, the best current run in the division.
Cesc Fabregas has assisted nine Adebayor goals in the past two seasons, the most productive partnership in the Premier League since August 2007. Just 36 per cent of Wigan's shots have hit the target this season, fewer than any other side.
Arsenal have played 90 through-balls this season, more than any other side.
Only five back-pass free-kicks have been awarded in the Premier League this season. Wigan and Arsenal account for three of them (Wigan 2, Arsenal 1).
Only five back-pass free-kicks have been awarded in the Premier League this season. Wigan and Arsenal account for three of them (Wigan 2, Arsenal 1).
Arsenal have mustered 12 goals in their last four league games. The Gunners have conceded three goals from long throws this season, a joint high.
A WIN IN THIS MATCH WILL INCREASE THE CONFIDENCE ON THE TEAM WHICH WILL HELP THEM TO OVERCOME THEIR OPPONENTS, VILLARREAL (champions league 2nd leg,quater final) AND CHELSEA (in FA CUP semi-final).....
Wigan vs Arsenal
Wigan have failed to score in four of their seven Premier League games against Arsenal. The Latics have taken just one point from the Gunners in those seven matches but that did come in this fixture last season. On both occasions that Arsenal have defeated Wigan 1-0 in the Premier League the lone goal has been scored by Emmanuel Adebayor.Arsenal are unbeaten in their last 17 Premier League games, the best current run in the division.
Cesc Fabregas has assisted nine Adebayor goals in the past two seasons, the most productive partnership in the Premier League since August 2007. Just 36 per cent of Wigan's shots have hit the target this season, fewer than any other side.
Arsenal have played 90 through-balls this season, more than any other side.
Only five back-pass free-kicks have been awarded in the Premier League this season. Wigan and Arsenal account for three of them (Wigan 2, Arsenal 1).
Only five back-pass free-kicks have been awarded in the Premier League this season. Wigan and Arsenal account for three of them (Wigan 2, Arsenal 1).
Arsenal have mustered 12 goals in their last four league games. The Gunners have conceded three goals from long throws this season, a joint high.
A WIN IN THIS MATCH WILL INCREASE THE CONFIDENCE ON THE TEAM WHICH WILL HELP THEM TO OVERCOME THEIR OPPONENTS, VILLARREAL (champions league 2nd leg,quater final) AND CHELSEA (in FA CUP semi-final).....
Gunners lose star trio to injury
Arsenal defender William Gallas has been ruled out for the remainder of the season by the medial knee ligament damage he suffered in Spain.The Gunners will also be without goalkeeper Manuel Almunia for three weeks, after he suffered an ankle injury in Tuesday night's 1-1 Champions League quarter-final first-leg draw with Villarreal.Full-back Gael Clichy will miss two weeks with a back injury, while Robin van Persie and Eduardo will undergo fitness tests on Friday before Saturday's Premier League match at Wigan।
The Gunners battled back to secure their draw at El Madrigal, where their Togo striker Emmanuel Adebayor netted his third goal in two games with a superb overhead kick.
They were already resigned to being without Almunia for next week's return at Emirates Stadium, and manager Arsene Wenger admitted on Wednesday he was expecting Gallas to be out for the rest of the season.
Arsenal do have veteran former Manchester United defender Mikael Silvestre fit again, however - so there is cover at the back for Gallas, who has been one of the Gunners' most consistent players over the past few months.
Gunners lose star trio to injury
Arsenal defender William Gallas has been ruled out for the remainder of the season by the medial knee ligament damage he suffered in Spain.The Gunners will also be without goalkeeper Manuel Almunia for three weeks, after he suffered an ankle injury in Tuesday night's 1-1 Champions League quarter-final first-leg draw with Villarreal.Full-back Gael Clichy will miss two weeks with a back injury, while Robin van Persie and Eduardo will undergo fitness tests on Friday before Saturday's Premier League match at Wigan।
The Gunners battled back to secure their draw at El Madrigal, where their Togo striker Emmanuel Adebayor netted his third goal in two games with a superb overhead kick.
They were already resigned to being without Almunia for next week's return at Emirates Stadium, and manager Arsene Wenger admitted on Wednesday he was expecting Gallas to be out for the rest of the season.
Arsenal do have veteran former Manchester United defender Mikael Silvestre fit again, however - so there is cover at the back for Gallas, who has been one of the Gunners' most consistent players over the past few months.
ARSENAL 1-1 VILLARREAL.....
Emmanuel Adebayor's stunning second-half bicycle kick gave Arsenal a hard-earned 1-1 draw against Villarreal in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final. Adebayor's 66th-minute winner came as Arsenal took control of the match in the final half-hour, but an excellent Villarreal side pushed them all the way to the whistle. Veteran midfielder Marcos Senna put the visitors ahead on 10 minutes with a stunning rifled shot from 25 yards as the home side dominated the early exchanges.
Villarreal had started the game brightly, dominating possession with passing and movement that saw them run their guests ragged in the early stages, and in the fourth minute Joan Capdevila's header was cleared off the line by Gael Clichy. Then, just inside the first 10 minutes, veteran midfielder Senna tried a long-shot from 25 yards that came perfectly off his right boot to curl in to the top-right corner and leave Manuel Almunia grabbing at thin air. The goal woke Arsenal up with a start, and they came in to the ascendancy with some good football. On 18 minutes Samir Nasri's left-foot effort drew a fine save from Diego Lopez in the Villarreal goal, and a minute later Clichy's header drew another excellent stop from the keeper.
As the game restarted the two sides were ruthless in closing each other down and denying chances; but when Arsenal calmed the pace down a little and focused on staying patient at the hour mark they slowly began to take control of the game. It was breathtaking: Adebayor got on the end of a long ball from the half-way line, controlled on his chest while surrounded by defenders, then rifled in a side-on bicycle kick past Diego Lopez.
It was just reward for Arsenal's endeavours and inspired the visitors to even greater domination that saw Adebayor, Walcott and Nasri all have further good chances. Villarreal had a late flourish that restored some pride, but they never looked like finding a winner. Arsenal closed out a draw that, in the context of their poor start, was a fantastic result, while Villarreal will travel to the Emirates Stadium having conceded what could well prove to be a critical away goal.
