Van Nistelrooy bust up with Raul

Ruud van Nistelrooy almost came to blows with Real Madrid teammate Raul Bravo at training yesterday.
DiarioSport says the Dutchman was stunned when shoved by Raul Bravo after collecting the ball during a training ground drill.
Van Nistelrooy, after picking himself up off the ground, went face-to-face with the defender before teammates jumped in to separate the pair before blows were exchanged.

Ballack almost join Barca

The agent of Michael Ballack made a last-ditch attempt to place the German at Barcelona in the Spring, it has been revealed.

DiarioSport says before agreeing a deal with Chelsea, Michael Becker made contact with Sandro Rosell in an attempt to revive a dream move to the Nou Camp for his client.
But Rosell informed Becker at the time that he was no longer a member of Barca's board, having left his position some months earlier. It was two years ago when Ballack entertained Rosell in Munich with a BBQ at his luxury villa - and reportedly wore a Barcelona cap. Rosell and Ballack twice met over that time to discuss a potential move to the Nou Camp.
In the end, Becker agreed a mega deal, believed to be worth £130,000-a-week, with Chelsea chief Peter Kenyon.

Board apologizes to Benitez

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has received an apology from his board following the anonymous attack on his management.
However, the Liverpool Echo says it has emerged the culprit has still not identified himself to the manager, nor shown any remorse for the comments which caused such embarrassment.
Benitez said: "I didn't speak to the chairman on Saturday, but I know he is supporting me and I say to the chairman, Rick Parry and the board thank you because it's good to hear things like this.
"I know they were really worried about what happened, but I know I have their support. They are happy with the way we are working."

Cassano is over

Antonio Cassano may have played his last game for Real Madrid.
Real confirmed yesterday that Cassano had been banned from training with the first team after his blow-up at coach Fabio Capello. The striker will be separated from the senior squad for a minimum of 15 days.
However, Real's board are already discussing the Italian's sale in January and are seriously considering keeping him away from first team training until he is sold.
Serie B outfit Napoli have been mentioned as a possible destination.

AC target Barca pair

AC Milan are seeking talks with Barcelona over two of their midfielders.
Milan directors want to add another midfielder to coach Carlo Ancelotti's squad in the style of prime playmaker Andrea Pirlo. After the failed experiments of Vikash Dhorasoo and Johann Vogel, Milan are now turning their sights to Barca schemer Xavi.
Ancelotti is a huge fan of the Spain international and has recommended the player to his board.
Should Barca reject Milan's approach, the Rossonero will ask about Andres Iniesta's availability as an alternative.

Dunga wants Adriano to help himself

Brazil coach Dunga has criticised Inter Milan striker Adriano after leaving him out of his latest squad selection.
Adriano, in Brazil on leave from Inter, was snapped by two local newspapers partying into the early hours at a night club, says Gazzetta dello Sport.
"I want to help Adriano, but first of all he must help himself," said Dunga. "He's having a difficult time, therefore he must be focused on the job.
"He must change his behavior away from the pitch. The same can be said for Ronaldo."

Juve power by Agnelli

Juventus president Giovanni Cobolli Gigli has revealed the Agnelli family will push the boat out for coach Didier Deschamps to build a Scudetto challenging squad should his team win promotion this season.
Top of Juve's shopping list is Udinese centre-forward Vincenzo Iaquinta, who has declared he will leave Udine should a big club come in for him.
"The Agnelli family will finance the rebuilding of the squad," said Cobolli Gigli today.
Juve GM Alessio Secco also said: "The will of the club is to construct a team worthy of its history, to place us in a position to compete with the best in Italy and in Europe."

Diver Gudjohnsen

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has slated his former striker Eidur Gudjohnsen ahead of tonight's Champions clash at Barcelona.
He claimed Gudjohnsen has learnt to cheat since moving to Barca last summer and was scathing about the way he won a penalty last weekend. Mourinho said: "I know the number of penalties Barca have at home. I know times they play against 10 players.

"And it's a bit surprising because Eidur played in English football all his life and three months later he gets that penalty. It's the Spanish competition.
"It's a praise to English football because in English football players are not allowed to do that. It's a praise to the English Press because if the players do that in England the Press kill them."
Gudjohnsen was accused of diving to win a penalty against Recreativo Huelva last weekend.
But Barca boss Frank Rijkaard retaliated angrily to the criticism. He said: "I don't care what Mourinho says. It's a poor man's mind that says such things.
"Only the losers complain about a result and we are working honestly. Barca don't have to cheat to win games."
Mourinho also called for Italian referee Stefano Farina to keep control of the spectacle.
He said: "My desire is that all the teams on the pitch want to be the best - Barcelona, Chelsea and Mr Farina and his assistants. That's my dream.
"If that happens the game will be fantastic and I think we all have a big responsibility because people around the world want to see the game."
Lionel Messi, the player Mourinho accused of play-acting last season, refused to be drawn on the diving controversy.
But he admitted: "I will do what I have to win games."

Kia set for £80million hand shake

West Ham United chairman Terence Brown is close to completing the club's sale to Kia Joorabchian.

The Sun says Brown met with representatives of Joorabchian and a group of legal representatives to finalise an £80million buyout.
Club chiefs hope to finally announce the deal on Friday.
Joorabchian's takeover bid has dragged on since early September.
Joorabchian and his lawyers had a good look at West Ham's books and are eager to rubber-stamp their takeover.
Brown - who insisted he would only sell to the right buyer who has the long-term interests of the club at heart - is set to walk away after 12 years at the helm with a windfall of around £27m.
Rival bidder, Icelandic biscuit baron Eggert Magnusson, did not even get the chance to meet with the Hammers' board.

Ferguson hit back at critics

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson wants Michael Carrick's critics to start concentrating on the positive aspects of the midfielder's game.

The £18.6million summer signing from Tottenham followed produced his best Red Devils performance so far in Saturday's astounding four-goal hammering of Bolton at the Reebok Stadium.
So, after a couple of months in which many pundits wondered precisely why Ferguson has invested so much money in a player many argue is not quick, hardly a tigerish tackler and does not score that often, the evidence is now forthcoming.
"People are always picking on things players can't do whereas they should actually be concentrating on the things they can," said the United boss.
"Michael is one of those unassuming quiet guys, who just goes about his job and never gives the ball away.
"But his range of passing can win you games. He has great potential and is a real Manchester United player."

Sissoko won't change

Liverpool midfielder Mohamed Sissoko will not change his style of play despite constantly falling foul of referees.

The Mali international has already been booked five times this season, adding to his 11 yellow cards and one red from last term.
His predicament has already caused boss Rafael Benitez to jump to his defence and insist the 21-year-old has become an easy target for officials.
Benitez claimed: "It is easier to book Momo than it is to caution Rio Ferdinand or Steve Gerrard."
Sissoko, who has so far avoided cautions in the Champions League group stage, said: "I try to do my job well regardless of how I am treated by referees; I will not change the way I play to suit the referees.
"But it is difficult when a referee books me within 15 minutes for my first tackle.
"If I get two yellow cards then it is no good for the team and for a long period in the game I have to be careful.
"But I cannot play any other way, it is always 100%. I know the best way for me to play and I hope it does not upset referees."

Beckham insist happiness in Real

David Beckham insists he is happy at Real Madrid and has no intention of leaving the club in the January transfer window.

Beckham has been linked with moves to Tottenham or Celtic, while he has often declared a desire to end his playing days in the US.
"My future is here, my life is here," Beckham said.
"I'm not going to be talking to any teams - I'm not going anywhere in January."
Beckham said talks about renewing his contract at the Bernabeu are continuing after they were held up due to the change of chairman and coach at Real Madrid during the close season.
Beckham denied that Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon is trying to cut his wages as part of a new contract.
"That's a hypothetical question because that hasn't happened to me - it's not about the money for me," Beckham said.
"I want to stay with this team because I think we can win something this year."

Cassano banned

Real Madrid striker Antonio Cassano has been banned from first team training following a breach of discipline during the club's 3-1 weekend win at Gimnastic Tarragona.
The striker has struggled for a first team place this season, with coach Capello preferring Van Nistelrooy as a lone forward, only managing four games and one goal.
Now the Italian will miss training and receive a fine for his reported 'lack of respect' to Fabio Capello.
A statement from the club read, "We shall impose a fine in line with internal club rules."

Ronaldo furious with Capello

Ronaldo is reportedly furious with the snub he received from Real Madrid coach Fabio Capello on Saturday.

Despite being told to warm up in the second-half, Ronaldo was left on the bench by Capello as Real managed to overcome a competitive Nastic.
The Brazilian wasn't informed until the 85th minute that he wouldn't be entering the field on the night. On the way home, Ronaldo sat on his own, brooding, despite attempts from teammates to lift his spirits.
A source told AS: "Ronie's spirit has sunk. It is incomprehensible that Capello says in near circles that he's very satisfied with his work and then does this to him.
"He asked for work and seriousness from him and Ronie has fulfilled that."

Inter give Beckham a chance

Inter Milan are ready to go back to Real Madrid again in the coming months.
After landing Luis Figo, Santiago Solari and Esteban Cambiasso, Inter chiefs are now targeting Real's unsettled midfielder David Beckham.
Beckham, 32, has been a long-term target for Inter patron Massimo Moratti, who has been following the ex-England captain's contract saga with keen interest.
Tuttosport says Moratti is ready to join the battle for Becks and is counting on Milan's standing in the fashion world to convince the midfielder and wife Victoria to choose Inter over offers arriving from England, Japan and the United States.

Buffon can't commit beyond June

Gigi Buffon has again refused to commit himself to Juventus beyond this season.
The Italian goalkeeper said last night: "Chelsea or Real Madrid? This is the usual talk here that looks good in newspapers, but perhaps there is something to this.
"I can say, however, that I have still not made any decision on my future, there are many considerations to make, but I reserve them for June when the season is finished.
"I always decide very late on. I did that this season when I decided to remain in B.
"There are two solutions for my future: I stay or I leave, but it is not the moment to speak about this, I prefer to concentrate myself on the current season.
"We will decide after that ..."

Ferguson furious with Ronaldinho failure

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson was furious at missing out on Ronaldinho three years ago, claims former PSG chief Rodolphe Albert.
Albert believes United, led by then chief executive Peter Kenyon, had reached full agreement with Roberto Assis, the agent-brother of Ronaldinho, and he said: "Roberto had concluded an agreement in 2003. But United made transfer offers that were unacceptable."
PSG began looking at interest from Real Madrid.
He added: "Nike were panicking and worked twice as hard to get him to a club stamped with their swoosh and that was Barcelona."

Wenger open door to Beckham

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger hasn't ruled out a summer move for Real Madrid midfielder David Beckham.
Wenger insisted last week he wouldn't considering any new signings for January, but told the People he agreed Beckham's age - he'll be 32 next May - would not stop him potentially looking at him come the summer.
Wenger said: "His age would not prevent me but, at the moment, I'm focused on this season."

Ferguson Huntelaar hunt

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson will be given £12 million in January to bid for Ajax striker Klaas Jan Huntelaar.

The News of the World says the Glazer family are pushing out the boat for Fergie with £35 million being made available.
Huntelaar, 23, is one of the most prolific strikers in Europe, and scored 33 goals in the Eredivisie last term.
Ferguson has been massively impressed by the player's form for Ajax and Holland, and is keen to add him to his attacking options at Old Trafford.
Ajax only signed Huntelaar back in January from Heerenveen, but a bid of £12million would double their outlay on the player, and it seems unlikely they would reject such a vast transfer sum.

Saha better than van Nistelrooy

Wayne Rooney says Manchester United teammate Louis Saha is a better player than Ruud van Nistelrooy.

United have shrugged off Van Nistelrooy's £12 million summer switch to Real Madrid by making their best start to a season in years.
Saha has filled the gap by netting six goals already this term, and Rooney declared: "I've had to adjust a little bit because Ruud and Louis are two different players, and you need to do different things at times.
"But Louis is a bit better running in behind than Ruud was and is also stronger and faster.
"So playing with Louis gives me more time to get on the ball.
"To play with Ruud was good because I could learn a lot from him. He is probably one of the most, if not the most, naturally gifted strikers around today.
"We knew we'd miss his goals, but Louis has come in and done really well for us."

All pressure on Barca

Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard admits the squad goes into their clash with Barcelona this week in a relaxed mood.

Lamps said: "It's nice to go to Barcelona without the pressure - but we shouldn't get lulled into that.
"If we go there without pressure and get the result that Barcelona are capable of handing out, then it won't be good for us in terms of the qualifying group and the team in general.
"We need to go there and continue with our form and our play and make sure we're mentally on the ball.
"All it's about at the moment is qualifying.
"It's a great arena of football but we can use that as a positive as well. We'll be playing in one of the greatest places you can play football.
"It's not the time to say we're going to win the Champions League.
"We hope and want to be successful in everything we do - in the league and in Europe - but it's much too early to say.
"Europe is such a difficult competition that we've got to keep playing and improving if we're going to do anything."

I won't change for fans

Arsenal boss Thierry Henry shrugged off barracking from his own fans after Saturday's 1-1 draw with Everton.
After 66 minutes of watching the Gunners try to walk the ball into the net in search of an equaliser to Tim Cahill's 10th-minute strike, fans demanded a bit of old-fashioned welly.

They screamed 'shoot' at Henry when they got frustrated over a pass from Tomas Rosicky.
But Henry is in no mood to compromise. He said: "I would die like that, playing that type of football. There are no questions about that, no questions.
"I don't know if the fans are frustrated. I keep on hearing them shouting 'shoot'.
"I don't know what they're trying to say or trying to do. But I think they're getting sucked in by what some people are saying.
"We scored some amazing goals at Reading last week and nobody said 'shoot' then. Against Everton, we created the same chances but the finishing wasn't what you expect. That's just the way it is.
"Fans are fans and like to express the way they feel. That's the way it is but as soon as we came back into the game 1-1, we went forward."
Henry added: "Everton came with a plan, like Villa and Boro did. It seems we're going to have that all season, they play 4-4-2 everywhere and then when they come to us, it's 4-5-1. We have to deal with it. On the other side it was a lack of concentration that meant we went behind. At the end, this was a point won.
"Once more we started the game by shooting ourselves in the foot by leaving Cahill alone like that for the goal.
"I know he got a bit of luck by controlling it with his stomach and the ball falling right in front of him. But, from the start, he was alone in the box and you simply can't do that.
"Then we had a go - more than a go. But on the other side it was important to not lose the game.
"Everton are just behind us and they would have been two in front if they'd won the game."

Sheringham lead West Ham out of losing streak

A first half goal from veteran Teddy Sheringham and a second ten minutes from time by Hayden Mullins brought West Hams eight match losing streak to an end.
Blackburn managed a consolation goal deep into injury time but this result eased some of the pressure on a beleaguered Hammers boss.
"It has been a long wait," said a relieved Alan Pardew.

"We did get very, very nervous but it's a great win for this club and the fans and players deserve it.
"I thought the players were very brave. This is not a place for hiding, you have to stand tall and be counted and they did that."
But Pardew was keen to also thank the fans for playing an important part in the win at Upton Park.
Under pressure after such a poor run of defeats, the manager was pleased to see plenty of support from the supporters, who created an intimidating atmosphere at kick-off with chants of "there's only one Alan Pardew".
"The fans were special," he added. "They showed the quality that some grounds can't get.
"I'm not the most emotional of people but I was a little bit choked at the start, with the way they backed me, and I thank them for that.
"I thought Mark Hughes changed it tactically at half time realising that Ted (Sheringham) wasn't going to go and close full backs down so they started dominating play and we got nervous and defended deep.
"You have to dig deep then and show your character - we had chances on the break though, and unfortunately didn't take them.
"When we got two I thought we were home and dry, but in the West Ham way we let them have a goal."
Pardew now hopes the Hammers second win of the campaign will kick start their climb out of the relegation zone.
"That will help because the pressure does begin to mount and perhaps we can go back to that quality and exuberance we showed last year," added Pardew.

Real offer £30 million for Gerrard

Real Madrid are reviving their bid for Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard.
The Spanish giants tried for Gerrard under the charge of former president Florentino Perez and are to try again in the summer with current supremo Ramon Calderon putting together a lucrative financial package for the midfielder.
The Daily Star Sunday says Real are willing to offer £30 million for Gerrard, who sports director Pedja Mijatovic sees as a better option alongside Mahamadou Diarra in midfield than Emerson.

Villa bid for Keane

Aston Villa will bid for Tottenham striker Robbie Keane in January.
The News of the World says Villa manager Martin O'Neill is set to test Tottenham's resolve with a January transfer-window move for the Republic of Ireland international.
And if that bid fails, he will make a further attempt to lure Keane away from White Hart Lane next summer.
O'Neill has had a £20m transfer kitty made available by Villa's new American owner Randy Lerner - and he is determined to add some essential quality to his squad.

Newcastle bid for Hammer's duo

West Ham United are bracing for a double bid from Newcastle United for striker Dean Ashton and defender Anton Ferdinand.
The Daily Star Sunday says Newcastle will make a major offer for both young players when the winter transfer window opens in January.
Liverpool are also keen on Ferdinand.

Real still hopping for £100 million Messi

Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon hasn't given up his interest in Barcelona superkid Lionel Messi.
The Argentine whiz was a target for Real presidential candidates before Calderon's election victory over the summer.
DiarioSport says sources close to Calderon insist he hasn't shelved plans to prise Messi away from the Nou Camp and would even consider to paying his £100 million buyout clause should the youngster indicate he's ready to quit Barca.

Middle East offer Real trio

Middle Eastern clubs have tabled mega offers for three of Real Madrid's senior players.
DiarioSport says clubs from Qatar and the UAE have tabled contract offers in recent weeks for Ronaldo, Roberto Carlos and Michel Salgado.
All three players were offered deals far superior to what they are now on at Real.

Barca struck £100 million deal

Barcelona commercial chief Marc Ingla rates their new agreement with Nike as the most important contract in the club's history.

Barca agreed a new five-year contract extension with Nike through to 2013 and expect to earn a massive £100 million from the agreement.
"It's the best contract for Barca - if we evaluated it by the parameters of financial magnitude in the agreement," said Ingla.
"And still remains the fact that the most important company, Nike, is committed to promote world-wide our brand. That causes that the proposal with Nike is frankly unique for us.
"Also it is necessary to say that the agreement with Unicef is at the height of the one with Nike and is equal in importance."

We must play ugly

Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas says fans can be happy with yesterday's battling 3-1 win at Nastic.

"We took advantage of the chances that we had, which has been four," said Casillas. "Therefore we had maximum effectiveness.
"They played well, have run a lot. This one was the game that we wanted. We have not won like against Barca. The first twenty or thirty minutes we have been dictated by the game of Nastic. The goals were a correct award for our efforts.
"The pitch was very heavy. Madrid must win in many different ways. It was necessary to win with a lot of grit. I prefer to win now playing badly because we will soon play very well again. While we win everything goes well."

Scudetto is not lose yet

AC Milan players insist they're still in the Scudetto hunt, despite yesterday's dramatic derby defeat.

"It was difficult before, it's difficult now. We've never hidden that fact or pretended it would be easy," said Clarence Seedorf.
"We just have to keep going, as Milan are alive and kicking. We don't want to seek excuses for this defeat. We conceded two goals and struggled, but then came back and created plenty of opportunities by playing well.
"President Silvio Berlusconi came into the locker room afterwards to compliment the team. He said he was standing by our side and that we shouldn't feel knocked down by this result."
With seven goals and countless chances, it was quite an introduction to the Milan derby for summer signing Ricardo Oliveira.
"The team reacted really well in the second half, once we changed some things around," said the Brazilian.
"It was a very entertaining game and I'm sure the fans enjoyed themselves. As for the title race, last season Milan were a long way off Juventus, but managed to almost catch them by the end. It's not over yet."

Piero delighted with 200th goal

Juventus captain Alessandro del Piero was delighted to reach his 200 goal landmark against Frosinone yesterday.
"I think this will go down as one of the most important in my career," he said of the winner against Frosinone.

"There are three or four that make it into my top favourites. The Intercontinental Cup strike in Tokyo is among them, as it represented the crowning moment at the end of three years with the Scudetto and Champions League. We became World club champions."
The captain chose to stay in Turin even after their demotion to Serie B and insists he has many more games to play for this club.
"I have only one objective right now, which is to get back into Serie A as quickly as possible. This is the most important thing. I have no intention of retiring at the end of the season.
"Playing for such a long time in the same side could make you think it's the right time to leave, but I am 31 and am in good shape physically. I still want to play football and have fun."
The Bianconeri's 17-point penalty was cut to just nine by the CONI Arbitration last night and propelled them into the top half of the table.
"We did well today, as we got the full points, even if we have struggled over the past three or four games. We can't always win 3-0. It's crucial to get the victory even when you're not in the best shape, as these are the results that make the difference at the end. It's not easy for me, or the others, to adapt to Serie B."

No demand for Nesta

AC Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti has dismissed talk that Chelsea are chasing defender Alessandro Nesta.
He said: "It is not true that he will go to Chelsea. When he wants a player, Roman Abramovich never hides as he did for Shevchenko.

"Instead, for Nesta no demand has arrived."

Rooney prove critics wrong

Manchester United ace Wayne Rooney was delighted to net his hat-trick yesterday.
He said: "There has been a lot of talk by a lot of people over the last few weeks saying I couldn't do it any more, stuff like that, so the feeling when the first goal went in was brilliant.
"Although I am not too worried about not scoring as long as we get the result, it was a relief, especially as I had gone such a long time without scoring.
"To finish the hat-trick was nice. I am delighted and happy just to be back amongst the goals again and to have secured the three points in what was a big game for us. I'm really proud and happy with the performance."

Mourinho hails Hilario

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has concerns over his strikers after yesterday's 2-0 win at Sheffield United.
Mourinho revealed he lost Andriy Shevchenko before kick-off with a leg muscle injury - then watched as Didier Drogba limp out of action at the interval with a damaged right foot.

Both are now big doubts for the visit to Barcelona but Mourinho insisted he would seek inspiration from third-choice goalkeeper Hilario, whose early penalty save helped seal today's success.
Mourinho said: "In the first game against Barcelona we played without two keepers and maybe now is the time to play without two forwards and I will just take defenders and midfielders."
Mourinho would not be drawn on the extent of Shevchenko's injury but added of the withdrawal of Drogba: "It was not a precaution - he could not play. He is in a lot of pain at the moment."
Mourinho hailed Hilario - whom he had preferred to the fit-again Carlo Cudicini - for his 17th minute spot-kick save when he dived to his left to deny Blades striker Danny Webber.
His heroics helped the champions ride out an early storm in front of a passionate home crowd before Frank Lampard fired the visitors ahead in the 43rd minute and Michael Ballack's header sealed the points.
Mourinho said: "He (Hilario) is amazing. He is cool and comfortable in goal and I think the penalty save was a three-point save. You never know if Sheffield United are 1-0 up.
"I am happy with the way we fought against difficult opposition. They have their style and they play with their strength and power. They are a team with a lot of enthusiasm."

Liverpool hit top gear

After a difficult week, Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez saw his team produce a thrilling performance in yesterday's 3-1 victory over Aston Villa.
Benitez has come in for some criticism from within his own boardroom, but said: "After what happened at Old Trafford we had to show people we have good players here.
"The first half was as good as anything we have produced this season, apart maybe for the first 30 minutes against Galatasaray.
"We started with a high tempo and maintained it. And the players were able to give the fans what they wanted.

"The players were able to enjoy their skills and they came in at half-time knowing they had played well.
"The second half was a little more difficult, Villa came back at us, but we were able to control the situation and make sure we took the points.
"Basically the players enjoy being able to show people what they can do."
He added: "We showed we have quality and if we can play consistently like we played in this game then I believe we will soon be much higher in the table.
"This win will give us more confidence going into the Champions League game against Bordeaux on Tuesday. The lads knew they were reaching the right levels."
Liverpool, though, have doubts about the fitness of Mohamed Sissoko and Steven Gerrard, who both picked up ankle injuries in the second half.
Villa boss Martin O'Neill accepted his side were outplayed in the first half, but hailed their brave comeback after the break.
He said: "We were a bit in awe of the situation, Liverpool played very well in the first half, but we contributed to that. We didn't get close enough to them and they punished them like a very good side will do.
"I'm not into damage limitation, I want to get something from the game. If we concede while trying to get something back, so be it.
"We showed spirit and determination in the second half and that has epitomised the side for much of the season.
"We are aspiring to where Liverpool are, you want to be at the very top and we will keep working hard and try to do better. It will take a bit of time, but after 10 games I have been very pleased with the team.
"A willingness to fight back when the cause was all but lost. That is what we are trying to get to.
"It was probably a reality check for us and the fans. If we had gone on like we did in the first half I would have been very disappointed, but we now see it is not all about determination and character. It's about quality."

Wenger blast Toffees

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger hit out at Everton's tactics after yesterday's 1-1 draw at Emirates stadium.
Wenger saw the Gunners come from behind to salvage a point thanks to a late free-kick from Robin van Persie.
Tim Cahill had fired Everton ahead in the 10th minute and the Merseysiders packed men behind the ball in a bid to protect their lead.

The Arsenal boss was annoyed by David Moyes' tactics and accused the visitors of time-wasting.
Wenger said: "Every game we don't win is a massive disappointment.
"It was very frustrating against a team with zero shots on or off target and when you have 70% of the ball.
"From the first minute to the last the goalkeeper was placing goal-kicks from the left and then moving them to the right.
"They were standing in front of the ball at free-kicks. It was negative but that's the game is going at the moment.
"It's like a film you have seen 10 times. It is becoming boring."
Arsenal were not at their best, however, and the home crowd even took out their anger on skipper Thierry Henry when he failed to collect a pass near the end of the game.
Wenger backed Henry but admitted his strikers had been off colour.
The Arsenal boss said: "There was no real space and it was not easy up front.
"We played well but it's not excellent when you cannot score.
"We lacked sharpness and vision in the final third. We didn't attack the ball well on crosses."
The Frenchman was also unhappy to see his team leak the early goal from a corner, handing the initiative to Everton.
Wenger said: "We mustn't put ourselves in a position where teams are comforted by that tactic.
"We have to be more rigorous on set-pieces like that and not concede goals.
"But that's easier to correct that if you can't make two passes.
"I have nothing against negative football if it is played with the right spirit."
Moyes was sent from the touchline in stoppage time as he gestured to referee Mike Riley about the amount of time being added.
The Everton boss was waving at Riley and pointing to his watch when the referee ordered him into the stands.
Moyes said: "It was added on time. He asked me to leave. I was pointing to my watch and he took it the wrong way.
"We lost a goal late on against Manchester City and I didn't want it to happen again."
Everton did not agree with Riley's decision to award the free-kick, from a foul by Lee Carsley on Tomas Rosicky, from which van Persie scored his 70th-minute equaliser.
Moyes said: "I don't think it was a free-kick.
"It was a gutsy performance, full of character and a different performance to what we've had this season.
"Our football has been good this season. We've made lots of chances but today we had to find another way to get a result.
"If we came here to play an open game, they would just cut through us.
"It was tough at times but it was a good draw. Our players deserve a big pat on the back.
"We were struggling. We had a bug in the camp. Joleon Lescott was out of position. We had three strikers on the bench and no midfielders."

Ronaldinho lead Barca to victory

Barcelona returned to display some of their best form in yesterday's 3-0 win over Recreativo.
Ronaldinho hit back at his detractors with two of the goals, including a rare headed effort, in a result which sees Barcelona move clear at the top of the Spanish League after Valencia's surprising defeat at Racing Santander.

Xavi also netted in the second-half with the best goal of the night.
Brazilian full-back Juliano Belletti found himself in acres of space on the right flank, from where he expertly picked out the advancing Spaniard, who sent a brilliant header past Laquait and into the Frenchman's far right-hand corner.
Barcelona coach Frank Rijkaard said afterwards: "We must keep working as a team. We deserved victory against a very organised rival.
"Ronnie has been again decisive, it is important to watch forwards. I always speak of the attitude, of the form of this team, we can improve, but the victory has been important.
"I am happy with the three goals, we could have scored some more, but Recreativo has played very well. The penalty? I never talk about the decisions of the referee, not when we won nor when we lose."

Beckham contract not his Capello's problem

Real Madrid coach Fabio Capello insists David Beckham's contract saga isn't an issue.
Capello told The Sun: "The contract is the club's problem, not mine.
"I've given my opinion. I see David Beckham as a right winger but I can choose other players in that position."

Play with pain makes Vieira furious

Inter Milan coach Roberto Mancini played down a furious row with Patrick Vieira at the end of last night's stunning 4-3 win over AC Milan.

There were mixed scenes at the final whistle, as some Nerazzurri players were jubilant, others relieved and Vieira was furiously trying to attack Mancini and assistant manager Sinisa Mihajlovic.
The former Arsenal man was angry that he had to carry on with an injury when Zlatan Ibrahimovic was replaced instead.
"I had noticed that Vieira was in pain, but I thought he could make it," insisted Mancini. "Ibrahimovic kept playing out wide, but was doing absolutely nothing. At the end Vieira got angry with me, but he had to stay on because I had no other central midfielders. So I preferred to keep him there."

Wenger won't move for Beckham

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has reiterated that he will not make a move for David Beckham in the January transfer window.

Beckham has slipped down the pecking order at Real Madrid this term and has said that he may look to move on in January if his lot does not improve.
These comments have once again led to speculation that Wenger could lodge a bid, but the Frenchman is happy with his options and will not be raiding the market in January.
"I have said already that in January we will not be on the transfer market," Wenger said on Sky Sports News when questioned on the prospect of luring Beckham to North London.
"There will be no holidays so we will not be on holiday, but we will not be on the market."

Benitez fed up with rotation defence

Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez is set to change his side for the 99th time in succession against revitalised Aston Villa on Saturday.

But the Spaniard admits to growing tired to the constant match-by-match references to his system of managing players.
Pointing to other major clubs to support his methods, he said: "I suppose it will be another statistic to discuss, but it is not unusual.
"It is not just Liverpool, all the big clubs change their side regularly to rest their players.
"There are other ways to be successful, sure, but this is working. We have won four finals in two years so I'm happy with it.
"Some of my players have already played almost 2,000 minutes this season for their clubs and country. That is 20 matches already.
"Smaller clubs maybe play 40 games a season, my players can be involved in 75 and they need protection."

Board question Benitez

Rafa Benitez's position at Liverpool is under pressure after a board member reportedly expressed concerns over the direction the club is being taken by the Spaniard.
The Mirror says directors are already giving up hope of ending the championship drought that has already lasted 16 seasons.
And one influential figure on the six-man board revealed that Benitez's leadership of the team was being questioned.

"We have paid too many inflated prices and inflated wages for players who are not doing the job," said the director, who is concerned for the future of the club but wants to remain anonymous to avoid a boardroom split.
"When it comes to any manager, the view of the board has always been to let them get on with it. We do not believe in interfering.
"But the day will come when we may not be that way inclined any more. We have always been very respectful of any manager we appoint. The view has always been the same one, the right one - that the manager must stand or fall by his efforts.
"But one thing that we can't hide is that we have to be in the Champions League every season and if we do not qualify it will be a major problem.
"The budget we have set up is still in balance if we do not get into the Champions League. But if we are to make investment in the team we are talking about £20m of income we need to have every season."
Criticism of Benitez - who still has the backing of chairman David Moores - was aimed at his constant team changing and the lack of any pattern or passion in last weekend's Old Trafford defeat.
"We were looking to do something in the league. We thought it would be this year and it's not going to happen now.
"Normally, by the time you get to October, you'd expect the manager to know his best team and stick with it but there are no signs of that happening now. I don't think he could tell you what his best team is."

I can't remember a thing

Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech has spoken for the first time since his horror collision with Reading midfielder Stephen Hunt a fortnight ago.
Cech is still suffering "horrible headaches" from the terrible head injury he suffered, which fractured his skull. He can't remember anything of the collision.
"I have seen it on TV once and I don't want to speak about this for the moment," he told Chelsea TV. "For me it is very difficult, but the club are dealing with it. I am just concentrating on coming back to fitness.

"I have tried to think about what happened and all I remember is shaking hands before the game started.
"I remember the warm-up, I remember all the way from the hotel to the stadium because I always take the programme and I read a little bit.
"I went around the pitch, I wanted to see what the pitch was looking like.
"I remember going out of the dressing-room, ready with the kit. The handshake is the last thing because John Terry lost the toss and I had to run to the other side of the pitch. I don't even remember the kick-off, and I don't remember the incident."
Cech added: "The reaction has been very moving. The support has been fantastic from everyone. The players, the manager, the staff, supporters - everyone at Chelsea.
"I got so many cards and letters from people outside, not involved in Chelsea, and I want to thank them all for that.
"I am okay. I feel better, I am improving and I was happy to be at the training ground to see the lads."

Pardew backed by Kia

Kia Joorabchian is supportive of West Ham boss Alan Pardew.

The Iranian businessman is putting together a takeover bid for the club and a source told the Daily Mail:"Kia recognises the need for everyone to pull together.
"Talk of secret meetings with potential replacements is just futile. Alan is the manager and he has Kia's full support and backing, although he expects a quick improvement.
"The supporters demand a passionate manager, who reflects their own hopes and ambitions, which is why Alan is the manager. It's a worrying time and the need is for the players to deliver now.
"Anyone looking to buy into the club will want them towards the top half of the table and in a position to compete for a place in Europe.
"West Ham need a win - quickly - but this isn't the time to panic, especially when the manager retains the backing of fans."

Beckham must drop earnings

David Beckham must expect a drop in earnings if he is to sign a new contract with Real Madrid.
Real president Ramon Calderon has declared he expects Becks to sign a new deal, with club sources adamant they won't allow the midfielder to leave during the January market.
However, if Beckham is to play on in Madrid next season, the former Manchester United ace must accept a cut in his club earnings.
Real will seek to tie Beckham to a new contract worth less than his current deal and also will attempt a greater share of image rights - which are currently split 50-50.

Palermo bigger than AC Milan

Inter Milan striker Julio Cruz rates Palermo as their greatest title threat this season.
The fit-again Argentine said: "My great dream is to win the Scudetto on the field this season - as I did in Holland and Argentina.
"For me, our greatest rival will be Palermo.
"It would be beautiful to score a goal in the derby, but it is better to win. The tension at Milan does not interest me, nor does the refereeing.
Their attack is in crisis? I just hope that Paolo Maldini doesn't play, he is one of the greats."

Kaka admits derby six pointer

AC Milan star Kaka admits their looming derby with Inter is a genuine six-pointer in the title race this season.

The Rossoneri returned to winning ways in the midweek round, earning a 1-0 win away at Chievo after a series of draws and the shocking defeat to Palermo over the weekend.
"This is a very important match - we are motivated to do well," said Kaka on Thursday, chatting with his supporters on the club's website.
"I think this derby is worth six points, seeing as if we win we earn three points and they lose three points as well. We want to do all we can to stop our main rivals.
"We still believe that we can do well in the Serie A and we are also concentrating on the Champions League, because it remains a special title for a football player.
"However, the championship also has its special charm this year," continued the 24-year-old.
"I must admit that we are not enjoying much luck at the moment - we have created many opportunities in the past few matches and were not able to score.
"I don't believe that the World Cup influenced our performances, but the fact that we have a match scheduled every three days would cause problems to any team.
"Milan are a winning side, they proved this in the past and I am sure they will prove it again in the future - I have no doubts about this," concluded Kaka.

Gerrard deny rift with Benitez

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has brushed off talk of a rift with manager Rafa Benitez.

Gerrard's form has been criticised of late as debate rages as to whether he is at his best on the right - where Benitez wants him.
But Gerro said: "The position is not the issue. When you are a young player breaking through you want to play in your favourite position, you are desperate to get into the team.
"But I am 26 now, I have to think of the team first. If the manager needs me to do a job on the right or the left I've got to accept it.
"He knows where I'd like to play but I also understand there's a job to be done for the team and I need to do what the manager wants.
"I've heard he's said the order of priority is 'team, club, supporters, players' and I agree.
"Last season we were third in the league with 82 points - a club record - and won the FA Cup. And 75 per cent of the time I played on the right."
As for his own lack of form he added: "There's always been pressure on me since I became Liverpool captain and I can understand the criticism.
"I know I'm not playing at the standard I want to play at but I feel my best form's around the corner.
"A little fluky goal or a big performance will turn my form around. I know I'm a good player and good players have dips in form. And that is happening at the moment.
"Certain people expect me to go out every game and be man of the match and score from 30 yards. But it is impossible to do that.
"I've had a couple of dips in form in my career but this is the first since Rafa took over.
"I had a couple of dips under Gerard Houllier and came back a better player. Hopefully I'll do the same again. I know my best form is just around the corner, I can feel it coming back in training."

Mourinho is more than cheque book

Sheffield United boss Neil Warnock says no-one should judge Chelsea's Jose Mourinho as a cheque-book manager.

Warnock said: "He didn't have any money at Porto and won the Champions League. You don't do that without having something up your sleeve. Porto was a superb mark on his CV. He was a little bit fortunate but you need a bit of luck.
"He had to be tactically aware at Porto. They couldn't play football because they weren't good enough.
"You could say Chelsea are not as enjoyable to watch as Manchester United or Arsenal but they've got the package and that's why they win championships.
"When they play the lesser teams they show the spirit that my teams have got. But they also have immense ability as that's what the money buys you. They've a fantastic team spirit and they seem to thrive on adversity. It's a great recipe. It is a team with an English mentality."
The Blades are fourth from bottom and desperate for every point.
But Warnock added: "I don't see it as a cup tie sort of match. I feel we are established in the Premiership now. It's a tough match against two-time champions who don't lose too many games and it's a challenge.
"But we play our own way and we are not going to adjust. We're capable of giving them a good game."