Fergie fires title warning

Sir Alex Ferguson fired a warning to the club’s title rivals following Wedensday’s 5-0 demolition of Wigan, claiming the Red Devils would only get better in 2010. The result leaves United just two points off the EPL summit. "The second half of the season is when experience counts and we have that and we have the squad,” said the fiery Scot afterwards. "The key is getting the defence fit and then we'll be a much better team." Nemanja Vidic’s return from injury has allowed Ferguson to select a more familiar defence in their last two matches and United have responded with comfortable wins over Hull and Wigan. Regular defenders Rio Ferdinand, Johnny Evans and John O'Shea however are still sidelined. "There is no doubt that having a settled defence makes all the difference to us," added Fergie.

Nando is world’s greatest goal ace!

Steven Gerrard believes Fernando Torres is undoubtedly the best striker in the world after becoming the fastest player to net 50 goals in Liverpool’s history. The Spanish hitman claimed the record with a 93rd winner for the Reds against Aston Villa on Tuesday in what was just his 72nd game for the club. "Everyone knows that when Fernando is on form he is the best in the world, the best bar none,” said club captain Gerrard after the Villa game. "He can score goals like this one, goals out of nothing even after he has experienced a quiet game. That's what makes him so special.” The result, Gerrard said, was also massively important for the stuttering Merseysiders who languish in seventh place on the EPL table. “It could spark the run that drives us into the top four."

Cristiano who?

Manchester United are not missing Cristiano Ronaldo and the EPL table reflects that, claims Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson. The Red Devils were tipped by many to come up short this season after selling the Portuguese international to Real Madrid for a world record £80million in June. "People looked at us losing Ronaldo and saw that as being crucial and they felt we wouldn't be nearly as good without him,” said Ferguson on Wednesday. "Cristiano was an unbelievable player, but we have adjusted to it. There is only one point difference." And the fiery Scot is correct because unbelievably United are just one point worse off than at this stage last year and have scored more goals. Ronaldo scored over 60 goals in his final two seasons at Old Trafford.

Vidic headed for the door and other transfer gossip

Manchester United’s inspirational central defender Nemanja Vidic is a £30m target for Real Madrid, but only at the end of the season. According to reports, the Serbian international wants to move because his wife has failed to adapt to the English lifestyle. United are reportedly lining up Everton's exciting 18-year-old Jack Rodwell and Porto’s Bruno Alves as replacements. Elsewhere, Liverpool are back in the hunt for Real Madrid's Dutch striker Ruud van Nistelrooy, but only on six-month loan; Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has revealed that he is an admirer of Manchester City striker Craig Bellamy; Palermo defender Simon Kjaer has rejected a £12m move to Manchester City as he claiming he would rather join Manchester United; Birmingham are planning a £2m move for Blackburn striker Benni McCarthy; and Manchester United are lining up a £20m January move for Lyon goalkeeper Hugo Lloris.

Spanish giants rubbish Arab buyout claims

Spanish giants Real Madrid have denied that they are on the verge of a billion dollar takeover by the Arab Sheiks that own Manchester City. According to reports on Wednesday, Sheik Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan made a €1 billion ($1.44 million) offer to buy the legendary club. Real however refuted this in a statement on their website, claiming the "so-called interest and the existence of any offer to acquire Real Madrid are false." A Spanish newspaper reported on Sunday that Sheik Mansour made the offer to president Florentino Perez and that discussions would take place next week. Madrid is one of four clubs in La Liga that is owned by its members and not by a private entity. The others are Barcelona, Athletic Bilbao and Osasuna.

Blues will survive DD loss - Ancelotti

Chelsea will be fine without Didier Drogba in the coming weeks insists boss Carlo Ancelotti. The burly striker is on African Cup of Nations duty with fellow Cote d’Ivoire star Salomon Kalou, Ghana's Michael Essien and Nigeria's Jon Mikel Obi. "Didier has scored 19 goals but without him, this year, we've done very well," said Ancelotti on Wednesday. “We won three games in the Champions League without him. We can do the same in the EPL." If Cote d’Ivoire makes the final of the ACN on 31 January, the Blues will be without Drogba and Kalou for four EPL matches and an FA Cup tie against Watford. "In some matches we can change the system," added Ancelotti, who is also without Nicolas Anelka because of a muscle injury. "We've played the diamond in every match but we can use our wingers in some matches. It depends on the match."

Red Devils give VDS special leave

Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar has been granted special leave to be with his ill wife. Annemarie van Kesteren suffered a brain hemorrhage on 23 December. She is just 36-years-old. "Annemarie had a problem over in Holland a week ago and has been admitted to hospital," said Red Devils manager Sir Alex Ferguson on Wednesday. "That is the best place for her to be. They have examined her twice and are trying to get to the root of it." Van der Sar has not played since suffering a knee injury in United's 3-0 win over Everton on 21 November. “I have told Edwin to stay over there. There is no point in him being here," added Ferguson. "The best thing is for him to be with his wife. Hopefully she will make a good recovery."

United flop looking elsewhere and other transfer gossip

Manchester United flop Nani is set to leave Old Trafford with his representatives talking to clubs in Spain and Italy. United offered Nani plus £10m to Benfica recently for the highly-rated Argentine winger Angel Di Maria but Nani refuses to return to his native Portugal. The 23-year-old was signed for £14m from Sporting Lisbon and despite the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo has failed to nail down a regular starting place for United this season. He has not started a game for them since 31 October. Elsewhere, West Ham are tracking former Chelsea striker Adrian Mutu, now of Italian side Fiorentina, after failing to land Italian international Luca Toni; Liverpool are ready to offload Ryan Babel, Andriy Voronin and Andrea Dossena to fund a move for Galatasary winger Arda Turan; and Birmingham hope to sign German international striker Kevin Kuranyi.

Special One wants EPL return

Former Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho could be back in his familiar hunting ground as soon as next season after stating: "I want to come back to England." According to reports, Liverpool, Manchester City and Manchester United are all possible destinations, while a shock return to Chelsea is even being mooted. All Mourinho would say after watching Chelsea play ahead of their Champions League clash with his Inter Milan was: "I want to be back. I'm not the kind of guy to keep his feelings hidden. I have always said the same - I love it here, I love it here, I love it here." Mourinho won two EPL titles with Chelsea and has also tasted stellar success with Porto and Inter Milan. A return to the EPL is sure to send shivers down the spines of all the league’s other managers.

Berba backs United for four

Manchester United will hold off Chelsea and win a fourth consecutive EPL title, claims the club’s record signing Dimitar Berbatov. "It will be difficult because there are a lot of games left but it will be decided between us and Chelsea,” said the Bulgarian on Wednesday. "In the end, we will be on top because we have great players.” The Bulgarian singled out Wayne Rooney for special praise. “If Wayne can play 100 per cent, like he does in training, then nobody can stop him. He is fantastic and is still young and the future is ahead of him." Berbatov has been struggling with a knee injury in recent months and has been below his best. He has been putting off having an operation which will rule him out for three months. Despite this he scored in United’s recent 3-1 win over Hull, his first goal in two months.

Wenger doesn’t rue Fab injury

Arsenal have been rocked by an injury to inspirational captain Cesc Fabregas. The tiny midfield general aggravated an existing hamstring strain as a substitute in the Gunners impressive 3-0 win over Aston Villa at the weekend. He also scored two goals in the game. "We do not know yet if it is a recurrence of the pull or just scar tissue," said Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger on Tuesday. "If it is scar tissue then it is a few days, but if it is a reoccurrence, then it is three weeks out." Wenger, however, was adamant that he was right to play Fabregas against Villa. "I feel that I did the right thing, and would do it again. I put him on the bench and I knew before the game that if it was really needed, I would put him on.

Relieved Roon avoids Sir’s hair-dryer

Avoiding the wrath of manager Sir Alex Ferguson was all that Wayne Rooney could think of following Manchester United’s 3-1 win over Hull on Sunday. The England striker had earlier opened the scoring for United before his second-half clanger, in which he misjudged a backpass, led to a Hull penalty from which Craig Fagan equalised. This spurred him on to a match winning performance in which he forced a Hull own goal and then set up Dimitar Berbatov for United’s third. "It's a relief," said Rooney afterwards. "Their equaliser was a mistake by myself and it's not a nice feeling. Thankfully we got the win, or the manager won't have been too pleased." The win lifted United to within two points of EPL leaders Chelsea. "I didn't want to let the lads down, but it happens, and we got the win in the end," added Rooney.

Star Italians ‘unsellable’ and other transfer gossip

Gianluigi Buffon and Giorgio Chiellini are "unsellable", according to Juventus director of sport Alessio Secco. His comments come amidst reports that both Manchester United and City are chasing the two Italian international goalkeeper and defender. According to Il Corriere dello Sport, both Manchester clubs feel Juventus's elimination from the Champions League leaves them susceptible to large bids for their star players. Elsewhere, Craig Bellamy has rubbished claims he wants to quit Manchester City and denies he led a player rebellion in the wake of Mark Hughes' sacking; Bolton are chasing veteran Real Madrid midfielder Guti; Tottenham are prepared to let Russian flop Roman Pavlyuchenko leave and don’t necessarily need a replacement; and Manchester City are on the brink of signing Inter Milan defender Ivan Cordoba, who has fallen out with manager Jose Mourinho.

Robinho can be a City legend – Mancini

New Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini will do all he can to persuade Robinho to stay at the club. The Brazilian has been up and down for the Citizens this season, with reports suggesting he wants to return to La Liga in January. "The important thing for me is that Robinho stays here because he can earn a place in the history of the club,” said Mancini on Tuesday. "I don't know him very well and he doesn't know me but Robinho is a great player and I want him to stay with us," added the Italian, who started with the 25-year-old in his first game in charge of City. Robinho joined City from Real Madrid for £32.5m and remains the most expensive player in the EPL.

Gunners eyeing title

Arsene Wenger is eyeing the EPL title after Arsenal’s brilliant recent performances. Since their 3-0 defeat to Chelsea four weeks ago which left them 11 points off the lead, the Gunners have bounced back to close the gap to just four points with a game in hand. Said Wenger after their 3-0 demolition of high-flying Aston Villa: "I think it's a massive result for the team. When you look where we were a few weeks ago you have to give credit to the team. I believe this team is talented, is hungry, has a great spirit and for me they deserve to be successful. But we have not won anything yet. It makes it interesting now. We are in a strong position.” Since beating Arsenal, Chelsea have not won in the league - losing once and drawing four games. By contrast the Gunners have had four wins and a draw.

Mancini and Bellamy are chums

There is no problem between Roberto Mancini and Craig Bellamy despite the temperamental Welshman being left out of Manchester City’s win over Stoke at the weekend. Bellamy, who had become a firm fans favourite under the club’s previous manager Mark Hughes, was dropped in favour of Robinho for Mancini’s first game in charge of the ambitious club. "Bellamy is my friend," commented Mancini afterwards. "There is no problem. I spoke with him two days ago. We have two games in three days and I need all the players at 100%. Today we played Robinho. It is possible we will play Craig at Wolves on Monday." And of his first experience as a manager in the EPL, Mancini said: "The atmosphere was brilliant!"

Big disappointment for Hammers fans and other transfer gossip

Disappointment for West Ham fans – Bayern Munich striker Luca Toni claims the only move he will make is back to Serie A. The Italian international has been strongly linked with a move to the Hammers to join up with their manager Gianfranco Zola. But in what will come as disappointment to the East London club’s loyal fans, the World Cup winner is instead eyeing a move to Roma. Elsewhere, Arsenal are considering splashing out on Bordeaux's Moroccan international striker Marouane Chamakh; Manchester United and City are set to fight it out for the services of £12m-rated Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini; Portsmouth goalkeeper David James is "flattered" by the interest of Tottenham and would be keen on a move to boost his World Cup chances; and Liverpool are tracking former Lazio striker Goran Pandev on a free transfer next month.

Evans winning memories bagged

Manchester United defender Jonny Evans does not dwell on the past. According to a report in the News of the World newspaper, the young Northern Irishman has packed his EPL winners medal from last season into a plastic bag and stored it in a safe place. Why? Because he doesn’t want to get ahead of himself before nailing down a first team place. "You only have to look at this club to see how many young lads came through and played as many as 50 or 60 games,” Evans told the paper. "They leave United and spend the rest of their career going down and down. It's hard to stay at the top and you have to keep pushing yourself every day. That's why the medals I won last season just had to be put away immediately. They are now in a Marks and Spencer's bag back at home.”

Torres in quit threat

Fernando Torres will walk out on Liverpool if they do not qualify for next season’s Champions League. The Spaniard has consistently declared his loyalty to the Merseyside club but with Manchester City and Chelsea now preparing enormous bids for the club, this could be tested. The Spanish hitman left his previous club Atletico Madrid because they could not match his Champions League and trophy- winning dreams. Liverpool are currently languishing in eighth place in the EPL after a disastrous run of form that has seen them lose eight games this season, as compared to just two for the entire 2008-09 season!

Villa are mental powerhouses

Aston Villa have the mental strength to nail down a Champions League place this season. This is according to their manager Martin O’Neill who has led the Birmingham-based team to third in the EPL this season. They have won at Anfield and Old Trafford this season and have also beaten Chelsea at Villa Park. Expectation at the club is now very high. "We have shown we can compete and win against these teams but you have to do that more regularly. That applies to us, Spurs, Everton and Man City,” said O’Neill recently. "We had a great win at Old Trafford, expectation rises. If we lost at Sunderland, people would say we could not sustain it. We went again against Stoke and won the game. Last year we might not have been strong enough to do that. We have gained a wee bit of mental strength."

Striker blow for Red Devils

Manchester United’s already thin strike options suffered a blow on Sunday when it was announced that record signing Dimitar Berbatov needs knee surgery. The £32m Bulgarian has a ligament problem and is expected to be out of action for three months. According to reports, Berbatov has been playing through the pain barrier in recent months. United have suffered from injuries this season, in particular in defence. Berbatov’s absence is good news however for reserve striker Michael Owen who should start more games over the next couple of months. Other options up front for manager Sir Alex Ferguson include Federico Marcheda, Danny Wellbeck and Senegal international Mame Biram Diouf.

Mancini’s bold boast

New Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has boldly claimed that he will win at least five EPL titles. "I hope when I eventually leave, I'll leave the club with five league titles and four cups,” said the Italian on Sunday. "This season the target is the top four. Next season we want to be first in the Premier League." Mancini replaced Mark Hughes as manager of the ambitious club last weekend. He led Inter Milan to three Serie A titles in his previous management job.

Rio return looking dicey

It is looking increasingly unlikely that Rio Ferdinand will play again this season. The elegant Manchester United defender has not played since late October as he tries to recover from persistent back and calf injuries. He has now missed 13 games and United’s form has stuttered. "We gave Rio an injection just over two weeks ago so we have to let that settle for a week then he can go back into the gym," revealed United manager Sir Alex Ferguson on Sunday. "We are just hoping that pain goes away. There is no light at the end of the tunnel and it is difficult to put a timescale on a back injury. But I don't think he is too far away." If Ferdinand does not play his World Cup place may be in serious jeopardy.

Giggs’festive cheer

Manchester United legend Ryan Giggs has enjoyed Christmas with his family for the first time in years. The ageing star was given the day off by Sir Alex Ferguson because United played on 27 December against Hull. In past years they have always featured on Boxing Day which meant training on Christmas Day. "Until I had kids I never got excited about Christmas," revealed Giggs on Saturday. "You just can't. You have to concentrate on playing on Boxing Day and you are always travelling on Christmas Day. That is one of the downsides about being a footballer. Once you have kids it is hard opening the presents, then going off to training, so, to have Christmas Day off for the first time in my career is definitely welcomed." Giggs is married to Stacey and has two children, Libby and Zach.

Aguero most wanted and other transfer gossip

Argentine striker Sergio Aguero is officially the most wanted player in the EPL. Manchester rivals, United and City, and Chelsea are all determined to sign Diego Maradona’s son-in-law from Atletico Madrid. The 21-year-old is set to cost in the region of £40m with all three clubs trying their best to agree personal terms with the exciting talent. Elsewhere, Tottenham are keen to sign Manchester City striker Craig Bellamy despite manager Harry Redknapp branding the player a "nuisance"; Liverpool are desperate to sign a target man, with Sunderland's Kenwyne Jones, Manchester City's Roque Santa Cruz and Liverpool old boy Emile Heskey all being tracked; and Manchester United will offload 22-year-old Serbian winger Zoran Tosic in January. Tosic signed last January in a £7m deal, but has yet to start a game for the club.

Keane’s unique advice for Sparky

Roy Keane has given sacked Manchester City boss Mark Hughes advice in his own unique and forthright way: "You're better off out of it." He also told his former Manchester United teammate that he was mad to have taken the City job in the first place. "I wouldn't have got involved with City - never. I wouldn't have cared what kind of money they were talking about,” said the Irishman. "I'd rather go hungry. When you have had a long association with United I don't think you should have anything to do with their main rivals,” added Keane, who is now manager of Ipswich. "He and his staff are better off out of it. Sparky will be OK. He'll still have a turkey this Christmas."

Horse doctor for Reds

Desperate times make for desperate measures! Crisis club Liverpool are ready to turn to the miracle ‘placenta doctor’ of Serbia to help turn things around at Anfield. So impressed has manager Rafa Bentiez been with Marijana Kovacevic’s work on injured players that he wants to strike a deal with her to prioritise work on Reds players. According to reports the Spaniard wants the Belgrade housewife to establish a permanent base at Anfield so the players don’t have to travel far to see her. Kovacevic made a name for herself by treating Arsenal striker Robin Van Persie after his bad ankle injury. She has subsequently also speeded up the recovery of Liverpool players Alberto Aquilani, Albert Riera, Glen Johnson, Fabio Aurelio and Yossi Benayoun. Liverpool are currently lying in eighth place in the EPL and need to do everything possible to turn their season around.

Real striker in demand

Big spending EPL clubs Manchester City and Chelsea are both keeping a close eye on Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema. The French international has battled to settle in La Liga following his £35m move from Lyon in June and he recently lost his starting place to Argentina international Gonzalo Higuain. Arsenal are also reported to be lurking in the background and monitoring Benzema’s situation. The 22-year-old famously snubbed Manchester United in favour of Real Madrid. But news that he may be on the market is sure to prompt a rush of potential buyers from all the big clubs in Europe.

Revelation may unsettle Rafa

In a revelation that looks likely to further unsettle Rafa Benitez, Manchester City claim that Liverpool sounded out Roberto Mancini to take over from their Spanish manager in 2007. Benítez came close to leaving Anfield after reaching his second Champions League final in three years after it was revealed the club’s owners had held talks with Klinsmann. City meanwhile have defended Liverpool’s actions. "It is naive to think that clubs are not looking at their options," their CEO Gary Cook said on Wednesday. "Of course they are. Do we think that Liverpool just talked to Klinsmann? I am sure they also spoke to others, and I have no doubt that Mancini was one of them,” he added. "We have been linked with Arsène Wenger, José Mourinho, Guus Hiddink and Klinsmann, but I have never met any of them. Any club looking at their managerial options would draw up a list.”

City and United set for fight and other transfer gossip

Manchester City are keeping a close eye on in-demand Palermo central defender Simon Kjaer. The Danish international has been closely linked with a move to City’s archrivals Manchester United and news that the Blues are ready to prise away one of their primary transfer targets is sure to upset Sir Alex Ferguson and company. Elsewhere Thierry Henry is also on City's radar, with Barcelona ready to offload the 32-year-old France international; Portsmouth may not be able to extend Jamie O'Hara's loan stay from Spurs because of the club's transfer embargo preventing them from bringing in new players; West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola is resigned to losing defender Matthew Upson in January with Spurs a likely destination; and Blackburn boss Sam Allardyce must sell before he can make a swoop for Stoke striker James Beattie.

SAF fumes at Sparky treatment

"Totally unacceptable!" That’s what Sir Alex Ferguson thinks of Manchester City's treatment of Mark Hughes. Hughes was sacked last weekend following City’s 4-3 win over Sunderland and replaced by Roberto Mancini. Ferguson, who managed Hughes as a player, was especially cutting of City chief executive Garry Cook's handling of the affair. "It was totally unacceptable behaviour. For some reason Christmas seems to bring out the worst in directors," fumed the Manchester United boss. "It doesn't matter whether you have lost 20 games or two, there is a way to treat people," added Ferguson. "From Saturday morning the rumour mill was working and Mark must have realised it was his last game. It was a terrible position to be in." City currently lie sixth in the EPL and have been beaten only twice in the league this season.

Stevie G’s a sorry lad

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has apologised to manager Rafa Bentiez for letting him down this season. On Thursday Benitez revealed that his inspirational captain had personally accepted the blame for Liverpool’s woeful form this campaign. The Reds have lost seven of their 18 league matches - compared with just two defeats last season - and are 14 points adrift of leaders Chelsea. "We have a lot of corridors at Anfield and we bump into one another a lot - and every time Steven says he wants to give more,” said Benitez. "He is the captain and he is very important for the team and the club,” he added. "He is someone who is pushing himself because he wants to improve. Steven knows he has to do that, but that for me is very positive.” Gerrard has been below par this season partly due to niggling injuries.

Blues face striker crisis

Chelsea face a potentially difficult Festive Season programme after losing all of their regular strikers to injury and the African Cup of Nations. Manager Carlo Ancelotti must say goodbye to Didier Drogba and Salomon Kalou as they are off the represent Cote d’Ivoire in the Afcon while Nicolas Anelka tore a hamstring in training last week. Daniel Sturridge and 18-year-old Fabio Borini are the only recognised strikers left for Ancelotti to pick, but neither has ever scored a goal for Chelsea or started an EPL game for the club. Drogba's 18 goals have fired Chelsea four points clear at the top of the league. Anelka has scored eight goals. The Blues play Birmingham on Boxing Day and Fulham on Monday.

Senegal striker set for United debut

Mame Biram Diouf is set to make a dream debut for Manchester United in January after being granted a British work permit. The 22-year-old signed from Norwegian team Molde this year before returning to the club on loan. "He's been training with us and is looking very exciting," revealed United manager Sir Alex Ferguson on Wednesday. Diouf has scored 35 goals in 74 games for Molde, who are ex-United striker Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's former club. He will not feature in the 2010 Africa Cup of Nations because Senegal failed to qualify.

Tottenham eye strike duo and other transfer gossip

Tottenham are monitoring Craig Bellamy’s position at Manchester City after it emerged that the temperamental Welsh striker wants out of Eastlands following the sacking of Mark Hughes. He is expected to cost Spurs £10m. Real Madrid striker Ruud van Nistelrooy is also on Harry Redknapp’s radar but he will have to fight hard to fend off Liverpool and Arsenal. Elsewhere, new Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini is tracking £8m-rated Younes Kaboul, a player who recently flopped at Spurs; and Aston Villa and Liverpool are set to go head-to-head for Sunderland striker Kenwyne Jones who is valued at £12 m.

Sacking Rafa won’t help – Torres

Firing Rafa Benitez will not remedy Liverpool’ current ills, according to the club’s star striker Fernando Torres. With the legendary club out of this season’s Champions League and lying a disappointing eighth in the EPL, there have been a chorus of calls for the head of manager Bentiez. "I think sacking the manager is not a solution," said Torres on Tuesday. “The players are the people that have to find a solution to the situation," he added. The Spanish ace hit man has scored 11 goals in 13 league games this season yet the Reds have won just three times in 12 games. "It's a difficult situation but every top team in the world goes sometimes through a bad situation like Liverpool now. Like every top team in the world, Liverpool will get over the situation. I have confidence in myself and my team."

Top four or cheers!

New Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has been told in no uncertain terms that anything less than a top four finish this season and he’ll be looking for a new job. The Italian was appointed as a replacement for Mark Hughes who was sacked last weekend. His 3½-year contract however has a clause written into it allowing both himself and City to part company after six months if results don’t go their way. For this reason, Mancini will not be moving his family to Manchester until next season at the earliest. City’s wealthy Arab owners are expected to make money available to spend heavily in the January transfer window in order to ensure the ambitious club secures a place in next season’s Champions League. Mancini’s first game in charge is at home to Stoke on Boxing Day.

Blues will survive Didi’s absence

Chelsea will not be affected by the absence of star player Didier Drogba in January and February, according to the big Ivorian’s strike partner Nicolas Anelka. Drogba will miss a good portion of the EPL over the next couple of months as he will be playing for Cote d’Ivoire in the African Cup of Nations. And with Chelsea relying heavily on the 32-year-old’s goals this season – he is the EPL’s leading scorer – many fear that the club’s bid to regain the league title may falter in his absence. “We have incredible quality in our squad and we will be ok without Didi,” assured Anelka on Tuesday. The club will also be without their other African stars John Obi Mikel (Nigeria), Michael Essien (Ghana) and Salmon Kalou (Cote d’Ivoire) during the Afcon.

Nasri not guilty

The media has failed in its attempt to have Samir Nasri banned. This comes after referee Steve Bennett declared that he would have only yellow carded the Arsenal winger if he had seen what the newspapers insist was a stamp on Hull defender Richard Garcia last weekend. Earlier, The Sun newspaper claimed Bennett's decision was 'an unexpected boost to Arsenal' as 'the midfielder looked certain to be clobbered after stamping on Garcia', while the Daily Mail asserted that 'Nasri has escaped punishment despite a stamp seen clearly by millions of TV viewers'. According to the Mail, 'On the replays, Nasri can clearly be seen lifting his boot and sinking his studs on to Garcia's ankle and foot during a stoppage. Garcia collapsed in pain and a skirmish broke out.' Hull’s Nick Barmby appears to be even luckier as he slapped Nasri on the head which was not sighted or punished.

Heskey the Messiah and other transfer gossip

So desperate is the situation at Liverpool that under-fire coach Rafa Benitez is considering resigning Emile Heskey. Heskey signed for the Reds back in 2001 for a then record £11m but largely failed to impress at Anfield before being shipped off five years later. He is currently warming the bench at Aston Villa but curiously is a first choice for England. Elsewhere, new Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini is keen to strengthen the club’s defence and is tracking West Ham centre-half Matthew Upson (£10m), Inter Milan full-back Maicon (£15m), Juventus full-back Giorgio Chiellini (£10m) and Bolton's Gary Cahill (£10m); Valencia striker David Villa believes the time is right for a switch to England after failing to secure moves to Barcelona and Real Madrid; Real Madrid are keen on in-form Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic; and Manchester United have bid £9m plus Nani for Benfica’s highly-rated Argentine Angel di Maria.

Partying Keane to remain skipper

Tottenham won’t be taking any action against Robbie Keane despite his role in organising a secret Christmas party last week. The Irishman is also expected to retain the club captain’s armband. Spurs manager Harry Redknapp had earlier vowed to “severely punish” the players that flew to Dublin for the unauthorised party four days before their 1-0 home defeat by Wolves on 12 December. Instead the players involved in the trip have agreed to make an unspecified donation to an unnamed charity. The ambitious club, whose single priority is to break into the top four this season, are currently two points behind fourth-placed Aston Villa.

Chelsea’s spending spree

Chelsea’s billionaire owner Roman Abramovich is willing to blow a massive £55m in the January transfer window to help his team regain the EPL title. With the club failing to take advantage of chief title rival Manchester United’s slip ups in recent weeks, the mega-rich Blues owner wants to bolster his squad in the hope of tasting league glory for the first time since 2005-06. Top of his wanted list are Atletico Madrid's £40m-rated striker Sergio Aguero and in-demand defensive midfielder Jerko Leko of Monaco. Ajax's Uruguay striker Luis Suarez, Roma's Italian international Daniele De Rossi and Everton teenager Jack Rodwell are also being watched. But, according to Chelsea insiders, Abramovich won’t be held to ransom by greedy clubs. The club will also lose African stars Drogba, Essien, Kalou and Mikel to the African Nations Cup in February. Chelsea have won just one of their last six games.

Messi wins World Player of the Year

Lionel Messi has capped a stellar year by being named the 2009 Fifa World Player of the Year. The 22-year-old Argentine international led Barcelona to La Liga, Champions League, Copa del Rey and Club World Cup titles this year. He beat off competition from last year's winner Cristiano Ronaldo, Barcelona team-mates Xavi and Andres Iniesta and 2007 winner Kaka. "A magnificent year for me and Barca has ended in the best way," said Messi after receiving the coveted award. In a vote by captains and head coaches of the world’s national teams, Messi won 1,073 votes, Ronaldo 352, Xavi 196, Kaka 190 and Iniesta 134. But despite his crowning glory, the little winger played down the attention. "No, please, I am not king of the world now, nor the number one. I am the same person as always and I have the good fortune to play in a great team."

Five EPL stars in Fifa World XI

Five EPL players have been named in the FIFPro World XI for 2009. The team represents the best players on the planet for the year as voted by their fellow professionals from around the world. John Terry (Chelsea), Steven Gerrard, Fernando Torres (both Liverpool), Patrice Evra and Nemanja Vidic (both Manchester United) all made the starting XI. They were joined by Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas, Barcelona quartet Dani Alves, Xavi, Andres Iniesta and Lionel Messi, and former Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo, who joined Real Madrid in June 2009. Ronaldo also won the inaugural Fifa Puskas Award for the best goal of the year for his stunning 40-yard strike for Manchester United against FC Porto in the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

Blues want Maradona’s son-in-law and other transfer gossip

Chelsea are so determined to beat off Manchester City in the chase for Atletico Madrid striker Sergio Aguero that they will push through a mega-money transfer of £50m for the young Argentine international in the next few days. Aguero is married to legend Diego Maradona’s daughter and is considered one of the most exciting talents in world football. Elsewhere, Manchester City’s Craig Bellamy and Shay Given are considering quitting the club in protest over the sacking of manager Mark Hughes; new Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini has drawn up an enormous wish list which includes Palermo centre-back Simon Kjaer, Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini, Rubin Kazan left-back Cristian Ansaldi, Osasuna right-back Cesar Azpilicueta, Sporting Lisbon centre-back Daniel Carrico, Sampdoria forward Antonio Cassano, AC Milan midfielder Gennaro Gattuso and CSKA Moscow midfielder Milos Krasic; and Tottenham will sell Robbie Keane to Celtic but want goalkeeper Artur Boruc as part of the deal.

No warning – Sparky

Mark Hughes had no forewarning of his dismissal by Manchester City. The Welshman was sacked and replaced by Italian Roberto Mancini after City’s win over Sunderland at the weekend. “I was given no forewarning as to the club's decision," revealed Hughes on Monday. "The speed with which my successor's appointment was announced suggests the club made its decision some time ago." Many newspapers had claimed before Saturday’s match at Eastlands that the 46-year-old Hughes was facing the axe. "I am extremely disappointed not to have been given the opportunity to see through my plans at the club," added Hughes. "At the beginning of the season, I sat down with the owners and it was agreed that a realistic target for the season would be sixth place in the Premier League, or in the region of 70 points.” Hughes spent close to £200m on players during his 18-month reign.

City’s crazy decision- Redknapp

Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp thinks Manchester City were crazy to sack Mark Hughes. City’s wealthy Arab backers dismissed the Welshman on Saturday for “poor results”. "I couldn't believe it," said Redknapp on Monday. City have only lost two EPL games all season – away to Manchester United and to Tottenham. “Two defeats is certainly not a disaster. They've got a game in hand and they were sitting just off the Champions League places,” added Redknapp. “I'm really surprised that they've taken that decision at this stage of the season. Mark's a good manager and, given time, there's no doubt they would have been very successful." City currently lie in sixth place, six points off a Champions League place.

Barca in Robinho snub

Barcelona are no longer interested in signing Robinho. The Brazilian star has long been linked with a move to the Nou Camp but now the Spanish giants have lost interest in him after having a £32m bid rejected by City. "The conditions we set out for Robinho were not acceptable to City,” said Barca in a statement on Monday. “Since the squad are developing so well, unless there are any unforeseen last-minute changes we will not be signing anyone in January." The 26-year-old Robinho is also said to want to remain at City as he is excited to be playing under the club’s new manager Roberto Mancini, a man he has long admired. Barca lifted their sixth trophy of 2009 when they won the FIFA Clubs World Cup at the weekend, defeating Estudientes of Argentina in the final.

Ancelotti stands by his man

Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti has vowed to stand by the club’s under-fire captain John Terry. This comes after Terry was accused of helping a ticket tout earn money from unofficial tours of Chelsea's training ground. "I think the club, me, the players, have a lot of confidence in John Terry,” said the Italian on Monday. "I am not upset and neither is JT. He was very calm before the game (against West Ham). No problem. He told me he has done nothing wrong and I accept that." Ancelotti also sprang to the defence of his team after the 1-1 draw with West Ham on Sunday meant they have now only won once in four games. "Today is not a big problem. We have one point more at the top and we can have a good Christmas."

City stars want out and other transfer gossip

Striker Craig Bellamy is considering walking out on Manchester City after the club’s controversial sacking of manager Mark Hughes at the weekend. Bellamy is said to be disillusioned by the thought of playing under a coach other than his Welsh compatriot. Shay Given, Gareth Barry and Carlos Tevez are also said to be angered Hughes’ departure and are reconsidering their futures. Elsewhere, Everton and Arsenal will tussle over the signature of £7m-rated Bordeaux striker Marouane Chamakh; Chelsea, Real Madrid and AC Milan are all battling it out for Anderlecht's 16-year-old Belgian striker Romelo Lukaku; Liverpool defender Fabio Aurelio wants out in January; Real Madrid midfielder Rafael van der Vaart will tunr his nose up at a £6m January move to Arsenal; and Manchester United are considering making a £5m swoop for Marseille winger Hatem Ben Arfa.

Players to revolt over Hughes sacking

Manchester City players have threatened "further action" over the sacking of manager Mark Hughes. Hughes was shown the door by the club’s wealthy Arab owners on Saturday despite a 4-3 win over Sunderland. Italian Roberto Mancini was announced as his replacement. "A return of two wins in 11 Premier League games is clearly not in line with the targets that were agreed and set," read a City statement. But according to reports a group of players led by Craig Bellamy and Shay Given have now urged the club to reconsider the decision to fire Hughes and have threatened to revolt if their wishes are not met. Hughes was in charge of City for 18 months but despite spending around £250m on players the club has struggled to press for a place in top four of the EPL. Mancini led Inter Milan to three Serie A titles.

Injury crisis may cost United title

Sir Alex Ferguson fears Manchester United’s defensive crisis may cost the club their EPL title. The reigning champions suffered a second loss in a week when they were humbled 3-0 by Fulham on Saturday. Due to a string of injuries to his first-choice defenders, Fergie fielded a back four of Ritchie de Laet, Michael Carrick, Darren Fletcher and Patrice Evra against Fulham. "We again had to use midfield players at the back and a lad who is just 20 years of age," moaned Ferguson after the match. "Five league defeats? The way the league is at the moment, I hope it's not too damaging. I hope it does not cost us the league. But to get back up there we need to get our defenders returning and we are working overtime on that. But there is no light at the end of the tunnel." The result leaves the Red Devils in second place six points behind Chelsea.

Head doctor for Hammers

Beleaguered West Ham manager Gianfranco Zola may turn to a psychologist in an attempt to turn the Hammers season around. Relegation is looking very likely for the Londoners who languish second from bottom of the EPL. "Would I consider using a sports psychologist? I would consider everything," admitted Zola on Saturday. "The challenge is to increase the confidence level so it might be one of the solutions. I never used one as a player; a kick in the butt did for me. But I have got an open mind; I will do whatever it takes." The little Italian, who enjoyed a great first season in charge of the club, does however remain philosophical over a potential revolt by the club’s fans. "I don't worry if the fans might turn on me, its part of the job. I know if I don't get results the fans will be unhappy."

Mancini’s the Manc man

Manchester City’s billionaire Arab owners have hailed the arrival of Roberto Mancini, claiming the Italian is just the man to help establish the club as the best in the world. Mancini was announced as Mark Hughes replacement on Saturday. "Roberto is a hugely experienced manager with a proven track record of winning trophies and championships," said club chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak. "What is absolutely clear is that Roberto believes in Manchester City's potential to achieve at the highest level and importantly in his own ability to make this happen." Mancini led Inter Milan to three Serie A titles in four years before making way for Jose Mourinho in 2008. He will be assisted by former Manchester United assistant coach Brian Kidd. City currently lie four points off a Champions League place and a massive 11 points behind leaders Chelsea.

Mancini to splash millions and other transfer gossip

New Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini is set to whip out the cheque book in the January transfer window in order to ensure Champions League football for the ambitious club next season. According to reports, the Italian has his eyes on Liverpool duo Fernando Torres and Javier Mascherano, Bayern Munch winger Franck Ribery, Atletico Madrid striker Sergio Aguero, Benfica winger Angel Di Maria, Barcelona duo Yaya Toure and Thierry Henry, and West Ham defender Matthew Upson. Elsewhere, Manchester United are planning a £35m bid for Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema; Chelsea are to offer Liverpool £60m for striker Fernando Torres; Real Madrid are chasing young Manchester United defender Jonny Evans; and Sunderland are interested in Tottenham striker Robbie Keane and are preparing a £12m bid for the Irishman.

Evra hopes for Becks shocker

Patrice Evra is excited at facing former darling of Old Trafford David Beckham in the Champions League. This comes after Manchester United were drawn against Beckham’s AC Milan in the last 16 of Europe’s premier tournament. "I am very happy for David Beckham," said French defender Evra. "He did a lot of great things for Manchester United and I want to say to him 'Welcome Home'. But I hope he plays badly and I intend to make sure he doesn't do very well." United are scheduled to face the Italian giants on 9/10 or 16/17 March. The Red devils have beaten five of their last seven Italian opponents in the Champions League knockout stages but, significantly, the two occasions they lost were both to AC Milan: 2-0 on aggregate in the round of 16 in 2005 and 5-3 on aggregate in the semi-finals in 2007.

Carra wants to be like Giggs

Jamie Carragher is determined to emulate Ryan Giggs. The Liverpool defender made his 600th appearance for the Reds against Portsmouth on Saturday. The 32-year-old now has his sights on starring for the club into his late 30’s just as Manchester United legend Giggs is doing at Old Trafford. “I’d like to do that,” said Carragher on Friday. “Alex Ferguson is very clever in deciding when Ryan Giggs plays. I’m sure I could do that, although it’s a little bit different at centre-back where managers don’t like to rotate it as much.” Carragher is ninth on the Liverpool all-time appearance list since making his debut in 1996. “Either way, I’d like to think I’d be capable of playing 25 or 30 games for Liverpool a season at 34 or 35.” Giggs has played over 900 games for United.

Becks delight at United return

David Beckham is delighted to be finally returning to Old Trafford, seven years after leaving Manchester United. Beckham’s new club AC Milan were drawn against United in the last 16 of the Champions League on Friday. "Me against Manchester is beautiful,” said Beckham after Friday’s draw. "Since I left in 2003, I have not returned to play at the Theatre of Dreams. Seven years have gone and I am delighted it will finally happen.” The 34-year-old Beckham left United for Real Madrid before moving to the USA to play for LA Galaxy. He joined Milan on loan last season and has since made the move permanent as he attempts to force his way into England’s 2010 World Cup Squad. Beckham played 265 times for United in his ten years at the club, winning six EPL titles and the 1999 Champions League with them.

Sign RVN - Liverpool legend

Former Liverpool striker Ian Rush has urged current manager Rafa Benitez to sign Ruud Van Nistelrooy from Real Madrid during the January transfer window. The 33-yea-old former Manchester United striker is out of favour at Real Madrid and wants a move. Kop legend Rush believes the Dutchman will be a perfect short-term signing to share the goalscoring burden at Anfield with Fernando Torres. “Sometimes Torres needs a break, and if Rafa has only one wish in the transfer window, I hope it’s a top-class striker,” said Rush on Friday. “I would love to see him bring in someone like Van Nistelrooy, a proven goalscorer with experience at the highest level. World-class predators like him don’t become available every day of the week, and it doesn’t bother me where he’s played before.”

City to spend again and other transfer gossip

Manchester City are set to storm the transfer market again in January. Not content with spending a whopping £250m in the past two years, the club’s wealthy Arab owners have authorised moves for West Ham midfielder Scott Parker and Barcelona star defenders Carlos Puyol and Eric Abidal. Also on their radar are Fulham defender Brede Hangeland and out-of-favour Tottenham winger David Bentley. Elsewhere, Chelsea are considering a £20m swoop for Wolfsburg striker Edin Dzeko; Wigan have opened talks with Argentine side Velez Sarsfield about signing Chilean defender Waldo Ponce; and Nottingham Forest are set to make a £3m bid for Tottenham's Welsh defender Gareth Bale and will spend the same amount to turn Nicky Shorey's loan move from Aston Villa into a permanent move.

United to face former darling

David Beckham and Manchester United will face-off after the Red Devils were drawn against AC Milan in the last 16 of the Champions League on Friday. It is the first time that Beckham, who left United in 2003, has faced his former pay masters on the football field. The two-leg match is set for the 9/10 or 16/17 March. "Beckham will get a fantastic reception, as players coming back usually do at Manchester United," said the club's director of communications Phil Townsend. "He was a terrific servant for the club and we all hope he will be playing." Chelsea, meanwhile, were drawn against ex-manager Jose Mourinho's Inter Milan, while England’s other surviving team Arsenal drew Porto. Reigning champions Barcelona face German side Stuttgart, while their La Liga rivals Real Madrid face a tricky tie against French side Lyon.

No Inter mind games - Ancelotti

Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti is in no mood to play mind games with Jose Mourinho, after the former Blues manager was drawn against them in the Champions League on Friday. Mourinho, now in charge of Serie A champions Inter Milan, will face the club he led to two EPL titles, an FA Cup and two League Cups in the last 16 of Europe’s premier club competition. He left Stamford Bridge unexpectedly in 2007. Ancelotti, who was in charge of Inter's city rivals AC Milan last season, denied there was any bad blood between him and Mourinho. "If we don't have a good relationship, this game can be a good opportunity to return to a good relationship," said Ancelotti on Friday. "I'm not ready to play mind games. I never will be ready to play these games. I prefer to play football matches. I have experience of what he'll do."

Scrouge Harry threatens party punishment

Harry Redknapp has blown his top after Tottenham players held a secret Christmas party. The Spurs boss, who banned celebrations until the end of the season, has now threatened to "severely" punish those players who flew to Dublin for the bash four days before the shock 1-0 home loss to Wolves last weekend. "It's being dealt with internally," Redknapp told BBC Radio. "We will get Saturday's game against Blackburn out of the way and then, believe you me, it will be sorted out." Earlier, Redknapp ordered his players not to organise a party, saying they should remain focused on their bid to finish in the top four of the EPL and qualify for the Champions League. Spurs bounced back from the Wolves defeat with an impressive 3-0 win over Manchester City in midweek and currently lie fifth, ten points behind leaders Chelsea, and two points behind fourth placed Aston Villa.

City to wield the axe

Manchester City are set to axe manager Mark Hughes on Saturday even if the EPL big spenders beat Sunderland. According to a report in The Sun newspaper, the club’s wealthy Arab owners have lost complete faith in Hughes following Wednesday’s 3-0 loss to Tottenham. Apparently Chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak and owner Sheikh Mansour have lined up Guus Hiddink or Jurgen Klinsmann as possible replacements. Hughes was appointed to the City hot seat in June 2008 and has spent £250m on the team. The Eastlands based team have lost just twice this season, but a massive eight draws has left them in eighth place on the EPL standings, six points off a coveted Champions League place.

Blues turn attentions elsewhere and other transfer gossip

Chelsea have given up on signing Franck Ribery and instead will focus their attention on signing his £25m-rated Bayern Munich team-mate Bastian Schweinsteiger in January. Schweinsteiger is a regaular German international and can play as a defender or winger. Elsewhere, Blackburn are chasing Dutch side De Graafschap’s 16-year-old Bosnian midfielder Marko Maletic but face competition from Celtic; Burnley are keen on a loan move for Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere and have promised to give the exciting teenager regular game time; and Crystal Palace striker Victor Moses has attracted attention from Barcelona and German side Hoffenheim but wants to stay in England, with Tottenham keen on the £5m-rated teenager.

Wenger 'moaning like a drain'

Arsene Wenger is wrong to "moan like a drain" about weakened sides and fixture congestion, according to Stoke manager Tony Pulis. The Arsenal manager earlier expressed his anger that Wolves fielded a weakened side against Manchester United earlier this week. His fury then grew on Wednesday after the Gunners were held 1-1 by Burnley. And coupled with concern over fixture congestion, the Frenchjman is not a happy man. "Wenger is moaning like a drain because it doesn't suit Arsenal. He ain't moaning because it doesn't suit Stoke," said Pulis. "I don't think it was the walk in the park (for United). The players Wolves played, most of them are seasoned professionals - he hasn't played the youth team. No disrespect to Wenger but I don't think there is anything wrong with asking professional athletes to perform twice in three or four days."

Ace striker born to be a Blue

Chelsea target Sergio Aguero reckons he was born to be a Blue. The 21-yea-old, who is Diego Maradona’s son-in-law, is expected to sign for Chelsea from Atletico Madrid for £32m in January. "Chelsea are interested in me because they think I can play an important role for the team and I think I fit with their style of play," said the Argentine international striker. "Of course I watch the EPL on TV and I think it is the best league in the world." Aguero is also excited at the prospect of playing alongside Didier Drogba. "There are a lot of very good players but, right now, the top striker in the EPL is without doubt, Drogba. After Drogba comes Fernando Torres. The defenders I like are John Terry and Rio Ferdinand because they are both very strong and they are the finished article."

City stars in furious row

Manchester City team-mates had a major bust-up with each other following Wednesday’s 3-0 loss to Tottenham. According to midfielder Gareth Barry, the players ended up "at each other’s throats" following the defeat at White Hart Lane. "There were a lot of hurt players in the dressing room and the lads were really at each other’s throats. A few words were said in the dressing room and we want to put things right," admitted Barry afterwards. "One of the reasons we were so disappointed with the defeat against Spurs was because they are one of the teams who are challenging us to be in the top four." During the game City’s £32m Brazilian striker Robinho stormed down the tunnel after being substituted while £23m Emmanuel Adebayor argued furiously with Martin Petrov and Roque Santa Cruz at the end of the game. City now lie in eighth place.

Rio in WC vow

Rio Ferdinand is adamant that he will be fit to play in the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. The Manchester United defender has suffered a series of niggling back and calf problems this season and has not played since late October when he was well below par. "I'm confident I'll be fit. There's no question I'll be ready for next summer,” vowed Ferdinand on Thursday. "It's the worst thing for a player to be injured and to be just watching your team, so I've been working hard in the gym to get fit. The treatment on my injury is going well. I can see the light at the end of the tunnel. " The former West Ham and Leeds star has played only 12 of the 21 internationals since Fabio Capello took over as England boss two years ago.

Spurs spending spree and other transfer gossip

Tottenham are set for a busy time in the transfer market this January. According to reports, manager Harry Redknapp will engage in his customary ‘wheeling-and-dealing’ in order to strengthen Spurs push for a top four place. Linked to the White Hart Land club are West Ham centre-back Matthew Upson (for £8m), Wigan left-back Maynor Figueroa (£6m) and highly-rated Chilean striker Humberto Suazo, who plays for Mexican side Monterrey. Gareth Bale, Robbie Keane and Roman Pavlyuchenko look set to be sold to fund the spending spree. Elsewhere, Bolton are set to pay £1.4m to make Ivan Klasnic's loan move from Nantes a permanent deal; former Chelsea striker Eidur Gudjohnsen is set for a return to the EPL after falling out with his manager at Monaco; and Everton are weighing up a cut-price deal for Atletico Madrid midfielder Maxi Rodriguez.

Big Four gone

The concept of the ‘Big Four’ has come to an end, according to Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger. Manchester United, Chelsea, Liverpool and Arsenal have for a long time been the dominant forces in the EPL and have seldom finished out of the first four spots on the standings. But with Tottenham, Aston Villa and Manchester City building impressive squads and now biting on the heels of the Red Devils, Blues, Reds and Gunners, Wenger believes things have shifted. "Nobody looks to be running away with it early in the season," said Wenger on Tuesday. "Instead of having four teams, I believe you have six or seven teams who can all cause a surprise at any weekend. Things change very quickly. What looks for definite in this league is just short-term. No situation is definitely established. That is why, certainly since I have been here, this is the most open championship."

Afcon disaster for Spurs

Harry Redkanpp believes the African Cup of Nations could spell disaster for Tottenham’s push to finish in the Top Four. Spurs face losing defenders Sebastien Bassong and Benoit Assou-Ekotto who have been called up by Cameroon. And with Ledley King and Jonathan Woodgate both injured, Redkanpp faces a defensive crisis in the New Year. "It’s a disaster really for us. Ledley has had a lot of fluid drained off his knee so he’s out. Woody is a slow, slow job. I have no idea when they are going to be fit," moaned Redkanpp on Tuesday. "It is going to be a problem when Bassong goes. We’ll be OK at left-back as we have Gareth Bale, but we have a problem at centre-half if the other two boys don’t get fit." The situation could force Spurs to move for West Ham centre-back Matthew Upson.

SAF to soldier on – Giggsy

Sir Alex Ferguson still has at least another five years as manager of Manchester United, according to club legend Ryan Giggs. The 36-year-old Giggs, who is expected to sign a one-year contract extension at the end of the season, expects to retire before his 67-year-old manager. "The manager is as good as ever and will go on for a long time," said Giggs on Tuesday. "I can still see him as manager of United in five years' time, easily, because as long as he is healthy he will have the desire to carry on. He has a great team around him, he has his passions away from the game and can get away with his horse racing. When he comes back to football he is refreshed, and I know he still has that desire." Ferguson took charge of his 900th league game earlier this week when United beat Wolves.

Fab keeping tabs on Owen

England manager Fabio Capello is keeping a close eye on Manchester United striker Michael Owen as he continues to plan his 23-man World Cup squad. Owen, who has not played for England for close on two years, is desperate to feature in a fourth World Cup next year. But due to injury and little game time, Capello has consistently overlooked him despite his impressive scoring record at international level. “He is one of the players that I follow,” revealed Capello on Tuesday. "I saw the last game he played, on television, and he scored three goals in the Champions League but the next game he did not play. For this reason, I ask myself why? Why (Wayne) Rooney plays always and Owen not? He is one of the important England players."

Real track Villa star and other transfer gossip

The impressive recent form of Aston Villa centre-back Carlos Cuellar has alerted Real Madrid. The 28-year-old enjoyed an unspectacular start to his Villa career following a £8m move from Rangers in August 2008. But he has really come into his own this season and according to reports in Spain he is being closely watched by Real Madrid scouts as well as selectors for the Spanish national team. Elsewhere, Tottenham are determined to offload £12m Russian flop Roman Pavlyuchenko, but only if the price is right; Sunderland are planning a January bid for Wigan's £4m-rated defender Maynor Figueroa; Wigan are considering a move for Chile defender Waldo Ponce, who plays for Velez Sarsfield in Argentina; and Arsenal are concerned that defender Mikael Silvestre could leave the club on a free transfer at the end of the season.

Ancelotti swears to motivate

Carlo Ancelotti is prepared to use foul language to get the best out of his faltering stars. The Blues are currently on a four-game winless streak which has seen their lead at the top of the EPL cut to shreads. "I speak to them in English. F*** off is an excellent language," revealed Ancelotti on Tuesday! "I've learned the words, the sentences. But I never lose control. To become angry does not mean losing control," added the fiery Italian. Chelsea face struggling Portsmouth on Wednesday. "Sometimes with the team and players you have to show you are disappointed in them. It's not right to be angry with the players every time as, if you are, they won't listen. But sometimes it is necessary for a manager to give an electric shock to his players."

Wolves Pups XI upset fans

Wolves fans have blasted manager Mick McCarthy for gifting Manchester United a 3-0 win on Tuesday by fielding a team made up almost entirely of reserve players. In fact the XI put out by the Irishman at Old Trafford did not feature one single outfield player that featured in Saturday’s impressive win over Tottenham. Furious Wolves fans, who had paid top prices for their seats, chanted: "Forty quid to watch the reserves" and "we want our money back". But McCarthy was unrepentant. "That was my best team available because they were all fresh legs. They were my best 11 players," he said. "I would hope the fans would understand what I have done. At the end of the day my decisions will be judged on whether we stay in the Premier League."

Villans not getting carried away

Martin O'Neill has urged his players to keep their feet firmly on the ground despite moving up to third place in the EPL following a 2-0 win over Sunderland on Tuesday. Coming on the back of their historic win over champions Manchester United last Saturday, the Villans could be forgiven for dreaming of Champion League football next season. "No-one's getting carried away in the dressing room," O'Neill told BBC Sport. "We need to rest up and prepare for the next game. That is now massive for us." Villa, who are just five points behind EPL leaders Chelsea, play Stoke this weekend. So far this season they have beaten each of the teams that finished in the top three last season. "On back of a very good match at Manchester United, this was a vital match for us and we've shown the ability to get a deserved win," added O'Neill.

Berba feeling the pressure

Record Manchester United signing Dimitar Berbatov is finding it hard to do his massive price tag justice. The Bulgarian joined United from Tottenham for £32m in 2008 but has failed to impress many of the Old Trafford faithful. "Every person is different in coping with the pressure of the price tag," said Berbatov on Monday. "For me, sometimes it is difficult because people expect so much of me. The fans have probably seen glimpses of my best goals, passes and games. I know you need to show that all the time and that's my main goal - in every game to show my best game." Berbatov has scored 18 goals for the Red Devils in 49 appearances.

Little Vidic set for United and other transfer gossip

Manchester United have been linked to young defender Uros Cosic who like club legend Nemanja Vidic hails from Serbia. In fact sources at Cosic’s current club CSKA Moscow claim he is an even bigger talent than Vidic. CSKA president Yevgeni Giner says the 17-year-old may move to Old Trafford next year, despite the club’s desire to keep him. Elsewhere, Chelsea are planning a January move for West Ham goalkeeper Robert Green as a replacement for the floundering Petr Cech; Tottenham winger David Bentley is demanding a move away from Whita Hart Lane after being left out of the squad that played Wolves at the weekend; and Liverpool are ready to raid West Ham by making a £6m bid for midfielder Scott Parker.

Assou-Ekotto in the clear

Benoit Assou-Ekotto will not face the wrap for an altercation with a fan following Tottenham’s shock 1-0 home loss to Wolves on Saturday. The 25-year-old Cameroon international had earlier been accused of assault but the fan in question has withdrawn the allegation and police will now end their enquiries. While the incident was not captured on television, an eye witness said Assou-Ekotto raised his hands to the supporter's neck after receiving verbal abuse. The defender joined Spurs in 2006 from French club Lens and has been ever-present in the team under Harry Redknapp.

Blues in sensational transfer move

Chelsea are ready to wave £30m under Liverpool’s noses to pry Steven Gerrard away from Anfield in the summer. According to The Daily Mirror, Chelsea coach Carlo Ancelotti has told close friends that Gerrard is his number one transfer target. And with Liverpool running up massive debts and struggling to secure a Champions League spot for next season, the Blues now believe the time is right to pry the talismanic midfielder away. The 29-year-old Gerrard famously turned down a move to Stamford Bridge in 2004, but with his boyhood club now in the doldrums he may be tempted to jump ship in pursuit of a much coveted EPL winners medal.

Hargreaves battling psycho hurdle

As if overcoming major surgery to both knees was not enough, Manchester United utility player Owen Hargreaves is now battling to overcome the psychological hurdle of making a comeback. According to a report in The Sun newspaper, the England international spends most of his time training alone with United's physiotherapist. "Owen is doing most things but it is the confidence part to mark the big step forward in the competitive part of the training that needs to come," claims Red Devils manager Sir Alex Ferguson. Hargreaves has been capped 42 times by England but time is now fast running out for him to make a comeback and force his way back into the England squad for the 2010 World Cup. Hargreaves, who joined United from Bayern Munich for £17m in August 2007, has started only 25 games since then and has not played in 14 months.

Carra praying for a miracle

Jamie Carragher is hoping divine intervention will rescue Liverpool’s season. The Reds slumped to their sixth defeat in the EPL after going down 2-1 against Arsenal at Anfield on Sunday which leaves them in seventh place, five points off a coveted top four spot. “Between now and May it is going to be a grind at times but we have got to stick together, get through it and, as I'm doing, pray to God that at the end of the season there will be something worthwhile for what we've gone through," he told the club's official website. "We can't look for excuses," added Carragher. "That's the way it is at top-level football - we know that any little thing can get pounced upon and that's happening at the moment.” Liverpool play Wigan on Wednesday.

Hammers in for Brazilian great and other transfer gossip

West Ham are chasing the signature of Adriano in a bid to save them from the drop. The once great Brazilian striker returned to his homeland two years ago to resurrect his career after suffering from psychological problems while at Inter Milan, the club where he really made his name. Hammers manager Gianfranco Zola now believes the burly player is the right man to fire his team to safety and is willing to fork out around £5m for him. Elsewhere, Blackburn winger Morten Gamst Pedersen wants to move to Glasgow Celtic as he is desperate to play in the Champions League; Everton are set to bid £7m for Schalke ace Lewis Holtby; Fulham are preparing a £3m January bid for Wigan midfielder Paul Scharner; and Aston Villa are leading the chase to sign £4m-rated Scottish midfielder Graham Dorrans from Championship outfit West Brom.

Fergie plans to roll on

Sir Alex Ferguson can’t imagine a life outside football and despite turning 68 later this month insists he has no plans to retire. The Manchester United boss is the EPL’s longest serving manager and has been in charge at Old Trafford since 1986. "My health will dictate how long I stay in the job," he told the Daily Mai last week. "That's the only important thing. It is what you have to value most and what you have to protect most because without it you cannot do justice to yourself, your family or whatever you do in life," he added. The fiery Scot had planned to retire at the end of the 2001/2002 season but decided against it and has since gone on to lead the Red Devils to a vast array of trophies including a second Uefa Champions League crown in 2008.

Harry blasts faltering Spurs

Harry Redkanpp lambasted the Tottenham players for their inept display against Wolves on Saturday. Lying fourth ahead of the clash, Spurs looked likely to solidify their place in the upper echelons of the EPL. But following their shock 1-0 home defeat and wins for Aston Villa and Arsenal, the ambitious North Londoners slipped down to sixth place. "We had loads of the ball, probably about 80 per cent, but it's hard when teams just sit in there. It's hard to break them down," fumed Redknapp afterwards. "The better reputation you get as a team, the more teams go away from home and make it difficult for you. If you're going to be a top team you have to find a way of breaking them down. That's what the top teams do but we just couldn't unlock the door." Spurs face Manchester City on Wednesday in a crunch tie.

Gunners want RVP compensation

Arsenal want mega compensation from the Dutch FA for the ankle injury suffered by Robin van Persie. The Gunners goal ace damaged ankle ligaments during Holland's friendly against Italy in November and is not expected to return to action until April. "We are working on this with our lawyers at the moment and we are definitely going for it," revealed Wenger. "I expect financial compensation for the damage it can make to the championship and the salary involved. It is especially frustrating to lose your players for the rest of the season in a friendly game." Wenger claimed an amount had not yet been decided upon although some are suggesting a figure of around £10m. "We have to sit down with our lawyers and advisers to see what we can do. I don't know the rules well enough. But definitely we will go for compensation," he added.

Aquilani impresses team-mate

Alberto Aquilani has received the stamp of approval from fellow Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano. The 25-year-old Italian, who cost the Reds a whopping £20m, has struggled with an ankle injury since his summer transfer from Roma. He finally made his full debut for the club last week, impressing Mascherano so much in the club’s Champions League clash with Fiorentina that he has backed the player to fill Xabi Alonso’s big boots. "We have to forget Alonso," commented Mascherano. "Aquilani will give us everything he can and if he is fit he will be really good for us. Now little by little he'll increase his confidence and learn about English football, because it's totally different, but I think he will be really good for Liverpool."

Spurs ready to offload and other transfer gossip

Tottenham are ready to offload four players in order to fund other purchases during the January transfer window. According to reports, Robbie Keane, Roman Pavlyuchenko, David Bentley and Alan Hutton will all be sold as manager Harry Redknapp tries to lure players he believes will fire the club into the Champions League. One such player is Real Madrid striker Ruud van Nistelrooy and Spurs are expected to make a concerted bid to bring the former Manchester United goal ace to White Hart Lane. Elsewhere, struggling Liverpool are set to abandon their long-standing interest in David Silva in favour of signing his Valencia team-mate Juan Manuel Mata; Manchester City are plotting a £6m move for Argentine left-back Cristian Ansaldi, who plays for Russian side Rubin Kazan; and Real Madrid midfielder Rafael van der Vaart has emerged as a January target for Arsenal.

Fergie in usual ref rant

Sir Alex Ferguson has had his usual rant about referees following Manchester United’s loss to Aston Villa on Saturday. The Red Devils went down 1-0 to Villa at Old Trafford with Fergie blasting the fourth official for only allowing three minutes of added on time at the end of the 90 minutes. "It has to be taken out of the referee's hands,” he fumed afterwards. "There were two stoppages of two minutes three seconds, but we only played three minutes added time." Villa's victory, sealed by Gabriel Agbonlahor's first-half strike, was their first in the league over United since 1983. "Second half we pummelled them, had a lot of good chances and didn't get any,” continued Ferguson. “We are camped in their box and if we take one of those chances then the game would have probably changed. It's just one of those days it wasn't going in."

Not good enough – Stevie G

Steven Gerrard has admitted that Liverpool have just not been good enough this season. Speaking ahead of their clash with Arsenal on Sunday, the Reds captain was brutal in his assessment of the club’s form but vowed to continue the fight for a Champions League spot next season and prevent a “meltdown” at Anfield. “The League never lies,” said Gerrard on Saturday. “You’re in that position for a reason. That tells me that we’ve not been good enough and consistent enough. It’s down to me and the rest of the boys here to take responsibility and put that right.” Liverpool have won just three of their last 14 matches and lie 12 points behind EPL leaders Liverpool. “We need to get out there, roll up our sleeves and get this football club back where it belongs – that’s as far up the League as possible,” he added.

No alarm bells yet – Ancelotti

Carlo Ancelotti refused to press the alarm bells after Chelsea’s winless run stretched to four matches following Saturday's 3-3 draw with Everton. "Who can say we are in crisis?" asked Ancelotti afterwards. "I don't think so. I want to be objective and when I look at the game and the way we played I saw that my team played very well.” The Italian will however want to sort out the club’s messy defending with all three Everton goals arriving courtesy of their inability to defend set-pieces. "We didn't win because of mistakes at set-pieces. But we played very well for 90 minutes with intensity and good concentration. We created a lot of chances to score and were unlucky today.” The draw did however extend their lead over second placed Manchester United to three points. The Red Devils suffered a shock 1-0 loss to Aston Villa on Saturday.

Arsene’s feeling the love

Arsene Wenger is keeping a close eye on Sol Campbell and has not ruled out re-signing the defender in January. The 35-year-old Campbell, part of Arsenal’s legendary ‘Invincibles’ of 2004, has been training with the Gunners to stay in shape as he looks for a new club. But with young Swiss centre-back Johan Djourou set for a long-term injury layoff and Philippe Senderos wanting a transfer, Wenger may be forced to rethink Campbell, a player he allowed to move to Portsmouth a few years back. “I love Sol Campbell. The fact he came back here and wanted to practise with us shows he loves the club as well. You never say never in this kind of situation,” commented Wenger. “He can still do a job in the Premier League, especially now he’s fit.”

Fergie tight fisted and other transfer rumours

Manchester United will not spend money on big-name players in the January transfer window despite manager Sir Alex Ferguson having £60m at his disposal. According to reports, the fiery Scot does not see any value in the transfer market and is unwilling to waste money on “over-priced players.” But following the club’s shock defeat to Aston Villa on Saturday, their fourth of the current campaign, the Red Devils boss may have to rethink his position. Elsewhere, Tottenham are chasing Lazio's £4m-rated Macedonia striker Goran Pandev; Manchester United are close to striking a deal to sign Schalke goalkeeper Manuel Neuer for £10m at the end of the season; and Newcastle have offered Manchester United defender Steven Taylor in exchange for their young striker Federico Marcheda.

United legends roll on

The illustrious Manchester United careers of Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes will roll on for another season. The ageing duo, 36 and 35 respectively, were told on Friday that they would be offered one year extensions to their current contracts. Said United manager Sir Alex Ferguson: "Every player who gets into his 30s starts to wonder what's going to happen. We will certainly be offering Ryan a new contract for next season, when he'll be 37. That is what we think of him, he has been amazingly consistent. And when you consider Paul's performance at West Ham, and at Wolfsburg in midweek, there is no reason to think he can't do it again next season as well.” In other news, 19-year-old striker Danny Wellbeck extended his contract with the Red Devils until 2013.

Masch: Our season starts now

No more excuses! This is the message from midfield maestro Javier Mascherano to his Liverpool teammates as the season hits the crucial festive season period. The Reds face Arsenal on Sunday knowing that defeat will severely dent their hopes of qualifying for next season’s Champions League. "The season starts again for us now. Obviously everyone would have liked to have started it in a different way, but we can't change anything about that," said Mascherano on Friday. "What we can do is change it from now and into the future - and we will try to start this weekend. Beating Arsenal is a great chance for us and would be a great way to start. It would be a big statement from us for the rest of the season.” The Reds currently trail EPL leaders Chelsea by 11 points and have crashed out of this season’s Champions League.

Don’t write us off – Wenger

Arsenal can still win the EPL this season because leaders Chelsea are likely to slip up, insists Arsene Wenger. And with the Gunners playing Liverpool on Sunday, Wenger believes a win will put his team right back in the title hunt. “I said after our game with them that Chelsea will drop points. One week later they lost to Man City,” said Wenger on Friday. “They have lost three out of 15 games this season, we have lost four, and that’s why I say it will be maybe more difficult than everybody expects it to be. This season, more than ever, it looks to be very open and because everybody has already slipped up - us at Sunderland, Man United at Burnley - nobody can really predict what will happen.” Arsenal trail Chelsea by eight points.

Scrouge McRedknapp

Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp has ordered his players to cancel all Christmas parties because the time to celebrate will be at the end of the season if they secure a Champions League place. "Don't have one, that's the only advice I have," Redknapp said on Friday. "I don't see the point because they're nothing but aggravation for everybody. Everyone's waiting for you to trip up, go out and get drunk or act silly. You don't need that. It's a long season and at the end of that, if we are successful and achieve something at Tottenham, they can go and have a party.” Spurs currently lie fourth in the EPL, nine points behind leaders Chelsea. They play Wolves on Saturday.

RVN to Spurs and other transfer rumours

Ruud Van Nistelrooy has again been linked with a move to Tottenham. On Friday Spurs manager Harry Redknapp admitted he would be keen to sign the 33-year-old striker if Real Madrid made him available in the January transfer window. Liverpool and Arsenal are also reportedly tracking the former Manchester United forward. Elsewhere, Real Madrid have offered 23-year-old Argentine centre back Ezequiel Garay to Manchester United for around £6m; Sunderland, Hull and Blackburn are keeping tabs on Colin Kazim-Richards after the winger was transfer-listed by Turkish side Fenerbahce; and Everton have opened talks with striker Louis Saha over a new contract, with his current two-year deal due to expire in the summer.

Hammers striker's heartbreak

West ham striker Dean Ashton has had to take the heartbreaking decision to retire from football – at just 26. The former England international has been battling an ankle injury picked up on international duty in 2006 and has been warned he may never walk again if he continues to play football. Ashton has made just 56 appearances for the Hammers (scoring 19 goals) since moving to the club from Norwich for £7.2m in January 2006 and last played for them 15 months ago. The 26-year-old is considering going into coaching as a new career.

Fletch's giant nightmares

Darren Fletcher is having nightmares about giant striker John Carew ahead of Manchester United's clash with Aston Villa this weekend. With the current injury crisis at Old Trafford Fletcher has had to stand-in as a makeshift centre-back but is now praying that Nemanja Vidic recovers in time to mark the 1.98m Norwegian. "Do I fancy playing against Carew? I don't know about that. Hopefully Vidic will return and I'll move to right-back," commented a Fletcher on Thursday. "We have a few problems at the back and the sooner our defenders get fit the better." Michael Carrick, also a midfielder who has been playing in the heart of United’s defence, is likely to partner Vidic if he recovers in time.

Aquilani begs Rafa for action

Alberto Aquilani is ready to give his all to help Liverpool get their season back on track and has begged Rafa Benitez to give him more time to establish himself. The £20m midfielder finally made his full debut for the Reds in the midweek Champions League loss to Fiorentina, putting in an impressive performance despite hardly playing any football since his move from Roma in June. "I need to play, play, play because I'm in a new team, and I need games now," said the Italian international on Thursday. "My ankle is fine now, I feel good, and now I need to work hard in training for my body. I really hope I can play against Arsenal this weekend," he added.

Robinho enjoying English life

Robinho is adamant his future lies with Manchester City, pouring cold water on rumours that he has been actively looking for a move back to Spain. The Brazilian striker joined City from Real Madrid in August 2008 for a British record fee of £32.5m but has been persistently been linked with a move away from City to Barcelona. "I am very happy here. I think I will stay here five years or 10 years, I don't know," the 25-year-old told the BBC on Thursday. "My family is very happy, the fans love me and I love the fans." Robinho, who has only started four league games this season after battling a niggling ankle injury, also revealed that he is enjoying playing English football. "It is very beautiful," he added. "With every game I play, I feel more comfortable. I hope to continue playing football in England for a long time."

Spurs to sell £15m flop and other transfer rumours

Tottenham are looking to sell David Bentley in the January transfer window. The midfielder has been an utter flop at White Hart Land since his £15m move to the club from Blackburn. Once touted as the next David Beckham, Spurs will be lucky to receive half the money paid to Rovers for the one-time England international. Elsewhere, Blackburn are tracking French under-21 midfielder Amine Linganzi from St Etienne; Wigan will release goalkeeper Richard Kingson in the new year after the Ghanaian failed to unseat Chris Kirkland from the number one spot; and new Portsmouth boss Avram Grant has been told to sell players in January as the club's cash crisis mounts.

High praise for 'phenomenal' Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo has won high praise from a player who is considered one of the best ever. French maestro Zinedine Zidane on Wednesday said the Portuguese winger is "not just very good, he is phenomenal!" This follows his two-goal standout performance against Marseille in the Champions League earlier this week. "He does fantastic things, at times even better then me," commented Zizou. "Only great players can score such a magnificent goal three minutes into a game. He makes a difference. Some players are different from the rest because they do what others can't." Zidane played for Real Madrid from 2001-06 and was a three-time FIFA World Player of the Year. Like Ronaldo, he was also once the world’s most expensive player when he moved from Juventus to Real for £45.6m in 2001.

Owen to let goals do the talking

Michael Owen wants to let his goals do the talking as he pushes for a place in England’s World Cup squad. The Manchester United striker bagged a hat-trick against Wolfsburg earlier this week to remind England coach Fabio Capello that he has lost none of his predatory finishing skills. "I've never liked talking about myself too much," said Owen after Tuesday’s match. "I always prefer to talk about the team. You can't score a hat-trick without the team playing really well." Owen, who has not played for the England national team since March 2008, is competing with Jermain Defoe, Darren Bent, Carlton Cole, Peter Crouch and Emile Heskey for the striking places in Capello’s 23-man squad for next year’s finals in South Africa. Interestingly, Owen is the only one playing Champions League football this season.

Sol loves idea of Red Devils move

Veteran defender Sol Campbell is honoured to be linked with a move to Manchester United but admits he has had no official contact from the club yet. The 35-year-old, who is currently clubless after an ill-fated move to Notts County earlier this season lasted just one match, is currently training with former club Arsenal in order to stay fit. But on Wednesday he was linked with a six-month move to United to help Sir Alex Ferguson who has lost defenders Wes Brown, Rio Ferdinand, John O’Shea Gary Neville and the Da Silva twins to injury. "I have heard nothing officially from Manchester United, but there have been suggestions and of course, it would be a great move for me, if it happens," Campbell told ESPN Soccernet. "Of course I would love to play for Manchester United, but I am not counting any chickens, just waiting to see what happens."

Cole demands five-from-five

Chelsea must win their remaining five matches of 2009 in order to stamp their authority on the EPL. This is according to midfielder Joe Cole after the Blues disappointing 2-2 draw with minnows Apel Nicosia in the Champions League stretched their winless run to three matches. "It has been a bit of a bumpy week and we need to bounce back at the weekend now and get back to winning ways," commented Cole on Wednesday. "The next five league games are very important - the build-up to Christmas is always a very important period, and Christmas as well." Chelsea play Everton this weekend followed by clashes with Portsmouth, West Ham, Birmingham and Fulham. "Every team in the league is difficult to play against. There are no excuses though. We are at the top of the table now and hopefully will be there on January 1," added Cole.

Gunners chase Spurs flop and other transfer gossip

Tottenham flop Roman Pavlyuchenko has been linked with a shock move to the club’s bitter north London rivals Arsenal. Apparently Arsene Wenger wants the Russian, who cost Spurs £14m from Spartak Moscow, to fill the void left by the long-term injury to Robin Van Persie. Elsewhere, muscular Cote d’Ivoire midfielder Yaya Toure has ruled out a move to the EPL, insisting he is happy at Barcelona; Ruud Van Nistelrooy could be on his way back to England - but not to a big club - with Blackburn chasing his signature; and Sunderland are keeping close tabs on Belgium Under-21 keeper Simon Mignolet as cover for the crocked Craig Gordon.

Sir Alex hails ‘fantastic’ Mickey O

Sir Alex Ferguson hailed Michael Owen’s performance after the former England international netted a hat-trick as Manchester United beat German champions Wolfsburg 3-1 in the Champions League on Tuesday. The result by a makeshift Red Devils side sees them finish top of Group B. "It was a fantastic performance," said Ferguson afterwards. "Michael's finishing and positional play were superb. The evidence of a player is always on the field and Michael has given us that. He has proved his worth and I'm delighted with his performance." United needed at least a draw to finish top of their group. Owen opened the scoring late in the first half before Edin Dzeko equalised for the hosts. The 29-year-old Owen then slotted two late goals for the EPL champions to secure the points.

Ancelotti blasts Chelsea flops

Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti has blasted his players after their Champions League draw with Apoel Nicosia on Tuesday. An error late in the game by midfielder John Obi Mikel allowed the Cypriot minnows to net an equaliser. "It was the worst display since I came here. In the second half we lost intensity, lost concentration, we played too slowly and too soft," fumed Ancelotti afterwards. "For this, I'm not happy. We have to play 90 minutes with intensity and concentration. It's not important about the result. It's important to play our best every game and I told the players that." Apoel had earlier stunned the Blues with a sixth minute opener before Michael Essien netted a thunderous 25 yard strike. Didier Drogba then put Chelsea ahead when he produced an excellent finish from a Yuri Zhirkov cross before Nenad Mirosavljevic raced clear to equalise with three minutes left.

Rafa remains defiant

Rafael Benitez is adamant he will lead Liverpool to a top four finish in the EPL this season and secure them Champions League football in 2010-11. Speaking ahead of the club’s dead Champions League rubber against Fiorentina on Wednesday, Benitez vowed to turn the Reds season around after a dismal run of just two wins in their last 13 matches. "I am convinced we will have Champions League football back here next season," he said confidently on Tuesday. "We have a good team, a good squad and we can win games in a row now. We have not lost in six and kept three consecutive clean sheets, that is positive and an improvement on what was happening a few weeks ago." Liverpool play Arsenal, Wigan and Portsmouth in their next three EPL games. "We must win those games to get ourselves back into a strong position," added Benitez.

Blues are a one man show - Cesc

Chelsea are a one man show, according to Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas. The EPL leading Blues recently thumped Arsenal 3-0 with Didier Drogba bagging two goals. "Overall, I saw a Chelsea team that was normal but a team that has probably the best striker in the world, and that makes such a difference," Fábregas said. "An average team that has the best striker in the world can always do something and Didier Drogba makes all the difference to them. Without him, their team would not be the same," added the Spanish midfielder. Arsenal, who lie third in the EPL standings, currently trail Chelsea by eight points.

United in shock move and other transfer rumours

Manchester United are preparing to make a shock move for veteran centre-back Sol Campbell in a bid to solve their injury crisis. With Jonny Evans, Wes Brown, Gary Neville and Rio Ferdinand all out injured, Sir Alex Ferguson wants Campbell to help fill the void. The 35-year-old has been training with his former club Arsenal in order to keep fit after an ill-fated move to Notts County earlier this season saw him only feature in one match before leaving the club. Elsewhere, Manchester City are leading the hunt for AC Milan full-back Ignazio Abate; Sunderland are offering Anton Ferdinand in exchange for Tottenham’s Alan Hutton; LA Galaxy star Landon Donovan is being tracked by Everton; Aston Villa striker John Carew is a £5m target for Turkish giants Fenerbahce; and Manchester City are set to make a £12m bid for Bayern Munich defender Philipp Lahm in January.

Don't write-off City – Ballack

Manchester City can win the EPL title this season despite being 11 points off the pace at the moment. This is according to Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack who was part of the league leading team that were shot down 2-1 by Mark Hughes’ charges on Saturday. "We lost to a strong team that looks like they are ready to fight for the title," conceded Ballack on Monday. "I don't know what their target is but they showed they had a good team and with a bit of luck they can beat teams like us." And with City’s billionaire Arab owners set to splash a lot of cash in the January transfer window, the Eastlands outfit may be readying to mount a late title push. "They have a lot of good players, it is not a surprise," added Ballack.

United stretched to breaking point

Manchester United’s defensive crisis took a turn for the worse on Monday with the news that John O’Shea and Jonny Evans would be out until next year. The duo will miss five EPL matches and Tuesday's Champions League game against Wolfsburg. The Red Devils have a total of eight defenders in the treatment room at present, with Nemanja Vidic (flu), Rio Ferdinand (calf), Wes Brown (hamstring), Gary Neville (groin), Rafael (shoulder) and Fabio (groin) all nursing knocks. Things are so bad that United ended Saturday’s game against West Ham with Michael Carrick in central defence and Ryan Giggs at left-back. Carrick looks set to continue in the unaccustomed role against Wolfsburg, possibly alongside fellow midfielder Darren Fletcher. And with strikers Wayne Rooney (hamstring) and Dimitar Berbatov (knee) now also doubts for Saturday's meeting with Aston Villa, Sir Alex Ferguson's squad is stretched to near breaking point.

Snub for EPL stars

No EPL stars have been short listed for the Fifa World Player of the Year award. On Monday it was announced that Barcelona trio Lionel Messi, Andres Iniesta and Xavi, and Real Madrid duo Cristiano Ronaldo and Kaka would by vying for the prestigious award. Messi is favourite to land the title after narrowly missing out to Ronaldo last year. The 22-year-old would be the first Argentine to win the award. Messi, Iniesta and Xavi were the heartbeat of the Barcelona team that won La Liga, the Copa del Rey and the Champions League last season. EPL stars Steven Gerrard, Wayne Rooney, Frank Lampard and John Terry all failed to make the shortlist after being included in an original pool of 23 contenders announced in October. The winner will announced on 21 December.

Lightweight Gunners

Cesc Fabregas has joined team-mate Andrei Arshavin in claiming Arsenal players are too small to mix it with the big boys of the EPL. His comments follow the Gunners recent losses to Manchester City and Chelsea in which they were largely out-muscled. "Throughout the game (at Manchester City) we had a lot of possession but didn’t really have anyone to go in behind defenders apart from Carlos (Vela). We had a lot of similar players, who like the ball into their feet. Sometimes it’s true that you need a different kind of option," claimed Fabregas on Monday. "Perhaps we had the same kind of problem at Chelsea, not really having someone whose game is to go beyond defenders, and we were a little small to fight against them on crosses too."

United no go for Dzeko and other transfer gossip

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has played down talk linking the club to giant Wolfsburg striker Edin Dzeko. The 23-year-old Bosnian is one of the most highly-rated players in Europe, having scored 40 times in 75 Bundesliga appearances. Said Ferguson on Monday: "Every time someone does well, we are going to buy him the next day. There is nothing from Manchester United at this moment concerning Edin Dzeko." Elsewhere, Arsenal have been linked with a move for young Spanish striker Bojan Krkic who is reportedly frustrated with a lack of first team action at Barcelona; Tottenham striker Robbie Keane could be on his way to Celtic if the Scots can meet his wage demands, and Birmingham City manager Alex McLeish is keen on taking Fulham left-back Paul Konchesky on loan.

Reds ready to fight for Masch

Liverpool are ready to fight ‘tooth-and-nail’ to hang on to Javier Mascherano. The Argentine midfielder has been widely linked with a £30m move to Barcelona after reports suggested he was unhappy on Merseyside. But manager Rafa Benitez has now revealed that the club are in talks to extend the 25-year-old’s contract. "We are happy and he is happier now. The last conversations that we had were very positive," revealed Benitez on Sunday. "Everyone can see he's doing really well and has come back to his best. We were really pleased to talk to him to make progress," he added. Mascherano, who initially moved to Anfield on loan, eventually cost the club £18m. Benitez said even an offer of £50m would not be enough to sign the player. "Clubs can forget about bidding for him - he has no price and he's happy here."

Harry defends Spurs after sloppy draw

Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp insists his charges still have what it takes to finish in the top-four despite watching them throw two valuable points away on Sunday. Two late goals from Everton and an injury-time penalty miss by Jermaine Defoe meant Spurs failed to move past Arsenal into third place on the EPL standings. Redknapp, however, refused to accept that the setback was proof that his team still had some way to go to secure a place in the Champions League. "I don't think we've done an awful lot wrong. At 2-0 it was game over," Redknapp told Sky Sports. "We gave a sloppy goal away to give them a sniff. They threw the kitchen sink at us, the crowd got behind them and we conceded another poor goal. It was very disappointing because we outplayed them for at least 80 minutes."

Rooney naps through World Cup draw

Wayne Rooney was one of the last people in England to discover which group the country had been drawn in for next year’s World Cup, after falling asleep during Friday’s announcement. England will play USA, Algeria and Slovenia in the group stage of the 2010 finals in South Africa. Rooney, however, missed the draw, admitting he fell asleep in his hotel room after Manchester United’s train journey to London on Friday. "We got the train down and we were in the hotel about five o’clock, when I lay down on my bed to watch the TV. But I fell asleep and didn’t find out what the draw was until five hours later." But he did concede that the draw was kind to England. "It was a good draw," he added.

Defensive crisis at Old Trafford

Sir Alex Ferguson is set to turn one of his midfielders into a makeshift defender after an injury crisis fell on Old Trafford. With both Wes Brown and Gary Neville limping off during United’s 4-0 win over West Ham on Saturday, Fergie was forced to play Michael Carrick and Ryan Giggs as defenders. And with Rio Ferdinand, Jonny Evans, John O'Shea, Neville, Rafael and Brown all injured, it looks as though Carrick will play in central defence alongside Nemanja Vidic in this week’s Champions league clash with Wolfsburg. "The injuries in defence are becoming a bit of a headache to us. Carrick stepped in and did very, very well. He's got the composure and the pace," said Ferguson on Saturday, after watching his charges close the gap on EPL leaders Chelsea to two points.

No Ruud move for Arsene and other transfer rumours

Arsene Wenger has ruled out a move for Ruud Van Nistelrooy but admitted that the club were in the market for a striker. Wenger said the Real Madrid striker was not an appropriate signing because he remained an enemy in the eyes of the Arsenal fans because of the time he spent at Manchester United. Elsewhere, Spurs are chasing young Cote d’Ivoire striker Seydo Doumbia who plays in Switzerland for Young Boys of Berne; Everton want to lure former Manchester United striker Diego Forlan, who currently plays for Atletico Madrid; Chelsea are keen to sign Sevilla striker Luis Fabiano in January, but may have to wait until the summer, when the 29-year-old Brazilian will be available for £24m; and Manchester United are tracking 1.93m Bosnian striker Edin Dzeko, who may be available for £15m - but he wants to move to AC Milan.

Ronaldo sees first Real Red

Cristiano Ronaldo missed a penalty and received the first red-card of his Real Madrid career on Saturday. The world's most expensive player was given his marching orders for a second bookable offence during Real’s 4-2 win over Almeria at the Bernebeau. He was yellow-carded for removing his shirt after scoring Real's fourth goal and then received another card in the last minute of play for a foul. Goals by Sergio Ramos, Gonzalo Higuain, Karim Benzema and Ronaldo secured the victory for the Meringues although they remain five points behind La Liga leaders Barcelona who ran out 3-1 winners over Deportivo La Coruna.

Defensive crisis at Old Trafford

Manchester United may have closed the gap on Chelsea to just two points after their 4-0 drubbing of West Ham on Saturday, but it came at some price. With both Wes Brown and Gary Neville limping off at Upton Park, Sir Alex Ferguson was forced to play Ryan Giggs and Darren Fletcher at left and right-back respectively, while Michael Carrick and Patrice Evra partnered each other in unfamiliar roles in the centre of defence. Said Fergie afterwards: "Evra must be the smallest centre-back in the world. But he's a good reader of the game. He's quick and determined." With Rio Ferdinand, Jonny Evans, Nemanja Vidic and goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar currently sidelined, Ferguson faces a selection dilemma ahead of their Champions League clash with Wolfsburg on Wednesday. "The injuries in defence are becoming a bit of a headache to us," added Ferguson.

Ancelotti blames ref for shock defeat

Carlo Ancelotti has blasted the referee for Chelsea’s 2-1 defeat against Manchester City on Saturday. The result saw their lead at the top of the EPL cut to just two points after second-placed Manchester United’s 4-0 win over West Ham. The Blues took an early lead at Eastlands after an own goal by Emmanual Adebayor, who than made amends by levelling for City before Carlos Tevez hammered home a 56th minute free kick. Frank Lampard could have rescued a point for Chelsea but missed a late penalty. "It was not a good day for the referee," moaned Ancelotti afterwards. "We are disappointed. It was a tough game. We lost but that can happen."

Racist taunts drove Jenas

Tottenham midfielder Jermain Jenas was subjected to racist taunts when he was growing up on a housing estate in Nottingham. Speaking to the News of the World newspaper on Sunday, the England international says he was called often called "nigger" but this made him even more determined to become a professional footballer. "I grew up with a white mum and a black dad and my mum taught me that people are equal no matter what their colour," Jenas is quoted as saying. "But a lot of the kids in Clifton were not of that mindset. I'd go to school, someone would call me a racist name, I had a short fuse then and might react in the wrong way. However, I was always respected for my football skills. So all the people who'd call me racist names always wanted me in their team at the weekend."

Cesc to Spain and other transfer rumours

Cesc Fabregas is a wanted man back in his home country. According to reports from Spain, the Arsenal skipper is set to become the subject of a £50m bidding war between Barcelona and Real Madrid. And with influential Spanish newspaper Marca claiming that he has decided to leave Arsenal there could now be truth is the constant speculation linking him with a move away from Arsenal. Elsewhere, Arsenal are set to make a move for West Ham striker Carlton Cole and will tempt the Hammers with a £15m bid; Barcelona are ready to offer Liverpool £30m for defensive midfielder Javier Mascherano; Manchester United have admitted that they are interested in £15m-rated Wolfsburg goal ace Edin Dzeko; and Patrick Vieira could make a shock move to Chelsea who need cover for Michael Essien and John Mikel Obi who will be away on African Nations Cup duty early next year.