Guardiola: I try to learn from Bielsa

The 41-year-old was full of compliments for the former Chile coach and played down the fact that the Basques will have just one full day's rest for the encounter at Camp Nou.

Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola has heaped praise on Athletic Bilbao boss Marcelo Bielsa, saying the Argentine is the best in the business ahead of their Primera Division clash on Saturday.

The Blaugrana are six points behind Real Madrid in the race for the Liga title and Guardiola is extremely wary of the Basque side and the tactical nous of Bielsa.

"I consider him the best there is and it is a pleasure for me to face him," Guardiola said during a press conference.

"I have so much admiration for Bielsa and I try to learn from him. Athletic have been the sensation of Europe this season. They deserve the admiration of all.

"In the games I've seen, they have been a pleasure to watch. This will be a complicated game, very tough and very demanding.

Guardiola then played down the significance of the fact that Athletic will have just one day’s rest for the encounter at Camp Nou.

The Basques have only just returned home after beating Schalke 4-2 in their Europa League quarter-final clash in Gelsenkirchen on Thursday night and, under normal circumstances, they would not be asked to return to Primera Division action until Sunday lunchtime at the earliest.

However, with Barca due to face AC Milan in the Champions League on Tuesday, the meeting between the two sides will be staged a day earlier.

"The timing is what it is," Guardiola said. "It's better to have three or four days off but teams that want to reach the finals must play many matches close together and in this kind of situation.

"And we'll do well not to think that Athletic will arrive here tired. But I encourage the fans to come to the ground because it will be a very good game to see."

Barca's meeting with Athletic gets underway at Camp Nou at 22.00CET.

Neymar: Brasileirao is one of the toughest leagues in the world

The Brazil international is expected to join Barcelona after the 2014 World Cup but he does not buy into the idea that he needs to move to Europe in order to improve

Santos forward Neymar has insisted that he is happy plying his trade in his native Brazil in what he feels is one of the most competitive leagues in the world.

The Selecao starlet has been heavily linked with a move to Barca and it was claimed that the striker was left feeling compelled to join the Blaugrana after Santos' 4-0 loss to the Catalans in the final of last December's Club World Cup in order to realise his full potential.

However, Neymar insists he is happy at Santos and sees no reason to leave his homeland.

"I felt no extra desire to play in Europe after that game," he told Terra. "I'm very happy here representing Santos.

"We still have to grow a lot, but I do too. One of the toughest leagues in the world is the Brasileirao, right here in Brazil.

"There are 10 or 15 favourites for the title. For me, it is one of the world's toughest championships."

Neymar, who has already been capped 16 times by Brazil, recently committed himself to Santos up until the 2014 World Cup.

Gregory van der Wiel to make injury comeback with Jong Ajax

The Dutchman's frustrating recovery from a groin injury is set to come to an end as he is expected to feature for the reserves on Monday

Gregory van der Wiel is set to make his long-awaited Ajax comeback with the reserve team, the club's official website has confirmed.

The right-back is yet to play in 2012 after picking up a groin injury, and has suffered several frustrating setbacks in the course of his recovery.

Van der Wiel recently resumed training, and although his side's clash with Heracles on Sunday comes to soon, the 24-year-old will feature for Jong Ajax on Monday.

Meanwhile, another sidelined star, Kolbein Sigthorsson, made his return for the reserves last Monday, playing for the first time since October.

The Amsterdam club will look to keep up their bid to retain their Eredivisie title when they entertain Heracles on Sunday.

Frank de Boer's men currently sit in second place, a solitary point behind AZ with seven rounds of the league campaign remaining.

Borussia Dortmund ready to double Kagawa's wages - report

The Bundesliga champions are determined to hold on to the Japan international, and have reportedly offered the attacking midfielder a new deal worth €3m per year

Borussia Dortmund are desperate to hold on to Shinji Kagawa and are ready to double the attacker's current wages in order to keep him at the Bundesliga champions, Bild reports.

The 23-year-old currently earns €1.5 million per season, but BVB have offered the Japan international a new deal worth €3m per year.

Kagawa's current contract runs until the summer of 2013, but Dortmund are keen to keep him at the club until June 2016.

"Shinji is one of our key players and we are very keen to extend with him. The ball is in his court though," sporting director Michael Zorc commented to Bild.

Kagawa joined Borussia Dortmund from Cerezo Osaka in the summer of 2010 and has since developed into a key player at BVB.

He has netted 11 times in 24 Bundesliga appearances this term, as well as setting up seven more.

Wenger calls for focus ahead of Arsenal run-in

The Gunners recently embarked on a run of seven consecutive wins to propel them back into the top four and put them in the driving seat for Champions League qualification

Arsene Wenger has urged his Arsenal squad to maintain their focus for the final eight Premier League games of the season.

The north London outfit currently sit third after putting together a superb run of seven back-to-back victories, including a 5-2 derby win over Tottenham.

"This is the period where what we do matters the most, so we just want to keep our focus on this and not worry about anybody else's results," Wenger said.

"We have shown footballing and mental qualities in recent weeks and now we need to continue our development."

Wenger's side travel to across London on Saturday to face QPR, who are currently languishing in the relegation zone.

Since overtaking Tottenham for third position, the Gunners need only to better their rivals' results to claim the final automatic Champions League qualifying spot.

"We are now at the stage of the season where every day in the Premier League seems to have turning points," Wenger added.

"What is most important now is our consistency and momentum."

Afellay on Inter radar - report

The Nerazzurri are desperate to add some fresh blood to their squad this summer after a disappointing season, and see the Dutchman as a valuable addition

Ibrahim Afellay could be on his way out of Barcelona at the end of the season as Inter have expressed an interest in signing the Netherlands international in the summer transfer window, Corriere dello Sport reports.

The Nerazzurri are desperate to strengthen their squad ahead of the 2012-13 campaign following a disastrous season, and sporting director Marco Branca sees the 25-year-old Afellay as the perfect addition.

The former PSV star has a contract until 2015 with Barcelona, but Inter are hopeful that the Catalans are open to talks as the breakthrough of Cristian Tello and Isaac Cuenca this season has given them more options in attack.

Afellay joined Barcelona from PSV in January 2011 and won La Liga and the Champions League in his first season at Camp Nou.
However, the versatile attacking midfielder has spent the past six months on the sidelines due to a knee injury.

He recently resumed regular training action and could make his comeback in the next few weeks.

Sir Alex Ferguson takes Manchester United players on golfing mini-break to escape title pressure

Red Devils boss makes unprecedented move to head for weekend retreat at this stage of run-in, with some of younger players said to be "on edge"

Manchester United’s players have been taken to a golfing retreat in Scotland for the weekend to escape the title pressure, Goal.com can reveal.

Manager Sir Alex Ferguson has decided to take his squad on a mini-break to his homeland because he is said to feel that some of the younger players “are on edge” as the battle for Premier League supremacy with rivals Manchester City hots up.

The United players and backroom staff were due to fly to Scotland on Friday and return on Sunday night, when they will head directly to the team hotel to prepare for Monday’s trip to Blackburn Rovers.

Sources have said that the players were told by staff to bring in their luggage to the training ground on Friday morning because they were going on a mini-break.

“Initially the players thought they might be going to somewhere exotic like Dubai,” a source told Goal.com. “But half the squad were told they were going to Gleneagles and the other half to St Andrews.

“Fergie wanted to keep the players guessing a bit because he wants complete isolation and for the trip to be away from the prying eyes of the media.

"The trip will involve a bit of training, some golf, and some rest and recuperation to relax the players ahead of the run-in"

Intriguingly, United sources say that it is unprecedented for Ferguson to take his players away for a mini-break at this stage of the title race.

“It is the first time in a title run-in that the manager has felt the need to take the pressure off like this,” a source added. “No-one has ever known anything like it. There was just a feeling among some of the staff that the younger players are on edge.”

The Fulham match on Monday, when United stuttered to a 1-0 victory after being fortunate not to concede a late penalty, was the first indication that some of the players may be starting to feel the pressure.

It comes at a time when increasingly terse words are being traded across Manchester between the two title-chasing clubs.

Patrick Vieira, Manchester City’s director of football development, has irked United in the last week by calling Paul Scholes’s return from retirement a “sign of weakness” before shifting the spotlight to the club’s treatment at the hands of referees.

Ferguson has hit back at the claim by saying City have enjoyed their own luck with decisions and suggesting the Frenchman is risking sanctions if he continues to talk about referees.

City anxious to avoid others' title collapses

It's 'squeaky bum time' and the nightmare scenario at Eastlands is that all their good work evaporates in a puff of panic - a fate that has befallen others before them

The ability of would-be champions Manchester City to withstand pressure will be put to the test when Sunderland visit the Etihad Stadium on Saturday.

Roberto Mancini’s side are trailing neighbours United by three points but can reclaim top spot on goal difference with victory over the Black Cats. There is no margin for error, though: with United having the chance to re-establish their lead 48 hours later at Blackburn, City know they simply have to beat Martin O’Neill’s side.

They also know many feel they are about to implode, that their mental strength will be found wanting in the rarefied atmosphere of psychological warfare against their battle-hardened rivals across town.

A foray into the minefield of mind-games by City executive Patrick Vieira was possibly ill-advised against so wily an adversary as Sir Alex Ferguson, whose response was merely to fling the “desperation” of recalling Carlos Tevez back into City’s faces. Having led the table so convincingly for so long, the prospect of finishing empty-handed will be gnawing away at City.

There is a whiff of anxiety emanating from Eastlands – hardly surprising in view of City’s worryingly underwhelming away form. But if they do miss out on the title, they will certainly not be the first team to blow what was once a substantial advantage. Goal.com recalls some of the others.

Manchester City ready to launch sensational bid to sign Cristiano Ronaldo from Real Madrid this summer

Abu Dhabi powerbrokers willing to match £80 million world-record transfer fee and sanction salary of between £400,000-a-week and £500,000-a-week to land Portuguese icon

Manchester City are ready to deliver a sensational package to sign Cristiano Ronaldo from Real Madrid this summer, Goal.com can reveal.

The Premier League club are understood to be willing to match the world-record transfer fee of £80 million (€96m) that Real paid Manchester United for Ronaldo in 2009, and wages of between £400,000-a-week (€478,000) and £500,000-a-week (€598,000) to land the Portuguese icon.

Sources in both Manchester and Spain have told Goal.com that there has been contact between intermediaries in recent weeks to gauge the player’s interest in returning to Manchester and the early indications from the 27-year-old's camp is that he could be open to a transfer that would send shockwaves through football.

Ronaldo's agent Jorge Mendes has become increasingly close to senior City officials over the past year.

It is understood that Abu Dhabi go-betweens floated the idea to Ronaldo last summer but the feedback from the player was that it was not the right time.

"The signs now from the Ronaldo camp are surprisingly more positive," a source close to the situation told Goal.com. "The contact has taken place in the last few weeks and there is serious chatter in the corridors at the Etihad, akin to when City tried to sign Kaka from AC Milan a few years back."

Owner Sheikh Mansour, advised by the club’s senior hierarchy in Abu Dhabi, is a huge admirer of Ronaldo and has tremendous respect for Real Madrid as a footballing institution.

Although City strongly refuted on Friday that the club have made any move to sign the forward, it is understood that the billionaire owner is ready to sanction the monies if there is a deal to be done.

"City want a marquee signing this summer to confirm their emergence as serious players among football’s elite," the source added.

"Ideally, they would do so from a position of strength as Premier League champions but whatever happens in the title race they want to send out a statement of intent.

"Ronaldo is the one they have wanted for a long time. They know they will not get Lionel Messi."

Three years on from the failed attempt to sign Kaka from AC Milan in a world record €108m deal (worth £90m at current exchange rates), the Sheikh’s advisers are confident that the club’s growth on and off the pitch will enable them to hold firm in their dealings with the nine-time European champions.

City’s powerbrokers are also confident that the staggering sums required to entice Ronaldo to Etihad Stadium would not contravene Uefa’s financial fair play regulations, which the club are fully-committed to satisfying.

Sheikh Mansour would off-set the cost of signing Ronaldo and at least one other marquee summer signing – with Napoli’s Edinson Cavani the leading centre-forward target - by sanctioning a summer clear-out of big earners who are not central to manager Roberto Mancini’s long-term plans.

The club will listen to offers for Carlos Tevez, who earns £198,000-a-week, Edin Dzeko, who gets £130,000-a-week, Nigel De Jong, who is on £85,000-a-week. On-loan trio Emmanuel Adebayor (£170,000-a-week), Wayne Bridge and Roque Santa Cruz (who both earn £90,000-a-week) can also leave.

City are likely to encounter difficulties in shifting them from the wage bill but if they do so it would free up nearly £800,000-a-week, equivalent to an eye-watering £38m per annum, around a quarter of the Premier League record £174m salary bill revealed in the club’s 2010-11 financial accounts.

Ronaldo’s six-year Real contract, which runs until 2015, was initially worth £250,000-a-week but has built-in incremental rises which will swell the figure to around £400,000-a-week in the final year of the deal.

Such is the Portuguese’s vast marketing potential, built around the CR7 brand, City are confident they would be able to recoup much of their outlay through shirt sales, merchandise tie-ups and other commercial spin-offs.

The parameters of the deal would be quite similar to the offer made to Kaka in 2009, with City believed to be prepared to fund a series of soccer schools in Ronaldo’s name in a bid to demonstrate their commitment to the player and push his brand.

City's hopes of enticing Ronaldo are not at this stage linked with any move for Jose Mourinho, who is also represented by Mendes.

As revealed by Goal.com earlier this month, club chiefs will assess the position of Roberto Mancini at the end of the season although Mourinho will jump to the top of the club's list of alternatives if there is any indication he could be willing to leave Real.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic pleased with draw against Barcelona

The Swede believes that the result leaves his side in with a shout in the tie, while team-mate Urby Emanuelson wants to move on from his missed chance during the first leg

AC Milan striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic was satisfied with his team’s goalless draw against Barcelona in their Champions League quarter-final first-leg clash at San Siro on Wednesday.

The Swede missed a great chance to score against his former club, but with Milan able to shut out the Catalan giants and prevent an away goal, Ibrahimovic remains in good spirits for the second leg at Camp Nou next week.

“We had some opportunities but, unfortunately, we were unable to score,” said Ibrahimovic to Sky Sport 24 after the match.

“However, the result is very good for us. I am optimistic for the second leg.”

Fellow forward Urby Emanuelson is also looking to move on quickly to the return leg, after spurning a great opportunity within seconds of his arrival as a substitute during the second half.

“My appearance was a bit unlucky," Emanuelson told NOS. "In my first action I could have scored but forgot the ball. That can happen.

"I know that was a very important moment, but what can I do about it right now after the match? Let's try better next time.

“I think we will get chances next week. Barcelona always play their own game, so we will have opportunities,”

The Dutchman was also relieved that his side were able to keep Lionel Messi at bay during the game, with the Argentine forward unable to add to his 12 Champions League goals in the current campaign.

“Messi played like Messi. He's always dangerous and never plays a bad match. We're glad he did not score tonight.”

Xavi: We deserved to win against AC Milan

The 32-year-old midfielder says that the Blaugrana did enough to secure a better result, while noting that his side should have been awarded a penalty

Barcelona playmaker Xavi believes that his side were worthy of a victory against AC Milan in Wednesday's goalless Champions League draw at San Siro.

The Spanish side had several chances to score and had two penalty appeals turned down, but will return home with a result that leaves the quarter-final tie wide open for the return leg at Camp Nou next Tuesday.

"In the first few minutes we had some problems, but after that we did well," Xavi told reporters after the match.

"We had a great match and we dominated. We had several chances to score. We were unable to score, but we deserved to win.

"There was also a penalty in our favour. Christian Abbiati's foul on Alexis Sanchez was clear."

Meanwhile, Javier Mascherano refused to comment on Milan's approach to the game, but criticised the poor turf at San Siro.

"A defensive Milan? Everyone does what is best for them," the Argentine midfielder said.

"The pitch? It was bad, but I do not think that Milan wanted to play on a pitch like that either. It is just that they are not able to find a solution to this problem."

Manchester City set to beat United to £25m transfer target Javi Martinez

The 23-year-old Athletic Bilbao star has been touted for a move to a host of European clubs this summer, with Roberto Mancini scouting the Spaniard several times of late

Manchester City are set to beat title rivals United to the £25 million signing of Athletic Bilbao midfielder Javi Martinez this summer.

We understands that City boss Roberto Mancini has sent scouts to watch the former Osasuna man, who can also play at centre-back, a number of times this year as the Italian looks to shore up his squad ahead of next season’s Champions League campaign.

Sir Alex Ferguson is already believed to be keen on the Spain international after he helped Bilbao knock the Red Devils out of the Europa League earlier this month, with Liverpool also eyeing a move for the 23-year-old.

While Martinez’s contract has a buy-out clause of £34m, the Basque club are understood to be open to an offer in the region of £25m despite the player’s current deal not expiring until 2016.

City would be willing to pay the fee, particularly with striker Carlos Tevez still likely to leave Eastlands in the coming transfer window, despite Martinez himself recently suggesting he is not worth such a large sum.

“I do not think there's anyone who wants to pay so much for me,” he told Mundo Deportivo.

“I see it as too much money for me. I do not think I'm worth so much.”

The Spaniard’s ability to play in both midfield and at the back could be a determining factor in Mancini’s pursuit, particularly with the club suffering from defensive shortages earlier in the season, while the loan acquisition of David Pizarro from Roma in January suggests the former Inter boss is still keen to improve his options in the centre of the park.

David Silva has also given his international team-mate a ringing endorsement, with the former Valencia man keen to see his countryman arrive at Eastlands following their World Cup winning exploits in 2010.

However, City face competition not only from their Premier League rivals for Martinez’s signature, but also from Real Madrid, Barcelona and Inter, who have all been strongly linked with the a move for the player.

Messi better than Maradona, but not Pele

The former attacker has voiced his opinion that the Barcelona star has surpassed his countryman, but is not up there with the Brazil legend yet

Former Brazil international Tostao has stated his belief that Barcelona forward Lionel Messi is a better player than Diego Maradona was, but stressed that the 24-year-old is not of Pele's level just yet.

Messi won the Fifa Ballon d'Or for the third time in succession earlier this year, and is considered by many to be one of the best ever.

However, 65-year-old Tostao feels that the Barca striker still has some way to go before he can be considered Pele's equal.

"Even if you do not take the cold numbers of how many trophies he has won and how many goals he has score into account, I have no doubt about it that he [Messi] is already better than Maradona," Tostao said to Globoesporte.

"Many will disagree because he has not won a World Cup or scored a wondergoal in a big game at the World Cup, but at his current level he is only behind Pele in my opinion.

"Pele was more complete and had qualities that Messi lacks. He scored many headers for example, and make excellent use of his body."

Messi has already netted 35 goals in 28 La Liga appearances in the 2011-12 season.

Michael Owen selects Van Persie as PFA player of the year

Manchester United forward has revealed his picks for the best performers this season, selecting the Dutchman and hailing former side Newcastle United as the team of the year

Michael Owen believes that Arsenal forward Robin Van Persie should be PFA Player of the Year.

The Gunners' skipper has been on form this season scoring 26 league goals so far to fire his side to third in the Premier League above rivals Tottenham.

The Manchester United striker revealed who he has selected for the awards via his Twitter feed: "Player of the season so far? I went for Robin Van Persie. Stand out winner in my opinion.’’

He also revealed his pick for Team of the Year and Young Player of the Year, announcing a number of clubs that he believes have performed well this year.

''Great result yet again from Newcastle today. Team of the year? There are a few candidates but they are my pick so far.

"Newcastle, Swansea, Norwich, Spurs in that order would be my top 4 teams of the season so far.

"Young player of the Year? Tough one to call. Need to be age 23 or under. I went for Tim Krul.’’

Owen revealed his best starting eleven of the campaign which included no Manchester United players as he cannot vote for them under the rules of the awards, but did select three Manchester City players.

The Englishman picked three Newcastle players in Fabricio Coloccini, Cheikh Tiote and Demba Ba along with Joe Hart, Kyle Walker, Vincent Kompany, Leighton Baines, David Silva, Scott Parker, Gareth Bale and Van Persie.

Pique relieved at keeping title hopes alive with win at Mallorca

The Blaugrana were in danger of losing the lead given to them by Lionel Messi when they were reduced to 10-men, but the former Manchester United man popped up with a vital second

Gerard Pique expressed his relief after Barcelona managed to overcome the dismissal of Thiago to record a crucial 2-0 victory over Mallorca on Saturday night which the defender feels keeps their hopes of retaining their La Liga crown very much alive.

The Blaugrana took the lead midway through the first half with a free-kick from talismanic forward Lionel Messi, but they lost Thiago to a second booking during the second period.

However, Pep Guardiola's men dug in and sealed victory courtesy of Pique, who fired home with just over 10 minutes remaining to ensure that Barca remain hot on the heels of La Liga leaders Real Madrid.

"It was very hard to win, especially with 10 men,” the Spain international is quoted as saying by his club's official website after the game. “The three points are very important and we deserved them.

“We tried to control the match; they wanted to equalise, but we played well with 10 players and the most important thing is that our title hopes are still alive.

"All that really matters is winning and we’ve managed to earn a great victory. Winning matches in La Liga and Champions League reinforces out morale."

Barcelona, who trail Madrid by six points, face AC Milan at San Siro on Wednesday night before welcoming Athletic Bilbao to Camp Nou next weekend.

Mesbah: We are AC Milan so we need not fear Barcelona

The seven-time European Cup winners are considered massive underdogs ahead of their clash with the Blaugrana, but the Rossoneri left-back is not afraid of Pep Guardiola's side

Djamel Mesbah believes that AC Milan should not fear Champions League quarter-final opponents Barcelona in light of their own illustrious standing within the game.

The Rossoneri welcome the Blaugrana to San Siro on Wednesday and few pundits are giving the Italian title-holders much chance of upsetting the reigning world, European and Spanish champions.

However, Mesbah believes that coach Massimiliano Allegri will do a fine job of shielding his squad from the negativity and pessimism of the press.

"The boss will do everything to motivate the team ahead of the Barcelona game and we shouldn’t be afraid of them, because we’re Milan," the versatile left-back told his club's official website.

Mesbah's defensive colleague, Daniele Bonera, is also talking up Milan's hopes of progressing to the last four, believing this current squad to be of a similar strength to the one which won the Champions League five years ago.

"All the Milan sides I’ve played have been different," the versatile centre-half mused. "In the first year I won the Champions League and this current squad is close to that."

Milan's meeting with Barca at the Giuseppe Meazza kicks off at 20:45CET.

Fabio Capello is ready to manage again, with Chelsea a possible destination

The former England chief looks set for a return to management, and could well be approached by the London club's owner Roman Abramovich as he looks for AVB's permanent successor

Former England manager Fabio Capello is ready to return to management, and Chelsea could be his desired destination, according to The Mail on Sunday.

Capello resigned from the Three Lions job just under seven weeks ago and his enthusiasm to get back into the game could put Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich on alert.

Abramovich recently sacked Andre Villas-Boas after the inexperienced manager failed to live up to the Russian’s very high expectations. But Capello will be turning 66 soon and has the required experience to start rebuilding the squad at Stamford Bridge.

However, Capello’s name has also been linked with the managerial posts at Tottenham and Liverpool should they become available in the near future.

So if Chelsea’s owner misses out on the ex-Real Madrid chief he could turn his attention to France's current national team coach Laurent Blanc, whose reputation is growing by the season.

Mascherano enjoying defensive role with Barcelona

The Argentina international established a reputation as one of the most combative defensive midfielders in Europe before joining the Blaugrana from Liverpool two years ago

Javier Mascherano insists that he is thoroughly enjoying playing in defence for Barcelona.

The Argentina international is a midfielder by trade but has been regularly utilised as a centre-half by Blaugrana boss Pep Guardiola since arriving at Camp Nou from Liverpool in 2010.

Indeed, Mascherano lined out alongside Carles Puyol and Gerard Pique in a three-man defence in Saturday night's 2-0 win over Mallorca and was extremely pleased with how he performed.

“I feel great playing in the back-line, even though my position on the right-hand side is a bit weird for me," the 27-year-old told his club's official website. "But we did a good job and our defence was great."

Mascherano was thrilled with the victory in Palma as Barca had overcome the loss of Thiago to a red card during the second-half to secure a victory which keeps them in with a chance of overhauling Real Madrid at the top of La Liga.

“We just have to do our work in the best way possible but always looking to see how the leaders are doing," he mused.

“Against Mallorca we kept our composure. We withstood the pressure after losing a player and with the second goal [from Pique on 79 minutes], the game got a bit easier because there wasn’t much time left.

“It was a difficult match but starting tomorrow [Sunday], we have to start thinking about AC Milan. The away leg will be important in the tie.”

Barcelona travel to San Siro for the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final tie with the Rossoneri on Wednesday night.

Manchester United - Fulham Preview

Sir Alex Ferguson's side are on a great run of form as they look to beat their city rivals to a record 20th top flight title, and have a good home record against Martin Jol's team

There are no fresh injury worries for Sir Alex Ferguson, so it should be a case of picking his strongest team available, but Paul Scholes could be due for a rest up against opponents they traditionally have a good record against at Old Trafford.

Fulham confirmed earlier in the week that the only unavailable players for the trip to Old Trafford would be Orlando Sa, Zdenek Grygera and Steve Sidwell. In recent weeks they have been playing a more attacking formation, with Dembele dropping deep and both Pavel Pogrebnyak and Andrew Johnson up front.

But up against the champions at Old Trafford, expect a more imposing central midfield of Danny Murphy and Mahamadou Diarra, with Dembele in an attacking role.

Chelsea lead the race to sign Napoli's Edinson Cavani - report

Blues owner Roman Abramovich appears to have sanctioned a £30 million deal for the Uruguayan striker, as they lead the chase for his signature ahead of Liverpool and Real Madrid

Chelsea look to be leading the race to sign the hottest striker in Europe at the moment, Edinson Cavani, according to The Sun on Sunday.

The Napoli striker’s agents were believed to be in London on Friday discussing a proposed €35 million (£30m) transfer to Stamford Bridge, which would appear to have been sanctioned by Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich.

Cavani first came to the attention of top clubs during the 2010 World Cup with Uruguay, and since then his reputation has soared as he took his goal tally to 26 goals for the season at the weekend.

The Italian outfit have maintained their stance that it would take a huge amount of money to prise him away from them, but sources say he could be tempted by a big money move to England.

Another side who have been watching the striker’s progress are Liverpool. They are losing patience with Andy Carroll and will look to offload him in order to finance a deal for Cavani, so they can partner him with his international compatriot Luis Suarez.

Teams from across Europe, including Real Madrid, Inter and Bayern Munich, have also shown a keen interest in the hitman.

Ribery: Marseille will be tough opponents for Bayern

The winger, who has been capped 57 times by France, enjoyed two seasons at the Stade Velodrome and believes his former side will be difficult to beat later this week

Franck Ribery has admitted that former club Marseille will prove to be tough opponents when Bayern Munich meet the French giants on Wednesday in the first leg quarter-final Champions League encounter.

Bayern are widely expected to progress to the last four at the expense of the struggling Ligue 1 outfit, but Ribery does not believe in the concept of favourites in Europe's premier cup competition.

"This is the Champions League, it is a different situation. And this is a good team [Marseille]. This will be a tough game," Ribery told Goal.com during a press conference on Saturday.

The France international departed the Stade Velodrome five years ago and will return to his old stomping ground later this week for the first time with Bayern.

Ribery is looking forward to going back to Marseille yet is adamant that he made the right decision in leaving for Munich in the summer of 2007.
Indeed, when asked if he still has some affection for his former employers, the winger replied: "Of course, I played two years at Marseille, but I'm very happy here at Bayern."

Ribery also pointed out that Bayern showed some signs of fatigue in their 2-1 victory over Hannover on Saturday, after their midweek DFP-Pokal win over Borussia Monchengladbach.

"The team is of course a little tired," he conceded. "After the cup game, though, this is normal."

Bayern's first-leg clash with Marseille at the Stade Velodrome kicks off at 20:45CET.

Zidane spotted on Real Madrid bench against Real Sociedad and admits: I want to be a coach

The former France great is currently the Blancos' director of football but has confessed he is looking to make the move into management some time in the future

Zinedine Zidane was spotted in the Real Madrid dugout during his side's 5-1 La Liga win over Real Sociedad on Saturday and has admitted he fancies becoming a coach in future.

Despite enjoying his role of sporting director with the Blancos, a position he has held since last year following the departure of Jorge Valdano, the former France great admits he is keen to follow in the footsteps of Madrid boss Jose Mourinho one day.

"Sooner or later I hope to move into coaching," Zidane told Radio France in an interview.

"But I have still a long time ahead of me. I am not overwhelmed by the thought of it, and I am in no hurry to get into it.

"For now I am focused on learning, which is what I need to evolve."

Zidane also gave his take on France's chances of experiencing success in the forthcoming European Championships, and is optimistic Les Bleus can make an impact this summer.

"There is a bit of everything in the squad, especially the presence of a great coach [in Laurent Blanc], who is very important. In addition, there are quality players like [Franck] Ribery and [Karim] Benzema.

"It's a team that has not yet peaked, but hopes to do so in the Euros," he concluded.

Zidane sat alongside Aitor Karanka on the Madrid bench as Mourinho missed the 5-1 win over Sociedad through suspension.

Messi breaks Ronaldo's Barcelona record for most Liga goals in a season

The Argentine continues to rewrite the club's history books as his strike on Saturday means he has now beaten the Brazil legend's record of 34 goals during the 1996-97 campaign

Lionel Messi has become the highest-scoring Barcelona player in a single Primera Division season after he found the back of the net in the 2-0 win over Mallorca on Saturday.

The Argentine's first-half strike against the islanders means he has now scored 35 times in the league this term, overtaking Ronaldo's previous high of 34 during the 1996-97 campaign for the Blaugrana.

Messi equalled Ronaldo's overall mark in 2009-10, and last season scored 53 goals in all competitions, surpassing the Brazilian's haul of 47 in the process.

The 24-year-old is now on course to beat Real Madrid attacker Cristiano Ronaldo's return of 40 goals last term, currently the highest by any player in a Liga campaign.

It has been a year to remember for Messi, who also became Barcelona's leading scorer of all time earlier this week and the first-ever player to score five goals in one Champions League match as he netted a quintuple against Bayer Leverkusen recently.

Real Madrid 5-1 Real Sociedad: Cristiano Ronaldo nets 100th La Liga goal for Los Blancos

The Portuguese sensation recorded the quickest top-flight century in the club's history as they avoided dropping points for the third Primera Division game in a row

Cristiano Ronaldo scored his 100th and 101st Primera Division goals for Real Madrid as they dismantled Real Sociedad 5-1 at the Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday.

The Portuguese's first arrived just after half an hour and it gave him a century of goals in the Spanish top flight after only 92 games, making him the fastest player to reach that milestone in the capital outfit's history.

Gonzalo Higuain's early opener and a double from Karim Benzema completed the rout for the home side, who, after drawing their last two league games, picked up a crucial three points to maintain a six-point gap over Barcelona. Xabi Prieto's strike minutes before half-time was nothing more than consolation for the visitors.

The absence of Jose Mourinho, suspended after being sent to the stands against Villarreal in midweek, did not faze Madrid as they broke the deadlock after only six minutes. Benzema strode in down the right flank and teed up Higuain for a sweeping finish from the top of the box to beat Claudio Bravo in the visitors’ goal.

The hosts, buoyed by the opener, began to push forward more in the Sociedad half in their quest for a second, with Ronaldo at the end of a pair of great chances. The Portuguese first saw a stinging effort blocked by Bravo before sending a header wide from a position where he really should have hit the target.

However, Ronaldo was not to be denied and with 33 minutes gone, he came up with the goods at the third time of asking, running on to Kaka’s through ball and placing his finish into the far corner.

The goal, his 100th in the league in 92 appearances, comfortably surpassed the long-standing club record of Hungarian Ferenc Puskas, who reached the landmark tally in 115 games.

It was one way traffic thereafter, and Benzema struck five minutes before the break to make it 3-0, latching on to a superb long ball from Xabi Alonso and cushioning it down with his chest before lobbing the on-rushing Bravo.

However, Sociedad pulled a goal back almost immediately with a long-range strike from the left by Xabi Prieto that nicked off the head of Sergio Ramos en route to the far corner.

It proved to be nothing more than a consolation, however, as within four minutes of the restart, Benzema took Sami Khedira’s pass into his stride before slotting into the corner to restore the hosts’ three-goal advantage.

In the 56th minute, Madrid made it 5-1. Higuain did the hard work, sprinting in from out wide and squaring to Ronaldo at the far post, who made no mistake to score his 35th league goal of the season, bringing him level with Lionel Messi in the race for the Pichichi trophy.

The visitors were floored at this point, and spent the rest of the match playing for the final whistle as Madrid continued to control the game. They went close again in the 78th minute, with Ronaldo picking out Fabio Coentrao in the area for a toe poke that flew inches wide.

With the game nearing its conclusion, Higuain let fly with a powerful drive that Bravo did well to tip over, before Raphael Varane’s header from the resulting corner was cleared off the line as Los Blancos ran out comfortable winners.

Madrid re-open their six-point lead over Barcelona at the summit of La Liga and in the process, avoided dropping points for the third league game in a row. Mourinho's men now travel to Cyprus to take on APOEL on Tuesday in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals.

Messi and Pique on target as 10-man Catalans keep up pressure on Real Madrid

Pep Guardiola's reign notched its 600th goal as the Blaugrana continue their resurgent title charge despite Thiago's sending off early in the second half

Barcelona's 50th competitive match of the season saw them secure a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Mallorca at the Iberostar Stadium on Saturday, despite playing much of the second half with 10 men.

Lionel Messi's curling free kick appeared to be diverted into the corner by Alexis Sanchez at the far post, but was awarded to the Argentine as Barca went in front midway through the first half.

Pep Guardiola's side missed the opportunity to double their advantage on a number of occasions after that and, following Thiago's sending off on the hour mark, were left sweating as the home side threateted. But they dug deep and Gerard Pique struck 10 minutes from time to make certain a vital three points in their pursuit of Real Madrid at the top of La Liga.

After a frantic start, Barcelona began to dominate the islanders and a defensive error allowed Messi a sight of goal. The Argentine did well to escape the attention of Nunes but Dudu Aoute got his face in the way of the 24-year-old's fierce drive.

Mallorca responded with the Catalans' best opportunity of the first half. A flowing move on the touchline saw Alvaro Gimenez combine well with Victor before the latter crossed for his strike partner, but Gimenez's flicked header dropped beyond the far post.

The home side fell behind in unfortunate circumstances after 25 minutes. Messi whipped in a devilish free kick that dropped inside the six-yard box before drifting onto the inside of the far post and rustling the back of the net without any subsequent touches, although Alexis Sanchez appeared to have guided it over the line.

In a dominant spell for the Blaugrana, Mallorca were fortunate to escape falling further behind when Thiago's bullish tackle had seen the ball break to Alexis. The Chilean's deflected shot hit the underside of the bar before Chico headed to safety ahead of the lurking Cesc Fabregas.

Joaquin Caparros' side started the second half on the front foot and the coach responded by introducing Tomer Hemed and Emilio Nsue to the action. And Mallorca's chances increased following Thiago's sending off after the referee harshly punished the midfielder for handball. The resulting free kick saw the islanders come close as Hemed rose highest to meet the delivery but Victor Valdes did well to make an important save.

Guardiola reacted to Thiago's red card by bringing on Martin Montoya and Seydou Keita in an attempt to stem the attacking threat. Despite this, Mallorca were able to assert themselves on the game, although they still struggled to create any clear chances.

And with 10 minutes remaining Barcelona secured all three points when Pique reacted quickest. Messi combined with Puyol before the former crashed a low drive against the upright, and there was the former Manchester United man to turn in the rebound.

Chances came late on for both sides but neither were able to convert them into goals as Barca prepared for their Champions League tie against AC Milan with a vital victory in their pursuit of a fourth straight Liga title.

Manchester United's Park Ji-Sung declines South Korean 2012 London Olympics invitation

The 31-year-old midfielder retired from national team duties after the 2011 Asian Cup but had been offered the chance to be one of his nation's three 'over-age' players in London

Manchester United's former South Korea international Park Ji-Sung has declined an invitation to be part of the Taeguk Warriors' 2012 London Olympics squad claiming he wants to focus on club duties.

The 31-year-old midfielder, who retired from the Korean national team after the 2011 Asian Cup, had been offered the chance to be one of the Olympic team's three 'over-age' players  in London.

However, Park told Hungarian Nemzeti Sport that his international career was over and he preferred to focus on club duties, including helping Manchester United clinch this season's Premier League title.

"I was called but I had to say no. I know how it is like at the Olympics because I was involved in Sydney," Park said.

"I have also played in three World Cup finals and my best memory was the tournament in Japan and South Korea in 2002. Few could have thought that we could get to the semi-finals.

"I have 100 caps, but this period of my life is over for me. I want to concentrate on my club from now on.

"This is my seventh year at Old Trafford. I won four titles but I want to win the Premier League this year more than ever."

According to The Chosun Ilbo, Taeguk Warriors coach Hong Myung-Bo wants to use one of his 'over-age' allocation for a midfielder, with Park his first choice.

Korea secured their place at the 2012 London Olympics after finishing top of Group A through Asian qualifying.

Pepe handed two-match ban while Ozil and Mourinho receive one-game suspensions

The Portuguese defender will not be able to take part in the club's next two Primera Division matches after confronting the referee in the wake of the midweek draw at El Madrigal

The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has announced that Real Madrid defender Pepe has been handed a two-match ban for verbally abusing the referee in Wednesday's 1-1 draw against Villarreal.

Pepe vented his frustration at the refereeing decisions in the tunnel, with match official Jose Luis Paradas Romero mentioning the incident in his report.

The RFEF decided that the defender's outburst fell into the category of 'acts of scorn or lack of consideration towards referees, club officials or sporting authorities'.

Mesut Ozil will have to serve a one-game ban after being sent off during the match, while Sergio Ramos' red card has been withdrawn as the referee's account of the action which earned the defender his first yellow card was imprecise.

Jose Mourinho will be unable to oversee Madrid's match against Real Sociedad after being hit with a one-game ban, whereas fitness coach Rui Faria will not sit on the bench for the next two encounters as this was the fourth time that he has been sent to the stands in the last four months.

Real Madrid announce plans to construct $1 billion island resort

Real Madrid have announced ambitious plans to construct a spectacular $1 billion island resort in the United Arab Emirates.

Strategically located within four hours of around two billion of the world's population, the resort is an hour's drive away from one of the busiest sections of the planet, with 50 million people travelling through the area each year.

The project, called Real Madrid Resort Island, will boast a host of features, such as 60 luxury bungalows, a 450-room five-star hotel, a marina, complete with a yacht club, and a theme park.

The project will also house groundbreaking technology, including the first-ever stadium with one side open to the sea, and a holographic football show.

With a date of completion set for January 2015, this will strengthen Los Blancos' position in Asia in time for the 2022 Fifa World Cup, which will be held in nearby Qatar.

Real Madrid maintain media silence ahead of Real Sociedad clash

Los Blancos will not address the press in the build-up to this weekend's match and will train away from the glare of cameras on Friday afternoon

Real Madrid have refused to hold a pre-match press conference ahead of Saturday's Primera Division contest against Real Sociedad in protest against recent refereeing decisions.

Apart from Marcelo, no player from Madrid has addressed the media following the 1-1 draw against Villarreal on Wednesday, in which Los Blancos were very critical of the standard of refereeing.

Sergio Ramos and Mesut Ozil saw red at El Madrigal, while Jose Mourinho and fitness coach Rui Faria were sent to the stands during the match.

Madrid will hold one last training session before this weekend's match on Friday, but cameras will not be allowed as the team will practice behind closed doors.

The Santiago Bernabeu outfit will be looking to end a two-match winless streak, which has seen Barcelona close the gap at the top of the Liga table to six points.

Suarez is going nowhere

Following a controversial season speculation was rife over an impending departure for the striker, but the Anfield club board member has moved to dispel any rumours

Liverpool managing director Ian Ayre has insisted that the “popular” Luis Suarez will not be leaving the club.

The Uruguay international has had a tumultuous season after being found guilty of racially abusing Manchester United’s Patrice Evra, resulting in speculation that the striker was looking to leave England.

Ligue 1 side Paris Saint-Germain are rumoured to be interested in acquiring Suarez’s services, but Ayre has disregarded all reports of an impending departure.

"Listen, he's got a contract until 2016. He has said he wants to stay. I am sure [director of football] Damien [Comolli] will be speaking to his agent”, Ayre told reporters.

"Who wouldn't want Luis Suarez? He is absolutely fantastic. He is such a popular member of our team.

"But they are the things we talk about behind closed doors, and we will further that discussion when it is right and proper.

"Luis is a vital and important part of our set-up, and long may that continue."

AC Milan's Galliani still 'in love' with Tevez

The Rossoneri tried to sign the Argentina international in January butdespite the player's willingness to come to San Siro, an agreement was never reached with his club

AC Milan CEO Adriano Galliani has admitted that he remains enamoured with Carlos Tevez and views the Manchester City striker as the one that got away.

The Rossoneri did their utmost to land the Argentina international during the January transfer window but they were unable to agree a deal with the Premier League outfit.

Galliani is still bitterly disappointed that the proposed transfer did not come off, citing the player's decisive contribution in Manchester City's crucial 2-1 victory over Chelsea at Eastlands on Wednesday night as proof of his enduring class.

"He's like this," the Italian told reporters on Thursday. "We're talking about a great player; one who can make a difference.

"I'm crazy for Carlitos. It took him only a few minutes to decide a game that could be the turning point of the season for City.

"I'm in love with him. He is a fantastic player. Fate, however, did not want him with us. And some trains do not pass by a second time."

However, Galliani is taking great consolation out of the fact that Antonio Cassano, who underwent emergency heart surgery last November, is nearing a return to first-team action.

"All the feedback is positive; the tests are good," he enthused. "Now we just have to wait, but I'm very optimistic."

Galliani also took time out to dismiss reports that he has held talks with former Rossoneri forward Marco van Basten about replacing Massimiliano Allegri as coach.

"I have never spoken about this with Van Basten," he stated. "Allegri's doing very well and has just renewed for another two years.

"Allegri will remain as Milan coach for many more seasons. At the moment, the last thing we want to do is change the coach."

Milan are currently top of Serie A and will be looking to extend their advantage when they host Roma at San Siro on Saturday night.

Liverpool did not have the cash to sign Dani Alves and Jovetic

The Spanish coach, who led the Reds to a surprise Champions League success in 2005, has claimed that he was not given the money to bring either player to Anfield

Rafa Benitez has claimed that Liverpool were unable to back him financially when he tried to sign Dani Alves and Stevan Jovetic during his time at the helm of the Reds.

The Spaniard, who led the English outfit to Champions League glory in 2005, departed Anfield in the summer of 2010 after a disappointing seventh-placed finish in the Premier League.

According to Benitez, though, things could have been very different had he been given the cash to bring in Dani Alves before the right-back's 2008 move to Barcelona.

"Daniel Alves was our first option on the right side," the Spaniard explained in an interview with Sports Illustrated.

"The problem that we had was that I had to decide to bring Alves as a winger when he was an offensive full-back.

"It was a difficult decision as we had money at the time for only just one striker or a winger/full-back.

"We signed a striker - the striker was [Dirk] Kuyt, who to be fair has turned out to be a fantastic contributor to the club."

Benitez also alleges that he was not given the necessary funds to persuade Fiorentina to part company with Jovetic in 2009.

"Jovetic was our target but we didn't have the money," the former Valencia boss claimed.

"My idea was to play [Javier] Mascherano, Lucas, [Steven] Gerrard, [Alberto] Aquilani - two of these four players in the middle and Jovetic between the lines, but we didn't have the money."

Benitez has been out of the game since parting company with Inter at the tail end of 2010.

Amazing Goal by Cristiano Ronaldo vs Villareal March 21, 2012

Amazing goal by Amazing Goal by Cristiano Ronaldo vs Villareal

Manchester City vs Chelsea 2-1 Highlights

Manchester City vs Chelsea 2-1 Highlights 

March 22, 2012 1:15 AM IST
Etihad Stadium — Manchester

 Goal Moment: 

Cahill (60), Aguero (78), and Nasri (86)

Everton vs Tottenham Hotspur: News and Facts

David Moyes still rely on 4-4-1-1 formation. He wished Everton can get three points. Tim Cahill is in a post right behind Denis Stracqualursi.

Leon Osman will play at right-wing, while Royston Drenthe will occupy left-wing post. Players on loan from Tottenham, Steven Pienaar, he still can't play at this game. Defense line will be manned by a duet between John Heitinga and Sylvain Distin. The good news is Phil Jagielka has declared ready for this match but he might sit on the bench. Right-back will be occupied by Tony Hibbert while left-back will be occupied by Leighton Baines.

At match against Everton, Harry Redknapp will miss Michael Dawson. He is injured and sidelined until end of season. Tottenham's line defense is quite fragile and they have experienced 9 conceded in 3 games.

Match against Everton could be evidence for Louis Saha. He ever played for Everton before moving to Spurs and Saha has recovered from injury. It's good news after Spurs lost mainstay players such as Tom Huddlestone, David Bentley, Jermaine Jenas and Aaron Lennon.

On striker post, Redknapp expects a lot of Emmanuel Adebayor. He is likely becomes top choice despite in the FA Cup match yesterday Jermain Defoe played very well.

Everton v Tottenham Hotspur Facts

In Premier league history, Spurs has managed to beat Everton as much as 19 times.

In 19 games at Everton's home, Tottenham suffered only three defeats.

In Premier league history, Everton is a team that has highest percentage (70%) to score in the second half.

Spurs managed to score a goal on 15 minutes in the first half.

In this season, Everton is the team that succeeded in preventing shots on target and has the least amount.

Sunderland vs Liverpool Live Stream Free Online

News

Two Sunderland players, Lee Cattermole and Stephane Sessegnon, they can't be play because ban and manager Martin O'Neill will lose them against Liverpool.

In the last week match against Newcastle, two players get red cards and they are: Lee Cattermole and Stephane Sessegnon. These two players did hard offense against the Magpies players.

Full-back post, Kieran Richardson is still doubtful. This could be an opportunity for Wayne Bridge. Central defender will be occupied by Sotirios Kyrgiakos and John O'Shea. These two players can play despite just recovering from injury. Meanwhile, Keiren Westwood is still doubtful due to injury problems.

Liverpool has two important players can be played on this game, Steven Gerrard and Glen Johnson. These two players are expected in good shape after not participating against Arsenal last week.

For this match, Liverpool is still hopes Jamie Carragher roles to keep the defensive line. Daniel Agger is still troubled by injury.

Match facts:

In the last 11 meetings in the league, Sunderland has won just once and Liverpool has won almost all the victories.

In a match held at Stadium of Light, Liverpool could reach four wins from five matches.

Sunderland has a good record when playing at home. They only had one defeat and that happen when playing against Arsenal.

Liverpool is the team with lowest conversion to score goals this season.

Chelsea vs Stoke City Live Stream Free Online

News

Premier League match against Chelsea which will be held at Stamford Bridge, Stoke’s defender Andy Wilkinson remains doubtful because injury problem.

When get 1-0 win against Norwich last week, Andy Wilkinson was replaced by Jermaine Pennant after he got hamstring injury. In the game against Chelsea, Stoke City left winger, Jermaine Pennant, he is rumored can be played despite sanctions from the club for two games.

Player who will miss the match against Chelsea for this week is Rory Delap. He also didn't play against Norwich last week. Rory suffered a hamstring injury forced him only to see his friends on TV.

Match facts Chelsea vs Stoke City

In nine games against Stoke City in all competitions, Chelsea won seven victories and never suffered defeat.

In the last seven Premier League matches, Chelsea only gets one defeat. They managed to make 4 wins and 2 draws.

In the history of Premier League and start from February 2011, Chelsea had scored in every game at home.

In the last 23 games are carried on away games, Stoke only got four victories.

In premier league, Stoke have never get a draw score while playing at London.

Stoke are the team with the highest proportion who had scored with a header (37%).

Chelsea is a team who has conceded at least from goal created from outside the area.

Stoke have the worst record in this season and they only had a record 19 shots on target from outside the box.

Chelsea has conceded 19 goals in 13 matches if playing at home. They can break their own record just like in the 1991-92.

In the last 12 Premier League matches, Chelsea won only three victories.

Manchester United vs Athletic Bilbao: Match Fact, Live Stream and Highlights

In a match that will come, Man United can be relieved to bring down Chris Smalling. He is able to occupy defender place after suffering an injury for England against Holland.

Some midfielders are expected to be recovered soon. Anderson is likely to play after injuring more than two months. Tom Cleverley and Antonio Valencia are expected to play this week, but they are still in doubt. Valencia also can be played but predicted only for the second leg.

Marcelo Bielsa still confusion because lose some important players and this is a catastrophe for the first leg held Man United's home. Bielsa is going to lose Aitor Ocio, Carlos Gurpegi and Xabi Castillo.

Ander Iturraspe is expected to appear even though chances are he will sit on the bench. His presence is expected after not played in the derby against Real Sociedad.

Did you know?

Man United had a poor record this season and they could only get win one time in four games at home. That happens when dealing with Otelul Galati, Wayne Rooney and Antonio Valencia. They managed to score one goal.

Wayne Rooney is the top score for European competition in this season. He has scored three goals for all European competition.

Bilbao is quite impressive this season. They are on fifth place but falls behind from the second place, Barcelona. Bilbao only has a gap between 10 points from Villarreal which place at 17th place.

Fernando Llorente is top scoring for the club this season but only scored two goals for European competition.

Both clubs had competed in 1957 and Man United became the winner. The match was conducted at Maine Road Stadium.

Valencia vs PSV Live Stream Free Online

This match can be proof for PSV Eindhoven after suffering humiliating defeat last week at Dutch League. Valencia won't able to bring down their best players, Ever Banega, Sergio Canales and Hedwiges Maduro. All three players are still troubled by a long injury.

The game against PSV, right-back Miguel may not be to play because of an injury against Barcelona last month. Right-back place will be taken by Bruno.

PSV couldn't be strengthened by their defender, Erik Pieters. He is still troubled by a foot injury that forced him to rest about 4 months. Defender place will be occupied by JETRO Willems. He certainly can play full after only become a substitute in a friendly match with Dutch national team. PSV didn't lose many players due to injury.

Did you know?

Valencia enters into the next round after beating Stoke City. This could be a proving ground for Valencia after lose their place at Champions League this season.

Last week, Valencia managed to keep the victory over Granada and was achieved when playing at home.

The two teams have met in Champions League. When they only got draw score and one win for Valencia.

PSV suffered a humiliating defeat last week at Dutch league. They had to lose their dignity to Twente after being defeated by a score 6-2.

Both teams have competed in a friendly match. Valencia managed to win by a score 2-0.

Both teams have won UEFA Cup. Valencia won this trophy in 2004 meanwhile PSV got their last cup in 1978.

Sporting vs Man City: Live Stream, Match Fact, and Highlights

In a match that will come, Sporting lost some important players. They will be without Ricky van Wolfswinkel. Striker and top scorer in this season is still troubled by injury and replaced by Uruguayan striker Sebastian Ribas. Elias couldn't play for European competitions and the same is experienced by Alberto Rodriguez and Fito Rinaudo. Those players are still troubled by injury.

Midfield will be filled by players such as Matias Fernandez and André Carillo. Xandao will work with Oguchi Onyewu to keep the defense lines from attack Man City. Right-back is likely to be occupied by Santiago Arias. He often became regular team in recent games and seems he will replace Joao Pereira.

Meanwhile Man City is ready for full force. David Silva and Sergio Aguero in a fit condition after not played in the match against Bolton at the Premier League last week. So also with Edin Dzeko and James Milner, although they came down in the second half against Bolton, it confirmed on Thursday match, they had recovered and ready.

There are two players who will miss, Micah Richards and Yaya Toure. Kolo Toure will occupy the place as the right-back meanwhile Pablo Zabaleta will replace the place left by Yaya Toure.

Match Facts

Sporting had just suffered their first defeat after winning three straight wins. This is a first for their new coach, Ricardo Sa Pinto.

Sporting have won Winner Cup in 1964 and was runner-up in 2005 UEFA Cup after losing to CSKA Moscow.

Both teams have never competed in official competition, but Sporting won 2-0 against Man City in a friendly match.

Man City is a team that has the most and conceded goals for this season.

Man City has won Winner Cup in 1970.

Tottenham Hotspur vs Manchester United Live Stream Free Online

Harry Redknapp hopes Gareth Bale could be played in a game against Red Devils. Harry hopes players like Kyle Walker, Rafael van der Vaart and Ledley King soon recovered, they could become a mainstay for the squad. They are going to miss some important players and might be a problem must be overcome by Harry Redknapp. For this match, he lost Scott Parker, William Gallas and Tom Huddlestone.

Red Devils gets encouraging news because Wayne Rooney has recovered from throat infection that happened a few days ago. Even so, Chris Smalling likely misses the game against Tottenham, as well as Tom Cleverley and Antonio Valencia. Two last names are still injured and need several weeks to recover. Good news, Michael Owen back to training after an injury nearly 3 months.

Interesting facts match:

In Premier League history, Tottenham had 99 matches with draw scores and it happened at their home, White Hart Lane.

Tottenham included as one team with the lowest percentage to scoring with header.

Manchester United's record set have been beaten by Norwich to make goal with header.

Tottenham is one team that can score more goals in 15 minutes in the first half.

The Red Devils included as one of two teams who have conceded in 15 minutes in the first half.

Manchester United needs a victory to keep a chances get the first place.

Man United including as the best team that able to convert goals from opportunities created.

Tottenham always failed to win from 21 league games. They lost against Man United and only get 5 times draws.

In the last 20 games against Man United in Premier League, Tottenham failed to score their 13rd goals.

Fulham vs Wolverhampton Live Stream Free Online

This match could be a debut for Mahamadou Diarra. The midfielder who ever played for Real Madrid has agreed to play with Fulham until end of season. Fulham manager, Martin Jol, he has confirmed and Diarra have become part of squad. Stephen Kelly, Zdenek Grygera and Steve Sidwell still get a problem with injures, they are doubt for this match. Dickson Etuhu isn't possible to play due to exhaustion after an international match.

Ahead game against Fulham, Terry Connor can breathe with relief because top score for the club, Steven Fletcher, he is ready to play. He will be paired with Kevin Doyle to destroy Fulham defense. For the upcoming match, Wayne Hennessey and Dave Edwards are expected recovered after a match to commemorate Gary Speed.

Match facts:

Wolves have 10% from their total goal which is created with a header and it's very low percentage.

Wolves need a lot of points to get a better place and safe from relegation zone.

Wolves include as a team with a low percentage to make goals from long distance. They scored only once on a long distance against Newcastle and was scored by Matt Jarvis.

Wolves, team who have conceded the most goals that happen from long distance.

Wolves include as the first team to score a goal on 15 minutes during first half for premier league this season.

Since May 2008, Fulham have never experienced winning three times in a row.

In the last 7 games at Craven Cottage stadium, Fulham managed to reach 5 wins, 1 defeats and 1 draw.

Newcastle United vs Sunderland Live Stream Free Online

Papiss Cisse is expected to recover before the match and he didn't go to Senegal squad due to injury in his groin. But he has begun to join training with the team and ready for this week as well as Cheick Tiote already get enough rest off after an international match with Ivory Coast. This match, Newcastle will miss Shola Ameobi, a pretty sharp striker when dealing with Sunderland. There are several players who missed such as Steven Taylor, Sammy Ameobi and Sylvain Marveaux.

 

The game against Newcastle isn't easy for Sunderland. Martin O'Neill has little doubt misses Stephane Sessegnon for the next game. He still looked tired because flight delayed. Sebastian Larsson is expected ready against Newcastle, he already showed his class when scoring two goals at international match with Sweden. Nicklas Bendtner is also expected to play while Phil Bardsley and Keiren Westwood doubtful to play in this game.

Some facts match:

Sunderland is a team with the most conceded with a header in premier league.

In their last 23 games against Newcastle, Sunderland failed to secure goal from attacks launched by Newcastle.

In their last 3 games against Newcastle at Premier League, Sunderland player is given a red card in two different games.

In the last 14 games against Sunderland at Premier League, Newcastle has a good record. They get 8 wins, 5 draws and one defeat.

In this season, Newcastle have had conceded as much as 8 times from penalty, while Sunderland haven't scored any goal from penalty.

Newcastle have had conceded as much as 6 times and all that happens from a free kick.

Since April 2011, the black cats have never lost three times in a row.

West Bromwich vs Chelsea Live Stream Free Online March 3, 2012

There are some interesting facts matches ahead between West Brom v Chelsea at Hawthorns stadium and interesting to see.

In all competitions, Chelsea managed to reach 18 wins from 20 matches and never lost even when dealing against West Brom.

In 11 premier league matches, Chelsea always steals all the victory from West Brom.

Didier Drogba is a fertile striker when faced against West Brom. He has scored eight goals in eight Premier League matches.

Drogba has scored 99 goals for premier league and will probably continue.

West Brom scored only 4 goals when playing against Chelsea. Four goals were created for 11 league matches Premier against the blues.

This season record is really bad for Chelsea, team only able to reach three wins in 11 Premier League matches. They were only able to reach 6 draws and 2 defeats.

Interesting note about West Brom, they were only able to make three consecutive victories and occurred in September 2002 in Premier League.

This season could be a special moment for Frank Lampard. If he had scored during a match against Bolton, he is the sixth player who scored over 150 goals record in premier league history.

West Brom have a good record this season, they rarely concede from set pieces and can score goals at 15 minute of the first half.

Manchester City vs Bolton Live Stream Free Online March 3, 2012

There are some interesting facts about premier league match between Manchester City and Bolton Wanderers that will be held at Etihad Stadium.

In 10 games against Bolton Wanderers, Manchester City suffered only one defeat. The match was won six times by The Citizen and three times with draw score.

Bolton Wanderers striker, Ivan Klasnic, he has scored three goals against Man City in the last four games.

Man City striker, Carlos Tevez, he has scored four goals to Bolton's net the last five games.

Edin Dzeko is Man City striker who scored two goals in two games against Bolton.

Bolton is in a pretty vulnerable place and need a victory to reach safety position.

The interesting thing to note is Man City are the only team that has conceded in the second half, this is a pretty weird record in the premier league this season.

Based on the last meeting at Reebok stadium, Bolton can do high conversion goals. Three shots on goal are successfully utilized by scoring two goals.

The Citizen has a pretty good record and a chance to beat Man United. Man City managed to get wins from 18 league games at home.

Bolton had failed to score three goals in their last four games. That's not a good record.

Liverpool vs Arsenal Live Stream Free Online March 3, 2012

There are some important facts about Liverpool and Arsenal. Their match will be held at Anfield Stadium.

Liverpool and Arsenal having matches record which always ended in a draw as many as 6 times out of 9 meetings.

Record of a meeting between those two teams are very interesting, based on the record, there are six goals occur in the minute of 90, this occurred during the six matches between Liverpool and Arsenal.

In previous meetings, there are three goal ever created and two goals came from penalties. This record happened in the last five matches between Arsenal and Liverpool.

In the last three meetings, there are three red cards given by the referee for the matches between Liverpool and Arsenal.

If this week, Arsenal managed to avoid defeat, then it could be a record for successfully to avoid defeat five times in a row at Anfield stadium.

Liverpool gained victory at Arsenal home in August last year and become a winning record after 8 games that always ended in a draw.

In this season, Liverpool has done home game with a pretty poor record during Premier League.

Liverpool is still one of two teams that held unbeaten record when playing at home. From 12 games carried out at Anfield, Liverpool only get 8 draws and 4 wins.

Arsenal has recorded victories without conceding three times from 20 times to play outside their cage.
Liverpool is considered as the worst team couldn't convert chances into goals.