ESPN FC's Steve Nicol reacts to Marouane Fellaini's continued fine form for both club and country, while Craig Burley is not surprised with his success. http://ift.tt/1F0fV2K
Tuesday, March 31, 2015
Nicol: Sterling isn't a finished article yet
ESPN FC's Steve Nicol explains that if Raheem Sterling can make all the money in the world if he continues to improve, following reports that he's rejected a new deal with Liverpool. http://ift.tt/1bOqWwT
Nicol: Sterling isn't a finished article yet
ESPN FC's Steve Nicol explains that if Raheem Sterling can make all the money in the world if he continues to improve, following reports that he's rejected a new deal with Liverpool. http://ift.tt/1bOqX44
Dyche confident at avoiding relegation
Burnley manager Sean Dyche previews his side's clash with Tottenahm at Turf Moor, and assesses their chances of avoiding relegation this season. http://ift.tt/1NFzoMt
Eden Hazard should win Player of the Year awards by a landslide
The ESPN FC crew react to Chelsea forward Eden Hazard's latest comments about his side's elimination from the UEFA Champions League. Now that the flowers are starting to bloom and leaves returning to the trees, it is almost time for the big prizes to be handed out. One has already been allocated, of course, with the Capital One Cup now residing at Stamford Bridge but the Premier League and FA Cup are still being pursued. Although another visit to Wembley is out of the question this campaign, there is a significant chance that the title might also be returning to West London. The other accolades still in the offing are the individual... http://ift.tt/1D9rGakRummenigge: Clubs shouldn't fear 'big money'
Bayern Munich chief executive officer Karl-Heinz Rumenigge said the Premier League's new mammoth TV deal isn't necessarily bad news for other big clubs in Europe. http://ift.tt/19z9MC8
Victor Valdes: Joining Manchester United was right option for my career
On-loan Manchester United striker Radamel Falcao has played down talk of a move to Juventus, as speculation about an imminent exit from Old Trafford continues to grow. Victor Valdes says he made the right decision in joining Manchester United, despite having yet to make an appearance for the club. Valdes, 33, signed for United in January, having impressed Louis van Gaal -- who he played for at Barcelona -- during a 10-week training spell arranged to help him continue his rehabilitation from a cruciate knee ligament injury. The goalkeeper, however, has still yet to make his debut for the club, with the performances of Spanish compatriot David De Gea keeping him... http://ift.tt/1xTH7DgMichallik: Liverpool need to keep pace with United
ESPN FC's Shaka Hislop and Janusz Michallik preview the big match in the Premier League this weekend between Arsenal and Liverpool and if this is a must-win for Brendan Rodgers' men. http://ift.tt/1BIAsXI
Hislop: Sterling not going anywhere
ESPN FC's Shaka Hislop and Janusz Michallik give their thoughts on Raheem Sterling's ongoing contract negotiations. http://ift.tt/1Ctbcbd
Mignolet has excelled for Liverpool but a new GK backup is needed
Arsenal legend Thierry Henry played a charity match at Anfield with Steven Gerrard's all-star cast against Jamie Carragher's XI. ESPN FC's Tommy Smyth and Ross Dyer weigh in on the impact that Daniel Sturridge's latest injury will have on Liverpool and their top four hopes. At the end of 2014 ESPN FC asked its club bloggers to answer some questions on their team's needs going into the transfer window. Liverpool were in dire straits back then and looked like they needed strengthening all over the park, but I listed the two main priorities as goalkeeper and striker. Three months on, the continuing injury woes of Daniel Sturridge and lack of production from any of the other forwards show that Liverpool really could have benefitted from signing a new striker, but not bringing... http://ift.tt/19xPAR0Swansea's Lukasz Fabianski ignoring Roma link, happy in Premier League
Lukasz Fabianski joined Swansea from Arsenal last July. Swansea goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski insists he wants to carry on playing in the Premier League despite being linked to Italian giants Roma. Poland international Fabianski joined Swansea from Arsenal on a free transfer last summer and has proved a fine acquisition in keeping 11 clean sheets to help the Welsh club into the top half of the league. Fabianski's fine form has apparently alerted Roma, who currently lie second in Serie A behind Juventus, but he says he is not bothered about transfer speculation... http://ift.tt/1OViuLENewcastle due £500,000 for 5-player loan deal if Rangers are promoted
Mike Ashley's Magpies side are due half a million pounds should Rangers win promotion to the Scottish Premiership. Rangers have set a target of 2022 to progress to the "very top" in an interim report which revealed they must pay Newcastle £500,000 if they are promoted this season. The Scottish Championship club have reported losses of £2.6 million for the final six months of 2014, although the accounts have not been officially audited. Previous auditor Deloitte was not replaced by the old board in a sign of what interim chairman Paul Murray described as "staggering mismanagement." The recently-appointed... http://ift.tt/1OViuLrManchester United's David De Gea: The Premier League really suits me
On-loan Manchester United striker Radamel Falcao has played down talk of a move to Juventus, as speculation about an imminent exit from Old Trafford continues to grow. The ESPN FC crew react to reports suggesting Spain international and Real Madrid captain Iker Casillas is in talks to leave the club. David De Gea believes playing in the Premier League has made him a better goalkeeper, and is relishing working with Victor Valdes at Manchester United. De Gea, 24, has been one of United's standout performers since the beginning of the 2013-14 season after a difficult start to life at Old Trafford. The Spanish keeper joined United from Atletico Madrid in 2011, and told FIFA's official website he is benefiting from having to adapt to English football. MANCHESTER UNITED LATEST - Transfer Talk: Di Maria to PSG for £60m? - Depay agent: No United talks yet - Payne: United must spend more wisely - Mitten: Carrick remains key - Patterson: United better off without Van Persie - Okwonga: Fellaini remains the man for LVG - Recap: Heroes in win at Anfield - Falcao: Goals have boosted my confidence "Truth be told, English football has changed... http://ift.tt/1BHVzJxJack Wilshere and Mathieu Debuchy close on injury comebacks for Arsenal
Jack Wilshere has made nine Premier League appearances this season. Jack Wilshere and Mathieu Debuchy both featured for an Arsenal XI on Tuesday as part of their comebacks from long-term injuries. Wilshere has not featured for the Arsenal first team since November after sustaining an ankle injury while Debuchy has been out of action since January with a shoulder problem. The duo both started in an Arsenal XI match against Brentford at London Colney on Tuesday, alongside Mikel Arteta and Abou Diaby. ARSENAL LATEST - Miller: Should Walcott leave Arsenal? - Mangan: Returns boost competition for places - Wood: Cazorla and co. out the exit door? - Toe Poke: Sanchez plays piano to John Legend - Ozil aiming to be future Ballon d'Or winner - Honigstein: Ozil partying in Berlin looks bad - Henry: Arsenal can end wait for Prem title soon The Gunners ran out 4-0 winners, with Wilshere opening the... http://ift.tt/1aeEgKpRamsey, Wilshere and Oxlade-Chamberlain in Arsenal spotlight
Arsenal announced five new contracts in December 2012 with Carl Jenkinson, Aaron Ramsey, Jack Wilshere, Kieran Gibbs and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain all signing new deals. In December 2012, Arsenal proudly announced that five players had signed new deals with the club. Carl Jenkinson, Aaron Ramsey, Jack Wilshere, Kieran Gibbs and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain sat there posing with contracts in front of them and boss Arsene Wenger standing proudly behind. It was a British core, as Wenger described it. A response, perhaps, to players born abroad who don't have the same connection with a club, making it easier for them to jump ship when things don't go the way they want or... http://ift.tt/1GICAVQTop 10 summer transfer targets for Premier League clubs
The FC team discuss whether Gareth Bale should stick it out at Real Madrid or head back to the Premier League. As Europe's league enter the final stretches of their seasons, attentions begin to turn to the summer's transfer window. With that in mind, Nick Miller looks at the window's top 10 transfer targets for Premier League clubs. 10. Alexandre Lacazette | Lyon | forward There are several areas of the Manchester United team that should require surgery in the summer, one of which is up front. Surely, Radamel Falcao's loan will not be extended or made permanent, while Robin van Persie is not the player... http://ift.tt/1Hae7qqHighly rated Liverpool youngster Ryan Kent signs long-term Anfield contract
Arsenal legend Thierry Henry played a charity match at Anfield with Steven Gerrard's all-star cast against Jamie Carragher's XI. The ESPN FC panel answer your tweets on Jose Mourinho's future with Chelsea, if Raheem Sterling will stay at Anfield and more. Liverpool youngster Ryan Kent has signed a new long-term deal to keep him at Anfield. The 18-year-old England youth international is rated very highly by both club and country, and sources confirmed to ESPN FC on Tuesday morning that the player had signed a new contract. Kent, who is a regular in the Liverpool under-21s, signed his first professional deal 18 months ago and announced via Twitter later on Tuesday that he has been rewarded for his progress. http://ift.tt/1OUObECTerry has a new Chelsea deal but are Zouma and Varane the future?
ESPN FC's Ross Dyer says John Terry re-upping for one more year is crucial pillar for Jose Mourinho to continue his pursuit of the Champions League crown. Last week's announcement that John Terry had signed a new one-year contract was welcomed by Chelsea supporters. Despite being 34 and at the veteran stage of his career, the man they refer to as "Captain, Leader, Legend" has been playing some of the best football of his career this season, featuring in every Premier League game so far. CHELSEA LATEST - Player of the Year: Hazard by a landslide - Hazard: Prem has made me better - Nalapat: Chelsea support surges in Asia - Worrall: Terry can win more trophies - Lythell: Cech exit must be handled properly - Mourinho phone call inspired Terry revival - Sources: De Bruyne keen on Chelsea return Terry has had a hugely influential role in Jose Mourinho's bid to bring the title back to Chelsea but he cannot keep playing forever. At the start of the campaign,... http://ift.tt/19wOnJKArsenal and England's Theo Walcott determined to rediscover best form
Theo Walcott has scored two Premier League goals this season. Arsenal and England forward Theo Walcott is confident he will soon be back to his best. Walcott spent 10 months on the sidelines after suffering a serious knee injury that required surgery in January 2014. He made his return to action in November but has since struggled for regular first-team action, making just three Premier League starts. Walcott is set to start for England in their friendly with Italy on Tuesday night and is hopeful of recapturing his best form. ARSENAL LATEST - Miller: Should Walcott leave Arsenal? - Mangan: Returns boost competition for places - Wood: Cazorla and co. out the exit door? - Toe Poke: Sanchez plays piano to John Legend - Ozil aiming to be future Ballon d'Or winner - Honigstein: Ozil partying in Berlin looks bad - Henry: Arsenal can end wait for Prem title soon He told the FA's official website:... http://ift.tt/1I0wul8Chris Smalling has survived at Manchester United and is set to stay
The ESPN FC crew break down Manchester United's chances of finishing in a top-four spot in the Premier League. You would have been hard pressed to find many people defending Chris Smalling after his sending off in Manchester United's 1-0 defeat to Manchester City in November. The centre-back had received the second of two inexplicably careless yellow cards and at that point his trudge from the field seemed as if it would take him all the way out of the club this summer. MANCHESTER UNITED LATEST - Transfer Talk: Di Maria to PSG for £60m? - Depay agent: No United talks yet - Payne: United must spend more wisely - Mitten: Carrick remains key - Patterson: United better off without Van Persie - Okwonga: Fellaini remains the man for LVG - Recap: Heroes in win at Anfield - Falcao: Goals have boosted my confidence But here's the thing -- Smalling is actually quite good. He is good enough to be linked with Arsenal and for some United supporters to... http://ift.tt/1Fdy2EYLiverpool won't sell Raheem Sterling despite contract wrangle - sources
The ESPN FC panel answer your tweets on Jose Mourinho's future with Chelsea, if Raheem Sterling will stay at Anfield and more. Liverpool will not consider a deal to sell Raheem Sterling this summer even if he refuses to sign a new contract, sources have told ESPN FC. Sterling, 20, is committed to stay at Anfield until 2017 and talks began in October to extend his deal until 2020. Indeed, Liverpool have offered the England winger around £100,000-a-week, a significant increase on his current salary of £35,000-a-week. However, the player -- through his agent, Aidy Ward -- is understood to have asked for closer to... http://ift.tt/1NyOmlFReal Madrid's Fabio Coentrao: Playing for Man United would be an honour
On-loan Manchester United striker Radamel Falcao has played down talk of a move to Juventus, as speculation about an imminent exit from Old Trafford continues to grow. Real Madrid left-back Fabio Coentrao says he would be very interested in a move to Manchester United next season. Coentrao, 27, joined Madrid for €30 million in 2011 and has a contract at the Bernabeu until 2019, but the defender has regularly been linked with a move away from Los Blancos during recent seasons. Jorge Mendes' client reportedly almost joined United in the summer of 2013 only for a last-minute problem with the paperwork to scupper what would have been a season-long move with... http://ift.tt/1aeaENoSpurs flying with Kane but Pochettino get summer transfer business right
Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino praised Harry Kane after scoring his first Premier League hat-trick in their 4-3 win over Leicester, but admitted his side needed to improve defensively. Tottenham may have eight games to go in the Premier League but the forward planning has already begun -- and boss Mauricio Pochettino recently confirmed he has earmarked potential summer acquisitions. This international break will have given the Spurs hierarchy some time to focus on the upcoming summer window, evaluating the current squad and identifying targets who can improve it. When the club announced their financial results on March 27, chairman Daniel Levy reiterated the plan for player recruitment. He... http://ift.tt/1DkDB5pManchester United take non-league star Sam Grimshaw on trial - sources
On-loan Manchester United striker Radamel Falcao has played down talk of a move to Juventus, as speculation about an imminent exit from Old Trafford continues to grow. Manchester United have taken non-league sensation Sam Grimshaw on trial, sources have told ESPN FC. Grimshaw, who was on the books at Manchester City for nine years as a junior, has impressed for North West Counties League side Glossop North End this season. The 21-year-old, who can play at left-back or as a left-sided winger, has caught the attention of a host of clubs higher up the football pyramid. MANCHESTER UNITED LATEST - Transfer Talk: Di Maria to PSG for £60m? - Depay agent: No United talks yet - Payne: United must spend more wisely - Mitten: Carrick remains key - Patterson: United better off without Van Persie - Okwonga: Fellaini remains the man for LVG - Recap: Heroes in win at Anfield - Falcao: Goals have boosted my confidence A number of sides have asked to take Grimshaw on trial so that they can have a look at him at close... http://ift.tt/1Fd7GD3Rooney and Van Persie: Louis van Gaal's will to win is 'incredible'
Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal hailed his side's 2-1 Premier League win at Liverpool as one of the biggest of his career, as the Old Trafford club took a big step towards securing Champions League football next season. Robin van Persie and Wayne Rooney have testified to Louis van Gaal's "incredible" will to win as his fellow Dutchman said the Manchester United manager is determined to claim every trophy available. The two strikers have been appointed captain by Van Gaal, with Van Persie skippering his Netherlands side to third place at the 2014 World Cup and Rooney being granted the United armband in August. And both are adamant that Van Gaal is a demanding character who will not countenance finishing on the losing... http://ift.tt/1CscWl8Understated Michael Carrick remains a key Manchester United player
Manchester United manager Louis Van Gaal says Michael Carrick is his second captain, and a very important player for the team as he signs one year contract extension. The ESPN FC crew break down Manchester United's chances of finishing in a top-four spot in the Premier League. Given how footballers, including Manchester United's players, often make the front pages as well as the back ones, here's a tale that won't make headlines. Take this recent night out for midfielder Michael Carrick. Along with his wife Lisa, the Carricks turned up at a local pub near Woodford in Cheshire for a 60th birthday party for Nev Jennings, a pub regular. "They're lovely people, very down to earth," another guest told us in words which definitely won't be making any tabloid front pages. "They... http://ift.tt/1HfWohwMan City star David Silva open to future La Liga return
Spain international David Silva stressed that he has no immediate plans to leave Manchester City. David Silva says he is happy at Manchester City but could see himself returning to La Liga later in his career, suggesting former side Valencia and hometown club Las Palmas as potential destinations. Silva joined City from Valencia for €32 million in 2010, and extended his contract until 2019 last summer. The Spain international has played over 200 games in all competitions for City, winning two Premier League titles, an FA Cup and the League Cup, although never passing the round-of-16 in... http://ift.tt/19vl2PYUnited's Radamel Falcao: Colombia goals have boosted confidence
On-loan Manchester United striker Radamel Falcao has played down talk of a move to Juventus, as speculation about an imminent exit from Old Trafford continues to grow. Colombia striker Radamel Falcao said he will return to Manchester United with more confidence after rediscovering his touch in front of goal during the international break. Falcao scored a penalty in Monday's 3-1 victory over Kuwait, adding to his two goals in last week's 6-0 win over Bahrain. The striker, who is at United on a season-long loan from Monaco, has scored only four goals in 19 games in the Premier League and has been linked with a move to Juventus this summer, but he hopes his confidence-boosting... http://ift.tt/1MskThYBorussia Dortmund calm over Man United target Mats Hummels
Mats Hummels signed for Dortmund from Bayern Munich. Borussia Dortmund are "completely relaxed" about Mats Hummels' future despite reports linking him with a move to Manchester United. Hummels told kicker on Monday that he is considering his Dortmund future and sources have told ESPN FC that the club are bracing themselves for offers and could be willing to sell. However, Dortmund CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke told Bild: "Mats held talks with me and [sporting director] Michael Zorc 14 days ago, and informed us that he is mulling over his... http://ift.tt/1advlsWSouthampton announce first profit since 2009
Southampton have enjoyed success on and off this pitch this season. Southampton have announced after tax profits of £33.4 million for the year ending June 30, 2014, their first full-year profit since the club went into administration in 2009. St Mary's Football Group Limited audited annual results showed a £33.4m profit on ordinary activities compared to a £7.1m loss in 2013. Total revenue increased to £106m from £71.8m in 2013 while group wages, including players, increased from £41.4m in 2013 to £55.2m in 2014. Southampton chief... http://ift.tt/1adsL63Monday, March 30, 2015
Liverpool's Daniel Sturridge in fitness race to face Arsenal
Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge has been ruled out for a month adding to Brendan Rodgers concerns as he attempts to get Liverpool back into the UEFA Champions League next season. Liverpool will give Daniel Sturridge a chance to prove he can overcome a thigh injury and play in Saturday's Premier League match at Arsenal. The club's medical staff have looked at the problem and feel that he could play against Arsenal, sources have told ESPN FC. However, he will not be risked if manager Brendan Rodgers feels that there is a danger of aggravating the injury. Sturridge withdrew from the England squad for matches against Lithuania and Italy after tearing a hip muscle. The 25-year-old... http://ift.tt/19CqznyESPN FC Extra Time: Sterling to stay?
The ESPN FC panel answer your tweets on Jose Mourinho's future with Chelsea, if Raheem Sterling will stay at Anfield and more. http://ift.tt/1Et0IfJ
Man United boss Louis Van Gaal insists he's 'flexible' and not a dicator
The ESPN FC crew break down the tactical change for Juan Mata in Manchester United's formation against Liverpool. Louis van Gaal is adamant he is no dictator -- as Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney described his manager as a nice guy. The 63-year-old has a reputation as an autocrat but Van Gaal insists he is flexible in both his footballing and his private life. And the former Ajax, Barcelona and Bayern Munich manager said he will change his methods and his approach if his coaching staff or his players ask him to. "I am a very flexible man," he told MUTV. "[People] are always thinking I am a boss, maybe... http://ift.tt/19rnhneStoke manager Mark Hughes' impact impresses club chairman
Mark Hughes has won 40 percent of the games that he's managed at Stoke City. Stoke chairman Peter Coates admits he was not expecting manager Mark Hughes to make the progress he has in such a short time. The former Wales boss took over from Tony Pulis for the 2013/14 season after the Potters decided they needed a change of direction. Hughes guided the club to ninth place that season, their highest finish since being promoted to the Premier League in 2008, with their biggest points tally of 50. Stoke are currently 10th on 42 points and with eight matches remaining look set... http://ift.tt/1DlR5ziJuan Mata wants return to Spain squad after good season at Man United
The ESPN FC crew assess Spain's performance against Ukraine and if it's good enough for the European Championship. Juan Mata has enjoyed a fine season for Manchester United, but a return to Spain's national side remains out of reach. Manchester United midfielder Juan Mata has not given up hope of playing for Spain again. The 26-year-old has not featured for La Roja since a 3-0 triumph over Australia in Spain's final group game at last year's World Cup in Brazil. Mata, who has scored 10 goals in 34 appearances since making his Spain debut six years ago, wrote on his blog: "Many of you are asking me these days about the Spanish national team. "As I always say, I have been very lucky to play and to win a World Cup and a European... http://ift.tt/1G91NrUHarry Kane's dream season for Tottenham and England continues
England left back Leighton Baines poured praise on Harry Kane, after the Tottenham forward came on as a substitute to score on his international debut against Lithuania. Tottenham's emerging star striker Harry Kane continued his dream season by scoring on his England debut Friday against Lithuania. He's also currently tied with Chelsea's Diego Costa atop the Premier League scoring chart with 19 goals this season. Here are five notes on this hurricane of season from Kane: * According to The Guardian, Kane is the 17th player to score on his England debut. At 79 seconds, his strike was the third-fastest goal by an England debutant after Bill Nicholson in 1951 (19 seconds)... http://ift.tt/1HflLjjEverton's Ross Barkley admits that he has underperformed this season
Roberto Martinez gave his reaction on Sunday after QPR went down 2-1 at home to Everton in the Premier League. Everton midfielder Ross Barkley has admitted to being below his best this season, but thinks he will be stronger for the experience. The 21-year-old established himself as a regular at Goodison Park in 2013-14 as they finished fifth in the Premier League. His form was good enough to win him a place in England's 2014 World Cup squad, but he has struggled for form since. Barkley has scored only twice this season for an Everton side who are 13th in the league ahead of Saturday's home match against Southampton. "From... http://ift.tt/1HXkH7cArsenal defender Hector Bellerin explains switch from Barcelona
Hector Bellerin has made the most of his chance this season. Arsenal right-back Hector Bellerin has said he is unsure if he would have made the grade if he had stayed at Barcelona and is pleased to have been given a chance by Arsene Wenger. Bellerin, 20, has deputised for the injured Mathieu Debuchy this season and has looked comfortable despite having started the season without a Premier League appearance to his name. The Spaniard went on loan to Watford in the English Championship in 2013-14 and has developed well since leaving the Camp Nou at the age of... http://ift.tt/1BW21wmLionel Messi ranks top in 2015, Cristiano Ronaldo 29th - CIES study
Argentine football star Lionel Messi and his teammates were spotted today at the Pacers vs Wizards NBA game. Lionel Messi and the Argentina national squad train at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. ahead of the friendly internationals against El Salvador and Ecuador. Cristiano Ronaldo has some work to do to catch up. Lionel Messi has been the best performing forward in Europe's elite leagues in 2015, according to a CIES Football Observatory study, while it ranked Cristiano Ronaldo only 29th among forwards. The CIES study assessed players in La Liga, the Premier League, the Bundesliga, Ligue 1 and Serie A according to six Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) -- shooting, chance creation, take-ons, distribution, recovery and rigour. CHAMPIONS LEAGUE TOP SCORERS 1. Lionel Messi - 75 (94 games) - Barcelona 1. Cristiano Ronaldo - 75 (111) - Man Utd, Real Madrid 3. Raul - 71 (142) - Real Madrid, Schalke 04 4. Ruud van Nistelrooy - 56 (73) - PSV, Man Utd, Real Madrid 5. Thierry Henry - 50 (112) - Monaco, Arsenal, Barcelona Barcelona star Messi, who has scored 17 goals in La Liga since Jan. 1, rated as... http://ift.tt/1EpL3h7Hristo Stoichkov slams Louis van Gaal for Barcelona exit
Hristo Stoichkov scored 109 goals during his first stint at Barcelona. Hristo Stoichkov has hit out at Louis van Gaal, claiming the current Manchester United manager engineered his departure from Barcelona. The Bulgaria legend played for Van Gaal briefly during the 1997-98 season, when Stoichkov had returned to the Camp Nou and the Dutchman had arrived from Ajax. And Stoichkov, a forward who scored 314 goals in his club career, told L'Equipe: "I don't have any respect for him. He's a bastard. "One day, when I was injured and I was with my wife at the Camp Nou, he went... http://ift.tt/1OPFcETNewcastle post record £18.7 million profit
Newcastle play their home games at St James' Park, which has a capacity of 52,338. Newcastle have announced record profits of £18.7 million last season due to increases in television income and new deals with sponsors. The club also saw revenues increase by 35 percent from £95.9 million to £129.7 million, the club said. More than half Newcastle's income -- £78.3 million -- came from the new Premier League television rights deals, with commercial income also increasing. A Newcastle statement said: "Most significantly, the club reported strong commercial revenue... http://ift.tt/1GGvUraShould Theo Walcott leave Arsenal to get his career back on track?
It's been another season of injuries and frustrations for Theo Walcott. Theo Walcott will probably start for England against Italy on Tuesday, largely thanks to injuries to Danny Welbeck and Raheem Sterling. Frankly, Walcott was fairly lucky to be selected for the squad in the first place given his relative lack of action this season, and will now get his chance due to others being indisposed. At the moment, that looks like the only way he's going to get into the Arsenal team too. Since returning from injury in November, Walcott has found himself some way down the pecking... http://ift.tt/1Dk6gsTManchester City's Aleksandar Kolarov says he would like to return to Italy
Manchester City boss Manuel Pellegrini speaks after his team's 3-0 victory over West Brom ESPN FC's Shaka Hislop says Arsenal still have a legitimate claim to second place after City's performance against West Brom on Saturday. Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini is concerned his side haven't had enough time to prepare for their match against West Brom. Aleksandar Kolarov has suggested that he would like to leave Manchester City to rejoin an Italian club. The left-back spent three seasons at Lazio before moving to City for £19 million in 2010. Since then, he has regularly been linked with Serie A clubs, most recently Inter Milan, who are managed by his former City boss Roberto Mancini. MANCHESTER CITY LATEST - Macintosh: Man City rout 10-man West Brom - Player Ratings: Bony gets off the mark - Simeone could still land at Man City - Macintosh: From Pellegrini to Guardiola - Transfers: City planning summer fire sale? Kolarov told Sky Sport Italia: "I'd like to return to Italy, but it's difficult." The Serbia international mentioned his former club Lazio and Sampdoria, who... http://ift.tt/1Dk0RSxChelsea on cusp of a generational shift amongst fans in Southeast Asia
Amir Mirza, centre, Gerald Sim, left, and Zikry Azahar are among the new generation of Chelsea fans in Singapore. Singaporeans Jayden Goh, 9, and Amir Mirza, 12, are young fans of the English Premier League. But they do not support Liverpool or Manchester United like their respective fathers. The duo have been passionate Chelsea supporters from the age of seven. Jayden is an ardent admirer of playmaker Eden Hazard whom he wants to emulate when he grows up. Amir is still in awe of Frank Lampard, even though the veteran midfielder has since moved to Manchester City. And, with Chelsea on course for their fourth... http://ift.tt/1CC0hNIMats Hummels unsure on Dortmund future amid Man United links
Ahead of their Bundesliga clash with Bayern Munich on Saturday April 4, Borussia Dortmund's Sven Bender insists his side are confident of an upset, against the defending champions. Mats Hummels has made 17 Bundesliga appearances this season. Manchester United target Mats Hummels has told kicker he is considering his Borussia Dortmund future. Hummels, who is under contract at Dortmund until 2017, has been linked with a move to the Premier League side. Last week, the Daily Mail reported that United are ready to bid £36 million for the Germany international, and sources told ESPN FC that BVB are bracing themselves for offers and could be willing to sell. Dortmund have said 26-year-old Hummels "is an incredibly important player for... http://ift.tt/19zdco9Phil Jones: Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal has improved me
Phil Jones appears to be developing a strong partnership with Chris Smalling in the Manchester United defence. Phil Jones thinks he has improved as a footballer under Louis van Gaal and thanked the Manchester United manager for the development in his game. Jones, 23, seems to finally be establishing himself in the centre of the United defence and has formed a fine partnership with his fellow Englishman Chris Smalling in the recent 3-0 win over Tottenham and 2-1 victory against Liverpool. He believes Van Gaal's methods are a major reason he has kicked on this season, telling a news conference: "I think it... http://ift.tt/1Ie9iwsIs Daniel Sturridge the latest Liverpool striker whose best was short-lived?
ESPN FC's Tommy Smyth and Ross Dyer weigh in on the impact that Daniel Sturridge's latest injury will have on Liverpool and their top four hopes. Liverpool lost ground to Manchester United in the Premier League after their 2-1 defeat on March 23. They also lost the services of Steven Gerrard and Martin Skrtel for three games each through suspension. Now it appears Daniel Sturridge has picked up yet another knock and could miss a month's worth of upcoming fixtures. It might have been better for the club if they'd just handed United the points beforehand and rested for a few weeks. The loss of Sturridge might only have been delayed anyway... http://ift.tt/1bIltrmJohn Barnes: Black managers rarely get second chances
Former England international John Barnes has not managed since his brief stint at Tranmere in 2009. John Barnes claims he is struggling to get a job in management because he is black. The former Liverpool star's last managerial job was at Tranmere in 2009, where he lasted four months before being sacked. The 51-year-old has previously been in charge of Celtic and the Jamaica national team. Barnes insisted that had he been white he would have got another job. "A white manager loses his job and gets another job. He loses his job, he gets another job. Very few black managers can lose their job and... http://ift.tt/19mDSINManchester City, Manuel Pellegrini must regroup after international break
Manchester City boss Manuel Pellegrini speaks after his team's 3-0 victory over West Brom Manchester City's form has them set to finish in 5th place this season. This was the startling news one website brought us earlier this month in light of City's drastic slump on the pitch. If, we were told, this ever-patchier form continued, City would risk falling out of the fabled top four and losing their place at the Champions League table. More recently still, the Manchester Evening News also published a supposed supporter poll where -- amongst others -- Yaya Toure, Samir Nasri and Edin Dzeko... http://ift.tt/19yVcKvCharles Aranguiz interested in Arsenal transfer
Charles Aranguiz celebrates his goal for Chile at last summer's World Cup. Chile international Charles Aranguiz has said it would be a "dream" to play for Arsenal. Aranguiz, who plays for Brazilian club Internacional, has been linked with a move to the Premier League. The midfielder, 25, was in action for Chile at Emirates Stadium on Sunday as his nation lost 1-0 to Brazil. Brazil Chile 1 0 FT Game Details GameCast Lineups and Stats Asked about Arsenal after the match, the Daily Mail quotes Aranguiz as saying: "They're a great team, and it would be a dream but for now that's all it is, a dream. "I don't know anything about it.... http://ift.tt/1F8zlF0Sunday, March 29, 2015
WATCH: Liverpool all-star game
Arsenal legend Thierry Henry played a charity match at Anfield with Steven Gerrard's all-star cast against Jamie Carragher's XI. http://ift.tt/1DiS6ID
Nathaniel Clyne delays Southampton contract talks until summer - sources
ESPN FC's Tommy Smyth and Alexis Nunes talk Manchester United transfer rumors, namely Southampton's Nathaniel Clyne and whether or not the defender is a realistic target for the Red Devils. Southampton full-back Nathaniel Clyne has told his club that he will not make any decision on his future until next summer, sources have told ESPN FC. Reports earlier this month had suggested that Clyne had turned down a lucrative new contract offer from Southampton, with Manchester United continuing to be linked with a move for the 23-year-old who has impressed in the Premier League his season. Yet ESPN sources suggest Clyne has informed Southampton that he will sit down and discuss his options... http://ift.tt/1CnwQO9Eden Hazard should win Player of the Year awards by a landslide
The ESPN FC crew react to Chelsea forward Eden Hazard's latest comments about his side's elimination from the UEFA Champions League. Now that the flowers are starting to bloom and leaves return to the trees, it is almost time for the big prizes to be handed out. One has already been allocated, of course, with the Capital One Cup now residing at Stamford Bridge but the Premier League and FA Cup are still being pursued. Although another visit to Wembley is out of the question this campaign, there is a significant chance that the title might also be returning to West London. The other accolades still in the offing are the individual... http://ift.tt/1D9rGakFalcao plays down Juventus transfer talk
On-loan Manchester United striker Radamel Falcao has played down talk of a move to Juventus, as speculation about an imminent exit from Old Trafford continues to grow. http://ift.tt/1a7SYmA
Palace's Pardew and Jedinak deserve end of season award consideration
Crystal Palace boss Alan Pardew says he hopes his players 'respond' to the Eagles fans who have been offered free coach travel to Stoke City for Saturday's Premier League game. We're approaching that part of the season when the awards start to get polished, the tuxedos get ordered and the champagne gets put on ice, but will there be be any Palace staff celebrating? In a word, no. Despite impressing plenty and looking like they'll finish way higher than preseason expectations, out-performing plenty of bigger teams, there won't be any awards for Eagles players or managers come May. The best chance the club has of being represented at a glitzy award ceremony is manager Alan... http://ift.tt/1yq1UsRLuis Suarez returns to Anfield for first time for Liverpool charity game
ESPN FC's Tommy Smyth and Ross Dyer weigh in on the impact that Daniel Sturridge's latest injury will have on Liverpool and their top four hopes. Luis Suarez received a rapturous reception as he made his first return to Anfield since joining Barcelona, playing the second half of a charity game between sides captained by Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher. Suarez was cheered on and off the pitch and formed a strike partnership with fellow ex-Liverpool player Fernando Torres in a match that raised at least £1 million for the Liverpool FC Foundation. Suarez scored 82 goals in 133 games for Liverpool before he was sold to Barca last summer... http://ift.tt/1F6zHvOManchester United yet to open contract talks with Chris Smalling
The ESPN FC panel debate whether or not Manchester United should keep Marouane Fellaini next season, provided that they finish in the Premier League top four. Chris Smalling has said Manchester United have yet to begin negotiations with him about a new contract but he is eager to stay at Old Trafford. Smalling's current deal expires in 2016 and United run the risk of losing the England international -- who cost £10.5 million when he joined from Fulham in 2010 -- on a free transfer next year. But although the defender has been linked with a move to Arsenal and has been in fine form for United recently, the club are waiting before offering... http://ift.tt/19w6lvvDanny Welbeck credits England form with move to Arsenal from Man Utd
England left back Leighton Baines poured praise on Harry Kane, after the Tottenham forward came on as a substitute to score on his international debut against Lithuania. Danny Welbeck believes signing for Arsenal has helped him to improve his international form for England. Welbeck, 24, scored England's second goal in Friday's 4-0 Euro 2016 qualifying win against Lithuania to take his tally for his nation up to 14, while his display led to him being named man of the match. The forward also leads the qualifying scoring charts with six goals, and he puts this all down to playing more regularly since making the move from Manchester United to Arsenal last summer. "When... http://ift.tt/1MjAOzgArsenal's Alexis Sanchez thrilled to be playing in the Premier League
Alexis Sanchez has scored 19 goals for Arsenal this season. Alexis Sanchez says he is loving playing for Arsenal in the Premier League. Sanchez, 26, moved to the Gunners from Barcelona last summer for a fee of £35 million. And although the Chile international has not been at his best in recent games, he has taken to life in England quickly having scored 19 goals for Arsenal this season. "I'm well adapted to the country and the league now. I must keep on learning, though," Sanchez is quoted as saying by the Daily Mail. "I want to expand my knowledge... http://ift.tt/19vzszaPatrick Kluivert: I nearly joined Louis van Gaal at Manchester United
The ESPN FC panel debate whether or not Manchester United should keep Marouane Fellaini next season, provided that they finish in the Premier League top four. Curacao coach Patrick Kluivert has revealed he did not follow Louis van Gaal to Manchester United as his No. 2 last summer as he was holding out for a managerial role instead. Kluivert, who was appointed as Curacao boss earlier this month, was Van Gaal's assistant with Netherlands during the 2014 World Cup. Van Gaal is now assisted by Ryan Giggs at United, but Kluivert says he came close to taking on the role, only to be advised to instead make the move into management by his former Ajax and Barcelona... http://ift.tt/19fK6u5
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