Interactive Sport

Eden Hazard ‘set to be offered £300,000-a-week extension’. Premier League giants, Chelsea, is planning to offer Eden Hazard a huge contract renewal. It is hoped that the new contract will ward off Real Madrid. Hazard has been a top transfer target of the Spanish giants. Premier League giants, Chelsea, is planning to offer Eden Hazard a huge contract renewal to ward off the growing interest from Real Madrid, according to reports. The Belgian forward, has occasionally been identified as a top target for Los Blancos but Chelsea chiefs want Hazard to agree an extension worth around £300,000-a-week, claims the Daily Mail. The current deal of the 27-year-old runs out in 2020 - meaning Chelsea are under no pressure to sell but the club are desperate to keep their star man happy. Hazard's future could depend on the Blues qualifying for the Champions League after slipping out of the top four following their 2-1 defeat at Manchester United. And Real's interest could disappear should Zin...

   Usain Bolt appears set to join Mamelodi Sundowns after Twitter hint. Legendary sprinter, Usain Bolt appears set to begin his football career at South African football side Mamelodi Sundowns. Sundowns gave a strong hint of his arrival on their official twitter on Monday, February 26. Bolt had initially declared on social media that he had signed for a football team saying that the announcement would be made on Tuesday at 8am. Legendary sprinter, Usain Bolt appears set to begin his football career at South African football side Mamelodi Sundowns. Sundowns gave a strong hint of his arrival on their official twitter on Monday, February 26. The South African Premier Division leaders raised eyebrow when they shared a photo of the Jamaican sprinter wearing their training gear along with the caption: "Football will never be the same. Find out tomorrow [Tuesday] 8am GMT." Bolt had initially declared on social media that he had signed for a football team saying that the announcement...

Real Madrid forward, Cristiano Ronaldo, has insisted he is not consumed about adding to his five Ballon d’Or awards. Ronaldo has netted 27 goals in all competitions this season, bouncing back from early-season struggles to score eight in Madrid’s last four games. Last year, the Portugal captain said he wanted to win seven Ballons d’Or, but in an interview with Brazilian Youtube channel Desimpedidos, he said he would be content to finish with five. “I never dreamt of winning five Ballons d’Or. “But if my career had to end now, I would do so very happily. I’ve won everything. Of course I would be delighted to win one two or three more Ballons d’Or but if I don’t, I’ve already won five. “It’s obviously my ambition and I still have the capacity to do so and the strength to fight to be the best in the world although others believe the contrary. I have confidence in myself. But it all depends on the trophies that we win this season, on how I finish [the campaign] and on the World Cup,” Rona...

Arsenal will review Arsene Wenger’s position this summer and it is vert likely it will see the Frenchman’s 22-year reign come to an end. The Gunners have already started compiling a list of potential candidates to replace Wenger. Monaco boss Leonardo Jardim, Germany manager Joachim Low, Celtic head coach Brendan Rodgers and Manchester City coach Mikel Arteta are among the early contenders. It is however understood that Wenger, who is now under more fire following Sunday’s Carabao Cup final defeat to Manchester City, will fight to see out the final 12 months of his contract. Much will depend on whether Wenger can lead the club back into the Champions League. As it stands now, the only feasible route is by winnig the Europa League. They face a two-legged clash against AC Milan in the next round.

Paris-Saint Germain have confirmed Neymar has suffered a fractured metatarsal and a sprained ankle. Neymar could miss the Champions League clash with Real Madrid on March 6 due to the injury he picked up in their 3-0 win over Marseille. The Brazil international was stretchered off in tears after rolling his ankle following a challenge from Bouna Sarr which left him fearing his season would be over. With rumours that Neymar is unsettled at PSG, could Robert Lewandowski leave Bayern Munich and be his replacement? Former Liverpool managing director Christian Purslow believes a transfer merry-go-round could begin. Following the injury confirmation, Neymar will be expected to miss the return leg against the reigning European Champions next week, but should recover before the end of the season and the World Cup. Wayne Rooney suffered a similar injury in May 2006 playing for Manchester United against Chelsea and was able to return to fitness after six weeks - in time for England's World ...

Jack Wilshere has taken to social media to criticise referee Craig Pawson's performance in the Carabao Cup final. Arsenal were comprehensively beaten 3-0 by Manchester City at Wembley on Sunday with Gary Neville labelling the players "spineless" and "an absolute disgrace" . Wilshere said the team had to accept criticism but he chose to point the finger at the officials on his Instagram account. He posted: "Hard to put into words my emotions about yesterday. "City are a good team and deserved to win. A lot of people have had their say on us and we have to accept criticism when we lose. jackwilshere Hard to put into words my emotions about yesterday. City are a good team and deserved to win yesterday. Alot of people have had thie say on us and we have to accept cristism when we lose. That being said can't accept some of the decisions that went against us yesterday. What ever you say about the first goal, its a foul. The second goal is offside. There...

Pogba shows new hairstyle despite his future not sure at United. He started for Manchester United on Sunday against Chelsea at Old Trafford. The former Juventus star is wanted by Spanish club Real Madrid. Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future at Manchester United, Frenchman Paul Pogba has taken to his official Instagram page to show his new hairstyle cut. This comes a day after helping his club to beat reigning Premier League champions Chelsea 2-1 in a tough League match played at Old Trafford. Many football fans thought Paul Pogba would be on bench against Chelsea, but he started the match which ended in a win for the Red Devils. He has now shown a new hairstyle to celebrate Manchester United's win over Chelsea.  Reports last week claimed that Real Madrid who missed out on Pogba in 2016 when he joined United are readying a mammoth £120m bid for him at the end of the ongoing season.                                    But according to the report by Don Balon, Manchester Un...

                                                                Lionel Messi's grandfather Antonio Cuccittini has passed away in Argentina. He died at the age of 89, and he was the father to Lionel Messi's mother.   Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi is currently bereaved following the death of his grandfather Antonio Cuccittini who is said to have died last week Wednesday in Argentina. Antonio Cuccittini is Lionel Messi's mother's father and died at age of 89 in Rosario where he had been living alone since death of his wife in 1998. According to the report by Telam, Cuccittini suffered a breakdown in his home and when an ambulance arrived, he was diagnosed with a loss of consciousness and respiratory failure. His late wife Celia who died in the year 1998 is said to be the grandmother Messi dedicated all of his goals to by pointing to the sky. Both of them are said to have played an important role in the career of Lionel Messi while growing up. Meanwhile, Lionel Messi pla...

Pep Guardiola has revealed how he wanted to work with Arsene Wenger during his playing days and how close he came to joining Arsenal, only to be told there was no space in the squad. Arsenal manager Wenger revealed during the week he was once visited by Guardiola at his home when he wanted to sign for the Gunners . That move did not materialise, but, speaking ahead of the Carabao Cup final between Manchester City and Arsenal on Sunday.  City boss Guardiola said: "I would have liked to have played for him. "I called him to make an interview and he invited me to his home, he was so kind. I said my dream is to play in the Premier League and I would like to play with you and I feel I can help you. Maybe it was a little bit arrogant but he had his squad and he said there was no space. "I understand completely but I would have liked to have played with him. It was not possible, so no problem at all." Guardiola's managerial philosophy has been compared to Wenger's...

Floyd Mayweather has bought himself a new jet to celebrate his 41st birthday.  The American posted the photo of his new property on his Instagram page Retired American professional boxer Floyd Mayweather is one of the successful and richest athletes in the world considering what he has acquired in the game of boxing. Floyd Mayweather is known to be a fan of luxury and also spends lots of money on anything he wants thanks the fortune he has made in the ring game. He clocked 41 on Sunday, February 24, and the American has treated himself well by buying a new jet to celebrate his birthday. Mayweather took to his official Instagram page to announce his new expensive property on Sunday morning, February 25. The now retired American boxer showed off his white Rolls Royce Phantom Drophead Coupes which has a starting price of £350,000. In a video on his Instagram page, the 41-year-old also showed off a bright red Lamborghini Aventador (£275,000) and a bright yellow Ferrari 488 (£200,000).

Manchester City's success is not about Guardiola - Wenger.     Arsene Wenger does not believe Pep Guardiola should be praised for Man City's superb performance this season.   The Arsenal boss explained that huge spending has helped Manchester City this term and not the ability of their coach. Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has stated that Manchester City's superb performance this season in the Premier League is not about the ability of Pep Guardiola. Manchester City are topping the Premier League table, and they are favorites to win the League title at the end of the ongoing campaign. But Frenchman Arsene Wenger does not believe that Pep Guardiola has the managerial Midas touch, but claimed spending big is what is helping Manchester City.    When asked if Guardiola has taken football in England to another level, Wenger said:' 'No. Because look at Barcelona, they are still the best team in Europe.       "You have to accept that the modern game has changed, with ...

Bakayoko, Barkley and Luiz will not face Man Utd - Antonio Conte.      Bakayoko, Barkley and David Luiz are the 3 Chelsea players that will not face Man United. This was confirmed by the Blues' coach Antonio Conte ahead of the Sunday's Clash. Chelsea gaffer Antonio Conte has named Tiemoue Bakayoko, Ross Barkley and David Luiz as the only three of his players that will not face Manchester United in their next game. Manchester United will on Sunday, February 25, be at Old Trafford to host reigning Premier League champions Chelsea. Brazilian defender David Luiz has recuperated from the injury he suffered last year, but Conte has confirmed that he will not face United. ''Tiemoue Bakayoko, Barkley and David Luiz are out of our next game at Manchester United, but all other players are available for the match,'' the Italian said according to Metro. Chelsea's last game was in the Champions League where they were forced to a 1-1 draw by Spanish club Barcelona, but C...

Anthony Martial has emerged as a target for Spanish club Real Madrid.                                                       Anthony Martial has emerged as a target for Spanish club Real Madrid. His current contract at Manchester United will expire next season. Martial is not currently having active playing time at Manchester United. Manchester United striker Anthony Martial has reportedly emerged as a summer transfer target for reigning Spanish and European League champions Real Madrid. Anthony Martial's current contract at Old Trafford will expire next summer, and there are reports that Manchester United are planning to offer the Frenchman a new deal. But nothing has been done regarding his future at Old Trafford in which the arrival of Chilean striker Alexis Sanchez is said to be the rationale United chiefs have not talked to Martial over an extension. United have the option of extending his contract by a further 12 months, but it is understood that the 2015 Golden Boy winner...

Reports have it that Lionel Messi has approved the Dembele/Griezmann swap deal, Dembele has a €100m release clause and Griezmann is worth the same price tag. It is believed that Messi wants to win more laurels in the latter part of his career with Barcelona. Lionel Messi has reportedly told Barcelona to involve Ousmane Dembele in a swap deal for Atletico Madrid forward Antoine Griezmann. According to Diario Gol, the 20-year-old could be heading to the Estadio Municipal if not given another chance to prove himself at Nou Camp next season. Griezmann on the other hand, has endured to a slow start to the campaign with 13 goals and nine assists after 31 appearances so far this season but has been proving his importance and class for club and country for years now.                            As for Messi who will turn 31 this year, he wants to be competing for major honours in the latter stages of his career and it would appear as though he believes Griezmann offers a better chance of that c...

Jose Mourinho has indirectly taken a swipe at Pep Guardiola after City lost to Wigan in the FA Cup. The Portuguese boss stated that his opposite number United lost with dignity when knocked out of the Carabo Cup. Manchester City behaved inappropriately at the DW Stadium during the fifth round loss to Wigan Jose Mourinho has taken a swipe at Pep Guardiola after Manchester City 1-0 loss to Wigan in the fifth round FA Cup. The Manchester United manager insisted that his side "lose with dignity" after disturbing scenes that followed Guardiola's player could not control themselves at the DW Stadium. The Portuguese coach appeared to reference how City handled their quadruple hopes down the drain when Will Grigg struck in one of the biggest shocks in the competition's history. Mourinho explained how his side took a similar shock in the Carabao Cup when they were eliminated by Bristol City in the quarter-finals. "Of course, we would like to be better in the Premier Leag...

Cristiano Ronaldo has posted lovely photo of himself and girlfriend Georgina Rodriquez. They were both in joyous mood while stepping out of their private jet. Real Madrid superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has posted an adorable photo of himself and stunning girlfriend Georgina Rodriquez. The Portuguese international and the mother of his last child were stepping out of their private jet after training with Real Madrid teammates. Ronaldo showed an equally-good knowledge of old pop songs or more likely English expressions - as he captioned the snap: "Love is in the air." The former Manchester United star and Rodriguez now seem relaxed and happy after tense times in January 2018 following claims he sent late-night messages to model Rhian Sugden. Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo has not been impressive this season for Real Madrid in the Spanish La Liga, but he was excellent in his side's ...

Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has said he is not sure if he will remain at the Stamford Bridge next season. The 25-year-old conceded one goal as the Blues were held to a 1-1 draw by Barcelona on Tuesday - He says his two children are in Spain, saying he is expecting to hear from Real Madrid president, Florentino Perez. Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is unsure if he will remain at the Stamford Bridge next season amidst Real Madrid. The Belgium international was in goal for the Blues in their 1-1 draw against Barcelona in the first leg round of 16 encounter on Tuesday night. And the former Atletico Madrid shot-stopper, who is yet to extend his contract with the current Premier League champions, claims it is stressful staying away from his two children who are in Spain. Chelsea are currently struggling to hold on to the 25-year-old and his team-mate, Eden Hazard, who are currently being targeted by Los Blancos' manager Zinedine Zidane. But the west London club may be conce...

Chelsea boss Antonio Conte says he has suffered sleepless nights plotting the downfall of Barcelona and Lionel Messi. The Blues host the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie against the Catalan giants at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday looking to maintain their impressive record against Messi's men. Barcelona's history against Chelsea is best summed up by their semi-final meeting in this competition in 2012 when they surrendered a two-goal lead to crash out at the Nou Camp as Roberto Di Matteo's side went on to lift the Champions League for the first time.                                                                         "In these days after the game in the FA Cup, I must be honest, it was a bit difficult to sleep well," he said. "When you have to play this type of game, you have to prepare. You have to prepare everything. You have to prepare big things, but the smaller details too. "They can move a result a lot of the time. We have an idea....

Chelsea midfielder, Eden Hazard, has spoken about comparisons with Lionel Messi, who he faces on Tuesday night in the Champions League round of 16. Hazard says he’s flattered, but insists he’s a “completely different” player to the Argentine superstar. “It’s good to be compared with the greatest ever, Messi or [Cristiano] Ronaldo. “But I’m completely different. We play in a different league. “I try to do my job and try to reach their level, because they are the best in the world. Every season I try and do my best. “When we play this kind of games, we need to perform. If you want to be one of the best, you have to play well in the big games. This is a big game. Let’s go for it and try and give everything. “Last year we didn’t play Champions League, but this year we are back and I played a few good games: Atletico Madrid away, Roma, and here against Madrid. “You want to shine when you play the best in the world. If I want to reach that level, I need to do a great game tomorrow,” Hazard ...

Manchester United goalkeeper, David de Gea, has made a decision over his long-term future. The Daily Star Sunday reports that the Spaniard is not looking to move this summer. De Gea has been heavily linked with a switch to Real Madrid again, but insists he is happy in Manchester. “Time flies by so quickly. I’ve been here seven years and I am happy. “A lot has happened to me – some very good, some not so good, – but to be honest I am just really happy. “I feel like an important player in the dressing room. I am one of the oldest in the team. It makes me happy to see the younger players coming through – and trying to make United big,” De Gea said.

Manchester United manager, Jose Mourinho, has said he hopes to have some of his key players fit for Wednesday’s clash with Sevilla in the Champions League. United overcame Huddersfield 2-0 in the FA Cup on Saturday without a host of first-team players. Marcus Rashford, Antonio Valencia, Ander Herrera, Phil Jones, Marcos Rojo, Marouane Fellaini and Zlatan Ibrahimovic all missed out due to injury, while Paul Pogba was sidelined by illness. Mourinho’s men next travel to Spain for a Champions League last-16 first leg against Sevilla in midweek, before hosting Chelsea at Old Trafford this weekend. “I didn’t rest one single player, so we had every player available here. “I brought two kids (Ethan Hamilton and Angel Gomes) that played 90 minutes yesterday (for the U23s) because I don’t have another player. “Can we recover some of them for Wednesday? I believe so. “Rashford, Herrera, Valencia, I think they have a chance. Paul (Pogba), I don’t know. “Marcos Rojo, Phil Jones, Marouane, Zlatan –...

Chelsea manager, Antonio Conte, has admitted that his team must produce the ‘perfect game’ to get the better of Barcelona in their Champions League last-16 tie. The Blues will battle the La Liga league leaders at Stamford Bridge for the opening leg on Tuesday night. Conte, however, insisted Chelsea face a huge challenge against the Catalan club, who stayed undefeated in the La Liga after defeating Eibar 2-0 on Saturday, which moved Ernesto Valverde’s men 10 points clear in the Spanish topflight league. “On one hand you know this team are one of the best in the world – maybe they are favorites’ to win this competition,” Conte told reporters. “On the other hand, we must be excited because we have a great opportunity to play a massive game against a really strong team and to show which is our level. “For sure we are talking about one of the best teams in the world. We have to try to, I repeat, have the perfect game. “The perfect game to try to make the best decisions for this type of tea...

Jose Mourinho's strong rebuttal cannot mask "quite obvious" issues with Paul Pogba and could lead to a "stand-off" between the pair, according to the Sunday Supplement panel. Recent reports suggested Pogba is unhappy with the position he is being asked to play at Manchester United. Mourinho slammed claims of tension between the pair as "lies" before Saturday's 2-0 FA Cup win at Huddersfield, but the Telegraph's Jason Burt thinks he is hiding the truth. "At the very least, there are strains," Burt told the Sunday Supplement . "It's quite obvious that there's an issue and you can tell by the way Mourinho is talking about it. "I'm not saying it's irrecoverable but it's quite serious. He's your most expensive player and, alongside Sanchez, your biggest star. "You've got to try to resolve the situation. Mourinho's natural instinct is to put his foot down. That's what he'd expect to do...

Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho says reports midfielder Paul Pogba regrets joining the club and could leave this summer are “lies”. Pogba was said to be irritated at not being employed more offensively, but Mourinho said that was not true. He also criticised “the biggest pundit industry” and said he “doesn’t have to speak about conversations with players”. But he added that Pogba “accepts he has not been playing well”. When asked for his thoughts on ‘speculation’ in the media, Mourinho replied: “I think you are nice with your words – because when you say lot of speculation you should say a lot of lies. Don’t be nice, be objective and say lies. “It’s a big lie that our relation is not good, it’s a big lie that we don’t communicate, a big lie that we don’t agree with his positions and his involvement in the dynamic of the team. “It’s easy and honest and objective to say Paul didn’t play well against Newcastle but some of the guys they are paid millions, don’t let people read things...

Roger Federer is now the oldest world No 1 in the history of tennis. Federer returned to the summit of men’s tennis for the first time in more than five years, after he beat Robin Haase at Rotterdam’s ABN Amro World Tennis Tournament. The 36-year-old secured his spot in the history books and the last four of the tournament with a 4-6 6-1 6-1 victory against Haase on Friday. Federer needed to reach the semi-finals, in order to overtake Rafael Nadal when the rankings are next updated on Monday. The Swiss was last the top-ranked player in November 2012 and will replace Andre Agassi, who was 33 when he topped the standings in 2003.

Manchester United attacking midfielder, Paul Pogba is angry over the arrival of Alexis Sanchez at Manchester United because manager Jose Mourinho has compelled him to more defensive duties. Pogba was subbed off early in defeats to Tottenham and Newcastle, while he was dropped entirely from the starting XI that beat Huddersfield in the Premier League. The French midfielder has been criticised for neglecting his defensive duties and leaving United exposed to opponents’ attacks. He had also demanded Mourinho change the team’s formation to help him. Duncan Castles, writing for Arab News, claimed that Pogba is very angry with Sanchez and that his ego has been severely dented by the January arrival of the former Barcelona man. According to him, Pogba had always wanted the United team to be built around him, but instead it has been built towards Sanchez within just a few weeks of the Chilean arrival. Pogba is not happy with having to take on extra defensive duties to compensate for Sanchez’s...

Ousmane Dembele is set to leave Barcelona this summer and sign for Arsenal. The French teenager became the world’s second most expensive player, when he moved to the Camp Nou in a €105m deal, to replace Neymar last summer. However, he suffered a hamstring injury in September, which ruled him out for four months. Dembele made a return two weeks ago, but got injured again. Barcelona are expected to strengthen their forward line with the signing of Atletico Madrid forward, Antoine Griezmann this summer. According to Daily Express, this could see Arsenal pounce for Dembele, who would cost around £135m.

Chelsea striker Alvaro Morata admits he made a big mistake in playing through pain this season after his recent injury setbacks for the Blues. The Spain international has not had a particularly happy first season at Stamford Bridge, having failed to build on a promising start and not looking quite in the same league as his centre-forward predecessor Diego Costa. Chelsea fans will have expected more from their big-name summer signing, but the player has now attempted to explain how things have gone wrong for him. Morata himself accepts a large portion of the blame, saying it wasn’t the best idea to play while he was struggling with pain as that affected his performances on the pitch. ‘I made a mistake in that respect as I played with pain [earlier this season],’ Morata told Movistar, as quoted by the Metro. ‘I went through a poor spell where I missed important goals but I wasn’t well physically and mentally.’ Morata never had to cope with being regular first choice at previous club Re...

Liverpool striker Roberto Firmino wants to make Porto “suffer” in their Champions League last-16 first-leg tie. Wednesday’s game at the Estadio do Dragao will be Liverpool’s first match in the knockout stages of the competition since 2008-09. They topped their group scoring 23 goals, a record for an English club and a total surpassed only by Paris St-Germain’s tally of 25. Reds goalkeeper Loris Karius will keep his place ahead of Simon Mignolet, “I don’t know if Porto are going to be afraid but we are going to make their life difficult and make them suffer,” said Firmino, who has scored 20 goals in all competitions, including six in the Champions League. Midfielder Emre Can is suspended for the tie, defender Joe Gomez has travelled with the squad after missing the last two matches with a knee injury while £75m record-signing Virgil van Dijk is set for his first appearance in the competition for the club. Klopp insists his side can compete with the continent’s elite, having beaten “Eur...

Manchester City boss, Pep Guardiola has heaped praise on his players after a 4-0 thrashing of FC Basel in the Champions League round-of-16 on Tuesday. Guardiola had a special praise for star, Ilkay Gundogan following his two goals exploit in the encounter. The Premier League leaders took a giant step towards the Champions League quarter-finals with goals from Gundogan, Bernardo Silva and Sergio Aguero. Gundogan netted first in the 14th minute, heading home Kevin de Bruyne’s corner, before grabbing City’s fourth goal and sealing the win with a sensational strike just after half-time. Guardiola told BT Sport after the game, “Gundogan is an extraordinary player. “Last season we missed him a lot for the six months he was out with an injury. “That’s why we’re so satisfied for the performance – not just for the goals for the quality he has, for the personality to play. He played fantastic.”

Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic labelled team-mate Lionel Messi as “the best in history” and explained the star’s shyness. Messi, 30, is arguably the greatest player of all time, having won five Ballons d’Or to go with numerous team trophies, including eight La Liga crowns and four Champions Leagues. Rakitic lauded his Barca team-mate, saying the Argentina international could turn a game in a moment. “He’s the reference. Our game depends a lot on him. He doesn’t need to talk to understand, a gesture is enough,” the Croatian told Antena 3. “He is the best in history, capable of turning the game around in a second. He is shy because he knows that everyone is watching him.” Rakitic arrived at Barca from Sevilla in 2014 and has helped the Spanish giants win two La Liga crowns and a Champions League title. The 88-time Croatia international said Messi played a key role in helping him settle in at Camp Nou. “He was one of the first to support me when I arrived and I was wondering if I ne...

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte praised the club’s fans for sticking by him, after a comfortable win over West Bromwich Albion at Stamford Bridge eased the pressure on the Italian. Conte’s Chelsea future had been placed under the harshest spotlight after successive heavy losses to Bournemouth and Watford – but a victory that took them back up to fourth in the Premier League will ease those concerns for now. Conte’s name was sung throughout by the home fans, in an obvious show of support. “I have to thank the fans because they showed me great support,” he said. “They are reading speculation and rumours on me and I’m grateful to the fans. “It means they understand my passion, my will to defend this colour, this shirt, this badge. “I have to live with this pressure until the end of the season. I don’t want this pressure to weigh on the shoulders of my players.”

The Blues legend has backed the injured striker who is pushing for a return for the Champions League games against Barcelona. Alvaro Morata has been backed to get back among the goals by former Chelsea striker Tore Andre Flo. Morata's absence has hurt Chelsea in recent weeks, with the Spain international aiming to recover from a back injury in time for the Champions League games versus Barcelona next week. Though Morata has not scored in his last six appearances for Chelsea, Flo thinks the former Real Madrid forward is being judged too harshly and that he will make the same impact he did earlier in the season upon his return. “Not only just because I work here, but I would really defend him any day," Flo, who played more than 150 games for the Blues, said at the launch of the Chelsea Legends match. "He is a very, very good player, I really like him. If he gets a good delivery he is so good in front of goal. I like the way he moves in the build-up and all that. “But, obvi...

How do Manchester United get the best from Paul Pogba and Alexis Sanchez? Manchester United were beaten 1-0 at Newcastle , their second defeat in three games since Alexis Sanchez was introduced to the team. Jose Mourinho has a top-class talent but finding the right balance in attack is the challenge facing the United manager now, writes Adam Bate. "When you watch this Manchester United team, there is so much talent. Paul Pogba, Alexis Sanchez, Romelu Lukaku and Anthony Martial. It just needs five to 10 per cent more intensity. That speed in everything that they do. Every time you watch them, if they could just link together with some rhythm they are not far away. But there is something missing." The game at St James' Park was barely halfway through when Gary Neville delivered that assessment of his former team. It was even more appropriate upon the final whistle with Manchester United having been beaten 1-0 by lowly Newcastle and thus failing to find the back of the oppo...

Chelsea manager, Antonio Conte, claims he has been “a bit of a disaster” when trying to convince his clubs to spend big money on transfers. The Premier League champions are in poor form, having lost 3-0 to Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge, before Watford defeated them 4-1 at Vicarage Road. Their game against West Brom on Monday could be pivotal to Conte’s future and after saying everyone at the Blues is responsible for the club’s current problems, he acknowledged he has done poorly at landing transfer targets. “My task is to try and improve every single player, in every aspect,” Conte said. “About mentality also, about the desire, the will to fight, and the tactical aspects. Yes. My task is this. For this, I’m very good. “I think I’m a bit of a disaster to convince the club to buy the players. I think in this aspect I can improve a lot. I have to learn a lot from the other coaches, the other managers, in that aspect. I can learn a lot in that aspect. “I don’t know [how to improve]. I ha...

Antonio Conte says his future should not depend on winning trophies this season. Antonio Conte has suggested that his future at Chelsea rests on the club's trust in him and should not depend on whether they win silverware this season. The Chelsea head coach is under increasing pressure after back-to-back defeats against Bournemouth and Watford, in which the Blues conceded seven goals and dropped to fifth in the Premier League table.      Despite winning the title in Conte's first season at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea have struggled this season in the league - they are 22 points behind leaders Manchester City ahead of the Monday Night Football clash with West Brom - but are still fighting in the FA Cup and the Champions League. Conte, who has contract until the summer of 2019, insists he is "totally" committed to Chelsea and believes the relationship between a club and their coach is more important than winning trophies. Chelsea head coach Antonio Conte says he remains c...

Manchester United's Jose Mourinho believes he is the best-behaved manager in the Premier League. Mourinho's touchline antics have been well documented over the years, and the Portuguese has previously clashed with football's authorities. But Mourinho says he has made a concerted effort to improve his behaviour on the sidelines, although he admits he cannot be described as "perfect" just yet. "I am fully committed to win the award this season of the best-behaved manager on the touchline," Mourinho said. "I am serious!. "There are so many awards - performance of the week, manager of the month and this and that - they should give one (to) the guy that behaves best on the touchline and it should be the fourth official to vote. "I'm pretty sure that I would win. I'm serious! I didn't create one problem to one fourth official on a touchline, apart from my red card at Southampton when I put a foot on the pitch. "I'm serious,...

Arsenal manager, Arsene Wenger, has refused to give up on leading Arsenal back to the Champions League through a top four finish. The Gunners are now six points off Champions League spots, after they lost 1-0 to Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday. Arsenal missed out on a top four place for the first time in 20 years last season and had to settle for the Europa League. They are now in the round of 32, where they will take on Swedish minnows Ostersund on Thursday. Manchester United qualified for the Champions League this season, after winning the Europa League, despite ending up sixth in the domestic league. But Wenger insists he won’t stop fighting in the league, with eight more games in the Europa League to negotiate. “It was a game we couldn’t afford to lose,” the Frenchman said. “It makes it more difficult now, but we have to fight. “Manchester United decided that once they were in the semi-final. We are far from the semi-final.”

Gary Cahill has given a frank assessment of Chelsea's current situation, admitting they are at a crossroads and need to go down the right path sooner rather than later. The Premier League champions have faced questions after losing their last two games - 3-0 at home to Bournemouth and then 4-1 at Watford on Monday. Those results have also led to further speculation over the future of head coach Antonio Conte and how much longer he will be in charge of the club. Speaking to Sky Sports ahead of Chelsea's Monday Night Football clash with West Brom, Cahill said: "We are at that road where you can either turn left or right. We are on a road where the sooner we have the opportunity to go down the right path the better, because drawing on past experiences you have that feeling, it's bubbling outside the club. "In the club we are fine in terms of a tight group and everyone is together; there are no falling outs or clashes with the manager. We are fine, but we need to get...

Former Celtic, Manchester United and Hibernian midfielder Liam Miller has died at the age of 36 following a battle with pancreatic cancer. Miller, who won 21 caps for the Republic of Ireland between 2004 and 2009, was diagnosed with cancer last year and had since been undergoing treatment in the United States and Ireland. Manchester United wrote on Twitter: "Manchester United is deeply saddened to learn of the tragic death of our former midfielder Liam Miller. We extend our condolences to his loved ones at this extremely difficult time." Miller made his professional debut for Celtic in 2000 after coming through the youth ranks at Parkhead and helped them win the Scottish Premiership title in 2004. He moved from Glasgow to Manchester United on a free transfer, making 22 appearances under Sir Alex Ferguson in two seasons - which included a spell on loan at Leeds - before moving on to Sunderland in 2006. Miller was part of the Black Cats squad that won promotion to the Premier L...

Manchester City have agreed a deal in principle to sign Shakhtar Donetsk midfielder, Fred for £44.5million this summer. The Premier League leaders tried to bring the 24-year-old in January, but the Ukrainians refused to part with the player. However, both clubs remained in talks, even after the winter transfer window closed. It is believed that all parties have agreed on the terms of the move, although nothing is officially signed. Fred has been determined to join City, ever since they first made their interest clear towards the end of 2017. However, Pep Guardiola was only able to sing Aymeric Laporter for £57million, also failing to land Riyad Mahrez from Leicester City.

Alexis Sanchez says Manchester United are the biggest club in England and he has joined them to “win everything”. In an exclusive interview with Sky Sports’ Thierry Henry, Sanchez said he has realised how massive United are, since he joined from Arsenal last month. “I think that Manchester United, since I was young – and I’m not just saying this because I’m here, I’m an honest guy and I never lie – I think it’s the biggest club in England. That’s what I think. “There are lots of big clubs, and having played for Arsenal, they are also one of them. It’s a huge club and I was there. “But coming here, looking at the badge, I think United have to win everything because it’s such a big club. The club crest says it all,” Sanchez said. Sanchez moved to United in a swap deal for Henrikh Mkhitaryan, though Premier League leaders Manchester City were also interested in the Chilean. But he insists he wants to win “everything” at Old Trafford. “I came here to win [things]. I left Arsenal because I...

Arsenal manager, Arsene Wenger, has compared the club’s most expensive player, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to former striker, Thierry Henry. Aubameyang moved from Borussia Dortmund to the Emirates in January for £56million and said he wanted to be like Henry, who is Gunners’ all-time leading goalscorer. The Gabon striker scored on his debut in a 5-1 win over Everton last weekend, but Wenger has urged caution. “I would say [he is like] Thierry Henry with his quality of runs, but it’s a bit too early to compare him to the best player ever who played here. “He has played one game. But it’s a good example to follow. “His finish was brilliant. His finishing is good. You don’t score by coincidence for so many years, if you score many goals. Even in five-a-side he’s able to score goals, so when the guys can repeat that at the top level it means they have that quality. “Running-wise, he’s a good example to follow. But Thierry came a bit more to the ball as well, participated more in the game,” ...

Roberto Firmino's work up front for Liverpool is the key to their style of play. MNF Extra looks at why Roberto Firmino is the hardest working forward in the Premier League as Jamie Carragher explains why his contribution for Liverpool should not be underestimated. It is not so long ago that some were wondering whether the absence of an out-and-out striker at Liverpool was going to prove a problem for Jurgen Klopp. But the Reds have outscored every team in the Premier League except Manchester City this season and it is not just because of Mohamed Salah's goals Roberto - Firmino is into double figures too. Firmino ranks among the top 10 players for combined goals and assists. The Brazilian ranks among the top 10 players in the Premier League for combined goals and assists this season and has found the net 19 times in all competitions. As Jamie Carragher explains, when coupled with the other qualities that Firmino brings to this Liverpool team, it makes for a package that Jurgen...