Real Madrid boss Rafa Benitez claims there is a campaign against him and the club

Kampusbet  ~   " Real Madrid boss Rafa Benitez claims there is a campaign against him and the club "

 

 

 

Agen SbobeT  ~    Real Madrid manager Rafa Benitez believes there is a campaign against him, the club and its president Florentino Perez.

The former Liverpool boss has been under scrutiny virtually ever since he replaced Carlo Ancelotti at the Bernabeu in the summer, with his style of play yet to win Real fans over.

There has also been speculation that Perez wants to replace the Spaniard with former boss Jose Mourinho, who only left the club in 2013.

However, Benitez is remaining defiant and believes much of the criticism levelled at him and his players this season has been unjustified.

There is a campaign against (president) Florentino (Perez), Real Madrid and me," Benitez told a news conference on Tuesday.

"Everything is criticised that can be and where not it is manipulated which anyone can see. This is particularly clear if you look at the situation from the outside."

Real face Sociedad on the back of a crushing 10-2 win over Rayo Vallecano but the result was distorted by two sendings-off for the visitors who looked strong early on and held a 2-1 lead.

Bandar Judi Online SbobeT  ~   Although they have scored freely against the more modest sides, Real have generally been unable to beat stronger opponents and a humiliating 4-0 loss to arch-rivals Barcelona last month was particularly damaging for Benitez.

Real are two points off joint leaders Barcelona and Atletico Madrid with 33 points from 16 games, but the Catalan side have a game in hand after playing in the Club World Cup.

"Everything is being magnified and I have a lot of experience coaching so I know to be distracted as little as possible," Benitez said.

"I have 24 players in the squad but when I leave out one player then it is made out that it is something personal and a load of speculation is built up. The team is a lot better than people think.

"My relationship with the players is infinitely better than what you read in the press. There is a communications department that keeps me informed. The team is doing some things well and others not so much."

Benitez said he was able to relax over Christmas which he spent with his family in northern England where he used to manage Liverpool.

"It was calm. I had a short holiday as we are playing again on the 30th," he said.

"Fortunately, the English press do not exaggerate as much and so it was relaxing with the family and concentrating on how to beat Real Sociedad and win trophies this year."

Jose Mourinho offered Real Madrid job to turn up the heat on Manchester United's Louis van Gaal

Kampusbet  ~   " Jose Mourinho offered Real Madrid job to turn up the heat on Manchester United's Louis van Gaal "

Agen MaxbeT  ~   Jose Mourinho is facing a massive dilemma after being offered an instant return to Real Madrid.

And that will turn up the heat even further on Manchester United and Louis Van Gaal who is under increasing pressure at Old Trafford.

United must move quickly or risk missing out on Mourinho who must also decide on whether to pursue the Real Madrid job - or hang on.

Mirror Sport revealed last month Real Madrid president Florentino Perez wants Mourinho to return to the Bernabeu.

And it is understood that Perez has now made a move to bring in Mourinho to replace under-pressure Rafa Benitez - and wants him in charge as quickly as possible.

Bandar Judi Online MaxbeT  ~   Mourinho would prefer the United job rather than return to Real Madrid where he left amid controversy and under a cloud two-and-a-half years ago.

But despite Mourinho being unpopular with sections of the Real Madrid fans and dressing room, Perez has remained a huge fan. Agents have now sounded out Mourinho’s camp and placed an offer on the table.

Benitez has not been a success and, despite a remarkable 10-2 win over Rayo Vallecano, is clinging on to his job as well as being aware of Real Madrid’s interest in his bitter rival Mourinho.

Mourinho made it clear after being axed by Chelsea that he wanted to get straight back into management and also made a pointed remark about staying in England.

But Real Madrid are determined to get their man and it is believed that not all of the hierarchy at Old Trafford are in favour of Mourinho because of his troublesome reputation and baggage that comes with him.

West Ham winger Michail Antonio vows to come good despite slow start to Upton Park career

Kampusbet  ~   " West Ham winger Michail Antonio vows to come good despite slow start to Upton Park career "

Agen Klik4D  ~   Michail Antonio has reassured West Ham co-owner David Gold he will come good in the Premier League.

Gold infamously retweeted a message from a prankster last month asking him to raise awareness of a person who had gone “missing” in Manchester.

The tweet was subsequently deleted when Gold realised it was a picture of Antonio, whose Hammers debut was as substitute in a 2-1 win at Manchester City in September.

Antonio has by his own admission been “rusty” since a £7million deadline-day switch from Nottingham Forest.

But the winger is now finally getting a run in the side due to injuries after making his third consecutive start in Saturday's 1-1 draw against Aston Villa.

His cross-field pass led to Aaron Cresswell’s stunning opener and the wideman is anxious to prove himself.

Asked about being determined to show his qualities to Gold, Antonio replied: “Definitely, but I take it as all banter. I didn’t take it anything seriously. He has put it up as banter and I have taken it as banter.

“One thing I have faith in is my ability. Right now I do feel a bit rusty, I need to get sharper, but I feel I will get to that point and once I do I believe I can terrorise the Premier League as well as the Championship.

Bandar Judi Online Klik4D  ~   “I am a player where I try and excite the fans and run at players. I always give 100 per cent. Right now I feel I am doing all right, but I need to do more back in the team as an attacker to get more assists and more goals.

I had quite a bit of a break but as the games are coming on I feel myself getting better and getting sharper.

“Hopefully Monday things will start building on until I start playing my game.”

West Ham host Southampton today with Slaven Bilic’s side still set to be without key man Dimitri Payet and fellow attacking wideman Victor Moses.

And Antonio is anxious the Hammers end a run of five successive draws to re-ignite their push for Europe.

He added: “Right now we are going through a bit of a draw rut but it could be worse, we could be getting no points.

We can’t complain with our form but it is about getting more goals now.”

Bottom club Villa dominated, but found old boy James Collins in fine form at the back and keeper Adrian nearly invincible.

The visitors took the lead against the run of play from Cresswell’s left-foot screamer before Villa levelled from Jordan Ayew’s penalty after Rudy Gestede was fouled.

Villa boss Remi Garde, still searching for his first win, reflected: “It’s a bit frustrating. I am sad for the players because they deserved three points.”

Jurgen Klopp admits Liverpool's win over Leicester was a relief after shaky recent form

Kampusbet  ~   " Jurgen Klopp admits Liverpool's win over Leicester was a relief after shaky recent form "

Agen TangKasneT  ~   Jurgen Klopp admitted Liverpool's narrow win over Leicester at Anfield was "very important" following their recent slump in form.

The Reds were emphatically beaten by Watford in their last outing and Klopp said it was crucial Liverpool secured a confidence-boosting 1-0 victory against high-flying Leicester.

Klopp told the BBC: "After four games with no result, that was very important today.

"Everybody knows of the quality of Leicester and what we had to do today was play simple football."

Bandar Judi Online TangKasneT  ~   Liverpool dominated possession in the first half, but failed to convert their superiority into goals.

Klopp's plans were also disrupted when Divock Origi was injured shortly before half time and he was replaced by eventual goal hero Christian Benteke.

He said: "The first half was really good and then we had to change. Christian Benteke was not warm [when he came on for Divock Origi], it's not easy to come into the game.

"We made the goal, brilliant situation where the boys showed their quality in small situations. We were never really under pressure."

Norwich complete Matt Jarvis signing from West Ham on permanent transfer following loan spell

Kampusbet  ~   " Norwich complete Matt Jarvis signing from West Ham on permanent transfer following loan spell "

Agen CasinO  ~   Norwich City have completed the permanent transfer of Matt Jarvis from West Ham.

The deal will officially go through when the winter transfer window opens on Saturday January 2 after the player signed a three-and-a-half year contract.

The 29-year-old has been on loan at the Canaries since the start of September and the deal has been made permanent after an undisclosed fee was agreed. 

Jarvis is currently sidelined through injury but is targeting a return to the side in the neat future, after scoring twice in his seven Norwich appearances so far this season.

The winger told the club's official website: "It's nice to get it done before the window opens as the Club have shown they really wanted me.

 I had a great start here and hopefully I'll be back up-and-running soon for the rest of the season.

Bandar Judi Online CasinO  ~   My first game especially was great. To get out in front of the home fans and score in a win was a perfect start which carried on for a while.

"Unfortunately I then picked up an injury but I'm desperate to get back fully-fit, and back playing. To get the deal sorted is really nice and I'm looking forward to helping the team as soon as I can."

 

Jarvis leaves with the best wishes of West Ham.

Club chairman David Gold took to Twitter to wish Jarvis success in the future. 

He wrote: "Matt Jarvis has today completed his transfer to Norwich. Matt, we wish you every success in your new endeavours."

Swansea caretaker Alan Curtis prepared to stay in charge for the rest of the season

Kampusbet  ~   " Swansea caretaker Alan Curtis prepared to stay in charge for the rest of the season "

Agen SbobeT  ~   Caretaker boss Alan Curtis is prepared to remain in charge of Swansea until the end of the season with the club no nearer to appointing a new manager.

Despite Swansea chairman Huw Jenkins holding discussions with several candidates – including Marcelo Bielsa and Gus Poyet – since Garry Monk was sacked a fortnight ago, an appointment has not been forthcoming.

In the meantime Curtis, who has served the club for over 40 years, has overseen an improvement in ­performances despite Swansea’s slide into the relegation zone.

The 61-year-old admits a move to bring in former Athletic Bilbao boss Bielsa appears to have “cooled” and he is set to be in charge for the Boxing Day fixture against West Brom and Monday’s meeting with Crystal Palace.

Bandar Judi Online SbobeT  ~   Should Curtis oversee two positive results he may find himself tasked with continuing to lead the Welsh club, and is ready to do so until the summer if necessary.

“I will carry on for as long as it takes, if it’s the weekend or a little bit further,” said Curtis.

“We will do what it takes for the club to continue to show the improvement on the field and, perhaps more ­importantly, pick up points.

“Part of the equation would be if we were to win a couple of games and the performances carry on being decent, then probably the need to appoint a new manager is not so great.

“Things can move very quickly and it may be that it is not long before someone is appointed, but there is no point rushing it. It has to be the right man.”

West Ham grant club captain Mark Noble testimonial match as he closes in on 350th appearance

Kampusbet  ~   " West Ham grant club captain Mark Noble testimonial match as he closes in on 350th appearance "

Agen MaxbeT  ~   West Ham have announced that club captain Mark Noble has been awarded a testimonial match.

The Hammers skipper has played almost 350 matches for the club, and will run out at Upton Park for the match, which will be contested by the Irons and a West Ham all-star side, on Easter Monday 28 March 2016 at 2pm. 

All proceeds from the fixture will be donated to charity. It will be a final opportunity for may fans to see some of their heroes from yesteryear on the Boleyn Ground turf.

Noble, who first joined the club as a 13-year-old, says he can't wait for the match.

“I am hugely honoured and grateful that the Board have awarded me a Testimonial match at the Boleyn Ground,” Noble said.

This is where I come from and this is my Football Club, so I can think of nothing better than having my Testimonial at the stadium where I have laughed, cheered and cried, both as a fan and as a player.

“Everyone knows how much West Ham United means to me, so to have the opportunity to share a pitch with the players who I have grown up with will be fantastic – and it will be even more special to have my family, friends and so many Hammers fans watching from the stands.

Bandar Judi Online MaxbeT  ~   “I am pleased and proud to say we will be donating all the proceeds from my Testimonial match to three charities that mean a huge amount to me – Richard House Children’s Hospice, Help for Heroes and the DT38 Foundation.”

Joint-chairmen David Gold and David Sullivan have hailed Noble's contribution to the claret and blue over the years, and say he fully deserves the recognition.

Mark is the modern-day ‘Mr West Ham’, so it was natural that he would be granted a Testimonial at the end of what will be his 12th season as a member of the first-team squad,” they said.

“Mark has been a tremendous servant to West Ham United both on the field and off it and this Testimonial match is recognition of the long and dignified career he has enjoyed in a Claret and Blue shirt.

“It is a mark of the man that he will donate all the proceeds from this match to three charities that mean so much to him and to everyone at the Club.

“The match has been scheduled for the afternoon of Easter Monday, meaning fans of all ages can come along to the Boleyn Ground and see some of their heroes in action one last time.

"We are sure Mark and his Testimonial Committee will ensure it is a truly ‎memorable event‎.”

Manchester United star Bastian Schweinsteiger dines with girlfriend Ana Ivanovic as suspension continues

Kampusbet  ~   " Manchester United star Bastian Schweinsteiger dines with girlfriend Ana Ivanovic as suspension continues "

Agen Klik4D  ~   Manchester United midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger took advantage of his time off the field to dine out with his tennis star girlfriend Ana Ivanovic.

The high-profile couple headed out into Manchester along with around 300,000 other revellers on Mad Friday, report the Manchester Evening News.

 

But the pair didn’t dine at the favourite haunt of most footballers, San Carlo – but headed across the road to restaurant 47 King Street West.

Germany international Schweinsteiger has been spotted out and about in the city regularly since joining the Reds from Bayern Munich in the summer.

Bandar Judi Online Klik4D  ~   And it seems his girlfriend, Serbian tennis player and former world number one, Ana Ivanovic, is also familiarising herself with Manchester after making her new home in the city.

The 31-year-old footballer looked happy – despite him currently serving a three-match on-field suspension – as the couple left the King Street West restaurant.

Schweinsteiger accepted a violent conduct charge from the Football Association after lashing out at West Ham defender Winston Reid during the 0-0 draw with the Hammers earlier this month.

The ban means he has been unavailable for the majority of United’s hectic festive period, with him missing Saturday’s humiliating 2-1 defeat against Norwich City, as well as United’s matches against Bournemouth last week, and the Boxing Day fixture at Stoke.

Arsenal squad congratulate Gunners fan AP McCoy on his SPOTY lifetime achievement award

Kampusbet  ~   " Arsenal squad congratulate Gunners fan AP McCoy on his SPOTY lifetime achievement award "

Agen TangKasneT  ~   Arsenal players past and present have recorded a congratulatory message for Gunners fan AP McCoy as he prepares to recieve a lifetime achievement award at tonight's BBC Sports Personality of the Year awards.

The 20-time champion jockey is being honoured at the ceremony in Belfast this evening following his retirement earlier this year.

Arsenal greats Martin Keown and Ray Parlour offer their congratulations in the video, as do current players Theo Walcott and Nacho Monreal, while manager Arsene Wenger calls the Northern Irishman's accomplishments "inspirational". 

McCoy rode over 4,300 winners during his 20-year professional career before retiring in April this year.

He won the main award in 2010 after winning the Grand National for the first time in 15 attempts.

On being chosen as the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement award, the Northern Irishman said: “To be receiving the Lifetime Achievement award is a big highlight of what has been an incredible year.

"It’s a huge honour and I’m thrilled to be accepting it so close to home in Belfast. I'm looking forward to what will be a very special night.”

Bandar Judi Online TangKasneT  ~   And it's not the first time that the Gunners squad have sent their best wishes to the Northern Irishman, as they sent him another video message on his retirement earlier this year.

At Arsenal, we are inspired by that kind of dedication, quality and consistency that you have achieved in your career. Well done."

Oxlade-Chamberlain added: "Congratulations on your retirement, AP. If anyone deserves it, it's definitely you.

"Hopefully, if you're not riding as much, you will be able to get to the Emirates and support the boys."

The 2015 Sports Personality of the Year award show, which will be hosted by Gary Lineker, Clare Balding and Gabby Logan, will be shown live on BBC One tonight between 6:50pm and 9:00pm.

Andy Murray is the favourite to win the main award for the second time in his career after his success in 2013 following his historic Wimbledon triumph. 

He inspired Great Britain to their first Davis Cup success since 1936, winning all 11 of the matches he played in over four rounds, including three in November's final against Belgium.

Joel Matip tops Sunderland transfer wish-list with Sam Allardyce given free reign to overhaul squad

Kampusbet  ~   " Joel Matip tops Sunderland transfer wish-list with Sam Allardyce given free reign to overhaul squad "

Agen CasinO  ~   Joel Matip tops Sam Allardyce’s New Year wish-list, writes Neil Moxley in the Sunday People.

The Schalke stopper has six months left on his contract and Sunderland’s spies have been watching the Cameroonian repeatedly during the past month.

Allardyce has been given a free hand to re-model the Black Cats after sporting director Lee Congerton was placed on gardening leave this week.

Sunday People Sport understands that Allardyce will have to raise his own funds but he is wasting no time lining up the men he wants to spearhead the club’s push for Premier League survival.

Along with Matip, he has also sent scouts to see Utrecht striker Sebastien Haller and Hoffenheim forward Kevin Volland.

Sunderland owner Ellis Short is refusing to throw cash at the problem, causing Allardyce to be creative in the market.

Bandar Judi Online CasinO  ~   And that means Jermain Defoe, Steven Fletcher and Seb Larsson will be in the firing line - allowed to move if the club can save their wages.

The three loanees - DeAndre Yedlin (Tottenham), Ola Toivonen (Rennes) and Yann M’Vila (Rubin Kazan) - could all be sent back if Sunderland believe they could utilise their wages elsewhere.

Of that trio, only M’Vila has impressed Allardyce and the midfield strongman could be spared a return to Russia.

Allardyce already knew he was heading up the transfers along with chief executive Margaret Byrne, after Congerton was shown the door at the Stadium of Light this week.

The People understands he cleared his desk earlier this week after been placed on gardening leave.

Claudio Ranieri reveals Leicester bosses were preparing for prospect of RELEGATION this term

Kampusbet  ~   " Claudio Ranieri reveals Leicester bosses were preparing for prospect of RELEGATION this term "

Agen SbobeT  ~   Claudio Ranieri has revealed Leicester’s owners were preparing for the ­prospect of relegation this season – and he had agreed to remain Foxes’ boss even if they plunged into the ­Championship.

After masterminding an extraordinary rise to the top of the Premier League, Ranieri has divulged details of the job ­interview which led to his surprise summer appointment – and said that vice-chairman Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha asked whether he would stay if the club were ­relegated.

Ranieri, sacked as Greece manager after a dismal defeat by the Faroe Islands in his previous job, says Aiyawatt and his father, the Leicester chairman Vichai, voiced their plans to take Leicester into the higher echelons of the Premier League but also offered him long-term ­commitment if the wheels came off.

With Leicester requiring victory at Everton on Saturday to confirm top spot at Christmas, Ranieri said: “I didn’t believe when I signed my contract that in December we would be top of the league. 

But two things were very, very fantastic for me.

“One was to hear from my owner that he wanted, in the next two years, to maintain Leicester in the Premier League, then to grow and try to achieve the top places.

“The other is that when the son asked me, ‘If everything goes wrong, you stay with us in the Championship?’ and I said, ‘Yes, I will stay here’.

This was amazing because there was a balance – there was a big project but also they wanted me to stay even if everything went wrong. It was important for me to understand this philosophy.”

Bandar Judi Online SbobeT  ~   Ranieri, 64, says he had only ever received similar long-term commitment once in his long managerial career, in one of his first jobs at Cagliari.

He explained: “When I was young at Cagliari, we won Serie C, we won Serie B and we arrived in Serie A. But the first year was like Leicester last season – at the end of the first half, we were not just down but down-down.

“Nobody believed in us, a lot of journalists asked the chairman, ‘OK, you sack Claudio? He won Serie C and B but not in Serie A’. But he told me, ‘Don’t worry Claudio, we went with you from C to B to A, we’d go with you from A to B to C’.

Leicester’s miraculous form has led their most famous fan Gary Lineker to claim he will present Match of the Day in just his ­underpants if Ranieri’s men win the title.

But on being told this, Ranieri replied: “Oh that’s not good. Because when Roma won Serie A once, there was a nice girl who did the same and I think that is much better...”

Ranieri is without the suspended Robert Huth for the trip to ­Goodison as Leicester bid to extend their unbeaten Premier League away run to 12 matches. But he praised Huth’s central-­defensive partner, skipper Wes Morgan, claiming that the former Nottingham Forest man has become one of the best in the top flight.

He said: “I’m so surprised by my captain.

“One thing is to watch him on TV, another thing is to watch him train and in matches because he is good, he is strong, he is tall, he is big, he is fast – he is unbelievable.

“He is a very great central defender – one of the best centre-backs in the Premier League.”

Arsenal midfielder Mathieu Flamini named as one of NME's 'People of the Year'

Kampusbet  ~   " Arsenal midfielder Mathieu Flamini named as one of NME's 'People of the Year' "

Agen MaxbeT  ~   Arsenal midfielder Mathieu Flamini has been named as one of NME magazine's 'People of the Year'.

The music publication has listed Frenchman Flamini alongside names such as former Oasis songwriter Noel Gallagher and pop superstar Taylor Swift.

His tenacious performance in front of the Gunners' back four has won him many plaudits, but it is his actions off the field which have caught the eye of the compilers of the list. 

Flamini owns his own biochemical company, aiming to provide alternative fuel to oil, which he kept secret from 2008 up until last month.

Bandar Judi Online MaxbeT  ~   He admits he has always been concerned by climate change, and his firm GF Biochemicals now employs 400 workers and operates in a market worth around £20billion.

Speaking to Sideline Football, Flamini revealed: "I've always been very close to nature and always very concerned by climate change and all the problems with the environment.

"We knew it was going to be difficult because many people tried [to do this] and many people failed. But we started with a bit of hope and after seven years we are growing."

Steve McClaren's former club FC Twente banned from European competition for three years

Kampusbet  ~   "  Steve McClaren's former club FC Twente banned from European competition for three years "

Agen Klik4D  ~   The Dutch Football Association has banned FC Twente, the former club of Steve McClaren, from European competitions for three years.

Twente have been slapped with the suspension after violating transfer regulations.

The Royal Netherlands Football Association accused the 2010 Eredivisie champions of “deliberately misleading” them in a deal to sell player transfer fee rights to an outside investor.

FIFA has banned third-party ownership of players because of their risk to the integrity of the game - effectively turning it into a money-making business.

But Twente have breached that rule after it was revealed that they had sold transfer fee rights for seven of their players to a Malta-based company named Doyen Sports Investments.

Doyen are a well-known name in football, as they own Neymar's image rights while they also made a profit from Eliaquim Mangala's transfer to Manchester City in 2014.

Bandar Judi Online Klik4D  ~    Twente qualified for the Champions League four years in a row between 2008 and 2012, but they will no longer be able to take part in the competition should they once again qualify.

The ban also applies for the Europa League, which they are not currently playing in.

Twente confirmed that they would not be appealing the charges.

A statement read: “The core of our football club is being hit hard. In coming seasons we will not be allowed to participate in European football, which hurts. 

“However we respect the opinion of the license commission and accept the penalties imposed. We therefore draw no appeal.”

Pele, Zico and Tostao call on Brazilian football's president to stand down amid corruption claims

Kampusbet  ~   " Pele, Zico and Tostao call on Brazilian football's president to stand down amid corruption claims "

Agen TangKasneT  ~   Pele is among 127 of Brazil's biggest names who have called on the president of the country's football confederation (CBF) to resign.

"We demand the definitive resignation of Marco Polo Del Nero and his directors, followed by free and democratic elections for command of the CBF," said a statement.

Del Nero was charged by U.S. prosecutors on Dec. 3 with participating in schemes designed to solicit and receive millions of dollars in bribes and kickbacks to sell media and marketing rights for soccer tournaments and matches.

His predecessor as CBF president, Jose Maria Marin, is jailed while awaiting trial on similar charges in an investigation by prosecutors in the United States and Switzerland into corruption in world soccer's governing body FIFA that has led to 41 indictments so far.

Bandar Judi Online TangKasneT  ~   Ricardo Teixeira, another former president of the CBF from 1989 to 2012 and a former FIFA executive committee member, was also charged.

The letter, signed by soccer greats Pele, Zico and Tostao, said meaningful elections were impossible under the current CBF statutes it called "illegal and immoral."

The signatories, which included singer-songwriter Chico Buarque, actor Wagner Moura, and Walter Salles, director of hit movies Central Station and The Motorcycle Diaries, called for a thorough investigation into corrupt dealings inside Brazilian football.

"We call on the Attorney General, the Federal Police and the Inland Revenue to not permit any impunity for those who have corrupted or want to continue corrupting (Brazilian) football," the letter said.

Manchester City won't have it easy against Dynamo Kiev, warns Txiki Begiristain

Kampusbet  ~   "  Manchester City won't have it easy against Dynamo Kiev, warns Txiki Begiristain "

Agen CasiNo  ~   Manchester City chief Txiki Begiristain has warned Dynamo Kiev will be difficult for the Blues.

City fans are happy at being paired with Dynamo in the last 16 of the Champions League after drawing Barcelona in the previous two seasons. 

But Dynamo knocked City out of the Europa League in 2011 in the only time they have met and Begiristain was keen to dampen the euphoria around the draw. 

He claims Sergei Rebrov's side, who finished second behind Chelsea in their group, will pose a stern test for City as they bid to reach the quarter-finals for the first time in their history.

It's never easy," said City's director of football. "They've shown they have a good side by beating Porto and drawing with Chelsea.

"It's going to be difficult for us, but the most important thing is that we show we're improving in this competition and we'll fight to get to the quarters.

"The weather sometimes doesn't help, but we have to be ready. At least we play in England - it's not the same, but it's close. We're ready to try and improve in this competition and grow."

Bandar Judi Online CasiNo  ~   City's 2-1 aggregate defeat four years ago was memorable for a couple of classic Mario moments and Balotelli had to come in the first leg in Kiev, which Roberto Mancini's side lost 2-0, because he was allergic to the grass.

The controversial Italian striker was then sent off in the return at the Etihad for a karate kick on Goran Popov.

City supporters are angry they cannot attend the first leg on February 24 because UEFA have ordered that Kiev must play behind closed door s due to their fans' racist behaviour. 

The move will only increase City fans' dislike of UEFA and they experienced the same situation in Russia last season when CSKA Moscow's supporters were banned, yet hundreds still managed to get into the stadium.

Begiristain claims City must focus on events on the pitch and not underestimate Dynamo.

"They are a strong side," said the Spaniard. "They will play football and it's 11 v 11.

"It's going to be tough. They will want to show people they're strong, that they are fighting for something. They're in the last 16 so we know they are good.

"We are getting experience, which is important. We are improving."

Branislav Ivanovic hoping improved form can earn him a new contract at Chelsea

Kampusbet  ~   "  Branislav Ivanovic hoping improved form can earn him a new contract at Chelsea "

Agen SbobeT  ~   Branislav Ivanovic is hoping a Chelsea revival will boost his chances of staying at Stamford Bridge.

The Serbian defender’s contract runs out at the end of the season and he has yet to be offered a new deal.

Ivanovic – who will be 32 in February – acknowledged that his start to the season reflected the indifferent performances of the team.

But a 2-0 Champions League win over Porto lifted morale and boosted confidence ahead of tomorrow night’s clash with high-flying Leicester at the King Power stadium.

I know I didn’t start the season well but I am back," said Ivanovic.

“I hope the results will be good for the team. In that case I will be good as well. I hope and I think we will have time to speak about my future. “

He also knows that at Leicester he will be up against the front man who has been the sensation of the season – Jamie Vardy.

Bandar Judi Online SbobeT  ~   “He is doing really well. His confidence is high, “ said Ivanovic. “ The good thing about him is he never stops. He is always in movement which for a defender is very difficult to stop.”

Ivanovic then joked about one way to subdue Vardy. Asked if he would have to kick him, he laughed and said:” If this helps – yes! 

"Some of the strikers don’t like it when you kick. You kill their confidence. Vardy at this moment is running a lot and it is making the space for the other players as well.”

And Ivanovic is convinced the season can still be a fruitful one for the defending Premier League champions. “I think this season – as every season here – is so long. The good thing about us is we can still change it. We can make a good season."

Fellow defender Cesar Azpilicueta accepted that Chelsea must show more defensive resilience and have been working on how to plug a leaky defence.

“Something had to change," said Azpilicueta. “We were letting in two goals a game ad you cannot keep asking the strikers to score three goals."

Mark Hughes says Gary Neville is lucky to get Valencia job: "It's not what you know it's who you know"

Kampusbet  ~   "  Mark Hughes says Gary Neville is lucky to get Valencia job: "It's not what you know it's who you know "

Agen MaxbeT  ~   Mark Hughes believes an old pals act landed former Manchester United team-mate Gary Neville the coveted manager's job at Valencia.

The La Liga outfit made a surprise move for Neville, who makes his debut in a crucial Champions League qualifier against Lyons tonight.

Stoke boss Hughes, who played with Neville at Old Trafford for three years in the early 1990s, says the move to the Mestalla was forged closer to home in Manchester.

Valencia owner Peter Lim and Neville are pals as a result of their stake in FA Cup giant-killers Salford City.

Hughes has no qualms with the friendly leg-up, but warns Neville has to get grips with all things Spanish if he is to make a mark.

The Stoke boss added: "There is a reason Gary is getting the opportunity he is getting, because of the ownership."

"Sometimes it's not what you know it's who you know that gives you a foot in the door. I am pleased he has gone ahead and grasped it. Why wouldn't he?

Bandar Judi Online MaxbeT  ~   It ticks a lot of boxes as a coach and manager, he's abroad, they're going to be in the Champions League, if he does well, that will enhance his career.

"Those are the things he will have to understand, the culture of the place as well. There are a lot of elements you have to factor in."

Neville cut his coaching teeth as part of Roy Hodgson's coaching set-up with England and reckons jumping in with both feet holds no fears

“I don’t know if it’s dangerous but I don’t feel anxious at all,” he said.

“Maybe that’s good, maybe that’s bad. I don’t know as I’ve never been in this position before.

“Obviously I’ve been a coach with England and I don’t feel anxious before England games either. 

Maybe I did as a player a little bit but as a coach I’ve never felt that way working under Roy Hodgson with England and I don’t feel that way today.”

Glen Hoddle: "Manchester City lack quality in depth"

Kampusbet  ~   " Glen Hoddle: "Manchester City lack quality in depth "

Agen Klik4D  ~   Glenn Hoddle has claimed that Manchester City did not do good enough business in the summer transfer window to ensure that they have adequate cover when key players are missing through injury.

City face Borussia Monchengladbach in their final Champions League group game on Tuesday evening as they look to pip Juventus to the top of Group D, and though Yaya Toure have returned to the side after injury, Manuel Pellegrini is still without stars such as Sergio Aguero and Vincent Kompany.

Without key players, City have slipped from the top of the Premier League table and have lost three of their last five matches in all competitions, and Hoddle believes that they did not sign well enough in the summer to boast the necessary strength in depth within their squad.

Bandar Judi Online Klik4D  ~   "For me, with [David] Silva and Aguero not playing and Kompany and Toure hving been missing, without that spine the club not bought well," Hoddle told BT Sport.

"They have bought well with the top, top players that they have got, they have been magnificent. But I saw them against Stoke City and the players that are just on the periphery that have got to come in at times when these guys are injured are just not good enough."

City will win Group D if they beat Monchengladbach and Juventus fail to win against Sevilla in the group's other fixture on Tuesday.

Sir Alex Ferguson on Cristiano Ronaldo's house: "It was made for the best player in the world"

Kampusbet  ~   "  Sir Alex Ferguson on Cristiano Ronaldo's house: "It was made for the best player in the world "

Agen TangKasneT  ~   Sir Alex Ferguson believes Cristiano Ronaldo's house was "made for the best player in the world, there's no doubt about that".

The former Manchester United manager gave Ronaldo his big break in football, bringing him to Old Trafford from Sporting Lisbon in 2003.

He developed into one of the world's best players at United, scoring 118 times in 292 appearances and playing a huge role in the club winning nine trophies during his six seasons there.

Ferguson and Ronaldo retained a strong relationship following the Portuguese's transfer to Real Madrid in 2009 and he recently went for dinner at his house in Spain.

"I've never known anyone like him, honestly," Ferguson told business students at Stanford University in California.

Bandar Judi Online TangKasneT  ~   "The gym is about half the size of this [pointing to the Stanford School of Business lecture hall], he's got everything in it.

"He's got two pools; a hot pool and a cold pool. He's got an ice room at minus 160 degrees where he goes in for 10 minutes after every game. It's just unbelievable."

Ronaldo is the current holder of the FIFA Ballon d'Or and is up for the 2015 award alongside Barcelona rivals Lionel Messi and Neymar.

He is, however, an outsider to hold on to the gong, with Messi the clear favourite to win the award for the fifth time.

Louis van Gaal says: "I don't know why fans shout attack, attack, attack" after Man United's latest bore draw

Kampusbet  ~   " Louis van Gaal says: "I don't know why fans shout attack, attack, attack" after Man United's latest bore draw "

Agen Casin(_)  ~    Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal was left confused at fans chanting for his side to attack more during their draw with West Ham.

The Red Devils drew for the third game in succession as they failed to find a way past the injury-hit Hammers , who also had a host of chances themselves. 

They have now played in six goalless encounters this term with fans showing their frustrations throughout.

And Van Gaal accepts they need to do more with the decent opportunities they get during the game after having a staggering 21 shots on goal and hitting the target just once.

"I am pleased with the performance but when you create that many chances you have to score," said the Dutchman.

Scoring is not only about composure but also a lot of luck, in my opinion. I'm not so worried but we need to get over this period.

Bandar Judi Online Casin(_)  ~   "My players created a lot more chances than in recent matches but we didn't do the most important aspect of football.

"I don't understand that they are shouting attack, attack, attack because we are the attacking team and not West Ham United."

United lost Morgan Schneiderlin and Paddy McNair to injuries during the Old Trafford stalemate.

Schneiderlin limped off just before the break with a hip problem before McNair failed to return after half-time, replaced by debutant Guillermo Varela. 

With a crunch Champions League tie against Wolfsburg coming up in midweek, Van Gaal conceded both may miss out.

"I hope they can play on Tuesday but it's a big question mark."

Capital One Cup semi-final dates revealed with Liverpool heading to Stoke on January 5

Kampusbet  ~   "  Capital One Cup semi-final dates revealed with Liverpool heading to Stoke on January 5 "

Agen SbobeT  ~    The dates of the Capital One Cup semi-finals have been announced - with Stoke City set to host Liverpool on January 5.

The Reds emphatically booked their place in the last four of the competition on Wednesday as they hammered Southampton 6-1, with a fit-again Daniel Sturridge finding the net twice.

 

On a hugely pleasing night for boss Jurgen Klopp, young striker Divock Origi netted his first goals for his new club as he hit a hat-trick to add to Jordon Ibe's second ever goal for the Reds.

The reward for Klopp's side is a two-legged showdown with Mark Hughes' men who eased past Sheffield Wednesday 2-0 on Tuesday.

Bandar Judi Online SbobeT ~   The Potters will now host Liverpool on Tuesday January 5 in an 8pm kick-off, with the return leg later that month on the 26th.

In the other semi-final, Premier League leaders Manchester City will head to Goodison Park as they meet Everton on January 6, in another 8pm kickoff.

Manuel Pellegrini's men breezed past Championship side Hull City 4-1 at the Etihad on Tuesday, while Roberto Martinez's charges brushed aside Middlesbrough 2-0 at the Riverside.

City will host the Toffees on January 27, with the final set to take place on Sunday February 28th.

Aston Villa's Jack Grealish facing anxious wait to see if he will be given senior team recall

Kampusbet  ~   "  Aston Villa's Jack Grealish facing anxious wait to see if he will be given senior team recall "

Agen MaxbeT  ~    Jack Grealish will learn on Tuesday if he is line for a recall for bottom club Aston Villa at Southampton this weekend.

The starlet, 20, was banished to the club's development squad by new boss Remi Garde after going out drinking following Villa's 4-0 thrashing at Everton, where he was subbed.

The midfielder trained with the club's kids last week and was omitted from their latest loss at home to Watford.

But Grealish was also left out of Villa's U21 game on Monday night at home to Blackburn Rovers.

And MirrorSport understands Garde is due to speak to Grealish on Tuesday when the first team return to training. 

Bandar Judi Online MaxbeT  ~   The squad were in on Sunday after the Watford loss but Grealish attended a Junior Villains fan event at Dudley Zoo instead.

The England prospect took his parents and sisters to the zoo and spent over an hour posing for photographs and signing autographs.

He is now waiting to learn if he will be available for Garde's squad this weekend.

Adama Traore, signed from Barcelona in the summer for £7million, did little to push his first team prospects with the U21s on Monday.

He showed pace and skill but little end product against Rovers.

Liverpool and Everton to battle it out for Stoke goalkeeper Jack Butland

Kampusbet  ~    " Liverpool and Everton to battle it out for Stoke goalkeeper Jack Butland "

Agen Klik4D  ~   Mersey rivals Liverpool and Everton are ready for a transfer tug-of-war for Stoke keeper Jack Butland, writes Steve Bates in the Sunday People. 

Both Merseyside clubs have identified the 22-year-old England star as the keeper they want - even though the youngster could cost up to a staggering £17million next summer. 

That's the kind of valuation Stoke are believed ready to slap on Butland who is being tipped for the very top after several outstanding early season performances for Mark Hughes' stars. 

Anfield and Goodison scouts have been watching Butland regularly - and it's thought both clubs are ready to bid for the six foot five inch Bristol-born star. 

Butland cost Stoke a reported £3.5million when he joined from Birmingham in 2013. 

And he's held in such high esteem at the Britannia Stadium Hughes allowed Asmir Begovic to join Chelsea last summer and promoted Butland. 

And since bursting into the first team and becoming England number two to Joe Hart this season, his value has soared

Bandar Judi Online Klik4D  ~    Everton boss Roberto Martinez sees Butland as the long-term replacement for current number one Tim Howard who will be 37 next March. 

And although the fee would be a massive outlay for a young inexperienced goalkeeper Everton are ready to splash the cash with many coaches in the game believing Butland is going to be a major star. 

With Chelsea set to return for Everton's £35million-rated England defender John Stones in the summer and Premier League club's set to profit from the new £5.5billion TV deal which kicks in next season, the Toffees could easily afford to spend big on Butland. 

So too could Liverpool who are expected to hand new boss Jurgen Klopp funds to re-shape the squad in the summer. 

Some critics view current Kop keeper Simon Mignolet as a weak link and the Belgian star - signed from Sunderland for £9million two years ago - was at fault for Bordeaux's goal in Liverpool's 2-1 Europa League win in midweek. 

But Stoke have ambition themselves and although they don't have the pedigree of the Mersey rivals Potters boss Hughes will fight hard to keep Butland on board.

Arsenal's Mathieu Flamini admits he has a point to prove to the fans during Francis Coquelin injury lay-off

Kampusbet  ~    " Arsenal's Mathieu Flamini admits he has a point to prove to the fans during Francis Coquelin injury lay-off  "

Agen TangKasneT  ~    Mathieu Flamini admits he must prove himself all over again to Arsenal fans.

The Gunners could not even give the midfielder away last summer as he refused to join Galatasaray on a free transfer.

But now the Frenchman has been given a second – some would say third – chance to re-establish himself as the team’s anchorman for the next three months during Francis Coquelin’s injury absence.

Flamini, now 31, walked out on Arsenal in 2008 to join AC Milan then rejoined two years ago, but has failed to hold down a regular place.

He said: “I have a chance to be back in the team and I will try to prove every game that I can be in the team. The season is always long, so it’s part of the game. 

"Sometimes you have to accept being on the bench and sometimes you get a chance to prove you can still play for Arsenal.

“If you don’t play every week for an athlete, it’s not easy because the more games you have in your legs the better you become. You gain in confidence and you become better physically, so the possibility to play game after game is going to be good for me.”

Flamini’s chance has come because of Arsenal’s crippling injury list which has ruled out Coquelin, Mikel Arteta, Jack Wilshere, Theo Walcott, Danny Welbeck and Tomas Rosicky.

Bandar Judi Online TangKasneT  ~    Gunners boss Arsene Wenger can see some light at the end of the tunnel with fit-again Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain set to return to the bench at Norwich on Sunday.

And Flamini believes Arsenal can keep their season alive by completing their Champions League fightback by winning at Olympiakos as well as maintaining a title challenge.

The Gunners found themselves in a similar situation last season when they had to win 3-0 at Monaco after a disastrous first leg defeat and just missed out.

But Flamini, who helped them beat Dinamo Zagreb to set up a final day showdown in Athens on December 9, believes they can pull it off this time round.

He added: “We know we must go to Olympiakos and win with a two-goal difference. It's not going to be easy, but I think we have the quality to do it.

“Obviously we can do it, but also it’s not going to be easy because it is a good team and it is going to be a great atmosphere over there, but I think we have the team spirit to do it.

“It’s important to learn from our mistakes. We made a similar mistake last year with Monaco, but we have learned from it and we must make sure not to do the same this year.

“This team has an enormous potential. The quality is very impressive and also we have a big squad which is giving us the possibility to play every single game in the Premier League, Champions league and the cup competitions.

“I think there is a huge potential, now we have to demonstrate it on the pitch.”

Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney wanted to become the face of Chinese football - report

Kampusbet  ~    Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney wanted to become the face of Chinese football - report

Agen Casin()  ~   Manchester United star Wayne Rooney is wanted as the face of a revamped Chinese Super League. 

The England skipper, 30, has reportedly been the subject of an approach, despite still having three years left on his deal at Old Trafford, reports the Sun.

 

But fresh from a new £830million TV deal, the CSL are reportedly eyeing a bona-fide world superstar to lead the league into a new era.

The hope is that a superstar like Rooney, would tempt others to do likewise.

The Chinese government have been making a major effort to raise football's profile across the country, with a number of former Premier League .

Bandar Judi Online Casin()  ~   Players - including Robinho, Tim Cahill and Demba Ba already plying their trade in the league.

Ex-England boss Sven Goran Eriksson is also working in China as manager of Shanghai SIPG, while ex-Brazil boss Luiz Felipe Scolari is coach of champions Guangzhou Evergrande. 

Rooney missed Man United's 2-1 win over Watford at the weekend through illness and hasn't been at his best so far this season, scoring just twice in 11 Premier League games. 

However his star continues to shine bright on the world stage while it's said that his advisors are considering all options ahead of what would likely be his final major contract.

Real Madrid were too attacking, claims Rafa Benitez after Barcelona run riot at the Bernabeu

Kampusbet  ~    Real Madrid were too attacking, claims Rafa Benitez after Barcelona run riot at the Bernabeu

Agen SbobeT  ~   Real Madrid were humiliated at home to Barcelona because they tried to be too attacking, according to Rafa Benitez.

Barcelona stormed to a 4-0 win at the Bernabeu. Luis Suarez scored a superb brace while Neymar and Andres Iniesta also found the back of the net in an electrifying attacking display. 

Benitez spent the international break facing criticism from all quarters for his perceived defensive style of play. And if the Saturday's clasico was supposed to prove his team knew how to entertain, then it was a ploy that failed miserably. 

“We wanted to attack and win back the ball high up the field but it didn’t come off,” he said.

“We’ve made mistakes and against a team like Barca you pay for those dearly.

We’re all responsible for it not going well, now we look for unity in the group and to try and sort this out in the next game."

Bandar Judi Online SbobeT  ~   Some fans felt Benitez had been forced into picking an attacking line-up, selecting the players that Florentino Perez wanted to see in action. Benitez, though, rejected such claims.

“I try to manage the squad as best as possible," he added.

“I picked players with the quality to do better than we did.”

He continued: “When you lose in this way there is a worry as to how the players will react. We’ve paid for our mistakes.

“At half-time they were angry and at the end of the game there was little to say.

“I won’t talk about a lack of desire in my team. In the second half we’ve started really well we just lacked a reaction.”