GUARDIOLA HAILS "CLEVER" DELPH AND "HUMBLE" DE BRUYNE.

Pep Guardiola has hailed Fabian Delph for turning his career around and becoming an instant hit in the Manchester City starting XI.

Delph played at left-back for City at Chelsea on Saturday evening's 1-0 win, keeping his place after impressing against Shakhtar in the Champions League during the week.

Guardiola has had to mix up his squad following the injury to Benjamin Mendy, that could end the £52million Frenchman's season.

Delph was favoured for the left-back role and Guariola has been left overwhelmed by the level of performance received.

"The last few games Fabian Delph has played and he had an outstanding performance," Guardiola told BT Sport.
"He is a guy that doesn't lose the ball he is aggressive and clever.

"I am so happy for him after the way he played last season."

Kevin De Bruyne hit the winner for City at the home of his former club.

"Everyone is talking about Kevin de Bruyne," Guardiola said. "He makes absolutely everything.

He is the most humble guy, I am so happy for him because I know how happy he is."

Speaking to the BBC, Guardiola added: "He is good in small spaces, he is humble and clever.

"He has speed and fight and can attack through the channel. He can play in four of five positions so we are lucky."



Source: The Mirror.

CHELSEA COACH, CONTE GIVES UPDATE ON MORATA'S INJURY.

Spain have been dealt an injury blow after star striker Alvaro Morata was taken off injured during Saturday's clash with Manchester City.

With 33 minutes gone on the clock, the front man began clutching his hamstring and signalling to the break.
After trying to run it off, Antonio Conte subbed him off for Brazilian midfielder Willian in a bid to make sure the prblem wasn't exacerbated.

Conte said after the match: "It's a muscular problem. I don't think it's serious because he stopped before it could become serious"

With the international break coming for the next fortnight, the injury has come at the best possible time for Chelsea, and worst for Spain.

Spain face Albania and Israel next week in the final round of World Cup qualifying fixtures.

Morata was named in the squad for the clashes but could now be withdrawn.
Morata, who joined the club this summer from Real Madrid in a deal worth £67million deal, has settled into life with the Blues quickly.

The 24-year-old has scored seven goals in his nine appearances for the club this season, including a hat-trick against Stoke last.


Source: The Mirror.

MOURINHO REVEALS HOW HE HAS HELPED TURN AROUND FELLAINI'S OLD TRAFFORD CAREER.

Jose Mourinho has explained how he has turned Marouane Fellaini from Manchester United flop to Old Trafford hero.
Belgian midfielder Fellaini notched a brace as United thrashed Crystal Palace 4-0 - taking his season scoring to four goals.
The former Everton giant has now equalled his tally from each of the previous two season - having only managed 17 goals in four years at United.

Fellaini had been a ridiculed character after David Moyes had brought him to the club from the Toffees for £27.5m.
But his recent form has started to win over Red Devils fans with a series of important apperances.

And Portuguese boss Mourinho believes the turn of fortunes is not down to anything he had specifically done differently but instead just an innate bond.

Mourinho said: "We are all managers, we are all different, sometimes we like players others don't like, sometimes we don't like players others like, some players perform better with some of us than with others.

"And I have examples of players that didn't perform well with me and then they performed well with other managers.

"Marouane is just the fact I think he has important qualities and I try to use these qualities depending of the situation, depending of the team's needs.

"He played with me as defensive midfield player, as second striker, he played with me like today in one of the double midfield players, adapted to the needs of the team.

"He's a team player, a great character, we have a good relation and things are going really between us.

"I think only a strong character would resist the difficulties here because he had some difficult times where people didn't recognise his qualities where probably other managers didn't like so much the qualities that he has, so you have to be a strong character.

"He's a fighter, a guy with lots of pride, I'm really pleased I helped him to reach this and to change the perception the fans have now, I'm really happy for him."


Source: The Mirror.

FULL TIME AT STAMFORD BRIDGE: CHELSEA v MANCHESTER CITY.

CHELSEA 0 MANCHESTER CITY 1.

De Bruyne 67'

TEAM LIST:
Chelsea XI: Courtois; Rudiger, Christensen, Cahill; Azpilicueta, Kante, Bakayoko, Fabregas, Alonso; Hazard; Morata.

Subs: Caballero, Pedro, Moses, Kenedy, Zappacosta, Willian, Batshuayi.

Man City XI: Ederson; Walker, Stones, Otamendi, Delph; De Bruyne, Fernandinho, Silva; Sane, Gabriel Jesus, Sterling.

Subs: Bravo, Danilo, Gundogan, Mangala, Bernardo Silva, Alexander Zinchenko, Toure.

FULL TIME AT THE OLYMPIC STADIUM: WEST HAM v SWANSEA.

WEST HAM 1 SWANSEA 0.

Sakho 90'.

FULL TIME AT THE VITALITY STADIUM: BOURNEMOUTH v LEICESTER CITY.

AFC BOURNEMOUTH 0 LEICESTER CITY 0.

FULL TIME AT BET369 STADIUM: STOKE CITY v SOUTHAMPTON.

STOKE CITY 2 SOUTHAMPTON 1.

Diouf 40', Crouch 75'.

Yoshida 75'

FULL TIME AT THE HAWTHORNS: WEST BROM v WATFORD.

WEST BROM 2 WATFORD 2.

Rondon 18', Evans 21'

Doucoure 37', Richarlison 90'.

FULL TIME AT OLD TRAFFORD: MANCHESTER UNITED v CRYSTAL PALACE.

MANCHESTER UNITED 4 CRYSTAL PALACE 0.

Mata 3', Fellaini 35', 49', Lukaku 86'

TEAM NEWS:
Manchester United XI: De Gea, Valencia, Jones, Smalling, Young, Matic, Fellaini, Mata, Mkhitaryan, Rashford, Lukaku.

Subs: Romero, Bailly, Blind, Darmian, Herrera, Lingard, Martial.

Crystal Palace XI: Hennessey, Ward, Sakho, Delaney, Van Aanholt, Townsend, Milivojevic, Cabaye, Schlupp, Puncheon, Sako.

Subs: Speroni, Kelly, Riedewald, McArthur,

FULL TIME AT JOHN SMITH STADIUM: HUDDERSFIELD v TOTTENHAM.

HUDDERSFIELD 0 TOTTENHAM 4.

Kane 9', 23', Davies 16', Sissoko 90'.

TEAM NEWS:
Huddersfield XI: Lossl, Smith, Zanka, Schindler, Lowe, Hogg, Mooy, Van La Parra, Kachunga, Ince, Depoitre.

Subs: Green, Malone, Whitehead, Billing, Sabiri, Crainie, Hadergjonaj.

Tottenham XI: Lloris, Trippier, Alderweireld, Vertonghen, Sanchez, Davies, Dier, Winks, Alli, Eriksen, Kane.

Subs: Vorm, Foyth, Walker-Peters, Sissoko, Nkoudou, Son, Llorente.

"IT HURTS, BUT I'M FINE"... AGUERO THANK FANS FOR THEIR SUPPORT".

Sergio Aguero has taken to Twitter to thank fans and medical staff after returning home following his car crash, as Manchester City medical staff allayed fears over how long he will miss.

The striker broke a rib in the accident which occurred last night in Amsterdam, in which the taxi in which he was travelling collided with a lamppost.

It was originally feared that the 29-year-old would miss two months, but after being assessed, City staff are hoping he will only be absent for two-to-four weeks.

"Thank you with all my heart for the supportive messages, they really do help me in recovering," he tweeted out on Friday evening.

"The taxi I was riding made a wrong turn and crashed against a pole. It was a very heavy slam but seatbelts prevented it from being worse.

"I'd like to thank the staff of the VU University Medical Amsterdam for their care and support. Hats off to all their team.

"I'm home in Manchester after an exam by club Drs. It's a broken rib. Hurts, but I'm fine, fully focused on recovery. Thank you all!"

Aguero was assessed by club doctors on Friday and has now returned home.
City boss Pep Guardiola said he had no problem with Aguero travelling to Amsterdam for a concert just 48 hours before the Stamford Bridge clash.

Guardiola said: “Sergio, you know, had an accident, he's still in Amsterdam, and is coming back today.

“I don't know [how badly Aguero is injured], I'm not a doctor, fortunately he can come back and hopefully he can recover as soon as possible.”

Asked if he had a problem with Aguero being abroad at the time of the accident, Guardiola said: “No It was a day off.

“He cannot play tomorrow. The first impression is that he has broken a rib, but how many days he will be out, I don't know.

“I think on the day off it's important to be happy. I think the players have to rest physically and enjoy their lives. So if he wants to go there, I'm happy for him.

“I'm not the police. Of course it's a problem, I would prefer to be with [Benjamin] Mendy,[Vincent] Kompany and him. We will play with 11.”

Asked if he had spoken to Aguero, Guardiola said: “No, not yet. I was busy this morning preparing the training but I will speak with him.

I know he is okay, that is the most important thing.”
Aguero's former club Independiente wished their former striker a swift recovery with a post on the club's official twitter account.

They tweeted: "Strength and prompt recovery. Everyone at Independiente is with you in this difficult moment."

BOMB SCARE AT TOTTENHAM'S TRAINING GROUND.

A bomb disposal squad was dispatched to Tottenham Hotspur's training ground on Friday amid fears an unexploded WWII explosive was found.

Spurs staff were evacuated from the area as a result of the find.
However, it was later found that the item in question was just a piece of metal.

Bomb specialists were sent to the Enfield training base on Bullsmoor Lane shortly after 3pm to deal with the suspected device.

A handful of local residential houses were also evacuated while the bomb experts got to work.

A statement from the Met Police said: “Police in Enfield were called at approximately 15:06hrs on Friday, 29 September to Bullsmoor Lane, EN1 after a suspected WWII ordnance was uncovered in the Tottenham Hotspur training ground."

A club spokesman told The Sun: “An unidentified piece of metal was unearthed on the Training Centre site earlier this afternoon and, as a precaution, the Metropolitan Police cordoned off the surrounding area.

“The incident was cleared shortly after as the object was found to hold no danger.”


Source: The Mirror.

EPL WK 7: CHELSEA v MANCHESTER CITY PREVIEW/PREDICTION.

STAT: Pep Guardiola has faced Chelsea seven times as a manager in all competitions and failed to win any (D4 L3) in normal time; more than against any other side.

ANALYSIS: This is certainly not the time to be without your best player.
Aguero has already scored six premier league goals this season and will be missed at Stamford Bridge as his absence will give Chelsea defence a bit of relief.
However, the Citizens have enough fire power to cause the Blues some problems.
Meanwhile, after that opening day loss to Burnley on the opening day, Chelsea have not looked back. They keep improving and with great results every other week.
Expect a very cagey game.

PREDICTION: CHELSEA WIN.

DATE: 30.09.2017.

KICKOFF: 17:30.

VENUE: STAMFORD BRIDGE.

EPL WK 7: MANCHESTER UNITED v CRYSTAL PALACE PREVIEW/PREDICTION.

STAT: Manchester United have not lost in 16 Premier League meetings with Crystal Palace (W13 D3 L0).

ANALYSIS: Crystal palace have made the worst possible start to the league; having lost their opening six games.
And against Mourinho's men who doesn't look like a team ready to drop points yet, it is going to be an uphill task for the Eagles and their new Manager, Roy Hodgson.

PREDICTION: MANCHESTER UNITED WIN.

DATE: 30.09.2017.

KICKOFF: 15:00.

VENUE: OLD TRAFFORD.

EPL WK 7: BOURNEMOUTH v LEICESTER PREVIEW/PREDICTION.

STAT: Vardy has found the net three times in six league appearances against the Cherries.
Leicester have scored in seven of eight games this season.

EXPERT VERDICT: The Cherries have lost five of six Premier League contests, conceding 11 goals along the way. Leicester haven’t fared better though, having conceded one more than their Saturday's opponents, and are equally winless away from the King Power.  However, last weekend’s performance against Liverpool suggests the Foxes are improving, and with both teams wallowing in the bottom half of the table, it's going to be an end to end stuff at the Vitality stadium, but Shakespeare's charges could take the day.

PREDICTION: FIRST HALF DRAW.

DATE: 30.09.2017.

KICKOFF: 15:00.

VENUE: VITALITY STADIUM.

BARCA COULD PLAY IN THE PREMIER LEAGUE IF CATALAN INDEPENDECE IS PASSED ON SUNDAY.

Barcelona could play in the Premier League if Sunday's referendum on Catalan independence is passed, the region's sports minister has claimed.

The Spanish government has declared the vote illegal and police have seized ballot boxes. Spain's prime minister Mariano has insisted the referendum “won't happen”.

There is strong support for independence among Catalonia's 7.5m population – including from Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola - but parties loyal to Spain are boycotting the vote.

Among the many uncertainties is what will happen to the region's football clubs, including
FC Barcelona, if Catalonia becomes a new country.

Gerard Figueras, Catalonia's minster of sport, said: “In the case of independence, Catalan teams in La Liga – Barcelona, Espanyol and Girona – will have to decide where they want to play: in the Spanish league or a neighbouring country: Italy, France or the Premier League.

“Now in Spain there are teams from other countries who play in national leagues: clubs from Andorra in football and basketball. Monaco play in France, in England Welsh clubs.

I don't think that UEFA has anything against seeing another club play in a different league from their country.”

Spain have insisted Barcelona will not be allowed to play in La Liga if the illegal vote goes through.

La Liga president Javier Tebas said: “In sport, it isn't a la carte and things must be clearly stated.

It isn't easy to have an agreement and study Spanish legislation but if they (Catalan clubs) do get that, then they will not be able to play in Spain's La Liga, but I hope it doesn't come to that."

Guardiola, who has played for Catalonia's representative side, has backed independence. Speaking at a rally in June, the Manchester City manager said: “We have no other option but to vote.

We call on the international community to support us and on democrats the world over to help us to defend the rights that are threatened in Catalunya, such as the right of freedom of expression and the right to vote.”

A recent statement from Barcelona said: “FC Barcelona, in holding the utmost respect for its diverse body of members, will continue to support the will of the majority of Catalan people, and will do so in a civil, peaceful, and exemplary way."



Source: The Mirror.

MOURINHO GIVES UPDATE ON POGBA'S INJURY.

Jose Mourinho has admitted he faces being without Paul Pogba for the long term.

The Frenchman has been out since suffering a hamstring injury when he captained United during their Champions League home win against Basel earlier this month.

Mourinho has so far refused to put a timeframe on the midfielder's lay-off, but admits Pogba will be sidelined for months rather than weeks.

“[Pogba’s] injured, he cannot play tomorrow," said the Special One ahead of Saturday's clash against Crystal Palace.

"His injury is not one that I can have the hope like I can have with Valencia or Jones. With them, I have the hope to see them training and to have a positive answer [on their availability soon].

"But with long-term injuries, I don't speak about them, so Ibra, Pogba, Rojo and these players, I don't think about them."

Mourinho has told his players to remain humble when pointless and goalless Palace come to Old Trafford.

The Manchester United boss knows that his free flowing side are expected to dismantle bottom of the table Palace.

But Mourinho warned:"The mentality is important for my players. We are doing well but we also arrived home from our Champions League game in Moscow at 4am on Thursday and were not in our beds until 5am.

"The recovery is important. At times like these I look at the time we have to recover not the opponent.

"This is why the mentality of the players is important."

Despite their precarious situation Mourinho believes former England boss Roy Hodgson has enough time to turn things around at Selhurst Park.

He added: "There is a long time to go. It is just the beginning. Roy is experienced. They have good players. It's a good club and they have enough time to fulfil and reach their objectives."

"I BROKE MY RIB, NOW I'M RESTING"...AGUERO SPEAKS FROM HIS HOSPITAL BED.

Sergio Aguero has spoken for the first time since the car accident in Amsterdam that has left him nursing a broken rib.

The Manchester City striker is facing two months on the sidelines after being involved the accident on Thursday night, when the taxi in which he was travelling collided with a lampost.

Aguero spoke to Radio Metro de Argentina from his hospital bed and said: "The taxi driver did not see the curve and skid. And when he skidded, we hit him with the pole.

"I broke my rib, now I'm resting. It hurts me badly. I'll be discharged in a little while."

Aguero has since flown back to Manchester and will be assessed by the club's doctors.

The 29-year-old is set to miss 11 games during his enforced lay-off including City's trip to Chelsea tomorrow, as well as two World Cup qualifiers with Argentina.

Leonel Del Castillo, his father, told TyC Sports: "The taxi was driving very fast, Kun asked him to slow down, put on his seat belt and crashed instantly.

"He was lucky. They put him on painkillers, he was released and taken to Manchester."

A statement from City read: "Sergio Aguero will be assessed by Club doctors today after being involved in a road accident on Thursday.

"The City forward was in Holland on his day off and has sustained injuries."

Aguero was in Amsterdam to watch a concert by Colombian singer Maluma when the taxi in which he was travelling to the airport careered off the road.

Reports suggested Aguero only escaped even more serious injury because the striker was wearing a seatbelt.

Aguero's former club Independiente wished their former striker a swift recovery with a post on the club's official twitter account.

They tweeted: "Strength and prompt recovery. Everyone at Independiente is with you in this difficult moment."

Games Aguero is set to miss
v Chelsea (Premier League, Saturday)
v Peru (World Cup qualifier, Oct 6)
v Ecuador (World Cup qualifier, Oct 11)
v Stoke (Premier League, Oct 14)
v Napoli (Champions League, Oct 17)
v Burnley (Premier League, Oct 21)
v Wolves (League Cup, Oct 24)
v West Brom (Premier League, Oct 28)
v Napoli (Champions League, Nov 1)
v Arsenal (Premier League, Nov 5)
v Russia (Friendly, Nov 10)

City boss Pep Guardiola said he had no problem with Aguero travelling to Amsterdam for a concert just 48 hours before the Stamford Bridge clash.
Guardiola said: “Sergio, you know, had an accident, he's still in Amsterdam, and is coming back today.

“I don't know [how badly Aguero is injured], I'm not a doctor, fortunately he can come back and hopefully he can recover as soon as possible.”

Asked if he had a problem with Aguero being abroad at the time of the accident, Guardiola said: “No It was a day off.
“He cannot play tomorrow. The first impression is that he has broken a rib, but how many days he will be out, I don't know.

“I think on the day off it's important to be happy. I think the players have to rest physically and enjoy their lives. So if he wants to go there, I'm happy for him.

“I'm not the police. Of course it's a problem, I would prefer to be with [Benjamin] Mendy,[Vincent] Kompany and him. We will play with 11.”

Asked if he had spoken to Aguero, Guardiola said: “No, not yet. I was busy this morning preparing the training but I will speak with him. I know he is okay, that is the most important thing.”



Source: The Mirror.

EPL WK 7: WEST BROM v WATFORD PREVIEW/PREDICTION.

STATS: Watford scored only 15 goals away from home last term.
They have already set a new club record of three consecutive top-flight away victories this season, and they are seeking a fourth successive PL away win.

ANALYSIS: Watford’s 2-1 victory at Swansea was a third straight road win – the same number of away victories they recorded all of last term.

West Brom have drawn their last two home games and both teams may add another point to their tallies as a tight game looks to be on the cards.

PREDICTION: DRAW.

DATE: 30.09.2017.

KICKOFF: 15:00.

VENUE: THE HAWTHORNS.

EPL WK 7: WEST HAM v SWANSEA PREVIEW/PREDICTION.

STATS: West Ham have won just one of their opening six games.
Swansea can become the fourth team to keep a clean sheet in each of their first four away matches of a PL season, after Man Utd in 1997/98, Leicester in 2000/01 and Chelsea in 2004/05.

ANALYSIS: West Ham were poor against Tottenham before Serge Aurier’s red card and they look a short price to beat Swansea.
The Swans are unbeaten on the road this season and are yet to concede a goal in their trips to Southampton, Crystal Palace and Tottenham so it is possible they either nick a point or even three points against the unimpressive Hammers.

PREDICTION: FIRST HALF DRAW.

DATE: 30.09.2017.

KICKOFF: 15:00.

VENUE: THE OLYMPIC STADIUM.

EPL WK 7: STOKE CITY v SOUTHAMPTON PREVIEW/PREDICTION.

STATS: Saints can start a league season with a clean sheet in each of their first three away matches for the first time in their Football League history.

Southampton have failed to score in five of their seven games this term.

ANALYSIS: Southampton have been playing some decent football but their good work has been undermined by a lack of goals and they are hard to trust until they find a solution. Stoke have not fared much better they have won only one of six league games and their capitulation against Chelsea last weekend showed some weaknesses in Mark Hughes' side.

PREDICTION: A DRAW LOOK LIKELY.

DATE: 30.09.2017.

KICKOFF: 15:00.

VENUE: BET369 STADIUM.

EPL WK 7: HUDDERSFIELD v TOTTENHAM PREVIEW/PREDICTION.

STAT: Huddersfield have conceded only three goals this term.
Spurs can win their first four away trips in a league campaign for the first time since 1960/61 (W8).

ANALYSIS: Huddersfield have had a reasonably easy run of opening fixtures but they face their toughest test of the season when they host in-form Spurs. The Terriers were very organized last Saturday against Burnley and deservedly got a point.

However, David Wagner will hope to get an equally good result against Tottenham who have been so scintillating away from home.

PREDICTION: TOTTENHAM WIN.

DATE: 30.09.2017.

KICKOFF: 12:30.

VENUE: JOHN SMITH'S STADIUM.

FIVE BAYERN MUNICH STARS REVOLTED AGAINST ANCELOTTI, CLAIMS CLUB PRESIDENT.

Five Bayern Munich players had revolted against former boss Carlo Ancelotti, says club president Uli Hoeness.

Italian Ancelotti was given his marching orders by the Bavarians following their 3-0 humbling by
Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League on Wednesday evening.

Bayern have had an underwhelming start to the season, sitting third in the Bundesliga, three points off Borussia Dortmund in top spot.

And Hoeness has hinted that Ancelotti lost the dressing room at the Allianz Arena, leading to his dismissal.
"Ancelotti had five players against him," he told Sport1.

Bayern chief Karl-Heinz Rumenigge said there must be 'consequences' in the immediate aftermath of Bayern's defeat in the French capital.

And after relieving Ancelotti of his duties, he added: "Since the start of the season, the performance of the team has not met our expectations, and the match in Paris has shown clearly that we had to make conclusions.



Source: The Mirror.

AGUERO INVOLVED IN A HORROR CAR ACCIDENT, AND COULD MISS CHELSEA CLASH THIS WEEKEND.

Sergio Aguero has been involved in a serious car accident in Holland, according to reports.

The taxi in which the Manchester City striker was travelling reportedly crashed into a lamppost, with Aguero potentially suffering broken ribs.

If confirmed, Aguero faces up to two months on the sidelines and will definitely miss tomorrow's top of the table clash with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

Aguero was in Amsterdam to watch a concert by Colombian singer Maluma when the taxi in which he was travelling to the airport careered off the road.

Reports have suggested Aguero only escaped even more serious injury because the striker was wearing a seatbelt.

Aguero's former club Independiente appeared to confirm the accident, wishing their former striker a swift recovery with a post on the club's official twitter account.

They tweeted: "Strength and prompt recovery. Everyone at Independiente is with you in this difficult moment."

City have yet to comment on the alleged accident involving Aguero but if it is confirmed he is out for a prolonged spell, it is a huge blow to the Blues.
The former Atletico Madrid forward, who posted a picture of himself with singer Maluma in the back of a car on Thursday evening before the crash, has seven goals in eight appearances this season.

Maluma had previously posted a photo of the two of them on Instagram which showed the player signing one of his City shirts.

This is just the latest blow for boss Pep Guardiola, who is already reeling from the news that £52million defender Benjamin Mandy, signed from Monaco in the summer, is set to miss the rest of the season.

Mendy went down injured in the 5-0 win over Crystal Palace and it has now been confirmed he has ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament.

Aguero has been in superb form for City this season and is one goal away from equalling the club's all-time leading scoring record of 178, held by Eric Brook.


Source: The Mirror.

CRISTIANO RONALDO SHOWS OFF HIS £1.85m BUGATTI.

Cristiano Ronaldo celebrated his return to goalscoring form for Real Madrid in style - by showing off his new supercar.

Ronaldo, 32, took to Instagram to share a video of his new Bugatti Chiron, which he drove out of his garage with his son, Cristiano Jr.

The car, which is valued at around £1.85million, features a CR7 logo on the headrests.
Writing on Instagram, Ronaldo said: "New animal in the building Bugatti Chiron."

EUROPA LEAGUE FULL TIME RESULTS 28.09.2017.

Europa League Group A.
FC Astana 1 - 1 Slavia Prague
Maccabi Tel Aviv 0 - 0 Villarreal.

Europa League - Group B
Partizan Beograd 2 - 3 Dynamo Kyiv FT Skenderbeu 1 - 1 Young Boys.

Europa League - Group C
Braga 2 - 1 Istanbul Basaksehir
Ludogorets Razgrad 2 - 1 Hoffenheim.

Europa League - Group D
AC Milan 3 - 2 Rijeka
AEK Athens 2 - 2 Austria Wien.

Europa League - Group E
Everton 2 - 2 Apollon Limassol
Lyon 1 - 1 Atalanta.

Europa League - Group F
FC Sheriff 0 - 0 FC Koebenhavn
Lokomotiv Moscow 3 - 0 Zlin.

Europa League - Group G
Lugano 1 - 2 FC FCSB FT Viktoria Plzen 3 - 1 Hapoel Beer Sheva.

Europa League - Group H
BATE Borisov 2 - 4 Arsenal
FC Cologne 0 - 1 FK Crvena Zvezda.

Europa League - Group I
Konyaspor 2 - 1 Vitoria de Guimaraes
Salzburg 1 - 0 Marseille.

Europa League - Group J.
Athletic Bilbao 0 - 1 Zorya
Oestersunds FK 1 - 0 Hertha Berlin.

Europa League - Group K
Lazio 2 - 0 Zulte-Waregem
Nice 3 - 0 Vitesse

Europa League - Group L
Rosenborg 3 - 1 FK Vardar Skopje FT Zenit St. Petersburg 3 - 1 Real Sociedad

BAYERN MUNICH SACK CARLO ANCELOTTI.

Bayern Munich have sacked manager Carlo Ancelotti. The German champions were beaten 3-0 by Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League.

The Bavarians are three points off the pace in the Bundesliga and are now on the hunt for a new boss.

Ancelotti was summoned for crisis talks back in Germany today after the loss in which Edinson Cavani, Dani Alves and Neymar scored for the French giants.

A press conference has been called for this afternoon to officially announce Bayern's decision.

Bayern chief Karl-Heinz Rummenigge called for "consequences" following the Bundeliga giants' worst group stage defeat in the Champions League for 21 years.

Speaking at the club's traditional post-match banquet at the team hotel, he said: "What we saw today was not FC Bayern, I think we can all agree that.”One report in Germany today claimed the former Chelsea boss is set to be replaced by his assistant Willy Sagnol or former Borussia Dortmund coach Thomas Tuchel.

Ancelotti, who has a contract till June 2019, has also been linked with a return to his former club Milan.
The Italian was already under increasing pressure with the Bavarian giants only third in the Bundesliga after a sluggish start. They drew 2-2 at home to Wolfsburg last Friday after leading 2-0.

But Ancelotti, who was sacked by Chelsea in 2011, made six changes for the trip to the Parc des Princes and saw his side destroyed 3-0.

"It was a bitter defeat,” Rummenigge said. “One we must talk about. One we must analyse. And one from which we have to draw our consequences.

"It's important we get our act together soon and show we are Bayern Munich, a team which has made a great stir in Europe and Germany in recent years."

Ancelotti's relaxed management style has come in for criticism in the German press obsessed by events at FC Hollywood.

He succeeded Pep Guardiola last year with the task of overseeing a transiton from the treble winning team of 2013 and bring through the next generation like Kingsley Coman and James Rodriguez.

Franck Ribery, 34, and Arjen Robben, 33, were on the bench in Paris.
Asked if the team supports Ancelotti, the Dutchman said: “I will not answer that question. It was a painful defeat.”

By contrast, Paris Saint-Germain announced themselves as serious Champions League contenders with the win.

The French side lost 6-1 to Barcelona last season but have since recruited Neymar and Kylian Mbappe.

Thiago Silva said: “It was a huge win against a big team and also a great coach (Carlo Ancelotti). I believe that PSG has shown its true face. I think we deserved this win. The future looks good.”


Source: The Mirror.

FORMER PROSTITUTE WHO HAD S** WITH ROONEY, SET TO PUBLISH HER BOOK, TITLED; "THE BOOK OF TRUTHS"

Wayne Rooney could face fresh embarrassment after former escort girl Helen Wood revealed she will publish a “book of truths”.

Wood, 29, had a threesome with Rooney and her friend Jenny Thompson when the Everton striker’s wife Coleen was pregnant with their first son Kai in 2010.

And she posted a video on Wednesday confirming the release of her book next month.

She said: “So it’s 2.30 in the morning and I've just finished putting some final touches to my book which I know I said would be out two months ago but I've got that much s*** to talk about it’s taking ages.

“But it’s finally on its way. The cat’s out the bag. The book of truths will be out soon. It’s a must read for everyone.

“Hoping it’ll be on the shelves mid-Oct. Can’t sleep now, now I know how close it is to being released.”

Rooney was banned from driving for two years earlier this month and ordered to perform 100 hours of unpaid work after being charged with drink-driving.

The former Manchester United and England striker was three times over the limit when he was pulled over by police.

He was driving Laura Simpson's VW Beetle after the two had met on a night out while Coleen was abroad.

After the incident, Wood told the Daily Star on Sunday : "Coleen wouldn’t want to hear it from me, but mum to mum, I would tell her to get out.

“He’s a d***head, he’s a rat – we know what he’s like. Just be a single parent and be strong, this person is going to continue to hurt you," she continued. "A leopard never changes its spots.''


Source: The Mirror.

JOSE MOURINHO HAILS "HUMBLE" ROMELU LUKAKU.

Jose Mourinho hailed “amazing” Romelu Lukaku as he reached double figures for Manchester United in an emphatic Champions League win.

Lukaku scored twice to take his tally to 10 goals in nine games for United since his £75million summer switch from Everton, as Mourinho's side ran amok in Moscow.

Anthony Martial and Henrikh Mkhitaryan also got on the scoresheet as United maintained their 100 per start in the tournament to consolidate top spot in Group A.

Lukaku was United's match-winner once again, with boss Mourinho heaping praise on the 24-year-old striker following the explosive start to his Old Trafford career.

"It's a great achievement but it's only possible with a good team,” said Mourinho.

“Without a good team it's not possible and the team is playing well. But they are amazing numbers for Romelu. He's humble and wants to learn and improve all the time.

“I think the ambition is there and I trust he can keep performing for us.
“For the team confidence is good, because six points in two matches in the Champions League puts us in a good position.

“The last appearances of Manchester United away in the Champions League were not the best and, after one season outside, we came back with a good away performance.

“But we have to keep our feet on the ground, stay humble and follow our direction because we're having a very good start to the season.”

Lukaku said: “I just work hard with my team-mates. We need to keep going. We performed well today, but it's still early in the season and we need to improve.

“But I'm really happy with the win. I just want to win trophies, that's all - goal targets I keep to myself. I just want to win and we have to keep going on like we did now.”

CSKA boss Viktor Goncharenko said: “My plan was ruined after the first goal. United were hugely superior. The class of the opponent was so great.”



Source: The Mirror.

MICHY BATSHUAYI HAVE TAKEN A CHEEKY DIG AT DIEGO COSTA.

Michy Batshuayi posed with former teammate Diego Costa after Chelsea's win over Atletico Madrid - then took a cheeky dig at the Spaniard.

After an uneasy summer, Costa completed his £59million move from Chelsea to his former club Atletico Madrid this week. The Spain international watched from the stands as his new club lost to his former club courtesy of Batshuayi's last-minute winner.

The pair then posed for a picture alongside another former Chelsea striker - and current Atletico frontman - Fernando Torres.

Batshuayi then posted on Instagram: "Great honour to meet one of the great strikers I used to watch when I was younger... and no I'm not talking about Diego."
The Belgian posted a laughing emoji as you can see below;

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FULL TIME RESULTS 27.09.2017.

Basel 5 0 Benfica

CSKA 1 4 Man Utd

Paris SG 3 0 Bayern Mun

Anderlecht 0 3 Celtic

FK Qarabag 1 2 Roma

Atl Madrid 1 2 Chelsea

Juventus 2 0 Olympiakos

Sporting 0 1  Barcelona

HARRY KANE IS BETTER THAN AGUERO, LUKAKU AND MORATA; SAYS ALLY MCCOIST.

Harry Kane's Champions League hat-trick has seen him labelled as better than Romelu Lukaku, Sergio Aguero and Alvaro Morata.

The Tottenham striker took his tally to 11 goals in his last seven appearances when he put three past Apoel Nicosia in Europe's top tier competition on Tuesday night.

After yet again failing to score in September, the 24-year-old is more than making up for lost time and Scotland legend Ally McCoist feels their is no better forward in England.

McCoist, who scored 355 goals in 15 years at Rangers, said: " Harry Kane is absolutely remarkable.

The last two or three years he has been phenomenal.
"It broke my heart when he scored against Scotland but he just looks like he is going to score in every game he plays.

"Sergio Aguero is a terrific striker, Alvaro Morata is on fire, Romelu Lukaku has power and strength but at this moment in time I would go with Harry Kane.

"He is a player’s player. He works his socks off. Midfield players like him because he will chase lost causes and he will make an average ball look like a good one."

Tottenham fans may begin to worry that Kane's relentless goal scoring will eventually attract the likes of Real Madrid and Barcelona, but while McCoist believes he is certainly good enough to play at that level, he doesn't think Kane will follow in Gareth Bale's footsteps.

Speaking on BBC 5Live, he added: "He is good enough to play with Real Madrid and Barcelona but I’m not sure he looks like their type of centre-forward.

"Barcelona don’t really play with an out and out centre-forward, they like to play down the channels and Real Madrid are similar.

"Kane is like an old-fashioned centre-forward and is a wonderful talent. He certainly has the ability to play for those clubs but I don’t think he’s their kind of player."

A more likely destination for Kane, should he decide to leave Spurs, would be Manchester United, who have shown interest in him for the past two seasons.
And McCoist, who won 19 domestic medals during his playing career, warned that Spurs need to start winning trophies if they want to keep hold of their star man.

"Like all players, you want to win things and get medals," said the former Scotland striker. "If you can’t show your grandson a few medals then you are missing something.

"Tottenham probably had their best chance of winning the Premier League title two years ago when Leicester proved everyone wrong."

Spurs manager Mauricio Pochettino, meanwhile, said he was "in love" with Kane after his talisman's double against West Ham on Saturday and joked he should tread more carefully after this latest performance.

"Now my wife is so jealous - and his wife too," Pochettino said with a smile. "No, I think it's unbelievable. You know, it's Harry Kane.

"He has unbelievable skills in front of goal. He has something special. That is why he is one of the best.

"All the strikers that have this type of level they have something special in front of goals. They are killers. Harry has this special skill."



Source: The Mirror.

WHY GARRY NEVILLE WAS RELIEVED TO SEE DAVID BECKHAM LEAVE MAN UTD.

David Beckham's departure from Manchester United left many fans heartbroken but former team-mate Gary Neville claims he was 'relieved' to see the midfielder go.

The feted Reds No.7 moved to Real Madrid in 2003 after his infamous dressing room bust-up with manager Sir Alex Ferguson, report the
Manchester Evening News.

Fergie kicked a boot into the face of the midfielder as the relationship between the pair deteriorated.

Beckham went on to play for Los Angeles Galaxy, AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain but remains a United fan.

Neville, who stayed at Old Trafford his whole playing career, is still close friends with the former England captain and has opened up about his emotions following his pal's exit in an interview with StrettyNewsTV.

"I knew it was coming to an end a little bit from the previous 12 months," Neville said. "I was aware of the things that were going on behind the scenes.

"I was disappointed when he left but I was also disappointed when Nicky Butt left.

I was disappointed when my brother left, I was disappointed when Roy Keane left and I was disappointed when Denis Irwin left. They were a massive part of our lives and our careers at United.

"It wasn't just the lads around me - David, Phil and Nicky and such like. When a player of that magnitude left there was a void. They're a big miss.
“To be honest with you, at the time ‘sad’ probably wasn’t the right word.

“I was probably relieved a little bit. For him, for the club - it could never end badly, that relationship. David had done so much for the club and the club had done so much for David."

Neville was happy to Beckham fulfil has ambitions, adding: “He always harboured this hope of playing abroad, I think, and playing in European football.

“Looking at what he’s done in his career now: playing at Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, AC Milan, Manchester United, LA Galaxy... it’s a great career.

You can’t look at it and think that he was wrong. He’s richer for those experiences.

“His time had probably come at United where he was right to leave. There was a bit of me that was relieved that that tension, that little bit of an underlying thing that was there had gone.
"He was a brilliant player and I loved playing with him."

"WHEN YOU ARE BIG BUSINESS, PEOPLE TALK ABOUT YOU"; RONALDO.

Real Madrid star, Cristiano Ronaldo believes that the reason why he is always in the news is because he is a good business.

After their Champions League clash against Borussia Dortmund at Westfalenstadion, Ronaldo who scored a brace following  Gareth Bale's volley, was quizzed on his future by the press, following new deals at the Bernabeu for Marco Asensio and Isco.

His current deal in the Spanish capital runs until 2021, but that hasn't stopped rumours over whether he could leave Madrid.

Ronaldo said: "It's a good question, these things happen naturally but maybe the president can give a better response than I can.

"I'm happy and I'm doing what I enjoy.
"People talk about me every day all around the world, I live for football and my family, not for the media.

"Sometimes these stories start in Portugal, in Spain or even Germany, because when you're big business, people talk about you."

"THE CRITICISM IS GETTING WORSE"; RONALDO LAMENTS!

Cristiano Ronaldo has taken fresh aim at his critics after his double in Dortmund helped Real Madrid to a 3-1 win in the Champions League.

The Portuguese superstar made his return to domestic action in Los Blancos' defeat to Real Betis earlier this month but failed to score.

He again didn't find the target in the 2-1 win at Deportivo Alaves, but he was back on form in Germany, bagging a brace at the Westfalenstadion.

And he hit out at those who questioned him following the game, insisting he must keep proving himself every time he steps on to the pitch.

"It seems that I have to keep showing exactly who I am in every match," he said.

"I am surprised by what the public thinks of me, my numbers speak for themselves, I am an exemplary professional and I always have a clear mind.
"The criticism is getting worse."

Ronaldo was seemingly spurred on by his doubters as his goals plus a fantastic volley from Gareth Bale moved them on to six points, level with Tottenham (who equally won against Apoel) at the top of Group H.

"Before the game we spoke about how much we wanted to win in Dortmund," he added.

"We did what the coach told us, the team has been phenomenal, creating opportunities and it isn't easy to score three goals here.
"We played well."

DIEGO COSTA SAYS GOODBYE TO CHELSEA'S "WONDERFUL" FANS IN AN INSTAGRAM MESSAGE.

Diego Costa has written a farewell message to Chelsea's "wonderful" fans after the club confirmed his sale to Atletico Madrid.

Costa has sealed his £59million return Madrid after three years in west London that saw him lift the Premier League trophy twice.

Atltico's transfer embargo means the deal will take effect from January 1.
The Spain international, who will watch Chelsea and Atletico face each other in the Champions League on Wednesday night, used an Instagram post to say his goodbyes to Chelsea fans and staff.

He wrote: “Some cycles begin while others end. My cycle began at Chelsea three years ago – three remarkable years in all aspects – and I will never forget it.

"Two championship titles, a Community Shield, 120 matches, 59 goals and 24 assists later this cycle has ended. Not the way I would have wanted – far from it – but the best way possible.

"The wonderful fans of such equally admirable club and all team mates, as well as clinical, administrative and logistics staff will remain forever in my mind and in my heart.
"I will bring them with me in the certainty that I will always be by their side as well and I’m sure they will understand the reason why this cycle of mine has now ended – because I could not lose faith in myself. Thank you Chelsea for everything.”

Meanwhile, Blues manager Antonio Conte, insists he has no problems with his former striker and will shake hands with him if they meet again.

“As I said before, I have no problem with Diego Costa," said Conte. "I said that we wish, for him, the best for the future.
“We want to thank him for the last season. But,

MESSI OUT, BENTEKE IN, AS HAZARD REVEALS HIS 'PERFECT PLAYER COLLECTIONS'.

It is a universally accepted opinion that Eden Hazard is pretty good. Scratch that, very good.

The Belgian was in sparkling form last season as he helped guide the Blues to the Premier League title under Antonio Conte , and now he's recovered from injury he's sure to have a big impact on his side in the current campaign.

But what does he think goes into making the perfect player?

Well, in a feature with France Football magazine ahead of Chelsea's Champions League trip to Atletico Madrid on Wednesday, he was asked to name the attributes of fellow pros that he would use to make up what he sees as the perfect player.

There are nine of them in total, and prepare for some surprises along the way.

Finishing: Luis Suarez
He faced him in the Premier League when the Uruguayan was at Liverpool, and clearly Hazard is a fan of Suarez's goal-getting abilities.

The Barcelona man has scored 123 goals in 153 games for his current club, and so is an obvious pick, but there's no place for his teammate Lionel Messi in Hazard's "Frankenstein" creation.


Vision: Cesc Fabregas
“I have had the chance to play with [Cesc] Fabregas and I can say that he has the best game vision in the world," Hazard told France Football.
"He does not run fast, technically he does not make gestures. But he has that thing, and he has it since he was born. If I have his vision of the game, I’d be on a much higher level."


Movement: Karim Benzema
The Real Madrid forward was praised by Hazard for his his movement off the ball, which has helped him plunder 181 goals for the club since he arrived from Lyon in 2009.


Set-pieces: Christian Eriksen
Hazard initially wanted to pick the former Lyon midfielder Juninho Pernambucano to be his set-piece taker, but after being reminded that he had to go for a current player he settled on Tottenham's Eriksen.
"He shoots them too well," he said.


Class: Andres Iniesta
It is a fairly ambiguous term to describe a footballer, but by whatever parameter you want to define it, you'd have so concede that Barcelona's Iniesta is certainly full of class.


Heading: Christian Benteke
He might be languishing at the bottom of the Premier League right now, but Crystal Palace's Cristian Benteke - a Belgium international teammate of Hazard's of course - is the heading head bog.

After also praising Cristiano Ronaldo and Marouane Fellaini, he said: "Benteke, a crazy thing! He jumps, pah, goal!”


Physicality: Cristiano Ronaldo
Ronaldo does yet the nod for his physical attributes though, which is the one the Real Madrid superstar would surely have wanted above any other.


Leadership: John Terry
"John Terry is the best captain in the world," said Hazard. "He is there, he encourages you all the time. He screams.
"When you do not play well, it does not matter, he speaks to you, tells you that you must move. He has the right words. When I am a captain, I say to myself: ‘What am I going to say?’ I should be able to but I cannot. And there is no question of forcing myself.
"It will not be me. I do not like it. Some people like to talk, others do not.”


Speed: Eden Hazard
And for his speed, Hazard picked himself.
“For my speed, or rather acceleration, it is thanks to my mother, who has a shape that resembles mine," he said.
"She’s a sports teacher, my dad too. I did not even do exercises when I was a kid, that’s also innate. As far as I am concerned, I have this quality of speed over a few metres, not on a long distance.
"After that, I am quickly tired … But for the first five metres, at the start, I am not bad.”



Source: The Mirror.

WHY RIO FERDINAND THINKS MAN UTD WON'T REACH CHAMPIONS LEAGUE SEMIS.

Rio Ferdinand says Manchester United must be realistic about their chances of success in this season’s Champions League.

It is approaching 10 years since defender Ferdinand was part of the side that won the Champions League in Moscow in a dramatic penalty shoot-out win over Chelsea in the first all-English final.

United have returned to the Russian capital, to face CSKA Moscow in a Wednesday group game, looking to build on the 3-0 home win over Basel a fortnight ago which marked their return to the Champions League.

Twice in the last three seasons, the Old Trafford giants have failed to even qualify for the Champions League — a far cry from the time when they reached its final three times in four years between 2008 and 2011.

Entry to this season’s tournament came only by winning the Europa League last term after Jose Mourinho’s side ended up sixth in the Premier League — the club’s second-worst finish in 25 years.

And Ferdinand, 38, who made 455 appearances for the Red Devils in a glittering 12-year spell, reckons his successors must have practical expectations and accept they are no longer in the bracket of Europe’s elite clubs who can win it.

“I think it’s wise for United to be humble when it comes to the Champions League,” said Ferdinand. “You can’t look at United or judge them compared to how they were 10 years ago, when we last won the Champions League.

“They’re different squads and it’s a different animal altogether. They’re on a rebuilding track at the moment and in the midst of that. They’ve got to achieve things — they’ve got to win the Premier League again for a start [something United last did in 2013].

“They’ve got to try to do that first and consolidate there, before you start looking at the Champions League and talking yourself up as one of the contenders.

“Realistically, I don’t see United going as far as the semi-finals this season.”
Although United came through a gruelling Europa League campaign, which saw them travel to Holland, Ukraine, Turkey, France, Russia, Belgium and Spain before lifting the trophy in Sweden, Ferdinand warned the Champions League will be an even bigger test.

“It’s the away games that are the hardest in the Champions League, along with the travel,” he said. “Coming back to the Premier League after that week spent travelling is what you’ve got to contend with.

This is new territory for this United team and they’ve got to be able to deal with that.

“Getting a result in Moscow is going to be difficult, but I think that’s very possible with the squad they’ve got.

But more importantly is coming back to the Premier League after that big trip.
“How do they deal with that? How do they get through that?”

Mourinho, in his second season as boss, has followed a similar pattern throughout his managerial career — never completing four full seasons, with three years his usual tenure.

But Ferdinand believes the Special One has found in United a club where he can break that cycle of short-term stints and remain for a number of years to build a legacy.

“I think he’s found somewhere where he feels very comfortable, very at ease and, if it goes well, there’s no better place to be,” said the former England star.

“He’s managed at some of the biggest clubs in the world, the likes of Real Madrid and Inter Milan. But I think it’s a different pressure you get at places like that. Here, he’s allowed to live his life much more comfortably.

He loves England, he loves the football, the culture and I can see him staying at United - if successful - for many years.

“Also, where does he go from here? It’s been a long time coming on his part, to get to United, and I’m sure he doesn’t want to give it up easily.”

With Mourinho at the helm, Ferdinand reckons United have their best chance of returning to the glory days they enjoyed during Sir Alex Ferguson’s trophy-laden quarter-of a century in charge.

“I think United are in their best place now since that last title win,” said Ferdinand.

“They’ve set themselves up nicely after last season, winning a couple of trophies. Confidence is back in the squad and Mourinho has made some really good signings.

“They made all their decisions early in terms of signing the likes of Lukaku, and the team were ready to hit the ground running. Now they have to build on that.”



Source: The Mirror.

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FULL TIME RESULTS 26.09.2017.

Sevilla 3 NK Maribor 0.

Spartak Moscow 1 Liverpool 1.

Man City 2 Shakt Donsk 0.

Napoli 3 Feyenoord 1.

Besiktas 2 RB Leipzig 0.

Monaco 0 FC Porto 3.

Apoel Nic 0 Tottenham 3.

Bor Dortmd 1 Real Madrid 3.

ADNAN JANUZAJ HAS OPENED UP ON HIS OLD TRAFFORD EXIT.

Former Manchester United winger Adnan Januzaj has opened up on his Old Trafford exit and the “many difficult meetings” he endured with former manager Louis van Gaal.

Januzaj rose to prominence at United under David Moyes, scoring twice on his full Premier League debut as an 18-year-old.

An international battle for his signature soon followed - Januzaj eventually picking Belgium amid interest from Albania, Kosovo and even England - and Januzaj was hailed as one of Europe’s brightest young stars.

But four years later, Januzaj finds himself with Spanish side Real Sociedad, having been sold by Jose Mourinho in the summer after somewhat losing his way in Manchester.

The Belgian largely attributes that to Van Gaal’s arrival in 2014, Januzaj believing the Dutchman quite simply shackled the 20-time English champions and strangled his enjoyment of the game.

"There was not the same freedom," he told the
Daily Mail. "A winger needs that confidence, a manager telling you, 'Go and take people on'. With him, it was a slow passing game.

"For some it was difficult. You could see some players were not enjoying the football. The manager and I had many difficult meetings.

I was frustrated and everyone could see that I was not the same Adnan as the first year. I was sometimes even in the stands.

When you work hard in training and then get left out, it's hard for a young guy.

"As a footballer, if you think too much on the pitch, it is never good. You need instinct in your play.

When the ball came to us, we had to stop and think, "What are we going to do with it here?", 'I can't lose the ball'."

Januzaj started eight games in the Van Gaal’s first season, before being dumped on loan at Borussia Dortmund where his struggles continued.

A loan switch to Sunderland - and a reunion with Moyes - came last season, before Mourinho allowed the player to depart for Spain on a permanent deal.



Source: The Mirror.

"IT HAS BEEN WRONG"; FABREGAS NOT HAPPY ABOUT COSTA'S DEPARTURE.

Cesc Fabregas has lamented Chelsea’s decision to sell Diego Costa, believing the Blues outcast has been the world’s best No.9 in recent years.

Chelsea have agreed an initial £57million deal to allow the 28-year-old to re-join Atletico Madrid in January.
Costa hasn’t featured for the Blues this season, having been told in June by Antonio Conte that he had no future at the club - despite his 20 goals proving crucial in last year’s Premier League success.

The striker has remained in his Brazilian hometown of Lagarto throughout the summer, before heading to Madrid last week following the announcement of an agreement between the two clubs.

Fabregas, who will continue as an international teammate of Costa, says he will miss the relationship the two have fostered at club level.

"Clearly I would have preferred for him to continue as a teammate,” said Fabregas, speaking to Marca. "Diego will never be a rival to me.

"In recent years there has not been a pure striker better than him; he understood my game, read my passes and most importantly he could score from them.

“He gives a lot to the dressing room. He is not only the Diego that is seen on the field. He is a character that greatly encourages the group.”

Costa’s return to Atletico means he cannot play until January, due to the Spanish side’s transfer ban.

That means he can only watch on as Atleti continue their pursuit atop La Liga, as well as their Champions League push - with Los Rojiblancos facing Chelsea on Wednesday night.

“It's a shame for him more than anyone,” said Fabregas. “Diego knew that by signing for Atletico he could not play for a few months.

“It has been a difficult situation for him, for Chelsea. It has been wrong."



Source: The Mirror.

RYAN GIGGS' REACTION TO BARRY BREAKING HIS RECORD

History was made on Monday night when West Brom took on Arsenal at the Emirates.

That’s because it was Gareth Barry’s 633rd Premier League game, taking him past Ryan Giggs’ tally of 632.

Many consider Giggs as the greatest player to have ever graced England’s top-flight, having won 13 league titles for Manchester United during his 963 appearances for the club in all competitions.

While Barry hasn’t enjoyed a similarly decorated career - winning just one Premier League title - whilst turning out for Aston Villa, Manchester City,
Everton and West Brom but he will go down in the history books.

So, what does Giggs think of his incredible record being taken by Barry, though?

Well, luckily for us, we have the answer to that.

Barry was having an interview with Phil Neville about his incredible record when the former United defender showed him a little recorded message from Giggs.

What did it say?

“I’ve done an interview with Phil Neville and he passed a message on from Giggs through the IPad, just congratulating me,” Barry explained.

“It’s lovely to hear from him, passing the Premier League record over.

"He didn’t say thanks for the 6-1 game at Old Trafford! The best players erase their memories quite quickly.

“He just said his was a tougher record because he’s done it at a bigger club through his career! Fair enough, I’m not going to argue with Ryan about trophies and things like that.

“I don’t know Ryan too well personally but people like that, you try and take on board what they are doing and how they keep on doing it.

“We’ve obviously been lucky in terms of injuries to be able to keep on going.

“Ryan is the most decorated player in the English game. For him to play on until he was 40 and to keep his levels so high, he was someone you respect it.
“You think how are they doing it?”


Source: www.givemesport.com.

GARETH BARRY HAS BEATEN RYAN GIGGS TO PREMIER LEAGUE APPEARANCE RECORD.

Gareth Barry has broken the Premier League appearance record in West Brom's clash with Arsenal.

Barry, 36, was handed the captain's armband on his 632nd outing in the Premier League.

His start at the Emirates sees the ex-England midfielder overtake Ryan Giggs' long-standing record.

Speaking ahead of the clash, Barry said: "It is a nice moment for myself. I am very proud to reach that number.

"But I try to put that to the back of my mind and concentrate on the football.
"After the match, hopefully a positive result, and I can look back and be proud of it.

"Once we are out there, I won't be thinking about it all and will do my job as normal."

Barry revealed his Tottenham-supporting brothers would also be in the stands along with his chilren.

"My brothers have an extra incentive to come and hopefully see us get a positive result," he added.

"The kids have had a day off school to come and support me so it will be nice for them to."

Baggies boss Tony Pulis earlier confirmed his players had decided Barry should be captain for the encounter.

Barry made his debut for Aston Villa in their 3-1 win over Sheffield Wednesday on May 2, 1998.

A further 364 appearances followed before joining Manchester City for £12million in 2009.

Barry won the Premier League title during his time at the Etihad but moved to Everton in 2013, initially on loan, before completing a permanent switch the following summer.

He opted to leave Goodison Park for the Hawthorns at the end of the summer due to a lack of first-team opportunities.



Source: The Mirror.

FULL TIME AT THE EMIRATES STADIUM: ARSENAL v WEST BROM.

ARSENAL 2 WEST BROM 0.

THERE IS ONLY ONE WORLD CLASS STRIKER IN THE PREMIER LEAGUE; SAYS THIERRY HENRY.

Thierry Henry believes Sergio Aguero is the only world-class striker in the Premier League.

The Manchester City striker has been in devastating form so far this term, scoring six times in as many games for the leaders.

Romelu Lukaku and Alvaro Morata aren't too far behind with five apiece while Harry Kane, who has won the golden boot in each of the last two seasons, is on four.

But for Arsenal legend Henry, Aguero is the only member of the quartet who can rival the elite players across the continent.

"The only one who is world class, or has been world class, is Aguero because of the longevity of what he has done in this league, year in and year out," he said on Sky Sports' Monday Night Football.

"He won the league here and he has been doing it the longest. You have to give him a bit of credit. I think sometimes we bypass Aguero like he didn't happen."

Henry, who only really clicked into gear at the Emirates, does believe Aguero's rivals will soon reach his level.

"In the Premier League, with national team, in the Champions League, how many times, how many years - that is what we are talking about," he added.

"They will get there, but they are not there yet.

"Lukaku has just arrived at Manchester United, he hasn't played long in the Champions League.

"For Harry Kane, last season was short in the Champions League.

It was short in the Europa League and the Euros.

"Morata was often off the bench at Madrid. He had a good year at Juve but he was playing with Llorente or Tevez.

"They will get there and we should be happy to have these players in our league."

AUBAMEYANG SHOWS OFF HIS NEW CAR AS HE GETS READY FOR CRUNCH CHAMPIONS LEAGUE CLASH WITH REAL MADRID.

• 
  

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has revved up for Borussia Dortmund 's crunch Champions League clash with Real Madrid by splashing out £150,000 on a new motor.

The Gabon international has been in red-hot form for Dortmund, smashing 12 goals in nine games for the Bundesliga outfit.

His treble in Saturday's 6-1 win over Borussia Monchengladbach sent his side two points clear at the top of the table.

And Aubameyang, who was linked with Chelsea last summer , has rewarded himself with a metallic Lamborghini Murcielago for his efforts.

The 28-year-old uploaded a picture of his flash new wheels to his Instagram account, along with the caption: "Starting the week like..."

Aubameyang will be hoping to continue his scoring spree when Dortmund take on Real Madrid on Tuesday night.

The German outfit will be desperate to get a positive result after losing to Spurs at Wembley in their first Champions League group game.


Source: The Mirror.