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Saturday 30 September 2017

September 30, 2017

Chelsea vs Manchester city: Latest team news, and likely line up

What is it?

It's the Premier League meeting between champions Chelsea and league leaders Manchester City.

When is it?

Saturday Sept 30, 2017.

What time is kick-off?

Referee Martin Atkinson will get the match at Stamford Bridge under way at 5.30pm while his assistants Lee Betts and Stephen Child will run the lines. Andre Marriner will be the fourth official.

What TV channel is it on?

BT Sport 1 will be broadcasting the match. Alternatively, of course, you can join us right here for our minute-by-minute coverage of the match. Just bookmark this page and come back at around 4.30pm for all the team news, build-up, live commentary and on-the-whistle report.

What is the team news, who is injured and suspended?

Eden Hazard is expected to start in the Premier League for the first time this season when Chelsea host Manchester City.
Defender David Luiz completes his three-match domestic suspension for his dismissal against Arsenal, with Andreas Christensen poised to deputise.
Midfielder Danny Drinkwater (calf) is the only definite injury absentee.

Provisional squad: Courtois, Caballero, Rudiger, Alonso, Fabregas, Kante, Morata, Hazard, Pedro, Bakayoko, Moses, Kenedy, Musonda, Zappacosta, Willian, Batshuayi, Cahill, Christensen, Azpilicueta, Clarke-Salter, Scott, Eduardo.


City will be without Sergio Aguero for Saturday's trip to west London after the striker suffered rib injuries in a car crash on Thursday.

Left-back Benjamin Mendy is a long-term casualty after rupturing an anterior cruciate ligament in last week's 5-0 thrashing of Crystal Palace.

Captain Vincent Kompany, who has missed the last six games, remains on the sidelines with a calf injury.

Provisional squad: Ederson, Bravo, Walker, Stones, Otamendi, Mangala, Danilo, Delph, Toure, Gundogan, Fernandinho, De Bruyne, Sterling, Sane, D Silva, B Silva, Foden, Diaz, Jesus.
 What's our prediction?

Manchester City have scored five goals or more in their last three Premier League games, so Chelsea’s first task will be to stop them. But, having beaten Atletico Madrid in the Champions League, Chelsea can lay down an early title marker by inflicting City’s first Premier League defeat.


Prediction: Chelsea 2 Manchester City 1
September 30, 2017

Aguero, Mendy absences give Chelsea boost


Manchester City’s defensive resilience and offensive brilliance so far this season face arguably their sternest tests on Saturday against champions Chelsea, with the Premier League leaders without full-back Benjamin Mendy and star striker Sergio Aguero.

France full-back Mendy looks set to miss most, if not all, of the rest of the season after undergoing an operation on a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament.

City medical staff say Aguero will be absent for between two to four weeks with a broken rib suffered when a taxi the Argentinian star was travelling in — after attending a concert on his day off — crashed in Amsterdam on Thursday.

City will feel both their absences keenly.

Mendy has been in fine form for City since his £50 million ($67 million, 57 million euros) pre-season move from Monaco, whilst Aguero has scored six Premier League goals this term.

“It’s a broken rib. Hurts, but I’m fine, fully focused on recovery,” tweeted Aguero after being seen by City medical staff on Friday. Both City and Chelsea, three points behind both Pep Guardiola’s men and second-placed Manchester United, go into Saturday’s game on the back of midweek Champions League victories over Shakhtar Donetsk and Atletico Madrid respectively.

 – ‘Penalised’ – 

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte is unhappy that, while City played at home on Tuesday, his side have a short turnaround after arriving back in London in the early hours of Thursday morning following their success in the Spanish capital.

“I think we are a bit penalised,” said Conte. “Man City is a really strong team. They are scoring a lot of goals (21 in six Premier League games alone), they are in a good moment of form and we have to prepare well (for) this game because it is very important. “There is the international break (after this weekend),” the Italian added.
“My surprise is for this because there is the time (to play the game later).” United will be huge favourites to beat basement club Crystal Palace at Old Trafford on Saturday.

However Jose Mourinho, like Conte, is not happy with the quick turnaround after United returned from Russia in the early hours of Thursday having beaten CSKA Moscow in the Champions League.

“We have to play against everybody home and away and when I look at the fixtures I only look to the period of time we have to recover from match to match,” said Mourinho.

“That’s the only thing that concerns me and makes me think. The opposition is not the problem.”

Palace have lost all six of their league matches so far this season and have still to score their first top-flight goal of a campaign where they have already sacked Frank de Boer and brought in former England boss Roy Hodgson — a boyhood Palace fan — in a bid to arrest their slump.

Tottenham Hotspur, fresh from seeing England striker Harry Kane score a hat-trick in a 3-0 Champions League win away to APOEL Nicosia, are at surprise high-flyers Huddersfield Town, while Watford will look to consolidate their position in the top half at West Bromwich Albion.

Elsewhere West Ham United, with just Bournemouth and Palace below them in the table, will hope to ease the pressure on manager Slaven Bilic when they welcome Swansea City to the London Stadium.

The pick of Sunday’s three Premier League matches sees Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez up against former club Liverpool at St James’ Park in a fixture long known for producing high-scoring encounters.
 Fixtures (1400 GMT unless stated)
Saturday
 Bournemouth v Leicester,
Chelsea v Manchester City (1630 GMT),
Huddersfield v Tottenham (1130 GMT),
Manchester United v Crystal Palace,
Stoke v Southampton,
West Brom v Watford,
West Ham v Swansea
Sunday
 Arsenal v Brighton (1100 GMT),
Everton v Burnley (1315 GMT),
Newcastle v Liverpool (1430 GMT)

Predict your score for each match by droping your comment?

Friday 29 September 2017

September 29, 2017

Sergio Aguero 'suffers broken ribs' in car crash in Amsterdam

SERGIO AGUERO has suffered two broken ribs after cheating death in a horror car crash in Holland last night.


Aguero could face two months out with broken ribs after the Manchester City striker was involved in a car crash in Amsterdam on Thursday evening. Manchester City released a statement on Friday morning ahead of their trip to the champions Chelsea on Saturday: "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.
Sergio Aguero 'suffers broken ribs' in car crash in Amsterdam
Man City star Sergio Aguero appeared to hit a traffic post

Sergio Aguero 'suffers broken ribs' in car crash in Amsterdam
"He will return to Manchester this morning and his status will be checked ahead of tomorrow's Premier League clash at Chelsea." 
According to reports in Aguero's native Argentina, the forward suffered broken ribs when the taxi taking him to the airport crashed into a pole.
Sergio Aguero was involved in this smash and could be out for up to two months after breaking ribs
 Sergio Aguero was involved in this smash and could be out for up to two months after breaking ribs


Pictures on social media appeared to confirm the incident.
Aguero was in the Dutch capital to see a concert of Colombian singer-songwriter Maluma, and it is believed that his injuries would have been more severe had he not been wearing a seat-belt. 
Sergio Aguero 'suffers broken ribs' in car crash in Amsterdam
Aguero's former club, Independiente, tweeted a photo of Aguero with the words: "Strength and prompt recovery. Everyone @ Independiente is with you in this difficult moment."Earlier in the night, Aguero shared a picture of himself and Maluma on Instagram.
Aguero's was in the Netherlands to see one of his favourite artists Maluma - here he is pictured with the Colombian pop star
Aguero's was in the Netherlands to see one of his favourite artists Maluma - here he is pictured with the Colombian pop star

  Aguero handed Maluma one of his signed Man City shirts
Aguero handed Maluma one of his signed Man City shirts
Aguero's absence will be a major blow to club and country. The striker has been in sparkling form for City so far this season, scoring six goals and chipping in with three assists.
Two months on the sidelines would mean not only missing Saturday's crucial trip to Chelsea, but also matches against Arsenal in the Premier League and Napoli in the Champions League.
The news will also come as a big blow to Argentina, who host Peru in a crunch World Cup qualifier next month.
The news comes as a further blow for Pep Guardiola, after they revealed that £52million summer signing Benjamin Mendy is facing nine months out with an ACL knee injury.

Aguero’s stunning partner Karina Tejeda was not involved in the crash and is not thought to have travelled to Amsterdam with the striker.
Dutch police have revealed that two people were injured and taken to hospital, but would not confirm their names.
The 29-year-old father is believed to be one of the players taken for medical attention and his former club have sent their support. Independiente, tweeted a photo of Aguero with the words: “Strength and prompt recovery. Everyone @ Independiente is with you in this difficult moment.”

Aguero's stunning girlfriend Karina Tejeda was not in the Netherlands at the time of the accident
 Aguero's stunning girlfriend Karina Tejeda was not in the Netherlands at the time of the accident

The pair have been dating for more than three years

Thursday 28 September 2017

September 28, 2017

Barcelona forward Lionel Messi tops the La Liga Power Rankings for fourth week running

Barcelona's Lionel Messi has topped the La Liga Power Rankings for a fourth week running.

Barcelona forward Lionel Messi tops the La Liga Power Rankings for fourth week running


Messi was man-marked and nullified effectively by defender Pablo Maffeo during a 3-0 win at Girona and his commanding 6,000-point lead last week was slashed to 4,000 after the latest round of fixtures.

Atletico Madrid stopper Jan Oblak (No 2, no move) saved a penalty against Athletic Bilbao on Wednesday and kept his third clean sheet during a 2-0 win over Sevilla on Saturday - despite not having to make a single save.

Team-mates Yannick Ferreira-Carrasco (No 6, up seven places) and Antoine Griezmann (No 10, up 36 places) entered the top 10 after getting on the score sheet in Madrid.


Valencia forwards Rodrigo (No 8, up 27 places) and Simone Zaza (No 3, no move) both scored during a a 3-2 win at Real Sociedad, with Zaza grabbing the match-winner after hitting a hat-trick past Malaga in midweek.

Celta Vigo midfielder Pione Sisto soared 33 places up the chart, scoring and assisting Pablo Hernandez during a 4-0 win at Eibar.

Barcelona forward Lionel Messi tops the La Liga Power Rankings for fourth week runningBarcelona forward Lionel Messi tops the La Liga Power Rankings for fourth week running


Barcelona forward Lionel Messi tops the La Liga Power Rankings for fourth week runningBarcelona forward Lionel Messi tops the La Liga Power Rankings for fourth week running


September 28, 2017

Chelsea exit a shame for Diego Costa says Cesc Fabregas

Cesc Fabregas has paid tribute to Diego Costa ahead of his move from Chelsea to Atletico Madrid, saying the striker "deserves to be on the field".

Chelsea exit a shame for Diego Costa says Cesc Fabregas

Sky sources understand Atletico will pay more than £50m to sign Costa, who must pass a medical and agree personal terms before the move can be confirmed.

The Spain forward, who refused to train at Chelsea this summer in a bid to force through a transfer, is set to rejoin his former club in January when Atleti's transfer ban expires.
"It's a shame for him more than anyone," Fabregas told Marca. "Diego knew that signing for Atletico meant he could not play for a few months.

"It has been a difficult situation for him, for Chelsea. He deserves to be on the field."

Costa and Fabregas both signed for Chelsea in the summer of 2014 and helped the club win two Premier League titles and a League Cup.
"Diego is always [a friend] and never a rival," Fabregas added. "In recent years there has not been a better pure No 9 than him.

"I understood him myself perfectly. He knew my football, he read my passes and most importantly, he got on the end of them.

"He gives a lot to the team. It is not only the Diego you see on the field. He is a character that greatly encourages the group."

September 28, 2017

Villarreal sacked Fran Escriba following Sunday's loss

Villarreal have sacked manager Fran Escriba following Sunday's 4-0 loss to Getafe.
Villarreal sacked Fran Escriba following Sunday's loss

Escriba was dismissed on Monday with Villarreal 14th in La Liga after six games, having also lost to Levante and Real Sociedad, drawn with Espanyol and beaten Real Betis and Alaves.

The 52-year-old was appointed in August 2016 and in May renewed his contract to the end of this season.

"Villarreal have decided to terminate the contract of Fran Escriba as first-team coach," the club said in a statement.

"In the coming hours, the club will name who the new Villarreal coach will be."

Villarreal were promoted to Spain's top-flight in 1998 and 10 years later finished runners-up to Real Madrid in their best league campaign.

They suffered a shock relegation in 2012 but were immediately promoted the following year and have played in the Europa League each season since.
September 28, 2017

Mourinho claims Liverpool are 'luckier' than Man Utd

 The Red Devils boss believes Premier League scheduling is doing his side few favours, while their arch-rivals are benefiting from extra rest time.

Mourinho claims Liverpool are 'luckier' than Man Utd

Jose Mourinho claims Liverpool are “luckier” than his Manchester United side when it comes to the Premier League fixture list.

The Red Devils have enjoyed a positive opening to the 2017-18 campaign, with nine games negotiated in all competitions without defeat.
Their efforts in the Premier League have delivered 16 points – five more than Liverpool – while they have also progressed in the Carabao Cup and collected two wins in the Champions League.

United will, however, be back in action on Saturday following a midweek trip to Moscow and Mourinho admits that top-flight scheduling is doing his side few favours.

The Portuguese told reporters following a 4-1 victory over CSKA: “We have a game on Saturday.

“Liverpool are luckier than us, they play Tuesday and Sunday, we have to play on Wednesday and on Saturday at 3pm. So I think it’s normal, a little bit of relaxation.”

While conceding that his side took their foot off the gas a little in Russia, Mourinho was pleased to see no repeat of the “PlayStation football” he accused his side of playing when in control of a previous Champions League clash with Basel.

He added: “I didn’t see that as much, just a little bit of relaxation, a reaction by the home team with the normal pride to try to score, to try to have a different result and we just relaxed a little bit.

“We had a couple of good chances but I think it’s normal.
“I think we made it look easy. We started so strongly, I think we surprised them with our attitude and we were really strong. We killed the game.

“They didn’t look as good as they are, but I think because of us.”

United will welcome Crystal Palace on Old Trafford this weekend looking to stretch their unbeaten run and cement a standing among the early Premier League pacesetters – with only goal difference keeping them off top spot at present.
September 28, 2017

Chelsea Team News: Injuries, suspensions and line-up vs Man City

Chelsea are unbeaten in eight games but Saturday they face Manchester City, one of the most in-form teams in Europe who are aiming to make an early impact in the Premier League title race.

Chelsea Team News: Injuries, suspensions and line-up vs Man City

Man City have been scoring at will and they currently top the Premier League on goal difference, with Chelsea just three points behind in third place.
Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has complained that Man City are getting an extra day's rest ahead of the match, having played in Manchester on Tuesday while Chelsea played in Madrid on Wednesday. Chelsea will still be aiming to win but the upcoming match at Stamford Bridge will be the last in a difficult run of games for the club. 

CHELSEA INJURIES
Conte has almost a complete bill of health, but Danny Drinkwater remains out of contention and he has yet to make his debut for Chelsea. He was on the bench against Leicester City in early September but he has a calf injury which he may recover from after the international break.

Pedro has a "minor injury" according to Conte, but that didn't stop him making the bench against Atletico Madrid. He picked up a knock against Arsenal but should be available for selection against Man City.

Eden Hazard has completed his return to the first team in triumphant fashion as he was one of the star performers in Madrid. Chelsea have been cautious about reintroducing him into the first team after he broke his ankle on international duty in May.

Baba Rahman remains at Chelsea but isn't part of the club's Premier League or European squad due to a knee injury. He is expecting to return in late October or early November.

CHELSEA SUSPENSIONS
David Luiz is still banned after his red card against Arsenal. He will return for Chelsea after the international break. However, the centre-back was available to play in the Champions League versus Atletico as his suspension only counts for domestic competitions.

He also suffered a fractured wrist during the match against Arsenal but has continued full training and can play through the injury for his side's upcoming matches.

POTENTIAL STARTING LINE-UP
Andreas Christensen will continue to deputise for David Luiz in the centre of a three-man defence. The young defender has impressed Conte with his start to life at Stamford Bridge and he looks assured enough on the ball to take over in the middle of the back line.

Conte faces selection dilemmas in most positions on the pitch as he sees his side play three games in eight days. Chelsea have remarkable depth and rotated the likes of Pedro, Willian and Antonio Rudiger, who could come back in the side to face Man City.

Chelsea's 3-4-3 remains the club's primary formation after Conte won the title with the system last season. They have also lined up in the 3-5-2 formation on a few occasions this term, most notably in Madrid and away to Tottenham.

Chelsea Team News: Injuries, suspensions and line-up vs Man City
MANCHESTER CITY TEAM NEWS
Benjamin Mendy's knee injury has been described as a "major setback" by Pep Guardiola, and the left-back set for a lengthy spell out for City. Ilkay Gundogan came through his injury scare from last week to return for Man City against Shakhtar Donetsk in mid-week.

Chelsea Team News: Injuries, suspensions and line-up vs Man City

Vincent Kompany is expected to be out with a calf injury until after the international break, but City have a clean bill of health beyond that.

Chelsea Team News: Injuries, suspensions and line-up vs Man City

BEST OPTA MATCH FACTS
  • Manchester City lost both Premier League matches against Chelsea last season, with the Blues the only side to achieve this feat over Pep Guardiola’s side.
  •     Pep Guardiola has only lost three consecutive matches against an opponent once before in his managerial career — he lost three in a row against Real Madrid between April 2012 and April 2014 (one in La Liga, two in the Champions League).
  •     Guardiola has faced Chelsea seven times as a manager and failed to win any (D4 L3), more than against any other side — though one of those draws was in the 2013 Super Cup final, with his Bayern Munich side beating Chelsea 5-4 on penalties after a 2-2 draw. 

TV COVERAGE & KICK-OFF TIME
The match is being televised live in the UK and it will be shown on BT Sport. The kick off is at 17:30 BST on Saturday. In the US, the match can be seen at 12:30 p.m. ET on NBCSN. 
Do you think chelsea will win, loss, draw?
Predict your score
Have your say in the comments section below.
September 28, 2017

Opponent Reveals What Messi Asked Him During Game

 Pablo Maffeo, who has been praised for the way he man-marked Lionel Messi over the weekend, has now revealed what the superstar asked him during their match.


The 20-year-old Girona defender, who is on loan at the Spanish club from Pep Guardiola's Manchester City, was tasked with man-marking Messi and impressed before being substituted in the 79th minute.

"When you cover Messi, you have to think that he's a normal person, that he has two legs like everyone else," Maffeo said, as quoted by Spanish publication Sport.

"Messi said to me 'I've got you here for the whole game' and I responded: 'You're the best in the world, what am I going to do.'

"He asked me a couple of things: if I was on loan from Man City and how old I was. He was very humble.

"We were talking because I was stuck to him the whole match. There was no bad feeling or anything funny. He's the best player in the world and if you don't stick to him, he can score at any moment.

"I had to be with him and to stop him touching the ball. It's difficult, not just in terms of the football, but physiologically. I am grateful for the confidence the coach showed in me."

Despite man-marking Messi for most of the game, Maffeo did not ask for the Argentine's shirt after the match, and explained why.

"A friend of mine wanted (Marc-Andre) Ter Stegen's so I asked for his. Messi is the best in the world, but friends come first," he said.

Despite Maffeo being able to stop Messi from scoring, Barcelona beat the La Liga newcomers 3-0 courtesy of two own goals and a strike from Luis Suarez.

What would you chat to Messi about if you were man-marking him? Have your say in the comments section below. 
September 28, 2017

Brighton striker Tomer Hemed banned for stamp on DeAndre Yedlin

Brighton striker Tomer Hemed has been banned for three matches after being found guilty of violent conduct in Sunday's home win over Newcastle.

Brighton striker Tomer Hemed banned for stamp on DeAndre Yedlin

Hemed, who scored the winner in a 1-0 Brighton victory, will serve a three-match ban after a retrospective violent conduct charge by the Football Association was found proven.

The Israel international was involved in a coming together with Newcastle's United States defender DeAndre Yedlin after 88 minutes, appearing to stamp on his leg.

The FA charged him with "an alleged act of violent conduct which was not seen by the match officials but caught on video."

Hemed contested the charge, but a hearing on Wednesday ruled against him.

A statement from the FA said: "Tomer Hemed will serve a three-match suspension with immediate effect after a violent conduct charge against him was found proven.

"The player denied the charge. However, it was found proven following an Independent Regulatory Commission hearing."

The ban means Brighton will be without Hemed for Sunday's trip to Arsenal and games against Everton and West Ham.

They posted a short statement on their official website, confirming the ruling and suspension and adding that there would be "no further comment at this stage."

Brighton boss Chris Hughton had defended Hemed after the game, saying the incident had been purely accidental.

"I have seen it, and my absolute impression was that there was no intention, particularly knowing the player," Hughton said.
Do you think his foul worth 3 match ban? Have your say in the comments section below.
September 28, 2017

Bayern sack Ancelotti after defeat at PSG

Carlo Ancelotti has been sacked as head coach of Bayern Munich following an underwhelming start to the season that culminated in Wednesday's 3-0 Champions League thrashing at Paris Saint-Germain.


Ancelotti had won the Bundesliga title in his first campaign in Germany, but results and performances have tailed off - amid reports former club AC Milan are interested in the Italian - and the Bayern board acted on Thursday.

Bayern are third in the league and second in their Champions League group, with dismal defeats to Hoffenheim and PSG exacerbated by further poor displays and apparent problems behind the scenes.

Ancelotti's assistant and former Bayern defender Willy Sagnol will take charge in the interim, though Hoffenheim coach Julian Nagelsmann has been long touted as a target by Allianz Arena chiefs.

Bayern CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge said in a statement: "The performance of our team since the start of the season did not meet the expectations we put to them.

"The game in Paris clearly showed that we had to take action.

"Hasan Salihamidzic [sporting director] and I gave Carlo an open and serious discussion today and informed him of our decision.

"I would like to thank Carlo for his co-operation and regret that we have had to take this decision.

"Carlo is my friend and will remain so, but we had to make a professional decision in the best interests of FC Bayern. I now expect the team to have a positive development and improve performance, so we can reach our goals for this season."

Three-time Champions League-winning coach Ancelotti was hired to replace Pep Guardiola as Bayern sought greater rewards in Europe than the three semi-final appearances made under the Catalan.

However, Bayern were eliminated by Ancelotti's former club Real Madrid in last season's quarter-finals, going down 6-3 on aggregate.

A semi-final defeat in the DFB-Pokal left Ancelotti facing questions, having presided over the club's most underwhelming campaign since wrestling control of the Bundesliga away from Borussia Dortmund in 2012.

However, the current campaign has been equally shoddy, with Ancelotti having to fend off rumours that he had a January departure to the Chinese Super League lined up, amid muddled team selection and poor performances, including blowing a two-goal lead at home to Wolfsburg to draw 2-2.

Thomas Muller had earlier taken issue with being dropped from the team, while Arjen Robben, Franck Ribery and Mats Hummels were benched for the fateful defeat at the Parc des Princes.

Asked if the team were still behind Ancelotti after the loss, Robben told reporters: "I will not answer that. It was a painful defeat, we can talk about this. When it is a game as big as this, you never want to lose."

Ancelotti's departure marks a rocky start to the campaign at the club, with Manuel Neuer out until January with a foot injury, after which the Italian was forced to defend his fitness coach Giovani Mauri.

Star striker Robert Lewandowski has also taken aim at the club's refusal to splash the cash in the transfer market, after Bayern turned down the chance to enter a bidding war for want-away Arsenal star Alexis Sanchez.

Sagnol was reportedly drafted in to the club in order to add Bayern experience to Ancelotti's Italian-daubed backroom team and his audition for the role will begin at Hertha Berlin on Sunday.

After retiring as a player at Bayern in 2009, Sagnol managed France Under-21s before landing the top job at Bordeaux, although he lasted under two years and was dismissed with the club 14th in Ligue 1.
September 28, 2017

Chelsea Star To Become The Best Paid Player In The EPL?

Chelsea Star To Become The Best Paid Player In The Premier League?

 
 Reigning Premier League champions Chelsea are reportedly ready to offer one of their stars a new deal which could see him become the best-paid player in English football.

Click here to see who are currently the five highest earners in the Premier League, according to the Daily Express.

According to the English publication The Sun, Antonio Conte’s side is looking to offer Belgium international Eden Hazard a contract that will apparently see him earn around £300 000 (R5.39 million) a week.

The winger, who could topple Paul Pogba as the league’s highest earner, is currently on a deal reportedly worth £220 000 (R3.95 million) a week at Stamford Bridge.

The 26-year-old has not played much football this season as he has been recovering from a broken ankle, but despite the injury, there have been rumours circulating that Real Madrid have been lining up a possible bid for the player.

Henry: There Is Only One World Class Striker In The EPL

Hazard has made 254 appearances for the London side so far, scoring 72 goals and assisting in a further 64 more.

Do you think Hazard new deal will be enough for the Blues to keep hold of the Belgian should Real come calling? Have your say in the comments section below.
September 28, 2017

Man City's Benjamin Mendy out 'longer than we expected' - Pep Guardiola

MANCHESTER -- Pep Guardiola fears Benjamin Mendy's knee injury looks more serious than expected and hinted Manchester City may consider signing a new left-back in the January transfer window.


The French defender, who was at the Etihad Stadium for the 2-0 win over Shakhtar Donetsk, will fly to Barcelona later this week for more tests on his knee.

Mendy is the only out-and-out left back at the club and if he is ruled out for a significant amount of time, Guardiola insists he does have options for cover.

"Tomorrow he's travelling to Barcelona and we will see finally what he has," Guardiola told a news conference. "Our first impression is that it will it be a little long, longer than we expected. It is very frustrating for him first as a person.

"It is very frustrating for him first as a person but like happened last year with Ilkay Gundogan, I feel really sad for him. For the way we want to play, we will lose a lot, he is a unique player.

"We will see in January [about buying a replacement]. We thought next summer about looking for another left-back, another replacement. We have alternatives in our squad -- Danilo, [Fabian] Delph, Fernandinho, even [Oleksandr] Zinchenko."

City did at least round off the day with a victory to start the Champions League with back-to-back wins for the first time in the club's history.

Guardiola had warned before the game that Shakhtar were dangerous opponents and the Ukrainian champions offered plenty of threat before Kevin De Bruyne's first goal of the season broke the deadlock and a late Raheem Sterling goal wrapped up the win.

"The way they play demands a lot of things," the City boss added. "We beat an amazing team.

"If we hadn't played with that intensity, with high pressing, with that team you cannot beat them. In the first half we had problems controlling the counterattack, but in the second half we were really good."

Guardiola called Delph the man of the match for his performance, adding: "[The] guy is so kind and always tries to help. When he plays in the side we have more tempo and time and he did it really well."

But Delph hailed De Bruyne's "moment of magic" in what proved a testing night against the Ukrainian champions.

"It was very difficult. We're not used to teams who come and keep the ball as well as they do," Delph told BT Sport 3. "We had to be organised and patient but in the end we knew we'd get the chances.

"We probably could have stuck a few more away, but when you've got guys like this guy [De Bruyne] who can have that moment of magic you're always confident going into games."

Belgium international De Bruyne played down his own game while praising visitors Shakhtar.

"Well I definitely think it's not my best game," De Bruyne said. "It's just the way it goes today but this team can definitely play some football. They're very skilful guys.

"The first half was very difficult for both sides but the second half we were better, kept the ball better and created more chances. In the end it was a deserved victory and we keep another clean sheet so that was very nice."

City have six points at the top of Group F, ahead of Shakhtar and Napoli, who both have a win and loss each.

Despite the defeat, Shakhtar boss Paulo Fonseca believed his side had caused the opponents more trouble than any side that had visited the Etihad Stadium this season.

"I'm disappointed with our defeat, but I'm proud of my team and their performance," Fonseca said. "Shakhtar showed great courage.

"We tried to play our football, to possess the ball. We were very compact. I've watched all City's games this season and no team caused them as many problems as we did."

Do you think his absence will affect pep dream of winning premier league? Have your say in the comments section below.

Wednesday 27 September 2017

September 27, 2017

Paris Saint-Germain 3-0 Bayern Munich: Neymar and Edinson Cavani score and embrace in dominant win - 5 talking points

Paris Saint-Germain's new look front line cruised to victory in their first big test since being assembled.

Edinson Cavani and Neymar were both on the scoresheet as they put their high-profile feud behind them - but both were assisted by Kylian Mbappe.

The scoring was opened after just 88 seconds when Dani Alves charged in at the back post to smash an effort home.

Cavani made it two before the break, curling home from the edge of the area, before Neymar prodded home the third to kill off the game.

Here are the key talking points we took away from the game...



1. Bayern protest at PSG's ticket prices
Not for the first time, Bayern's fans have been protesting against ticket prices at a European night.
They challenged the cost of Arsenal's prices last season and have done the same again at the Parc des Princes.
Bayern's banners read: "75 Euro a ticket? We are not Neymar. Ticket Prices must be reasonable."Others called for the respect of fans.
The away end was, however, completely full.


2. Neymar is human after all

He's lost penalty duty at PSG already - and there might be a reason why.
Neymar was played through and was set to be one-on-one but an uncharacteristic heavy touch denied him, as the ball cannoned off his foot towards Bayern goalkeeper Sven Ulreich, who smothered.
Then at the start of the second half, he put a chance wide that was probably easier to score.

A couple of rare mishaps from the Brazilian. Thankfully, PSG did not suffer and Neymar got on the scoresheet in the second half.


3. Cavani vs Neymar battle appears over

Neymar and Cavani look to have put their feud behind them.

Cavani doubled PSG lead following Dani Alves' opener in the Champions League clash.

But although Neymar did not immediately celebrate with his teammate - instead doing so with Kylian Mbappe - he eventually hugged Cavani.

Shortly afterwards, Neymar set up Cavani for a chance, and although it was missed, the pair high-fived - a clear sign that the feud is over.
They also embraced during the second half after Neymar made it three.



4. Areola proving his worth in PSG goal
While the front line takes all of the plaudits at PSG, they are doing some sneaky good work at the back.
It all starts with goalkeeper Alphonse Areola, who ensured that PSG stayed in the game as Bayern piled on the pressure at 1-0.
One save in particular stood out, as the 24-year-old acrobatically lunged to the top corner to deny Javi Martinez's long-range drive.
 After loan spells at Lens, Bastia and Villarreal, the former PSG youth product looks ready to establish himself as one of Europe's top goalkeepers.


5. Robben and Ribery absence looked costly
Both Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery are the wrong side of 30 and they have to be managed smartly.
But without either in the starting XI, Bayern looked to be missing a little bit of flair in their team when they took the ball into the final third.

After falling a goal behind in the opening minute, Bayern were immediately on the back foot and appeared disjointed in attack.

Either Bayern need to find younger replacements for their iconic wing duo, or they need to find a way of working them into the team to freshen up their options.

September 27, 2017

Atletico Madrid 1 Chelsea 2: Michy Batshuayi last-gasp winner settles electric Champions League game

Michy Batshuayi scored deep into added time as Chelsea came from behind to secure a valuable Champions League win against Atletico Madrid.

Despite dominating the Group C clash in the Spanish capital, Chelsea found themselves behind when David Luiz gave away a first-half penalty which Antoine Griezmann converted.

Morata restored parity on the hour mark, though, when he headed home Eden Hazard's cross to equalise before Batshuayi converted from close range with the last kick of the game.

Ahead of the match, Atleti manager Diego Simeone had described playing in the club's new Wanda Metropolitano stadium as like being in a Roman amphitheatre.
Indeed, Los Rojiblancos had won both their league matches in their new arena ahead of hosting Chelsea, and the home fans certainly created an intimidating atmosphere as Atletico started the Group C clash brightly.

But Hazard - making just his second start of the season - showed just how much Chelsea have missed him, exerting his influence as the first half wore on - with his 13th-minute effort taking a deflection and crashing off the post.

Morata, who had scored six Premier League goals in six games including a hat-trick against Stoke on the weekend, then tested Jan Oblak with his header from Luiz's long-range pass which the Atletico goalkeeper tipped over the bar.

The opportunity proved the start of a period of dominance for Conte's men, with the Blues dictating the pace and tempo of the game for much of the first half.


But the visitors soon found themselves trailing needlessly when Luiz's tug on Lucas in the area during a corner kick saw Atletico handed a penalty.
Griezmann, who scored the first-ever goal at the Wanda Metropolitano against Malaga in mid-September, duly converted his spot-kick to give Atletico the lead they hadn't looked like getting.
The hosts could have then doubled their advantage seconds before the break when Koke drove a low effort from 25 yards out which Courtois saved.


The Belgian could, however, only push the ball back out to Saul Niguez whose resulting shot then flew wide.
With the Blues trailing, Conte sent his Chelsea side out from the break looking for the equaliser - which they got in the 60th minute.
Hazard sent a superb cross into the box from the left, which Morata headed past Oblak to restore parity as the man who he replaced, Diego Costa, watched on from the stands following his move from Chelsea to Atletico on Tuesday.
Chelsea kept up the pressure and should have taken the lead when Morata powered into the area but then poked his shot wide of the far corner.


Both managers made a host of substitutions and it appeared as though the game would end 1-1 before late substitute Michy Batshayi won the game at the death.
Chelsea won a late free kick and pushed up field through Marcos Alonso before the left-back cut the ball back for Batshuayi to convert from close range, sending Conte wild on the touchline, and securing a deserved win.



                                                           
September 27, 2017

Diego Simeone reveals four dangerous Chelsea players that his defenders should be wary of ahead of Champions League clash

The Argentine will take on Antonio Conte’s men in the Spanish capital on Wednesday night, September 27, in what will be his 50th Champions League match in charge of the club, having taken them to the final on two occasions.

Chelsea sit top of Group C after thumping Qarabag 6-0 in their first match, while Atletico found themselves frustrated in a 0-0 draw against Roma.

The two sides are the favourites to progress in the group, though, and it promises to be an intriguing match-up between two of Europe’s finest managers.
Ahead of the clash, Simeone praised Chelsea’s forwards and believes former Real Madrid striker Morata who scored a hat-trick against Stoke on Saturday, September 23, is particularly dangerous.
“Morata is a very important player,”he said ahead of the match.
“He has great movement in the box, he knows how to play with his back to goal and can keep the ball.
“He will perform really well at Chelsea alongside players like Willian, Hazard and Pedro."

Atletico midfielder Koke agreed with his boss that his international team-mate is a particular threat.

“There are many Spanish players at Chelsea and they are scoring goals like my friend Morata. Everything he touches is hitting the back of the net,” the 26-year-old said.
“Let’s hope they do not have a good day tomorrow.”
Atletico Madrid currently sit second in group C and with one point and will hope to get maximum points from the Blues as the visit the Estadio Wanda Metropolitano.

September 27, 2017

HAZARD, LUIZ & PEDRO FIT TO FACE ATLETICO - CONTE


The Blues coach says he has a fully fit squad for Wednesday's visit to the Wanda Metropolitan, despite some recent injury worries

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has declared David Luiz, Pedro and Eden Hazard fit for Wednesday's Champions League clash against Atletico Madrid.

Luiz suffered a fractured wrist in last weekend's 0-0 draw with Arsenal, while Pedro picked up a minor knock in Saturday's 4-0 win over Stoke.

Hazard, meanwhile, made his first start of the season in the 5-1 EFL Cup win over Nottingham Forest on Wednesday after breaking his ankle in June.

"David is an important player for us, he is a generous player and always available," Conte said.

"This type of injury won't stop him. He is in contention for the game, no problem."

On Hazard, Conte added: "This competition is very important for him and the team as it brings you on another level. He is totally fit and in contention for the game.

"Everyone is fit. Pedro has a minor problem but not a serious problem."

Chelsea have bounced back in style from their shock opening-day Premier League defeat to Burnley-winning six of their last seven games in all competitions - and Conte admits he will be using the game at the Wanda Metropolitan as a barometer of his side's progress.


"For us it is very important to play game by game, now we play a really tough game," he said.

"It is an important game for us. You understand which your moment is and for us it is very important to play this type of game - away to one of the best teams in the Champions League. It is the best moment to understand where we are."