Embed from Getty Images Gonzalo Higuain is set to make his Premier League debut as Chelsea travel to Bournemouth on Wednesday. Higuain made his Blues bow in Sunday’s FA Cup win over Sheffield Wednesday, when Eden Hazard was rested, but the Belgian is poised to return as one of a raft of changes. David Luiz,…
Author: London Football News
Palace boss Hodgson plays down importance of Southampton clash
Roy Hodgson insists it is premature to call Crystal Palace’s Premier League match against Southampton a six-pointer. Only goal difference separates Palace and the Saints with the two relegation-threatened teams just three points above the drop zone. But, ahead of his side’s trip to St Mary’s Stadium on Wednesday night, manager Hodgson said: “It is…
Paper round-up: Clarets considering pre-deadline move for Tottenham man
Embed from Getty Images Burnley have again been linked with a pre-deadline move for Tottenham striker Vincent Janssen. The Daily Mail say Burnley manager Sean Dyche is considering moves for Janssen and Birmingham City’s Che Adams this week. Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino has made it clear that the out-of-favour Janssen can leave. Reports say Tottenham…
Paper round-up: Man Utd look to fend off interest in Arsenal target Mata
Embed from Getty Images Manchester United have offered Juan Mata a new deal in an attempt to stop him joining Arsenal, according to The Sun. Mata’s contract at Old Trafford expires in the summer and reports have recently claimed that Arsenal could sign him on a free transfer. The Sun say United have offered him…
Fulham v Brighton: Kamara banned, Seagulls duo available
Embed from Getty Images Fulham have no fresh injury concerns but will be without suspended forward Aboubakar Kamara for the Premier League game with Brighton. Frenchman Kamara has been banned indefinitely by the club and is the subject of an internal investigation following an incident at the Cottagers’ training ground. Midfielder Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa has…
Arsenal v Cardiff: Emery faces tough choice, Warnock to make late decision
Arsenal boss Unai Emery faces a defensive conundrum for Tuesday’s Premier League clash with Cardiff, with Sokratis Papastathopoulos out for up to a month with an ankle problem and Laurent Koscielny likely to miss out. Sokratis and fellow centre-back Koscielny were injured in last Friday’s 3-1 home defeat to Manchester United in the FA Cup,…
Confirmed: Two signings being lined up by Arsenal
Unai Emery says Arsenal could recruit two players before Thursday’s transfer deadline. The Arsenal boss’ preference is for loan deals for players who can improve his squad, with Inter Milan’s Ivan Perisic and Denis Suarez of Barcelona linked with moves. Emery, who would not be drawn on specific names, said: “This transfer (window) is not…
Paper round-up: Forest boss O’Neill wants Oxford for £8m
Embed from Getty Images Nottingham Forest manager Martin O’Neill wants to sign Reece Oxford from West Ham, the Daily Mirror say. There has been much speculation over the future of Oxford, who has had two spells on loan at Borussia Mönchengladbach. Reports suggest the German club want to buy him but that Oxford would rather…
Gullit says Sarri has made a big mistake by signing Higuain
Embed from Getty Images Ruud Gullit does not believe Gonzalo Higuain is the striker Chelsea need. Keen to resolve his side’s problems in front of goal, Blues boss Maurizio Sarri has been desperate to be reunited with Higuain, who previously played under him at Napoli. The Argentine has duly been brought in on loan from…
Zola plays down the pressure on Higuain
Embed from Getty Images Gianfranco Zola has played down the pressure on Gonzalo Higuain to deliver goals for Chelsea. The striker, signed on loan from Juventus, is expected to make his debut in Sunday’s FA Cup tie at home to Sheffield Wednesday. Chelsea have brought him in after problems in front of goal this season,…
Pellegrini ashamed of West Ham players after FA Cup defeat
Embed from Getty Images Manuel Pellegrini admitted he was ashamed of his players after West Ham’s humiliating FA Cup exit at the hands of AFC Wimbledon. The Hammers, 10th in the Premier League, were deservedly beaten 4-2 by a team lying rock bottom of League One. They found themselves three behind a minute into the…
Palace boss Hodgson defends Pochettino over Spurs trophy drought
Roy Hodgson has defended Mauricio Pochettino after the Tottenham manager missed his latest chance to win a trophy when his team were eliminated from the Carabao Cup. Thursday’s penalty shootout defeat by Chelsea ended Spurs’ run in the competition at the semi-final stage, prolonging the Argentinian’s pursuit of a first trophy at the club since…
Paper round-up: Arsenal and West Ham both keen on Spanish midfielder
Embed from Getty Images Arsenal and West Ham are reportedly interested in Villarreal midfielder Pablo Fornals. The Spaniard’s performances this season have led to speculation that he could move during the January window. And both Arsenal and the Hammers are keen to snap him up, according to Spanish newspaper Sport, as reported by Talksport. Meanwhile,…
Emery ‘happy’ with display against United
Embed from Getty Images Arsenal boss Unai Emery insisted he was happy with the performance against Manchester United despite their FA Cup exit. Their chances were hampered by injuries to defenders Sokratis Papastathopoulos and Laurent Koscielny, who was taken to hospital with a possible broken jaw. “I think they weren’t big injuries for Sokratis,” Emery…
Arsenal v Man Utd player ratings – Koscielny and Xhaka poor, Mustafi even worse
Embed from Getty Images Alexis Sanchez scored on his return to the Emirates Stadium as Manchester United knocked Arsenal out of the FA Cup. Here’s how we rated each Gunners player in the 3-1 defeat. PETR CECH: Could maybe have done better with the third goal as he palmed Paul Pogba’s shot back into play…
Written in the script: How Alexis Sanchez helped Man Utd crush Arsenal on his Emirates return
Embed from Getty Images Alexis Sanchez enjoyed his return to Arsenal as he scored in a 3-1 win for Manchester United in the FA Cup fourth round. It was his first time back at the Emirates Stadium since his switch to Old Trafford last January. Written in the script There was perhaps little surprise that…
Sanchez scores on return as Arsenal are crushed by Man Utd
Embed from Getty Images Alexis Sanchez scored on his return to the Emirates Stadium as Manchester United saw off Arsenal to reach the fifth round of the FA Cup and extend Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s winning start. The two most successful sides in the competition’s history played out an entertaining Friday night game as United secured…
Pochettino says Spurs are chasing possible signings – in England and abroad
Embed from Getty Images Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino has revealed the club are working on some options in the January transfer window. Pochettino has previously said he did not think he would make any additions this month, which would have made it back-to-back transfer windows without a signing. He had even stuck to his guns…
Pochetinno defends Dier and gives update on Davies injury
Embed from Getty Images Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino praised his players after they were beaten on penalties by Chelsea in the Carabao Cup. Spurs missed out on a place in the final and Pochettino’s wait for his first trophy as a manager goes on. But he took pride in the performance in the semi-final second…
Emery reveals he wanted to sign Alexis Sanchez
Embed from Getty Images Unai Emery has revealed he was keen to take Alexis Sanchez from Arsenal to Paris St Germain last winter. The Chile forward prepares to return to the Emirates Stadium for the first time on Friday night after he ended up leaving the Gunners to join Manchester United. Sanchez, who moved in…
Defender responds to reports he could be next to join Sarri at Chelsea
Embed from Getty Images Daniele Rugani has played down speculation that he could be the next player to leave Serie A to join Maurizio Sarri at Chelsea. Sarri brought in Jorginho from his former club Napoli last summer and has now also captured Gonzalo Higuain, who also played under him at the Naples club. Rugani…
Millwall boss Harris eyes cup shock against Everton
Embed from Getty Images Neil Harris has urged his Millwall team to continue their momentum against Everton in Saturday’s FA Cup fourth-round fixture. The Lions have been inconsistent to the point of struggling against relegation this season, sitting only six points clear of the bottom three. Four successive victories since Boxing Day eased the pressure…
Paper round-up: Spurs boss Pochettino keen on deal to sign PSG star
Embed from Getty Images Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino is keen on a deal to sign Paris St-Germain midfielder Adrien Rabiot, reports say. The Daily Star have picked up on France Football suggesting that Pochettino is looking to sign Rabiot, whose contract expires at the end of the season. The 23-year-old has also been linked with…
Millwall have not made approach for QPR’s Smith, reporter suggests
Embed from Getty Images Millwall have not made an approach for QPR striker Matt Smith, local reporter Phil Spencer has suggested. West London Sport reports that Millwall are interested in taking Smith on loan, but that his wages could be a stumbling block, and that the Lions made an approach after Tom Elliott was ruled out…
Sarri continues criticism of players with blunt verdict on Hazard
Embed from Getty Images Chelsea head coach Maurizio Sarri has followed the extraordinary criticism of his players with a less than favourable critique of Eden Hazard. Hazard, in an interview with France Football this week, spoke about frustrating all his managers, with Sarri laughing when the comments were put to him while praising the Belgian…
QPR duo could go on loan after failing to impress McClaren
Embed from Getty Images Paul Smyth and Matt Smith could both be on their way out of QPR on loan. West London Sport reports that Rangers will this week choose between a string of clubs keen on Smyth and that Millwall are interested in target man Smith. Northern Ireland international Smyth, 21, recently signed a…
Arsenal boss Emery relishing challenge of facing improved Man Utd
Unai Emery believes Manchester United are a “different team” with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer at the helm. The Red Devils travel to face Emery’s Arsenal on Friday night in the pick of the FA Cup fourth round ties. The two sides shared a 2-2 Premier League draw at Old Trafford last month, shortly before Jose Mourinho…
Paper round-up: Arsenal transfer deal appears to have fallen through
Embed from Getty Images The Independent say Arsenal could allow Aaron Ramsey to join Juventus this month if they can complete loan deals for Denis Suarez and James Rodriguez. Talks have taken place over Barcelona midfielder Suarez and the Gunners have also been linked with Colombia star James, who is currently on loan at Bayern…
Paper round-up: Arsenal have approach for Man Utd man rejected
Embed from Getty Images Arsenal have reportedly failed with an attempt to land Manchester United defender Eric Bailly. The Daily Mail say Arsenal boss Unai Emery is keen to bring in Bailly and that the Gunners made an approach to take him on loan for the rest of the season. The Mail say the move…
Alli ruled out until March with hamstring injury
Embed from Getty Images Tottenham have suffered more injury woe with news that Dele Alli is out until early March with a hamstring injury. Alli sustained the problem in Sunday’s 2-1 win at Fulham and it is the third such injury he has suffered this season. He joins his England team-mate Harry Kane in the…
Arsenal’s Bellerin out for six to nine months
Embed from Getty Images Arsenal have announced that defender Hector Bellerin has ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament of his left knee. The defender is expected to be out for between six and nine months, the club confirmed on Tuesday morning. He suffered the injury during Arsenal’s derby win against Chelsea at the weekend. The Spaniard…
Paper round-up: Arsenal eyeing highly-rated Italian youngster
Embed from Getty Images Metro have picked up on reports in Italy linking Arsenal with Juventus’ highly-rated young goalkeeper Emil Audero. The Italy Under-21 international is currently on loan at Sampdoria and his Juve contract is due to expire this summer. It is claimed that Arsenal are considering signing him as a replacement for Petr…
Paper round-up: Burnley keen on Janssen
Embed from Getty Images Burnley are reportedly interested in signing Vincent Janssen from Tottenham. It follows reports that Spurs are willing to sell the striker during this transfer window despite injuries reducing their current attacking options. The Daily Telegraph reports that Spurs are prepared to take £15m for Janssen, who is out of the first-team…
Tottenham could be forced to play academy forward against Chelsea
Embed from Getty Images Youngster Kazaiah Sterling is reportedly in contention to feature for Tottenham in their Carabao Cup semi-final showdown with Chelsea. Spurs, 1-0 up from the first leg, have been beset by injury problems ahead of the return leg at Stamford Bridge. They are without the likes of striker Harry Kane and their…
Tottenham not interested in West Ham striker Carroll
Embed from Getty Images Tottenham are not interested in signing West Ham striker Andy Carroll, according to Sky Sports. The Sun newspaper reported that Carroll. 30, has emerged as a shock target for injury-hit Spurs, who are without the likes of Harry Kane. It was claimed that Carroll, whose contract is due to expire this…
The three players set to get what could be their last chance at QPR
Embed from Getty Images QPR boss Steve McClaren is expected to make changes for Saturday’s FA Cup game against Portsmouth. It will mean another chance for some of his fringe players – potentially their last one. Matt Ingram The goalkeeper has had a miserable time since Alex Smithies’ summer move handed him the chance to…
Cahill to reject Fulham and open door to potential Aston Villa move
Embed from Getty Images Gary Cahill looks unlikely to join Fulham from Chelsea, according to reports. Fulham boss Claudio Ranieri recently confirmed that he was looking to sign the former England defender but expressed doubts that Cahill would be up for a battle against relegation. The Cottagers are one off the bottom of the Premier…
Tottenham ready to let Janssen go despite injury problems
Embed from Getty Images Tottenham are reportedly willing to sell Vincent Janssen despite their shortage of attacking options. Spurs are without a number of injured players, including Harry Kane, whose stand-in Fernando Llorente scored an own goal and missed two sitters in Sunday’s derby win over Fulham at Craven Cottage. The Mail say Spurs are…
QPR man gives honest reason why McClaren isn’t picking him
Embed from Getty Images Matt Smith has admitted the main reason he has been phased out of the QPR side is that he simply isn’t suited to Steve McClaren’s style of play. The target man played a key role under ex-boss Ian Holloway and scored 11 goals last season. But with McClaren keen to impose…
Arsenal confirm departure of recruitment chief
Arsenal have announced head of recruitment Sven Mislintat will leave the club next month. The German joined the Gunners on December 1, 2017 and has been in place for less than 14 months. In a statement on their website, Arsenal said Mislintat had “done a truly outstanding job”. Mislintat will leave on February 8, the…
Paper round-up: Henry could beat Arsenal boss Emery to signing of winger
Embed from Getty Images Monaco boss Thierry Henry could challenge his former club Arsenal for the signing of Gelson Martins, the Daily Express say. The Atletico Madrid winger is among a host of players Arsenal have been linked during this transfer window. The Gunners are reportedly looking to sign Martins on loan, but the Express…
Redknapp slams Tottenham over Dembele decision
Embed from Getty Images Former Tottenham midfielder Jamie Redknapp says Dele Alli’s injury suggests the club were wrong to let Mousa Dembele go. Spurs’ woes increased when England international Alli was taken off after suffering a nasty-looking hamstring injury during Sunday’s 2-1 win in the London derby at Fulham. It came just days after the…
Alonso admits Chelsea made ‘silly mistakes’ after players are slated by Sarri
Embed from Getty Images Marcos Alonso insists Chelsea must use their defeat at Arsenal as motivation – after Blues boss Maurizio Sarri slammed his players following their performance at the Emirates Stadium. The Gunners ran out deserved 2-0 winners on Saturday as Alexandre Lacazette and Laurent Koscielny scored first-half goals for Unai Emery’s side. The…
Huge sign Higuain to Chelsea deal is close to being completed
Embed from Getty Images Gonzalo Higuain has been left out of AC Milan’s squad for their match against Genoa on Monday amid reports of an imminent move to Chelsea. The Blues have been linked with a move for the 31-year-old Argentina international, who excelled under Maurizio Sarri at Napoli and is currently on loan at…
BBC pundit: Sarri is the problem, not Chelsea’s players
Embed from Getty Images Alan Shearer has suggested Maurizio Sarri has got it wrong with some of his key decisions as Chelsea boss. Sarri has deployed Eden Hazard as a striker and N’Golo Kante in a more attacking midfield role. Results have been mixed – and the Blues were outplayed in their 2-0 defeat at…
BBC pundit hails Liverpool but says Crystal Palace deserve credit
Embed from Getty Images Alan Shearer believes Crystal Palace deserve great credit for their performance against Liverpool. Jurgen Klopp’s side were pushed all the way by the Eagles at Anfield, where the Premier League leaders won 4-3 in a thrilling game. Speaking on Match of the Day, pundit Shearer suggested Liverpool had passed a major…
Proud Emery hails Arsenal players – as Sarri absolutely slates Chelsea’s
Embed from Getty Images A seething Maurizio Sarri launched an extraordinary attack on his Chelsea players after Saturday’s limp 2-0 Premier League loss at Arsenal. Chelsea’s only defeat in their prior 14 Premier League games against Arsenal was the 3-0 loss in September 2016 which saw Antonio Conte make dramatic changes, leading to a run…
Emery: Lose to Chelsea and Arsenal’s top-four hopes are over
Unai Emery believes defeat to Chelsea on Saturday would end Arsenal’s hopes of a return to the Premier League top four. The Gunners welcome their London rivals to the Emirates Stadium knowing a loss to Maurizio Sarri’s Blues would leave them nine points adrift of the Champions League places. After enjoying a 22-game unbeaten run…
Paper round-up: West Ham could go for Uruguay star as Arnautovic’s replacement
Embed from Getty Images West Ham are considering activating a release clause in the contract of Celta Vigo striker Maxi Gomez, the Daily Express say. The Uruguay international can reportedly leave the Spanish club for £44m and the Express say West Ham sent representatives to Vigo this week to see if a move could be…
Sarri: Hudson-Odoi ‘is in a positive moment mentally’
Embed from Getty Images Maurizio Sarri says Callum Hudson-Odoi has been unaffected by the doubts over his Chelsea future but that it is “a very difficult moment” for Alvaro Morata. Spanish striker Morata has failed to impress since a big-money move to Stamford Bridge and looks likely to leave during this transfer window. Hudson-Odoi could…
Bournemouth v West Ham: Hammers striker to play, Cherries star faces fitness test
Embed from Getty Images Javier Hernandez is back in the West Ham squad for the trip to Bournemouth. The Mexico striker is fit again after almost a month out with back and hamstring problems. Full-back Ryan Fredericks has returned to training after an ankle injury but Jack Wilshere, Fabian Balbuena, Andriy Yarmolenko, Manuel Lanzini, Winston…
Arsenal v Chelsea: Both managers face key decisions
Arsenal head coach Unai Emery could welcome Mesut Ozil back into his squad for Saturday’s Premier League clash with London rivals Chelsea. Ozil was dropped for last weekend’s 1-0 defeat at West Ham but could feature at the Emirates Stadium this time around. The Gunners have no fresh injury concerns heading into the game with…
Deal close for Arnautovic to leave West Ham
Guangzhou Evergrande are close to signing Marko Arnautovic, who has been left out of the West Ham squad for their game against Bournemouth. The Chinese club are in advanced talks with the Hammers, whose manager Manuel Pellegrini has said will not stop Arnautovic moving if the price is right. West Ham turned down an initial…
Pochettino joins Liverpool manager Klopp in condemning Leeds boss Bielsa
Embed from Getty Images Jurgen Klopp and Mauricio Pochettino believe it is vital managers are allowed to make their final match preparations in privacy in the wake of the ‘Spygate’ row. Pochettino found it difficult to condemn friend and former manager Marcelo Bielsa after the Leeds boss admitted spying on every opponent so far this…
Sarri insists he is ‘not frustrated’ and has confidence in Chelsea transfer chief
Embed from Getty Images Chelsea head coach Maurizio Sarri says he is not pestering director Marina Granovskaia to complete transfer deals. The 60-year-old on Friday declined to be drawn on the possibility of a reunion with Gonzalo Higuain and suggested Alvaro Morata was feeling unsettled by the speculation surrounding his future. Sarri, speaking at his…
Pochettino rules out Spurs signing striker
Mauricio Pochettino has insisted that Tottenham have no interest in signing former Manchester United striker Giuseppe Rossi. Rossi is currently training with United while searching for a new club and reports have linked him with a possible move to Spurs. However, speaking at a press conference on Friday afternoon, Spurs boss Pochettino ruled out a…
Tottenham’s Sissoko ruled out for two weeks
Embed from Getty Images Tottenham midfielder Moussa Sissoko has been ruled out for two weeks with a groin injury. The Frenchman suffered the problem in the defeat against Manchester United on Sunday and looks like missing at least three games. Sissoko joins Harry Kane in the treatment room, with the England international set to be…
Paper round-up: Arsenal fear approaches for three young players
Embed from Getty Images Arsenal fear losing three of their youngsters to German clubs, according to The Independent. Borussia Dortmund signing Jadon Sancho and Bayern Munich pursuing Callum Hudson-Odoi has led to speculation that other young English players could be targeted. The Independent say Arsenal are worried that there could be approaches made for Xavier…
Paper round-up: Two forwards lined up by Spurs
Embed from Getty Images Tottenham are looking to sign a striker on a permanent deal during this transfer window, according to The Independent. The club are reported to have made the decision in light of Harry Kane suffering an ankle injury. The Independent say Barcelona’s Malcom (pictured) and Antonio Sanabria of Real Betis are Spurs’…
Pellegrini ready to let West Ham star go
Manuel Pellegrini says he will not stop Marko Arnautovic moving to China if the price is right. Arnautovic wants to quit West Ham for a big-money move to Shanghai SIPG, who are believed to be offering to almost treble his wages. West Ham have turned down an initial bid and maintain they do not want…
Albion defender could be heading to QPR on loan
Embed from Getty Images QPR could be set to add to their squad with the loan signing of Brighton defender Ezequiel Schelotto. The right-back has been out of favour under Albion boss Chris Hughton this season and Italian outlet TuttoMercatoWeb recently suggested that he could move to the R’s on loan. And Hughton has given…
Merson: Higuain looks past his best
Embed from Getty Images Former Arsenal and England forward Paul Merson has suggested that Chelsea could be making a mistake by signing Gonzalo Higuain. Argentine striker Higuain played at Napoli under Blues boss Maurizio Sarri, who wants to be reunited with him at Stamford Bridge. The player is currently on a season-long at AC Milan…
Crystal Palace poke fun at Leeds United boss Bielsa
Embed from Getty Images Crystal Palace have poked fun at Leeds by tweeting a fake picture of Marcelo Bielsa secretly watching one of their training sessions. Leeds manager Bielsa is at the centre of a spying scandal after admitting he has had training sessions of all of the Championship leaders’ opponents this season watched. The…
Paper round-up: Arsenal and Tottenham eyeing Leeds United star
Embed from Getty Images Arsenal are ready to make Leeds United an offer for highly-rated youngster Jack Clarke, according to the Daily Star. It comes amid much speculation over the future of the 18-year-old, who has been discussing a new contract at Elland Road. The Star say Tottenham are also among a number of Premier…
Arsenal defend Man Utd ticket allocation
Arsenal have defended offering a smaller ticket allocation to Manchester United for their FA Cup fourth-round clash – with a leading fan group for the Red Devils labelling the decision “hypocritical”. United have only been given 8.7 per cent of tickets for the January 25 meeting at the Emirates Stadium – with FA Cup rules…
Some of the stats behind Cech’s remarkable spells at Chelsea and Arsenal
Embed from Getty Images Petr Cech will end his playing career after this season with the Premier League’s record for clean sheets under his belt. Here’s a look at some of the other statistics behind Cech’s remarkable career with Chelsea and Arsenal. Clean sheets Cech last season became the first keeper to reach 200 clean…
Cech to consider options – and could well return to Chelsea
Embed from Getty Images Petr Cech will take time to consider what to do next when he sets aside his goalkeeping gloves and protective head wear this summer. The 36-year-old, who joined Arsenal from Chelsea in June 2015, announced on Tuesday that he will retire from playing at the end of the season. Cech has…
Paper round-up: Arsenal eyeing £3m deal for Colombia star
Embed from Getty Images Arsenal want to sign James Rodriguez, the Daily Mail say. The Colombian midfielder is out of favour at Bayern Munich, where he is on a two-year loan from Real Madrid. The Mail suggest Bayern are looking to offload him and that he could be available for £3m. Meanwhile, there continues to…
Paper round-up: Eriksen unlikely to agree Tottenham deal, AS say
Embed from Getty Images There continues to be speculation over the future of Christian Eriksen. The Tottenham midfielder has been discussing a new contract with the club amid reports linking him with a potential move to Real Madrid. Spanish newspaper AS say it has been told by a source close to the player that an…
The five options for Spurs with Kane sidelined
Embed from Getty Images Tottenham striker Harry Kane is out until March with an ankle injury. What at the alternatives for boss Mauricio Pochettino? Fernando Llorente The former Swansea striker has not scored in the Premier League this season and has netted just once in the top flight for Spurs. He has only started one…
The highlights of Cech’s remarkable career
Embed from Getty Images Petr Cech has decided to finish his career at Arsenal, after announcing his decision to retire at the end of the season. The 36-year-old has made 443 Premier League appearances for Arsenal and Chelsea, since moving to the English top-flight in 2004 and has won 14 trophies during his time in…
Shock claim that Kante or Jorginho could leave Chelsea
Embed from Getty Images A football finance expert has predicted that N’Golo Kante or Jorginho could end up leaving Chelsea if Leandro Paredes arrives at the club. Blues boss Maurizio Sarri wants a replacement for Cesc Fabregas, who recently left for Monaco. Reports suggest that Chelsea are edging towards a deal to sign Zenit St…
Glowing tributes to Cech as Arsenal’s Chelsea legend announces he will retire
Embed from Getty Images Former managers, team-mates and clubs have paid glowing tributes to Petr Cech after the Arsenal goalkeeper announced that he will retire at the end of the season. Cech who won four Premier League titles, four FA Cups, the Champions League, the Europa League and three League Cups with Chelsea, will hang…
Four possible signings for Spurs with Kane facing spell out injured
Embed from Getty Images Tottenham fear Harry Kane could face several weeks on the sidelines with an ankle injury. The England striker suffered the injury towards the end of the weekend defeat at home to Manchester United and a spell without him would be a huge blow for Spurs. Fernando Llorente is the current back-up…
Tottenham among clubs linked with Dutch youngster
Embed from Getty Images Tottenham are among Premier League clubs interested in Club Brugge winger Arnaut Danjuma Groeneveld, according to the Daily Mail. Liverpool and Everton are also said to be keen on the Netherlands international, who has also been linked with AC Milan. The 21-year-old is currently out with an ankle injury but Dutch…
Impressive Arsenal youngsters destroy Man City
Embed from Getty Images Arsenal’s development side thrashed Manchester City 5-1 in a brilliant display on Monday evening. Bukayo Saka (pictured) scored twice and there were also goals for Robbie Burton, Joe Willock and Xavier Amaechi in a one-sided match. Elsewhere in Premier League 2, Chelsea lost 2-0 to leaders Everton and played most of…
Lampard: Leeds United spying tactics would not have happened at Chelsea
Frank Lampard “does not believe” spying tactics were employed during his time at Chelsea. Speaking three days after reacting furiously to Leeds manager Marcelo Bielsa employing someone to watch Derby’s training session ahead of their game, Lampard said he would leave it to the authorities to decide if any action would be taken. Shortly after…
Dembele on the verge of completing move from Spurs
Embed from Getty Images Mousa Dembele’s Tottenham career appears to be over after he left the country to seal a move to the Chinese Super League. The 31-year-old is out of contract in the summer and Spurs look set to cash in this month, with a switch to Beijing Guoan close to being sorted. Dembele,…
Ancelotti insists Allan is staying at Napoli
Embed from Getty Images Tottenham target Allan will not be moving during this month’s transfer window, according to Napoli boss Carlo Ancelotti. The midfielder’s performances for the Naples side this season have attracted interest from a number of clubs. He has been on Spurs’ radar and has also been linked with Manchester City. However, Sky…
Tottenham will have to wait for verdict on Kane injury
Embed from Getty Images Tottenham will wait for swelling to go down on Harry Kane’s ankle injury before being able to find out the full extent of it. Kane suffered the problem in the final stages of Sunday’s 1-0 defeat to Manchester United and will be scanned once the injury has settled down. It is…
Sarri gives major hint that Ampadu is set for greater involvement at Chelsea
Embed from Getty Images Maurizio Sarri has insisted that Chelsea need to sign a replacement for Cesc Fabregas. But if they don’t, the Blues boss could turn to youngster Ethan Ampadu. Head coach Sarri recently revealed that Chelsea would not sign a replacement for Gary Cahill if the defender leaves and would instead move youngster…
Paper round-up: Emery keen for Arsenal to offload Ozil
Embed from Getty Images Unai Emery wants Arsenal to find a club for Mesut Ozil during this month’s transfer window, the Daily Mail say. It comes amid continued speculation over the future of the German, who was again dropped by Gunners boss Emery at the weekend. Emery is keen to make signings and the Mail…
Video: Solskjaer hails Man Utd keeper after win at Spurs
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says David De Gea is the best keeper in the world, and challenging Peter Schemeichel and Edwin van der Sar as the best United keeper ever, after the Spaniard singlehandedly kept Spurs at bay in a 1-0 win at Wembley. Marcus Rashford scored the game’s only goal, Manchester United’s sixth successive win…
Pochettino ‘worried’ about Kane ankle injury
Embed from Getty Images Tottenham will nervously wait to find out the extent of Harry Kane’s ankle injury, with boss Mauricio Pochettino admitting he is “worried”. Kane suffered the problem during Tottenham’s 1-0 defeat to Manchester United at Wembley on Sunday as he received treatment at the end of the game and walked off extremely…
Fans on Twitter criticise Trippier after Spurs defeat
Embed from Getty Images Kieran Tripper’s mistake proved costly for Tottenham as they were beaten 1-0 by Manchester United at Wembley. The result was a big blow to Spurs’ title hopes and continued Trippier’s indifferent form this season. Trippier made a big impression for England at the World Cup but his club performances since then…
Cleverley: Watford out to prove doubters wrong
Embed from Getty Images Tom Cleverley says Watford want to prove the doubters wrong after his superb volley against Crystal Palace moved them up to seventh in the Premier League table. Cleverley netted just six minutes after he was introduced as a second-half substitute at Selhurst Park as the Hornets completed a 2-1 fightback. Watford…
West Ham star urged to shoot more
Embed from Getty Images Declan Rice revealed how his West Ham team-mates have been urging him to try his luck in front of goal after he finally opened his account against Arsenal. Midfielder Rice, who turns 20 on Monday, grabbed his first career goal on his 55th appearance for the Hammers. It was a vital…
Harris slams players for switching off in Millwall defeat
Embed from Getty Images Neil Harris criticised his Millwall side for switching off after Blackburn grabbed two late goals in a 2-0 victory at The Den. The game look destined for a draw before substitute Adam Armstrong’s cross was deflected by Millwall skipper Shaun Hutchinson, under pressure from Joe Nuttall, into his own net after…
Emery defends team selection and Pellegrini is unsure whether Arnautovic will stay
Embed from Getty Images Unai Emery suggested Mesut Ozil did not deserve a place in Arsenal’s squad as he sat out Saturday’s Premier League defeat at West Ham. The Gunners’ highest-paid player has returned to full training over the last week following a knee problem, but was left out of Emery’s travelling party completely as…
Did Arnautovic wave goodbye to West Ham?
Embed from Getty Images Marko Arnautovic was named in the starting line-up for West Ham’s Premier League clash with Arsenal just days after his brother claimed the Austria international wanted to leave the London Stadium. While a January move to the Chinese Super League could still materialise, Hammers boss Manuel Pellegrini kept faith in the…
Sarri keen to avoid Chelsea’s longest drought since 1996 but says Newcastle will be ‘difficult’
Embed from Getty Images Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri has admitted that his side’s problems in front of goal must be addressed against Newcastle today. The Blues dominated the second half of their Carabao Cup semi-final first leg defeat against Tottenham in midweek but were unable to find the net. It was the second game in…
Nasri ‘wants revenge’, says West Ham boss ahead of Arsenal clash
Embed from Getty Images Samir Nasri will continue on his “revenge” mission when he faces former club Arsenal on Saturday, according to West Ham boss Manuel Pellegrini. Nasri is poised to make his Premier League debut for West Ham in the lunchtime clash at the London Stadium. The former France international signed for West Ham…
Tottenham manager Pochettino praises Levy
Embed from Getty Images Mauricio Pochettino has hailed the hardball negotiation skills of chairman Daniel Levy, which Manchester United could get a taste of this summer if they pursue the Tottenham manager. Pochettino is understood to be United’s first choice to take over from Ole Gunnar Solskjaer once the Norwegian’s caretaker stint at Old Trafford…
Crystal Palace v Watford: Eagles star hoping to be passed fit, Hornets duo eyeing return
Embed from Getty Images Crystal Palace’s Christian Benteke could return to Crystal Palace’s squad for the Premier League clash with Watford. Benteke has been absent since September 1 with a knee injury but boss Roy Hodgson has revealed the Belgium striker is in contention to face the Hornets. Nya Kirby and Alexander Sorloth have been…
Tottenham v Man Utd: Spurs star faces fitness test, United trio set to miss out
Tottenham will assess Lucas Moura for the visit of Manchester United. The Brazil forward missed the midweek Carabao Cup win over Chelsea with a knee injury and will face a fitness test ahead of Sunday’s game. Eric Dier (appendicitis) and Victor Wanyama (knee) miss out, while Jan Vertonghen and Mousa Dembele are back in training…
West Ham v Arsenal: More injury woe for Hammers, Gunners stars returning
Embed from Getty Images Fabian Balbuena is the latest addition to West Ham’s long-term injury list ahead of the visit of Arsenal. The Paraguayan defender resumed training this week after a knee problem but suffered a setback and has now undergone surgery which will rule him out for up to eight weeks. It remains to…
Arsenal youngster insists he can perform key role
Embed from Getty Images Ainsley Maitland-Niles believes he can be the answer to Arsenal’s search for a new winger. The Gunners have been linked with the likes of Denis Suarez of Barcelona and Dalian Yifang’s Yannick Carrasco, but head coach Unai Emery has admitted the club have no money to make permanent signings and will…
Wolves boss refuses to discuss Tammy Abraham
Embed from Getty Images Boss Nuno Espirito Santo has refused to discuss Wolves’ failed bid for Tammy Abraham. The Chelsea striker was expected to end his temporary stay at Aston Villa and move to Molineux on loan. But the 21-year-old is remaining at Villa Park, having scored 16 goals in 20 games this term, despite…
Man Utd boss wary of threat from Spurs star
Embed from Getty Images Ole Gunnar Solskjaer wants Manchester United to limit Harry Kane’s opportunities in front of goal at Wembley this weekend as he knows all about the Tottenham striker’s prowess. Kane has found the net in each of his last six matches while his latest strike – a penalty in the midweek Carabao…
Chelsea target not for sale ‘at any price’
Embed from Getty Images Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe has declared that he would not be willing to sell striker Callum Wilson “at any price”. Chelsea are keen on the England international and are reportedly willing to pay as much as £50m for him if they are unable to land Gonzalo Higuain. Argentine forward Higuain, who…
Paper round-up: Benitez set to block West Ham move for Newcastle star
Embed from Getty Images West Ham are considering making a move for Jonjo Shelvey but are likely to face resistance from Newcastle boss Rafael Benitez, according to the Daily Mail. Shelvey has only made 12 appearances for Newcastle this season and is currently struggling with a thigh problem. The Mail say West Ham are interested…
Boss confirms there will be no signings at Watford
Embed from Getty Images Watford manager Javi Gracia will be ambitious with the players he has at his disposal after ruling out a move into the transfer market. Fringe striker Stefano Okaka completed his temporary switch to Udinese earlier this week, while defender Marvin Zeegelaar is also poised to join the Serie A club. There…
‘Ridiculous’ – Chelsea’s striker pursuit leaves some fans far from happy
Embed from Getty Images Chelsea are reportedly ready to spend as much as £50m on Bournemouth striker Callum Wilson. Reports suggests the Blues will pay big money for England international Wilson if they are unable to agree a deal for Gonzalo Higuain. That deal looks far from straightforward as Higuain, who previously played under Chelsea…
Pochettino’s mixed record against Man Utd
Embed from Getty Images Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino is preparing to face Manchester United, a club with which he continues to be heavily linked, at Wembley in the Premier League this weekend. Here’s a look at how the Argentinian has fared against the Red Devils during his time as a manager in England. Overall record…
Ranieri confirms Fosu-Mensah is set to return to United
Embed from Getty Images Fulham manager Claudio Ranieri has confirmed that Timothy Fosu-Mensah is set to return to Manchester United. The right-back has struggled to hold down a first-team place since arriving in west London from United on a season-long loan during the summer. That loan deal is now set to be terminated, paving the…
Arnautovic tells West Ham he wants to leave
Embed from Getty Images Marko Arnautovic has told West Ham he wants to leave. It comes amid reports that a Chinese club are keen to sign the Austrian forward. In a statement released to Talksport, the player’s brother Danijel Arnautovic, who also acts as his agent, said the club should let him go. Danijel Arnautovic…
Paper round-up: Star link Liverpool and Man Utd with Eriksen
There continues to be speculation over the future of Tottenham midfielder Christian Eriksen. The likes of Real Madrid have been linked with the Dane, who has been in negotiations over a new Spurs contract. The Daily Star have now sought to link him with Manchester United and Liverpool. The story is based on Kieran Maguire,…
Chelsea legend Lampard tells Hudson-Odoi he needs to stay at the Bridge
Embed from Getty Images Frank Lampard says Callum Hudson-Odoi should ignore interest from Bayern Munich and stay at Chelsea. Bayern are keen to snap up the 18-year-old, who has reportedly told Chelsea he wants to make the move. His contract expires next year and he has been offered a new deal at Stamford Bridge. But…
Former Tottenham star Jenas says Hazard is too good for Chelsea
Embed from Getty Images Eden Hazard is “too good for Chelsea” and has outgrown the team, according to former England midfielder Jermaine Jenas. Belgian playmaker Hazard again impressed during the Blues’ 1-0 defeat by Spurs in the first leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final at Wembley, where he was deployed once more as a false…
Tottenham stadium move delayed further
Tottenham will stay at Wembley until at least the end of February as their wait to move into their new stadium goes on. Spurs’ Premier League home games with Watford, Newcastle and Leicester will all be at the national stadium as the finishing touches are put on their 62,000-seater home. The Champions League last-16 home…
Paper round-up: Tottenham reportedly showing interest in Wolves star
Embed from Getty Images Tottenham are said to have been monitoring Wolves full-back Matt Doherty. The Irish Independent claim Spurs have shown an interest in the Dublin-born defender but that he could have his wages doubled at Wolves. It comes as Doherty, 26 is negotiating a new contract at the Midlands club. Meanwhile, the Daily…
Spurs hold on against Chelsea – five things we learned from the cup clash
Embed from Getty Images Tottenham beat Chelsea 1-0 in Tuesday night’s Carabao Cup semi-final first leg at Wembley. It sets up the second leg at Stamford Bridge nicely and both sides can feel confident about their chances. Selection and tactics Mauricio Pochettino chose a near full-strength line-up, with Dele Alli again behind a front two…
Tottenham and Chelsea warn fans ahead of Wembley clash
Embed from Getty Images Tottenham and Chelsea have cautioned supporters to behave in Tuesday night’s Carabao Cup semi-final first leg at Wembley after recent incidents of discriminatory behaviour. Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino and Blues counterpart Maurizio Sarri called for the supporters to get behind their own teams, rather than focus their energies on taunting the…
Massive boost for Ampadu in his pursuit of first-team spot
Embed from Getty Images Ethan Ampadu will replace Gary Cahill in the Chelsea squad if the defender leaves. Centre-back Cahill is expected to move on during this month’s transfer window, having lost his regular place in the side since Maurizio Sarri took over as Blues boss. With Ruben Loftus-Cheek out with a back injury, Sarri…
Manning convinced he can secure QPR place
Embed from Getty Images Ryan Manning believes he is ready to secure a regular first-team place at QPR. The Irish midfielder was recently recalled from a season-long loan at Rotherham because of Geoff Cameron’s injury and Massimo Luongo’s involvement for Australia at the Asian Cup. He was a substitute for Sunday’s FA Cup tie against…
Paper round-up: Arsenal set to beat Man Utd to signing of Belgium star
Embed from Getty Images Arsenal are on course to beat Manchester United to the signing of Belgium forward Yannick Carrasco, according to reports. The 25-year-old has been tipped to leave Chinese Super League side Dalian Yifang, who signed him from Atletico Madrid in February last year. He was linked with Chelsea prior to that move…
Paper round-up: Real reportedly begin move to snap up Tottenham star
Real Madrid have begun a move to try to sign Christian Eriksen, according to The Independent. Real have long been linked with the Danish midfielder, who has been discussing a new contract with Tottenham. The Independent say Real have “made initial steps” in pursuit of Eriksen and that the Spanish club hope to eventually sign…
Sarri and Pochettino appeal to fans ahead of derby clash
Embed from Getty Images Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri has called for the club’s fans to support their team and not sing offensive songs about opponents Tottenham on Tuesday night. Blues fans have been under the spotlight in recent weeks after a number of high-profile incidents including a derogatory chant about Spurs supporters, featuring alleged anti-Semitic…
Tottenham v Chelsea: Spurs star out and Blues trio face fitness tests
Lucas Moura will be missing for Tottenham in the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg against Chelsea. Moura picked up a knee injury in Friday’s 7-0 win at Tranmere in the FA Cup and will play no part in the London derby. Erik Lamela has recovered from illness, but Eric Dier (appendicitis) and Victor Wanyama (knee)…
Man Utd man admits Spurs will be tough test
Embed from Getty Images Phil Jones believes next weekend’s clash with Tottenham will test the strength of Manchester United’s recent revival. United have won their last five matches in all competitions since Ole Gunnar Solskjaer came in as caretaker manager following the sacking of Jose Mourinho last month. Spurs, who are third in the Premier…
Chelsea star issues defiant message after yet another setback
Embed from Getty Images Ruben Loftus-Cheek has declared that he “will overcome” his latest setback. The England midfielder is desperate to prove he is worthy of a regular place in the Chelsea first team under Maurizio Sarri. However, a back problem has seriously hampered him this season – and struck again on Saturday. Loftus-Cheek was…
Paper round-up: Barcelona unwilling to let Arsenal target go
Embed from Getty Images Barcelona do not want to sell Denis Suarez to Arsenal this month, it is claimed. The Spain midfielder has been been offered to Premier League clubs and a deal has been discussed for him to move to the Emirates Stadium. The Daily Mirror say Barca are playing hardball and that Arsenal…
Arsenal star reckons Emery has been given selection headache
Arsenal’s youngsters are giving manager Unai Emery a headache, according to forward Alex Iwobi. Joe Willock scored twice in Saturday’s 3-0 FA Cup victory over Blackpool, while fellow 19-year-old Eddie Nketiah also started and impressed along with 21-year-old Ainsley Maitland-Niles. The average age of the side was reduced even further when 17-year-old Bukayo Saka replaced…
Others look set to follow Sylla out of QPR
Embed from Getty Images QPR have offloaded Idrissa Sylla – and more players could be set to follow him out of Loftus Road, albeit on loan. Striker Sylla’s Rangers career is over after he completed a permanent move to Belgian club Zulte Waregem. And West London Sport reports that decisions will be taken on the…
Paper round-up: Italy’s ‘worst player’ offered to West Ham
Embed from Getty Images West Ham have reportedly been given the chance to sign Inter Milan flop Gabriel Barbosa. The Sun on Sunday say the Brazilian, who has been dubbed ‘Serie A’s worst player’, has been offered to the Hammers as a potential signing. Barbosa, 22, has been tipped to leave Inter during this month’s…
Arnautovic ‘angry’ at being taken off by West Ham boss
Embed from Getty Images Manuel Pellegrini admitted Marko Arnautovic was “angry” at being substituted during West Ham’s 2-0 FA Cup win over Birmingham. Arnautovic opened the scoring after just two minutes but looked stunned to be taken off by Pellegrini in the 20th minute. Hammers boss Pellegrini said the Austria forward had indicated that he…
Zola’s message for Chelsea fans unhappy about Hudson-Odoi’s possible exit
Embed from Getty Images Gianfranco Zola says he understands the frustration many Chelsea fans are feeling over the possibility of Callum Hudson-Odoi leaving the club, but that the youngster needs to prove he is worth a place in the team. Bayern Munich are keen to land the 18-year-old, who has impressed hugely when given a…
Zola warns Chelsea players ahead of Nottingham Forest clash
Embed from Getty Images Gianfanco Zola has warned Chelsea’s players that Nottingham Forest should not be underestimated. The Blues face the Championship side in the FA Cup at Stamford Bridge, where they will be firm favourites to reach the fourth round. However, speaking at a press conference ahead of the game, Chelsea assistant boss Zola…
Blackpool manager hoping they get lucky against Arsenal
Embed from Getty Images Blackpool boss Terry McPhillips is under no illusion that his team will be “massive underdogs” when they welcome Arsenal to Bloomfield Road in the FA Cup third round. The Sky Bet League One side produced a bullish display when the clubs met at the Emirates Stadium in the Carabao Cup last…
Pochettino says Spurs are unlikely make signings
Embed from Getty Images Mauricio Pochettino conceded that Tottenham are unlikely to make any January acquisitions after running amok in the FA Cup at Tranmere. What could have been a tricky trip to a sold-out Prenton Park ended in the most comprehensive of away wins thanks to a devastating second-half display by Spurs. Serge Aurier…
Hudson-Odoi told to be patient and stick with Chelsea
Embed from Getty Images Gianfranco Zola has told Callum Hudson-Odoi to be patient and wait for his chance at Chelsea. Hudson-Odoi is reportedly a target for Bayern Munich and is mulling over his options, including an offer to extend his Chelsea contract, which expires in June 2020. The England youth international is fit again following…
Pellegrini: ‘Important’ Carroll is set to stay at West Ham
Embed from Getty Images Manuel Pellegrini does not expect West Ham to sell Andy Carroll this January. Carroll’s future remains uncertain as he turns 30 on Sunday and only has a contract until the end of the season. The injury-hit striker has figured only sparingly this term and made his first start in a year…
Tottenham tie is ‘massive’ for Tranmere – boss
Embed from Getty Images Tranmere boss Micky Mellon has no doubt Friday’s FA Cup third-round tie against Tottenham is “massive” in terms of helping the League Two club continue rebuilding. Rovers sealed a return to League Two via the National League play-offs last term – their third season in the division following the back-to-back relegations…
Arsenal boss Emery keen to avoid ‘dark day’ against Blackpool
Unai Emery insists his Arsenal side will show respect to Blackpool as he looks to avoid a “dark day” when he takes charge of his first FA Cup tie on Saturday. The Spaniard replaced Arsene Wenger – the most successful manager in the history of the FA Cup with seven wins – last summer and…
Arsenal boss Emery rules out move for Real Madrid keeper
Embed from Getty Images Arsenal head coach Unai Emery has ruled out a January move for Real Madrid goalkeeper Keylor Navas. The 32-year-old Costa Rica international has been recently linked with a switch to the Emirates Stadium with former Chelsea man Thibaut Courtois now established as first-choice at Madrid. The Gunners signed Bernd Leno last…
Noble pleased after West Ham hit back against bogey team Brighton
Embed from Getty Images West Ham captain Mark Noble was relieved to end the busy festive period on a positive note. The Hammers, playing their eighth match since the start of December, came from two goals down to draw 2-2 against “bogey team” Brighton. West Ham were staring at a fourth loss in four meetings…
Paper round-up: Chelsea’s Cahill set to choose between Fulham, West Ham and Watford
Embed from Getty Images The Daily Mirror say Chelsea defender Gary Cahill is likely to sign for Fulham, West Ham or Watford. Cahill is expected to leave Stamford Bridge during this month’s transfer window and has also been linked with Arsenal. West London Sport reported last month that Fulham were looking to sign Cahill, whose…
Paper round-up: Eriksen set to more than double his wages
Tottenham are prepared to more than double Christian Eriksen’s wages in order to get him to sign a new contract, according to the Daily Mail. The Danish midfielder has kept his options open so far and his current contract expires in 2020. Barcelona and Real Madrid are said to be interested in Eriksen, who scored…
Tottenham star Kane hopes Man City beat Liverpool
Harry Kane says Tottenham’s Premier League title focus is on themselves and not on what Liverpool and Manchester City are doing – but hopes City beat the Reds. City and Liverpool meet in a huge showdown on Thursday, with second-placed Spurs able to sit back and relax after their 3-0 win at Cardiff on New…
Pellegrini relieved to get point but slates West Ham’s defending against Brighton
Embed from Getty Images Manuel Pellegrini was unhappy with West Ham’s defending but relieved to escape with a Premier League point against bogey side Brighton. The Hammers were staring at a fourth loss in four meetings with Brighton since they were promoted after goals from Dale Stephens and Shane Duffy, both from corners, put the…
Crystal Palace target another striker after Solanke’s move from Liverpool falls through
Crystal Palace remain in the hunt for striking reinforcements after a loan move for Dominic Solanke collapsed, boss Roy Hodgson confirmed. Jordan Ayew’s first goal of the season and Luka Milivojevic’s penalty secured a late but deserved 2-0 victory for the Eagles at Wolves on Wednesday. The Eagles have scored just 19 times in 21…
Solanke’s move to Crystal Palace from Liverpool breaks down
Embed from Getty Images Dominic Solanke’s proposed loan move to Crystal Palace from Liverpool has reportedly broken down. The Sun say the deal is likely to be scrapped because of doubts over Solanke’s fitness. Roy Hodgson has been relishing the prospect of bringing in the former Chelsea striker – and finally providing Palace with a…
Son sad to be leaving Tottenham’s trophy chase
Embed from Getty Images Son Heung-min admits he is sad to be leaving Tottenham’s trophy chase to play at the Asian Cup. The South Korea forward has been in tremendous form and scored his eighth goal in nine games as Spurs reclaimed second spot in the Premier League with a 3-0 New Year’s Day win…
Aston Villa boss confident Abraham will stay
Embed from Getty Images Aston Villa boss Dean Smith has insisted he has been given no indication that Tammy Abraham wants to leave the club. It follows reports that the striker’s season-long loan from Chelsea could be terminated this month in order for him to join a Premier League club instead. Wolves and Burnley are…
Paper round-up: West Ham considering loan move for Everton man
Embed from Getty Images West Ham are considering a loan move for Everton midfielder James McCarthy, according to the Daily Mail. McCarthy is out of favour at Goodison Park and could move on this month in order to play first-team football. He has made 132 appearances for the Merseyside club and scored six goals in…
Palace boss Hodgson not concerned by lack of goals
Roy Hodgson has dismissed suggestions Crystal Palace have lost their creative streak as they prepare to visit Wolves on Wednesday. Palace defended impressively on Sunday to limit Chelsea to only one goal in a 1-0 defeat when a wider margin of victory had been expected, but having fallen behind they also offered so little in…
Pellegrini admits Brighton clash is a tough task for injury-hit West Ham
Manuel Pellegrini would usually relish another league match so soon after a defeat but West Ham’s injury crisis makes Wednesday’s match against Brighton another headache for the manager. West Ham’s momentum was slowed on Sunday when they were beaten 2-0 by Burnley at Turf Moor, a disappointing end to a lucrative December which yielded 15…
Kane completes the set as Tottenham crush Cardiff
Embed from Getty Images Harry Kane ended his Cardiff hoodoo as Tottenham stayed in the Premier League title picture with a 3-0 win in the Welsh capital. Kane had previously scored at least once against 27 of the 28 Premier League opponents he had faced, with Cardiff the solitary team he had failed to net…
Harris says ‘choice words’ after ‘horrendous’ first half did the trick for Millwall against Ipswich
Embed from Getty Images Millwall boss Neil Harris got the response he wanted to his half-time team talk as the Lions scored three second-half goals at Ipswich to round off a successful festive period. Harris’ men trailed to Jack Lankester’s strike at the interval before goals from Shane Ferguson, Jake Cooper and Tom Elliott in…
Wolves v Crystal Palace: Eagles changes likely, Wolves duo doubtful
Crystal Palace boss Roy Hodgson could consider rotating his starting XI for the game at Wolves, after watching them struggle to create in the 1-0 defeat to Chelsea. Vicente Guaita is expected to retain his place in goal ahead of the fit-again Wayne Hennessey but striker Connor Wickham is pushing to start after successive substitute…
Wickham hoping 2019 marks end of injury nightmare
Embed from Getty Images Crystal Palace striker Connor Wickham has tempered his targets for 2019, with fitness his first objective. Rather than set a goal target, Wickham is just keen to play more after two years out with a serious knee injury. “I’ve not really set myself any targets this year,” Wickham said. “Every year…
Willian in no rush to discuss new Chelsea deal
Embed from Getty Images Willian has insisted he is in no rush to resolve his long-term future. While the spotlight has been on Eden Hazard, whose Chelsea contract expires next year, Willian’s Blues deal is up then as well. The Brazilian previously revealed he would have left Stamford Bridge had ex-boss Antonio Conte stayed in…
Lloris targeting silverware with Tottenham in 2019
Hugo Lloris is hoping 2019 will be the year he finally lifts some silverware with Tottenham. Spurs continue to make progress under manager Mauricio Pochettino but are looking to end a trophy drought which stretches back to their League Cup triumph in 2008. They have slipped nine points behind leaders Liverpool in the Premier League…
Valencia keen on Hernandez but need to ship out Batshuayi
Embed from Getty Images Valencia appear to be interested in West Ham striker Javier Hernandez – but a deal is likely to hinge on whether the Spanish club can offload Michy Batshuayi. Chelsea striker Batshuayi has failed to impress in Spain since moving on loan and reports have suggested that Valencia would like to terminate…
Pepe hints at potential move from Lille this summer
Embed from Getty Images Arsenal transfer target Nicolas Pepe has suggested that he could leave Lille at the end of the season. Manchester City have also been linked with the Ivory Coast winger, as have Barcelona. Pepe, who can play through the middle as well as out wide, has caught the eye with his performances…
Tiredness caused Spurs’ collapse against Wolves – Pochettino
Embed from Getty Images Mauricio Pochettino blamed Tottenham’s Christmas fixture schedule for their collapse against Wolves. Harry Kane had celebrated his new year MBE in style with a stunning goal in the first half that put Spurs ahead. But the striker’s hopes of claiming another medal at the end of the season receded dramatically after…
Anderson is ready to learn – Pellegrini
Quick learner Felipe Anderson’s readiness to take advice has proved central to his fine Premier League form, according to Manuel Pellegrini. Anderson has now fired seven goals in his last nine games for West Ham, including the pair that sealed Thursday’s 2-1 Premier League victory at Southampton. The 25-year-old has found his feet and then…
Paper round-up: Solanke set to snub Brighton and join Crystal Palace
Embed from Getty Images Crystal Palace are hoping to clinch the signing of striker Dominic Solanke on loan from Liverpool, the Daily Mail reports. The Mail say Huddersfield and Palace’s bitter rivals Brighton are also keen to snap up the England Under-21 international, who will apparently make a decision this weekend. The Guardian, however, suggest…
Paper round-up: Deal seemingly close for Arsenal to sign Argentina star
Embed from Getty Images Ever Banega’s agent has flown to London, seemingly to tie up a deal for the Argentina midfielder to join Arsenal. The Sun have picked up on reports in Spain that discussions are set to take place ahead of a deal for Banega to move to the Emirates Stadium from Sevilla. He…
Pochettino: Spurs will learn from Leicester experience and be ‘professional’ in title race
Tottenham’s experience of coming up against Leicester in the 2015-16 title race means they will remain humble this time around, says boss Mauricio Pochettino. Spurs have made themselves potential Premier League champions this season after a sparkling run of form and sit above Manchester City in second, six points off leaders Liverpool, ahead of Saturday’s…
Chelsea and Arsenal set to miss out on Pulisic
Embed from Getty Images Liverpool are set to win the race to sign Borussia Dortmund midfielder Christian Pulisic, according to The Sun. Arsenal and Chelsea have been linked with the United States international, who is reportedly keen to move to the Premier League. There were previously reports that Chelsea were closing in on a deal…
Arsenal boss admits Liverpool star proved him wrong
Embed from Getty Images Unai Emery has revealed he was unconvinced by Mohamed Salah’s ability to shine at a big club when he was presented with the chance to sign the Liverpool forward during his time as Paris St Germain boss. The Gunners head coach will come up against Salah and his team-mates on Saturday,…
QPR have problems ahead of Reading clash
Embed from Getty Images QPR have been in excellent form of late but will be without a number of key players for Saturday’s home game against Reading. Angel Rangel is still out with a thigh injury, while on-loan duo Geoff Cameron and Tomer Hemed also remain sidelined. Cameron suffered ankle ligament damage during the recent…
Fulham v Huddersfield: Whites midfielder close to return, Terriers injuries
Embed from Getty Images Fulham midfielder Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa is the only absentee for Saturday’s Premier League clash with Huddersfield. Anguissa is recovering from an ankle injury but could return in time to face Arsenal on New Year’s Day. Otherwise boss Claudio Ranieri has a fully fit squad from which to select for the relegation…
Crystal Palace v Chelsea: Eagles star close to return, Blues duo set to miss out
Embed from Getty Images Christian Benteke is Crystal Palace’s only injury absentee ahead of the visit of Chelsea but is getting nearer to making his return. The striker remains on the sidelines with a knee injury but is expected back early in the new year. Goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey (back) and full-back Martin Kelly (adductor) are…
Watford v Newcastle: Hornets injury worries, Magpies star to return
Embed from Getty Images Watford will be without Christian Kabasele against Newcastle. The defender was hospitalised after colliding with a goal post during the defeat to Chelsea, though he appears to have escaped serious injury. Will Hughes (hip), Andre Gray (leg), Sebastian Prodl (knee) and Adalberto Penaranda (foot) were all absent on Boxing Day and…
Liverpool v Arsenal: Gunners star could return, Reds duo ruled out
Arsenal are unlikely to be able to welcome back any of their injured players when they travel to Premier League leaders Liverpool on Saturday. Rob Holding (knee), Konstantinos Mavropanos (groin), Hector Bellerin (calf), Henrikh Mkhitaryan (ankle) and Danny Welbeck (ankle) are all out. Defender Shkodran Mustafi is the only man with a slight chance of…
Pellegrini sees bright future for West Ham youngster
Embed from Getty Images Manuel Pellegrini has hailed West Ham teenager Declan Rice’s ability to dismiss any off-field distractions and keep producing top-level performances. Rice ran West Ham’s midfield in Thursday’s 2-1 Premier League win at Southampton, that pushed the Hammers into ninth place in the table. Rice continues to wrestle with his international future,…
Sarri says Hazard’s future is a ‘problem’ Chelsea must solve
Maurizio Sarri has admitted Chelsea must “solve the problem” of Eden Hazard’s long-term future. Belgium star Hazard is out of contract in 2020 and Real Madrid have consistently monitored his situation in the hope of luring him to the Bernabeu. Hazard boasts a league-high direct hand in 19 goals this term, and after netting a…
Paper round-up: Spurs believe Pochettino is more likely to leave for Real than Man Utd
There continues to be speculation over the future of Mauricio Pochettino. The Tottenham boss has been linked with the manager’s job at Manchester United, who reportedly want to install him at the end of the season. But the Daily Telegraph reports that Spurs believe the greater threat comes from Real Madrid, who have also been…
Pellegrini expects even more from Anderson
Embed from Getty Images Manuel Pellegrini has warned West Ham’s rivals that he expects in-form midfielder Felipe Anderson to keep getting better and better. Brazil star Anderson’s six-minute brace sealed West Ham’s 2-1 Premier League win at Southampton, dragging the Hammers up to ninth in the table. The 25-year-old now boasts seven goals in his…
Chelsea boss Sarri defends substitution
Maurizio Sarri has defended his decision to withdraw replacement Callum Hudson-Odoi late on at Watford, insisting the young forward picked up a hamstring injury. Eden Hazard reached 101 goals for Chelsea as the Blues edged out Watford 2-1 at Vicarage Road on Boxing Day, but the travelling fans reacted angrily when Hudson-Odoi was brought off…
Townsend admits Crystal Palace need to be more clinical
Embed from Getty Images Andros Townsend has urged his Crystal Palace team-mates to rediscover their finishing touch after they wasted 31 shots on goal throughout their 0-0 draw with Cardiff. What could have been their third successive Premier League victory, on the back of last week’s stunning 3-2 win at Manchester City, instead ended in…
Match of the Day pundit: Arsenal boss Emery got key decision wrong
Danny Murphy has insisted that Unai Emery got it wrong by taking Mesut Ozil off at half-time against Brighton. Arsenal drew 1-1 at the Amex Stadium, where Ozil was withdrawn for tactical reasons, according to Gunners boss Emery. The visitors were well on top during the opening half an hour of the game but changes…
Neville: Kane is ‘best in the world’ but Bournemouth made it easy
Embed from Getty Images Match of the Day pundit Phil Neville says Tottenham were “brilliant” against Bournemouth but were helped by some woeful defending by the visitors. Mauricio Pochettino’s side have been in superb form and the 5-0 thrashing of the Cherries at Wembley left them second in the Premier League. Son Heung-Min scored two…
Paper round-up: Tottenham could table bid for Norwich prospect
Embed from Getty Images Tottenham could make an offer for Norwich City right-back Max Aarons, according to The Sun. German club RB Leipzig are said to be interested in the 18-year-old, who has impressed for the Canaries this season. The Sun say Spurs are also keen and could table a £15m bid in an attempt…
Emery apologises for kicking bottle against Brighton fan
Unai Emery has apologised after kicking a water bottle against a Brighton supporter towards the end of Arsenal’s 1-1 draw at Brighton. The Gunners manager spoke to the fan immediately and then again at the final whistle. He said: “I said to them apologies because I kicked the bottle after a disappointing action for us…
Frank convinced Brentford away win is close
Embed from Getty Images Head coach Thomas Frank insists Brentford’s first Championship away win of the season is not far away after earning a 1-1 draw at Bristol City. Neal Maupay’s 15th goal of the season cancelled out Eros Pisano’s first in English football as the Bees earned only a sixth point on their travels….
Pochettino: Spurs the right club for big players
Speculation continues about the future of Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino but the Argentinian believes he has created the right environment for players to be able to commit long-term to the club. Sunday’s 6-2 win at Everton moved Spurs to within two points of second-placed Manchester City, themselves four behind Premier League leaders Liverpool, and they…
Hodgson hopeful Benteke will return soon
Embed from Getty Images Roy Hodgson hopes Christian Benteke will be back in action for Crystal Palace early in the new year. The Belgium striker, who has made just four appearances this season, underwent knee surgery in October. The 28-year-old is making encouraging progress and, while a Christmas return has been ruled out, a January…
Brighton v Arsenal: Gunners injury latest, Albion star set to return
Arsenal’s defensive injury crisis is set to continue on Boxing Day with Unai Emery likely to be without as many as five players for the trip to Brighton. Rob Holding (knee), Konstantinos Mavropanos (groin), Nacho Monreal (muscular) and Hector Bellerin (calf) are definitely out. Emery will be hopeful that Shkodran Mustafi can shake off a…
Tottenham v Bournemouth: Spurs midfielders could sit game out, Cherries duo fit
Tottenham midfielder Dele Alli is a doubt for the visit of Bournemouth. The England international was forced off at half-time of Sunday’s 6-2 win over Everton with a minor hamstring problem and may not be risked. Fellow midfielder Moussa Sissoko could be rested after playing all but seven minutes of the last five matches. Provisional…
Watford boss Gracia warns Chelsea have improved
Watford boss Javi Gracia expects to face a vastly different Chelsea to the one his side dispatched last season. The Blues arrived at Vicarage Road in February in Gracia’s first home game in charge of Watford and found themselves on the end of a chastening 4-1 defeat. That victory remains a fond memory for Gracia…
Pochettino on what Spurs need in order to challenge Man City and Liverpool
Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino admits his side need to improve their consistency if they are to mount a title bid. A 6-2 thrashing of Everton moved Spurs to within two points of second-placed Manchester City and six behind leaders Liverpool. It was their seventh Premier League victory in the last eight matches – with only…
Arsenal boss Emery expects Brighton to adopt similar tactics to Burnley
Unai Emery expects Brighton to pose a similar physical challenge to Burnley as the Arsenal head coach aims for a Boxing Day victory at the AMEX Stadium. The Gunners secured a 3-1 win over Burnley on Saturday with striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who scored twice, claiming he had never played in a game that was as…
Sarri to show Chelsea players video nasty
Maurizio Sarri will show his Chelsea players a video nasty of their defeat to Leicester in a bid to eradicate a creeping error count. Chelsea lost 1-0 to Leicester in Saturday’s Premier League clash at Stamford Bridge, leaving the fourth-placed Blues 11 points behind leaders Liverpool. Jamie Vardy’s neat finish sealed victory in a match…
McCarthy hopeful Rice will stick with Ireland
Embed from Getty Images Mick McCarthy remains hopeful West Ham teenager Declan Rice will pledge his future to the Republic of Ireland. The London-born 19-year-old has already been capped for the Republic but has not been involved in any competitive fixtures while he considers playing for England instead. McCarthy, who began his second spell as…
McClaren proud after QPR give perfect response to Robinson’s claim about Nottingham Forest
Embed from Getty Images Steve McClaren was full of praise for his QPR players after seeing them secure a historic 1-0 victory at Nottingham Forest – their first-ever win at the City Ground. In 34 previous meetings at the stadium between the two sides, stretching back to 1934, QPR had suffered 20 defeats while collecting…
Gracia hails Watford star as Pellegrini insists West Ham were unlucky
Embed from Getty Images Watford boss Javi Gracia saluted Troy Deeney after the striker floored West Ham and a corner flag. The Hornets skipper slammed home a first-half penalty and Gerard Deulofeu added a late second to stun West Ham 2-0 and scupper their bid to win five matches on the spin. Deeney, relishing his…
Guardiola defends team selection after Crystal Palace beat Man City
Embed from Getty Images Pep Guardiola defended his selection and refused to blame individuals after Manchester City suffered a shock loss to Crystal Palace on Saturday. The Premier League champions were stunned as the Eagles came from behind to win 3-2 at the Etihad Stadium and leave City trailing leaders Liverpool by four points at…
Sarri insists Chelsea’s Christensen is not for sale
Embed from Getty Images Maurizio Sarri has insisted that Andreas Christensen will not be sold by Chelsea. The Danish central defender, 22, has become a fringe player under Sarri and both Christensen and his father have suggested he will look to move on in January. But Sarri’s message is clear: Christensen is not for sale….
Emery insists Ozil has a future at Arsenal – but won’t rule out selling him
Head coach Unai Emery believes Mesut Ozil has a future at Arsenal – but did not rule out a move away after insisting the German will not be given special treatment just because he is the highest-paid player at the club. Ozil did not make the substitutes bench for the Carabao Cup quarter-final defeat to…
Arsenal v Burnley: Eight Gunners players could miss out, Clarets have injury worries too
Arsenal could be without up to eight players for Saturday’s Premier League visit of Burnley. Head coach Unai Emery may shake thing s up after two defeats in a row, including Wednesday’s Carabao Cup quarter-final loss to Tottenham. Danny Welbeck (ankle), Rob Holding (knee), Konstantinos Mavropanos (groin), Emile Smith Rowe (hip), Hector Bellerin (calf) and…
Everton v Tottenham: Spurs stars out as key Everton players are passed fit
Tottenham have no fresh injury concerns for the Premier League trip to Everton. Jan Vertonghen (thigh), Eric Dier (appendicitis), Mousa Dembele (ankle), Serge Aurier (groin) and Victor Wanyama (knee) miss out again. Harry Kane will come back into the side after he started Wednesday’s Carabao Cup game on the bench, with Hugo Lloris also set…
Emery: Ozil has Arsenal future and is back in for Burnley game
Unai Emery has revealed Mesut Ozil will return to the Arsenal squad for Saturday’s Premier League visit of Burnley and believes he has a future at the Emirates Stadium. Ozil did not make the substitutes bench for the Carabao Cup quarter-final defeat to rivals Tottenham in midweek and has been on the fringes of the…
Sarri spells out why Drinkwater can’t get a game at Chelsea
Embed from Getty Images Maurizio Sarri says Danny Drinkwater is not suitable for the way Chelsea play under him. Midfielder Drinkwater, signed from Leicester City in 2017, has not featured at all under Blues boss Sarri this season. And there is clearly no future for him at Stamford Bridge, where boss Sarri has several other…
Watford boss vows to protect Quina
Embed from Getty Images Watford manager Javi Gracia has vowed to protect man-of-the-moment Domingos Quina ahead of his return to West Ham. Quina, 19, became Watford’s youngest ever Premier League scorer in the club’s 3-2 victory against Cardiff last weekend. West Ham sold the Portuguese midfielder for £1million on deadline day, and Hammers boss Manuel…
Chelsea boss Sarri keen to set Hazard free
Embed from Getty Images Maurizio Sarri wants Eden Hazard to be “free” for Chelsea. The 27-year-old Belgium playmaker has been deployed as the Blues’ ‘false nine’ for the last two Premier League games – wins over holders Manchester City and at Brighton – and is set to feature in the position against Leicester on Saturday….
Paper round-up: Speculation over Ozil’s future continues
There continues to be speculation over the future of Arsenal’s Mesut Ozil. The Daily Mirror say Arsenal want to sell the German, who is under contract until 2021, but may struggle to do so. The newspaper say Arsenal will listen to offers for Ozil, who “has become an outcast under Unai Emery” less than a…
QPR star wants his future resolved
Embed from Getty Images QPR defender Jake Bidwell is “unsettled” by apparent uncertainty over his long-term future, Football.London say. Bidwell’s contract at Loftus Road is due to expire at the end of the season and Football.London say he has admitted that “the uncertainty regarding his future left him feeling unsettled.” Bidwell, signed from neighbours Brentford in…