Villas-Boas interest in Porto's Hulk

With Florent Malouda and Salomon Kalou nearing the end of their contracts, the Chelsea boss has said that he 'sees room' at Stamford Bridge for a new, 'explosive' wing player like the Brazilia. Andre Villas-Boas: I see room for an explosive player like Hulk on the wing at Chelsea. The 34-year-old believes that the Brazil international would fit right in at Stamford Bridge and spoke of his relationship with Porto president Pinto da Costa. Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas has admitted that he is interested in bringing Porto striker Hulk to London in the summer. The Portuguese trainer is well aware of Hulk's qualities after coaching the Brazilian forward during his treble-winning 2010-11 season at Porto. Villas-Boas acknowledged that some of Chelsea's players may leave in the summer, which will create room for the club to bring in new faces, with Hulk at the top of his wish list. "We have [Salomon] Kalou and [Florent] Malouda, both of whom are nearing the end of their contracts, while Juan Mata and Daniel Sturridge are the future," he told TSF. "As such, there will surely be a place to fill and I see room for an explosive player on the wing, someone who is strong in one-on-one situations and Hulk fits that profile." The 34-year-old coach was also asked about a potential approach for Alvaro Pereira and Joao Moutinho, who have also been linked with Chelsea in recent times. "They could surely play in the Premier League and at Chelsea," he asserted. Villas-Boas sat next to Porto president Pinto da Costa during the Portuguese club's 4-0 Europa League defeat at Manchester City last week after reports had suggested that the duo had an icy relationship since the coach left for Chelsea in the summer. "I was very proud to be invited by Pinto da Costa to sit next to him," he said. "Returning to Porto will always be a huge source of pride, but right now I am completely motivated with my work at Chelsea."

'I was watching the ball, not the line'

Controversy struck Saturday night's 1-1 draw between AC Milan and Juventus as Muntari had a header for the hosts seemingly cross the line, but Buffon says he felt at the time he had kept the ball out. 'I was watching the ball, not the line' - Buffon after ghost goal in Juventus' draw with AC Milan. Sulley Muntari appeared to have scored for the hosts with a header but the Italy goalkeeper believed that he had kept it out, though he admits that he would not have spoken up. Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has claimed that he was watching the ball and not the line and so did not realise that a mistake had been made in the 'ghost goal' incident against AC Milan on Saturday. A Sulley Muntari header for the Rossoneri appeared to be comfortably in the net, but the Italy international scooped the ball clear and a goal was not awarded, the game eventually finishing 1-1. The 34-year-old stated that he was unsure whether the effort had crossed the line and was only interested in helping his team, adding that, if he had known that the goal was legitimate, he would not have corrected the officials. "I was watching the ball, not the line," Buffon told La Repubblica. "I didn't realise it had gone over the line, and even if I did I wouldn't have lent a hand to the referee. "Taking a point and continuing the unbeaten streak makes it a special evening, where we played against most successful team to win the Scudetto.

"In the end what counts is that we were ready to adapt to whatever happened in the match. Milan had greater freshness, lucidity and technical skill.

"In the second half we tried to change and in the last 25 minutes we were better because in the first half AC Milan had control of the game," he admitted.

The draw means that Milan are still top of Serie A by one point, though Juventus have a game in hand. 

 

Manchester City 3-0 Blackburn Rovers

Balotelli, Aguero & Dzeko fire hosts five points clear at top of Premier League after convincing victory, with Steve Kean's side once again back in the relegation zone. Three-goal City breeze past Blackburn Goals from Mario Balotelli, Sergio Aguero and Edin Dzeko extended the Citizens' lead at the top of the Premier League to five as Steve Kean's men failed to score at the Etihad Stadium.

Anzhi Makhachkala continuous big transfers

Ramzan Kadyrov spents his Country's money for Anzhi !! Blackburn's Christopher Samba in £9m move to Anzhi Makhachkala. Blackburn centre-half joins Guus Hiddink at Russian club. Samba deal could bring in additional £2m in add-on fees. Christopher Samba has joined Anzhi Makhachkala after becoming unsettled at Blackburn Rovers. Photograph: Glyn Kirk/AFP/Getty Images The Blackburn Rovers defender Christopher Samba has swapped Lancashire for Dagestan after completing a £9m move to Anzhi Makhachkala. The deal could bring Rovers a further £2m depending on appearances and other factors. The transfer window in Russia did not close until Friday and the Russian side, who recently appointed Guus Hiddink as their coach, have taken advantage to add Samba to their growing list of stars. The 27-year-old made a transfer request in January after becoming unhappy at the direction Rovers were heading under Venky's but remained at Ewood Park after the winter window closed when a move to QPR or Tottenham failed to materialise. Anzhi, based in Makhachkala on the Caspian Sea, have made a number of notable signings, funded by the billionaire owner Suleyman Kerimov. Their squad already boast the Cameroon striker Samuel Eto'o, the Russia international Yuri Zhirkov and former Brazil defender Roberto Carlos. Samba told Sky Sports News: "They have brought in Eto'o and Hiddink to transform the club. I know Anzhi is a little club that wants to become a very big one."

Torres dropped by Spain

Fernando Torres has been dropped from Spain's squad for next week's friendly against Venezuela. The Euro 2008 and 2010 World Cup-winning striker has been struggling for form at Chelsea, netting just four times in all competitions this season. With Barcelona forward David Villa still absent with a broken leg, Spain coach Vicente del Bosque has opted to include Valencia hitman Roberto Soldado and highly-rated Athletic Bilbao youngster Iker Muniain in his 24-man squad for Wednesday's match in Malaga.

Arsenal vs Tottenham Spurs

Arsenal - Tottenham Preview: Visitors looking to complete first Premier League double over Gunners in 19 years In, arguably, Arsene Wenger's toughest derby in his entire reign at the club, Spurs will be looking to complete a league double over their rivals for the first time since 1993. First XI ARSENAL Szczesny Sagna, Vermaelen, Koscielny, Gibbs Walcott, Arteta, Song, Gervinho Ramsey Van Persie TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR FriedelWalker, Kaboul, King, Assou-Ekotto Lennon, Parker, Modric, Bale Van der VaartAdebayor   One side have recently been knocked out of two cups and look likely yet again to finish the season without silverware. The other are flying high in the Premier League, still in with a shout of the title, and looking to advance into the quarter-finals of a cup competition. You could be forgiven for thinking that Arsenal were the form team heading into this fixture, and based on many a season gone by you would be right. Not this season though. This season it is Tottenham’s turn to shine. The rivalry between the two sides has rarely been fiercer, and Sunday’s north London derby could cement the long speculated ‘turning of the tide’ in the Lilywhites’ favour. After going 20 games without a victory against theire neighbours, Spurs have won three and drawn once in their last four Premier League games against Arsenal. Harry Redknapp’s men go into a game at the Emirates Stadium as favourites for the first time and confidence will be high. If they play the same way they did in the 5-0 victory over Newcastle, this could well turn out to be a harder pill for Wenger to swallow than the humiliating 4-0 defeat away to AC Milan 11 days previously. The Frenchman must raise a team bereft of confidence, otherwise he will taste the bitterness of a Spurs double over Arsenal for the first time in his managerial career, the Gunners having not suffered such a fate since 1993 - three years before Wenger arrived at Highbury. Speculation over Wenger's continued hold on the Gunners' reins has never been more intense, but he can look towards star striker Robin van Persie to save the day. With 22 Premier League goals already this campaign, the 28-year-old has been the sole shining light in an otherwise dark and dingy season for his side. Without the impact of the league's leading goalscorer, Arsenal would find themselves, amazingly, in a relegation scrap. But if the Dutchman is on song, then he has the ability to drag his team to victory and, potentially, save his side's season with Champions League qualification. Gunners’ defenders Laurent Koscielny (knee) and Kieran Gibbs (groin) and midfielder Aaron Ramsey (ankle) all face fitness tests ahead of the game, but are expected to pull through. Francis Coquelin (hamstring) and Sebastien Squillaci (groin) are, however, sidelined. Defender Carl Jenkinson recently returned for the reserve team, but is not ready for first-team action, while centre-back Per Mertesacker (ankle) joins the ever-expanding list of long-term absentees after being ruled out for the remainder of the season. Harry Redknapp confirmed on Friday that Spurs striker Emmanuel Adebayor (knee) and Rafael van der Vaart (calf) are expected to be fit after training during the week, along with Benoit Assou-Ekotto (groin) and Luka Modric (ill).

Athletico Madrid vs Barcelona ..

The Argentine forward has astonishing recent history with the capital club and hopes to extend it as Pep Guardiola's side aim to keep title hopes alive at the Vicente Calderon.   Atletico Madrid - Barcelona Preview: Lionel Messi seeks third hat-trick in a row against Diego Simeone's side The Argentine forward has astonishing recent history with the capital club and hopes to extend it as Pep Guardiola's side aim to keep title hopes alive at the Vicente Calderon. XI's ; Athletico Madrid: Courtois Juanfran, Miranda, Godin, Filipe Tiago, Gabi Arda, Adrian, Koke Falcao Barcelona: Valdes Alves, Pique, Puyol, Abidal Xavi, Busquets, Iniesta Messi, Fabregas, Sanchez

Buffon : Pirlo decisive than Ibra ..

Gianluigi Buffon says that the Italian playmaker has been more vital for Juventus this season than Zlatan Ibrahimovic has been for AC Milan, as the two sides prepare to lock horns on Saturday. Buffon: Pirlo has been more decisive than Ibrahimovic this season The 34-year-old custodian says that the midfielder has played a key role for Juventus during 2011-12, while stressing that Saturday's match is not decisive for the Scudetto race. Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has hailed Andrea Pirlo's impact on the team. The 32-year-old midfielder signed for Juve in the summer after a decade at AC Milan and has played a leading role in the club's rise of form as they trail the Rossoneri in second place by just one point. Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who will miss Saturday's match against Juventus through suspension, is Milan's top Serie A scorer with 15 goals, but Buffon had special words of praise for his team-mate. "Pirlo has been more decisive than Ibrahimovic this season," Buffon told La Stampa. "Ibra has certainly kept his incisiveness, helping Milan to keep the same level from last season. "Pirlo has balanced the gap between Milan and Juventus. "Was Pirlo a gift from Milan? I do not think so. He wanted to come here and seize a new challenge." The Italy international then admitted that he is thrilled to see Juventus challenging for the Scudetto again after the club's disappointing results in recent seasons. "It is really satisfying, although this season has been a bit different: Inter have struggled and Napoli have the Champions League handicap, which has narrowed down the Scudetto race to Milan and Juventus. "But it is a big surprise, because at the beginning no one thought this could happen. "This is good for Serie A, otherwise Milan would win it hands down." The 34-year-old keeper then stated that he does not believed that the outcome of Saturday's match will determine the Serie A champion. "It is too soon," Buffon noted. "If we win, I do not think we will be closer to the Scudetto. "And the same thing can be said about Milan, if we lose."

Arshavin moves to Zenit on loan

The Arsenal midfielder's switch to his previous club has been confirmed by all three parties after a troubled campaign with the Gunners, where the Russian has struggled to impose himself. Arsenal midfielder Andrey Arshavin joins Zenit on loan The 30-year-old returns to his former club on the final day of the Russian transfer window after struggling for form under Arsene Wenger at the Emirates. Arsenal midfielder Andrey Arshavin has completed a loan move to his former club Zenit St Petersburg until July. The 30-year-old has struggled for form in the 27 appearances he has made this season and has returned to Zenit on the final day of the Russian transfer window. Arshavin posted on his official website: "I've moved to "Zenit". On loan, will play under number 29." With Gervinho returning from the Africa Cup of Nations earlier this month, Arshavin's chances of securing a regular first-team role ahead of Russia's Euro 2012 campaign this summer looked limited. Arsenal confirmed the reason behind the midfielder's move to Zenit was so that he could "maximise his opportunities for regular first-team football ahead of Euro 2012 in June". Arshavin joined Arsenal in February 2009 from Zenit for a reported £15 million fee.

Robben frustrated with life at Bayern

The Dutch winger says that that he has been unfairly treated in recent times by the German press, and feels that it was counter-productive for coach Jupp Heynckes to drop him. Arjen Robben admits to frustration with life at Bayern Munich The Dutchman feels that he has been unfairly treated in recent times from the press, and feels Jupp Heynckes dropping him was counter-productive. Arjen Robben has admitted to growing frustration with life at Bayern Munich, having found himself on the bench and out of the Bundesliga starting line-up on several occasions. A loss of form has seen the 28-year-old drop out of Jupp Heynckes' first team plans, but Robben feels his coach dropping him got in the way of a full recovery. "When I felt good again, I was interrupted," he told Dutch television station Sport1. The Dutchman has been widely criticised for his performances in the press, and took time to hit back at German newspapers for what he feels is a witch-hunt. "There are some newspapers that try to wage a small war against me every two months. This I take personally. I do not want to lump them all together, but it's sad." Bayern Munich have a crucial clash at the top of the Bundesliga at home to Schalke on Sunday at 15.30CET.

Europa League Round of 32 Results

-PSV Eindhoven 4 - 1 Trabzonspor -Valencia 1 – 0 Stoke -Standart Liege 0 – 0 Wisla Krakow -Twente 1 - 0 Steaua Bükreş -PAOK 0 - 3 Udinese -Club Brugge 0 – 1 Hannover 96 -Atlethic Bilbao 1 – 0 Lokomotiv Moskova -Beşiktaş 0 – 1 Braga -Olimpiakos 1 – 0 Rubin Kazan -Manchester United 1 – 2 Ajax -Metalist Kharkhiv 4 – 1 Salzburg -Sporting Lizbon 1 – 0 Legia Varşova -Schalke 3 – 1 Victoria Plzen -Anderlecht 0 – 1 AZ Alkmaar -Atletico Madrid 1 - 0 Lazio

Cristiano Ronaldo on Manchester United return: You never know

The Portugal international is determined to break his own league goalscoring record and stated that a move back to United is a possibility.   Real Madrid attacker Cristiano Ronaldo has refused to rule out the possibility of a return to Manchester United in the future. The Portugal international broke the world record transfer fee in 2009, when he joined Madrid from Manchester United in a €94 million deal after helping the Red Devils to win three Premier League titles and one Champions League crown, among other trophies. Spanish TV show Punto Pelota found out that Rio Ferdinand had uploaded a video of a short conversation with the 27-year-old after Madrid's 4-0 victory against Racing Santander on Saturday to an iPhone application. Questioned by his former team-mate on a return to Old Trafford, Ronaldo said: "You never know, my friend." The former Sporting Lisbon talent also stated that he is determined to break the record for the most Primera Division goals in a single season, which he holds after netting 40 times in the competition in 2010-11. Ronaldo know hisself "Will I break my record? Of course, man," he said.

Neuer 'gutted' about Basel defeat

The Bayern Munich goalkeeper feels that the Swiss outfit deserved their 1-0 victory on Wednesday evening, and admitted that the Bavarians are going through a difficult period of late Neuer: Bayern Munich are gutted about Basel defeat The Germany international feels that the Swiss outfit deserved their victory on Wednesday evening, and admitted that FCB are going through a difficult period of lat. Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has expressed his disappointment with his side's 1-0 Champions League Round of 16 first leg loss against Basel. An 86th-minute strike from Valentin Stocker helped the Swiss giants to a crucial home win on Wednesday, and Neuer has admitted that the hosts deserved their victory. "Naturally, we’re gutted about the result. Everything went wrong for the goal. We didn’t get at the man with the ball," Neuer was quoted as saying on the Bayern website. "Basel’s victory wasn’t undeserved. They had really good chances in the first half, although so did we. "It's not gone according to plan, and we’re stuck in a tricky situation. We have top-class individuals, but it’s not going smoothly or easily at the moment."

Scintillating City crush Porto

The Premier League club cruised into the last 16 of the Europa League courtesy of a thumping 4-0 win over the Portuguese side at the Etihad Stadium, to progress 6-1 on aggregate. Manchester City 4-0 Porto (6-1 Agg): Sergio Aguero scores after 19 seconds to set up impressive Europa League progression Early strike from the Argentine, efforts by Dzeko and Silva and Pizarro's first City goal fire the Citizens into the next round of the competition as they eliminate the holders. Manchester City beat Porto 4-0 at the Etihad Stadium to wrap up a 6-1 aggregate win to set up a Europa League last-16 tie against either Legia Warsaw or Sporting Lisbon. The home side took the lead after just 19 seconds through Sergio Aguero before the Argentine set up Edin Dzeko in the second half to secure a comfortable victory. David Silva and David Pizarro netted late on to give the tie a one-sided look. Boss Roberto Mancini made just one change from the first leg, bringing in Aguero for Mario Balotelli, while the Europa League holders made two alterations to their back-line from the game at the Estadio Dragao as Nicolas Otamendi and Alex Sandro replaced Danilo and the suspended Alvaro Pereira. Mancini had discussed Porto's threat before the game but saw his side make the perfect start to the match when Yaya Toure pounced on Otamendi’s slack pass to feed Aguero through on goal and slot home past Helton to score his 20th goal of a highly impressive debut season. The home side almost extended their lead as a clever Silva pass sent Toure through on goal, only for the Ivorian to see his effort saved. Moutinho hit a free kick over before Aguero again found himself with just the goalkeeper to beat. The Brazilian Helton recklessly rushed off his line to allow the Argentine to cooly round the keeper and chip an effort over Sandro on the line, only to see his effort cruelly clip the bar and stay out. Porto were restricted to long-range efforts, Lucho Gonzalez hit a speculative effort over before a Hulk free kick was deflected wide. From the resulting corner Maicon headed down to Otamendi but the defender could only volley over from eight yards. It turned out to be the Portuguese side's last chance of the half as the sides went in at the break with City in total control. Needing three goals without reply, Porto came out for the second half with purpose. Lucho Gonzalez found space after a quick free kick and fired an effort wide with Hart scrambling to his right. The holders finally had the ball in the net just before the hour mark, but James Rodriguez close-range goal was chalked off due to Hulk's involvement from an offside position. Mancini looked to stem the tide of Porto pressure, sending on James Milner in place of Gareth Barry in the City midfield. Toure picked up a booking mid-way through the second period for clumsy challenge on Fernando, meaning the Ivorian will now miss City's next Europa League game after picking up three yellow cards in Europe this season. With the game meandering to little more than a training match, Dzeko replaced Nasri and immediately added a second to dash any fading Porto hopes. Aguero combined with Silva on the left flank and drove inside before playing a perfectly weighted ball for Dzeko to finish. In the aftermath, Porto's Rolando was shown a second yellow card and subsequent red for over-zealous protesting that the Bosnian had been offside. Silva tapped in a third before late substitute David Pizarro pounced on a loose ball to smash the home for his first goal for the club since joining from Roma on loan.

Last-gasp leveller leaves Madrid cold

Pontus Wernbloom's injury-time equaliser earned CSKA Moscow a dramatic 1-1 draw versus the Spanish giants in Russia, after Ronaldo looked to have earlier sealed victory for the visitors. CSKA Moscow 1-1 Real Madrid: Stoppage-time equaliser from Wernbloom cancels out Ronaldo opener and gives Russians battling draw Late drama at a packed Luzhniki Stadium as Leonid Slutsky's men strike at the death to deny the Spanish giants what looked to be a certain victory. A dramatic late equaliser from Pontus Wernbloom cancelled out Cristiano Ronaldo's first-half strike as CSKA Moscow drew 1-1 with Real Madrid at the Luzhniki Stadium on Tuesday evening, to leave this last-16 Champions League tie evenly poised. The January signing volleyed home with seconds remaining to send the stadium into raptures and deny Jose Mourinho's men, who looked certain to take a lead back to Santiago Bernabeu for the second leg. The hosts, amidst freezing conditions in the Russian capital, made a positive start to the match, with Seydou Doumbia and Ahmed Musa looking dangerous. Their electric pace and dribbling ability was obvious, but no clear-cut chances were created and Madrid managed to begin to impose themselves on the game. The ascendancy of the visitors stalled slightly, though, due to an injury to Karim Benzema a quarter of an hour into play. The Frenchman went down innocuously and had to be withdrawn due to what appeared to be a groin problem. Mourinho's side then had a great chance to take the lead but were denied by a terrific double save from Sergey Chepchugov. Gonzalo Higuain, Benzema's replacement, latched onto a loose ball just outside the box and lashed a left-footed shot at goal that was palmed away by the CSKA goalkeeper, who got up instantly to tip Sami Khedira's rebound over the bar. The breakthrough did eventually come for Real Madrid, through good work from Portuguese pair Ronaldo and Fabio Coentrao. The left-back found himself in an advanced position down the left wing and whipped a cross to the back post which proved too much for Zoran Tosic, who awkwardly headed the ball into the path of Ronaldo. The Madrid talisman showed great composure to drill a left-footed half-volley at goal, which squeezed past the glove of Chepchugov. The second half saw the Real Madrid defence looking relatively comfortable, as the hosts struggled to break through a solid back line. Chances were at a premium, but the Spanish outfit had an excellent opportunity to double their lead in the 75th minute and it took another good save from Chepchugov kept his side in the match. Ronaldo broke the CSKA offside trap and ran through on goal attempting to take the ball around the goalkeeper, who remained big to make an important block. Ronaldo again should have doubled his tally seven minutes from time when he found himself with plenty of space on the edge of the box, but dragged his shot wide of the left-hand post. The win looked to be in the bag for Real Madrid, but CSKA had other ideas. In the last minute of injury time, Alexey Berezutski got on the end of a deep cross to head the ball back into the danger area of the Madrid box, and Wernbloom was there to smash home from seven yards. The tie between CSKA Moscow and Real Madrid is perfectly poised for the second leg two weeks from now at Santiago Bernabeu, and although the hosts will certainly be buoyed by the manner of their equaliser, the Spanish still hold the advantage of a precious away goal.

'I don’t think we deserve to be 10 points behind'

Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola believes his side have played excellently this season and do not merit being such a distance behind league leaders Real Madrid. Barcelona coach Guardiola: We do not deserve to be 10 points behind Real Madrid The Blaugrana trainer is adamant that his team should be closer to Real Madrid in the Liga standings, but urged his players to fight for the league title until the end. Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola hailed his players as a credit to the game after Sunday night's 5-1 demolition of Valencia in La Liga, and argued that his side do not deserve to be 10 points behind La Liga leaders Real Madrid at this point in the season. The Catalans, who have won 13 titles since Guardiola took charge in 2008, fell behind to an early goal from Pablo Piatti at Camp Nou but came storming back to win courtesy of four goals from Lionel Messi and one from Xavi. Guardiola insisted after the game that this current Barca squad, who travelled to Japan in December to claim the Club World Cup, had again underlined why some pundits believe them to be the best side ever assembled. “We played very well this evening," the former Spain international told reporters after the game. "We’re very happy with how things have gone and how we’ve played. “We’re happy to have entertained the crowd. We’re happy that plenty of people have come to see us; let’s hope that they enjoyed it. “I always think that we’re really lucky to have this generation of players. It’s a privilege to be able to enjoy them because they’re fantastic lads. “We’re 10 points behind but, honestly, I don’t think we deserve to be 10 points behind the way we’ve played this season. "There are many things that have happened that have resulted in us being this far behind and it will be difficult to make up those points. "But we have to try during the three months that are left to come back and we have to try to compete - like we did today." Guardiola added that he believes it is his players' drive and desire which sets them apart from the majority of their rivals. “I know that in sport you have to test yourself every day; every moment," he mused. "And I don’t think there’s a greater example of that than these players. "How many teams have won things and then not been able to follow it up the following season? "It’s not the case for these lads. They’ve done it time and time again. And they’ve done it in style. "I think that they’re a credit to the sport and I think we’re really lucky to be around at the same time as them and to be able to enjoy them on a daily basis.” Barcelona return to La Liga action against Atletico Madrid at the Vicente Calderon next weekend.

Manchester City's Nigel de Jong says his team won't crack under pressure The Dutch enforcer believes his side are in a good position to claim the Premier League title and denies they are feeling the heat being supplied by Manchester United. Manchester City midfielder Nigel de Jong believes they can keep their cool and claim the Premier League title despite being under constant pressure from Manchester United. The Red Devils have honed in on City recently and now sit just two points behind them. De Jong told The Sunday Mirror: “We are honestly not thinking about United. We aren’t feeling any pressure from them because the only pressure we feel is what we put on ourselves. “We ­expect this fight to go on until the last games of the season. ­United have won the ­Premier League before, but I don’t think that gives them an ­advantage. FA CUP “Last season City showed they are ­winners in the FA Cup. There are winners everywhere at the club. “Yaya Toure has won the biggest ­trophies with ­Barcelona and Roberto Mancini has won many titles as a player and a coach in ­Italy.” Meanwhile, City face another fine regarding fan behaviour after supporters set off fireworks before their win over Porto on Thursday. However, Uefa seems unwilling to investigate the allegations that Mario Balotelli was racially abused in Portugal.

'It is no longer in our hands'

Bayern Munich general manager Christian Nerlinger has admitted that his team are no longer in control of their own destiny after Saturday's goalless draw with Freiburg in the Bundesliga Christian Nerlinger admits Bundesliga title 'is no longer in Bayern Munich's hands' following Freiburg draw The former midfielder conceded the Bavarians will have to hope their rivals drop points going into the business end of the season, but was disappointed by his side's lack of hunger. Bayern Munich general manager Christian Nerlinger has confessed his team are no longer in control of their own destiny after Saturday's 0-0 draw with Freiburg in the Bundesliga. The German giants laboured to a stalemate against the strugglers, and despite his insistence that the title remains a feasible target for the rest of the campaign, the 38-year-old admits they must now live in the hope that their league rivals give them a helping hand. "Of course, the championship is not lost, but it is no longer in our hands," claimed Nerlinger after the match. Nerlinger also expressed his frustration at the performances of some players, whom he chose to not name, claiming they were oblivious to the importance of the fixture in Freiburg and did not give their all to the Bayern cause. "This match was a big mystery to me - especially the first half, it made me very pensive," mused Nerlinger. "It seemed as if some of our players have not understood what is at stake. "There were basic team elements such as aggression, a positive attitude and a willingness to win which were missing." Bayern Munich have fallen to third in the Bundesliga standings, and are now four points behind leaders Borussia Dortmund.

'Let’s focus on our next game'

Arsene Wenger is looking for Arsenal to “show internal strength and resilience” to bounce back against Tottenham after a 2-0 away defeat to Sunderland dumped the Gunners out of the FA Cup. Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger calls for focus on Tottenham after FA Cup defeat to Sunderland The Gunners boss admitted his disappointment as Kieran Richardson's strike and an Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain own goal put his side on course for another trophyless year. Arsene Wenger is looking for Arsenal to “show internal strength and resilience” to bounce back against Tottenham after a 2-0 defeat away to Sunderland dumped the Gunners out of the FA Cup. Following their 4-0 midweek mauling by AC Milan in the Champions League, the north Londoners had a tough time at the Stadium of Light as Kieran Richardson and an Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain own goal condemned them to elimination and the prospect of another trophyless season. “I feel we had a committed performance and we gave absolutely everything that was left in our legs. It was a very difficult game,” Wenger admitted in the post-match press conference. “We had three away games in a week on three very difficult pitches. It was a very unfortunate schedule. “We fought hard but I felt we were a bit unlucky. It was a 100 per cent penalty that Mr [Howard] Webb missed [John O’Shea on Robin van Persie] and Sunderland scored with their first shot on goal. “Then we had to chase the game, take every gamble and we were caught on the break for the second goal. We had an awful lot of possession but did not create a lot and that is down to fantastic defending by Sunderland. They left us the ball, ran after it and defended well.” Asked what the probable lack of silverware would mean for the club going forward, Wenger said: “It is too early to say. “We are of course very disappointed tonight and it is very difficult to say where it leaves us and what we will do. “Let’s focus on our next game to finish well in the Premier League and fight as well even if it is a small possibility in the Champions League to give us a little chance and we have a big game next Saturday [against Spurs]. “I believe that the moment it is better to let people talk and criticise, analyse and destroy and on our side it is important we show internal strength and resilience and face all that and come out with a good performance in our next game. “The competition is very hard in England and I do not want to speak too much about that now. We could speak a long time about that one day. But at the moment we have to forget all that and focus on our next game and try to win it.” The Frenchman spoke scathingly of criticism that he has received from the media when asked if the result meant that the club was in crisis. “It depends what you call a crisis,” Wenger stated. “Every time we lose a game we have a crisis. Our job is about winning and playing well. “At the moment I get many lessons from many people who have managed zero clubs and zero games. I can take everything on board but I don’t think that would have helped us to win the game today. “We have played 15 years at the top level in the top four with remarkable consistency and one day when you manage a club you will see it is not easy.” “I think it is a very harsh judgement,” he added when told of Roy Keane’s comments that the current Gunners side are "the worst Arsenal team I've seen in all my time of watching football". Francis Coquelin, Aaron Ramsey and Sebastien Squillaci were all withdrawn due to injury during the game and Wenger admitted that injuries were an increasing problem. “We lost three players again today and we are starting to get very short,” said the Gunners boss. “None of them will be fit for next week.”

'We are a great team'

Antonio Conte has praised Juventus for showing themselves to be a brilliant side after coming from behind to beat Catania 3-1 at home in Serie A on Saturday and go back to the top of the table. Conte delighted Juventus 'have shown themselves to be a great team' following win over Catania The young trainer has commended his side for responding maturely to their goalless draw against Parma, and feels the Bianconeri have now proved their credentials for Serie A glory Juventus coach Antonio Conte has praised his side for showing themselves to be a "great team" after coming back from behind to beat Catania 3-1 in Serie A on Saturday. An Andrea Pirlo-inspired Old Lady eventually coasted to a comfortable victory on the night, and the 42-year-old was pleased to see his players put on a display of maturity and professionalism, but also reserved credit for their Sicilian opponents at Juventus Stadium. "We were good tonight, we were concentrated and mature and gave an excellent response to the fans, as we showed that we are a great team," said Conte after the match. "We are a large group and it was also seen in our celebrations tonight. I knew we'd face a strong and motivated team like Catania, who also showed their strength. "They have some very interesting players and it is proof that [sporting director Pietro] Lo Monaco and the board are doing a great job." Conte then explained his reasons behind his decision to ring the changes from the XI that started the goalless draw against Parma. "On Wednesday we played Parma and [the players] had little time to recover," he continued. "We also have a month of matches every three days coming up, and for this I needed to deploy a different team from the beginning to keep things fresh for the rest of the season." The coach was also anxious to stress the outcome of Zlatan Ibrahimovic's hearing for his red card appeal will not affect his plans ahead of the clash with AC Milan next weekend. "I trust that the right decision will be made. However, we're going to San Siro to play and win the game, without thinking that Ibrahimovic may or may not feature," he concluded. Juventus have now moved two points clear of Milan in the Serie A table.

Mourinho hints at Madrid stay

Following the Blancos' 4-0 win over Racing Santander in La Liga, the Portuguese has admitted his love for Chelsea and Inter but insists that his affection for the duo should not be overestimated 'I prefer to support Chelsea and Inter' - Mourinho hints he is not interested in returning to former clubs The Portuguese appears to have ruled out going back to either of his previous sides, saying he is a thing of the past in both London and Milan. He also hit out at the Madrid press. Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has admitted his love for previous clubs Chelsea and Inter, but intimated his affection for the duo should not be overestimated. It had emerged that fans of the Blues and the Nerazzurri were heard chanting their one-time trainer's name during their respective matches over the weekend, seemingly longing for a return of their successful former coach. But speaking after the Blancos' routine 4-0 victory over Racing Santander on Saturday, although the 48-year-old responded positively to the news, he hinted that a second spell at either club was not presently in his thoughts. "I have much love for Chelsea and Inter," said Mourinho. "[However], I prefer to support these teams and hear the fans sing my name." Mourinho then took the time out to clarify a report in one Madrid-based newspaper, which took a swipe at the former Porto man for his reluctance in selecting Cantera players, namely defender Daniel Carvajal. However, after it was then revealed that Carvajal was actually suspended from participating on Saturday, he proceeded to indirectly attack the publication, labelling their report as a form of "disastrous" journalism. "When we do our job, coaches are still criticised. When you're wrong you must also be criticised," he continued. "So you cannot ask for a player, who is suspended, to play. The present quality of journalism is disastrous." Real Madrid have moved provisionally 13 points clear of arch-rivals Barcelona at the Liga summit.

'Hazard is definitely on our list'

Tottenham Hotspur manager Harry Redknapp has confirmed that he wants to bring the Lille attacker to White Hart Lane in the summer, revealing he "is a player that we have spoken about" Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp confirms interest in Lille's Eden Hazard White Hart Lane boss has revealed that he is keeping an eye on the progress of the highly rated 21-year-old and is looking to do business with his side in the summer Tottenham Hotspur manager Harry Redknapp has confirmed that he wants to bring Lille’s highly-rated Eden Hazard to White Hart Lane in the summer. Hazard has been the creative influence at the French outfit and was instrumental in helping them secure the French league title and cup last season. The Spurs boss and chairman Daniel Levy were in discussions about the player in January but decided to hold-off from making a move, but Redknapp has sent members of his scouting staff to keep an eye on the 21-year-old’s progress over the season. Redknapp told The Observer: “Hazard is a player that we have spoken about. He is a player who is definitely on our list.” Any potential swoop for the Belgium international could depend on whether Redknapp is still in the Spurs dugout or in charge of England in the summer. Another stumbling block would be the £33 million asking price Lille have placed on him - and with interest from Barcelona, Real Madrid and Arsenal, it could prove tricky to lure him to White Hart Lane. In an interview with French television channel RTBF Hazard said: “Maybe it will be Tottenham [I will join].” Reports in France suggest that he has already agreed personal terms with Spurs. Hazard has maintained his good form in the current season scoring nine goals and setting-up nine others. However, Lille now look certain to lose their prize possession in the summer and questions over Luka Modric's Spurs career will be raised if the Belgian signs for the club.

Milan are missing an extra quality, says Ibra

EXCLUSIVE: The Rossoneri striker believes there is an intangible quality absent from the team, which has resulted in them being unable to pull away from Juventus in Serie A Zlatan Ibrahimovic: AC Milan are missing an extra quality, but Juventus have a big advantage by only playing once a week In an exclusive interview with Goal.com, the Sweden international explained that an ability to pick up points when playing badly has eluded the Rossoneri this term EXCLUSIVE By Kris Voakes | Italian Football Editor Zlatan Ibrahimovic believes that there is an intangible quality missing from AC Milan this season, which has resulted in them being unable to pull away from a Juventus side who, he claims, are playing with a significant advantage. Milan are currently two points off the pace in Serie A under Massimiliano Allegri, a man who Ibrahimovic says that he ranks very highly as a coach, with the unbeaten Bianconeri's 3-1 win over Catania on Saturday having once again deposed the San Siro outfit as leaders. And, in an exclusive interview with Goal.com, the 30-year-old said that there is one key difference between this season and last term's successful title charge. "I think when we had been playing badly last year, we still got the points we needed. This year, when we have played badly we have been losing those games, and I think that is also a quality, that when you play bad you still get a point or even win," said Ibrahimovic. "But this year has been less like that. We have lost many important points when we have played badly. We have also had to go through some very strange injuries, so it’s a combination, but it’s in the moment also. One moment you’re here, one moment you’re there, but the most important thing is to keep the level very high all season and I think that is what will make a team win." The giant Swede, who is set to miss next Saturday's crucial clash between the top two through suspension, believes that there is something which remains in Juve's favour. "I think Juventus are doing very well, but we shouldn’t forget that they play one game a week, and we play three," he observed. "It’s a big difference." Two points behind | Ibrahimovic believes playing more games is affecting his Milan side However, Ibrahimovic remains very happy with Milan's progress, and that of coach Allegri, who he says that he ranks among the best he's ever worked with despite some question marks in the media recently due to the Rossoneri's wavering form. "If you think of him like a book, he is at the beginning because he has a lot of pages in front of him to fill up," said the former Barcelona star. "He has won the league, he has won the Supercoppa, but I think he’s at the beginning of his career as a coach with a big team. He is still in a learning phase and is still to develop, but still I rank him very high because you have to be a very good coach to win the league. "I heard Jose Mourinho say it’s better to be a coach in England than in Italy because in England you can be a coach for 20 years without winning anything, but in Italy you can be a coach for three months without winning and you are out. So, I think he is questioned every day depending on the result on a Sunday or Wednesday." Ibrahimovic sits out the second game of his three-match ban on Sunday afternoon when Milan travel to Cesena, with his appeal against the severity of his suspension, handed down after a slap on Napoli's Salvatore Aronica, not set to be heard until as late as Thursday.