Jose Mourinho is Beginning to Look Like an Old-school Manager, "He Can only Win Ugly," - Alyson Rudd

Jose Mourinho is suddenly looking 'old-school' compared to Jurgen Klopp and Mauricio Pochettino, says the Sunday Supplement panel. Mourinho was sent to the stands after half-time for his angry reaction to Manchester United not being awarded a penalty for a tackle on Matteo Darmian as they were held to a 0-0 draw with Sean Dyche's Burnley at Old Trafford on Saturday. 

The result means United have now failed to win any of their last four Premier League games, leaving them eighth in the table, and the Sunday Supplement panel suggested other top-flight managers are now beginning to make Mourinho's philosophy look tired. 

"He's beginning to look like an old-school manager," says The Times' Alyson Rudd. "He's suddenly looking quite old because you've got young managers like Pochettino and Klopp who have refreshed the way football is played in the Premier League and what they demand from their players."

Watch West Ham vs Chelsea 2-1 - Highlights as the Blues Crashed Out of EFL CUp

A late strike from Gary Cahill was not enough to keep Antonio Conte's team alive in the competition, as the Hammers took an impressive win. West Ham reached the quarter-finals of the EFL Cup as they beat Chelsea 2-1 on Wednesday, although the tie was the latest game at London Stadium to be marred by unsavoury scenes in the stands. You can watch the highlight below.

Jose Mourinho Claims He’s Never Seen Support Like He’s Experienced at Manchester United

Jose Mourinho aimed a thinly-veiled dig at his old side Chelsea by claiming he’s ‘never seen’ support like he’s experienced from Manchester United fans at Old Trafford this season. The Red Devils got their season back on track with a spirited 1-0 win against arch rivals Manchester City in the EFL Cup on Wednesday night.

Mourinho’s side were humiliated by Chelsea on Sunday during a 4-0 drubbing at Stamford Bridge and the 53-year-old apologised before last night’s game for the result. The Special One was often critical of the lack of atmopshere at Stamford Bridge over his two stints at the club and claimed in 2014 after a win against QPR at home that it was like ‘playing in an empty stadium’.

However, Mourinho was full of praise for United’s crowd last night and said he’s never seen such passion from supporters.

Watch Manchester United vs Manchester City Highlight as United Pile more Pressure on Guardiola

Juan Mata scored the winner as Manchester United bounced back from their humiliating defeat at Chelsea with a 1-0 derby victory over Manchester City in the EFL Cup fourth round, extending their local rivals' winless run to six matches. 

This was a tie between two managers in need of a reassuring win – Jose Mourinho after the embarrassment of a 4-0 defeat on his return to Stamford Bridge on Sunday, and Pep Guardiola amidst what is now the longest barren spell of his coaching career.

A much-changed City side started strongly but were unable to make the breakthrough, allowing United to find a way back into the match.

Manchester United Defender Eric Bailly Out for Two Months - Baily Confirmson Instagram

The Ivory Coast international was replaced by Marcos Rojo in the 52nd minute of the 4-0 defeat at Stamford Bridge, with Jose Mourinho revealing post-match he feared the worst for his summer signing. "He is injured and I am afraid he is badly injured," Mourinho said. "In his knee, in the ligament area, he feels it is really bad."

Bailly has now confirmed the extent of his injury, writing on Instagram alongside a picture of him wearing a leg brace: "I wanted to thank you all for the messages of support that I have received since the injury. I hope to be able to play for United and The Elephants [Ivory Coast] before two months. God willing."

Alex Iwobi Is a Natural Number 10 Who can Replace Mesut Ozil in Midfield, Says Arsene Wenger

Arsene Wenger believes Alex Iwobi has the potential to succeed in the number 10 role at Arsenal. The Nigerian has mostly been used in a left-wing position since emerging from the Gunners’ academy last season. The 20-year-old flourished during his debut campaign and he’s taken those performances into this season, making 11 appearances for Arsene Wenger’s side already this term

Wenger is delighted with Iwobi’s development and he believes the youngster could transfer his qualities into the attacking midfield position.

Manchester United Manager Jose Mourinho Set to Convert Paul Pogba to Central Defender

Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho believes Paul Pogba, the world’s most expensive footballer, could become a ‘phenomenal central defender’. The Frenchman joined the Red Devils in the summer for £89million but is yet to hit top form at Old Trafford.

The former Juventus man has just one league goal and is yet to register an assist on his return to the Theatre of Dreams. Pogba is likely to feature against Manchester City in the EFL Cup at Old Trafford tonight and could be paired with Michael Carrick in midfield.

However, Mourinho’s defended Pogba’s slow start to life back in England and revealed he sees a future for the France international in central defence.

Legendary Brazilian Footballer Carlos Alberto Dies Aged 72

Former Brazil captain Carlos Alberto has died, aged 72. Alberto skippered Brazil to World Cup glory in 1970 and scored arguably the greatest goal in the competition’s history in the final against Italy. Reports in Brazil claim Alberto suffered a heart attack but there’s yet to be an official statement on the Brazilian’s death.

Alberto was widely considered one of the best right-backs in the world during his illustrious 19-year career and he enjoyed success as a manager with the likes of Flamengo and Botafogo.

Alberto scored one of the most famous goals of all time when he netted an iconic fourth goal in Brazil’s 1970 World Cup final win against Italy.

Source: Metro

‘During that Game I Saw Nothing Wrong from Conte' - West Ham Boss Slaven Bilic Defend Antonio Conte’s Touchline Antics against Manchester United

West Ham Boss Slaven Bilic has defender Antonio Conte’s touchline antics against Manchester United. Chelsea manager Conte, who clashed with Jose Mourinho in the 4-0 win at Stamford Bridge, apparently angered the Manchester United boss for his over-exuberant celebrations in Sunday’s victory.

‘You don’t celebrate like that at 4-0, you can do it at 1-0, otherwise it’s humiliating for us,’ Mourinho reportedly told Conte upon hearing the final whistle.

But Bilic, who is preparing to face Conte’s Chelsea in the EFL Cup on Wednesday, has no problem with passion from managers on the touchline.

Heavy Defeat to Arsenal Was a Wake-up Call for Us - Nemanja Matic

Nemanja Matic believes Chelsea’s heavy defeat to Arsenal acted as a ‘wake-up call’ to put Antonio Conte’s side back on track to challenge for the Premier League title. Chelsea were convincingly beaten 3-0 at the Emirates Stadium on September 24, forcing Conte to overhaul his system to a 3-4-3 formation.

Conte’s side have followed up their loss against the Gunners with three consecutive victories in the Premier League, while Chelsea are yet to concede following their change in system.

Full List of Ballon d’Or 2016 Nominees Revealed as Dimitri Payet, Manchester United, Manchester City and Leicester Stars Make the Shortlist

Stars from Manchester United, Manchester City, Leicester, Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham have made the 30-man list, which honours the finest players on the planet. In fact, eight players from England’s top flight have been added to the shortlist, which also contains regular Ballon d’Or contenders such as Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar and Luis Suarez.

There are plenty of representatives from Manchester as United pair Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Paul Pogba are joined by City duo Sergio Aguero and Kevin de Bruyne.

Tottenham and France star Hugo Lloris is the only Premier League goalkeeper and he is joined by compatriot and West Ham star Dimitri Payet.

Leicester title heroes Jamie Vardy and Riyad Mahrez have also been honoured.

Gareth Bale, who led Wales to the Euro 2016 semi-finals, will hope to be shortlisted for the final three but most will not be able to look past Ronaldo for the top prize.

Here’s a full list of the nominees:

Ballon d'Or shortlist 2016

Sergio Agüero (Manchester City)

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (Borussia Dortmund)

Gareth Bale (Real Madrid)

Gianluigi Buffon (Juventus)

Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid)

Kevin de Bruyne (Manchester City)

Paulo Dybala (Juventus)

Diego Godín (Atletico Madrid)

Antoine Griezmann (Atletico Madrid)

Gonzalo Higuain (Juventus)

Zlatan Ibrahimovic (Manchester United)

Andrés Iniesta (FC Barcelona)

Koke (Atletico Madrid)

Toni Kroos (Real Madrid)

Robert Lewandowski (Bayern Munich)

Hugo Lloris (Tottenham Hotspur)

Riyad Mahrez (Leicester City)

Lionel Messi (FC Barcelona)

Luka Modric (Real Madrid)

Thomas Müller (Bayern Munich)

Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich)

Neymar (FC Barcelona)

Dimitri Payet (West Ham United)

Pepe (Real Madrid)

Paul Pogba (Manchester United)

Rui Patricio (Sporting)

Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid)

Luis Suarez (FC Barcelona)

Jamie Vardy (Leicester City)

Arturo Vidal (Bayern Munich)

Manchester United Players are not Happy with Jose Mourinho’s Approach to Training

Jose Mourinho’s distant approach to Manchester United’s training sessions has left his players stunned, according to reports. The Times claims that the United manager occasionally leaves his assistant Rui Faria to run training by himself while he either watches from afar or goes back to work in his office.

Mourinho reportedly speaks to his players at the start of each session but then leaves the drills in the hands of Faria. 

United’s players have been left surprised by Mourinho’s tendency to keep his distance and would prefer a closer relationship with their manager following Louis van Gaal’s strict regime.

Chelsea Give Preferential Treatment to Eden Hazard During My Little Career in Stamford Bridge - Kevin De Bruyne

Manchester City star Kevin De Bruyne says it is ‘strange’ that he was not afforded the same opportunities at Chelsea as compatriot Eden Hazard. The 25-year-old joined Chelsea in January 2012 from Genk but made just three apperances for the club before joining Wolfsburg in an £18million move in 2014.

The Belgian thrived in the Bundesliga and earned a £55million move to Manchester City in 2015, where he’s solidified his reputation as one of the Premier League’s best players. Jose Mourinho opted to let De Bruyne leave Stamford Bridge after just six months back in west London and accused the Belgian of not wanting to stay and fight for his place.

However, De Bruyne refutes that claim and says the claim that he was too young to make it at Stamford Bridge is ‘strange’ given the Blues were regularly playing Hazard at the same point.

Bayern Munich Starlet Renato Sanches Wins Golden Boy Award ahead of Manchester United Striker Marcus Rashford

The 19-year-old star claimed the prize after a stunning season at both club and international level. The teenager broke into the first-team at Benfica in Portugal, before sealing a €35m (£31.1m), plus bonuses, move to the German giants. He also became an established member of the Portugal national team during Euro 2016, helping the Iberians win their first-ever major trophy.

Sanches claimed the award, which has previously been won by the likes of Lionel Messi and Sergio Aguero, after topping a vote of journalists from 30 newspapers across Europe, all of whom were asked to name the best player aged under 21 through 2016.

WHAT A FAIRYTALE!!! - Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa Defeated Zamalek of Egypt to Claim First CAF Champions League

Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa won a fairytale first CAF Champions League title on Sunday despite a 1-0 second-leg loss to Zamalek of Egypt in Alexandria. A Stanley Ohawuchi goal on 64 minutes was not enough for the home team as they trailed by three goals from the first leg in Pretoria last weekend and lost 3-1 on aggregate.

It was a remarkable triumph because the South Africans were eliminated in the final qualifying round in April only to be reinstated when their Democratic Republic of Congo opponents were disqualified. Success for Sundowns made them $1.5 million (1.38 million euros) richer and secured a place at the FIFA Club World Cup in Japan during December.

"It was an amazing journey of ups and downs and now we are the champions of Africa," said Sundowns' Zimbabwe striker Khama Billiat.

"We look forward to Japan and facing the best clubs in the game. It is going to be an absolute pleasure."

Winger Keagan Dolly said: "We knew it was going to be difficult because Zamalek are a great team with some outstanding individuals.

"Some people will say we were lucky to get a second chance after being eliminated, but I believe we deserve to be African champions."

Goalkeeper Ahmed El Shenawy and captain and midfielder "Shikabala" were among those dropped as Zamalek coach Moamen Soliman made four changes from the side that started the first leg.

Sundowns coach Pitso Mosimane had to make one enforced alteration with huge Ivorian centre-back Bangaly Soumahoro coming in for suspended Wayne Arendse.

Although facing a mammoth task, history offered a hope to Zamalek with two of three previous Champions League finalists in a similar predicament emerging as overall winners.

An estimated 60,000 predominantly Zamalek supporters were inside the 86,000-capacity Borg El Arab Stadium on the outskirts of Alexandria as the match kicked off. There are few more nerve-inducing factors in African football than a large Egyptian crowd roaring on their team, but Sundowns calmly survived early pressure.

The first scoring chance for the hosts came after 12 minutes when Nigerian Ohawuchi burst through and beat goalkeeper Dennis Onyango, but the ball trickled wide. Ugandan Onyango, a 2016 Africa-based Footballer of the Year finalist, needed medical attention three times before being replaced by Wayne Sandilands on 28 minutes.

Striker Basem Morsy had been headlined as the Zamalek dangerman, but recent signing Ohawuchi was posing a bigger threat.

A wild but crucial clearance from Soumahoro foiled another attempt by the Nigerian to break the deadlock before Sundowns began to threaten going forward. The first serious chance for the South Africans came on 35 minutes when awarded a free-kick just outside the box, but captain Hlompho Kekana struck the ball into the wall.

Zamalek goalkeeper Mahmoud Abdel Rahim did well to push away a goal-bound shot from Percy Tau and a looping Billiat shot struck the top of the crossbar before flying wide.

The injuries to Onyango meant eight minutes of first-half stoppage time during which Liberian Anthony Laffor troubled Zamalek twice with a shot and a header.

Half-time arrived with the second leg goalless and Sundowns retaining the three-goal advantage they established in Pretoria last weekend. Zamalek started the second half as they did the first, controlling possession and territory but rarely looking like cracking open Sundowns'
defence.

After 64 minutes the Egyptian outfit scored and it was no surprise that the goal came from livewire Ohawuchi.

Receiving possession well outside the box, he beat one man and unleashed a low, long-range drive that flew into the corner of the net off the left hand of Sandilands.

Source: cafonline

You Added to My Humiliation with Your Touchline Antics - Jose Mourinho Slams Antonio Conte after Chelsea Defeat

Jose Mourinho accused Antonio Conte of humiliating him during Manchester United’s 4-0 defeat to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Sunday. Goals from Pedro, Gary Cahill, Eden Hazard and N’Golo Kante sealed a comfortable win for Chelsea to make it an unhappy return for Mourinho, who was back at his former club for the first time since being sacked last December.

Conte was animated throughout the entire match and celebrated wildly each of Chelsea’s four goals, and Mourinho wasn’t pleased with the Italian’s conduct on the touchline.

After the final whistle, Mourinho went up to Conte and spoke at length in the Chelsea manager’s ear.

And according to Sky Italia, who picked up part of Mourinho’s conversation with Conte, the Portuguese said: It’s just my opinion, but don’t do that at 4-0. You can at 1-0, but at 4-0 it’s humiliation.’

The defeat has left United seventh in the Premier League, while Chelsea are just a point behind leaders Manchester City.

Though Chelsea manager has come out to defend his touchline antics and claimed he never meant to disrespect Mourinho.

"I was listening to the support of Manchester United, always supporting their team and after a great win like this I was asking my fans to do a clap for the players for the performance," he toldSky Sports.

"I think this is normal. All the players deserve this clap.

You're not special any more! Mourinho & Man Utd blown away at the Bridge

"When there is a private conversation it is right to remain private, I have great respect for Jose, he is a great manager and he won a lot here," Conte also told the BBC.

Gary Neville Blasts Paul Pogba and Ander Herrera for Their Embarrassing Display against Chelsea

Gary Neville pulled no punches when talking about Manchester United midfielders Paul Pogba and Ander Herrera. The Red Devils legend was desperately unimpressed after an awful defensive performance by his former club and was heavily critical of the duo.

After already conceding three goals courtesy of Pedro Rodriguez, Gary Cahill and Eden Hazard, United allowed N’Golo Kante to stroll through their defence in truly embarrassing fashion.

The awful contribution from both Herrera and Pogba in that particular moment vexed Neville and he slammed them both after the full-time whistle.

Chelsea 'Hiding' Academy Wonderkid to Keep Him a Secret from Rivals

Chelsea have been accused of ‘hiding’ one of their brightest academy stars in order to stop their Premier League rivals from signing him. Emram Sogolo is currently playing for the club’s Under-13s side and in just four appearances he’s scored 11 goals and registered nine assists.

According to Telefoot, Chelsea are panicking over Sogolo’s impressive performances and are now playing him out of position so that the he is not attracting too much interest.

Chelsea Manager Antonio Conte Tags Jose Mourinho as Chelsea’s Enemy

Antonio Conte has insisted Jose Mourinho will be Chelsea’s enemy this weekend when Manchester United travel to Stamford Bridge on Sunday. The Italian boss became the Portuguese tactician’s permanent replacement after Mourinho left midway through Chelsea’s disastrous defence of their Premier League crown in 2015/16.

Mourinho has since become manager of United and will return to his former club for the first time in charge of the Manchester outfit on Sunday.

And Conte believes Chelsea need to treat him as the enemy upon his return, despite playing such an important role at the club in the past.

‘Mourinho was an important manager for Chelsea,’ he said.

‘He wrote a part of the history of this club. He was an important man for the club.

‘Mourinho deserves a good reception because he wrote history with this club. He remains in the hearts of the fans.

‘When the whistle goes, Mourinho will become an enemy, like the Manchester United players.’

Victor Moses - Jose Mourinho Never Spoke to Me at Chelsea

Chelsea winger Victor Moses has revealed that during Jose Mourinho’s second reign at Stamford Bridge, the Manchester United manager never spoke to him. The Nigeria international, 25, has become an unlikely mainstay in Antonio Conte’s Chelsea team as a right wing-back, with his start against Hull City on 1 October his first for the Blues since May 2013.

During Mourinho’s second spell in charge at Chelsea between 2013-2015, Moses was sent out on loan for the entirety, firstly to Liverpool and then to Stoke.

‘He never spoke to me,’ Moses told ESPNFC of Mourinho.

‘I thought in my head, ‘He’s got his own players already.’

Tottenham Star Dele Alli is Better than Paul Pogba - Ray Parlour claims

Former Arsenal midfielder Ray Parlour has suggested Tottenham Hotspur star Dele Alli is a better player than Paul Pogba. The 20-year-old Spurs man has burst onto the scene over the last 12 months, impressing for club and country, and Parlour has hinted Alli has the edge on Manchester United's world-record summer signing.

Alli has become an integral part of the Tottenham side under Maurcio Pochettino, with Parlour describing him as "an all-round good footballer".

AFCON-2017 Draw - Defending Champion Cote d'Ivoire Starts Campaign against Togo

Cote d'Ivoire will start their defense of the Africa Cup of Nations against Togo in January, according to the draw made Wednesday. Cote d'Ivoire, who beat Ghana on penalties in the 2015 final, are in Group C against Togo, Morocco and Democratic Republic of Congo.

Hosts Gabon will stage the opening match in Libreville on January 14 against Group A opponents Guinea-Bissau who make their first appearance in the 16-nation tournament.

Robin van Persie: I Left Manchester United because of Sir Alex Ferguson Exit

Robin van Persie says he might still be playing for Manchester United, if Sir Alex Ferguson was in charge. The forward was signed by Ferguson in 2012 and was voted Player of the Year in his first season after scoring 31 goals in United's title-winning campaign. 

But, after Ferguson retired at the end of that season, Van Persie's form dipped and he left Old Trafford to join Fenerbahce in 2015.

Ahead of facing his former side on Thursday evening as Fenerbahce travel to United in the Europa League, he has revealed how things might have turned out differently.

No Player is Untouchable even the World most Expensive Player - Says Jose Mourinho

Jose Mourinho insists no player at Manchester United is "untouchable" and refused to confirm whether captain Wayne Rooney would return to the starting line-up against Fenerbahce. Mourinho has used the term in the past, including for his 2005/06 Chelsea title-winning side, to describe a select group of players that cannot be dropped because of the level of their performances.

But ahead of Thursday's Europa League tie at Old Trafford, the United manager said: "That was 11 years ago - different Premiership, different situation. 

"I think untouchable in our team has to be the spirit, the commitment, the pride, the respect to the fans. That has to be untouchable, but not players."

Rooney has endured a difficult start to the season and has been left on the substitutes' bench for the previous four matches by Mourinho.

Manchester United Left Back Luke Shaw Denies Rift with Jose Mourinho

Manchester United left-back Luke Shaw has denied any personal problems with manager Jose Mourinho after coming on the end of some public criticism from the boss last month. The England international was badly at fault for Camilo Zuniga’s goal for Watford in a 3-1 defeat, and was singled out by his manager after the match.

Still, Shaw says he is not bothered by the incident and that he will take Mourinho’s words on board for the future. ‘I have said before, I’m a grown man and take what the manager said,’ he told reporters. 

Injury Boost as Manchester United's Anthony Martial and Morgan Schneiderlin Back in Training

Injury boost for Manchester United as duo back in training. Morgan Schneiderlin and Anthony Martial could return from injury for Manchester United against Fenerbahce in the Europa League, after taking a full part in training on Wednesday. The pair missed United's goalless draw away at Liverpool on Monday Night Football after sustaining knocks in training last weekend.

However, both could feature for United against Fenerbahce at Old Trafford on Thursday, with manager Jose Mourinho likely to rotate his squad ahead of the Super Sunday clash against Chelsea.

Phil Jones was the only absentee from training, with the defender still recovering from a knee injury sustained in September.

Pique and Luis Suarez Clash in Barcelona Training ahead of Man City Match

Sparks flew as Gerard Pique and Luis Suarez squared up in training ahead of Barcelona's Champions League clash with Manchester City. Centre-back Pique took exception to something Suarez did and the pair were involved in a confrontation, but the pictures suggest Suarez was immediately apologetic.

Neymar and Lionel Messi stepped in, and the dispute was quickly resolved with Pique and Suarez all smiles afterwards.

Wednesday night's match sees the return of Pep Guardiola, the man who led Barca to 14 trophies in four glittering years at the Nou Camp. He won 10 trophies during his 11 years at Barca as a player.

Barcelona won their opening two matches in Group C, hammering Celtic 7-0 and Borussia Moenchengladbach 2-1.

They have met City four times in the last three years in the Champions League - winning all four matches.

The dust appears to settle as Pique smiles

Pique looks in better humour after the incident

POGBA Needs Time to Settle - Rooney Backs Pogba to Shine

Just of recent, Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho came out to express high expectation from his world most expensive player, Paul Pogba. Manchester United manager expected more penetration in attack from world-record signing Paul Pogba during the goalless draw with Liverpool. "Had it been 1-0, it would have been finished," Mourinho told Sky Sports. "Where Pogba was playing, I was expecting more penetration", said Morinho

Pogba cost a world-record fee but has been criticised for some of his performances, and Mourinho admitted he expected "more penetration" from the France star at Anfield.

But Rooney said: "Paul is a fantastic player. I think he's working hard and he's doing well. As always, it takes time to settle. I think he is a fantastic player and he will shine for us this season, there is no doubt."

"I'm 31 Next week. I've Got a Lot of Football Left" - Wayne Rooney Laments He's not Finished Yet

Wayne Rooney is determined to show Jose Mourinho he can still play every Manchester United game. Captain for club and country, Rooney has not started for United since their EFL Cup win over Northampton last month and was dropped for England's recent World Cup Qualifier in Slovenia.

But after another bit-part role at Liverpool on Monday, Rooney has made it clear he does not intend staying on the bench forever.

"I think it's football," he said. "Obviously I've started through all my career, so it is a new period for me and of course I want to play.

DONE DEAL - Boca Juniors Starlet Rodrigo Bentancur to Join Juventus Despite Manchester United Approach

Boca Juniors starlet Rodrigo Bentancur is set to join Juventus after the Serie A giants agreed to activate an option to buy 50% of his rights from the Argentinian side for €7.5m (£6.7m, $8.2m). Manchester United, Real Madrid and AC Milan also made approaches to secure the services of the coveted 19-year-old midfielder but Boca president Daniel Angelici has confirmed that the Italian giants are ready to win the battle.

The Uruguay midfielder had attracted the attention of a number of big European giants after emerging as one of the biggest jewels of the prolific Boca academy.

In April, ESPN reported that Arsenal were closely monitoring his development ahead of luring him to the Emirates Stadium while other sources in recent months had linked him with both Real Madrid and AC Milan.

Club Director Confirms Real Madrid's Interest in Javier Hernandez

Real Madrid have confirmed that they would be open to signing Javier Hernandez from Bayer Leverkusen. The Mexico international enjoyed a very good season long loan in the Spanish capital and scored nine goals in 33 appearances. Hernandez was sold by Manchester United to Bayer Leverkusen for £7.3 million just over a year ago and scored 26 goals in 40 games in his debut campaign for the Bundesliga club.

And Madrid are now keen to see him back at the Santiago Bernabeu. 

‘Yes, I’d like to see Chicharito back at Real Madrid as we feel that he is an excellent player,’ Madrid’s club director Santiago Aguado told Fox Sports.

Eric Dier to Play in Defence against Bayer Leverkusen as Tottenham's Injury Woe Continues - Mauricio Pochettino

Tottenham Hotspur boss Mauricio Pochettino has suggested he will turn to Eric Dier to fill in for the injured Toby Alderweireld against Bayer Leverkusen. Alderweireld left the pitch on a stretcher during Tottenham's Premier League clash with West Brom on Saturday. While the club are still waiting to learn the results of a scan, Pochettino was optimistic the Belgium international had not suffered any serious damage.

The Tottenham boss has a number of options to replace Alderweireld for their Champions League tie in Germany on Tuesday evening. Kevin Wimmer, who enjoyed a stint in the first-team when Jan Vertonghen was ruled out at the start of 2016, is available, but has been seldom called upon this season.

The 18-year-old Cameron Carter-Vickers, who made his senior debut for the club in an EFL Cup tie against Gillingham in September, has also been a regular in the Tottenham squad this season. It was Dier who was called upon to replace Alderweireld at the Hawthorns on Saturday however and Pochettino suggests he will place his trust in the England international again in Leverkusen.

"The important thing is we trust in him," Pochettino said of Dier. "It is not important the position he will play – midfield, centre-back or full-back – we believe and trust in him.

"We trust him as a person and his skills. For me, Eric is a player who can develop his game in different positions."

Elsewhere for Tottenham, Harry Kane is still not available for selection but has returned to outdoor training, having suffered an ankle ligament injury in the victory over Sunderland on 18 September.

Danny Rose was rested in the weekend draw with West Brom having featured in both of England's recent World Cup qualifiers, but is likely to return at left-back on Tuesday.

Lyon President Jean-Michel Aulas Reveals Arsenal’s £50million Bid for Alexandre Lacazette

Although he didn’t name anyone in particular, Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas has now revealed further offers of £50m from Premier League clubs, which were still not enough to persuade them to part with their star player. The Gunners were known admirers of the France international, with Lyon confirming at the time that they’d rejected their bid of £29million for him.

‘This summer, we rejected €55m (£49.7m) for Lacazette from two Premier League clubs and €37m from Napoli for (Corentin) Tolisso,’ Aulas told Tuttosport.

Arsenal’s long search for a striker eventually took them to Lucas Perez, who joined from Deportivo La Coruna, though Alexis Sanchez has ended up making the successful transition from out wide to up front this season.

Source: Metro

Barcelona Defender Gerard Pique Says Manchester City are Better Under Guardiola than Manuel Pellegrini

Manchester City are better under Pep Guardiola than they were under Manuel Pellegrini, says Barcelona defender Gerard Pique. Guardiola returns to the Nou Camp as City manager on Wednesday for their Champions League tie and will come up against centre-back Pique, who was a member of the Barcelona team which won 14 trophies between 2008 and 2012 under the Spaniard.

Barca beat City four times out of four in the last 16 of the 2013/14 and 2014/15 competitions when Pellegrini was in charge at the Etihad.

Pique expects a tougher task on Wednesday night, saying: "Pep made a mark on all of us that were with him, there was a before and after. We understood football in a different way and he changed the history of the club.

"I only have complimentary words for him. He gave me the opportunity to come here and gave me everything.

"I think Manchester City is a different team from last year or the years they came here with (Manuel) Pellegrini.

"The style of play is different. They pressure [they put on you] is really high, they try to have the ball and create chances and I think they play like us because Pep Guardiola was here many years.

"He understands football the same way we do. It will be a really challenging game."

Barcelona hold a two-point lead over City at the top of Group C and they will be boosted by the availability of Lionel Messi after a groin injury.

Luka Modric Extends Real Madrid Contract Until 2020

Luka Modric has committed his future to Real Madrid until 2020. The Croatian midfielder, who arrived at the Bernabeu from Tottenham four years ago, has been an influential figure in Real's two recent Champions League-winning campaigns. A statement published on the club's official website revealed Modric had agreed a new four-year deal, tying him to the 32-time Spanish champions well beyond his 34th birthday.

Modric, who will meet the press on Wednesday, has scored 11 goals across 180 appearances in all competitions for Real.

In addition to his two Champions League titles, he tasted Copa del Rey glory in 2014.

Modric's renewal follows midfield partner Toni Kroos's contract extension to 2022 last week, and Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale are expected to follow shortly.

Sky Sports Spanish football expert Guillem Balague said on Monday: "Cristiano Ronaldo's contract is all done, all finalised, they are just waiting for the right time to announce it."

Source: Skysports

Chelsea Warn Diego Costa over Antonio Conte Row vs Leicester City

Chelsea have given Diego Costa a warning about his behaviour after he engaged in a public spat with manager Antonio Conte in Saturday’s win over Leicester City. Costa reportedly became frustrated with the Italian’s ‘micro-management’ style from the touchline, and didn’t make much of an attempt to hide his feelings.

The Spain international was reported as being unsettled at Stamford Bridge over the summer, but has started this season in superb goalscoring form.

Still, there remain hints that all is not well with Costa at Chelsea, and the club have had a word with him about his future conduct, according to the Daily Telegraph.

Ryan Giggs Defends Mourinho’s Defensive Tactics against Liverpool

Manchester United legend Ryan Giggs believes Jose Mourinho did what he had to do in last night’s 0-0 draw against Liverpool. United are not on the best run of form at present, with just one win in their last five Premier League games, and the Welshman hailed Mourinho for going cautious in this big game.

The Red Devils have been widely criticised for contributing to a dull encounter on Merseyside, but Giggs feels if they’d risked a defeat the club could have gone into a full-blown crisis.

On the Pitch, Diego Costa Injects Adrenaline Inside Your Body, He’s a Great Guy and a Good Friend - Thibaut Courtois

That’s according to Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois who believes his former Atletico Madrid team-mate is at the top of his game at the moment. Costa has started the season in stunning form, scoring six goals in seven Premier League matches.

“He’s at his best, he’s playing how he did at Atletico and during his first season here,” he told the club’s website.

“Last year was difficult for everybody but after January he started scoring a lot of goals and he’s taken the form he produced at the end of last season into this one.

“He’s playing very well. It’s great to have a striker who scores so many goals and who can do it easily.

“It makes it difficult for the players behind him such as Michy to get into the team but Diego does everything well.

“We’re happy he’s in this form but it’s down to the whole team to perform well and contribute with goals.”

Courtois has also opened up on Costa’s mentality when he takes to the field as well as his close friendship with the 28-year-old.

“He’s a great guy and a good friend,” he added. “He’s always involved in the jokes but he wants to work hard and he wants to win. 

“On the pitch he goes into a mode where he will give everything to win, he goes for every ball.

“On occasions he can sometimes clash with defenders but that’s simply because he gives everything and I don’t think that’s a bad thing.

“Sometimes it can help the team because when you see a guy performing like that you want to follow, it gets the adrenaline inside your body going and you need that to win games.

“You need players who desperately want to win and who will lead the other players, so we’re very happy with him.”

Jose Mourinho May be Charged by FA about His Remarks Concerning Referee Anthony Taylor

The FA is to look into comments Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has made about referee Anthony Taylor. ahead of Monday night's clash with Liverpool. Taylor is based in Manchester and, despite the fact he supports non-league Altrincham, former ref Keith Hackett said last week he felt his appointment for the high-profile match, live on Sky Sports 1 HD, would place him under pressure.

And, ahead of the Anfield fixture, Mourinho said of Taylor: "I have my view, but I learned a lesson by being so many times punished by some words, so I don't want to say anything about it.

He’s a Very Good Player - Antonio Conte Surprised by Victor Moses’ Development at Wing-back

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte admits he is pleased to see Victor Moses adapt so well to his new role as a wing-back for the Blues. The Nigerian wide-man has spent the last three seasons out on loan at Liverpool, Stoke City and West Ham, but has surprised many by working his way back into Chelsea’s plans this term.

With Branislav Ivanovic unconvincing at the start of this season, Moses has handed Conte a real boost by performing on the right-hand side of the club’s new-look defence. The Italian is happy with Moses’ transition to a more defensive role, and praised the player after he scored in today’s win over Leicester City. 

‘When I arrived at Chelsea I told the club I wanted to see Victor in pre-season because I knew him very well and I knew about his great potential,’ he said.

Chelsea Starlet on Loan at Real Betis Waits 20 Minutes after Match to Meet Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo

It’s not everyday that you get to meet your idol, so it’s crucial to grasp the opportunity with both hands when it does come along. So put yourself in Charly Musonda’s shoes, who was an unused substitute as Real Madrid dismantled his Real Betis side in a 6-1 drubbing on the weekend.

The Belgian, 20, is on loan at Betis from Chelsea but he’s spoken about his admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo in the past and supposedly wears the number seven shirt because of the Portugal star.

After such a heavy defeat, Musonda was probably questioning whether he should show a member of the Real Madrid squad any more respect than Betis had already showed them but this was Ronaldo, after all.

The former Manchester United star was back among the goals during the 6-1 win and duly obliged when Musonda asked for a photo and even signed a shirt for the Chelsea youngster after the game.

Arsenal Star Oxlade-Chamberlain Admits He might Have to Leave Arsenal for Regular Playing Time

Arsenal midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain says he will have to consider his future at the club if Arsene Wenger continues to overlook him. Wenger questioned the winger’s self-belief in the summer and Oxlade-Chamberlain’s made just three starts in the Premier League this season.

The 23-year-old joined the Gunners in 2011 but he’s scored just eight league goals in five years at the club and is behind the likes of Theo Walcott and Alexis Sanchez in the pecking order.

Jack Wilshere left the Gunners to join Bournemouth on loan in the summer – a decision that Oxlade-Chamberlain praised – and the winger’s suggested he too might have to leave the club to restart his career.

‘I’d be lying if I wasn’t going to sit here and say that it has crossed my mind that I need more game time. As a footballer, you want to play every game. Me being myself, I’m not happy when I’m not playing,’ Oxlade-Chamberlain told Goals on Sunday. 

‘There is going to come a time in my career, and I think I’m approaching that, when I do need to be getting more regular football, but my focus completely and utterly now is on playing for Arsenal and still trying to break into the team when I get the opportunity. Help out if I have to come off the bench, do what I did yesterday and come on and make a difference. 

‘My sole aim for now is to help Arsenal and keep pushing myself to play in this team, because you know, I love playing at Arsenal. It’s a great club, it’s a great team and I’ve got a lot of faith in the team. 

‘There is that in my mind that I do want to get more game time. There comes a time in your career where you have to re-evaluate things and think, “Is that going to be here or elsewhere?” 

‘I’m not there at the moment, I’m fully focused on this season, playing my part in that. When you get to the end of the season, just like managers do where they re-evaluate their team, players re-evaluate their personal situation, and I’ll do that at the end of the season.’