duminică, 31 martie 2013

Liverpool duo Carragher and Reina fit for Aston Villa clash

Jamie-CarragherLiverpool first team coach Mike Marsh has confirmed that Jamie Carragher and Pepe Reina will be back in contention to face Aston Villa on Today.


Carragher missed out when Brendan Rodgers' squad traveled to Southampton earlier on this month, while Reina has been unavailable for selection for the last two games due to a calf complaint, but Marsh revealed both are now back in the fray.


"They're both available for selection, so it's a possibility," Marsh told the club's official website.


The first team coach admitted that he was anxious over the fitness of Liverpool's international stars in the past two weeks, and was thrilled that none have reported problems ahead of their return.


"I've got be honest, I'm watching the games and hoping that the players come back fit and well," he added. "Although you do want the players that are representing their country to get a positive result, I'm more concerned that when they come back to Melwood [Liverpool's training complex] that they're fit and ready to play at the weekend.






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Aston Villa midfielder Makoun set to sign Rennes deal

Jean-MakounAston Villa has confirmed that midfielder Jean Makoun is set to leave Villa Park and make his loan deal at Rennes permanent this summer.


The Cameroon international will sign for the French Ligue 1 outfit this summer for an undisclosed fee, having made 22 appearances for Les Rouges et Noirs since joining them on loan last summer.


Makoun has struggled to hold down a place in the Villans squad and has made just seven Premier League appearances since arriving from Lyon for 6 million pounds in January 2011.


In a statement on the club's official website, Aston Villa confirmed that the Cameroonian's brief stay at the club is set to come to an end.


"French Ligue 1 club Rennes will exercise their option to complete a permanent move for Jean Makoun in the summer transfer window.

"The deal for an undisclosed fee will go through on July 1."

Makoun's loan spell at Rennes was preceded by a season-long loan at Olympiakos, where he made 18 appearances and helped the team win the Greek Super League.






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Mourinho bringing Ronaldo to Chelsea

Ronaldo-MourinhoJose Mourinho will become manager of Chelsea in the summer - and he will bring Real Madrid superstar Cristiano Ronaldo with him, according to a report in Sunday's papers.


The Sunday Express claims that Mourinho's return is a virtual certainty. Their claim is based on a leak provided by 'friends of Rafa Benitez', who has apparently confided in the said friends that the reason he has no future at Stamford Bridge is because the Mourinho deal is all but signed.

"Relations have now healed between owner Roman Abramovich and the charismatic Portuguese, who he sacked in 2007 after winning two Premier League titles," the paper reports.

"Abramovich believes Mourinho has unfinished business at Chelsea and is prepared to welcome him back – with the cheque book open...

"Once back in London he will do his best to lure former Manchester United star Ronaldo away from Spain. Mourinho knows that the 28-year-old isn’t content at Real and will test the water with a £60 million offer."

The Mail on Sunday also carries a Chelsea manager story, but with slightly different information: Mourinho is a contender, the paper claims, but Everton boss David Moyes is right beside the Portuguese manager at the top of the short list.

Malaga manager Manuel Pellegrini is also on the list, the Chilean - a former Real Madrid boss - having impressed by taking the cash-strapped club to the Champions League quarter-finals.

Chelsea may not be the only plum job on offer if it turns out that a report in the Sunday Mirror is accurate: Manchester City are said to be hovering an axe over the head of Roberto Mancini, with two of the most powerful men at the Etihad apparently far from convinced that the Italian can take the club any further.

"Mancini will shortly face an end-of-season review to determine whether he is the man to take the Blues forward," the paper reports. "And Frank De Boer, the 42-year-old Ajax coach, will be targeted by the Blues chief executive Ferran Soriano and sporting director Txiki ­Begiristain."

The Mail on Sunday reports that Rio Ferdinand is to be offered a new contract at Manchester United.

It seems Alex Ferguson will reward the defender's loyalty in turning down a recent England call-up by giving him "the opportunity to extend his playing career into his 36th year.

"The central defender is a free agent in June but United manager Sir Alex Ferguson views him in the same way as Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes — a senior player who can continue playing despite his age and can offer vital off-the-field leadership."

The Sun on Sunday reports that Steven Gerrard will be offered a new two-year deal extension at Liverpool on the exact same basis: "Brendan Rodgers believes Steven Gerrard can match Ryan Giggs’ amazing shelf life and carry on playing at the top level for years," the paper writes.

The Sunday Telegraph claims that Liverpool will make five signings in the summer: the names mentioned are Swansea City goalkeeper Michel Vorm and defender Ashley Williams, Newcastle United’s Hatem Ben Arfa, Ajax's Danish midfielder Christian Eriksen and Armenian international Henrikh Mkhitaryan, who currently plays for Ukrainian club Shakhtar Donetsk.

Martin O'Neill's sacking by Sunderland leads to speculation about the new boss, with the Shields Gazette reporting that Roberto Di Matteo, Steve McClaren and Mark Hughes are early favourites to step in to the hot seat.






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sâmbătă, 30 martie 2013

Wenger warns Arsenal players over their futures

arsene-wengerArsene Wenger has warned his Arsenal team how they perform over the Premier League run-in will decide his summer transfer plans.


Wenger is set to have a bumper warchest with which to improve the squad when the transfer window re-opens - and the Arsenal boss wants his players to show him there is no need to bring in reinforcements for their position by finishing what has been a testing campaign in style.

"We have to analyse. What will decide our attitude, my attitude, is how we do now until the end of the season," said Wenger.

"We have had some blips that were not expected, Blackburn and Bradford (in the cup competitions), but overall I must say the attitude of the team has been great and when everyone is here (fit), then we have a strong team.

"What is important is to analyse where we can improve at the end of the season."

Despite his warnings that each man is effectively playing for his place - with even captain Thomas Vermaelen and goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny no longer guaranteed a start - Wenger feels the current squad do deserve a great deal of credit for the way they have hauled themselves back into contention with a run of five wins in the last seven league games.

"They have gone through difficult times and have responded well," he said,

"They have shown mental strength as we lost against Blackburn (at home in the FA Cup), Bayern (in the Champions League at home) and then Tottenham, so as well they could be scared that the group implodes.

"We have shown a strong response against Bayern (in the Champions League away) and also Swansea, so that shows that this group is mentally strong."






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Lambert confident of keeping Benteke and Weimann

Andreas-WeimannBoss Paul Lambert insists in-form Aston Villa strike duo Christian Benteke and Andreas Weimann will remain with the club next season.


Lambert knows keeping hold of the pair and other key players is vital as part of his long-term project to rebuild Villa - and he has the backing of club owner Randy Lerner.

It will be a reversal of Villa's trend in recent seasons of selling leading performers such as Gareth Barry, James Milner, Stewart Downing and Ashley Young.

Benteke has scored 17 goals since his £8million move last summer from Genk and the Belgium international has been linked with a host of clubs.

Weimann has netted 11 goals in his first full campaign of top-flight football and has been offered a new deal by Villa.

Lambert said: "Do I think Weimann and Benteke will be at Villa next season? Yes, yes. I think they want to be here. I've spoken to the lads as well and they've been great with it.

"There is no point in trying to build something if it (players) keep on going away. There is no point in coming in for one year and, after that, the lads go away again.

"I don't think that is building for any sort of future. Do I have the final say on it? Oh yes. I've got to - but Randy (Lerner) has been great with me.

"Everyone knows the situation. If players do well, then teams speak about them. Everyone knows the situation. Whether it is true or not or agents fabricate things remains to be seen.

"When I first came in here, we sat down and explained what I thought. Randy was right behind it, no problem at all.

"He has been excellent with us. There is no point in building something, if a year later it (a player) goes. I don't want to go back to square one."






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Bellamy: I blew my chance at Man City

Craig-BellamyCraig Bellamy has expressed regret over his departure from Manchester City two years ago, admitting he "messed up" his time with the Premier League champions.


The Welshman was signed for City by compatriot Mark Hughes for a reported £14million in 2009 but fell out of favour after Roberto Mancini's arrival and left in 2011 following 51 appearances for the club.

"I don't understand why he managed me the way he did," Bellamy said of Mancini in an interview with the Daily Mail.

"I worked with people like Bobby Robson at Newcastle who taught me how to be a footballer and a man. He did that even though I was a selfish kid back then, a kid who let a great man down with some things I did.

"He wanted us to come in and cherish what we were doing.

"Mancini was different but there was stuff I could have done differently, too.

"I could have been more open but when Sparky (Hughes) went, I shut down. I just wanted stuff to stay the same for me but I got a change of manager and routine.

"I just clammed up, didn't want to know. Typical.

"Mancini didn't have to persevere with me because he could just go and get someone else and that's what happened.

"But I regret that. I could have made that work. That's one I messed up."






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vineri, 29 martie 2013

Overmars confirms Reds interest in Eriksen

Christian-EriksenAjax technical director Marc Overmars has confirmed Liverpool are keeping a close watch on midfielder Christian Eriksen.


The 21-year-old Denmark international is one of Europe's hottest prospects but he is out of contract in just over a year and it is expected numerous clubs will make a move this summer.

Liverpool have closely monitored the youngster's progress over the last couple of years and Overmars is well aware of their interest.

"We have the list of the scouts of foreign clubs who have been here recently and Liverpool has been a regular visitor," he told Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf.

Reds manager Brendan Rodgers is looking to add three or four players in the summer transfer window as he tries to improve the depth of his squad.

His priority is a centre-back to replace the retiring Jamie Carragher with speculation linking Rodgers with a return to his former club Swansea for Wales captain Ashley Williams.

Rodgers is also expected to make a renewed attempt to bring Blackpool winger Tom Ince back to the club after negotiations hit an impasse in early January.






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World Cup - Rio unhappy with England fans

rio-ferdinandRio Ferdinand has hit out at the fans who sang abusive songs about him and his brother Anton during England's win over San Marino last week.


A number of England supporters joined in the singing of a song suggesting the brothers should be burned on a bonfire - it has been suggested the song had racist overtones because Anton Ferdinand was the target of racist abuse from former England captain John Terry.

Anti-racism body FARE have reported England to FIFA over the chants and the Football Association is awaiting official notification regarding the complaint. "You expect+accept banter from fans on the terraces as its part of what makes the game great,but racism is not banter,& from ya own fans. WOW," Ferdinand tweeted.

"Always a small minority who ruin it for others. Let's not jump to conclusions + assume though as it might just have been banter. We'll see after the investigation."

The Manchester United defender was vilified by fans after withdrawing from the England squad to play the game because it did not fit in with his "intricate" and "pre-planned" training programme, although he then travelled to Qatar to commentate on England's 8-0 victory.

FARE's executive director Piara Powar told the Press Association on Thursday: "Although we did not have observers at the match we have pulled together evidence sent to us including media comment and have passed that on to FIFA.

"I think that it's one of those things that is very subtle. We would say racism and other forms of discrimination is not always banana throwing and monkey chants. It can be very subtle and the people collating the reports believed it is strong enough to send on to FIFA.

"From the reports we have seen I personally think there was an undercurrent of race there, and other people have thought that it has been imbued with racist overtones.

"Whether FIFA think that is strong enough to take action is another question entirely and we accept that it is certainly an unusual report.''






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Benitez: Break was good for Terry

john-terryRafael Benitez believes captain John Terry is fit enough to lead Chelsea into the defining period of their season after benefiting from the recent international break.


Terry's campaign has been severely disrupted by a knee injury and he has been unable to play consistently for Chelsea since returning to action in January. But Terry's decision to retire from England duty gave him two weeks in which to work on his fitness and break the "vicious circle" in which he had found himself trapped.

Chelsea's Barclays Premier League clash with Southampton on Saturday is the first of five games in 13 days, that includes quarter-final ties in the FA Cup and Europa League. "Every time when a player is injured he needs time to come back. This break is important," Benitez said.

"He was training with us every day and improving his fitness. We had just five players so we could pay more attention to everyone. He was positive and it was positive in terms of the time we had with him.

"It is just a question of how many games can you play? We will have four games in nine days. It is the same for everyone. You can't play all these games and be 100 per cent - not just him, everyone."

Chelsea face a gruelling schedule and Benitez admitted it will be impossible to field a full-strength side in every game because players cannot perform at their peak twice inside 48 hours.

But Benitez welcomed the packed calendar and selection headaches.

"The most difficult one will be these two games (coming up) because they are so close," Benitez said. "It is better to have this problem than be at home watching it on the telly because it means you are still competing."

Benitez is also hoping that Gary Cahill and Ramires will be available to face Saints.

"We have to ensure we have a competitive team against Southampton and a competitive team against United. We have to manage the squad carefully," he said.






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joi, 28 martie 2013

Nacho Monreal says Arsenal must not waste energy

nacho-monrealDefender Nacho Monreal has urged Arsenal not to waste energy by taking notice of any critics and instead channel all their attention into finishing in the top four of the Barclays Premier League.


The Gunners will resume domestic action with a home match against relegation-battlers Reading, an encounter they must win to keep pressure on both Chelsea and Tottenham in the race for Champions League qualification.


With just one defeat in the last seven league games, coming at White Hart Lane, Arsene Wenger's men find themselves four points behind arch-rivals Spurs, but crucially with a match in hand.


Arsenal have endured one of the most testing campaigns under Wenger's tenure, with the 2-0 win in Bayern Munich earlier this month one of the few highlights.


Monreal, however, insists it is now down to the players to focus on delivering a positive end to what others have labelled a season of turmoil at the Emirates Stadium.


In an interview with the April edition of the official Arsenal magazine, Monreal said: "We still have matches left to fix the situation and to try to meet our objectives.


"It is logical that people talk because the situation has not been as it should be, but the players and club in general have to ensure that doesn't affect us.


"We have to use our energy for the matches. If you are thinking of what people are saying, you are wasting that energy. You have to concentrate on the next match.


"Every fixture now is a final we have to win. That has to be our mentality. I am sure we will put it right."


Monreal, 27, has settled quickly since his January deadline day signing from Malaga, scoring his first Arsenal goal in the 2-0 win at Swansea before the international break and then impressing in last night's World Cup qualifying win for Spain over France in Paris when deputising at full-back for the injured Jordi Alba.


Gunners midfielder Santi Cazorla praised the speed at which his former Malaga team-mate has taken to the hustle-and-bustle of the English top flight.


"Nacho is a footballer I really enjoy watching and playing with. He has adapted to the Premier League very well. What's more, our style of play suits him because he is someone with a lot of movement," Spain international Cazorla told Arsenal Player.


"He is a very good signing, and is proving it.


"I think Arsenal have really got it right with the transfer. I am very happy because he is a great mate."


Like most Premier League clubs, the majority of the Arsenal squad were away on international duty this week.


However, England duo Jack Wilshere and Theo Walcott were not involved in the World Cup qualifiers against San Marino and Montenegro.


Walcott returned early after picking up what was described as a "minor hip/groin injury" in training ahead of the San Marino game, during which Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain scored in the 8-0 route.


Midfielder Wilshere, meanwhile, has not played since the defeat at Tottenham on March 3 after he was rested because of an ankle problem. His rehabilitation schedule - which included a trip to Dubai - was set to see Wilshere feature again this weekend.


Goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny, meanwhile, will be hoping for a recall having been dropped against Bayern and then benched at Swansea - which prompted an outburst from his father and a subsequent clarification from the Poland international, reaffirming his commitment to the club and support for Wenger.






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Hodgson's amazing defence of his hapless England stars

roy-hodgsonRoy Hodgson has defended his stuttering side after they could manage only a draw in Montenegro.


Roy Hodgson issued an astonishing defence of his misfiring England team, claiming they failed to beat their main World Cup rivals because they are 'not robots'.


Tuesday night's disappointing display in Podgorica was the third draw of England's qualifying campaign and left Hodgson admitting his side may have to settle for a place in the play-offs.


After the 1-1 draw with group leaders Montenegro, Hodgson was asked why his players still fail to retain possession and pass as well as supposedly inferior teams like Montenegro, Poland and Ukraine.


'The simple answer is they're human beings, not robots,' he said. 'These things happen in football, you know.'


It was a worrying reaction given England's precarious position in trying to reach next year's World Cup in Brazil - as was Wayne Rooney's admission that England were taught a lesson by a country with a population of just 650,000.


Rooney said: 'In the second half they came at us and we didn't keep the ball well enough at times. It was a lesson for us in the second half and we need to learn how to see out these games better.'


Hodgson admitted England are 'hanging on' to their World Cup dream as fears grow that they will be forced into a play-off in November.


England blew the chance to take top spot in Group H as Montenegro, who remain two points clear, recovered from Rooney's early goal.


FIFA have yet to decide whether to use a seeding system for the runners-up but as things stand, Portugal, Croatia, Greece and France are among the potential opponents.


Hodgson admitted: 'We're a couple of points down on where we'd like to have been but we're still hanging on in there. Nobody wants to be in the play-offs but

I will worry about them when they come around. If it's the play-offs it's going to be (against) a good team because in every group there are at least two good teams. We've got an important four to five weeks in September and October

with three matches at home and one difficult one away in Ukraine. At least by not losing against Montenegro we keep it in our hands and give ourselves a chance.'


England's next qualifier is against Moldova at Wembley on September 6, followed by a tricky trip to Ukraine four days later.


They finish the campaign with matches at Wembley against Montenegro on

October 11 and Poland on October 15.


Hodgson added: 'At the moment I shall focus all my attention on the summer, first to try to do as good a job when we play Ireland at home (May 29) and then when we go to Brazil.


'After that I shall work even harder to focus my attention on those important four qualifiers through September and October.


'I'm not here to say what expectation should or should not be. All I can say is I know what my job is. I'm trying to do it to the best of my ability. I believe in the players and I believe we will achieve our goal.'


Hodgson is so concerned by the prospect of finishing second in the group that he intends to pick full-strength squads for the end-of-season matches against the Republic of Ireland at Wembley and the trip to Brazil in early June, despite the tempting opportunity to bring in some inexperienced players.


England kick off next season with a friendly at Wembley against Scotland before the four qualifying games that will shape Hodgson's future as national coach.


Yesterday the FA were dealing with other matters as they discussed security issues at the City Stadium in Podgorica. One picture taken inside the stadium appeared to show a Montenegro supporter spitting in the direction of Ashley

Cole, but it is inconclusive.


The FIFA delegate at the match will submit his report today and he is expected to mention fighting among Montenegro supporters before the game.


Toilet rolls used as missiles towards England players were also a feature of the game and there were claims that Cole was spat at when taking throw-ins.


But the FA are unlikely to report the matter officially to FIFA. They have also decided to overlook the cheerleading Montenegro fan who used a loudhailer to sing at the end of the game.


Thousands of Montenegro fans joined in to make it a disappointing end to the game, especially after they had applauded England's national anthem before the start.


Dejan Damjanovic, scorer of Montenegro's equaliser, said: 'England didn't play a bad game, we played a bad game in the first half and great in the second.


Drawing against a strong team like England is a big success for Montenegro.'






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miercuri, 27 martie 2013

More to come from Guzan

Brad Guzan feels he can improve further.


brad-guzanAston Villa's Brad Guzan has enjoyed an impressive campaign but the keeper insists he can still improve.


Villa have endured a miserable season by their standards but Guzan's form has been one of the few positives for the struggling club.

The Midlands outfit are just three points clear of the relegation zone and can be backed at 2.87 to go down, but they did secure back-to-back wins over Reading and QPR prior to the international break to boost their survival chances.

Guzan has been in fine form this season and made a number of important saves in the 3-2 win over QPR, but the 28-year-old USA international believes he is yet to reach his peak.

"Goalkeeping is not about mastering it and now you are the best, you have to be willing to put the work in and continue to fight," said Guzan told the Express & Star.

"Every day there is room to improve. You look at a guy like Brad Friedel. He would probably say the same that he continues to try and get better.

"Goalkeepers tend to peak at a later part in your career. Hopefully I can keep this up and continue to be called upon. If that happens then I want to do a job."

Guzan started for his country in the 1-0 win over Costa Rica on Friday in the absence of regular No.1 Tim Howard, who has a back injury.

Villa host Liverpool this weekend and can be backed at 4.75 to take all three points.

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Adkins plots escape route

nigel-adkins-1New manager Nigel Adkins says he is relishing the challenge of keeping relegation-threatened Reading in the Premier League.


The 48-year-old was on Tuesday confirmed as the successor to Brian McDermott at the Madejski Stadium and has signed a contract until the summer of 2016.

Adkins was dismissed by Premier League rivals Southampton in January and is charged with the task of preserving the Royals' top-flight status. Reading are quoted 1.071 in the 'to be relegated' market and 1.53 to finish bottom.

The former physiotherapist said the circumstances of his sacking at St Mary's was "in the hands of the League Managers' Association" but stressed it was time draw a line in the sand.

"I've not made any comments since I left Southampton and I want to take the opportunity to thank all the people there," Adkins told a press conference.

"I thank the fans, the players and supporters. We were on a fantastic journey but we have to move on now."

Adkins' first game in charge sees second-from-bottom Reading - currently seven points adrift of safety - make the trip to take on top-four chasers Arsenal on Saturday.

He added: "I am pleased to be the Reading manager. We will take it one game at a time and try and keep this club in the Premier League.

"It's a good club, I've been impressed with them and I've always known what sort of club it is. We're in the Premier League and we want to stay there. I am excited."

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marți, 26 martie 2013

Talk is cheap says Gerrard - Bet on world cup qualifiers

steven-gerrardSteven Gerrard has insisted England have 2014 World Cup Group H qualifying rivals Montenegro "exactly where we want them".


The Liverpool captain was responding to a bullish press conference from Montenegro coach Branko Brnovic in which he labelled Roy Hodgson's men a long-ball side and suggested the Three Lions were getting their excuses in early in case they leave Podgorica's City Stadium empty-handed.

Kop hero Gerrard dismissed the comments and suggested it was a clear sign of nerves from Brnovic.

"For their manager to say the things he's said shows we've got them exactly where we want them," he said.

"They seem to be more interested in saying things and doing all the talking."

"Talking doesn't win you football matches. Playing well wins you matches," he added.

England are quoted 1.85 to get the win in the 90 minutes market, with draw on offer at 3.60 and the Montenegro victory is available to back at 4.80.

Victory for England on Tuesday and they would go above their hosts at the top of Group H, ahead of four remaining qualifiers against Moldova (h) on 6th September, Ukraine (a) on 10thh September, Montenegro (h) on 11th October and Poland (h) four days later.

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luni, 25 martie 2013

England ready for Podgorica pressure - Bet on the 2014 World Cup

alex-oxlade-chamberlainEngland winger Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain accepts that the pressure will be on his side when they take on Montenegro in a key World Cup qualifier in Podgorica.


The Three Lions head to the Balkans on the back of an 8-0 thrashing of San Marino, with Montenegro having retained their two-point lead in Group H by edging a 1-0 victory in Moldova.

That sets up a key encounter in the City Stadium in the Montengrin capital, with the home side 5.00 to win the game, the draw 3.75 and an England victory 1.80.

Arsenal star Oxlade-Chamberlain, who scored in the rout of San Marino, said: "It is the key game, definitely. It is good to win every game, but with them being top of the group, it is even more important.

"We know what we've got to do, it's a pressure game but they are all pressure games for us.

"It will be hostile, but if you look around this squad, the players have experienced hostile environments before at club and international level.

"If we can match them mentally and physically and approach the game in a right way, we've got a good chance."

England will hope to have centre-back Gary Cahill back in contention for the crucial clash with Montenegro, with the Chelsea man having missed the San Marino game due to a knee injury.

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Keane to miss Austria showdown

robbie-keaneVeteran striker Robbie Keane has been ruled out of the Republic of Ireland's crunch World Cup qualifier against Austria by a calf strain.


Both the Irish and Austria are one point behind second-placed Sweden in Group C, as the countries prepare to face off at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin on Tuesday evening.

Ireland, who are 2.15 to win the game, 2.50 to keep a clean sheet and 5.50 to qualify for the 2014 finals, will have to do without Keane, with Wolves frontman Kevin Doyle drafted in as a replacement.

A FAI statement read: "A scan confirmed that Robbie is suffering from calf strain after Friday's game against Sweden. Kevin Doyle has been called up in place of Keane.

"The manager has spoken to Kevin and he will link up with the squad in time for training in Malahide."

Head coach Giovanni Trapattoni has plenty of options for the clash with Austria, with West Brom's Shane Long his first-choice attacker.

Doyle, Conor Sammon, Andy Keogh and Simon Cox are also in contention for a starting spot for an Irish side in good heart after a goalless draw in Swden on Friday evening.

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Bale on course to face Croatia

gareth-bale-walesWales star Gareth Bale is set to recover from his recent stomach bug to be able to face Croatia on Tuesday at the Liberty Stadium.


The Spurs winger caused an entire nation to hold its collective breath after he was subbed at half-time in Friday's 2-1 World Cup qualifying victory over Scotland.

And scores of Tottenham fans were also put at ease when Bale took to Twitter to reveal he had not suffered a recurrence of his ankle problem.

Bale has rested up over the last 48 hours and is set to train later today in Cardiff.

One player who will be missing from the qualifier is Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey, following his stoppage-time red card for a foul on Scotland's James McArthur.

Bale's former Spurs team-mate Luka Modric insists that his Croatia side will not take the Welsh lightly, saying: "We know we will be up against a good team in Wales.

"They will be roared on by a passionate crowd. Only a win will do for us, otherwise the win over Serbia will lose a lot of its gloss."

Wales are 5.50 to win Tuesday evening's game in Swansea, with the draw 3.75, while Croatia are 1.72 to secure a victory.

Don't forget, all of the fantastic markets, including In-Play betting, can be accessed on mobile or tablet with bet365 On The Move.






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duminică, 24 martie 2013

Lampard delight at landmark

Jermain Defoe wants a starting spot for England.


jermain-defoeFrank Lampard has spoken of his immense pride, after his strike in the 8-0 victory over San Marino earned him the accolade as England's highest-scoring midfielder.


The 34-year-old, who is now just five caps away from his 100th appearance for his country, netted the 28th international goal of his career in the World Cup qualifier, and in doing so moved himself ahead of David Platt on the all-time midfielder scoring list.

Speaking on the landmark, Lampard said: "It feels very good to be England's highest midfield goalscorer. I'm very proud of that achievement.

"All my career, I've looked to score goals. It was great to be up there with the likes of the Bryan Robson's and the David Platt's.

"Now I am above them and it was also an honour as always to wear the armband for your country.

"Stevie (Gerrard) will be back on Tuesday (in Tuesday's match against Montenegro) so he will take it, but I am really pleased with how I played," added Lampard, who this week also netted his 200th goal for Chelsea.

Also on the mark twice in the win was Jermain Defoe, and the Tottenham hitman said he was hoping his performance had given him a chance of a starting spot against Montenegro.

"Have I helped my chances of playing Tuesday? As a forward you want to play and get your goals and I got my chances and managed to score two goals," said the 30-year-old.

"I've always been the same - when you get given an opportunity, you've got to take it and grab it with both hands.

"I don't know what is happening on Tuesday - but if selected I'll be ready."

England are rated as 1.75 to claim the win over Montenegro, with the hosts 4.75.

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Cole backs Allardyce

Sam Allardyce has been praised by Joe Cole.


sam-allardyceWest Ham midfielder Joe Cole has praised Sam Allardyce and expressed his hope he will still be manager at Upton Park next season.


The Hammers currently sit 14th in the Premier League following their return to the top-flight, and Cole is in no doubt of the job Allardyce, who is out of contract at the end of the season, has done.

"Sam has done a great job and has been fantastic with me," said Cole, who has been capped 56 times by England.



"He has an unbelievable record as a manager, is an experienced manager and you see what he is about on a daily basis. What a great manager he is."

If Allardyce can secure West Ham's survival this season, this will be a massive boost to his chances of staying as manager if negotiations on a new contract are held in the summer, and Cole is determined to do all he can to help his cause.

He said: "We want to stick another two or three wins on the board and I am sure that will be much more than enough (to stay up).

"The gaffer came in when the club was in a bad state and has done a phenomenal job.

"The owners have done a great job backing him and the lads, the players, have done a great job to come up. It is very difficult to do that.

"We can't rest on our laurels now. We've got to constantly move forward and try to win every game," added the 31-year-old who rejoined the club in January from Liverpool.

West Ham are rated as 15.00 to be relegated from the Premier League this season, with Aston Villa 2.87.

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sâmbătă, 23 martie 2013

Going Report for Saturday 23rd March - Bet on Horse Racing

Going Report for Saturday 23rd March - Bet on Horse Racing

lingfield-snow-cai

Get the going for today's horse racing meetings with Best Odds Guaranteed at bet365.


Southwell

Going - Standard.

First Race - 13:25 UK

Last Race - 16:50 UK

Seven Races
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Tags: Best Odds Guaranteed |Horse Racing | Southwell

Aguero nearing City return

Aguero nearing City return

sergio-aguero

Sergio Aguero is set to hand Manchester City a major boost when the squad returns from international duty later next week.


The Blues striker has been missing for the last month with a niggle in his knee which has plagued him on and off since the start of the campaign.

But Aguero is hoping to get the green light from City's doctors, who will step up his fitness programme over the next 48 hours.

Aguero, who has notched 13 goals this term, flew back from Buenos Aries in midweek, having also been assessed by the Argentine team national doctor.

The frontman is now determined to play an integral part in the run-in, with City in the FA Cup semi-final at Wembley later next month.

City boss Roberto Mancini would like to have his man back for next weekend's Premier League clash at home to Newcastle United, but the Manchester derby, a week later, is seen as a more realistic comeback date.

City are 1.30 beat Newcastle, 5.50 to draw and 10.00 to lose to the Magpies at the Etihad Stadium.

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Haidara survives ligament scare

Haidara survives ligament scare

alan-pardew-2

Newcastle United defender Massadio Haidara has managed to come away from his tackle with Wigan's Callum McManaman, without any knee ligament damage.


The 20-year-old was on the wrong end of a controversial tackle in the Magpies' 2-1 defeat at the hands of the Latics in their last outing and there were fears the Frenchman could be out for the rest of the season.

However scans have revealed bruising to the bone and soft tissue damage is the full extent of what Haidara will have to recover from and the defender could be back in action for manager Alan Pardew's team as early as next month.

A statement on the club's official website read: "Massadio will continue to be assessed over the coming days. He has been very lucky that he has not suffered more serious injury.

"This positive diagnosis in no way lessens the club's views with regard to the severity of the tackle from which it resulted."

Next up for the Magpies, who will of course be without Haidara, in the Premier League are defending champions Manchester City in an encounter at the Etihad Stadium on March 30.

City are 1.30 beat Newcastle, 5.50 to draw and 10.00 to lose to the Magpies at the Etihad Stadium.

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Fixture congestion concerns Irish - Best bet on World Cup Qualifiers

generic-snow2The Northern Ireland FA are set to hold crisis talks with FIFA over their mounting fixture pile-up.


Their World Cup qualifier with Russia was called off late Friday night due to heavy snow which has fallen on the Windsor Park pitch over the last two days.

The game has been rescheduled for 3pm today and a further update will be provided at 10.30am following another pitch inspection.

Groundstaff and volunteers have been working frantically throughout the night to now try and make the Belfast pitch playable.

But Irish football chiefs are understandably concerned with yet another home qualifier due to be played this coming Tuesday against Israel.

A meeting will take place this evening to review all the options and possible dates in the calendar should the weather again take its toll.

Northern Ireland are 8.00 to win, 4.00 to draw and 1.53 to beat Russia on Today.

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Aguero nearing City return

sergio-agueroSergio Aguero is set to hand Manchester City a major boost when the squad returns from international duty later next week.


The Blues striker has been missing for the last month with a niggle in his knee which has plagued him on and off since the start of the campaign.

But Aguero is hoping to get the green light from City's doctors, who will step up his fitness programme over the next 48 hours.

Aguero, who has notched 13 goals this term, flew back from Buenos Aries in midweek, having also been assessed by the Argentine team national doctor.

The frontman is now determined to play an integral part in the run-in, with City in the FA Cup semi-final at Wembley later next month.

City boss Roberto Mancini would like to have his man back for next weekend's Premier League clash at home to Newcastle United, but the Manchester derby, a week later, is seen as a more realistic comeback date.

City are 1.30 beat Newcastle, 5.50 to draw and 10.00 to lose to the Magpies at the Etihad Stadium.

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Haidara survives ligament scare

alan-pardew-2Newcastle United defender Massadio Haidara has managed to come away from his tackle with Wigan's Callum McManaman, without any knee ligament damage.


The 20-year-old was on the wrong end of a controversial tackle in the Magpies' 2-1 defeat at the hands of the Latics in their last outing and there were fears the Frenchman could be out for the rest of the season.

However scans have revealed bruising to the bone and soft tissue damage is the full extent of what Haidara will have to recover from and the defender could be back in action for manager Alan Pardew's team as early as next month.

A statement on the club's official website read: "Massadio will continue to be assessed over the coming days. He has been very lucky that he has not suffered more serious injury.

"This positive diagnosis in no way lessens the club's views with regard to the severity of the tackle from which it resulted."

Next up for the Magpies, who will of course be without Haidara, in the Premier League are defending champions Manchester City in an encounter at the Etihad Stadium on March 30.

City are 1.30 beat Newcastle, 5.50 to draw and 10.00 to lose to the Magpies at the Etihad Stadium.

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vineri, 22 martie 2013

Evans ready for NI duty - Bet on world cup qualifiers

jonny-evansJonny Evans says Manchester United's international brigade always depart Old Trafford with a sense of calm.


The Northern Ireland defender will hope to put the block on Russia tonight in their World Cup qualifier.

And while the Group F encounter will take up all his focus, Evans feels United still play a vital role in helping him to perform to the maximum.

The 26-year-old has played 25 times for the Red Devils this term, despite Sir Alex Ferguson's strict rotation policy.

Evans feels he and the rest of his United colleagues join up with their respective nations with a real sense of perspective.

The central defender insists: "I think we've all now come to realise that the manager chops and changes his teams.

"I do think that takes away any animosity among the lads - if someone is taking your place at United, you understand the manager is doing it for the right reasons."

The ground staff at Windsor Park will be working furiously over the coming hours to clear the pitch of snow.

A decision will be taken closer to kick-off with FIFA planning for the game to take place 24 hours later if required.

Northern Ireland are 8.00 to win, 4.00 to draw and 1.53 to beat Russia on Today night.

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Belgium reluctant to risk Kompany - Bet on world cup qualifiers

Roberto Mancini has been without Vincent Kompany's services since January.


vincent-kompany-4Belgium will consult with Manchester City over the next 24 hours to ensure Vincent Kompany is saved from himself.


Kompany, who is captain for both his club and country, has not played a first-team game since January. The central defender has been plagued by a calf problem all season and City don't want him to suffer yet another setback.

Kompany has trained with the Belgium squad since Monday, ahead of their two World Cup qualifying games against FYR Macedonia.

He will be further assessed after Thursday's session before a final decision is made to any involvement.

"I am in daily contact with the Manchester City doctor," insists Belgian national physio Lieven Maesschalck.

Belgium are 15.00 to beat FYR Macedonia 3-1 on Today and are 26.00 to win next year's World Cup while hosts Brazil are available at 4.20.

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Ponturi Pariuri 22.03.2013 - EUROPA: Cupa Mondiala - Calificari

Ponturi Pariuri 22.03.2013 - EUROPA: Cupa Mondiala - Calificari

Pariuri-Pro, pariuri sportive onlineLumea pariurilor, la fel ca si cea a sportului, e una in care se traieste intens. Un meci pe care il vedem la televizor devine mult mai palpitant daca am pus si niste bani pe el. Victoria echipei favorite poate fi si a noastra daca am pariat. Dar e asa usor sa castigam? Ei bine, nu! E nevoie si de o strategie, si de cunostinte si de… noroc. Norocul nu il putem antrena, insa cu celelalte ne putem obisnui, facand astfel primul pas spre ceea ce ar putea fi numit “parior profesionist”. Primul pas doar, pentru ca putini merg pana la capat, insa acesta nu e un lucru rau. Putem pastra pariurile ca un hobby, castigand din cand sume de bani si bucurandu-ne de ceea ce facem. Indiferent pe care cale alegeti sa mergeti, trebuie sa stiti cateva lucruri pentru inceput.

Cine? Ce? Cand? Cum? Unde?

Cam acestea sunt intrebarile pe care le are un microbist in momentul in care decide sa parieze pentru prima data.
Vreau sa pariez pe Steaua!
Vreau sa pariez pe Real Madrid!

sau

Dar cum pariez? Si unde?
Si cat castig daca pun 10 lei?
.
Ei bine, aveti noroc pentru ca acestea sunt cele mai simple intrebari. Si raspunsurile sunt la fel de simple si de sigure. La pariuri, nimic nu e sigur in afara acestor raspunsuri. Credeai ca bate Barcelona si s-a impiedicat? Manchester United a facut egal acasa? Ei bine, asta e viata de parior, cu succesele sale atat de dulci si cu mici dezamagiri. Insa dezamagirile sunt mai mici atunci cand privim in ansamblu si intelegem ca nu avem cum sa castigam de fiecare data. Golul din minutul 90 poate sa cada fie intr-o poarta, fie in cealalta.

Casele de pariuri

Le-am vazut pe strada, stim ca prietenii nostri merg saptamanal acolo si ca apoi discuta ore intregi despre biletele pe care le-au jucat. Ei bine, ceea ce multi dintre ei nu stiu e ca in afara agentiilor stradale exista si un numar mare de agentii online, care ofera avantaje mult mai mari. Jucand pe Internet, castigul intra in intregime in buzunarele tale, fara sa mai platesti taxele si impozitele care iti “mananca” o buna parte din profit. Ce inseamna asta? Ei bine, sa spunem ca mizam 10 lei pe un bilet. Acestia sunt impozitati o data in momentul in care depui biletul la casierie, miza reala nefiind 10 lei, ci undeva in jur de 9.50 lei, ceea ce inseamna ca profitul va fi mai mic! In plus, orice suma castigata care este intre 600 si 10.600 lei se impoziteaza cu 20%, iar pentru sume de peste 10.600 lei, impozitul este de 25%.
Agentiile de pariuri online nu percep astfel de taxe. Aici, fiecare castig este creditat in contul de pariuri imediat ce pariul e validat ca fiind castigator, iar pariorul poate retrage integral suma in cauza.
Si inca un avantaj. Casele de pariuri de pe Internet au o oferta mult superioara celor de pe strada. Putem paria pe aproape orice, sunt zeci si chiar sute de variante, iar totul se petrece in intimitatea casei tale, cu calculatorul in fata si cu toate informatiile la indemana. Si, fiind cu televizorul alaturi, e foarte usor sa pariem live, in functie de ceea ce vedem pe micul ecran, cu o bere in mana si cu picioarele pe birou.

joi, 21 martie 2013

Sturridge keen to impress - Bet on World Cup 2014

Daniel Sturridge wants to become an England regular.


daniel-sturridge-2Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge hopes to establish himself as an England regular by impressing against San Marino and Montenegro.


England face San Marino on Friday and Montenegro on Tuesday in a World Cup 2014 qualifying double-header.

Sturridge has four England caps to his name to date but is yet to score for the national side and the striker hopes to break his duck in the upcoming qualifiers.

"It's every player's dream to establish themselves as an England regular," Sturridge said.

"Wherever you come from in the world you want to establish yourself in the national team. It's important for you as a player and for your family.

"To help your country be part of successes is special and hopefully I'll be a part of some sort of success with England in the future."

The 23-year-old striker is priced at 4.33 to open the scoring against San Marino on Friday and 8.00 to score three or more goals.

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Adam: We have to go for it - Bet on World Cup 2014

adam-charlieScotland midfielder Charlie Adam admits his side simply have to win Friday's World Cup qualifier with Wales.


Scotland are currently bottom of the Group A table with just two points, while Wales are a point above Adam's side ahead of Friday's meeting at Hampden Park.

Both sides seem set to miss out on a place in the World Cup in Brazil next year but Adam hasn't given up hope just yet.

The Stoke midfielder is well aware that defeat would spell an end to their chances of competing in the World Cup and insists Scotland will go all out for the win in Gordon Strachan’s first competitive game in charge.

"We have to go for it, we are not in a good position and if we want to do something then we better start on Friday night," said Adam.

"We are a better team (than points total suggest) but we are the only ones who can fix it.

"We will need to attack and we will do.

"It is a challenge. Everyone in Scotland thinks we can win, the players think we can win but it is going to be a tough match."

Scotland are 1.85 to come out on top on Friday, Wales can be backed at 4.75 and the draw is 3.60.

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Surgery ends Allen's season

Brendan Rodgers bought Joe Allen from Swansea City last summer.


brendan-rodgersJoe Allen will not play again this season after Liverpool confirmed that the 23-year-old Wales international needs to have an operation on his left shoulder.


Allen, who moved to Anfield last summer from Swansea City, has seen his form deteriorate in the last few weeks and his discomfort was such that he had to be substituted at half-time during Liverpool's 3-1 defeat by Southampton on Saturday.

Allen, who was a key part of current Reds boss Brendan Rodgers' Swansea City side, has started 21 Premier League matches this season following his £15million move from south Wales.

Liverpool first-team doctor Zaf Iqbal said: "Joe Allen is due to have a left shoulder operation on Thursday morning in Liverpool and will be ready to return to football at the beginning of next season."

Despite losing at St Mary's, Liverpool continue to push for a top-four spot and they are 21.00 to succeed in their aim while Everton can be backed at 10.00 and Tottenham at 2.00.

Meanwhile, Rodgers has given permission for Raheem Sterling to represent England at the European U21 Championship this summer.

Rodgers is keen not to overplay the 18-year-old, who has become a first-team regular at Liverpool this season, but said: "I spoke to Stuart Pearce because we have a number of England U21 boys here and I don't think it would do Raheem any harm.

"He's had a good season and going to a tournament like that, if selected, will be good for his experience."

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Lescott backed to impress for England

Joleon Lescott could be back on the international stage in San Marino.


joleon-lescottJoleon Lescott will not let England down if called upon by Roy Hodgson for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against San Marino and Montenegro.


The Manchester City centre-back has been something of a spare part at the Etihad Stadium this season under boss Roberto Mancini.

But Lescott is now in line for his 25th cap after Hodgson was forced to draft in the defender following a number of injuries and pull-outs.

Rio Ferdinand, Gary Cahill, Michael Dawson and Phil Jagielka will all miss the clash with San Marino, with Steven Caulker, Chris Smalling, Steven Taylor and Lescott the options at Hodgson's disposal.

And the 30-year-old will be more than up to the task, despite a lack of first-team starts at City this term, according to his club team-mate James Milner.

Milner, who will also be looking to get the nod against San Marino, insists: "Joleon hasn't played a load of games for City this year, but when he had done, he has played well.

"Joleon has played a lot of games for England and is a top player. He is full of confidence and ready to go. He will be ready for Friday."

England's only previous trip to San Marino, in November 1993, saw them concede a goal within the first few seconds, before going on to register a 7-1 victory.

This time around, England are 1.02 to score first and 5.50 to win by a 5-0 margin, with Wayne Rooney 4.00 to score a three goals or more in the game.

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Hart prepared to take the knocks

joe-hartEngland goalkeeper Joe Hart has admitted that his form for Manchester City this season has not been brilliant.


Hart has been criticised for several key errors as Roberto Mancini's team have struggled at times in their attempt to retain the Premier League title they secured in such dramatic fashion ten months ago.

The former Shrewsbury Town shot-stopper accepts that he has not hit the heights he achieved last term, saying: "My season has not been brilliant. It's had its good times but it's football. It's what I love doing.

"Sometimes you take knocks, you take opinions, but you've got to be strong."

Meanwhile, Hart has welcomed Ben Foster's decision to return to the England set-up after opting out of international football for the last two-and-a-half-years.

The West Brom goalkeeper is in Roy Hodgson's squad for the World Cup qualifiers against San Marino and Montenegro.

Wayne Rooney is 1.90 to score two or more goals against San Marino while England are 21.00 to win the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, and the hosts can be backed at 4.20 to triumph.

Hart said of Foster: "It's great to see Ben. He is a consistent performer, someone I get on well with.

"It's good to have keepers like that around. There are three top quality keepers here plus Jack Butland and John Ruddy, and everywhere you look there is good talent."

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O'Neill rues Cattermole's absence

martin-oneillSunderland boss Martin O'Neill fears that Lee Cattermole will not be able to play any part in the Black Cats' bid to avoid relegation this season.


The former Wigan Athletic and Middlesbrough midfielder has struggled with injuries to both knees this season and has been able to feature in just ten Premier League games as a result.

With eight matches of the season left, Sunderland are just four points above the drop-zone and are currently 4.00 to be relegated from the Premier League while Southampton are 8.50 to go down, Wigan 2.00 and Norwich City 21.00.

O'Neill admits his side has missed captain Cattermole's influence, saying: "We hope for the best but, to me, if he comes back this season, then that would be a bonus - and an unexpected bonus.

"We may have to cope without him and, even if he does successfully come back from the injury, he will still be nowhere near match fit.

"We have had to do without him pretty much all season. He has definitely been a loss to us, no question about that. We have missed that drive, the things that he would give us, but we have had to make do without it."

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Richards eyes up derby return

micah-richardsMicah Richards is eyeing next month's Manchester derby clash at Old Trafford for his long-awaited comeback.


The Manchester City defender has been on the sidelines since the end of October after he picked up a knee meniscus tear against Swansea City.

The 24-year-old was expected back after Christmas by boss Roberto Mancini - just as City's title own defence began to flat-line.

But Richards is hoping he can still have something to smile about this season when the Blues squad returns from the international break.

City will go to rivals United on 8th April and although the title now seems destined for the red side of Manchester, they would dearly love a repeat of last season's amazing 6-1 victory.

Richards says: "In the last 10 days I have been training outside again, doing two days of running and then a recovery day after that.

"I think the Newcastle game next week will come too soon for me. Realistically, I'm looking more to the away game at United and then maybe the FA Cup semi-final.

"I will be trying my best to get back into the squad and getting a feel for everything again."

City's last remaining hope of silverware this season is the FA Cup, with Mancini's men 2.37 to lift the trophy, while potential semi-final opponents Manchester United and Chelsea are 4.00 and 4.50 respectively.

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miercuri, 20 martie 2013

Milner confident of double delight

james-milnerJames Milner says the England players are confident they can beat San Marino and Montenegro to take control of their 2014 World Cup qualification group.


The Three Lions go into the double header two points behind group leaders Montenegro with four games played and are priced at 1.36 to win Group H.

Roy Hodgson's men are full of confidence as their bid to reach the 2014 World Cup gets back underway having beaten Brazil last time out in a friendly.

However, there preparations haven't been help by a series of injuries to the squad's centre-halfs, with Rio Ferdinand, Phil Jagielka and Michael Dawson out of both matches.

Gary Cahill will also miss the game with San Marino on Friday, but has an outside chance of returning in time to take on Montenegro.

While Friday's game with group minnows San Marino should be a stroll in the park for England, the trip to Podgorica the following week will be a tough examination of how far the squad has come under Hodgson.

Milner is backing England to pick up maximum points from both games and says he can see a marked improvement in how the team is performing in training.

"These are two big games for us - we're moving forward all the time and that's a positive. You'll see improvements in the team," he told Sky Sports News.

"Both games will be great, the sort you want to play in and they're tough games. It's important we keep doing the right things."

Milner went on to say he wasn't worried about losing players to injury and claims England have the strength in depth to cope with the withdrawals.

"We still have a strong squad, the players coming in are decent so I have no worries at all," he added.

"Hopefully we can score an early goal against San Marino and then get a few more. All we can do is beat them and take it into Tuesday."

England are 1.01 to beat San Marino on Friday night, with the hosts 81.00 to cause a major upset.

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Taylor in for injured Cahill

steven-taylorNewcastle defender Steven Taylor has been called up to the England squad for the World Cup qualifier with San Marino after Gary Cahill was ruled out.


Chelsea centre-half Cahill picked up a knee injury during the Blues 2-0 win over West Ham on Sunday and following an exam by England's medical staff has been deemed unfit for Friday's game with group minnows San Marino.

The 27-year-old could return in time for Tuesday's game with Montenegro if he can prove his fitness before the trip to Podgorica.

England coach Roy Hodgson will be desperate for Cahill to prove his fitness in time for the crunch game with Montenegro having lost three of the four centre-halfs he originally picked.

Michael Dawson, Rio Ferdinand and Phil Jagielka have all been forced to withdraw from the qualifying double header because of injury, with Steven Caulker, Joleon Lescott, Chris Smalling and now Taylor Hodgson’s options at centre-half.

Newcastle star Taylor has been called up as cover for Cahill for the game in San Marino, which England are 1.01 to win, with the hosts 81.00 to cause a major upset.

Taylor has been one of the Toon's best performers this season and the 27-year-old his good form has been recognised with a call-up to the Three Lions squad.

Taylor said: "I am so happy to have received a call-up to the full squad. It's every player's ambition to represent their country.



"If I am lucky enough to be given that chance over the next seven days, it will be one of the proudest moments of my playing career."

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England are 1.10 to qualify for the 2014 World Cup, despite going into the next round of matches two points behind group leaders Montnegegro.






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