Paper Round: New twist in Mats Hummels saga

Paper Round: New twist in Mats Hummels saga

With four Premier League teams interested in Mats Hummels, the defender has been forced to speak about his future, plus the rest of the day's news.

Hummels blow for Premier League teams: Borussia Dortmund defender Mats Hummels has reiterated his desire to stay at Signal Iduna Park, seemingly putting to bed any chances of him joining a Premier League team, according to the Daily Star. The 26-year-old has been linked with a move to Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool and Chelsea in recent months, but the centre-half has dealt the Premier League managers a blow by insisting that he is happy playing for a struggling Dortmund. "Fundamentally, I don't need to play in the Champions League to be happy. Maybe we indeed lose players should we not qualify for Champions League, but what I can already tell you is that should we not lose 15 players at once, we'll still have a super team next season,” Hummels said.

 Paper round’s view: In what has been one of the more tiresome transfer sagas in recent years, Paper Round will breathe a sigh of relief when this is finally put to bed – one way or the other. Despite Dortmund languishing in the Bundesliga’s bottom three, Hummels refuses to give anything away regarding his future despite intense speculation linking him with a move away from the Westfalonstadion. The World Cup winner’s presence in the Premier League would be a huge treat, but his reluctance to leave Dortmund may see fans of English football left disappointed. 

 United slap £50m price tag on De Gea: Manchester United have placed a world-record £50 million valuation on goalkeeper David De Gea in a big to fend off Real Madrid’s growing interest, according to the Express. As well as fending off the interest of the Spanish giants, United manager Louis van Gaal is also keen on tying down De Gea to an extended contract at Old Trafford and will reportedly offer the stopper a £200,000-per-week, five-year deal worth around £52m. The Express claim that, whilst De Gea is United’s top priority, the keeper is likely to wait until the summer to decide on his long-term future. 

Paper round’s view: Madrid-born De Gea claims that he is happy at Old Trafford amid a reports linking him with a move to the Spanish capital. Real Madrid’s current No. 1, Iker Casillas, is coming to the end of his career and it is expected that De Gea will replace his compatriot in between the sticks at the Santiago Bernabeu – whenever that may be. If De Gea rejects a deal that will surely be put to him in the summer, United will need to cash in on the 24-year-old, whose contract expires in 2016. 

 Leverkusen to offer Soldado Spurs escape: Tottenham Hotspur flop Roberto Soldado looks set to be offered a way out of his White Hart Lane nightmare with Bayer Leverkusen reportedly interested in securing his signature, according to the Mirror. The Spaniard has struggled in north London since his move in the summer of 2013. “The Germans have lined up the misfiring Spaniard - a huge flop since his £26million move from Valencia 18 months ago - as a replacement for their own forward, Josip Drmic, who wants to leave,” the report says. Paper round’s view: Soldado has really struggled to replicate anything like the form he displayed during his time with Valencia, and seems to be suffering a crisis of form and confidence for Mauricio Pochettino’s side. The 29-year-old has netted just 15 goals for Spurs during his tie at White Hart Lane – and just four this season. Soldado’s last goal came seven games ago and after two successive horror performances, which included a quite unbelievable miss from point-blank range against Burnley, the Spaniard may look for a move to reignite his career.

  United want Pique return after Savic snub: Manchester United are set to step up their interest in Barcelona’s Gerard Pique after failing to sign Fiorentina’s Stefan Savic, report the Express. Louis van Gaal’s United – along with Tottenham – were linked with a move for former Man City defender Savic over the summer and were reportedly set to renew their interest before the winter transfer window closes. But, according to the Express, the Montenegro international has quashed any possibility of him leaving the Serie A side by signing a new deal. And now, United boss Van Gaal is preparing a £15m bid to bring Pique back to United. Paper round’s view: After a nightmare first stint in England in which he flopped at the Etihad Stadium, Savic may be right to turn down the chance of an England return and stay in Italy where he has quickly become a hit with the Fiorentina faithful. Gerard Pique, however, has worked his way back into the Barcelona starting XI after an early-season exile. The Spaniard’s long-term future at the Camp Nou is uncertain so the defender could be interested in a move back to the Premier League and to play for a manager whom he’s dealt with on two separate occasions in the past.

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Manchester United v Southampton preview: Eljero Elia set to make Saints debut

Manchester United v Southampton preview: Eljero Elia set to make Saints debut

Team news, manager quotes, tweets, videos, fantasy pick and match odds for the Premier League match between Manchester United and Southampton at Old Trafford.

TEAM NEWS Ashley Young is the only player unavailable. The wide man will be out for four to six weeks with a hamstring injury he suffered on New Year's Day at Stoke. New goalkeeper Victor Valdes is expected to be in the United squad while Rafael (cheekbone), Luke Shaw (ankle), Marcos Rojo (thigh), Daley Blind (knee), Marouane Fellaini (illness) and Antonio Valencia (groin) have overcome their respective problems. Nathaniel Clyne and Jack Cork could return for Southampton's trip to Manchester United, where new signing Eljero Elia is in line for his debut. Right-back Clyne this week returned to training after an ankle injury and will be assessed before the match, while midfielder Cork is available after an ankle complaint of his own. Elia is in the squad for the first time since joining on loan from Werder Bremen, although Jay Rodriguez (cruciate ligament) and Sam Gallagher (knee) remain absent. Japan defender Maya Yoshida has left for international duty at the AFC Asia Cup and Sadio Mane has a calf complaint, keeping him out of this match and with Saints for the time being despite being included in Senegal's African Nations Cup squad.

MANAGER QUOTES Louis van Gaal: "I am very happy. We only have one player injured. That's the first time that has happened in my career at Manchester United." Ronald Koeman: "If teams like Barcelona lose games there is always a lot of critics, rumours, speculations. And I know that, because my whole life I am linked to Barcelona. But it is not a time to talk about that. It is not respectful to the people of Southampton or Barcelona. I am very happy to be here. I started a contract in Southampton, and I like to respect my contract and the people." MATCH BUZZ

MATCH FACTS Robin van Persie has scored seven goals in seven Premier League appearances against Southampton. Southampton have dropped fewer points than any other team from winning positions in the Barclays Premier League (2). The Red Devils are unbeaten in their last 10 Premier League matches (W7 D3 L0) Sadio Mane has scored in each of his last three Premier League appearances but is now injured. Manchester United have kept only four clean sheets in their last 12 Premier League games but no team has scored against them more than once in that run. James Ward-Prowse has assisted three goals in his last three league appearances. Louis van Gaal’s side have won eight and lost none of their last nine Premier League games at Old Trafford. Manchester United scored two goals from just three shots (two on target) when they beat Saints at St Mary’s at the start of December. United have won six and lost none of their last eight Premier League matches against Southampton Man Utd have won 16 and drawn three of their last 19 home league games since Saints last won at Old Trafford (2-0) in January 1988. FANTASY PICK Wayne Rooney: Named England's player of the year by fans this week. Also a favourite among United supporters as he might show here. 

MATCH ODDS Man Utd evens, Southampton 7-2, Draw 13-5

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Weekend team news: Sergio Aguero and Mesut Ozil set to return

Weekend team news: Sergio Aguero and Mesut Ozil set to return

Sergio Aguero is set to return for Manchester City at Everton while Arsenal could welcome back Mesut Ozil to face Stoke.

Saturday (All times 3pm unless stated)

 Sunderland v Liverpool (12:45) Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers will not have any of his injured players back in time. Sunderland boss Gus Poyet has an almost fully fit squad to choose from.

 Burnley v QPR Burnley captain Jason Shackell could be back in contention after a calf injury. On-loan West Ham striker Mauro Zarate is expected to make his QPR debut. 

Chelsea v Newcastle John Terry, Eden Hazard and Cesc Fabregas are expected to return. Newcastle goalkeeper Tim Krul is set to return for the trip to Chelsea.

 Everton v Manchester City Everton defenders Antolin Alcaraz and Leighton Baines return from suspension and injury respectively. Manchester City have been boosted by the return from injury of Sergio Aguero, Edin Dzeko and Vincent Kompany. 

Leicester v Aston Villa Leicester manager Nigel Pearson is without a number of key players ahead of his clash. Aston Villa skipper Ron Vlaar has been ruled out for up to six weeks with a knee injury. 

Swansea City v West Ham United Swansea skipper Ashley Williams will make his 300th appearance for the club as manager Garry Monk brings back the senior guard. West Ham duo Diafra Sakho and Cheikhou Kouyate are ruled out. 

West Bromwich City v Hull City West Brom head coach Tony Pulis almost has a fully fit squad. Hull striker Sone Aluko is set to miss the trip to West Brom with a calf injury. 

Crystal Palace v Spurs (5:30pm) Crystal Palace manager Alan Pardew will be without Yannick Bolasie and Mile Jedinak. Tottenham will still be without both Ryan Mason and Erik Lamela.


Sunday Arsenal v Stoke City (1:30pm) Arsene Wenger has welcomed a trio of players back. Stoke boss Mark Hughes has a trio of players on the brink of a return from injury. Manchester United v Southampton (4pm) Ashley Young is the only player unavailable. Nathaniel Clyne and Jack Cork could return for Southampton.

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Manchester City 'close in on £30m Wilfried Bony deal'

Manchester City 'close in on £30m Wilfried Bony deal'

Manchester City are reportedly closing in on a deal worth in the region of £30 million for Swansea City striker Wilfried Bony.
The Ivory Coast international, who will represent his country at the upcoming African Cup of Nations, was expected to be one of the first players targeted following the opening of the transfer window. And City have made their move, according to multiple reports, holding discussions with Swansea regarding a deal for the 26-year-old. The BBC says the two clubs are in “advanced talks” and that a figure in excess of £30m will be required to sign Bony, who joined Swansea for £12m in the summer of 2013.

Sky Sports put the transfer fee at £30m while reporting “the two sides are not far apart on their valuation of the 26-year-old.” A deal will not be formalised before Bony returns from Equatorial Guinea but it seems increasingly likely he will join an already deadly City attack for the second half of the season.

WHAT MANUEL PELLEGRINI SAID Speaking during a press conference on New Year's Eve: "I think that is just one of the 20 or 30 names I have read from the beginning of the season until today that we are (supposedly) interested in. I don't think we are going to be too busy in this window. We have restrictions about the amount of money and about the number of players we can put in the Champions League, so I don't think it will be a special transfer window for our team."

OUR VIEW You can’t argue with the fact Bony was the highest scorer of the calendar year and he has impressed on a weekly basis for a weaker team. He guarantees goals; the only question is whether he is ready to join a rotation system as both Sergio Aguero and Edin Dzeko are key players for City as well. £30m feels like rather a lot but his record is extremely good and at 26 he has plenty left in the tank.

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Paper Round: Manchester City on Lionel Messi alert

Manchester City are the latest club to be linked with Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi, Liverpool are set to lose out on Xherdan Shaqiri and the rest of the transfer gossip from today’s papers.
City on Messi alert: Manchester City are the latest club to be linked with an audacious move for Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi. Rumours linking Messi with Chelsea began circulating on Monday night after the Argentina forward started following the West London club having failed to turn up for training. And now the Manchester Evening News reports that “City could step up their ambitious attempt to sign Lionel Messi after Barcelona sacked technical director Andoni Zubizarreta.” 


Paper Round’s view: Although this seems completely crazy, it perhaps isn’t so far-fetched as the rumours linking Cristiano Ronaldo with a return to Manchester United. Barca recently sacked technical director Antonio Zubizarreta, Carlos Puyol resigned as a consequence and Luis Enrique did bench Messi against Real Sociedad. It hints at turmoil within the club. But Messi follows both Chelsea and Man City on Instagram and Barca really can’t afford to lose their star player with their transfer suspension. 

 Bony targets Champions League: Although a move for Lionel Messi is somewhat of a long shot to say the least, The Daily Telegraph reports that Manchester City could well be the next destination for Swansea’s in-demand striker Wilfried Bony. The paper’s Matt Law reports that City “have made inquiries about how much it would cost to sign Bony this month as they assess their striker options. Real Madrid have also expressed a tentative interest in Bony and the Ivory Coast international is aware that he is in demand.” 

Paper Round’s view: Although City’s current injury troubles up front are well documented, this one seems unlikely. Bony recently signed a contract extension before Christmas which means that City would have to fork out in excess of £30 million. Bony is soon to leave for African Nations Cup duty but the fact that Swansea signed Portuguese striker Nelson Oliveira on loan from Benfica means they may accept a silly bid for the striker.

Liverpool to lose out on Shaqiri: Having been rocked by the recent news that captain and talisman Steven Gerrard will leave the club for a likely move to the MLS at the end of the season, Liverpool are also set to miss out on Bayern Munich winger Xherdan Shaqiri. That’s the latest news coming out of Talksport, who report that Inter Milan have won the battle for his signature. “Shaqiri will join Inter on loan during the January transfer window with a view to making the move permanent at the end of the season for a fee in the region of £12m,” says Talksport via Sportitalia.

 Paper Round’s view: Although Shaqiri has failed to command a regular spot at Bayern, it’s hardly a huge surprise given the strength in depth of the Bundesliga giants. But Inter are likely to give Shaqiri the chance of a regular starting spot to fight for domestic and European titles, which is something that a Liverpool side on the wane can’t guarantee. 

Saints face competition from United for Indi: Southampton boss Ronald Koeman is to step up his pursuit of Porto defender Bruno Martins Indi, according to the Daily Mail. Koeman was interested in signing Indi in the summer but he may face stiff competition from Manchester United as the paper revealed that “the 22-year-old admitted he continues to think about working with Van Gaal - the former Holland boss.” Indi is quoted as saying, 'Spiritually I still have contact with Van Gaal,' he said. 'I think about him and I think he also thinks about me.'

 Paper Round’s view: It sounds as if a move to Manchester United would certainly be the defender’s preferred choice, given what he has said. That, allied to United’s need for a versatile defender given their current predicament makes Old Trafford the more likely destination.

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Arsenal ease into fourth round at Hull’s expense

FA Cup third round, Emirates Stadium – Arsenal 2 (Mertesacker 20 Sanchez 82) Hull City 0
Arsenal eased into the fourth round of the FA Cup with a convincing 2-0 victory over Hull City in a repeat of the 2014 final. Per Mertesacker headed the defending champions in front in a one-sided opening period which saw the hosts waste a host of opportunities. An improved Hull dictated play for long spells after the restart, but were unable to create a clear-cut opening as stand-in stopper David Ospina enjoyed a comfortable outing in the Arsenal goal. And the Gunners wrapped up victory in the 82nd minute through Alexis Sanchez, who swivelled expertly on the edge of the penalty area before firing home a fine effort. The result ensured Arsenal’s place in the fourth round draw for the 19th successive season and left Hull contemplating how to secure Premier League survival. 

KEY MOMENTS PRE-MATCH: Walcott starts. Theo Walcott makes his first Arsenal start in exactly a year. 

4’ – CHANCE! Sanchez with a lovely through-ball for Campbell and the forward sees his low effort kept out by Harper. Clever one-two between the Arsenal men. 

15’ – OPENING FOR HULL! Former Inter Milan target Tom Ince weaves off the right touchline and fires a low shot into the side-netting. 

20’ – GOAL! Arsenal 1-0 Hull. Mertesacker fixes his gaze on the ball, wanders to the edge of the six-yard box, and rises above everyone to head home the opener. Simple as you like. 

22’ – CHANCE! Rosicky squirms through the Hull defence before slipping a cute pass into the path of Sanchez. The Chilean does well to round Steve Harper, but is surprised to see McShane - yep, him again - slide across the turf to magnificently clear his goalbound shot away.

23’ – ALMOST AN OWN GOAL! The resulting corner hits a Hull player, rebounds off Harper and hits the post. Huge let-off for the visitors. 

66’ – WHAT A TACKLE! Maguire dives in to make a stunning challenge to prevent Sanchez scoring from close range. 

67’ - HUGE CHANCE! Walcott inexplicably lifts the ball wide of goal after being played through on goal. Has to score. 

74’ – CLOSE! Sanchez weaves across the penalty area, but inadvertently prods the ball with his standing leg as he's about to pull the trigger. Harper rushes off his line to save.

 82’ – GOAL! Arsenal 2-0 Hull. Sanchez swivels with ease on the edge of the Hull box, and guides a fine shot into the bottom corner. Game over. KEY STATS Alexis Sanchez has now scored 16 goals in all competitions this season. Only Sergio Aguero (19) and Harry Kane (17) have more Per Mertesacker's last two goals for Arsenal have come in the FA Cup

TALKING POINT Is the FA Cup enough to appease Arsenal fans? The Emirates faithful were rightly relieved when their side ended a nine-year trophy drought by clinching the FA Cup in 2014, but surely they won’t be as accepting this time around. While the Premier League title is probably out of reach already, a favourable Champions League draw against Monaco suggests Arsenal should probably be focusing on European honours instead. 

MAN OF THE MATCH Santi Cazorla (Arsenal): Alexis Sanchez will take the plaudits for another tireless display, but it was the Spaniard’s probing play that repeatedly opened up the Hull defence. 

PLAYER RATINGS
 Arsenal: Ospina 7, Bellerin 6, Chambers 6, Mertesacker 7, Monreal 6, Coquelin 6, Rosicky 7, Cazorla 8, Walcott 6, Campbell 5, Sanchez 7. 
Subs: Oxlade-Chamberlain 7, Akpom N/A, Maitland-Niles N/A.

 Hull City: Harper 7, Figueroa 6, Maguire 7, Davies 5, McShane 7, Ince 6, Huddlestone 4, Quinn 7, Brady 6, Aluko 5, Sagbo 5. Subs: Elmohamady 6, Hernandez 5.

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Paper Round: Manchester City to spend big

The Sunday papers agree that Manchester City are set for a January splurge, but can't agree on who the champions want to buy.
CITY CLOSE ON BONY SWOOP: Manchester City are eyeing Swansea City's Wilfried Bony as the answer to their problems up front, the Sunday Mirror. Injuries to Sergio Aguero, Edin Dzeko and Stevan Jovetic have left Manuel Pellegrini short of options, leading to James Milner playing as a 'false nine'. Bony is seen as the ideal solution with City making an assault on the top of the table, but would cost a hefty £25m - puzzlingly, the Mirror claims that is £4m MORE than his release clause, but does not explain why City would voluntarily pay more than they have to. OUR VIEW: We know City have unlimited resources, and the arrival of Bony could indeed give them a boost ahead of the second half of the season. But three letters loom over this story - FFP. Financial Fair Play considerations mean City are unlikely to spend £25 million on a stop-gap forward. Only if they intended to offload Dzeko or Jovetic at the end of the season would this make any sense. And wouldn't it just be simpler to bring John Guidetti back from his loan at Celtic?

 ER, NO, THEY WANT BENTEKE INSTEAD: The Sun on Sunday claims City's main target is Aston Villa's Christian Benteke, not Bony. The reasoning is that Bony goes on Africa Cup of Nations duty with Ivory Coast this month, so will not be available when he is most needed - during Sergio Aguero's absence through injury. The Sun also points out that City will have to let a foreign player go if a striker arrives, as they are at their limit of 17 non-homegrown players. OUR VIEW: The Africa Cup of Nations issue does make Bony less attractive, but as explained above, FFP means this deal has to be about more than just the next six weeks. It depends what type of player Pellegrini wants - Bony appears a logical upgrade from Jovetic, who has struggled to settle in England; Benteke would be a natural replacement for Dzeko. We'd probably plump for Bony. As far as a player to drop out of the squad goes, the obvious candidate is defender Matija Nastasic, who has not featured since the Community Shield in August and is believed to be in talks over a loan to Schalke. 

ACTUALLY, THEY WANT ROSS BARKLEY: Enter the Mail on Sunday, which reckons City will sign Ross Barkley from Everton for a fee in excess of £45m. Everton boss Roberto Martinez is under increasing pressure, and the sale of Barkley would fund a winter spending spree to help reignite the Toffees' faltering campaign. Barkley would offer City drive and dynamism in a central attacking midfield role, where they have become increasingly reliant on Frank Lampard. OUR VIEW: This comes courtesy of Rob Shepherd's Football Grapvine column - the man has contacts, but he can also be miles off-beam. On the face of it, £45m-plus for Barkley seems like a huge figure, but one City would gladly pay if they feel they are getting the next Lampard or Steven Gerrard. Everton would be loath to see Barkley go, but that sort of windfall would allow the club to address holes in the squad. As Southampton have shown, selling talented English players for a premium price can be turned into a positive if the money is spent wisely. Problem is, Everton are unlikely to find many bargains in the January window, and would be better served leaving the overhaul until summer. 

CABAYE TO RETURN TO NEWCASTLE: And interesting story in the Sunday Mirror suggests that Yohan Cabaye could be back at Newcastle just a year after leaving for Paris Saint-Germain. Cabaye has struggled to assert himself in the PSG side, and with the French champions desperate land Moussa Sissoko, they could offer the former Newcastle favourite in part-exchange. Sissoko is valued at £20m by Newcastle - the same price PSG paid for Cabaye last January. OUR VIEW: This would be classic Mike Ashley if it happened. Newcastle bought Cabaye for £4m and sold him for £20m. Now they could get him back, with a transfer fee, in exchange for Sissoko - a player they paid just £2m for. For those scoring at home, that would mean converting £6m into Yohan Cabaye, plus £20m, plus whatever cash they get in the Cabaye/Sissoko part exchange. You don't have to like Ashley, but it's those sort of dealings that have made him his billions.

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Steven Gerrard 'close to deal with LA Galaxy'

Liverpool midfielder Steven Gerrard is close to signing an 18-month contract with Major League Soccer's Los Angeles Galaxy, a report has claimed.
Earlier, captain Gerrard told Liverpool's TV channel that he would be moving to MLS at the end of the season but had yet to finalise a deal with a team. ESPN's website cited a source who declined to be identified as saying that the club he had chosen was David Beckham's former team the Galaxy and that the deal was worth $6 million a year. The site also said the transfer needed the approval of the board of governors at MLS because the league would contribute $750,000 to the package. MLS has a 'single entity' structure and it has often helped to bring in big-name players in the past. A spokesman for MLS told Reuters "unfortunately MLS is not able to provide additional insight into a potential player agreement". U.S. teams are allowed three 'designated players' whose wages are paid mostly outside of the salary cap and the Galaxy have a free slot following the retirement of American forward Landon Donovan. Should former England captain Gerrard, 34, complete his move to Los Angeles he would join up again with Ireland striker Robbie Keane, one of the club's 'designated players' who spent a brief spell as a team mate at Liverpool.

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Man Utd put three past Liverpool to heap pressure on Brendan Rodgers

Premier League, Old Trafford - Manchester United 3 (Rooney 12, Mata 40, Van Persie 71) Liverpool 0
Manchester United won their sixth Premier League game in a row against their great rivals Liverpool at home with a 3-0 victory that relied on brilliance at both ends of the pitch. The visitors set up to pin their hosts back into their own half with a fluid front three of Raheem Sterling, Adam Lallana and Philippe Coutinho, who threatened David De Gea’s area on a number of occasions with their passing, pace and movement. Yet the third part of this trio failed in his duties to man mark Wayne Rooney just 12 minutes into the game, as the Brazilian playmaker let the United captain lay the ball off to Antonio Valencia down the right before arriving in the box to slot home the opener. Juan Mata then doubled the lead before half-time with a near-post header that should have been ruled out as offside. The Spaniard was on when Ashley Young played in the cross that lead to the chance, but a crucial knockdown by Robin van Persie came as he was ahead of the defensive line. Throughout the game, United looked more interested in attacking their opponents directly rather than control possession and the game, but the quality of their finishing allowed this high-risk game plan to work for Louis van Gaal’s team. Van Persie made it 3-0 on the 70 minute mark as Mata picked him out with a smart pass after Rooney’s shot was parried. De Gea then stepped up again to deny half-time substitute Mario Balotelli on three occasions late on to ensure that he kept his clean sheet intact and United held onto their win. The victory keeps United in third with Liverpool now 10 points behind their fierce North West rivals. While Van Gaal may have answered some of his critics with his bold decisions against the Reds, the pressure will now be on Brendan Rodgers to justify his team’s fall from grace after spending big in the summer as last season’s runners up. Having seen off David Moyes’ Manchester United twice in the league last year, his side’s defeat to their old enemy at Old Trafford has all but confirmed their regression to also-rans. 

KEY MOMENTS 

7' – PRESSING: Brendan Rodgers' desire for his team to press high and be aggressive appears to be working so far. United are struggling to play the ball out of their own half. They look penned in by the visitors. 

12' – CHANCE: United are opened up as Raheem Sterling runs through the left-hand channel to take a shot on goal. The Englishman fires it at De Gea who is able to palm it away. It's a nervy start for United who are trying to play out of the back while Liverpool’s attackers looming over them, denying them time and space. Something has to change soon if they're going to be able to snatch the momentum in this game. 

13' – GOAL! Antonio Valencia has showed plenty of skill on the ball down the right so far and now he's set up Wayne Rooney for the opener. The Ecuadorian throws a feint and bursts past Hector Moreno and Joe Allen to send in a sweet ball for his captain to fire a shot down the mouth of Brad Jones who can’t stop it. Rooney burst up through the middle from the centre circle to get into the box and score and after initially starting the move with his pass out wide to Valencia. 

23' – CHANCE! Sterling has another chance at the near post on the left against De Gea. His movement is playing havoc with Jones' side of the defence especially in the box. He loses his marker and drops into the channel but the Spanish keeper stands tall and bats another shot away.

 40' – GOAL! Juan Mata scores a header at the far post from an Ashley Young cross, which is knocked down by Robin van Persie. The Spaniard's run came from deep as the cross was played in but at the moment the Dutchman headed it down for him, he was well offside. The goal should not have stood.

 42' – GOAL! Sterling almost conjures up an instant reply with a header of his own. The forward leaps well, rising above his better built markers, but De Gea catches his attempt with ease. He may not have found the net or much luck so far in front of goal but Sterling has impressed leading the line in the first half for Liverpool. 

70'– GOAL! James Wilson is replaced by Ander Herrera and Wayne Rooney moves up into a centre-forward role, sprinting free through into space on the left. He attempts a shot but the ball is parried to Juan Mata just outside the area. The Spaniard sees Van Persie to his right and juges his angle of attack to be better suited for a shot, and plays him in. The Dutchman does not let him down and sends shoots the ball in from the right-hand side. 

84’ – SAVES! Three saves in as many minutes from David De Gea as Mario Balotelli has a trio of attempts on goal, having finally come alive after arriving on the field at half-time in place of Adam Lallana. He can’t beat the Spaniard however who snatches up all three of his shots. 

85’ – CHANCE! Van Persie almost makes it 4-0 with a shot from range that rattles the cross bar. Old Trafford groans. It was a wonderful shot but it just didn't dip enough to turn the score line into a rout. 

KEY STATS David De Gea made eight saves throughout the game to deny Raheem Sterling’s best efforts in the first half and the late-game attempts of Mario Balotelli to pull a strike or three back, compared to Brad Jones’ tally of three. United didn’t seem interested in sitting back in possession and played a risky game throughout which would have been utterly undermined regardless of their finishing had their Spaniard shot-stopper failed to keep the visitors at bay. 

TALKING POINT Are Manchester United now in the title race? Louis van Gaal’s team are still some way away from running Manchester City and Chelsea close at the top of the table but their victory against Liverpool certainly makes them the leaders of the chasing pack in third. However, given the curve of progress that United are following at present both in terms of results and performances, a continued improvement over Christmas and in the New Year could propel them into the mix for the Premier League title itself. Before that can happen though there is much work to be done to get injured players fit again and fix the team’s defensive balance so that a bad day at the office for De Gea in the future doesn’t automatically lead to defeat.

 MAN OF THE MATCH David De Gea (Manchester United): Wayne Roony may have been the box-to-box driving force that knit Van Gaal’s high-risk game plan into a decisive assault on the Liverpool box, but at the other end of the field, David De Gea reigned supreme. The Spaniard was the arch nemesis of Raheem Sterling in the first half, who couldn’t even beat the keeper by trying to dribble around him one-on-one while in the second he saved three shots on target by Mario Balotelli in as many minutes. As referenced above, De Gea made a total of eight saves to keep his clean sheet unmarked and ensure that United’s efficiency up front wasn’t cancelled out by their frailties at the back. 

PLAYER RATINGS 
Manchester United: De Gea 10; Jones 7, Carrick 8, Evans 6; Valencia 9, Fellaini 7, Mata 7, Rooney 9, Young 6; van Persie 7, Wilson 6. Subs: Herrera 6, Falcao 6, McNair 6. 
Liverpool: Jones 6; Skrtel 6, Lovren 5, Johnson 5; Moreno 6, Henderson 7, Allen 6, Gerrard 5; Coutinho 6, Lallana 7, Sterling 8. Subs: Toure 5, Balotelli 5, Markovic 6.

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Paper Round: Liverpool's incredible swoop to re-sign Fernando Torres

Are Liverpool really that desperate for a spark up front that they'd consider trying to re-live Chelsea flop Fernando Torres' glory days at Anfield? That and the rest of today's gossip from the newspapers.

Fernando Torres back at Anfield? The most interesting report from today’s papers suggests Spanish striker Fernando Torres could end up back at Liverpool. Torres’ stock has plummeted at Chelsea and loan side Milan no longer want him at the club. The Daily Star claim Brendan Rodgers could try to recruit the 30-year-old in January. 





Paper Round’s view: Now this would be the story of the window, if it happened. Would lightning strike twice at Liverpool for Torres? Unfortunately, the Star aren’t exactly the most reliable of sources but with Torres now linked with returns to both of his successful former stints, Liverpool and Atletico Madrid, perhaps that is the only way to get the best back out of the misfit forward.

Mancini to swoop for former defender: The Daily Mirror believe Manchester City centre-back Matija Nastasic could be reunited with Roberto Mancini at Inter Milan. Mancini brought the Serbian to the Etihad Stadium and has now returned to Inter for a second stint in charge.

 Paper Round’s view: Nastasic hasn’t made an impact in England just yet but at just 21 has plenty of time. Perhaps a reunion with the manager who first saw his potential to shine at a top level is what will help him step up to the next level.

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Weekend team news: Angel di Maria out, Mario Balotelli could return

All the team news ahead of Saturday and Sunday's Premier League matches.
Saturday (All times 3pm unless stated) Burnley v Southampton Burnley centre-back Michael Duff looks set to miss a fourth game with his calf problem and Sam Vokes is still not ready to be considered despite impressing for the development squad in midweek. Southampton expect to have midfielder Toby Alderweireld back, while James Ward-Prowse is also set to be in the squad after resuming full training following two months out. Chelsea v Hull City Petr Cech will start in goal for Chelsea. Matic returns from suspension, swapping places with Cesc Fabregas who serves a one-match ban. Hull captain Curtis Davies could be handed a recall, but loanee Hatem Ben Arfa is set to continue his exile from the squad. Crystal Palace v Stoke City Crystal Palace defender Damien Delaney could return, while midfielder Jason Puncheon will be assessed after missing training on Thursday through illness. Stoke forward Jonathan Walters is expected to shake off a knee problem and play, but the visitors are likely to be without defender Marc Muniesa.



Leicester City v Manchester City Kasper Schmeichel has been ruled out for at least six weeks for Leicester after breaking a metatarsal in training so Ben Hamer will deputise in goal. Manchester City will be without injured striker Sergio Aguero, who will be out until next year, but Vincent Kompany and David Silva should feature. Sunderland v West Ham United Steven Fletcher could return to the Sunderland starting line-up. Mark Noble is West Ham boss Sam Allardyce's only injury concern. West Bromwich Albion v Aston Villa Captain Chris Brunt will again miss out for West Brom, but Claudio Yacob is available following a ban. Aston Villa pair Ron Vlaar and Fabian Delph, out since November and October respectively, could be in contention to return to action.

Arsenal v Newcastle United (17:30 UK time) Arsenal will be without midfielder Aaron Ramsey due to a hamstring problem. Defenders Laurent Koscielny (calf), Nacho Monreal (ankle) and Calum Chambers (suspended) are all unavailable, so right-back Mathieu Debuchy could be asked to move over to centre-half. Newcastle captain Fabricio Coloccini is set to be passed fit. Daryl Janmaat is also available after shrugging off a minor problem. Sunday Manchester United v Liverpool (13:30 UK time) Angel di Maria will miss Manchester United's crunch match against Liverpool, but Rafael and Phil Jones are both back from their long-term groin and shin injuries. Liverpool striker Mario Balotelli could return to the squad, while Adam Lallana should feature despite breaking two ribs just over a week ago.

Swansea v Tottenham (16:00 UK time) Swansea goalkeeper Gerhard Tremmel will make his first Premier League start since May and defender Neil Taylor returns after missing out at West Ham because of suspension. Emmanuel Adebayor will again be absent for Tottenham after returning to Togo for personal reasons. Kyle Walker could make his Premier League comeback.

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Paper Round: Manchester City win 'would be huge boost for United'

It sounds crazy, but it's true: should City beat Roma on Wednesday night, they will inadvertently be doing their arch-rivals a huge favour - and his name is Kevin Strootman.

Man Utd target Strootman January swoop:

 Longtime Manchester United target Kevin Strootman could finally be on his way to Old Trafford next month when the transfer reopens, claim the Daily Telegraph - IF the midfielder's current club Roma fail to join Bayern Munich in the Champions League last-16 tonight. 

Paper Round's view:

 Well, Strootman has been on the United radar since even before they brought in his former Netherlands coach Louis van Gaal, so it's not surprising the link has resurfaced in time for the January window. What is delicious about this latest report, however, is that Roma failing to reach the knockout stage would happen at the direct hands of United's local and title rivals Manchester City. So, in potentially beating Roma to that last slot, City could be doing United a massive favour in the transfer market and one that could boost their chances of somehow overtaking them in the Premier League! 

 Liverpool's goalkeeper shortlist shortens: The Daily Mail are claiming Chelsea's Petr Cech and Stoke stopper Asmir Begovic are Brendan Rodgers' primary options to replace current Liverpool number one Simon Mignolet in January, after the club failed to put together a deal for Cologne's 21-year-old prospect Timo Horn. 

Paper Round's view:

 Despite several vital saves in the Reds' ultimately-futile attempt to reach the Champions League last-16 by the skin of their teeth, the verdict on Mignolet appears to remain bleak. And due to their experiences with the former Sunderland keeper, one would imagine Liverpool staff and fans alike would surely favour someone as experienced at the highest level as Cech is to someone like Begovic while, though very talented,  could end up suffering as Mignolet has when moving up in club size and expectations/pressure. 

  Pellegrini 'would guide Man City in the Europa League': In an article in The Guardian, Manuel Pellegrini has stated he believes his job as Manchester City boss would NOT be in doubt even if they were to be eliminated from the Champions League by Roma this evening. Paper Round's view: Yeah, pull the other one, Manuel. As much as we admire Pellegrini's optimism (and in this game, you have to keep faith in yourself even when things are bleak), it is hard to imagine those fickle, whimsical creatures known as football club owners would keep patience if the City board's top aim - European glory - goes up in smoke in disappointing fashion once again. The match in Roma is do or die for Pellegrini despite winning the Premier League last season - and deep down, he knows it. 

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Louis van Gaal rages at Gary Neville, his own players and Ronald Koeman after lacklustre win

Louis van Gaal launched a three-pronged attack on Gary Neville, his own players and long-term foe Ronald Koeman after Manchester United's 2-1 win at Southampton.
The Old Trafford boss questioned former United defender Neville's credentials in claiming the Red Devils "got away with murder" with a scrappy victory at St Mary's. Robin van Persie's double edged United home, with Van Gaal only satisfied with three of his stars' performances. Neville condemned United's patchy performance on social media and on Sky Sports, claiming Sunday's Premier League clash with Liverpool could be "like The Dog and Duck versus The Red Lion". "The former player of United?" asked Van Gaal when quizzed on England coach Neville's comments. "That's an English expression? Hmm: maybe (United got away with murder). "He can say everything because he is an ex-legend, but as an ex-legend, or a legend, you have to know what you are saying. "You can interpret: make an interpretation of that. "It's not so difficult to make an interpretation, when I say he has to pay attention to his words." Van Gaal claimed Van Persie's "best performance" in his short managerial stint at United sealed a victory his side barely deserved.

The former Barcelona boss hauled off youngster Paddy McNair in the 39th minute and was forced to rearrange his side with Saints pressing continuously. Van Gaal said "too many" of his players underperformed, but refused to point any fingers. "I think that not only the goals are telling something about Robin Van Persie, I think also his performance: he was one of only three players on the pitch of Manchester United who were good, or maybe very good," said Van Gaal. "He had a great influence on the result. Until now that is his best performance. "Too many players were not good. "There was a range of course between good and bad, but they were not good. "Normally you have six, seven, eight who are good and three in that other range. "But today there were too many players in that range who were not good, I believe." Saints levelled through Graziano Pelle, but slipped to their third consecutive defeat, leaving manager Koeman furious "the better team" lost. Van Gaal offered a thinly-veiled barb at his long-term adversary, taking first blood in the Premier League battle against his former friend. Van Gaal once mentored Koeman into coaching at Barcelona, but the pair's feud has now lasted 10 years. "Of course if you are the better team you deserve more, but believe me it is always the goals that are counting," said Van Gaal. "When we played the first six or seven matches, we never won and we were always the better team. "In that time I didn't say anything about that. You have to learn that also."

Koeman was left to rue another defeat against high-profile opponents, after the 3-0 home loss to Manchester City and 1-0 reverse at Arsenal. The former Holland full-back refused to address Van Gaal or United directly, but admitted "everything is s*** because we lost". "We did everything, we created chances, but we made mistakes as well," said Koeman. "Maybe they made more mistakes than us, but they have players who handle those kinds of mistakes, and that was the difference. "Because on football and chances, I think we deserved more. "It's easy in my opinion, we did not lose against Man United tonight, we lost by ourselves. "Of course it's always difficult, because you're the better team, and again you have to fight against 1-2 down. "After that moment I think we didn't play well, but that's the difference. "At this level, detail makes the difference in football. "The score is 1-2 and you can talk much longer about who played football, which team pressed, but everything is s*** because we lost."

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Mourinho is because the causes of the first defeat for Chelsea to luck and the boys pitch!

As usual, Jose Mourinho to Chelsea continues to make controversial statements, Be, most recently yesterday after the defeat against Newcastle in the Premier League's lead (2-1), which is the first of the Blues during all competitions this season.

Mourinho said in a press statement after the game: "I will not complain after the defeat, the issue was a fluke, we created many opportunities to score over the two halves, but we did not score because of bad luck."

Turning Mourinho for another reason for the defeat when he said: "There were things I thought she disappeared from football caused the defeat as well, where the ball has not disappeared boys stadium shows, which wasted a lot of time."

It is worth mentioning that the defeat of Chelsea reduced the gap on the Premier League pure Almttaz to only 3 points, where he was able Manchester City runner-up and seize the opportunity in order to beat Everton without reply.

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Arsenal smiles again

Thanks to a goal by Danny Welbeck in the hour, Arsenal beat West Bromwich Albion on Saturday (1-0) and recovery after two straight losses in the Premier League. The Gunners temporarily back to fourth in the standings.
If the frustration of robbery suffered against Manchester United (1-2) had been softened by success in the Champions League against Borussia Dortmund Wednesday (2-0), the situation of Arsenal in the Premier League (9) after two consecutive setbacks, did not leave the choice to Arsène Wenger this Saturday on the lawn of West Bromwich Albion. The performance of the Gunners has certainly not been successful, but the victory is at the end (1-0), and it is deserved.

Dominating from the start, Londoners have long lacked inspiration in the last twenty meters. Neither the long shots Santi Cazorla (3rd, 11th, 31st), nor the golden opportunity missed by Olivier Giroud (27th) were allowed to break the deadlock before the Spanish midfielder will drops the ball on the head Danny Welbeck after a pretty big bridge over Andre Wisdom (60th). The Baggies, they have nothing showed almost offensively. But proof that serenity is not yet back at Arsenal, he had to cross to come to the aid of Damian Martinez on a head Saido Berahino (81st).

Player: Olivier Giroud


Holder for the first time since breaking his left foot at the end of August, the former Montpellier was lined up for the first time together with Danny Welbeck. Not 100% yet, Giroud has shown, however, mobile, available and applied. He could see his dry Ben Foster rewarded with a goal, but his shot was just wide after the failed dribble the keeper (27th). He then had few opportunities to shine, but his sacrifice has delighted his fans, who have taken the song in honor of their number 12 several times, until it leaves a quarter of an hour late .dropoff window
Sales: 11

It's not the number of matches went through Danny Welbeck without scoring. No, the England striker found the net after 'only' six games without a goal. Eleven is the number of injuries that account from Arsenal this Saturday afternoon. After Jack Wilshere (ankle), Mikel Arteta (calf), Mesut Özil (knee), David Ospina (thigh), Mathieu Debuchy (ankle), Theo Walcott (groin), Abou Diaby (calf), Serge Gnabry (knee), Yaya Sanogo (thigh) and Wojciech Szczesny (hip) is Nacho Monreal (knee) who had to leave his partner after 23 minutes of play. A blow more for Arsene Wenger as looming the most intense weeks of season.

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Chelsea without a solution

Chelsea conceded Saturday's third draw in the Premier League, Sunderland (0-0). Jose Mourinho's men have not found the solution with the defense regrouped Black Cats.
the match

The undisputed leader of the Premier League, Chelsea hit a snag Saturday at the 13th day. Jose Mourinho's Blues were neutralized (0-0) by Sunderland, which nevertheless plays not the same league as them, as the Black Cats fighting for their maintenance. Londoners have not found a solution to force the safe set up by Gus Poyet, a former home (1997-2001). They have been a few occasions, but Costel Pantilimon made sure the grain, pushing the Oscar attempts (13th), Willian (17th), Ivanovic (31st), Cahill (49th) or Drogba (77th). Their opponents have even been able to achieve the perfect heist, but Santiago Vergini shot cross Courtois, beaten (34th), while Adam Johnson missed part twice (85th, 87th).
A man in the game: Willian

Willian was the Londoner most prominent in Sunderland. Placed on the right side of the attack, the Brazilian has done its best to destabilize the defense of Sunderland. It was dangerous to its centers (6th, 48th, 83rd), his passes (11th, 31st) and even hit the post with a shot from outside the area (17). However, he spoiled a cons in the 82nd, forgetting to serve its partners and by stealing the ball from defenders. It has been replaced by Andre Schürrle in the 85th minute.
The fact of the match: Sunderland was almost the first ...

Sunderland almost succeed where Manchester City, Arsenal, Manchester United, Liverpool and Schalke 04 have failed. End the unbeaten Blues this season. The Black Cats have doubted the leaders of the Championship and had several opportunities to beat them. But they were awkward or have not had success. After 20 matches in all competitions, Chelsea is still undefeated.

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English newspaper: Napoli competes Basel on Salah Services

Napoli seek the services of the Egyptian Mohamed Salah player Chelsea

Approached the Egyptian international Mohamed Salah player first team football club Chelsea to leave the team suffered a total disregard of the artistic director of the Blues after Jose Mourinho

The newspaper "Daily Star" English said to enter many of the race teams get Salah services notably former club Basel in addition to the Italian club Napoli.
She described the Egyptian international newspaper for the oppressed, emphasizing the extent of the frustration that enables the player suffers from being completely ignored by the Portuguese Mourinho for his English.

It is worth mentioning that Salah had moved to the ranks of the "blues" last January, coming from Swiss side Basel.

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Reds coach confident of his team's ability to climb to the role of the sixteen

Brendan Rodgers Liverpool England coach stressed that he was confident that the fate of his team's Champions League football will remain suspended until the last match in the group stage at home to Basel, which is what actually happened.

And conceded Liverpool near the end of the 2-2 draw at the Odogurts Bulgarian Wednesday the team to remain in third place in Group B with four points from five games.

But to win the Basel second-placed ninth day of December next will ensure the England team to qualify for the knockout and relieve pressure on Rodgers.
Said Rodgers, whose side are 12th in the Premier League, told reporters: "Of course we are disappointed in the end because we defended very well and when the result was 2-1 as we refer to it was possible to score a goal or two more goals."

He added: "But we came a point in time that Real Madrid win over Basel .. at the beginning of the tournament I said he might wait until the last game on our court to win it and qualify .. I will accept this."

He continued: "everything one asks to be his fate in his hands, and this is the most important thing tonight .. achieve it back to us .. I'm happy to rely on ourselves in front of our fans in the last game."

The delay in Liverpool in the third minute when goalkeeper Simon Minaoulih failed to deal with a shot from a distance of Marcelinho to pursue Dani Abalo rebound into the net from close range.

But Liverpool 2-1 thanks to goals from Rickie Lambert and Jordan Henderson before sealing Georgi Tersep tie for the Bulgarian team.

Rodgers said: "We needed to come here and provide performance allows us to act with courage in the future, and the outcome will allow us to have the opportunity to qualify for the group and we have succeeded in both."

He added: "reaction team absolutely wonderful after being late early .. you have seen the true character of the team tonight."

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Liverpool getting worse

The Reds lost their fourth straight game in all competitions, on the lawn of Crystal Palace (3-1), coming out of the relegation zone and is just two lengths of their opponents.
The match 3-1.

The last time Liverpool visited Selhurst Park was in May. After leading 3-0 at 10 minutes from the end, Steven Gerrard teammates had finally been caught up in a draw (3-3) which permanently ended their chances of winning the title. Six months later, Liverpool has been no chance of winning the championship (18 points behind Chelsea) and seems to have lost its football.

Despite opening the scoring early Ricky Lambert (2) holds because of injuries Balotelli and Sturridge, Liverpool has gradually sunk to finally concede its fourth straight defeat (3-1) and see their opponents, relegation at kickoff, go back to just two points. Authors of a full game, Neil Warnock's men deserve their success and their three goals by Gayle (17th), Ledley (78th) and Jedinak (82), but it is weak Reds will be remembered. Despite vastly superior team on the paper, Liverpool seemed clueless when he had the ball, and very bad shape on defensive phases. Liverpool is already 12th with six losses. Pressure builds on the shoulders of Brendan Rogers.
Player: Bolasie, constant danger.

Bolasie did not score, but he did everything this afternoon at Selhurst Park. Involved on almost all occasions Crystal Palace, it is the source of the first two goals of local, first on a clear shot from 25 meters crashing against the post Mignolet before enjoying Gayle, then a large class action in the second period. A key on the right side, the Congolese, apparently not tired from traveling internationally that saw him pass two assists against Côte d'Ivoire, ridiculed Lovren a sombrero pivot before adjusting perfect recessed center Joe Ledley.

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Rooney specializes in insulting Arsenal

  Manchester United will meet his counterpart, Arsenal on Saturday in the twelfth round of the Premier League at Emirates Stadium Arsenal Team stronghold.

Both teams enter the game and both of them wants to win three times points to strengthen the position of the team after a bad performance and the weakening of both the coach van Gaal or coach Arsene Wenger.

Sky Sport quoted across its front page Twitter-statistical where more players in the Premier League record came in the Arsenal goal.

And the presence at the top of the list of Manchester United player Wayne Rooney score ten goals came behind Rooney's Robbie Fowler in the same balance, while Drogba came third with eight goals and the same Sheringham balance.

And with seven goals from both Anelka, Darren Bent, Peter Crouch, Jimmy Floyd and Manchester United legend York.

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