The Career Of VVS Laxman Comes To an end

The 16 Years of Career Comes to an end for VVS Laxman as he announces His Retirement. a 16-year career that will be remembered for several innings of extreme grace under extreme pressure. Laxman, 37, had been included in India's squad for the home series against New Zealand starting next week but said he took the decision over the past few days.He announced his decision at an emotional press conference in his hometown Hyderabad, which he will represent in the Ranji Trophy this coming season."I would like to announce my retirement from international cricket with immediate effect," Laxman said. "I have always kept my country's success and need ahead of my personal aspirations. And while I would love contributing to the team's success, especially against England and Australia, I think this is the right time to give the youngsters a chance in home conditions ahead of international assignments coming up next year." The chance he said, could be, "no better than against an inexperienced New Zealand bowling attack."Dressed in a sharp, formal suit, Laxman made his announcement in a conference room at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, in Uppal to the north east of his home city, Hyderabad. Several members of family, including his parents, wife and two children, were present at the function. Shortly into his speech the lights of the conference room went out, and Laxman grinned, an otherwise sombre occasion turning informal.He admitted that this sudden retirement had been "a tough decision to take," adding, "I have always listened to my inner conscience. I have always done that right through my career. There was a lot of debate in the last four days. I felt this is the right time to move on."The decision to quit had been arrived at only on Saturday morning after Laxman admitted he had toyed over the idea over the last few days. "Till last night I was unable to make up my mind, but in the end I listened to my inner voice and arrived at my decision to retire. I informed the chairman of selectors (Krishnamachari Srikkanth) this morning that I would not continue playing for India. I also spoke to many of my team-mates, they were surprised that I was retiring before the series. It was all very emotional."Laxman read out a prepared statement in which he thanked everyone who had been part "of my journey" in which he said he had been able to "live his dream" and felt "blessed that I had got the opportunity. Very few get the opportunity to play for their country." His voice shook only briefly in the early part of his statement and his wife Sailaja was seen wiping away tears. Laxman gathered himself, finished his statement and took questions about quitting only five days before the first Test against New Zealand in Hyderabad. He said that while his family had waned him to play in the Hyderabad Test but he had made up his mind in what had been the "toughest three or four days of my career."In a touch of the dramatic after he had read out his prepared statement, the president of the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) G Vinod appealed to Laxman to change his mind about retirement and agree to play in the Hyderabad Test versus New Zealand next week. In response, Laxman only smiled.He did admit however that until a few weeks ago, he had not thought about quitting the game before the Test series versus New Zealand. It was the "internal debate" over the last few days that led to this decision. It was not however, made in haste or with regret. "I have always read and listened to a lot of sportspersons who have excelled in their careers and they have all said that at the end of their career, there will suddenly be a feeling, a thought within you that a day has come that you have to leave the sport and move on. It is what I have experienced in the last four or five days... I feel really satisfied that I have left the game with the same ideals that I have played the game."When asked whether his decision to retire had come about largely due to adverse criticism following two poor series in England and Australia, Laxman said, "Those comments have definitely not allowed (sic) me to make the decision." The Australia series he said was, "very disappointing. No cricketer would want to lose in such a fashion."Responding to being criticised, Laxman said, "Right from the start of my career there have been a lot of people who wrote negative about me and there have been more people who have been well wishers and talked positive about me. In a country like India, where cricket is more like a religion than a sport, if you try to satisfy each and every one, it's next to impossible."Laxman represented India in 134 Tests, scoring 8781 runs at 45.97. He made his debut against South Africa in the home series in 1996 but shot to the limelight with a knock of 167 against Australia in Sydney in 2000. Perhaps his greatest achievement was his 281 at Eden Gardens in Kolkata in 2001, against Australia, then the highest score by an Indian batsman in Tests. Part of a record stand with Rahul Dravid, it set up a stunning victory for the home team after following on and ended Australia's consecutive 16-match winning streak.Laxman last played an ODI in 2006 but had, by then, become a regular in the Test side and played his 100th Test in 2008, against Australia in Nagpur. Laxman made six of his 17 Test centuries against Australia, with an average of 49.67 in 29 Tests and success both home and away.His performances in the eight Tests during India's disastrous tours of England and Australia in 2011 were disappointing. He averaged 22.75 in England and 19.38 in Australia, prompting some to call for him being dropped from the side with a long-term view of grooming a youngster to take his place.

August 19th Transfers, Latest News, Gossips, Rumours, Speculations

Frank Lampard Gets Into the Last Year:

As this year is the Last Year For Frank Lampard As His Contract ends The Blues Manager RDM Hopes To Sign New Deal To stay At the club.Di Matteo said: 'He has been very influential in his Chelsea career over the years and there are talks between the club and the player.'I give my recommendation and it is the board who make the final decision. It is between the club and the player but I think Frank is a very important player for the club. He had a good game against Italy and I know what he can do.'Di Matteo even believes that 34-year-old Lampard, who captained England against Italy in Berne on Wednesday, could play well beyond the next couple of years.'He is in good shape, has not suffered any major injuries and he looks after himself,' said the Italian. 'Many players like this can go on to play until their late thirties.'Lampard will face stiff competition for a midfield place this season, with Chelsea evolving from a team looking to feed the now-departed Didier Drogba at every opportunity to one with an emphasis on movement.And with Chelsea looking for new marquee signings Eden Hazard and Oscar to rotate around the reborn Fernando Torres, it could mean a more withdrawn position for Lampard

Arsenal Sell Song for £15million To Catalunya:

Arsenal have agreed a £15million deal with Barcelona for Alex Song to leave the Emirates Stadium for Camp Nou.Song's future at Arsenal has been the subject of conjecture for the last week amid reports of interest from Barcelona.The Cameroon international was left out of Arsenal's goalless draw with Sunderland on Saturday and the club have now confirmed they have agreed a €19million (£15million) deal with Barcelona for his services.Song will now fly out to Spain to undergo a medical and discuss personal terms with Barcelona ahead of signing a five-year dealA statement from Arsenal read: "Arsenal Football Club can confirm that terms have been agreed for the transfer of Alex Song to Barcelona."Song will now travel to the Catalan club to agree personal terms and undergo a medical ahead of the proposed move."A statement on Barcelona's website confirmed Song will undergo a medical on Monday."FC Barcelona has agreed a deal with Arsenal FC for the transfer of Alex Song to the Camp Nou. The fee is 19million euros," read the statement."The Cameroon international midfielder will sign for the next five seasons with a release clause of 80million euros."On Monday he'll have a medical and then join the rest of the squad for the official team presentation at the Gamper."Song will become the second high-profile departure from Arsenal in the space of a few days following the sale of Robin van Persie to Manchester United.

Walcott Nightmare For Arsenal:

Theo Walcott has still not signed a new Arsenal contract.

And there are fears the England winger will be the next big-name star to leave after Robin van Persie’s move to Manchester United.Arsenal manager Wenger admitted: “We are still trying to extend his deal.”Wenger has lost skippers Van Persie and Cesc Fabregas in the last 12 months, while midfielder Alex Song is close to a £15million switch to Barcelona. Walcott, 23, has just a year left on his deal.Wenger added: “When a player doesn’t want to stay you either force him or you let him go.”

Luka Modric Not So cheap:

Luka Modric fears his dream £35million move to Real Madrid could collapse.

Angry Spurs have told the midfielder they will not sell him on the cheap.The sensational development comes after a stormy exchange between Real boss Jose Mourinho and Spurs chief Daniel Levy.A meeting on Friday to thrash out a deal for the Croatian ace ended with Mourinho in a rage after Levy asked for another £2m at the last minute.Now ex-Chelsea boss Mourinho is set to pull the plug and look elsewhere leaving Modric devastated.

Chelsea The Title Contenders:

Gary Cahill reckons winning the Champions League could be the biggest factor in the title race not who signed Robin van Persie.Manchester United have swooped for Van Persie to bolster their squad after losing the title to City in the last minute of the season.But Chelsea have been crowned kings of Europe since then and Cahill insists Roberto Di Matteo’s men are Premier League contenders this season.He said: “We are definitely title contenders with the squad we have got and the confidence we have because of what we did at the back end of last season.“It will stand us in good stead going into this year.“It is fresh at Chelsea. There are new signings and it will be exciting, especially if we can produce the form we did in the last two months of last season.” Van Persie’s move to Old Trafford has dominated the headlines ahead of the new season yet Chelsea have signed Eden Hazard, Oscar and Marko Marin.Cahill, 26, admitted: “Van Persie would have an impact on any team he plays for.“You see his work and what he can do, last year especially. He would be a fantastic signing for anyone.“Teams are getting so strong but we have added to our squad so hopefully we will keep up with that and we are looking to go about our business.“Last year the league form was not what we wanted so it’s important we address that this season and I’m sure we will.”Chelsea start their season against Wigan today and defender Cahill is desperate to return to competitive action after missing the Euros with a jaw injury.He added: “It was a nightmare. Emotionally it was frustrating when you hear the national anthem and you should be there.“But I was willing England to do well. I watched all the games.”He returned for the friendly win over Italy in midweek and said: “It was obviously great to be back.“I was looking forward to the game. especially as there are some important games coming up in September.”

Other Latest News,Transfers,Rumours,Speculations and Gossips:

• Man Utd shelled out over £70 MILLION to land Van Persie
• Sunderland make bid for Man Utd striker Berbatov
• Man Utd reject shock Chelsea approach for Chicharito
• Arsenal boss Wenger explains Song sale to Barcelona
• Man Utd to slap in new bid for Everton fullback Baines
• Giggs: Van Persie impressive in Man Utd training
• Fletcher completes full 90 for Man Utd U21
• Sunderland steal march on Spurs, Everton in Johnson race
• Rooney: Van Persie arrival has boosted everyone at Man Utd
• Bristol City set to sign QPR striker DJ Campbell
• Chelsea boss Di Matteo: I'm not bothered by critics
• Adkins has no fears taking Southampton to Man City
• Milner: Everyone now gunning for Man City
• Man Utd boss Ferguson assures Welbeck of playing chances
• Marseille president rules out Mbia swap for QPR's Barton
• Chelsea boss Di Matteo excited by new-look midfield
• Chelsea boss Di Matteo: I want Lampard to stay
• West Ham boss Allardyce hails matchwinner Nolan
• QPR boss Hughes shellshocked by 5-0 humiliation
• Swansea boss Laudrup can't guarantee Sinclair stay
• Swansea boss Laudrup laughs off being top of table
• Swansea boss Laudrup: 0-5 beyond wildest dreams
• West Brom boss Clarke: That wasn't about Liverpool revenge
• Liverpool boss Rodgers defends stroppy Suarez
• Rodgers pleads for patience after Liverpool defeat
• Liverpool boss Rodgers: We didn't deserve that
• Norwich boss Hughton: That was awful
• Fulham boss Jol delighted with Kacaniklic in victory over Norwich
• Jol insists Dempsey can still have Fulham future
• Jol raps Fulham fans for Dempsey taunts
• Tottenham boss AVB left disappointed with Newcastle defeat
• Tottenham boss AVB expects Modric to complete Real Madrid move
• Newcastle boss Pardew full of praise for goal scorer Ba
• Newcastle boss Pardew admits antics were out of order
• Sunderland boss O'Neill pleased with Arsenal point
• Arsenal boss Wenger hopes to add Sahin to squad in days
• Arsenal boss Wenger denies Van Persie sale influenced Sunderland stalemate
• Wenger pleased with Cazorla debut for Arsenal
• Arsenal boss Wenger left frustrated by Sunderland stalemate
• Arsenal boss Wenger expects Bendtner sale
• Inter Milan, Juventus circling Arsenal for Walcott
• Ex-Man City chief Cook: Dodgy phone line led to Messi offer
• Valencia midfielder Canales happy with Real Madrid experience
• Falcao only thinking about Atletico Madrid future
• De Guzman backing Swansea push for Valencia's Hernandez
• Real Madrid coach Mourinho confirms Sahin loan plans
• Daniel Alves: Barcelona title favourites
• Atletico Madrid keeper Courtois unhappy with late kickoff
• Espanyol swoop for Atletico Madrid winger Simao
• Man City boss Mancini admits talks for Athletic Bilbao's Martinez

Barclays Premier League Season 2012-2013 Round Up Day 1

The New Season Of Barclays Premier league  2012-2013 Day 1 Rounds Up:

WBA 3-0 Liverpool

West bromwich Albion Kicked Off their Season with A Thrilling victory over Liverpool.a miserable 3-0 defeat at West Brom in Brendan Rodgers’ first Premier League match as Reds boss, while Arsenal started life without Robin van Persie with a dour 0-0 draw against Sunderland on Saturday. Rodgers took over from Kenny Dalglish after Liverpool finished eighth last season, their worst final position for 18 years, and on the evidence of a shocking result at the Hawthorns the former Swansea manager still has plenty of work to do.Rodgers, who gave debuts to new signings Joe Allen and Fabio Borini and left unsettled striker Andy Carroll on the bench, might have feared the worst when he saw Zoltan Gera blast Albion into the lead with a stunning 43rd-minute strike. It was a sweet moment for Albion manager Steve Clarke, who was sacked by Liverpool at the end of last season after spending 18 months at Anfield as Dalglish’s assistant. Pepe Reina kept Liverpool in the match when he saved Shane Long’s woeful second half penalty after Reds defender Daniel Agger was sent off for a professional foul. But Albion won another penalty in the 64th minute and this time Nigerian striker Peter Odemwingie stepped up to blast home. And Romelu Lukaku, on loan from Chelsea, rubbed salt into Liverpool’s wounds when he marked his West Brom debut with a 77th-minute strike.

Arsenal 0-0 Sunderland

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger must have been concerned that the Gunners failed to break down Sunderland at the Emirates Stadium in the first game since Dutch striker van Persie’s £24 million move to Manchester United. Wenger gave debuts to Germany striker Lukas Podolski and Spain midfielder Santi Cazorla, while French forward Olivier Giroud, another new signing, came off the bench. But the new boys were underwhelming, with Giroud missing the best chance of the afternoon.

QPR 0-5 Swansea City

new Swansea boss Michael Laudrup had to wait just eight minutes for his side to strike, with midfielder Michu scoring the first goal of the new season when he found the net with a little help from QPR custodian Robert Green.The Spaniard saw his left-footed shot trickle past Green when the England goalkeeper really should have done better.Michu ensured it was a debut to remember when he doubled Swansea's lead on 53 minutes with his second goal of the game.The Spaniard picked up a pass from Wayne Routledge and curled a superb shot beyond Green to send the away fans into raptures.Things got worse for QPR when Nathan Dyer made it 3-0 on 63 minutes after a fine flowing move from the visitors opened the QPR defence up.Dyer was not to be outdone by Michu and he grabbed his second of the game eight minutes later to pile the misery on the home fans.Michu turned creator for Swansea's fifth goal nine minutes from time when he played in Scott Sinclair in acres of space to fire home past Green and complete a dream day.

Fulham 5-0 Norwich

Fulham matched Swansea in hitting five goals as they strolled past Norwich 5-0 at Craven Cottage as Martin Jol got the better of his former assistant Chris Hughton.Fulham broke the deadlock after 26 minutes when Duff broke the offside trap to latch onto John Arne Riise's superb crossfield pass to stab the ball past John Ruddy.Mladen Petric marked his debut for Fulham with a second goal five minutes before the break with a headed effort.Fulham added a third on 54 minutes when Petric's shot from the edge of the box deflected in off Michael Turner to wrongfoot Ruddy.Alex Kacaniklic got in on the act on 64 minutes with a fine finish after some neat approach play from Moussa Dembele and Petric.Substitute Steve Sidwell completed Norwich's misery when he scored from the penalty spot three minutes from time after Turner brought down Hugo Rodallega.

West Ham 1-0 Aston Villa

Nolan's decisive goal was like so many others that he has scored down the years for Allardyce, the midfielder converting from close range after Ricardo Vaz Tê cut back the ball from the goalline. The assistant referee had waved frantically to indicate that Vaz Tê was offside when he had received the ball but the official in the middle, Mike Dean correctly spotted the ball had arrived at the Portuguese via the hand of defender Ciaran Clark.Villa's manager, Paul Lambert, graciously congratulated the referee afterwards for making the right call, while Allardyce hailed the prowess of his 30-year-old captain. "He got that goal on instinct," Allardyce said. "He's on the move when other players are standing watching. He's as good in the box as any Premier League forward."The goal was extravagant reward for a first half in which Allardyce's team grew in stature after being initially cowed by Villa's controlled passing. Lambert's first mission as Villa manager is to banish the disturbing memory of Alec McLeish's grim reign and the tidy interplay his team showed earned the approval of the travelling fans. Their relieved chants of "we're Aston Villa and we're passing the ball" brought levity that temporarily atoned for the lack of goalmouth action.

Reading 1-1 Stoke City

Reading stepped back into the Premier League limelight after a four-year absence and ran straight into the mean machine that is Stoke City. In a predictably dour match for years, Stoke have successfully suffocated and stifled many better opponents Reading needed a dramatic late equaliser to escape defeat.Garath McCleary, a jack-in-the-box substitute, drove into the Stoke area in the 89th minute and was felled by Dean Whitehead, who collected a second yellow card and then red for his clumsy challenge. Adam le Fondre thumped the spot-kick past Asmir Begovic to rescue a draw and, with a visit to Chelsea on Wednesday, a welcome point. Perhaps it should have been all three, such was Reading's dominance for sustained periods, but it was always an uphill slog after Adam Federici's first-half howler. That Stoke showed such a startling lack of ambition, after being gifted the opener, did not help, either.Last season, Federici was so often the saviour as Reading secured the Championship title. This time, faced with a rare effort on target by Stoke a tame mis-hit shot into the ground by Michael Kightly the Australian goalkeeper went to gather the ball but succeeded only in allowing it to squirm through his grasp.For Kightly, a £2m summer buy from Wolves, the joy. For Federici, the embarrassment. "We all make errors," Brian McDermott, the Reading manager, said. "I make errors most days. Adam's a great character, he was upset about it, but it's just part of life. I suppose I can't be too disappointed with a point. I thought that was the least we deserved. We kept going, as we always do, even though the temperatures weren't conducive to good football. Stoke have been in the Premier League for a long time so maybe we now know that we can compete [at this level]."Tony Pulis, the Stoke manager, did not contest the penalty, given by Kevin Friend, or the dismissal of Whitehead. "It could have gone either way," Pulis said. "And if the referee has seen it, he has to book Dean, who has already been booked, and has to send him off."However, Pulis did question the time-lapse between Whitehead's foul and the awarding of the penalty. Friend had tried to play advantage, which resulted in Begovic saving a close-range Le Fondre effort, before going back to point to the spot. "It's a good rule, it gives advantage to the attacking team," Pulis said. "But we have to be consistent. When do you start it? When do you stop?"Pulis will try to clarify the issue with Mike Riley, general manager of the referees' governing body. Even at this early stage of the season, he may have to join a queue.

Newcastle 2-1 Tottenham Hotspurs

Hatem Ben Arfa gave Newcastle a winning start to the Premier League season Saturday, clinching a 2-1 victory over Tottenham after manager Alan Pardew had been sent off for pushing a match official.Ben Arfa scored from the penalty spot in the 80th minute after being tripped by Rafael van der Vaart, four minutes after Jermain Defoe appeared to have salvaged a point for Tottenham.Just before Tottenham's leveler with Newcastle leading through Demba Ba's goal Pardew was sent to the stands by referee Martin Atkinson for a furious response to a touchline incident.''It was ridiculous, I apologize publicly,'' Pardew said after the match. ''I thought the ball was out, I shoved him (referee's assistant Stuart Burt). I have pleaded with my players to behave and follow the Olympic spirit.''I can only apologize. I've been to see him and told him I didn't know what I was thinking.''Pardew could be facing a Football Association misconduct charge despite his contrition.At least his players delivered on the pitch.But it was a miserable day all round for Tottenham counterpart Andre Villas-Boas in his first competitive match since replacing Harry Redknapp, who was fired despite the team finishing fourth in May, one place above Newcastle.''We deserved more, played well, had the chances in the first half and pushed in the second,'' said Villas-Boas, who was fired by Chelsea in March. ''We deserved something extra for the effort we did and the game we played. We showed why we did so well last season and deserved more.''Spurs looked sharper in the first half when shots by Defoe and Gareth Bale hit the goal frame.A low-key encounter sprung into life 10 minutes into the second half when Ba scored his first goal since February against the run of play.Danny Simpson's high ball into the box was only half-headed clear by Kyle Walker, and Ba responded by sending a curling shot high into the net from the corner of the box.Spurs equalized in the 76th when Aaron Lennon crossed into a crowded box and Defoe wriggled free to fire past Tim Krul at the second attempt after his initial header had been parried by the goalkeeper.After Ben Arfa restored Newcastle's lead from the penalty spot, Jonas Gutierrez almost extended Newcastle's advantage with an ambitious looping effort but Brad Friedel tipped it over the bar.

Football Talks and Latest News On Transfers,Rumours

Zenit St Petersburg Makes Bid For Nani:

Zenit St Petersburg Has Launched A New Bid For The Portuguese Nani who plays At Manchester United As a Winger.The Portugal winger could find first-team football harder to come by at Old Trafford this season after the arrivals of Robin van Persie and Shinji Kagawa.'The news about Nani is true,'Zenit coach Luciano Spalletti said on Friday.'Everything will depend on how much players cost because we won’t pay excessive amounts of money.'When asked whether Zenit had made a bid, he said: “I’m not talking about an offer to a particular player, but an offer to a club.''If the club won’t sell a player, then there’s no thought of making an offer to the player himself.'Last month, Spalletti named Hulk and Nani as among a small number of players he believed could strengthen the team.

AS Roma Set To Sign Marquinhos:

Marquinhos is edging closer to a move to Roma as the Serie A side have reached an agreement with Corinthians over a summer switch, Corriere dello Sport reports.The Giallorossi are looking to add some fresh blood to their defense following the departure of players such as Simon Kjaer, Gabriel Heinze and Juan earlier this summer, and they see the 18-year-old Brazilian as a good addition.Roma will reportedly pay Corinthians a 1.5 million euros fee to loan the center back until the end of the 2012-13 campaign, with the obligation to make the move permanent for an additional 3.5m euros next summer.Marquinhos is expected to travel to the Italian capital shortly to undergo a medical, and will ink a five-year deal upon completion of his physical tests.Both clubs have yet to confirm the imminent move, but an official statement is expected to be released in the upcoming days.

Southampton Eye Gaston Ramirez:

SOUTHAMPTON broke their transfer record for the second time this summer by agreeing a £12million fee with Bologna for Uruguay star Gaston Ramirez, 21, will become the highest-paid player in Saints’ history by snubbing Spurs and Liverpool to sign a £50,000-a-week deal at St Mary’s.Saints chairman Nicola Cortese flew into the UK from Switzerland to seal the move, which dwarfs the £6.5m he paid Burnley for striker Jay Rodriguez.Midfielder Ramirez said: “Southampton have reached agreement with me, it is the classic offer you cannot refuse.“They believe in me. I will be essential and the club will grow.”

Another Signing Of Liverpool Completed:

Liverpool complete signing of Oussama Assaidi from Heerenveen.The 24-year-old winger has signed a long-term deal having passed a medical on Friday. He becomes Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers's third signing, following Fabio Borini and Joe Allen.Rodgers admits it may take Assaidi a while to settle at Anfield but he believes that, given time, the winger will be a success.

Van Persie Will Help Rather Then Hinder Welbeck-Alex Ferguson:

Sir Aex Ferguson insists Robin van Persie's arrival at Manchester United won't prove detrimental to the development of Danny Welbeck.Van Persie's arrival at Old Trafford will limit Welbeck's opportunities in the first team as the Dutchman and Wayne Rooney will most likely form Sir Alex's first choice strike partnership.However, the United manager believes 29-year-old van Persie can pass on his experience to the younger players in a similar way to how Eric Cantona nurtured his young side 20 years ago."You can always learn from great players," he told the club's official website. "Remember what Cantona did for all the young players when he arrived? He was a tremendous teacher for them."Danny will learn from playing with Robin, [Wayne] Rooney and Chicharito. I think we have a great combination of strikers now and that's encouraged me."The 21-year-old has himself welcomed the competition the £24 million signing will bring to Old Trafford.Sir Alex added: "I saw his interview and it was very refreshing. He started talking about scoring more goals I hope he's right!"At 21 he's a young boy. He's still growing and has niggles, but he’s going to be a big boy. He won't play every week but when he's 23 or 24 he’ll be a fantastic player."Welbeck made his breakthrough last season, playing a prominent role in Manchester United's title challenge and England's Euro 2012 campaign, after a successful loan spell at Sunderland the year before.

Mancini" United Have worlds Best Strikers":

ROBERTO MANCINI says Manchester United have the world’s best frontline.Alex Ferguson’s side landed Robin van Persie to go with Wayne Rooney, Danny Welbeck and Javier Hernandez.Manchester City manager Mancini said: “For this reason they are title favourites. That’s the best in the world. For this reason we need to work more. Without Van Persie they are two yards in front. With him, they are five.”Mancini’s quartet of Sergio Aguero, Mario Balotelli, Edin Dzeko and Carlos Tevez banged in 72 goals between them last season.But the Italian wanted Van Persie and confirmed they held talks over Javi Martinez, who joined Bayern Munich from Atletico Madrid this week.Mancini added: “I’m happy with my strikers. Last year we did very well. There’s no problem.”

Money Madness Has To Finish Says Arsene Wenger:

Arsene Wenger has predicted a backlash against football’s reckless pay spiral after Robin van Persie signed his lucrative contract at Manchester United.Van Persie completed his £24million transfer to United on Friday, signing a four-year deal worth more than £40m to the Dutchman, as Arsenal were finalising the sale of Alex Song to Barcelona.A fee of £15m is close to being agreed for Song and he is expected to fly to Barcelona on Sunday to complete the deal.Arsenal were prepared to make Van Persie the best paid player in their history but his £250,000-a-week wage at Old Trafford is double what any player earns at the Emirates.‘We live in the economic reality which other clubs do not,’ said Wenger. ‘There are some things we cannot afford to do. It is as simple as that.‘How much do you want to pay, £250,000 a week? £300,000? We are here to make the players as rich as possible but aslo to respect our balance sheet.‘Honestly, I think it is a short-term problem. You cannot imagine the world will go on just splashing money out without any return.‘When you have lost the standard of living for normal people, and the football world always gets higher and higher, that cannot last because people will not accept it.’Wenger, who signed Van Persie from Feyenoord for £2.75m eight years ago, remained patient as the striker struggled with injuries and refused to criticise him for joining rivals United after an incredible 37-goal season.‘This is a situation that is a completely brutal reality of professional sport,’ Wenger said. ‘Robin was captain of the team last year and until the last minute of the season he fought like mad. That is professional.

Tito Eyes Every Trophy with Barcelona:

Barcelona's new coach Tito Vilanova says he is looking to "win everything" this season as he replaces Pep Guardiola, who stepped down after a trophyless campaign."I hope to win everything. I think we have a sufficiently strong team to win every game," Vilanova told reporters ahead of his side's opening match Sunday against Real Sociedad.Vilanova, who steps up having been assistant to Guardiola, will have to go some to match his mentor, who delivered 14 trophies in four years in charge -- including two Champions Leagues.It will be "very difficult for me" to reach his lofty goals, Vilanova admitted. But "it would have been for any coach who had come in - and for Pep, had he stayed".Vilanova insisted he did not feel under pressure to match his predecessor's achievements. "I do not feel under pressure from that, I am calm - that's how I am," he said."I have the same feeling I had when I was an assistant - I want to win."Vilanova stressed he would not be carrying out root and branch reform of a team led by the effervescent Lionel Messi and which will welcome back striker David Villa after eight months out through injury - though he may not be ready for Sunday's opener."It's clear we will try to maintain continuity when it comes to our way of playing," he explained, adding that Villa would be brought back slowly as he builds up his match fitness.

Other Transfer News,Latest News and Rumours August 18th:

• Zenit boss Spalletti: We want Man Utd winger Nani
• Arsenal boss Wenger taunts Man Utd pair Welbeck, Chicharito: When will you play?
• Man Utd boss Ferguson: I want one more signing
• Arsenal boss Wenger tribute to Van Persie: He was miraculous last season
• O'Neill determined to add to Sunderland squad
• Allen happy following Rodgers to Liverpool
• Allen hopes to add passing game to Liverpool midfield
• Sunderland boss O'Neill: Arsenal weaker without Van Persie
• Man City name Soriano as new chief executive
• Sunderland boss O'Neill: I'm no transfer market cheap skate
• Ex-Tottenham boss Redknapp sparks agents row
• Zenit drop interest in Man Utd striker Berbatov
• Man Utd boss Ferguson: Man City our biggest threat
• Swansea players trying to coax Laudrup onto training pitch
• Swansea boss Laudrup: I'm more coach than manager
• Chelsea seek Spanish break for Mata
• Everton boss Moyes plans Barkley loan move
• Lambert wants aggression from his Villa
• Villa boss Lambert shocked by relegation talk
• Liverpool chiefs convinced me, admits Oussama Assaidi
• Everton sign Dundalk fullback Ben McLaughlin
• Everton boss Moyes wants two more signings
• Everton boss Moyes explains Rodwell sale to Man City
• Everton youngsters welcome U21 Premier League comp
• Gibson warns Everton pals: Man Utd will want revenge
• Everton still battling to land Olympiakos striker Mirallas
• Swansea move for Blackpool defender Baptiste
• Valencia winger Hernandez desperate for Swansea move
• Stoke rival Everton for Liverpool's Adam
• Juventus try again for Man City outcast Dzeko
• FC Twente move for Man City defender Boyata
• Tottenham boss AVB axes Dawson, Huddlestone
• Reading striker Pogrebnyak: Fulham didn't want me
• Angelo Henriquez to start season with Man Utd U21s
• Man Utd boss Ferguson: No serious offers for Berbatov
• De Gea welcomes new Man Utd teammate Van Persie
• Man Utd boss Ferguson: Fletcher looking fantastic
• Arsenal boss Wenger pushing to trump Liverpool for Sahin
• Toulouse defender Cheikh M'Bengue reveals Arsenal talks
• Tottenham boss Villas-Boas convinced of Kane quality
• Tottenham boss AVB insists no feud with Newcastle's Pardew
• Merson: Arsenal better off without Van Persie
• Vermaelen proud to accept Arsenal captaincy
• Francis Coquelin determined to be Arsenal starter
• Stoke set to cash in on Jones, Jerome
• Villa winger N'Zogbia confident in Lambert tactics
• Tottenham to make offer for Chelsea's Meireles
• West Ham boss Allardyce puts Danny Potts on notice
• Newcastle boss Pardew to hand Geordie striker Adam Campbell debut
• Portsmouth sign Chelsea midfielder Clifford
• LA Galaxy plan sensational move for Real Madrid's Kaka
• Agent: Man City boss Mancini wants Roma's De Rossi
• Juventus coach Carrera impressed by Pogba
• Bologna coach Pioli adamant no Southampton agreement for Ramirez
• AC Milan legend Inzaghi enjoying first weeks as coach
• Juventus defender Lichtsteiner eager to hear from PSG
• Pellegrini eager for Malaga to come together
• Real Madrid winger Di Maria: Mourinho making me better
• Suker excited seeing Tottenham's Modric make Real Madrid move
• Athletic Bilbao striker Llorente rejects Arsenal approach
• Man Utd boss Ferguson: Van Persie arrival just like Cantona signing
• Arsenal boss Wenger: No way we were going to pay Van Persie £300k-a-week!
• Arsenal chiefs fear Walcott will walk
• Van Persie hand-picked No20 Man Utd shirt
• Venables: Man City will retain title. Tevez the key
• Man City boss Mancini 'calm' after missing out on Van Persie, Martinez
• Man City boss Mancini: Man Utd now have best strike force
• Venables: AVB will lead Tottenham into top three
• Arsenal boss Wenger unsure of Song stay
• Van Persie: First Man Utd training session went great
• Man Utd boss Ferguson not surprised by Ferdinand Twitter fine
• Vurnon Anita: I've joined Newcastle to win trophies
• Gaston Ramirez insists: I'm joining Southampton
• Sunderland boss O'Neill happy to take Saha gamble
• Tevez convinced he and Aguero can fire Man City to glory
• Man City boss Mancini: I'm now happy with Tevez
• Liverpool boss Rodgers confident of two new signings
• Rodgers pleads with Liverpool fans to be patient
• Liverpool hope to close deal for Barcelona winger Tello
• Fulham boss Jol slams "embarrassing" Liverpool over Dempsey pursuit
• Liverpool pushing to sign Real Madrid midfielder Sahin
• Tiote delighted Ba, Cisse staying with Newcastle
• Di Matteo demands more goals from Chelsea midfield
• Newcastle boss Pardew confident adding to squad before deadline
• Tottenham striker Defoe disappointed Modric leaving for Real Madrid
• Tottenham boss AVB won't consider Defoe sale
• Di Matteo confident new Chelsea midfield trio will prove class
• Chelsea boss Di Matteo explains Mata break
• Wigan boss Martinez blasts Chelsea over Moses pursuit
• QPR boss Hughes: Marseille good option for Barton
• Everton boss Moyes excited by Naismith impact
• Fulham boss Jol dismisses Real Madrid talk for Dembele
• West Brom boss Clarke: I ain't sleeping
• West Ham chief Brady takes swipe at Hines and his agent
• Liverpool signing Allen tribute to Speed influence on career
• Southampton boss Adkins doesn't fear the sack
• Allardyce: West Ham expect to stay up
• Norwich boss Hughton tribute to Fulham rival Jol
• Reading boss McDermott: Zingarevich down-to-earth
• Stoke boss Pulis: We're still in there for Owen

Former chelsea defender Bosingwa signed by QPR

QPR have announced the signing of former Chelsea full-back Jose Bosingwa on a three-year deal as the Loftus Road club continue to strengthen ahead of the new season.Bosingwa, 29, was released from his Chelsea contract at the end of last season and joins a raft of new faces through the doors at Loftus Road this summer.A twice Champions League winner, the former Porto defender will provide Mark Hughes with further full-back options as the R's look towards the top-half of the Premier League this campaign.Following the announcement, Hughes could not hide his pleasure at the signing, telling the club's official website: "I am delighted to bring a player of his undoubted quality to the club. He has got plenty of pace, great technical ability and all the attributes you need to be a top player."Jose has a lot of versatility which is something I like my players to have. He can operate right across the back and can also play the holding role in midfield."He's another Champions League winner, the third in the squad now with Ji-Sung Park and Djibril Cisse, and will add invaluable experience to the group. His experience is really important to us. He understands the Premier League and he understands what it takes to win games. He has got a winning mentality and that is what I want to have around the place."Bosingwa, who has won league titles in both Portugal and England to add to his continental titles, is not eligible to make his debut against Swansea on Saturday, but is looking forward to helping the club progress in their long-term vision.He added: "I'm really pleased to be here. I had the pick of many clubs, but the project here excites me greatly. I spoke yesterday with the manager and owner and they showed me what they want for the future of the club."I played for Chelsea for four years and I love Premier League football and the supporters. It is fantastic for me to stay in England. I'm happy and all of my family are happy, and that is most important. This is maybe the most important challenge of my career. I want to help my team-mates and the team with my experience."Now I am a QPR player, I will give my best for the team and for the supporters. All together, we will fight for the club. We need time. We start now and in one, two or three years we can win something. We have to have passion and I think the results will come."The Portugal full-back will wear the No. 19 shirt for QPR this season and becomes the squad's third Champions League winner, joining Djibril Cisse and Park Ji-Sung at Loftus Road.

Robin Van Persie New Man Utd Player

Robin Van Persie has joined Manchester United to "achieve greatness", with the striker stating that the club are a perfect match for him and that he believes there is no bad feeling between him and Arsenal after the £23m transfer. Asked if he would like to win titles and European Cups at Old Trafford, the Holland striker said: "To do it again. I'd like to be part of that because they did it already. I didn't. That's what I'd like to do."The signing of Van Persie, who agreed a four-year deal worth at least £10m a-season, is a coup for Sir Alex Ferguson as Manchester City were also interested. The Dutchman, 29, says he chose United over City because of their football heritage. "Manchester United breathe football in every aspect, for me it was quite soon that I made my decision," he said."It was based on a lot of things and all those things went to Manchester United. When you have to make a hard decision in your life I always listen to the little boy inside me. What does he want? That little boy was screaming for Manchester United. I have had lots of challenges, but how it stands now, this is my biggest."Arsène Wenger, the Arsenal manager, did not want to lose Van Persie, who will wear the No20 shirt. But the player does not believe relations have been damaged. "I would like to [thank] Arsenal for the last eight years. I would like to thank the fans and Mr Wenger, they were always great to me. From my side and Arsenal's there is no hard feelings, it's just on certain elements I had a different view – that's life. Nobody is angry at me, I'm not angry at them."Now it's about looking forward. I'm proud to be here and I'm looking forward to achieving big things. This morning I had a good [training] session. I just noticed every single one was very helpful. It's like a family club, that's what I'm used to so in that respect it's not a big difference."Van Persie scored 44 times in all competitions last season, and is looking forward to partnering Wayne Rooney, who managed 38. "Of course I'd love to play with Wayne Rooney," he said. "I've said many times before he's a world-class player, one of the best. I always look at players and like to see that they can adapt in every single game and Rooney can do that. He scores goals and makes assists."Ferguson pointed to Van Persie's maturity as a vital addition to United's dressing room. "He's what we have needed for the last couple of years," the Scot said. "He's got maturity to his game, authority, timing and understanding of the game. I think we will benefit for the next four years and beyond."He's a player that every time I gave team talks was a problem for us because he kept popping up in different positions, sometimes on the right, sometimes dropping off, sometimes in the middle, so at least I've taken that problem away."Van Persie's arrival marks a departure in policy for United, who have recruited players with potential in recent seasons. "It's true that we are good at buying young players and developing them," Ferguson said. "We never thought we could get Van Persie, even if you go back six months I couldn't see us getting him. I didn't think Arsenal would let him go, but then he refused a new contract and that's when we acted."I think the point I'm making about maturity is we needed a finished player. [Paul] Scholes and [Ryan] Giggs are coming to the end. I think we were still capable of winning the title without Robin, but he gives us a sort of certainty for the future."Ferguson claimed that his dealings with Wenger had been friendly. "I can't elaborate but it was amicable," he said. "Arsène knew the boy wanted to leave and wanted to come here so that made it easier. But it didn't make it easier in terms of trying to reduce the fee. He [Wenger] could run a poker school in Govan. He's got a great price but we're also happy."Regarding whether Van Persie will start at Everton on Monday, Ferguson added: "He hasn't played much, adrenaline will help him – we will have a look at him on Saturday and Sunday. After we'll have a good idea of whether to start him or put him on the bench."Van Persie's arrival provides competition for Danny Welbeck, who often partnered Rooney last season, and may finally lead to Dimitar Berbatov's departure. "You always learn from great players, and I think Danny will welcome that," Ferguson said. "There's nothing happened on Berba, there's been a bit of interest but nothing definite that has encouraged us to sell."

Wenger: ''Song Could Leave Arsenal''

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has admitted that Alex Song could be the next player to leave the club, with Barcelona set to seal a move for him.Wenger was unusually open about the possibility of further exits from the Emirates Stadium after Robin van Persie moved closer to completing a £24 million transfer to Manchester United. Pressed on the subject ahead of Saturday's season opener, Wenger replied: "Both could happen, but my focus is on the Sunderland game. This decision (on Song) is not made."Asked if the Gunners had received a bid, he replied: "No. I cannot tell you more."Wenger suggested he would be open to a sale, given the number of players at his disposal."Midfield is a different area because we have nine or ten midfielders of top-class quality," he said. "Just today we have six or seven midfielders available, plus Wilshere and Frimpong who are coming back. Diaby is available again, Arteta, Cazorla, Ramsey, Oxlade-Chamberlain now plays central midfield - this is an area we have much more freedom to make decisions."El Mundo Deportivo believes Arsenal are holding out for €25 million for Song, but Barcelona are only willing to offer €20 million. Even so, Adriano this week became the latest Barca player to speak positively about the prospect of his arrival."He is a very good player," Adriano said. "In our matches against them you could see he is a footballer with a lot of quality. He would be welcome here and well received."Real Madrid midfielder Nuri Sahin has been linked as a replacement for Song, and the Arsenal boss said he was considering his options."He [Sahin] is one of the players we are following," Wenger said."Anyway, I am happy with my midfield options whatever happens with Song. In fact, I feel we are better prepared this season than we have been for some time. We have so many options and even though we are all disappointed to lose Van Persie, the squad we have is strong in every department."Meanwhile, Thomas Vermaelen was appointed as the new Arsenal captain with Mikel Arteta handed the vice-captaincy."It is Vermaelen and Arteta," Wenger said. "Vermaelen was vice-captain, so it is a quick decision. I think we have many potential captains in the squad, but at the moment it will be like that."

''Striking options are now as great as 1999''says Fergie

Sir Alex Ferguson believes the signing of Robin van Persie will give him a strikeforce to compare with the prolific quartet who helped fire Manchester United to Champions League glory in 1999.United have had a £24 million bid accepted for Arsenal captain Van Persie, who is likely to complete his move to Old Trafford on Thursday.Ferguson expects the Dutchman to make his debut in Monday's match at Everton, where he could join Wayne Rooney in a partnership comprising the two top scorers in the Premier League last season."They are two fantastic players and it's great to have the both of them," Ferguson said. "It's great to have a player of Van Persie's qualities coming into the squad. He is on his way up from London, he will have a medical later this afternoon and we hope that goes according to plan."His agent is in talks with David [Gill]. Hopefully everything will be tied up by the end of the day. I am sure he will be available for Monday's game."Together with Danny Welbeck and Javier Hernandez, plus Shinji Kagawa, Ferguson feels he has a group of forwards to rival the class of 1999.Andy Cole and Dwight Yorke started the Champions League final win over Bayern Munich, while Teddy Sheringham and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer came off the bench to score the goals.Ferguson added: "If you go back to 1999 season and we had Dwight and Andy and Teddy and Ole Gunnar - the four best strikers in Europe - and we are getting back towards that now."We have got Chicharito, we have got Wayne, we have got Robin, we have got Danny Welbeck and we have got Kagawa. That is a fantastic combination of players. Hopefully I pick the right combinations."Ferguson was speaking as Manchester United announced a three-year partnership with bwin, now the club's official gaming partner.