Pages

Keep foot on pedal, warns Solskjaer

Keep foot on pedal, warns Solskjaer

LONDON • Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has warned his Manchester United players against complacency as they seek to extend their perfect record under him against Brighton in the Premier League today.
The Norwegian has won all six of his matches in charge - the best start of any United manager - since taking over on Dec 19 following the sacking of Jose Mourinho, and will look to keep up their hot streak at Old Trafford.
While the home team are on a high after beating Tottenham 1-0 away last weekend, Solskjaer wants his team to continue to play on the front foot and "not take their foot off the pedal".
He told reporters at his pre-match press conference: "You go into every single game as a United coach, player or manager thinking you'll win the next one, that's just the nature of this club.
"We've had six good games but the next one is the most important one. You cannot be too confident.
"I want them (the players) going into games full of confidence, taking people on, getting the crowd with them as that's what it's about."
Paul Pogba agreed with the interim boss about taking the game to the opposition, telling Sky Sports now that they "know where to attack and where to go", the club have rediscovered the attacking verve that was their hallmark under former manager Alex Ferguson.


  • ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE




  • TODAY


    Wolves v Leicester
    Ch102 & Ch227, 8.30pm
    Liverpool v Crystal Palace
    Ch102 & Ch227, 11pm
    Arsenal v Chelsea
    Ch102 & Ch227, tomorrow, 1.30am
    Man United v Brighton
    Ch103 & Ch228, 11pm
    Newcastle v Cardiff
    Ch104 & Ch229, 11pm
    Southampton v Everton
    Ch105 & Ch230, 11pm
    Watford v Burnley
    Ch106 & Ch231, 11pm
    Bournemouth v West Ham
    Ch107 & Ch232, 11pm


  • TOMORROW


    Huddersfield v Man City
    Ch102 & Ch227, 9.30pm
    Fulham v Tottenham
    Ch102 & Ch227, 11.55pm
    All on Singtel TV & StarHub


The France midfielder, who has four league goals and four assists in his last five matches since being granted freedom on the pitch, added: "The way we are playing we have more possession of the ball.
"We have more of a pattern of play and more of a structure. That makes it easier for everyone."
However, not all have been beneficiaries of United's upturn in form. Both Alexis Sanchez and Romelu Lukaku are again expected to be named on the bench today.
Sanchez has made only one substitute appearance in the league while Marcus Rashford has supplanted Belgium striker Lukaku as the focal point of United's attack.
But Solskjaer feels Chilean forward Sanchez still has an important role to play in the second half of the season.
He said: "His attitude has been fantastic in training and I'm looking forward to seeing him."
Marouane Fellaini, another Mourinho favourite, has also been on the fringes, making just two substitute appearances for United during their impressive run of form.
Although he has been ruled out for up to four weeks with a calf injury, Solskjaer insisted the Belgium midfielder, who has been the subject of exit rumours in the transfer window, remains part of his immediate plans.
He said: "We all know Felli's X-factor. He'll be working hard to get back in when all the big games are coming as well."
The timing of his injury also meant Scotland midfielder Scott McTominay will unlikely be allowed to leave on loan to Celtic.
AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE, REUTERS

MAN UNITED V BRIGHTON


Singtel TV Ch103 & StarHub Ch228, 11pm


Solskjaer has won all six of his matches in charge since taking over from Jose Mourinho on December 19, and will look to keep that sequence going at Old Trafford on Saturday.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer Warns Players Against Complacency as Man


Solskjaer Warns United Players Over Complacency over from Jose Mourinho on December 19 and will look to keep that sequence going at Old Trafford on Saturday. not be complacent and take
Solskjaer warns Man Utd players over complacency


Home Sport Football Ole Gunnar Solskjaer warns Manchester Mourinho on December 19 and will look to keep that sequence going at Old Trafford on Saturday. complacent and take their foot off
Solskjaer Warns United Players Over Complacency - Channels


Dimitar Berbatov welcomed Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's appointment - but warned him he is already fighting to keep the job. Former Manchester United striker Berbatov said the hard work starts now for Solskjaer, with all the pressure that comes with managing the biggest club in the world.
Man Utd icon warns Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is already fighting


Ole Gunnar Solskjaer Warns Players Against Complacency as Man Utd Boss Eyes Seventh Straight Win " I want players to be confident but not complacent and take their foot off the pedal, because
Man Utd Dimitar Berbatov icon warns Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is


Solskjaer warns Man Utd players over complacency and will look to keep that sequence going at Old Trafford on Saturday. "I want players to be confident but
Solskjaer warns Man Utd players over complacency - pulse.ng


"The pressure is going to be huge - Ole will now be fighting to keep the job, rather than get it. I heard the argument that United were holding off appointing Solskjaer full-time to keep the players hungry, but there is no way they will take their foot off the pedal - these are top professionals and they have loads to play for."
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer warns Manchester United players over


Solskjaer warns Man Utd players over complacency and will look to keep that sequence going at Old Trafford on Saturday. "I want players to be confident but not be complacent and take their
Solskjaer warns Man Utd players over complacency | National


"I heard the argument that United were holding off appointing Solskjaer full-time to keep the players hungry, but there is no way they will take their foot off the pedal - these are top


Keep foot on pedal, warns Solskjaer. Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba has been impressive under the guidance of caretaker manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and his assistant Michael Carrick
Dimitar Berbatov Warns Ole Gunnar Solskjaer of Upcoming

Keep foot on pedal, warns Solskjaer, Football News & Top

Football: Saudi Arabia pay price for profligacy as Japan reach quarter-finals for eighth consecutive Asian Cup

Football: Saudi Arabia pay price for profligacy as Japan reach quarter-finals for eighth consecutive Asian Cup

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES (Reuters) - A first-half goal from Takehiro Tomiyasu was enough to send Japan into the Asian Cup quarter-finals for the eighth consecutive tournament after a 1-0 win over Saudi Arabia at the Sharjah Stadium on Monday (Jan 21).
The Saudis, looking to end a 23-year drought since their third continental title, paid the price for failing to convert their chances as four-time champions Samurai Blue progressed to face Vietnam on Thursday.
Japan went in front in the 20th minute when defender Tomiyasu rose above a Saudi defender in the centre of the box to head a corner into the bottom left-hand corner of the net.
Saudi Arabia dictated play in both halves, but were simply unable to finish in front of goal as the Japanese defenders put in a solid shift.
Midfielder Salem Aldawsari had a golden opportunity to put the Green Falcons level in the 62nd minute but sprayed the ball over the bar with a right-footed shot from the centre of the box.
Moments later, defender Ali Hadi Albulayhi guided the ball well over the bar with a free header after an inviting Aldawsari cross into the penalty area.
Japan, who claimed their last title in 2011, had won all three of their group-stage matches to finish top of their group, while Saudi Arabia finished second in theirs with wins over North Korea and Lebanon.



Real Madrid have knocked Manchester United off the top of Deloitte's Football Money League, but the Premier League has still flexed its financial muscle, and all of England's "Big Six
Real Madrid take top spot from Manchester United in 'money



The citizens groups are livid that despite all their lobbying for the past four years, the central government's decision on the Metro route has given their areas a miss.
Iran coach Carlos Queiroz barred from leaving country over



REIMS, France (Reuters) - Ada Hegerberg was not needed as Norway kicked off their women's World Cup Group A campaign with a comprehensive 3-0 victory over Nigeria on Saturday
Soccer: Hegerberg-less Norway canter past Nigeria | News



New-look Germany make promising start with Serbia draw Germany's new-look team made a promising return to the international stage with a 1-1 draw against Serbia in a friendly on Wednesday
New-look Germany make promising start with Serbia draw



Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola revealed he has been impressed by the impact Brendan Rodgers has made at Leicester City since his arrival from Celtic in February. The Foxes have won five of their eight league games under Rodgers since he took over from Claude Puel, including a 3-0 victory over Arsenal last time out, […]
Everton Have Impressed Me - Pep Guardiola Warns of Tough Test



JOE BERNSTEIN AT STAMFORD BRIDGE: When Jan Vertonghen gifted Chelsea their opening goal, the groans from Tottenham's dugout would have been echoed in north London and the North-West.



Two goals from in-form Marko Arnautovic and Ryan Fredericks's debut EPL helped West Ham beat Southampton 3-0 at London Stadium on Saturday to complete their first league double over the Saints since 2001. Austrian Arnautovic, who had last found the net on January 2, bagged the opener after Yan Valery misdirected a 16th-minute pass to Mark
Arnautovic ends drought as West Ham sink Saints - Cyprus Mail



Neymar has paid a visit to Brazilian football legend Pele, who has been in hospital in Paris since April 3. The Paris Saint-Germain forward posted a photo on his Instagram account on Monday of
Neymar visits recovering Pele in hospital



Soccer Football - UEFA Nations League Semi Final - Portugal v Switzerland - Estadio do Dragao, Porto, Portugal - June 5, 2019 Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates scoring their first goal REUTER
Portugal coach says Ronaldo can stay at the top for several



Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino fears Harry Kane could miss the rest of the season with an ankle injury sustained against Manchester City. The striker had to be helped down the tunnel by Spurs staff after appearing to turn his left ankle following a challenge with Fabian Delph in the second half
Harry Kane Could Be Out For The Season, Says Pochettino



Fulham boosted their Premier League survival hopes after Aleksandar Mitrovic scored a stoppage time winner to give them a 1-0 win over bottom team Huddersfield Town at Craven Cottage on Saturday.
Last-gasp Mitrovic earns Fulham win over Huddersfield



Raheem Sterling blamed "silly mistakes" for England's defeat to Netherlands in the semi-finals of the Nations League. England were beaten 3-1 in Guimaraes despite having taken a first-half lead



Moving to Norway is a desire that many people share. This post shows how to move to Norway and 30 things to know before starting your new life in Norway.The post will also give details on the various Norwegian visas that are available and how to apply for them as a citizen of various countries.
Norway - Wikipedia

Football: Mahrez strikes as Man City beat Bournemouth to go top

Football: Mahrez strikes as Man City beat Bournemouth to go top

BOURNEMOUTH, England (REUTERS) - Substitute Riyad Mahrez scored the only goal as Manchester City beat Bournemouth 1-0 at the Vitality Stadium on Saturday (March 2) to return to the top of the Premier League.
The home side showed champions City plenty of respect in the opening 45 minutes, defending deep and forcing their opponents to probe patiently for openings, and they conceded little in the way of goalscoring chances.
City manager Pep Guardiola was forced to replace the injured Kevin De Bruyne with Mahrez at halftime, and he was quickly followed by defender John Stones, who was substituted early in the second half with a thigh problem.
The visitors continued to probe and their patience finally paid off when David Silva teed up Mahrez, who lashed home a shot with his right foot to break the deadlock 10 minutes into the second half.
Bournemouth were unable to raise their game and goalkeeper Artur Boruc pulled of a number of fine saves.
He was quick off his line to thwart a breakaway attempt by Raheem Sterling and Aguero clipped the underside of the crossbar before Boruc beat away a close-range header from Mahrez.
"We made one of the best performances we have played. They were very organised, but they didn't have one shot. We created a few chances. People should understand how difficult it is to attack 11 (defending) players," Guardiola said.
Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe was disappointed to see his side's defensive efforts undone by what he termed an "ugly" goal.
"You want to be competitive and that was the way for us to make the game tight, show toughness and mentally hang in. The only frustration is their goal was ugly, which is very unlike them," he said.
The win put City top on 71 points, two ahead of Liverpool who face Everton in the Merseyside derby on Sunday. Bournemouth, who have lost four of their last five, remained 12th on 34 points.



Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur recently revealed that they are going to Singapore and Shanghai during the summer as they prepare for the 2019-20 campaign. According to the club website
Tottenham confirms Singapore stop during pre-season tour



Barca put one hand on title after edging past Sociedad Sociedad had given Barca an early fright in the corresponding fixture back in September before losing out and the Basques again held
Football: Barca put one hand on title after edging past



In the dying minutes of Iran's 3-0 defeat to Japan on Monday, striker Sardar Azmoun slapped Japan midfielder Gaku Shibasaki in the face, sparking a melee that also involved his teammates Ehsan Hajsafi and Ramin Rezaeian. Ali Motahari, deputy speaker in Iran's parliament, called for them to be disciplined.



"Premier League clubs will represent these views at the European Club Association meeting in Malta on Thursday and Friday (6 and 7 June)." Outgoing Premier League boss Richard Scudamore has previously spoken to BBC Radio 5 Live's Sportsweek to express his concerns about what such changes could do to the game.
EPL clubs opposed to European changes - straitstimes.com


Hot Spurs
Report Ad
Free UK Delivery on Eligible Orders



Norwich are promoted after beating Blackburn 2-1. Sheffield United are promoted (not mathematically but goal difference makes it impossible) after beating Ipswich 2-0. The play offs will consist of Leeds, West Brom, Aston Villa and most likely Derby but possible Bristol City or Middlesbrough instead
[EPL]Congrats to Norwich and Sheffield United for getting



Man Utd's 6-1 loss to Man City is my 'worst ever day' - Sir Alex Ferguson. 24 Oct 2011; The warning signs have been there for Manchester United in home games against Chelsea, Basle and even



Manchester United vs Watford highlights and reaction as Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford score. Man Utd beat Watford in Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's first game in charge as permanent manager with
Football: Solskjaer unimpressed as 'sloppy' United avoid



Soccer Football - Premier League - Liverpool v AFC Bournemouth - Anfield, Liverpool, Britain - February 9, 2019 Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp celebrates after the match REUTERS/Phil Noble
Football: Liverpool back on top after 3-0 win over Bournemouth



Premier League: Jorginho fires Chelsea as recalled Kepa Arrizabalaga shines Description: Eden Hazard was the catalyst with an incisive run into the Fulham area, the Belgian laying the ball back to the Jorginho, who guided a superb strike into the top corner from 18 yards.
Premier League: Jorginho fires Chelsea as recalled Kepa



England's Ross Barkley scores their second goal during Euro 2020 Group A qualifier match between Montenegro and England at Podgorica City Stadium, Podgorica, Montenegro, March 25, 2019. England recovered from an early scare in Montenegro as Ross Barkley scored twice in a clinical 5-1 victory to continue their strong start to the Euro 2020
England thrash Montenegro 5-1 after early scare - YouTube



'Expired' Molde deal to ease way for Solskjaer Related Story Football: Solskjaer has restored United's culture and identity, says former treble teammate Schmeichel
Solskjaer confirms his contract in Norway has expired

Football: British rescuers end search for missing plane carrying soccer player Sala

Football: British rescuers end search for missing plane carrying soccer player Sala

LONDON (REUTERS) - Rescuers ended their search on Thursday (Jan 24) for the plane carrying Premier League soccer player Emiliano Sala, which disappeared over the English Channel three days ago, after saying there was little chance anyone aboard had survived.
Sala, Cardiff City's new signing, and the plane's pilot, David Ibbotson, have been missing since Monday night.
Rescuers have scoured over 4,000 sq km but have found no trace of the aircraft or those on board.
"We reviewed all the information available to us, as well as knowing what emergency equipment was on board, and have taken the difficult decision to end the search," Guernsey Harbour Master Captain David Barker said in a statement.
"Next of kin have been informed of this development, and my thoughts go out to the family of the pilot and passenger at this most difficult of times."
Cardiff owner Vincent Tan said in a statement that everyone at the club would continue to pray for Sala, Ibbotson and their families.
"Monday evening's news shook everyone at Cardiff City FC to the core," he added.
"We were looking forward to providing Emiliano with the next step in his life and career.
"Those who met Emiliano described a good-natured and humble young man who was eager to impress in the Premier League.
"The response from the football community has been truly touching and we place on record our sincere thanks to those who have sent messages of support."

 
 
After the plane disappeared, a recording emerged of a fearful voice message Sala apparently sent in which he expressed concern about the single-engine Piper Malibu aircraft he was flying in.
The 28-year-old Argentina-born forward was en route from Nantes in western France to make his debut for Welsh team Cardiff City.
Barker said the search had involved 80 hours combined flying time by three planes and five helicopters, with two lifeboats and other ships in the area also helping.
"Although we are no longer actively searching, the incident remains open and we will be broadcasting to all vessels and aircraft in the area to keep a look out for any trace of the aircraft. This will continue indefinitely," he said.


Rescuers ended their search on Thursday for the plane carrying Premier League soccer player Emiliano Sala, which disappeared over the English Channel three days ago, after saying there was little
Football: British rescuers end search for missing plane

UK rescuers end search for missing plane carrying soccer


LONDON (REUTERS) - Rescuers ended their search on Thursday (Jan 24) for the plane carrying Premier League soccer player Emiliano Sala, which disappeared over the English Channel three days ago
UK Rescuers End Search for Missing Plane Carrying Soccer


LONDON: Rescuers ended their search on Thursday (Jan 24) for the plane carrying Premier League football player Emiliano Sala, which disappeared over the English Channel three days ago, after
Football Extras: Rescuers end search for missing plane


Tributes left outside Cardiff City Stadium for Emiliano Sala, January 23, 2019. UK rescuers end search for missing plane carrying soccer player Sala. Soccer Football - Cardiff City


Rescuers ended their search, on Thursday, for the plane carrying Premier League soccer player Emiliano Sala, which disappeared over the English Channel three days ago, after saying there was
UK rescuers end search for missing plane carrying soccer


LONDON (Reuters) - Rescuers ended their search on Thursday for the plane carrying Premier League soccer player Emiliano Sala, which disappeared over the English Channel three days ago, after saying there was little chance anyone aboard had survived. Sala, Cardiff City's new signing, and the plane's
Rescuers end search for plane carrying missing soccer star


Rescuers said on Thursday they had ended the search for the plane carrying Premier League player Emiliano Sala which disappeared over the English Channel three days ago, adding the chances of
UK rescuers end search for missing plane carrying soccer


LONDON (Reuters) - Rescuers ended their search on Thursday for the plane carrying Premier League soccer player Emiliano Sala, which disappeared over the English Channel three days ago, after
Football: Rescuers end search for missing plane carrying Sala


Rescuers ended their search on Thursday for the plane carrying Premier League soccer player Emiliano Sala, which disappeared over the English Channel three days ago, after saying there was little
Rescuers end search for missing plane carrying football


Rescuers ended their search on Thursday for the plane carrying Premier League football player Emiliano Sala, which disappeared over the English Channel three days ago, after saying there was little chance anyone aboard had survived.
Football news - Rescuers end search for missing plane

United will attack PSG, vows Solskjaer

United will attack PSG, vows Solskjaer

LONDON • Ole Gunnar Solskjaer further endeared himself to the Old Trafford faithful after confirming Manchester United would stay true to their attacking ethos and not sit back ahead of the first leg of their Champions League last-16 meeting against Paris Saint-Germain today.
British media reports have indicated that the interim manager will land the job on a permanent basis in the summer after engineering a run of 10 wins in their past 11 games since replacing the sacked Jose Mourinho in December.
But Solskjaer brushed off the speculation, which will surely hit fever pitch should the Red Devils get past a PSG side shorn of Neymar and Edinson Cavani - claiming there were still a "few more months for me to do whatever I can do for the club".
At his pre-match press conference yesterday, he was brimming with confidence as he declared: "If ever there was a time for us to play big games, it's now."
Asked if he had any inkling he would be in the dugout when the last-16 draw was made in December, he said: "Of course, I didn't know. I was watching it with my son Noah and said, 'Wow that is a tough challenge'. But we have given ourselves the best possible opportunity in the way we have gone into tomorrow's game.
"When Manchester United ring and ask you to help, you say yes. The Champions League is a fantastic tournament. It is a test for our whole team.
"I have loved every single minute of it. We knew we had a big challenge in front of us because we were far behind in the league, confidence was low after Liverpool, but they have responded fantastically.
"I don't think we could be in a better frame of mind and looking forward to the next few games.
"We are confident. We have found what team we have, we are looking like a team, and we are agreeing on how we should approach games."
France forward Anthony Martial, who sat alongside the manager, agreed it was "easier to play this style of football compared to (the) previous style we were asked to play" in a dig at Mourinho.
Solskjaer warned his opposite number Thomas Tuchel that when United "are on song, not many teams enjoy their nights at Old Trafford", he also revealed the plan to take the game to the opposition.
He added: "It's about always believing in yourself. If you asked other managers who played against Sir Alex (Ferguson's) teams, the pace and the tempo going forward were key.
"I have three good forwards (Marcus Rashford, Anthony Martial and Romelu Lukaku), as well as (Alexis) Sanchez and (Jesse) Lingard. They can challenge PSG's defence."

THE GOOD OLE UNITED WAY
It's about always believing in yourself. If you asked other managers who played against Sir Alex (Ferguson's) teams, the pace and the tempo going forward were key. I have three good forwards myself. They can challenge PSG's defence.
OLE GUNNAR SOLSKJAER, Manchester United interim manager, confident that his rejuvenated side can pose a real threat to Paris Saint-Germain in their Champions League last-16 clash.

While his managerial record in domestic competitions with United stands up to scrutiny, this will be his first test against elite European competition.
But he remains far from cowed at playing under the floodlights.
Recalling how "the biggest nights of my career have been Champions League nights", the 45-year-old, who scored the winner in the 1999 final which helped the club secure the treble, said: "Both the supporters and players have been looking forward to a night like this because they have always been special."
Solskjaer also dismissed suggestions that a PSG side without Cavani, Neymar and Thomas Meunier would be there for the taking, insisting it made them "more unpredictable".
He added: "Any team that are missing players will feel the effect, but that will give the others the chance."
REUTERS


MAN UNITED V PSG


Singtel TV Ch110 & StarHub Ch214, tomorrow, 3.55am


A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on February 12, 2019, with the headline 'United will attack PSG, vows Solskjaer'. Print Edition | Subscribe.
United will attack PSG, vows Solskjaer - theworldnews.net

United will attack PSG, vows Solskjaer, Football News & Top


United will attack PSG, vows Solskjaer LONDON • Ole Gunnar Solskjaer further endeared himself to the Old Trafford faithful after confirming Manchester United would stay true to their attacking ethos and not sit back ahead of the first leg of their Champions League last-16 meeting against Paris Saint-Germain today.
United will attack Spurs, vows Lingard | FourFourTwo


Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has promised Manchester United will go on the attack against Paris Saint-Germain in a bid to qualify for the Champions League quarterfinals. PSG outplayed United 2-0 at Old Trafford last month to take complete control of their last-16 tie and Solskjaer's side will be without inspirational midfielder Paul Pogba due to
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer tells Manchester United to go all out on


Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has vowed to sign the right players for the club when the transfer window reopens in the summer. Solskjaer made this known during his pre-match press conference ahead of the weekend's game in the Premier League.


Ole Gunnar Solskjaer tells Manchester United to go all out on the attack against PSG Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has put the smile back on the face of Manchester United since he took over from Jose Mourinho.
United will attack Spurs, vows Lingard - sportsmax.tv


United will attack Spurs, vows Lingard brand of football under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer when they travel to Tottenham on Sunday. Paris Saint-Germain ended the
United will attack Spurs, vows Lingard - Soccer News


Solskjaer vows to make Man Utd players run faster and further despite injury crisis OLE GUNNAR SOLSKJAER says his Manchester United regime will be a survival of the fittest — despite his
Solskjaer Vows To Sign Right Players For Man Utd - Thewistle


Manchester United will look to entertain at Wembley as they face their toughest test since Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's appointment against Spurs. United will attack Spurs, vows Lingard | FourFourTwo
Champions League: Solskjaer promises to attack PSG - Sportstar


Jesse Lingard says Manchester United intend to continue their entertaining brand of football under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer when they travel to Tottenham on Sunday. United have been reinvigorated since Solskjaer replaced Jose Mourinho last month, winning all five of the Norwegian's matches in league and cup, scoring 16 goals in the process.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to go all out attack against Paris Saint


Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to go all out attack against Paris Saint-Germain. Goal. Sooraj Kamath. 09 What does Ole Gunnar Solskjaer need to do to overturn the tie? United will have to keep a
Solskjaer vows to make Utd players run faster and further

Real fledglings face off against Ajax's talented young guns

Real fledglings face off against Ajax's talented young guns

AMSTERDAM • Real Madrid against Ajax would typically be a clash of stars against prodigies but, when they face each other in the first leg of the Champions League last-16 tie today, the difference will be harder to distinguish.
Ajax will parade their latest crop of young gems at the Johan Cruyff Arena, where Frenkie de Jong and Matthijs de Ligt will attempt to live up to already-swelling reputations while the likes of Donny van de Beek, Andre Onana and Kasper Dolberg could also enhance theirs.
For Real, Gareth Bale aside, the Galacticos are gone and are replaced by a handful of prospects trying to forge their way through.
Real coach Santiago Solari, whose predecessors Zinedine Zidane and Julen Lopetegui both used young players only when they had to, has made youth his first choice since being tasked with rejuvenating his team in November.
Vinicius Junior has had less playing time than Ajax's de Jong, with only six starts in LaLiga and one in the Champions League, but the Brazilian's impact has been arguably just as dramatic as the Dutchman.
Signed last summer for €45 million (S$69 million), Vinicius was supposed to spend his debut season settling in with the reserve side, a strategy adhered to perhaps too rigidly by Lopetegui.
Solari, in charge of Real Madrid B at the time, was the coach that received him, witnessing first-hand as the 18-year-old scored twice against Atletico B, curled in a free-kick against Unionistas and equalised against Celta Vigo B.
Vinicius was raw but, when Lopetegui was sacked, Solari had greater legitimacy to promote him.
He had faith too. Solari gave Vinicius 90 minutes in his first match in charge, more than Lopetegui had in all 14 of his.
Almost four months on, Vinicius has 22 appearances for the first team, the latest pair against Barcelona at the Nou Camp and Atletico Madrid at the Wanda Metropolitano. In both, he was Real's greatest threat, to the extent that even Bale's starting spot has been questioned.
"His adaptation has been very fast," Solari said. "He is 18 and he has adapted to a new country, a new culture, a different type of football. He has shown his talent, but we have to take care of him."
Vinicius is the poster boy of Solari's meritocracy, an approach that puts reputation far below humility and hard work.
Among the other fresh faces to come in are Spaniard Sergio Reguilon at left-back, Marcos Llorente in defensive midfield, and midfielder Dani Ceballos. Together, Vinicius, Reguilon, Llorente and Ceballos have played 64 games since Solari was appointed.
"They are the future of Real Madrid," Solari said. "Therefore, they have to be part of the present."
AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE

AJAX V REAL MADRID


Singtel TV Ch112 & StarHub Ch213, tomorrow, 3.55am


Football: Tributes pour in for Stoke's England World Cup



Jurgen Klopp has confirmed Virgil van Dijk is a doubt for Liverpool's Premier League game at home to Leicester City. Van Dijk has started all 23 league games for the Reds this season, winning December's Premier League player of the month award, but illness could rule him out of Wednesday's visit of the Foxes.



Barcelona president Josep Bartomeu has said he plans to offer Lionel Messi a new contract in the hope the Argentinian will stay at the club his whole career. Messi's current deal runs until 2021
Want Messi To Always Be At Barca - Barcelona President Opens



Also, Icelandic governmental officials provided logistical and other support, in particular, Mr. Steingnmur Hermannsson, Director, Icelandic National Research Council and Professor Magnus Magnusson, Director, University of Iceland Science Institute. Iceland as a Model for Chemical Alteration on Mars. NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Wow air issue 5 13 by WOW_air - Issuu


Makeshift Barca side beaten at Celta and lose Dembele to



Juventus Win Eighth Consecutive Serie A Title. celebrates with teammates after Fiorentina scored an own goal following his shot during the Italian Serie A football match Juventus vs Fiorentina
Juventus crowned Serie A champions as Cristiano Ronaldo makes



Adam Swandi became the first Singaporean to win a local domestic title in more than two years on Saturday but his thoughts immediately shifted to the next Albirex Niigata (S) training session
S.League: Predictions for the new season | FOX Sports Asia



Tampines Rovers FC will host Hougang United in an exciting AIA Singapore Premier League clash at the Tampines Stadium on Sunday. Tampines are fourth in the Singapore Premier League standings
Tampines Rovers - Results, Match Fixtures and Statistics in



(Reuters) - Tottenham Hotspur forward Son Heung-min wanted a transfer back to Germany after struggling in his debut season at the Premier League club but stayed put after a conversation with manager Mauricio Pochettino, the South Korea international has said. Son moved to Tottenham from Bayer



chelsea Chelsea hold on against Brighton to consolidate top four EPL spot. Chelsea moved three points clear of London rivals Arsenal, who were beaten at Southampton.
Chelsea hold on against Brighton to consolidate top four spot



Portugal coach says Ronaldo can stay at the top for several years there indeed seems no reason why he cannot keep going for several years, especially as he has already shown he can adapt his
Cristiano Ronaldo can stay at the top for several years, says



You'll Never Walk Alone is perhaps the most famous song in football, and is heard before kick-off at every Liverpool match at Anfield.. It has travelled around the world as the Reds have toured



Ikhsan Fandi signs a two-year deal with Norway second-tier club Raufoss IL to become first Lion in 30 years to join a European team, and the third after his father Fandi Ahmad and V. Sundram Moorthy.
Football: Singapore striker Ikhsan Fandi signs contract with



Feb 15, 2018 · Editorial: Ban California kids from playing Pop Warner football A good case can even be made that tackle football should be banned at all public schools. New H-2B publication rules would
The ban on Iranian women attending men's soccer matches has



Ajax Amsterdam took a massive stride towards a first Champions League final for 23 years as Donny van de Beek's early goal earned a 1-0 win at Tottenham Hotspur in the first leg of their semifinal
Van de Beek gives Ajax edge over Tottenham in Champions

Football: Young Lions beaten, but not discouraged, after SPL loss to Home United

Football: Young Lions beaten, but not discouraged, after SPL loss to Home United

SINGAPORE - They gave as good as they got, but the Young Lions fell short as they lost 2-1 to Home United at the Bishan Stadium on Saturday (April 6).
Coach Fandi Ahmad said he was satisfied by another gallant display by his youngsters against a side tipped to challenge for the Singapore Premier League (SPL) title, and felt they deserved at least a point.
"I'm happy with the commitment, discipline, and how the boys tried very hard till the end," he said. "Home settled down and did very well to control the game with their experienced players, but both sides had chances and we should not have lost."
Home skipper Izzdin Shafiq put his side in the front after just six minutes with a fine curling effort from outside the box.
But the strike was cancelled out by Young Lions captain Joshua Pereira, who rose at the back post to send a thumping header beyond goalkeeper Nazri Sabri.
Home restored their lead five minutes before half-time, however, when Australian striker Ollie Puflett's cutback found Adam Swandi, who scored from close range.
Fandi said he felt Puflett was offside: "Our defender needed to follow (Puflett) even though he was offside. Sometimes our boys make the mistake of waiting for the linesman to flag or referee to blow, so it's very frustrating."
Where previous Young Lions sides might have crumbled from conceding a morale-sapping goal just before the break, Fandi's charges kept plugging away.
They went close twice late in the game. First, left wingback Nur Luqman dribbled past two defenders only to fire into the side netting. Then, forward Haiqal Pashia saw his shot from distance go inches wide, with Nazri stranded.
Home could have added a bit of gloss to their win, but Aqhari Abdullah saw his shot come off the upright after he was played through on goal by South Korean teammate Song Ui-Yong.
Fandi said the challenge for him and his coaching team was to keep his charges' level of performance up. He added: "We have told (the players) that whether the result comes or not, does not matter, and the main thing is to maintain the playing style, standard and intensity.
"We want to see it game-in, game-out, and we have been consistent since (last month's AFC Under-23 Championships qualifiers where Singapore finished second in a group comprising North Korea, Hong Kong and Mongolia).
"But we are still making one or two little mistakes and they cannot happen all the time, because some teams will punish you."
For Home, the win was their third in seven days. They had beaten Warriors FC 3-0 in the SPL last Saturday and then Laotian domestic champions Lao Toyota 1-0 in the AFC Cup on Tuesday.
Coach Saswadimata Dasuki said: "We had a difficult time earlier in the season (with consecutive heavy losses to Tampines Rovers in the SPL and Philippine side Kaya FC in the AFC Cup) but the team kept believing."
In Saturday's other game, two late goals helped Albirex Niigata beat Balestier Khalsa 2-1 at the Jurong East Stadium, for the defending champions' first win of the season after four games.


Sichuan Jiuniu, its latest addition, are based in the western Chinese metropolis of Chengdu, and play their home games at the Chengdu Longquanyi Football Stadium. Chinese football was buoyed by an influx of funds and foreign stars after President Xi Jinping, who visited Manchester City in 2015, outlined ambitions to turn the world's most
Feisty encounter expected between Home United and Young Lions


Singapore Football Young Lions beaten but impress new coach STREAK ENDS: Hougang United's (in green) win over the Courts Young Lions (in red), is their first since May 2013.


Football: Young Lions beaten, but not discouraged, after SPL loss to Home United Young Lions' Joshua Pereira (right) reacts after scoring a goal against Home United in the Singapore Premier
Kaya v Lao Toyota - spreaker.com


Football: Young Lions beaten, but not discouraged, after SPL loss to April 6, 2019 Christie Brinkley's daughter Sailor Brinkley Cook stuns in purple string bikini
Young Lions beaten but impress new coach - tnp.sg


Kaya v Lao Toyota - MATCH DETAILS: Location : Upcoming Information:AFC Cup 30.04.2019
Football: Guardiola tips City as comeback 'heroes'


The last encounter between Home United and Young Lions was a feisty affair that ended on a sour note. Will there be more of the same when they clash this Wednesday in the SPL? Having let slip two
Shawal strikes for Geylang to make it seven SPL defeats for


Shawal strikes for Geylang to make it seven SPL defeats for Young Lions Young Lions will face Home United FC a week later at Bishan Stadium while the Eagles get a short three-day break before
SPL - 10/21 - Shanghai Lions Football Club
shanghai-lions.com/category/spl/page/10/
In the first half the youngster were a bit afraid especially because the seniors took an early lead but the managed to score a goal back thru Thai Striker Bank, 3-1 at half time and in the second half the young Lions played good football and proved not to be a walk over.
Football Association of Singapore - spl.sg
spl.sg/singapore-premier-league-week-1-roundup/
- Young Lions have not beaten Balestier in any of their last nine encounters now, drawing one of those. - Huzaifah Aziz has now scored against Young Lions in each of Balestier's last three trips to Jalan Besar. - This is Balestier's first opening league win since 2010 (2-1 vs Hougang), having lost each of their last four.
Daily roundup: Chinese teen told adoptive father is prime

Football: Young Lions beaten, but not discouraged, after SPL


Football: Impressive Burnley fight back to beat Bournemouth 3-1 0:0 Comments Football: Vardy double gives Leicester comfortable 4-1 win at Huddersfield 0:0 Comments Football: Recovering Pele set to return to Brazil on Monday, says adviser 0:0 Comments Football: Young Lions beaten, but not discouraged, after SPL loss to Home United 0:0 Comments
Football: Manchester City owners team with robot-makers to

Football: Jardim replaces Henry as Monaco coach, three months after sacking

Football: Jardim replaces Henry as Monaco coach, three months after sacking

MONTE CARLO, Principality of Monaco (AFP) - Leonardo Jardim returned for a second spell as Monaco coach on Friday (Jan 25), just over three months after he was sacked, the struggling French Ligue 1 club announced.
Jardim replaces Thierry Henry who was suspended on Thursday and then sacked on Friday with the team second-from-bottom in the French top division with just 15 points.
Portuguese coach Jardim, 41, has signed a deal until June 2021 and will take charge of the team for Tuesday's League Cup clash against Guingamp.
Monaco chief executive Vadim Vasilyev said that it had been a mistake to sack Jardim after 2-1 home defeat to Rennes on Oct 7 last year.
His departure, however, would have been comfortably cushioned by a reported 8.5 million euro pay-off.
"Today, we realise that the story of Leonardo Jardim at the club did not end as it was meant to. Leonardo should have been given an opportunity to continue his job," admitted Vasilyev.
Jardim joined Monaco in 2014 and took them to a first Ligue 1 title in 17 years in 2017. They also made the Champions League semi-finals.
"Our club is going through a very challenging period. I am ready to admit that I personally bear the responsibility for this," added Vasilyev.
"We have to acknowledge that during the summer transfer window, we sold too many key players and, despite considerable investments, mistakes were made with respect to their replacement.
"This did not allow us to create a new, competitive team. The decision to dismiss Leonardo Jardim was also premature."
Former Arsenal and France striker Henry earned the Principality club just two league wins since his arrival in October.
However, his departure will not come cheap.
'BAD INTENTIONS'
He was reported to be earning an estimated €3.2 million (S$4.9 million) a year. With two and a half years still left on his contract, Monaco's owners face having to pay out another eight million as compensation.
"Thierry Henry is a football legend but due to a very unfavourable mix of circumstances, including, above all, numerous injuries to our players, hampered him from quickly and effectively leading the team out of the crisis," said Vasilyev.
Henry took over a team who were in the bottom three after just one win in their opening nine Ligue 1 games and already struggling in the Champions League.
For all the undoubted quality in Monaco's squad, too many players were unavailable due to injuries.
Henry pointed the finger at poor pre-season preparations under Jardim, and there were still a dozen players in the treatment room last weekend.
However, in an interview with L'Equipe this week Jardim hit back at criticism of the squad's fitness under his watch.
"That is an excuse from people with bad intentions. Either that or they understand nothing about football," he said.
"You need no more than a month to correct a team's physical preparation."
Franck Passi will be in charge of the team for the weekend clash against Dijon.



Spurs look like they will be without star Moussa Sissoko for their Champions League clashes with Ajax Credit: Reuters. That means he will definitely miss the home leg against the Dutch giants next
Spurs' Sissoko likely to miss Ajax opener | Free Malaysia Today



China strips South Korea of football trophy for 'indecent' celebrations South Korea's under-18 team apologised to "all the people in China" after a picture emerged of a player with his foot on the
China strips South Korea of football trophy for 'indecent



Captain Tim Paine expressed his relief after Australia beat India in the second Test to level the series at 1-1. Having lost in Adelaide, the Baggy Greens hit back in Perth to record a 146-run triumph and ensure there is everything to play for when the battle is resumed in the Boxing Day Test at Melbourne.
Post-scandal Australia 'grit' hailed after 'best win' for



Copa del Rey: Valencia to face Barcelona in final after seeing off Real Betis Valencia, who lifted the trophy on their last appearance in the showpiece match in 2008, will meet 30-times winners Barca in the final on May 25 at Betis' Benito Villamarin stadium.
Football news - Valencia to face Barcelona in Copa del Rey



A clinical Barcelona beat Real Madrid 3-0 away in an intense Copa del Rey semi-final, second leg on Wednesday as a Luis Suarez double helped them secure a 4-1 aggregate victory and a spot in the
R Madrid 0 - 3 Barcelona - Match Report & Highlights



Everton drop to fifth after Liverpool's 2-0 win against Hull City at Anfield, but Baines still feels the Toffees are in good shape at the start of the new year.
Everton vs Swansea: Instant Reaction | Easy in the end for



Soccer Football - Premier League - Cardiff City v Manchester United - Cardiff City Stadium, Cardiff, Britain - December 22, 2018 Manchester United's Jesse Lingard celebrates scoring their fifth goal
Solskjaer makes dream start as Man Utd thrash Cardiff



Jul 11, 2018 · These have been strange weeks in England, weeks when it has been easy to fall in love in a nobody to blame, no need for a scapegoat or an effigy. getting onto the feet or heads of Croatian
Valley News - Forum, May 24: ISO New England's Study Was Flawed



Lure of Italy strong, says Chelsea's homesick Maurizio Sarri Thursday, 6 June 2019 ( 2 days ago ) Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri gave the strongest hint yet that he wishes to return to Italy and probably take the Juventus job by saying he misses his friends and elderly parents.



Qatar has stunned Japan and the football world to win a historic Asian Cup crown. Football world in shock over insane Asian Cup boilover. North Korea, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, South Korea, the
2019 Asian Cup: Son aims to continue golden period with South



British crash investigators have launched an underwater operation to recover a body from the wreckage of the plane carrying Argentine UK rescuers launch bid to recover body from Sala's plane.
UK rescuers launch bid to recover body from Sala's plane



Jamie Redknapp and Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink have slammed the decision not to award Derby a free-kick prior to Chelsea's winner in the Carabao Cup. Chelsea narrowly overcame Derby 3-2 to progress to
Chelsea transfers: the 10 best and 10 worst Premier League