Newcastle are considering another attempt to sign Andy Carroll after West Ham agreed a fee to take him on loan, The Daily Mail report.
The Liverpool forward is not part of Brendan Rodgers’ plans and after the purchase of Fabio Borini the England international is thought to be allowed to leave Anfield if a potential suitor arises.
The Hammers are eager to strengthen their attacking options ahead of the their Premier League return, and as such have agreed a £2 million loan fee with the Reds for a season-long deal.
Carroll will then be subject to a £17 million permanent deal to Upton Park next summer should Sam Allardyce’s men stay in the top flight.
However, Carroll is believed to prefer a move back to his former club, who are ready to enter into the bidding and secure a deal for him in forthcoming days.
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
Manchester United’s in-form striker Wayne Rooney has spoken of his ambitions to win the Champions League this season, and has praised the English side’s conquerers from last year’s final, Barcelona.
The England international forward has started the 2011-12 in blistering form, and scored his second hat-trick of the season against Bolton on Saturday.
Ahead of the Premier League champions’ first European fixture of 2011-12 in midweek, Rooney has looked back at the Champions League final last season, a 3-1 defeat at the hands of the Catalan giants.
“It was nice to score but it means nothing. It is not a goal I will always look back on and remember. We lost the game, so I don’t want to think about it too much. It just goes to the back of my mind. I want to help us win games,” he told MUTV.
Barcelona will again be the team to beat his season, and Rooney agrees that United were not good enough to beat the Spanish side last term.
“It’s a fair thing to say. They are so difficult to play against. They have their midfield, then the forwards tuck in, so they outnumber you.
“It is hard to get the ball off them and when you do, you are tired from chasing around. We have to try and learn from the experience and believe, if we get there again, we will be better off for it.
“You have to applaud them for the way they played. They are a great team to watch. The aim for us is to reach that level over the next few years,” he concluded.
United have a tricky away fixture in Portugal on Wednesday in their first group stage match, as they travel to the Estadio da Luz to take on Benfica.
[divider]
Fancy a Premier League Box Experience? Click on banner below to find out more
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
Gerard Houllier believes Aston Villa signing Darren Bent can meet expectations after scoring the winner against Manchester City on debut.
Bent immediately endeared himself to his new manager and fans after Ashley Young’s shot was palmed into his path 18 minutes in to Saturday’s clash at Villa Park, leaving the 26-year-old to prod home from close range.
England striker Bent – who already counts Ipswich, Charlton and Tottenham among his former clubs – joined Villa from English Premier League rivals Sunderland on January 3 in an 18-million-pound deal that could rise to 24 million.
The win moved Villa to 16th on the table and made for a delighted Houllier post-match, with special praise reserved for his new man.
“(Bent’s) finish was that of a natural-born finisher, something you cannot teach somebody. That is what he is here for, to score goals,” Houllier told Sky Sports.
“Roberto Mancini told me before the game that I’d signed a great player and that is a tremendous start for him.”
“I thought the boy handled the pressure very well. He had settled in well during the week, knows a lot of players from the international scene, and I felt he was ready to play.”
The win means City sink from second to third on the Premier League table, with table-toppers and city rivals Manchester United now three points and goal difference ahead.
But a top-four finish was the club’s pre-season goal, and City assistant Brian Kidd believes achieving that target, at least, is on track.
“We can only influence what we do, we can’t depend on other teams,” Kidd said.
“The boss has always said since he’s been here; we work hard and look to improve. We lost against Everton and the response was very, very good and no doubt the boys will respond in the right manner in the coming games.”
“It’s a blip, that’ll happen. Manchester United are going very well, they’re undefeated but personally I’ve always thought it’s Man United’s to lose many, many weeks ago. We can only influence what we can do. We’re obviously disappointed but that’s it now. It’s history, we put it behind us and we’ll work again. The boys will be in tomorrow training, so we work tomorrow morning.”
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
Kidd also hinted new striker Edin Dzeko – signed for 27 million pounds from Bundesliga outfit Wolfsburg on January 3 – would be given time to find his feet at the club.
“Edin’s a terrific talent, a great talent. The Premier League, which he fully understands, is a demanding league, and as you’ve seen today he’s come up against a back four of centre halves, with young Ciaran Clarke as well at left-back and (Carlos) Cuellar and (James) Collins and Dunny (Richard Dunne).”
“But there’s no doubt about it, I don’t think he’s played for thirty plus, forty days, so once he gets in the swing of things there won’t be a doubt with him. He’s a talented lad.”
Martin O’Neill and his Sunderland cohorts jetted off to South Korea on Monday to compete in the Peace Cup as part of their preparations for next season. Such exotic preseason destinations are not something the Black Cats faithful are used to having become more accustomed to tours of Great Britain and Ireland but the club’s rising stature as an established Premier League side means they now have much higher standards.
It’s an ambition that former Chairman Niall Quinn, followed by owner Ellis Short, have been championing as they attempt to promote the club’s image but fan’s concerns appear to be far closer to home. While no supporter is naive enough to turn their nose up at increased revenue streams and global branding, many are far more eager for their beloved club to prioritise new signings than new sponsors. It’s certainly a delicate balancing act for the men in charge but it would seem as though Sunderland are trying to run before they can walk as they look to further their worldwide appeal before improving their playing staff. As it stands, Carlos Cuelllar is the only permanent signing made by O’Neill during his 8 months in charge and the Northern Irishman has suggested little will be done before they return from Asia next week.
Not exactly the news fans wanted to hear as they sift through endless pages of speculation in the hope of seeing some fresh faces. It’s no secret the club needs at least two strikers, a winger and some new fullbacks but many believe the majority of their first team are no better than squad players. With so much expected of O’Neill’s first full season in charge, the frustration in the North East is palpable given their continuing lack of transfer action. Sunderland’s league form towards the end of last season left many with a bitter taste in the mouth as it concluded a campaign that had petered out after O’Neill’s initial impact recovered Steve Bruce’s early failings. A 13th place League finish ultimately represented a step backwards in the club’s progression and yet they’ve sidestepped further investment to embark on their Korean tour without even taking key attraction Ji Dong-Won. The striker’s Olympic commitments cannot be helped but his presence was supposed to be the main reason why the club chose to compete in the tournament and it’s another signal of where their priorities lie as many believe they need to concentrate on improving the first team before they swan off around the world.
Not only are fans disappointed at having to wait another week or two, they also know how little time there is to blend any new players into the squad. The tour should’ve been the perfect opportunity but instead their youth team have been called upon, complimented by a handful of senior stars. Despite it being a useful training exercise, there’s also a £2m prize for the winners which Sunderland’s weakened squad is unlikely to bring home and this has further called into the question the merits of such a far flung tour. While some are prepared to be patient and trust O’Neill’s judgement, the manager’s coy approach to transfer targets means there is little concrete evidence that Sunderland are chasing anybody. Last season Bruce started early when bringing in over ten new recruits to the Stadium of Light and while a repeat of such an influx is not expected, some feel that other more active clubs are stealing a march in their quest for talent. The likes of QPR and Fulham have snapped up players many feel would’ve graced the Stadium of Light and while rivals Newcastle are targeting European stars, Sunderland fans have only an overpriced £10m+ move for Wolves’ Steven Fletcher to read about on daily repeat.
It’s not a situation that fans envisaged when Short insisted he would back O’Neill to invest in the squad but in his defence, the Texan billionaire also said they would be targeting quality not quantity. While many are desperate for new faces, the prospect of signing a player like Fletcher for £12-15m just to get him over the line quickly is not preferable to delaying a month and signing him for £8-10m. It’s a risky waiting game that may mean some of the Black Cats’ targets are snapped up by their bigger spending rivals but it certainly appears to be a logical approach from a side looking to maintain financial stability while competing at the highest level. Excuses made regarding last season’s woeful start to the season were pointed towards so many new players taking time to adjust and while such concerns will not be as prevalent this time around, many still feel it would be sensible to sign players as soon as possible so they have more time to prepare.
So far Sunderland are lagging behind in the transfer race but it’s a marathon, not a sprint and judgement should be reserved until fans have seen the team that crosses the deadline day finishing line before they criticise the club’s patient albeit procrastinatory approach.
Do you think Sunderland are right to bide their time in the transfer market? Should O’Neill be looking to sign players quickly so they have more time to adjust ?
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
Let me know your views and opinions by following me on Twitter – Tweet me @Alex_Churcher
Arsene Wenger has claimed out-of-favour striker Nicklas Bendtner could stay at Arsenal Sky Sports understands.
The Gunners boss made the Danish international available for transfer this summer after becoming tired of his inconsistent performances.
Bendtner has also stated his desire to leave the Emirates Stadium to join a side where he is guaranteed a starting berth which will be harder to come by at Arsenal with Robin Van Persie, Marouane Chamakh and Gervinho in front of him.
However the French boss hasn’t ruled out the chance of the 23-year-old remaining in North London.
“In his interview Bendtner said he was gone. But I checked, and he’s not gone at all!” Wenger said.
“I promised I’d let him go if he found the right club and that hasn’t changed. When I make a promise, I keep it.
“But if he doesn’t find the right opportunity, he’ll stay and fight for his place like everybody else. He looks sharp in training.”
Interest is thought to be high with Premier League rivals Newcastle, Stoke and Sunderland all interested in securing his services.
Bendtner also has suitors from abroad with Sporting Lisbon and Borussia Dortmund also keeping tabs on his situation.
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
However in light of Wenger’s comments it looks like the striker could be sticking around at the Emirates for at least another season with no firm bid received from any of his potential suitors.
Despite the shock transfer of Darren Bent it is fair to say that the January transfer window has been somewhat a tame affair, as many Premier League clubs are seemingly being careful with their finances. In some cases clubs simply have to sell before they can buy, much to the frustrations, no doubt, of many managers and supporters.
The lack of spending at the top of the Premier League has surprised many, especially given the open nature of this title race, not to mention the open fight to stay in the Premier League; however with clubs biding their time in the transfer market it appears that there could well be the deadline day circus that we have become accustomed to in past January windows.
The media clearly believe that a transfer storm is set to erupt in the final few days of the window, but it begs the question as to whether Sir Alex will partake in some last minute shopping.
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
Does Ferguson need to bring any players in before the transfer window shuts next Monday and if so who would you like to see him bring in?
Louis Saha believes Laurent Blanc would be an excellent replacement for former manager Harry Redknapp if Tottenham choose to pursue the Frenchman this summer.
The France coach is thought to be on Spurs chairman Daniel Levy’s wish list after transforming Ligue 1 side Girondins de Bordeaux and impressing at International level. Having led France on a 23 match unbeaten run before losing to Sweden in their final group game, the 46 year old is now preparing his team for a quarterfinal clash with World and European champions Spain on Saturday.
It is thought discussions with Blanc and his representatives will begin once France’s Euro 2012 campaign has concluded but there is interest in former Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas as well. Reports suggest no decision will be made until the club have spoken to all their various candidates but Saha insists Blanc is more than capable of filling the White Lane Hart hot seat. The French striker told talkSPORT:
“He’s a top manager.
“He’ll always have interest. I can imagine him being a hit in the Premier League because of his experience.”
During his playing days Blanc enjoyed a brief career in the Premier League with Manchester United and played with Saha during their time at Old Trafford.
[ad_pod id=’dfp-mpu’ align=’right’]
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
The People are reporting that David Moyes is hoping to land Tottenham striker Peter Crouch by offering Jack Rodwell in exchange.
Moyes has failed to secure any transfers so far this summer and is eyeing up Crouch who is thought to be available.
A £10 million fee hangs over the forward’s head and the Toffee’s boss is considering throwing Rodwell in to tempt Spurs into selling at a reduced rate.
Despite showing considerable promise the 20-year-old has been beset by injuries over the last few years and Moyes is prepared to sacrifice him to land Crouch.
Boss Harry Redknapp is looking to shake up his attacking options at White Hart Lane and the deal and watched Rodwell in action against Villareal on Friday night.
He would have to rubber stamp the move any move but it’s been reported that the deal has been discussed at the highest level.
Moyes will have to move quickly if he is to land the England striker with Stoke City closing in on a £20 million deal for him and Wilson Palacios.
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
His £70,000-a-week wages have stalled the deal leading to Everton’s interest although the cash strapped Merseysiders won’t be able to afford his demands.
The Toffee’s will have to sell before they can buy but have so far failed to get high-earners Yakubu and Joseph Yobo off the wage bill at Goodison Park.
David Beckham could be a surprise addition to the Tottenham ranks this January as Harry Redknapp has openly expressed an interest in snapping him up. It is the kind of signing that has split the Spurs faithful right through the centre, with many questioning the actual motives behind this short term deal.
At FFC we have seen a mixed bag of articles which includes the significance of a Sporting Director; Spurs fall victim to ridiculous rulings, while five strikers that Harry has his eye on to strengthen Tottenham.
We also look at the best Tottenham articles around the web this week.
[VIDEO] The 2010 ‘Goal Of The Year’…take your pick
A like for like replacement for Modric…I beg to differ Robbie
Tottenham Awards 2010…and the winner is?
Should Tottenham look to similar signings to take them to the next level?
Love or loathe it, Spurs’ squad shows the significance of the structure
Tottenham fall victim to ridiculous rulings
FIVE strikers Harry has his eye on to strengthen Spurs
Signing Tottenham duo could be the spark the Hammers need
Milan set £7m fee to attract Premier League suitors
ITV’s insincere support for Tottenham is not welcome
The top TEN transfer coups of the window
*Best of Web*
Onwards, this beast of a team, onwards… – Dear Mr Levy
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
2010: Your Year Remembered… In Three Words – Who Framed Ruel Fox?
What to do with a team like Tottenham? – Spurs Musings From Jimmy G2
Both Goals …And Thank God For Levy – Harry Hotspur
Answer to forward conundrum must not take us backwards – Dear Mr Levy
Rio Ferdinand fears that his England career could now be over, following his omission from the Euro 2012 squad and the subsequent furore it has since caused. The Manchester United defender believes that the fact he isn’t getting picked, even with players out injured, suggests that he is no longer fancied for selection. Ferdinand refuses to quit the International scene and revealed that he is fully behind the national team and will among the crowds cheering them on to success.
Elsewhere in the news Van Persie is out to silence his Dutch critics; Tottenham set to play transfer hardball over Modric, while Franciszek Smuda, claims that Robert Lewandowski is likely to join Manchester United after the Euros.
Headlines
The FA are hoping that England’s relaxed approach around the Euros will pay great dividends – Guardian
England’s open training session offered little in the way of understanding as to how Roy Hodgson is going to line up his team ahead of the opener against France – Guardian
The Poland boss, Franciszek Smuda, claims his star striker, Robert Lewandowski, is on his way to Manchester United this summer – Sky Sports
Wayne Rooney vowed that the Holocaust will never be forgotten, following England’s humbling visit to Auschwitz – Daily Telegraph
Robin van Persie is out to prove his Dutch doubters wrong, who believe that the Arsenal striker has never really delivered at International level – Daily Telegraph
Tottenham are set to carry-on where they left off last summer and play hardball over the sale of Luka Modric – Independent
The Hammersmith and Fulham council have pledged to help Chelsea in their plans to redevelop Stamford Bridge, following the Blues failure to secure a deal for Battersea Power Station – Independent
Daniel Sturridge is set to be given a striking role in Stuart Pearce’s Team GB Olympic team – Daily Mail
Everton are looking to hijack Southampton’s move for Burnley striker Jay Rodriguez – Mirror
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
UEFA have performed a U-turn and WILL now act on acts of racism at the Euros – Mirror