Video: Newcastle v Man Utd Match Analysis & Highlights

Newcastle

Manchester United were slowed in their chase for the Premier League title with a goalless draw to Newcastle. In a fixture which usually splurges goals, it was surprising to see such a lack of them in a game which Newcastle started very well indeed, putting pressure immediately onto the United defence with excellent chances falling to Peter Lovenkrands several times only for him to waste them. United responded with an attack involving Chicharito and Rooney, but when the latter broke into the box after a lucky bounce, it was hit well over and the chance was of course gone.

United never really got into the pace - their pace, and although in the second half were not challenged very much in defence, were not greatly effective going forward either. Ryan Giggs spurned the best opportunity, as can seen above when a ball pulled back was hit agonisingly wide by the United veteran. It was the best chance of the game, and on another day, the Welshman would have seen it hit the back of the net, but unfortunately for him and United's title charge, to was not one of those days.

There were a couple of penalty appeals too. Firstly Nani went down in the first half, with no real contact on him. To be fair he didn't really appeal, probably through guilt for going down in the first place, but it isn't good to see. Then Lovenkrands was caught by Anderson in the box, with real contact, but nothing was given, much to the strikers frustration. United had another appeal turned down when Chiek Tiote raised his arms when a shot came at him in the box, and the final one in the last few minutes saw Chicharito fall under a challenge in the box. Lee Probert blew his whistle, and for a second United fans' eyes were wide open in anticipation. But a penalty was not given, rather a yellow card for Chicharito for simulation.

United are still on course for their 19th title, but will have their nervousness levels raised if Arsenal win against local rivals Tottenham on Wednesday. With Arsenal still to play at the Emirates, and Chelsea to play at Old Trafford, the way the title goes is well in United's hands. Maximum points will be United's target, but today's performance must be improved to do so.

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Good Response Is Vital to Win League

Newcastle

Neither Arsenal nor Manchester United enjoyed good results over the week end. United lost to local rivals City in the FA Cup Semi-final, and, although Arsenal didn't lose, it must have felt like a loss with the equalising penalty so late on in the game for Liverpool. Both results were crushing. Players' morale will have taken a blow, but it is who recovers first, and gets up from the low blows they have been dealt who are most likely to win the League. A quick recovery is crucial.

United are now favourites to win their 19th League title after Arsenal's week-end draw, with Sir Alex Ferguson's side 6 points clear at the top, but the Scot knows that any slip up could be capitalized on by Wenger's side. It is still a tight battle, and a battle either could yet win. Arsenal however will have to win every remaining game to stand a chance, and they must start with beating their local rivals Tottenham on Wednesday. If they lose or draw this game, it is surely over, but if they win, it keeps the heat on United, who they are yet to play.

United play on Tuesday against Newcastle at Saint James' Park. The atmosphere will be loud and tense, but with Rooney back, United will be favourites. The English striker is back from his FA ban for the swearing incident, and will be eager to make an impact after watching his side crash out of the FA Cup in great animation on the sidelines. United will hope he is bursting with goals - goals which will propel United further away from Arsenal, and closer to lifting the Premier League trophy.

Sir Alex has been here before, and he knows the huge importance of the Newcastle game:

"Going to Newcastle is the most important game we have coming up because the league is still our first priority. The Premier League and the Champions League are the two priorities at this club.

"The players had a big adrenaline surge for the semi-final with Manchester City but we need to win on Tuesday. And that's why Newcastle and the home game with Everton next Saturday are vital - after that there are only four games left and then we go to Arsenal the following week.

"So it's absolutely crucial for us and I think everybody knows when you go to Newcastle you have to deal with the atmosphere up there. They have fantastic supporters and you know they will be on your backs."

This game is vital in the Premier League race, and it is all about picking the players up and getting on with the job. There is a danger that some players may be mentally and physically drained because of the adrenaline of the Cup game, but with United's strength in depth, this should not be a problem.

Arsenal on the other hand do face a massive test against Tottenham, who, as the clubs local rivals, would love to rub salt in the wounds of the Gunners whilst moving closer to the Champions League places. It should not be forgotten that this is also a must win game for Tottenham, as their exploits in Europe this season have shown, they need the prestigious competition to keep their top players such as Bale and Van der Vaart at the club whilst using it as a valuable asset to attract top players to the club.

A good response to a bad result is vital, and whichever team wins the three points in the next few days will certainly have a better chance of winning the League. But anything can happen in football.

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Jose Enrique to Liverpool "Deal has been Done"

Newcastle

Liverpool had reportedly been watching Jose Enrique, the 25 year-old Spanish left back, and now according to Liverpool legend Phil Thompson, a deal "has been done" to bring the Newcastle player to Anfield.

Enrique joined Newcastle in 2007 for £6.3 million, signing a 5 year contract with the Magpies. But after a few impressive seasons with Newcastle, helping them to win promotion last season and then this season helping them to a safe League position, he has attracted the attention of several top teams. 

Manchester United had been linked to the former Valencia player, but it seems that Liverpool have already agreed to sign him. Kenny Dalglish let Paul Konchesky go to Nottingham Forest on loan when he was appointed manager, and has obviously made getting a replacement his priority. Liverpool have been linked to Fabio Coentrao and Oscar Wendt, but Damien Comolli has watched him personally. 

Enrique's contract expires in 16 months and has held off talks to renew it until the end of the season. Being targeted by clubs such as United, AC Milan and Liverpool have certainly contributed to that decision.

Watch: Newcastle 4 - 4 Arsenal

Newcastle

What an absolute shocker this one turned out to be. I thought, just like everyone else did that at 0 - 4 , there was no way back for Newcastle and Arsenal had it in the bag. They would be closing in on Manchester United at the top of the Premier League having closed the gap to only two points. How wrong we could have been.

Without Andy Carroll to lead their line anymore, Newcastle may have been worrying where their goals would come from. Four goals against a title challenging side is pretty impressive, but four goals after conceding four goals yourself is astonishing.

This must go down as the comeback of the season so far, if not ever, and today's football was fantastic all round with goals being scored left right and centre. But this really is bad news for Arsenal. They did have a man sent off, and this turned the tide and the game on its head, but conceding four goals against newly promoted Newcastle really doesn't bode well when Barcelona will be their opposition later this month.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger said:

"It was a good game with a lot of incidents and turning points, [but] the sending off was detrimental to us and some of the decisions went against us today. We were under pressure and we had problems to finish in the second half."

"It’s unpredictable sometimes, and it became difficult. At 4-1 we panicked a bit. But we were a little bit unlucky too."

"You have to take it on the chin and look at the positives. I didn’t see the sending off very well. But Barton should have been sent off too. We dropped two points, for sure."

Wenger: Nasri Will Miss Barcelona Game

Newcastle

Arsenal's fears were confirmed yesterday, as Arsene Wenger revealed that their talismanic midfielder this season, Samir Nasri will miss the all important fixture against Barcelona in the Champions League - a match that can border on impossible to win at the best of times. With a front line that strikes fear into even the strongest defence in the land, and a defence that can drive out some of the most potent attackers around, when you play Barcelona with the objective of winning, you need a strong team.

Arsenal's game against Barcelona is on the 16th of February, and with that date only being just under two weeks away, the hamstring injury that the Frenchman has suffered will most certainly keep him out of it - barring a miraculous recovery. Wenger said:

"For Nasri, the scan shows a hamstring strain. [He will be out for] 21 days."

Wenger's plan to play Nasri in the F.A Cup clash with Huddersfield has backfired - something which he admits, but it is now not the only injury problem that Wenger must solve. There are also concerns over the fitness of another midfielder, Alex Song. The Arsenal manager said:

"Song cannot walk. I don't know what he has got. He was kicked, I think it was by [Laurent] Koscielny; he knocks out everybody in our team. So we have to see how he responds to that in the next days, but he cannot walk at the moment."

Apart from knocking "out everybody in the team", Koscielny has been talking about winning the title, and has pointed out, probably quite rightly, that Arsenal are the only challengers with Manchester United for the Premier League title. Continuing to comment on the blatantly obvious, Koscielny said:

"We have got more points than Manchester City, Chelsea and the others"

He continued:

"Anything can happen in this league. That's why we must keep working hard together. We will keep fighting. It's important we keep our defence strong.

"If we don't concede, we will always make chances to score ourselves. It's going to be a big battle between us and Manchester United and hopefully they will drop points, not us.

"It's not going to be easy. But we have faith in ourselves and in the squad. We do believe we can do it so bring it on."

Arsenal's next game is against a side only recently freed of their talisman, Andy Carroll. Newcastle have £35 million in the bank, but can do nothing with it at the present time, and last night saw yet another striker leave their team. Shola Ameobi walked off in agony with an apparent broke cheekbone, or something painful, and he will either miss the game, or wear a protective mask. Arsenal are not the only team with problems it seems.

Transfer Deadline Day Roundup: £214,525,000

Newcastle

We have all been treated to quite a large slice of juicy transfer dealings this January in the busiest January transfer window I can remember. It has been absolute chaos as clubs have paid well over the odds for transfer targets - many of those clubs leaving their dealings to the very last minute in what has become a fashionable feature of these windows.

Firstly, Chelsea spent big. Very big. Roman Abramovich took a massive leap of faith and once again dipped into his deep, deep pockets to revive the Chelsea team to its winning ways once again. Just to reiterate how deep Abramovich's pockets actually are, the Russian billionaire pulled out a mightily generous £75 million in just one day to sign both Torres of Liverpool and David Luiz of Benfica.

As news broke that Fernando Torres had decided his future did not lie with Liverpool and so handed in a transfer request to his club among bids from Chelsea, Premier League teams and managers must have been bracing themselves for an invasion. Liverpool needed a new striker. They needed striker who could, to some degree replace the Spaniard and someone who could score goals - match winning goals to pull Liverpool up the table and push for that all important 4th spot. They would be guaranteed a lot of money to spend, but very little time to spend it in.
 
Liverpool got their £50 million - a massive amount for a striker off form, apparently always unhappy, and prone to injuries in what is likely to turn out to be a better deal for Liverpool than Chelsea. Liverpool also got Andy Carroll.

They already had Luis Suarez in the bag, and wanted someone with Premier League experience. They went for Newcastle number 9, Andy Carroll. A £25 million bid was rejected, and Newcastle asked for more. A second Liverpool bid was submitted, and rejected again, this time for £30 million, but the final bid was the one that sealed the deal. Carroll had submitted a transfer request - obviously unsettled by the interest of Liverpool, and a £35 million offer was too much for Newcastle to refuse.

Now Newcastle had £35 million, and even less time to replace their top striker. They were linked with Carlton Cole, Emile Heskey and Bolton's Johan Elmander - the latter rumour being fuelled by the fact that Chelsea's Danny Sturridge was being lined up for Bolton as a replacement. In the end, Newcastle failed to sign any one of those mentioned, but they did show some signs of life with £10, and then £12 million bids for Wigan's Charles N'Zogbia. Wigan saw the efforts as too late in the day, and both offers were rejected.

Charlie Adam of Blackpool stayed put in a bit of an anti-climax. Everyone thought that he was being driven to Liverpool by a car sent by Liverpool to sign for Liverpool. That rumour was probably started by an over enthused Liverpool supporter. It didn't turn out to be true, and even late bids from Tottenham were not enough to see the stubborn Blackpool manager Ian Holloway rethink his decision and Adam was to stay.

Shaun Wright Phillips was subject to interest from several clubs, none of which wanted to part with any money to bring him to their clubs. Newcastle, Bolton, West Ham, Everton and Portsmouth all tried to take Wright-Phillips out on loan. None were successful.

Stephen Ireland, who hasn't had the best time at Aston Villa has joined Newcastle, but none of that £35 million from the Carroll sale was spent, as it is only a loan deal. The 24-year-old has so far made 13 appearances – eight starts and five as substitute - in all competitions in claret and blue and ironically made his Villa debut against Newcastle at St James Park.

That covers most of the main transfers, but if you want to see a full list of every in and out this transfer window click here.

Manchester United and Arsenal were looking on in shock most probably at the enormous amounts of money being thrown around by their rivals. Both Ferguson and Wenger have been in agreement that there has been no real value in the transfer market and they were unlikely to add to their squad. With number like £50 million, £35 million and £25 million being coughed up for players, United and Arsenal probably did the right thing in keeping out of it. Neither club would be willing to spend that much on a player anyway.

Gasp in shock at the number that has been spent in just 31 day: £214,525,000. Just look at the number, and think what you would do with that. Of all the things that over two hundred million pounds could be spent on, it is spent on individuals who play football every week. The numbers are astonishing, but it is the quality of the football we all want to see now, not the vast amounts being spent.

Carroll to Liverpool Confirmed, Adam on His Way

Newcastle

Liverpool announced on their website that the club have agreed a fee for Newcastle and England striker Andy Carroll. The deal is apparently worth in excess of £35 million, which is absolute madness when you consider Torres was bought for £20 million in 2007, while David Villa, World Cup winner and proven goalscorer was bought by Barcelona for £34 million.

 There is a whole host of players that can be named who were bought for better value in the market, and considering Carroll has only spent 6 months in the Premier League with a newly promoted side, it is certainly a big gamble for Liverpool as they throw over half the expected transfer money from the Torres sale at Newcastle's gaping mouth and impossibly wide eyes probably filled with pound signs.

I suspect the hefty price is to do with the fact that Carroll is English, which always raises the price of players; Darren Bent and James Milner for example. Not to mention the fact that Liverpool are desperate to find a Torres replacement before the window closes, and will evidently do all they can to find one.

Charlie Adam of Blackpool is on his way to Liverpool in a car sent by Liverpool to sign for Liverpool. The car is an Audi, if that is of any importance. Oh yes, and the deal is reportedly worth £14 million. Madness.

But let us remember, that it is goals that win games, not massive transfer fees, so the players that are bought, although massively overpriced with inflated figures of stunning magnitude, must have time to prove their worth with the thing that counts the most - match winning goals.

Today's Transfer News

Newcastle

There has been a surprising amount of big name and big money moves going on this window, especially considering that the January window is usually quite slow and over hyped. Names such as Fernando Torres, Gareth Bale, Andy Carroll, Sulley Muntari and Stephane Sessegnon are the big names today, the day after Luis Suarez finally signed for Liverpool.

First of all, is Luis Suarez the partner or replacement for Torres at Anfield? The Spanish striker has submitted a transfer request to his club which has swiftly been rejected with a club statement asking Torres to honor the commitment he made to both Liverpool and the fans. His current contract ends in 2013, and it is believed that Chelsea have offered £35 million for the privilege of Torres playing in the blue shirt. Liverpool are now awaiting an improved offer, and despite a reported bid of £40 million and Danny Sturridge in the pipeline, Liverpool will do everything they can to fend Chelsea off their star striker.

Gareth Bale hasn't expressed his desire to leave Tottenham like Torres has Liverpool, but he is certainly attracting attention from top clubs around Europe. Inter Milan have felt the full force of Bale's brilliant left foot already and feel it would be better for them if he was on their side rather than the oppositions. However, they don't want to pay the £40 million valuation that Spurs have placed on Bale. Inters sporting director said that he received an email from the Tottenham chairman stating £40 million wouldn't be enough, and the Inter director replied by saying that the large amount isn't compatible with their strategies.
Perhaps Liverpool should value Torres at something ridiculous and get rid of pursuers that way?

Newcastle have rejected a bid for Andy Carroll of £23 million. The Magpies have once again been forced to reiterate the simple fact that the England striker is not for sale, and a Newcastle source called the bid 'paltry in the current climate'. The strikers 11 goals this season have helped his club to a respectable 9th in the League, and it his frightening presence up the field that has made him such a threat for Newcastle against opposing defenders that is attracting Spurs. Spurs know from Bale, that clubs with good players can be ever so stubborn about letting them go.

As Newcastle try to fight off interest for top players, their local rivals Sunderland are bringing them in as they try and snatch a European place. Inter Milan may not want to part with £40 million, but they don't mind letting Sulley Muntari go. Muntari is no £40 million, but he is still a good player, and certainly someone who can help out alongside Lee Cattermole in the Sunderland midfield.

Muntari is on loan until the end of the season, and the 26 year-old said of his move: "It feels great to be at Sunderland and to be back in English football. I'm very happy and from what I have seen here, it's going to be great."

Another 26 year-old joining Muntari at Sunderland is Stephane Sessegnon, for £6 million. The midfielder, who is described by his new manager Steve Bruce as someone who "can play on the left, on the right, through the middle - he's lightning quick and he's a match-winner." Bruce added that he thinks that Sessegnon will be a crowd favourite at the Stadium of Light. He has a while to prove his worth to the fans, as he signed a three and a half year deal at Sunderland.

Finally, Carlos Vela has officially joined West Brom on loan. The Arsenal striker was strongly linked to a move to Bolton, and Owen Coyle revealed that he had spoken to the players agent, but after being demanded to pay both the wages of the player and additional fees, pulled out.
Vela made only 13 appearances for Arsenal this season and 62 in total, scoring 11 times for the Gunners and the the West Brom manager Roberto Di Matteo welcomed Vela to his club:

''I'd like to officially welcome Carlos, who is an exciting signing for this club. Carlos is a new attacking option for us who can play both centrally and in the wide areas.

''He also has great technical ability and pace and we're hoping he can make a big impact during the remainder of the season."

Wise Wenger & Wilshere Wants Beckham at Arsenal

Newcastle

David Beckham is a footballer in demand at the moment, with several Premier League clubs interested in bringing him back to England in a short term loan deal. Tottenham, Newcastle and Blackburn have all confirmed their interest, and Jack Wilshere of Arsenal has also expressed his feelings that Beckham would be a great example to him and the team thanks to his "professional attitude, ability and experience". But by the looks of L.A Galaxy's stance on things, no deal will be done quickly. Why? The MLS side are baffled that Beckham wants to leave.

Its odd they think that. Absolutely no disrespect to the American football League, but it is nothing compared to English football. Can you blame Beckham for thinking about a move back to the place where he made his name; a place which turned him into a global star - a place he shouldn't have ever left? England is where the real competitive football is, and Beckham knows it. His Manchester United days were the best of his life and he cannot be blamed for wanting to relive something similar with Tottenham.

The move isn't about grabbing headlines, nor is it about making money - he has a life time supply of both. This is about playing some real football against world class professionals in an environment of a team challenging for the title - and it is also to maintain his fitness of course.

I couldn't agree more with what Arsene Wenger said:

"At the time he was practising here, he was ready. Since he had his injury I don’t know because I haven’t seen him practice or play.

"The only thing I can say, of course you don’t need to speak about his talent or his professional attitude because that was absolutely fantastic.

"I respect a lot, the guy who plays until the last day of his potential and doesn’t care too much about what people say because he knows he will never play again after that,”

Beckham of course trained at Arsenal a few years back and obviously impressed Wenger. Meanwhile, Jack Wilshere said on Twitter:

"Bring Becks to Arsenal. what a great Example he would be for all of us! His professional attitude, ability and experience! love 2 work with him!"

I can understand that Galaxy don't want a repeat of the last loan deal to AC Milan in which Beckham received a terrible injury to his achilles, and therefore missed a few games for the MLS side. But to be honest, I think they just don't want to let him go as they are afraid that he may become too comfortable in England. Comfortable enough to stay.

Snow Ruins the Football Week-end As Matches are Postponed

Newcastle

Premier League Postponements

Arsenal v Stoke

Birmingham v Newcastle

Liverpool v Fulham

Wigan v Aston Villa

AND
NOW

Chelsea v Manchester United

A week-end of football is destroyed because of masses of snow falling from the sky and settling on and around the grounds - leaving the surrounding areas to dangerous for fans to walk along.
A Liverpool spokesperson said:

"Although the Anfield pitch is playable, the conditions around the stadium and further afield for people travelling to the match are such that the decision was taken, following police advice on safety grounds, to postpone the game. All existing tickets will remain valid for the rearranged fixture and supporters will be advised of the new date as soon as possible."

It is pretty much the same story everywhere else, with the club, referee or local authorities deeming the surrounding area of the stadium too hazardous, despite the best efforts of ground staff.

The postponement of the Arsenal game against Stoke is probably a big disappointment for the Arsenal fans in particular. They would have loved to give Ryan Shawcross a right old rollicking because of the Aaron Ramsey incident, but that will have to be delayed for a little while until a new date is figured out. Arsenal could have also taken advantage ahead of the Chelsea - Manchester United game on Sunday, as a win against Stoke would have put them top of the table, and therefore put more pressure on the two teams to win at Stamford Bridge.
However, now the big game between Chelsea and United has been called off a day in advance because of the weather. It may be seen as good news for some United fans, as it means Paul Scholes, who would have been still recovering from an injury on Sunday, should now be ready to play in the renewed fixture. This snow is changing everything.

Snow, snow, snow. How big a part could it play in the title race?

Watch: Newcaste 3 - 1 Liverpool

Newcastle

N'Zogbia to Liverpool?

Newcastle

Charles N'Zogbia of Wigan Athletic has continually been linked with a move away from the DW Stadium, and has even admitted himself that if a bigger, better club came calling, he would happily consider it, describing Wigan as a "stepping stone" to future success.

Liverpool, and their new director of football strategy, Damien Comolli, have already been linked to a few creative midfielders including Marek Hamsik, Eden Hazard and Giovani dos Santos, and are now reportedly interested in signing the Wigan Frenchman in a deal worth a possible £9 million. It is thought that the extra natural width will produce more chances for the strikers - namely, Fernando Torres, as Liverpool seek to gain as many points as possible in their climb back to success.

Ryan Babel has failed to impress for Liverpool since his move from Ajax in 2007, while the striker-turned-winger Dirk Kuyt has a distinct lack of back-up for when he gets injured or needs a rest. Hodgson has apparently registered this, and was reportedly keeping a close eye on 24-year old N'Zogbia in Wigan's recent 2 - 2 draw with Stoke City in which he put in a man of the match performance.

N'Zogbia recently said:

"Wigan's just a stepping stone. They know very well I'm not a player who is going to stay at the club.

"I give 100 per cent on the pitch, but, if there's a bigger club that wants me, the manager and the president have always told me the door is open for discussion."

He has been a major player for Wigan since signing in 2009; he was named Wigan's Players' Player of the Year and Supporters' Player of the Season for 2009–10, and scored the winning goal against Arsenal in an excellent comeback in April which all but secured struggling Wigan's Premier League status.

Last summer he was given permission to speak to Birmingham City, after a £9 million was accepted by Wigan, but the deal did not materialise. So if he was eager to join Birmingham, surely he will be convinced to join Liverpool - especially as he will then have the chance to play alongside two of the best players in the world in Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres. That way,Wigan will have turned out to be the perfect "stepping stone" for the former Newcastle man.

Chris Hughton Sacked by Newcastle as Beardsley Takes Over

Newcastle

The Newcastle manager, Chris Hughton has been sacked by the club as they seek a manager with "more experience". The 51-year-old has managed Newcastle for about a year and a half, and has been in charge for 70 games - losing only 14 of them. However, Newcastle owner, Mike Ashley and the people in charge of Newcastle feel it is time for a change of manager at St James' Park, with Martin O'Neil the favourite to take over.

A club statement read:

"The board would like to place on record their thanks to Chris for his considerable efforts during the club's transition from Championship to Premier League football.

"Chris has shown exceptional character and commitment since being appointed manager in October 2009. The club wishes him well for the future.

"Regrettably the board now feels that an individual with more managerial experience is needed to take the club forward.

"The task of appointing a new manager now begins. An announcement will be made shortly regarding transitional arrangements pending the appointment of a successor."

Hughton is massively respected by the fans and players at Newcastle and among the Premier League in general. After Newcastle's relegation in 2009, Hughton became an instrumental figure in guiding Newcastle back to the Premier League as winners of the Championship. From the Newcastle players' reactions on Twitter, it was clear to register the general feeling of the sacking. Jonas Gutierrez wrote

 "Thank you Chris Hughton for believing in us when nobody believed in us."

While right back Danny Simpson bluntly wrote:

"Shocked"

Hughton becomes the first manager to be sacked this season, but one that many think didn't deserve to be. However, Peter Beardsley, the former Newcastle United captain and England international, who has been Reserve Team Manager at Newcastle since the start of the season, will temporarily take over, being supported by former Villa midfielder Steve Stone.

Redknapp Rules out Benzema Move but Players Must be Sold

Newcastle

A January transfer move for Karim Benzema has been ruled out by Harry Redknapp, while he also said that he will have to sell some of his players in order to purchase any improvements for his squad.

When asked about a possible move for the Frenchman, Redknapp said:

“There’s nothing in that,"

"He’s a good player, I like him, he looks a real talent. But certainly we haven’t made any enquires at all for him. There’s definitely nothing going on there at the moment."

“Before we can bring anyone in, I’ve spoke with the chairman, we need to shift one or two.

"It’s going to be a case of the only way we can do any business would be to let one or two go and whatever we get in we can go and invest.”

He hasn't ruled a move completely; by saying there is "nothing going on there at the moment" he was hinting that a move for him could be a possibility - maybe in the summer. Redknapp knows that Benzema would be cup tied in the Champions League, having played for Real Madrid, and as a competition that Tottenham are aspiring to do well in, they need their big name players. Benzema would be one of them.

If Tottenham were to invest in a new striker in January, they would most probably look closer to home, at a lower Pemier League team. Andy Carroll of Newcastle has been tipped as a possibility.

As for these players that Redknapp will have to let go, and Croatian play maker Niko Kranjcar has been rumoured to want out of White Hart Lane, seeking first team football. Liverpool were rumoured to be interestd for £7 million, while Italians Juventus are also interested.

After guiding his team to an inspired comeback against rivals Arsenal at the week end, Harry Redknapp is leading Tottenham in the right direction. He believes that his team can win the title this year, and the addition of top players that a Champions League team that they now are can attract, Tottenham are looking good for the future.

Arsenal 0 - 1 Newcastle - Carroll Steals the Win

Newcastle

A beautifully floated free-kick from Joey Barton just before half time prompted Fabianski to stagger out of his six yard box, wave his arms about, and allow the monster of Andy Carroll to power the flying ball into the back of an empty Arsenal net. It was that simple.

But the hard bit was yet to come for Newcastle. They had to resist the Arsenal attack, break up the play, and just get it out of their area. They did it brilliantly, with every single player working so hard for the team to keep out the Arsenal force. Tiote and Barton controlled the midfield - breaking down any attacks and running and running until the final minutes to win a valuable three point for the Magpies.

Arsenal had limited chances with a Nasri strike in the first half well saved by Tim Krul in the goal, while a Fabregas free-kick, also in the first half, hit the cross bar. But that was really as close as Arsenal came to scoring. All in all it was a very frustrating home game for Arsenal, who simply couldn't get passed the very well organised defence and midfield of Newcastle.

The strikers too, of Carroll, Ameobi and Ranger worked their socks off. They often didn't have much support in the box and had to come deep to receive the ball as well as moving out wide, but they didn't stop working, and also helped in defence.

Capello sat in the stands, watching the Englishmen on show closely. Jack Wilshere, Theo Walcott, Joey Barton, Kevin Nolan and Andy Carroll in particular played well, and with Capello looking for different, new players to break into his squad of national failures, they all have a chance.

Rooney's bad form has been well publicised, and Andy Carroll's good form was clear for the England manager to see today. He could be looking at a place in the England squad, or team in the near future if his form continues.

De Jong dropped from Holland for Ben Arfa Leg Break

Newcastle

The Break (Click to enlarge)

Bert Van Marwijk, the Holland coach, has dropped Nigel de Jong from his Holland squad because of what he called "a wild and unnecessary offence" after the Manchester City midfielder broke Hatem Ben Arfas leg.

The incident occurred in the third minute of Sunday's game between Manchester City and Newcastle. At first, the tackle seemed fair - and was deemed fair by the referee. There was no free-kick and no yellow card for the tackle - the game just carried on. But as Ben Arfa stayed down, screaming in agony and desperately trying to hold his leg together, the referee had to stop the game, and as the replays were shown, it became clear that the tackle was very hard, and very needless.

De Jong is building - or has built, a reputation for being a little too hefty in the challenge. The World Cup, for example. The outrageous fly-kick which he performed on Xabi Alonso in the final was not the only dangerous, and silly challenge in which he showcased his immense talent of hurting people (and getting away with it). Bert Van Marwijk has acknowledged this, and has decided, that if the referees aren't going to punish the Dutchman - he will.

"I've seen the pictures back. It was a wild and unnecessary offence. He went in much too hard. It is unfortunate, especially since he does not need to do it.

Ben Arfa receives Oxygen

The funny thing is that the referee did not even show a yellow card for it. Apparently, there are other standards. But I have a problem with the way Nigel needlessly looks to push the limit. I am going to speak to him"

Ben Arfa meanwhile, will take roughly about six months to recover from a broken tibia and fibula. The young man hopes to be back, playing for Newcastle soon, as he is enjoying life in England so much. He is only on a years long loan from Marseille, but after his wonderful debut goal, and lively performances so far, Newcastle may reward him with a permanent contract - if Marseille agree.

Carling Cup Round Up 22/09/2010

Newcastle

The Carling Cup's opening few rounds aren't usually the most exciting of games - tonight was an exception.

A 5-2 win for Manchester United against Scunthorpe saw United go a wonderful strike down early on, only for them to fire straight back against a very resilient and brave Scunthorpe side. A Gibson chip, 2 typical Michael Owen goals, a Park strike and Smalling finish was enough to see off the Championship side who had double the amount of attempts on target than United but were thwarted by a good game by Tomasz Kuszack. The game also saw Bebe grab his first game for Manchester United's first team as he came on as a second half substitution. I have been a sceptic since he signed, however he did look bright when he did have the ball. He isn't short of confidence with a long range shot being deflected and a few dribbles which unfortunately were intercepted. He showed good pace but apart from that didn't do much else.

Another seven goal thriller was at Stamford Bridge. Previously unbeaten this season, Chelsea were obvious favourites against the newly promoted side Newcastle. However, the Magpies went 1 - 3 up, with Kalou going off injured. Chelsea had used all of their substitutions so they were now reduced to ten-men, but this seemed to have the opposite effect to what you may think. Anelka upped his game and scored one, whilst equalising with a penalty. When it seemed to be heading to extra-time, Shola Ameobi scored the winner to send Chelsea packing from the League Cup. A great game.

Manchester City's millions didn't help them as they crashed out at the hands of West Brom. City striker Jo scored the opener, only for the Albion to bounce back with two goals in quick succession to defeat Mancini's flailing side.

Gerard Houllier made a good start to his career at Aston Villa as he watched his team beat Blackburn 3 - 1 at Villa Park. Givet put Blackburn ahead in the 34th minute, but Heskey and a double from Ashley Young secured Aston Villa's place in the next round.

Liverpool's dreadful season continued with a very poor performance against the lowly Northampton town. The reds created very few chances and were even taken to extra time. Normal time finished 1- 1, with Jovanovic scoring in the ninth minute for Liverpool. Ngog got the goal in extra time - just in time, but Liverpool were taken to penalties. Astonishingly they lost, with David N'Gog and Jovanovic missing their penalties and sending Liverpool out!

Carling Cup Third Round

Results

FT Wigan Athletic 2 – 1 Preston North End

Jordi Gomez 87, N'Zogbia 90 Treacy 23


FT Scunthorpe 2 – 5 Manchester United

Wright, J 19, Woolford 90 Gibson 23, Smalling 36, Owen 49, Park 54, Owen 71


FT Aston Villa 3 – 1 Blackburn Rovers

Heskey 59, Young, A 75, Young, A 77 Givet 34


FT Chelsea 3 – 4 Newcastle United

van Aanholt 6, Anelka 70, Anelka (pen) 87 Ranger 27, Taylor, R 32, Ameobi 49, Ameobi 90


FT Liverpool 2 – 2 Northampton

Jovanovic 9, N'Gog 116 McKay 56, Jacobs 98


FT West Brom 2 – 1 Manchester City

Zuiverloon 55, Cox 57 Jo 19

If Players Refuse to Play, Clubs should Refuse to Pay.

Newcastle

Refusing to play: Mascherano

Football clubs and the F.A should come down much harder on these players who refuse to play for their clubs in the hope that they can encourage a move to another club which will make them, and their agents more money. Some football players must understand that they are owned by their football club, and they are under contract to them, and so when they are available to play a match, and they are picked, then they have no choice but to do as their clubs say.

However, with the recent transfer story involving Barcelona and Javier Mascherano of Liverpool, this was not the case. Mascherano refused to play for his club last week in the hope that his little "strike" would be noticed, and he would get his wish and move away from the club. With news today that Liverpool have now agreed to let Mascherano hold talks with Barcelona over a possible move, he has gotten what he wants. Surely this only encourages more players like Mascherano to do wrong and refuse to play in the hope of moving to another club.

Mascherano is not the only player of recent weeks to do this either. The Stoke City goalkeeper Asmir Begovic also refused to play in the hope that he could make a move to Chelsea possible. In addition, Hatem Ben Arfa of Marseille is presently refusing to play for the French club because he wants to play for Newcastle. In my opinion, it seems like most moves like this are mainly money related. Harry Redknapp said that when players do this it is usually down to the agents wanting more money and suggesting the player use tactics like these to fuel a move for more lucrative deals.

If a player wants to move to another club, he should go about it in a more mature manner. It seems so immature and a bit of a disgrace for them to just say "Well I won't play until I get what I want" like a spoilt little brat. And frankly, if I was an owner or a manager, I wouldn't pay them their wages and would fine them on top of that for refusing to play. If they are fit and able to play, and get picked for the team but refuse, why should they be payed for doing nothing?

Premier League Transfer News

Newcastle

It's the start of August, and clubs have less than a month to haul their cheque book out of their designer suit pockets and splash the cash on the players that they believe will improve their squad and help them to win back some of the millions they spent and win some trophies along the way. It is also a time for newspapers to spew out ridiculous rumours which get every fans hopes up, only for us to be let down. So lets spoil ourselves and have an engaging but cautious look at the rumours that are circulating today.

Guiseppe Rossi is involved in an interesting rumour today. Apparently, Rossi could be on his way out of Villarreal, with a few clubs interested. However, those few clubs could be irrelevant because the player has a clause in his contract which allows Manchester United, his former club to have first choice as to whether they want to sign him or not. The price that United will be quoted however is £12 million. If United offer this, it would be even more perplexing than the players first name, as Ozil is also going for £12 million, and I would rather Ozil than Rossi.

Next, and former Arsenal midfielder, Mathieu Flamini, a man with an equally confusing first name, is interesting Premier League new boys Newcastle and the team still asking for a ridiculous £30 million for James Milner, Aston Villa. The Frenchman is currently playing for AC Milan, but after only starting 14 times last season, and often in defence, he feels unwanted, unloved, and wants to play more, so he sees a return to England as the perfect place to restore his career.

Arsenal are still trying to find some more defenders so they can play a 7-2-1 formation to protect Manuel Almunias goal. Oh, whats that? A new goalkeeper? Yes, Arsenal are interested in bringing German pair, Derdar Tasci (centre back) and Rene Adler (goalkeeper) to London to beef up their defence which is in dire need of beefing up as William Gallas and Sol Campbell have left - taking a lot of the beef with them. Many believe that Arsenals problem is that their defence is so poor, their goalkeepers make way to many mistakes, and those reasons are why Arsenal have had a poor trophy drought. So a new goalkeeper who isn't prone to mistakes and a solid defender added to the mix will do Arsenals title challenge the world of good.

Aiden McGeady seems sure to leave Celtic this summer, and Aston Villa could be his destination. The flying winger could be the perfect replacement for James "£30Million" Milner as Manchester City continue to struggle to prise Martin O'Neills firm grasping hand off of the amazingly overrated Milner. There is no doubt that if City finally do cough up the money for Milner, then Villa will have money to spend, and £10-12 million may be enough to see McGeady say goodbye to Scotland.

As Manchester City try and sell a few player, Olympiacos, Marseille and Fenerbache are the three clubs trying to buy Roque Santa Cruz, with no other reason than... he used to be quite good. Might as well throw in a completley stupid Manchester City rumor as well, but this time City aren't buying. I have no idea where this came from, but apparently Tevez is "depressed" in Manchester and Jose Mourinho wants to comfort him by offering him the chance to re-join Ronaldo at Real Madrid. Thats sure to cheer him up.

Finally some Actual Transfer News

Newcastle

One of these days I won't have to mention Manchester City in a transfer window update. Yes, it might be a while, but it will happen... I hope.
Yes, Manchester City have apparently moved a step closer to signing Mario Balotelli. It's been a hell of a big staircase, but now the Inter President has told everyone that if Balotelli were to leave then he is by no means "indespensable". The tabloids say that this is a "hint" that a deal could be closer to being finalised. I just wish that they hurry up and finish it. The Inter players don't like him, Manchester City do, Mario likes City back, and City have loads of money. Whats the problem?

Next, and Sol Campbell has moved to Newcastle United. A strong, gigantic, experienced defender to lead out the newly promoted Magpies in their quest to stay in the Premier League, it seems like a good deal for Chris Hughton. With Dan Gosling also joining on a free, and Hatem Ben-Arfa of Marseille also rumoured to be on Newcastles wanted list, it seems like Newcastle could be building up to the team they used to be, and a forced to be reckoned with. Not yet of course, there is still a long way to go, but slowly and steadily they are getting there.

Roy Hodgson has been keeping himself busy too. Luke Young, the Aston Villa defender who can play left or right, he's probably not bothered as long as he plays, has signed for the Mersyside club. Meanwhile, Maxi Rodriguez will be seen as another pointless and useless signing by Rafael Benitez as he heads to Espanyol after joining for £1.5 million last year.

Tottenham have reportedly had a bid for Scott Parker rejected by West Ham, as the Hammers try their hardest to keep hold of the man that almost single handedly kept West Ham in the Premier League last season. Talking of rejection, Real Madrid legend, Raul rejected a chance to move to England with his preference to be German club Shalke.

Goalkeeper David James plunged his club into even more trouble than they were in already, if it were possible, by leaving Portsmouth, and now he is holding talks with Celtic over a possible move to the Scottish version of the Premier League.

Whilst Portsmouth get rid of their defensive players, Arsenal want to add to theirs, and that will be through either a German or an Englishman. The London club will first make a move for Per Mertesacker for £10 million, and then if that fails, they will try once again to bring Evertons Phil Jagielka to their club. A bid of £14 million has already been rejected by Everton for the defender, but Wenger justifiably thinks he needs more defenders and Jagielka is who he wants.

Finally, for a wild rumour. A rumour which is not likely to ever be seen in reality. Manchester United want Ashley Young of Aston Villa. It's unbelievable right? Manchester United actually buying a player with proven quality? Pfft! Not this season anyway. But seriously, Ashley Young is needed by Villa, even more so if Milner leaves for, yes you know, Manchester City.