Sven-Goran Eriksson Urges FA To Consider Jose Mourinho

Sven-Goran Eriksson has urged the FA to approach Jose Mourinho as coach when Fabio Capello resigns. The national team’s coach is one the hardest jobs in football and one where many managers have failed to get the best out of the players.

The Swede insists the special one has more than the correct qualities to succeed as England Manager and would like to see the Portuguese man at the helm. Eriksson himself enjoyed a successful spell as England manager guiding the Three Lions to a quarter-final place in the World Cup where they lost to Brazil in 2002.

Jose Mourinho, who is now boss of Real Madrid, helped guide Chelsea in winning two Premier League titles and the FA Cup during his time at Stamford Bridge.

"I wouldn't be surprised if Jose was a candidate for the England job, absolutely not," the Leicester boss was quoted as saying in several national newspapers.

"Do you think the discussion that you must be English to be the England manager is still going on? I don't think so.

"Nobody would complain if England were to take Mourinho. I think what he has done during the last 10 years makes him perhaps the best, or one of the best, managers around.

"When he's finished at Real he won't be short of offers, so why not? If you've tried English football, you love it, whether you are a player, coach or manager.

"If you've been working in football in England, then leave for another country, it's not the same. So, I understand Jose wants to come back."

Image Credit Flickr User Kate_Lokteva

Sergio Agüero Eyes Premier League Title

Manchester City new boy Sergio Agüero has set his sights on winning trophies at Eastlands. The Argentine striker has spoken of his delight at joining City and is keen to do well in first season.

Aguero signed for the blue side of Manchester from Atletico Madrid in a deal reportedly to be within the £35million mark. The City new boy has wasted no time in setting himself the target of helping the Eastlands outfit winning the Premier League crown.

"I was very interested in playing here as it's a growing club and I hope that we can grow together," he said.

"I think we have great players and a great team. I am playing at one of the best English teams at the moment and there are many things that can be achieved. We can win many titles and hopefully it will be a top year for us."

Speaking on national team-mate Carlos Tevez saga, Aguero said; "We are good friends and play together in the national team but whatever he does is up to him, I just want to concentrate on playing here.

"If he is here, then that is great. If not, then I will adapt without him. Who is here and who is not does not matter, what is important is that I become part of the team. It is easy to adapt these days."

Aston Villa Sign Charles N'Zogbia

Aston Villa have secured the services of Wigan’s Charles N’Zogbia for £9.5 million , Villa have been the tracking the winger ever since Villa sold Stewart Downing to Liverpool earlier this month and after completing a medical on Friday N’Zogbia signed a five-year deal at Villa Park.

N’Zogbia only had a year left on his deal with Wigan and the Latics decided to cash in now rather than lose the player on a free next year when he would be out of contract, the Winger is delighted to be joining the Midlands outfit and could make his first start in next Wednesday’s pre-season friendly against Derby County.

Speaking about his move to Villa, the Winger said on the club’s official website; "I am really happy and extremely excited to sign for Aston Villa,"

"It is a great club and it is a really big step for me in my career, so I am sure I will enjoy my football here.
"I think it is going to be a really good season and hopefully I'll do well here.

"I can't wait to meet my new team-mates, play with them and work together to do something special this season.

"Alex McLeish is a strong manager and I think he is going to build a really good team for this season."

Andre Villas-Boas Expects City To Challenge For Premier League Title

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Andre Villa-Boas has said that he expects Manchester City to challenge for the Premier League title when the new season starts. City have been splashing the cash this summer and yesterday signed Argentine striker Sergio Aguero from Atletico Madrid in a deal reported to be around the £35 million mark.

The Chelsea boss insists that City will be looking to start the season strong as they aim to win the league, "I think it's pretty clear that they are building a squad to fight for the title," the 33-year-old said.

"It's for Mancini to say what his objectives are but my personal perspective is that they are making good signings and that they can threaten for the league."

The former Porto coach feels it be close race between a number of five clubs, including Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester City.

"I think Man United as the title holders will be a reference for everybody but you can see the amount of activity Manchester City have had in the market. It's pretty clear they have a title objective as well," he said.

"Liverpool did more or less the same, Tottenham want to get back into the top four so they'll be challenging and Arsenal are always a threat - we haven't seen the last of them in the transfer market - so everybody is strengthening and as long as everybody feels happy with what they have, everybody competes in a different way."

Chelsea have been relatively quiet in the transfer market so far this summer, but Villas-Boas suggests he will add to squad is the right player becomes available.

"It all boils down to the evaluation period, there's still plenty of time for those decisions," added Villas-Boas.

"The players that we have shown interest in are young and looking to the future of the club, you might see similar moves in the future from us. It is one of the oldest squads in the Premier League, we respect them and we are happy enough with the quality that we have to challenge for the title but we are also looking into the future.

"We are so comfortable at the moment with what we are getting because of the young players we have. Things for the future are brighter for us in that respect."

Jurgen Klinsmann Named US Soccer Team Coach

Former German striker Jurgen Klinsmann has been named the new USA international team coach. After Bob Bradley was relieved of his duties on Thursday, the US moved quickly to fill the post and Klinsmann was automatically tipped as favourite to take up the position.

Bob Bradley had been in charge of the national team since January 2007, but the US has now turned to Klinsmann is hope of progessing the national  soccer team.

 Klinsmann’s first match in charge of the U.S. National Team will be against Mexico on August 10 in Philadelphia, “We are excited to have Jürgen as the head coach of our Men’s National Team,” said U.S. Soccer President Sunil Gulati.

“He is a highly accomplished player and coach with the experience and knowledge to advance the program. Jürgen has had success in many different areas of the game and we look forward to the leadership he will provide on and off the field.”  

Speaking about his new post, the former Germany striker added; “I am proud and honoured to be named the head coach of the U.S. Men’s National Team,” said Klinsmann.

“I would like to thank the U.S. Soccer Federation for the opportunity, and I’m excited about the challenge ahead. I am looking forward to bringing the team together for our upcoming match against Mexico and starting on the road toward qualifying for the 2014 FIFA World Cup.”

Darren Fletcher Hopes To Draw England In Qualifiers

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Darren Fletcher has today insisted that he would love to lock horns with the English should the Three Lions be drawn in the same group as Scotland when the World Cup qualifying draw is picked this Saturday in Rio. England could face Craig Levein’s Scotland with Fabio’s men being drawn in pot one and the Scots in pot four where both sides could battle it out for a place in the 2014 finals in Brazil.

"I would love to play them," Fletcher told BBC Scotland

"It is not something I would be fearful of, rather it is time we were playing them again.

"It would mean some banter on the Manchester United training ground with guys like Rooney and Ferdinand - and maybe a couple of solid kicks aimed at team-mates.

"But I think it would be good for the Scottish players and fans. It would be a massive game for us.

"I remember the Euro play-off at Hampden and Wembley in 1999 and it was fantastic to beat them, although we lost on aggregate to two goals from Paul Scholes."

Fletcher is currently battling is way back to fitness after missing the Premier League run-in and Champions League final, but the Scot is full of confidence that Scotland can make the Euro 2012 finals next year.
Scotland face a double-header European Qualifiers against Czech Republic and Lithuania which Scotland’s assistant Peter Houston describes as must-win games if they are to qualify.

He added; "I believe we can get to the play-off.

"Every game is a must win game and sometimes it is good when you know where you stand.

"You dream as a kid of playing for your country in a finals, whether it is World Cup or Euro, and I would hate it if when it is all over I never featured in either.

"But there is no denying the (World Cup) draw could bring us a group of death.

"It is not good being in pot four, but circumstances, including bad results in friendlies, have brought it upon us. All these things add up.

"However, we are a good side. More and more of the lads are coming down to England and playing at the top level.

"When everyone is fit Scotland have a very good core of a team.

"Charlie Adam, for example, was outstanding last season. 

"He is a talisman. Everyone is talking about him. He took the Premiership by storm."

Giuseppe Rossi To Remain At Villarreal

Giuseppe Rossi's agent has confirmed that it is highly unlikely that his client will be sold this summer; it was thought that the forward could be set to move after being linked with numerous clubs.

Juventus emerged as the favourites to sign the Italian, but after Villarreal sold Santi Cazorla to Malaga for 19million Euros Rossi was simply made unavailable for transfer, consequently being taken off the market.

Rossi, former Manchester United striker was keen on a move to Juventus, but he has now accepted the clubs decision to keep him in Spain for the forthcoming season.

"Giuseppe Rossi has officially been taken off the market after they sold Santi Cazorla to Malaga," his agent Federico Pastorello told Sky Italia.

"The economic problems which the club had have now been resolved by that transfer.

"Nevertheless, this decision has liberated Rossi as he's now just focusing on playing football and scoring goals.

"He's not used to being at the centre of such negotiations and tension. He wanted Juventus, but he's accepted the position taken by the president of Villarreal."

Manchester City Confirm Sergio Agüero Signing

Manchester City has today confirmed the signing of Sergio Agüero from Atletico Madrid. The 23-year-old is to sign a five-year deal at Eastlands.

City had been after Agüero for sometime after striker Carlos Tevez had expressed his desire to quit the Premier League. However, Mancini also hinted that even if Tevez remained at Eastlands, City would still seek to complete the deal.

Manchester City has confirmed that Agüero could make his City debut in the Dublin Super-Cup this weekend.

Atletico Madrid released a statement today confirming the Argentine’s exit saying; "The club thanks him for his services in the past five seasons and wishes him luck with his new club."

James Degale To Face Piotr Wilczewski For Euro Title

James Degale' manager and promoter Frank Warren has secured Degale for a shot at the European title against Piotr Wilczewski. Degale has been out of action since his controversial points loss against George Groves.

James Degale has thanked Frank Warren for getting him a title shot in his first fight back since the Groves bout. The fight against the Pole with be around September time although a finalised date and venue has yet to be agreed.

Speaking about the news about fighting for the European title, Degale said: "It's fantastic that I'm fighting for the European title on my first fight back and full credit to Frank Warren for doing a great job in getting me it.

"I still think I won the fight against Groves, but that's in the past and I'm moving onwards and upwards in my career and the European title is a major title I want to win.

"Wilczewski is a tough and dangerous looking kid, he's got a good record, he carries a high world ranking and I reckon he is a much better fighter than Groves.

"It's a tough test and I'm looking forward to it. I want to be the best and I've got to get through this guy to prove it."

Wilczewski, 32, said: "DeGale is a good strong fighter and he proved his class winning the Olympic gold medal. I'm not worried by coming to England to face him.

"I guarantee that there will be more fans cheering for me in the arena on the night than him because there are more Polish people in England than back in Poland!"

England U20 World Cup Team Accosted at Bogota Airport

It looked as if there may have been trouble at Bogota airport yesterday when security was massively increased for the arrival of the England under 20 World Cup Squad.

In fact the squad were given a very Columbian welcome by a host of female police officers who had gathered at the airport with the specific intention of making the team’s arrival as fun as possible.

As the girls ran towards the players it did look for a moment as if the entire team were just about to be arrested and detained but it was simply the keenness of the young ladies to engage the English lads in a swift salsa before they made their way to their hotel.

They certainly weren't expecting to be accosted by the Columbian police in this manner!

The boys took to the floor but to be honest, we think they need to brush up a little on their Latin dance skills. Let's just hope that the English Under 21s show even better movement on the pitch!

Dimitar Berbatov Committed To Manchester United

Dimitar Berbatov's agent has confirmed that he expects his client to honour his contract at Manchester United. Speculation had been mounting that the striker could leave Old Trafford this summer.

After being left out of the Champions League final and making most of his appearances as a substitute for United it was thought that Berbatov was frustrated at Old Trafford and would seek a move away.

Alex Ferguson has previously stated that he would understand if the Bulgarian would want to leave Manchester United this summer, but the player's agent Emil Dantchev has played down the speculation that he will leave and says the 30-year-old will remain with the Premier League champions.

He told tuttomercatoweb: "Berbatov away? I don't want to comment on what the newspapers write, these are just words.

"There is only one truth: Berbatov is a Manchester United player... and he will not leave before the end of his contract."

"I repeat: Berbatov will stay at Manchester."

Walter Smith Keen On A Return To Management In England

Walter Smith has today confirmed that he would be willing to take up a opportunity to manage in England or abroad job a job offer come in for the former Rangers boss, the Scot quit his post at Ibrox at the end of last season after guiding Rangers to the SPL title.

Smith paved the way for his assistant at Rangers Ally McCoist to take over the hot seat for the Glasgow club; Smith has now suggested that he would love another crack at managing a club in England.

Smith also insisted that he has no plans to retire from being a manager, he said; "I never said I would retire, I said I would just be leaving Rangers."

"I wouldn't manage again in Scotland, I've managed Rangers on two occasions now and I've managed the national team.

"But if an opportunity came up to go to England or abroad, I would consider that."

Amir Khan Hopeful On Facing Floyd Mayweather

Amir Khan is on course to face Floyd Mayweather next year after beating Zab Judah last night, knocking him out in the fifth round with a body shot.

The Bolton fighter dominated the American in all the five rounds to claim Judah’s IBF light-welterweight crown and now Amir Khan will be looking to move upto welterweight division where he could face Floyd Mayweather.

Khan looks likely to have one more fight before stepping upto 147lbs where he could fight against Kell Brook in an all English encouter,  Khan who now has a 26-1 record as a professional also hinted that he would like rematch against Breidis Prescott to revenge his only defeat in the ring.

"Amir will move up to 147 after December," said Khan's business manager Asif Vali.

"That is something that he is looking to do in December or early next year.

"And what we'll be looking to do is maybe have one more fight in the UK. Kell Brook is there at 147 - that's a fight that interests the British fans.

"After that, the summer, Mayweather is there. Yesterday he (Mayweather) came out and made a statement - he wants to fight Amir in the UK, so I hope he sticks by it."

Khan is a confident fighter and is willing to face anyone out there.

"I'll fight anyone and there are some big names out there for me. I'll take a look at the short list," he said.

"My aim is to move up the pound-for-pound rankings and to one day be pound-for-pound champion. I want to be the best fighter in the world.

"I'm still a fight or two away from there yet. At 25 I'll fight at 147 pounds and see where we go from there.
"We just keep on collecting titles, that's what we want to do. I'm only 24 and there's a lot of improvement to come."

Speaking about a possible mouth-watering clash with Mayweather in the future, Kahn said; "The Mayweather fight is something I'm looking at the for the future and it would be huge for me. It would drive me on.

"I've got the speed and the skills and with (trainer) Freddie Roach polishing me up a little more, it's a fight we can win."

Atletico Madrid: Talks To Begin With City Over Aguero

Atletico Madrid have confirmed that talks will begin discussions with Manchester City over a possible transfer for Sergio Aguero within the next 48 hours. Mancini has made it no secret that he would like to sign the striker with Carlos Tevez expected to leave Eastlands before the season starts.

Mancini is keen to find a replacement for their striker whose move to Brazilian side Corinthians collapsed early this week.  Despite this blow to the player the manager still expects Tevez leave this summer.

Mancini has also insisted that should Tevez remain at City, he would still like to sign Aguero. The Atletico striker has made it clear he would like to leave and that he is interested in a move to City.

The Italian believes signing Aguero would be a great addition to City and is keen to sign striker.

"Aguero is young and can start to score a lot. He will become a top striker. He is 23 and now is his time," he said.

"He is like Carlos Tevez and could play with Carlos, or Edin Dzeko or Mario Balotelli.

"He can play as first striker or second striker. He has good technique. After many years in a top club like Atletico Madrid he can play Premier League.

"Aguero is a good player, like Samir Nasri, like Cesc Fabregas, like Robin van Persie - there are a lot of good players in England."

Image Credit Flickr User Monijojo

Barcelona Sign Alexis Sanchez

Barcelona have confirmed the signing of Alexis Sanchez from Udinese, the Catalan giants had been in pursuit of the Chilean for a while and have finally got their man after weeks of negiotations.

Sanchez has agreed personal terms and signed a five-year contract, Barcelona will pay an €26million with an additional €11.5million in add-ons.

Barcelona will officially unveil the player at the Nou Camp this weekend.
Could Barcelona now be set to up their chase for Arsenal’s Cesc Fabregas now they have signed Sanchez?

Floyd Mayweather Praises British Fans

Floyd Mayweather has praised British supporters. He has welcomed those fans over to his gym in Las Vegas who made the trip over to watch Amir Khan fight Zab Judah this weekend. Money Mayweather has invited the fans down to watch him work-out as he prepares to fight Victor Ortiz.

The pound-for-pound fighter is scheduled to fight Ortiz on September 17, his first bout for 16 months.

Mayweather knows only too well the passion British fans show to the sport when he fought Ricky Hatton in 2007.

Mayweather could eventually face Khan should the Bolton fighter overcome Zab Judah on Saturday.

WBA light-welterweight champion Khan meets IBF king Zab Judah in a unification fight before a likely move up to welterweight where he could face Floyd Mayweather.

"I have so much love for my fans in the UK," said Mayweather.

"Ever since I fought Ricky Hatton in 2008 and then held an open workout in London in 2009, they have shown me nothing but support.

"I wanted to do something for them and I hope they can attend my work-out."

Fans Show Off New Liverpool Away Kit for 2011/12

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Proud Liverpool fans show off the new Liverpool FC away kit for the 2011-12 season.  You can see the pride on their faces as they boldly hit the yellow with the color equivalent of a Liverpool Kiss.

From left to right: Our Barry, Our Terry, Our Gary, Barry, Terry, Gary, Ba', Te', Ga', Barry, Terry, Gary.

Cough. Well, OK.  Perhaps not - but we are reliably informed the 11/12 away strip will be, in fact, well, yellow.

John Terry Admits Management Ambition

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John Terry has confirmed that he would like to become Chelsea manager when his finishes his playing career.  The Blue captain is 33 and has three years left on his current contract at Stamford Bridge.

The appointment of Andre Villas-Boas as manager at Chelsea, who is just three years his senior has ignited his own ambitions about going into management.

‘It’s great for the players looking at this,’ said Terry. ‘Bringing in Roberto di Matteo as his assistant and giving chances to players who’ve been around the club gives encouragement to players like me, Frank Lampard, Didier Drogba and Petr Cech that if we do our badges there will be roles in the future, whether it’s with the first team or reserves.

‘That’s my overall aim, to become a manager. I’ve got three years left on my deal and I will be 33 then, but I’m certain he will be around for a long time." he said of Villas-Boas.

‘He’s a very intelligent man. He has attention to detail in pre-game and during training, and he’s very much like Jose Mourinho in taking it from one training session to another.’

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Fergie Understands Berbatov Frustration

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Alex Ferguson says he would fully understand if Dimitar Berbatov decided to leave Old Trafford this summer. The Bulgarian found life difficult last season at Manchester United after making most of his appearnces as a substitute although finishing joint top-scorer in the Premier League.

Berbatov’s biggest blow came in May when he did not even make the bench for United's UEFA Champions League final meeting with Barcelona at Wembley. Due to the blistering form of the Mexican striker, Ferguson was forced to keep Chicharito in the starting eleven.

With United having six strikers for next season, competition for places will be strong.

The Scot has also insisted that his strikers need to get used to playing in squad rotation system as United look to retain their Premier League crown and Fergie feels this might not be enough to keep hold of Berbatov.

He said: "I'd understand that (if he wanted to leave) but you could say that about them all.

"I don't pick the same team every week do I? I've only done that once in the last three years.

"So they all understand it's the squad that wins the games, wins the cups and I've got a good squad that will be used in exactly the same way.

"They've got to understand that now and they all do."

Ferguson admits he had little choice but to start with striker Hernandez last season after the Mexican burst into United's first-team in outstanding form.

He added: "The situation was straightforward. Chicharito hit such good form that you had to put him in every game, because he added so much in terms of threatening defenders all the time.

"It was just unfortunate for Berbatov. It didn't make him a bad player; he was just an unlucky player in that this lad came in. But that's football.

"But Dimitar, he's been brilliant, first class. His training has been terrific and he's a good type of person. A nice guy."

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Carlos Tevez Deal To Corinthians Collapses

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Carlos Tevez proposed £40million transfer to Corinthians has collapsed after the Brazilian side pulled out of the deal. The Argentine player has expressed his desire to leave Manchester City to be closer to his family and the £40million price tag would only be available to Corinthians on humanitarian grounds so Tevez could be closer to his family.

However, the Brazilian transfer window closes on July 20^th, making it impossible to sign players based abroad before it closes today.

"The board of Sporting Club Corinthians hereby officially announce the impossibility of hiring the Argentine striker Carlos Tevez," said the statement.

"While acknowledging the efforts of Manchester City and all involved in the negotiation, more time is needed for the transfer to be achieved, given that the window to sign players from abroad closes on Wednesday, July 20

"We are aware of the dream our fans had of having this player at Corinthians again and we look forward to him being with us in the near future."

Corinthians are still interested in the player, but it seems no deal with be done until the January transfer window which will allow time for negotiating on personal terms.

Tevez is back home following Argentina's Copa America exit, City are keen to lure fellow countryman Sergio Aguero to the club and provide even more competition for places. But after the collapse of Tevez transfer could this spell the end Aguero pursuit and Tevez remain at Eastlands?

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John Terry: Modric Would Be A Great Addition

John Terry insists that Luka Modric would be a great addition should Tottenham allow the Croatian to join the Blues, the Tottenham player has been locked in talks with Spurs chairman Daniel Levy as the midfielder seeks permission to leave White Hart Lane.

Chelsea have had two initial bids rejected by Spurs as the club try it’s best to keep hold of the highly-rated player, Luka Modric has since submitted a written transfer request in an attempt to force through a move to Chelsea.

Terry has praised the 25-year-old's ability and believes he would be a good addition to manager Andre Villas-Boas' squad who are likely to challenge for the title this season, with the lure of Champions League football Modric is keen on the move to West London.

"He's a world class player who is very difficult to play against," said Terry.

“He's very agile, very quick and a great finisher like we've seen over many years.

"I know there are problems. It's probably a little bit disrespectful towards Spurs. He has his own problems at the moment.

"We've got a good squad of players. If he comes he could certainly add to that."

John Terry also believes that striker Fernando Torres will be back to his best when the season resumes in August, The Spaniard is enjoying a full pre-season with the Blues this summer and looking as sharp as ever.

"He backs himself," he continued. "He realises from the World Cup he had a slight injury and carried that towards the end of last season.

"He feels fresh, he's happy. He's fully settled. I'm certainly looking for him to get double figures goals wise.

"He was still good at times last year. He's a world class player and the price tag is big weight to carry on your shoulders.

"He's got all the ability in the world. He's very quick and a great finisher.

"We're delighted to have him and if he can bring goals along with what we already have then fantastic."

Nigel Mansell Slams Lewis Hamilton

Former British Formula One champion Nigel Mansell has slammed Lewis Hamilton and has called on the British driver to show maturity, Lewis has been the subject of controversial incidents on and off the track recently.

The Briton was involved in two accidents in Monaco, colliding with Felipe Massa and Pastor Maldonado, the McLaren driver was then penalised for his actions by the stewards, which he described as "frickin' ridiculous".

Hamilton then caused a stir by suggesting that the action taken against him was "maybe because I'm black, that's what Ali G says..."

The British driver then was forced to apologise for the 'joke', but then he didn't help himself next time out in Canada when he was forced to retire after a collision with team-mate Jenson Button.

Hamilton then publicly criticised his team for selecting the wrong set of tyres which resulted in him qualifying in tenth spot at the British GP.

"Lewis is not mature and he's not got a head on him," Mansell is quoted by ESPN as telling F1 Racing magazine.

"I think he needs to settle himself down because the recent episode at Monaco was unnecessary and unflattering both for himself and Formula One. I thought his driving style was very poor because he had no respect for anyone else because where is anyone going to go?

"To say that overtaking is impossible at Monaco, well... I've done it coming out of the tunnel several times... but then to say what he said about the stewards was appalling. I was very disappointed and he's got to remember that he has been a World Champion so he should act accordingly and appropriately at all times," he added.

The former Williams man suggests that Hamilton should use his team-mate and fellow title winner, Jenson Button, as a measure of how to behave.

"Both Lewis and Jenson were both great World Champions at the time and it's absolutely fantastic to have them both in the same team but Jenson, for me, carries with him just that little bit more maturity," said the 57-year-old.

Fergie Expects City To Be Title Challengers

Alex Ferguson has claimed that he expects Manchester City to mount a realistic title challenge this coming season, both United and City are expected to hit the ground running when the campaign gets underway in August following closely by Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool.

The Scot expects City to be a thorn in United’s flesh this season and Fergie acknowledges that United will have to play at their best if they are to reach their 20th Premier League title, City have emerged as realistic challengers for major honours since Sheikh Mansour's takeover of the club and heavily investing in the team.

He said: "There was a period not so long ago when City were actually in the second division and they were never a thorn in our flesh.

The Manchester United manager also went on to add; "Whereas every year in the past we've had to contend with Arsenal, Chelsea or Liverpool.

"But winning a trophy does you a power of good. I don't think there's any doubt about that. It takes the pressure off the manager and gives confidence to the players.

"We've experienced it ourselves over the years and we expect City to be challengers next season.

"But nothing changes. One of the teams will always be a thorn in our flesh, whether we like it or not - possibly all four of them."

Ferguson also believes that Liverpool, who have endured a difficult time of late, will be back to their best under Kenny Dalglish this season.

He added: "Liverpool went off the radar for a bit. They are now back on it.

"Long term you know they are going to there."

Ferguson has also reiterated his desire to maintain his position in the United hot seat and has played down speculation that he could retire soon, when speaking about if he looking for retire soon he added;  "Absolutely not,"

"Not at all. I'm not even thinking about it. You just have to keep going.

"The challenge, whether it's with young players or old players, is that you have to do something. There's always that expectation at this club."

Shay Given Joins Aston Villa

Shay Given has earlier completed his move from Manchester City to Aston Villa; Given put pen to paper signing a five-year deal at Villa Park, while the goalie was seeking first team action. Shay Given found his opportunities limited at City last season due to the form of current England goalkeeper Joe Hart.

Aston Villa had been on the lookout for a goal keeper after their goalie Brad Friedel departed for Tottenham Hotspur.

Aston Villa released a statement saying "Aston Villa  are delighted to confirm that Shay Given will be unveiled tomorrow (Tuesday) as the club's new goalkeeper, having agreed a five-year deal to June 2016.

"The 35-year-old Republic of Ireland international completed a medical over the weekend and the formality of his signing this morning.

"He will be available for Thursday's friendly fixture against Walsall at the Banks's Stadium and for the club's participation in the Barclays Asia Trophy next week."

Ricky Hatton Retires From Boxing

Ricky Hatton has today officially retired from Boxing after 14 years in the business, although the Manchester-born fighter hasn’t fought since 2009 after losing to Manny Pacquiao in Las Vegas the Hitman hasn’t officially came out and declared his retirement until today.

Hatton's retirement is the end of a dramatic career which saw him achieve success at welterweight and light-welterweight level.

Hatton enjoyed a successful career in Boxing with his most notable achievement coming from his win against Kostya Tszyu in 2005 where he won the IBF and Ring Light Welterweight titles in a comfortable victory for Hatton.

Ricky Hatton earned a reputation as one of Britain's most popular sportsmen and one of Britain’s greatest boxers, the Hitman went on to challenge WBC kingpin Mayweather in Las Vegas losing by knockout in the 10th round.

After his first loss in boxing, Hatton returned ring with victories over Juan Lazcano and Paulie Malignaggi before facing pound-for-pound champion Manny Pacquiao.

The two met at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas in May 2009, Hatton was knocked out in the second round to leave the Mancunian with a 45-2, 32KOs record.

Joao Moutinho Happy At FC Porto

Joao Moutinho has claimed that while he is flattered by the interest Chelsea have shown in an attempt to sign him, he has no desire to turn his back on Porto.

New Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas has suggested that he would like to sign the Portuguese international, but the highly-rated midfielder has moved quickly to squash rumours linking him to a move to Stamford Bridge.

"It is good to see my name associated with a great club, but it is also true I am already at a great club, FC Porto, where I will continue to work," Moutinho told O Jogo.

With Andre Villas-Boas leaving the Portuguese giants this summer to take over at Chelsea, media reports had been linking Colombian frontman Radamel Falcao, Brazilian striker Hulk and Portugal international Moutinho with a move to the Blues.

Manchester City Sign Stefan Savic

Manchester City have completed the signing of Stefan Savic from Partizan Belgrade, the player had a trial with Arsenal twelve months ago but Arsene Wenger decided against signing the Montenegro international.

Savic can play as a right back or centre back and joins former Arsenal defender Gael Clichy at Eastlands, The 20-year-old was granted a work permit by the Home Office thanks to his prominence in the Montenegro national team.

"I can't wait to play alongside them and all the other fantastic players we have here.

"It is a dream come true and I'm especially looking forward to meeting Edin Dzeko and Aleksandar Kolarov because they both speak my language and come from the Balkans, too.

"Aleks has already phoned me to welcome to City which makes me feel at home already.

"I watch the Premier League all the time and I know it's the place to be so I am just looking forward to helping this club achieve great things. We have an incredible stadium and I've seen how passionate the City fans are many times on TV.

"Montenegro play England later this year so I'm expecting to have some great banter with the England lads. I'm just really happy to be a City player."

Marcos Senna Rejects Swansea Move

Marcos Senna has turned the chance of playing in the Premier League by rejecting a move to Swansea City, the veteran Spanish midfielder was offered a deal with the Premiership new boys.

The 34-year-old had decided to remain in Spain where he was offered a one-year deal at El Madrigal after his contract expired at the end of the season.

But Senna has since spoken to Brendan Rogers to inform him of his decision to stay at Villarreal.

"I decided to accept the proposal of the Villarreal family and I thank Roig for his confidence," said Senna.

"I am very happy to follow at Villarreal."

Paul Scholes: Nasri Can Replace Me At United

Paul Scholes says that he hopes Arsenal’s Samir Nasri will join Manchester United this summer, Scholes always views the midfielder as the ideal player to replace him at United.

The Frenchman’s future has come under the spotlight recently and media speculation has suggested that he wants to leave the Gunners to win trophies.

Arsenal have gone six season without winning any silverware and Scholes insists that while Arsenal do play attractive football, this doesn’t win trophies.

After Gael Clichy transfer to Manchester City yesterday, Scholes feels that Nasri could well be the next one out the door at Arsenal.

Scholes says he would love to see Nasri playing for United next season, Reports have suggested that the France international is keen to move to Old Trafford  amid claims the Premier League champions will offer £20million for his services.

When asked if Nasri was coming to United, Scholes  said: "I hope so."

Scholes, who retired from football at the end of last season says Sir Alex Ferguson  would "not allow" United to go six years without a trophy.

"They just flatter to deceive," he said.

"They may play the prettiest football, but it doesn't always produce the results they need. It doesn't irritate me that people say they're the best footballing team because while they are doing that, we (United) are winning games.

"They do play the best football to watch at times, but what is the point of that if you are not winning anything? Not only that, they are potentially going to lose their best players in (Cesc) Fabregas, (Samir) Nasri and (Gael) Clichy.

"I don't think our manager would allow this club to go six years without a trophy."

Tiger Woods Pulls Out Of British Open

Tiger Woods has been forced to pull out of the forthcoming British Open, the former World Number One had hoped to be in contention to play at next week's Open Championship at Sandwich.

Woods has been struggling ever since pulling out of the Players Championship with Achilles and knee injuries in his left leg; the American has undergone a rehabilitation program in hope of returning to full fitness to play at the season's third major.

Tiger was advised that it would be best to miss the Championship rather than risk another setback which in-turn could make the injury a lot worse.

"Unfortunately, I've been advised that I should not play in the British Open," Woods stated on his official website.

"As I stated at the AT&T National, I am only going to come back when I'm 100% ready. I do not want to risk further injury.

Having played which the injury before, which has forced the player to be out of action for a while, Woods has now decided to play it safe and wants to return once he is fully fit.

"That's different for me, but I'm being smarter this time. I'm very disappointed and want to express my regrets to the British Open fans."

Woods had hoped to return for the US Open but did not make that and also missed last week's AT&T National.

"In hindsight, I probably shouldn't have competed at The Players, but it's a big event and I wanted to be there to support the tour," added Woods.

"I've got to learn from what I did there and do it right this time and not come back until I'm ready.

"I think my best years are still ahead of me and I'm very confident and optimistic about the future."

Carlos Tevez: I Need To Leave City

Carlos Tevez has once again reiterated that he wants to leave Manchester City, the South American has struggled to settle down at Eastlands and has asked the fans to understand the reason he wants to leave.

Tevez has always insisted that he finds it hard being so far away from his family and that me misses his daughters immensely who live back home in Argentina, in December Tevez submitted a transfer request to the club but shortly after he decided against the decision after clear the air talks were held with the club.

His long term future was always subjected to speculation, but it was inevitable the striker would leave at the end of the season.

Tevez who is currently on international duty with Argentina in the Copa America and he has claimed that when the tournament is over. He doesn’t want to return to Manchester.

"It is with great regret that I have to inform Manchester City  of my wish to leave the club," he said in a statement.

"I would like to state that I have great respect for the club, its supporters and the owner, Sheikh Mansour, who has been nothing other than respectful to me.

Tevez has always insisted that he was 100% committed to the club, but after spending time with his family over the summer. The front man has now declared that he needs to leave the club to be closer to his family.

"I hope that the people understand the difficult circumstances I have been living under the past 12 months, in regards to my family.

"Living without my children in Manchester has been incredibly challenging for me.

"Everything I do, I do for my daughters, Katie and Florencia. I need to be closer to them and to spend more time with them.

"I need them to be happy because my life is about them now. I need to be in a place where they can adapt.

Tevez made 86 appearences while scoring 53 goals at City and he played an important part in City winning the FA Cup and securing a Champions League place for the club this season.

"Being captain of Manchester City, qualifying for the Champions League, winning the FA Cup and finishing as top-scorer last season has made me very proud.

"I hope that most of the City fans will understand that I have given them my all on the pitch and that my dedication to the City cause has been 100% on the pitch.

"I hope I have done my bit to help City continue their progress towards their ambition to be champions of England and to advance in the Champions League.

"I have no doubt that the players and management of City will achieve great success in the future."

Tevez has done his best for the club and always gave 100% to the City cause.

Anyone with children can fully understand that the Argentine player wants to be closer to his daughters. He has been away from home for long periods of time without seeing his family and his decision should be respected by the fans. Tevez has more than paid back the City faithful with his goal ratio for the club.