Lionel Messi insists that he has no interest in competing with Cristiano Ronaldo for the title of the world's greatest player.
Having claimed the last six Ballon d'Or awards between them, the pair
are regularly compared to one another, with their respective merits
discussed at length by players, pundits and fans alike.
However, Messi insists that he has no interest in the perceived
rivalry between the two, explaining that he is not driven by personal
prizes - but club titles.
"Competing with Cristiano? I don't feel like competing with him or
anyone else," he told reporters on Thursday. "It's not about individual
awards; I want to help my team."
Messi's status as one of the finest players of all time has long been
a subject of much debate, too, with some feeling that his failure to
lead Argentina to World Cup glory this summer has undermined the
argument that he ranks higher than Pele or Diego Maradona. Again,
though, the 27-year-old is unconcerned by such matters.
"I don't think about my place in football history," Messi insisted.
"I just want to keep getting better and win trophies with my team."
There was speculation last season that Messi was unhappy at Barcelona, who have not won the Champions League since 2011.
However, the forward insists that he did not think twice about signing a new contract with the club in May.
"Everything went very fast because it was easy," he stated. "I had no doubts about staying.
"This summer we have signed great players, who have adapted very fast to Barcelona. We have a great group now."
Messi also dismissed recent claims that he picks and chooses when he
wants to represent Argentina, and that he was even considering his
future at international level.
"There was some speculation, but I've been called up and I will continue to play with Argentina," the Rosario native declared.
Arsenal 4-1 Galatasaray
Danny Welbeck struck his first-ever hat-trick but Wojciech Szczesny was sent off as Arsenal crushed a disorganised Galatasaray 4-1 in the Champions League.
The England international struck twice in the first half and once more in the second, frequently darting past a hapless back line with clever poked finishes each time.
Alexis Sanchez hit Arsenal's third just before the break, slotting home with precision into the far corner while under pressure in the penalty area, as Arsene Wenger's side registered their first points of the group stage.
It was not a night without problems for the Gunners, though, as midway through the second half Szczesny darted off his line in a vain attempt to snatch the ball from the feet of Burak Yilmaz, succeeding only in fouling the striker, who then put the resulting penalty past substitute David Ospina.
The visitors perked up a little as they tested Ospina but Arsenal could have had more, Santi Cazorla being denied as his prodded finish was narrowly cleared off the line in the dying moments.
Mathieu Flamini, Cazorla and Alexis came into the Arsenal XI as a result of midfield trio Mikel Arteta, Aaron Ramsey and Jack Wilshere sustaining injuries during Saturday's 1-1 draw against Tottenham. The latter was able to take a place on the bench despite his ankle complaint.
Galatasaray captain Selcuk Inan was a late withdrawal due to illness, meaning that Yekta Kurtulus came into midfield as Cesare Prandelli plumped for a 3-5-2 formation to which his side struggled to adapt during a challenging opening period.
Visiting defender Felipe Melo made a vital interception to stop Welbeck getting on the end of Alexis's low 20th-minute cross but the same combination put Arsenal ahead two minutes later.
The Chilean cut in from the left flank and slid a pass through to Welbeck, who peeled off the back of Melo to slot home.
Galatasaray made matters worse in the 30th minute as an ill-judged back header from Aurelien Chedjou sold Melo short and Welbeck left the Brazilian in his wake to finish clinically.
A torrid evening for Melo might have ended early when he was only booked for a two-footed lunge onAlexis but, after a section of the Galatasaray support interrupted proceedings by throwing flares onto the pitch, it was the Chilean winger who ran riot - collecting Mesut Ozil's pass and scorching through the visitors' beleaguered defence to find the bottom corner.
Kurtulus made way for Hamit Altintop at half-time as Prandelli reverted to 4-4-2 but it did little to stem the tide.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain became the latest Arsenal player to torment Melo, forcing Dzemaili to clear from the goalmouth, and the England midfielder was the architect when Welbeck completed his treble. A beautifully judged pass through Alex Telles's legs was collected by Oxlade-Chamberlain's England team-mate, who dinked nonchalantly beyond Muslera.
Pandev's slide-rule pass caught the Arsenal back four flat-footed after an hour and Szczesny darted out to be sent off as he was in last season's second-round loss to Bayern Munich at the Emirates Stadium.
Burak made no mistake from the spot, sending David Ospina the wrong way, although the replacement goalkeeper saved impressively from the goalscorer and Altintop in the final 10 minutes before Cazorla saw an effort chacked off the line by Semih Kaya at the other end.
Galatasaray now have it all to do in Group D - this thrashing following their opening 1-1 draw at home to Anderlecht.
The England international struck twice in the first half and once more in the second, frequently darting past a hapless back line with clever poked finishes each time.
Alexis Sanchez hit Arsenal's third just before the break, slotting home with precision into the far corner while under pressure in the penalty area, as Arsene Wenger's side registered their first points of the group stage.
It was not a night without problems for the Gunners, though, as midway through the second half Szczesny darted off his line in a vain attempt to snatch the ball from the feet of Burak Yilmaz, succeeding only in fouling the striker, who then put the resulting penalty past substitute David Ospina.
The visitors perked up a little as they tested Ospina but Arsenal could have had more, Santi Cazorla being denied as his prodded finish was narrowly cleared off the line in the dying moments.
Mathieu Flamini, Cazorla and Alexis came into the Arsenal XI as a result of midfield trio Mikel Arteta, Aaron Ramsey and Jack Wilshere sustaining injuries during Saturday's 1-1 draw against Tottenham. The latter was able to take a place on the bench despite his ankle complaint.
Galatasaray captain Selcuk Inan was a late withdrawal due to illness, meaning that Yekta Kurtulus came into midfield as Cesare Prandelli plumped for a 3-5-2 formation to which his side struggled to adapt during a challenging opening period.
Visiting defender Felipe Melo made a vital interception to stop Welbeck getting on the end of Alexis's low 20th-minute cross but the same combination put Arsenal ahead two minutes later.
The Chilean cut in from the left flank and slid a pass through to Welbeck, who peeled off the back of Melo to slot home.
Galatasaray made matters worse in the 30th minute as an ill-judged back header from Aurelien Chedjou sold Melo short and Welbeck left the Brazilian in his wake to finish clinically.
A torrid evening for Melo might have ended early when he was only booked for a two-footed lunge onAlexis but, after a section of the Galatasaray support interrupted proceedings by throwing flares onto the pitch, it was the Chilean winger who ran riot - collecting Mesut Ozil's pass and scorching through the visitors' beleaguered defence to find the bottom corner.
Kurtulus made way for Hamit Altintop at half-time as Prandelli reverted to 4-4-2 but it did little to stem the tide.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain became the latest Arsenal player to torment Melo, forcing Dzemaili to clear from the goalmouth, and the England midfielder was the architect when Welbeck completed his treble. A beautifully judged pass through Alex Telles's legs was collected by Oxlade-Chamberlain's England team-mate, who dinked nonchalantly beyond Muslera.
Pandev's slide-rule pass caught the Arsenal back four flat-footed after an hour and Szczesny darted out to be sent off as he was in last season's second-round loss to Bayern Munich at the Emirates Stadium.
Burak made no mistake from the spot, sending David Ospina the wrong way, although the replacement goalkeeper saved impressively from the goalscorer and Altintop in the final 10 minutes before Cazorla saw an effort chacked off the line by Semih Kaya at the other end.
Galatasaray now have it all to do in Group D - this thrashing following their opening 1-1 draw at home to Anderlecht.
PSG BEATS MARSEILLE 2-0
BARCERLONA WIN 4-1 ALMERIA
AC MILAN LOOSE 0-2 WITH JUVENTUS
Getty Images
Carlos Tevez's second-half strike condemned AC Milan to a 2-0 defeat at San Siro as Juventus' unbeatable form continued on Sunday.
After spending most of the first period on the back foot, Juve pounced in the final minutes of the half through Fernando Llorente's close-range strike before Tevez scored spectacularly from distance after the break to confirm a win that moves Antonio Conte's men 11 points clear of Roma.
The result also continues Juve's remarkable run of scoring in every league game this season as goals from both strikers kept them on course for the title.
A home reverse ended Milan's bid for a third straight league victory but they will certainly take heart from their first-half performance in particular, when they could have scored but for a combination of wasteful finishing, a goalline clearance and the presence of Gianluigi Buffon in the Juve goal.
The Rossoneri were without Mario Balotelli through injury but created early openings when Adel Taarabt fired in a long-range effort that Buffon easily dealt with, before Kaka blasted wide.
Tevez and Llorente were back in the starting XI after being rested for the Europa League clash with Trabzonspor and they combined well to fashion an early chance for the visitors, but Tevez shot straight at Christian Abbiati.
The champions should have taken the lead after 18 minutes when Stephan Lichtsteiner met a low cross at the back post, only for Abbiati to produce a fine save.
In a breathless opening, Milan went close to breaking the deadlock after 25 minutes when Kaka saw his first effort saved by Buffon and, although he beat the Italian with the rebound, Leonardo Bonucci cleared off the line.
Milan continued to impress and Andrea Poli wasted a good chance after 32 minutes when he sliced over from 18 yards.
Buffon had to be at his best a few moments later as he made a sprawling save to palm away Riccardo Montolivo's piledriver.
The Bianconeri were under siege and Kaka produced a fine curling effort that forced Buffon into a superb save. Poli should have converted the rebound but fired over.
And the hosts were made to pay for their profligacy a minute later when Lichtsteiner pulled the ball back for Llorente to tap home his 13th of the season
The pace showed no signs of dropping early in the second half. Tevez brushed Adil Rami off the ball before forcing Abbiati into a low save before, at the other end, Taarabt's cross was missed by everybody and Buffon had to parry the ball away.
Juve made the game safe after 67 minutes when Tevez produced a stunning 25-yard strike that flew past Abbiati and went in off the crossbar.
The scoreline could have been even worse for Milan soon afterwards, as Andrea Pirlo and Paul Pogba both hit the woodwork late on, but a third would have been harsh on Milan - who struck the frame of the goal themselves in a frantic finish through Robinho.
After spending most of the first period on the back foot, Juve pounced in the final minutes of the half through Fernando Llorente's close-range strike before Tevez scored spectacularly from distance after the break to confirm a win that moves Antonio Conte's men 11 points clear of Roma.
The result also continues Juve's remarkable run of scoring in every league game this season as goals from both strikers kept them on course for the title.
A home reverse ended Milan's bid for a third straight league victory but they will certainly take heart from their first-half performance in particular, when they could have scored but for a combination of wasteful finishing, a goalline clearance and the presence of Gianluigi Buffon in the Juve goal.
The Rossoneri were without Mario Balotelli through injury but created early openings when Adel Taarabt fired in a long-range effort that Buffon easily dealt with, before Kaka blasted wide.
Tevez and Llorente were back in the starting XI after being rested for the Europa League clash with Trabzonspor and they combined well to fashion an early chance for the visitors, but Tevez shot straight at Christian Abbiati.
The champions should have taken the lead after 18 minutes when Stephan Lichtsteiner met a low cross at the back post, only for Abbiati to produce a fine save.
In a breathless opening, Milan went close to breaking the deadlock after 25 minutes when Kaka saw his first effort saved by Buffon and, although he beat the Italian with the rebound, Leonardo Bonucci cleared off the line.
Milan continued to impress and Andrea Poli wasted a good chance after 32 minutes when he sliced over from 18 yards.
Buffon had to be at his best a few moments later as he made a sprawling save to palm away Riccardo Montolivo's piledriver.
The Bianconeri were under siege and Kaka produced a fine curling effort that forced Buffon into a superb save. Poli should have converted the rebound but fired over.
And the hosts were made to pay for their profligacy a minute later when Lichtsteiner pulled the ball back for Llorente to tap home his 13th of the season
The pace showed no signs of dropping early in the second half. Tevez brushed Adil Rami off the ball before forcing Abbiati into a low save before, at the other end, Taarabt's cross was missed by everybody and Buffon had to parry the ball away.
Juve made the game safe after 67 minutes when Tevez produced a stunning 25-yard strike that flew past Abbiati and went in off the crossbar.
The scoreline could have been even worse for Milan soon afterwards, as Andrea Pirlo and Paul Pogba both hit the woodwork late on, but a third would have been harsh on Milan - who struck the frame of the goal themselves in a frantic finish through Robinho.
Body shape affects memory in older women
A woman's body shape may play a role in how good her memory is, according to a new study.
The more an older woman weighs, the worse her memory, according to research released this week from Northwestern Medicine at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois.
The effect is more pronounced in women who carry excess weight around their hips, known as pear shapes, than women who carry it around their waists, called apple shapes.
The reason pear-shaped women experienced more memory and brain function deterioration than apple-shaped women is likely related to the type of fat deposited around the hips versus the waist.
Scientists know that different kinds of fat release different cytokines -- the hormones that can cause inflammation and affect cognition.
"We need to find out if one kind of fat is more detrimental than the other, and how it affects brain function," said Dr. Diana Kerwin, the lead author of the study and an assistant professor of medicine and a physician at Northwestern Medicine. "The fat may contribute to the formation of plaques associated with Alzheimer's disease or a restricted blood flow to the brain."
The study published in Wednesday's Journal of the American Geriatric Society said, on average, there is a one-point drop in the memory score for every one-point increase in body-mass index -- a ratio of a person's height and weight. The study included 8,745 cognitively normal, post-menopausal women ages 65 to 79.
"Obesity is bad, but its effects are worse depending on where the fat is located," Kerwin said.
The more an older woman weighs, the worse her memory, according to research released this week from Northwestern Medicine at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois.
The effect is more pronounced in women who carry excess weight around their hips, known as pear shapes, than women who carry it around their waists, called apple shapes.
The reason pear-shaped women experienced more memory and brain function deterioration than apple-shaped women is likely related to the type of fat deposited around the hips versus the waist.
Scientists know that different kinds of fat release different cytokines -- the hormones that can cause inflammation and affect cognition.
"We need to find out if one kind of fat is more detrimental than the other, and how it affects brain function," said Dr. Diana Kerwin, the lead author of the study and an assistant professor of medicine and a physician at Northwestern Medicine. "The fat may contribute to the formation of plaques associated with Alzheimer's disease or a restricted blood flow to the brain."
The study published in Wednesday's Journal of the American Geriatric Society said, on average, there is a one-point drop in the memory score for every one-point increase in body-mass index -- a ratio of a person's height and weight. The study included 8,745 cognitively normal, post-menopausal women ages 65 to 79.
"Obesity is bad, but its effects are worse depending on where the fat is located," Kerwin said.
"The study tells us if we have a woman in our office, and we know from her waist-to-hip ratio that she's carrying excess fat on her hips, we might be more aggressive with weight loss," Kerwin said. "We can't change where your fat is located, but having less of it is better."
Sherwood: I need fourth place
Tottenham boss Tim Sherwood has admitted he could be sacked in the summer if he does not lead the club to a Champions League spot.
Spurs have a fine record since Sherwood replaced Andre Villas-Boas at the helm in December, winning five games out of six under their new boss to stay in contention for a top-four spot. However, they remain fifth after Sunday's 3-1 victory away to Swansea City and Sherwood believes it is essential to book a place in Europe's premier competition, suggesting that he may struggle to keep his job if they miss out.
"If the season was to end tomorrow the chairman wouldn't be too happy because we're fifth," said Sherwood, who was handed an 18-month deal by Daniel Levy after Villas-Boas' departure.
"The final league position has to meet the expectations of the club otherwise it's 'Goodbye Charlie'.
"The club need to finish in fourth place. Anything other than that is going to be a disappointment.
"Realistically we should be in and amongst it. But it ain't easy, is it?"
Sherwood has challenged his Tottenham players to keep their good run going until the end of the season, although he would ideally like some of their rivals to start slipping up as well.
He added: "No one seems to be giving any leeway. I keep looking at results thinking 'Surely they're going to drop points here today'. And they don't.
"They were probably looking at us today thinking 'They might slip up at Swansea.' So we're not giving anything away either.
"It's going to go right down to the wire, it's just about keeping that consistency and belief.
"It probably boils down to how you're going to get on against each other."
Emmanuel Adebayor scored twice in the win at Swansea, and Sherwood was full of praise for the striker after another impressive performance.
"It's great," he told Sky Sports. "It's obviously great for the football club and it's great for Ade himself.
"He's flying at the moment and he's enjoying his football. He's playing with a smile on his face and he's finding the back of the net.
"I thought we played well. Even though Swansea were having some chances from distance in the first period and they knocked it around, I thought we ironed it out in the end and got to grips with it."
Juventus must keep winning, warns Llorente
Juventus striker Fernando Llorente has urged his side to keep up their remarkable winning streak following Saturday's 4-2 win over Sampdoria.The former Athletic Bilbao star headed home his eighth league goal of the season as further strikes from Paul Pogba and Arturo Vidal, who got two, made it 12 wins in a row for the reigning Serie A champions.
Llorente admits he is thrilled with the Biancocelesti's current form but has warned they must not allow their level to drop - particularly as they prepare for a Coppa Italia quarter-final with Roma.
"Our team is doing really well as we are - we need to continue along this path. The important thing is winning, and we're doing that well," the Spain international was quoted as saying by Juventus' official website.
"It was important to win today and we've done it. Sampdoria proved difficult opposition and played a great game. They caused us some problems, and [Sinisa] Mihajlovic's men showed the strength they have in their ranks.
"Now it's time for the Coppa Italia. We'll be playing against very strong opposition in Rome."
Madrid pile pressure on Barcelona and Atletico as superb start to 2014 continues
Five games, five wins, 13 goals and none conceded. Real Madrid's superb start to 2014 has dispelled doubts from earlier this season: gone is the defensive disorganisation, so too the midfield imbalance and the lack of cohesion in attack, making way for a solid, structured and free-scoring side. The new year has brought with it a new Madrid - a team that looks increasingly ready to challenge for the biggest prizes.
Coach Carlo Ancelotti has survived the early-season wobbles and criticism from press and fans to sculpt a strong side which has improved gradually but continually. On Saturday, Madrid beat Betis 5-0 in some style to build on their excellent recent results and move level - albeit provisionally - with Barcelona and Atletico at the top of La Liga.
It started, as it does so often, with Cristiano Ronaldo: the Ballon d'Or winner opened the scoring with his latest golazo, a 30-yard missile fired into the top corner at incredible speed - 115 kilometres per hour to be precise. It was no wonder goalkeeper Stephan Andersen didn't even move.
And the Dane was flat-footed again as Gareth Bale made it 2-0 with a fantastic free-kick. before Karim Benzema added another (his 100th Madrid goal) after a fine run and lay-off from the outstanding Luka Modric, Angel Di Maria struck a stunner of his own with a sublime left-footed finish low into the corner from distance and substitute Alvaro Morata made it 5-0 in the closing seconds after Ronaldo's overhead kick fell into his path.
 | IN NUMBERS Madrid's superb start to 2014 |
| 0 | Madrid haven't conceded a single goal in their five games this year. |
| 5 | All five of those matches have been won - against Celta Vigo, Espanyol. Osasuna (twice) and Betis. |
| 7 | Seven different players have scored for Madrid in 2014. |
| 13 | In total, Ancelotti's men have hit 13 goals in their five games this year. |
| 100 | Karim Benzema has now netted 100 goals (in 210 games) for Los Blancos. |
| 500 | Ancelotti has now won 500 games as coach in his time in Italy, England, France and Spain (in 878 matches). |
With the 500th win of his coaching career, Ancelotti continues to make his mark on this Madrid - and they appear to be coming good just when it matters most.
"We should be happy," the Italian said afterwards. "All of the players performed with great concentration - especially at the beginning. We'll sleep well tonight."
With 20 games played, Madrid now have 50 points, the same as Barca and Atleti, with the Catalans in action at Levante on Sunday evening and Diego Simeone's side at home to Sevilla straight afterwards.
"Over to you, Messi" screamed Sport on their front page on Sunday, urging the Argentine to inspire his side and keep Madrid at bay in the race for the title. With los Blancos back on form and Neymar now sidelined, Leo's return is a big boost.
Not so long ago, Madrid were six points off the pace and then, only last weekend, five back. But the draw between Barca and Atleti in the 19th round saw Ancelotti's side move right back into contention. And their win on Saturday now means there is no margin for error at all at the top of the table.
The return of Xabi Alonso in midfield has seen Real regain the balance they were lacking earlier on in the campaign, while Modric has gone from strength to strength alongside the Basque midfielder. "His work was excellent," Ancelotti said of the Croat after the game.
Meanwhile, Modric's former Tottenham team-mate Bale was back among the goals after almost two months without scoring and Di Maria's recent problems now seem to have been forgotten as well. The Argentine produced a typically energetic performance, popping up in central midfield and on the flank and adding another great goal. Sulky and sullen just a couple of weeks ago, the former Benfica man is back on board and working for the team.
And then there's the defence. Still missing the injured Raphael Varane, Madrid's back line looks much more concentrated than in recent months and remains unpenetrated in 2014, with Pepe and Sergio Ramos forming an impressive partnership, Marcelo adding discipline to his game and Dani Carvajal improving in the right-back role.
The spectacular football promised by Ancelotti at his unveiling may not be a reality in every game just yet, but recent results have shown this Madrid side are now extremely effective. And if the club can continue on the same path in the coming months, 2014 just may be their year.
Anderson says goodbye to Manchester United 'family'
Anderson has revealed his reasons for joining Fiorentina on loan but thanked those connected with Manchester United for their support during a tough six-and-a-half-year stay.The midfielder made just four appearances under David Moyes this season, and has completed a full 90 minutes just once since the start of last term as he struggled for first-team minutes.
And Anderson says the move to Italy, which includes an agreed price at the end of the loan, was a must as he looked for more regular action but says he will always be a part of the "United family".
"Thank you Manchester United for all you gave to me. It was a pleasure and a proud [sic] to be part of this tremendous club," he wrote on his Instagram page.
"I will never forget my great colleagues and friends, all the amazing people that work in the club and obviously the fantastic supporters, always on my side. Love you all and you always be in my heart.
"Wish you all the best because we always be together United family! Now I have to leave because I really need to play.
"Thank you Fiorentina for this opportunity and for believe me. You won't regret because you trust me 100% and I will give you 100% of dedication, professionalism and quality. Together we will be happy."
Hazard rules out Chelsea exit
Eden Hazard has ruled out a Chelsea exit during January or in the summer, insisting the club is the best place for him to continue progressing.
Jose Mourinho recently hailed the Belgian's form after the midfielder equalled last season's goal tally with his ninth of the season against Hull City last time out.
Hazard says he is aware of speculation surrounding his future, namely links with a move to Paris Saint-Germain, but is only interested in playing under the "paternal" Mourinho.
"I really understand what I have to do; be consistent and score," he told Telefoot. "This is what I get to do now and I'm happy.
"Mourinho has a paternal side. He says intelligent things and gives us the desire to move forward.
"Every transfer window, people tell me that I will leave Chelsea. It is often to Paris Saint-Germain. PSG are a great club but I like Chelsea and there is no chance I will leave during January or in the summer.
"Chelsea is the best place for me to grow."
And Samuel Eto'o is in agreement with Hazard, praising the 23-year-old's more mature approach to football at Stamford Bridge and his ever-increasing importance to Chelsea after struggling at times during his debut term.
"He understood that being present in high-profile games is key to becoming a great player," Eto'o added.
"He must be more decisive. He must look at the team and where he can further improve, be it at Chelsea or elsewhere."
Jose Mourinho recently hailed the Belgian's form after the midfielder equalled last season's goal tally with his ninth of the season against Hull City last time out.
Hazard says he is aware of speculation surrounding his future, namely links with a move to Paris Saint-Germain, but is only interested in playing under the "paternal" Mourinho.
"I really understand what I have to do; be consistent and score," he told Telefoot. "This is what I get to do now and I'm happy.
"Mourinho has a paternal side. He says intelligent things and gives us the desire to move forward.
"Every transfer window, people tell me that I will leave Chelsea. It is often to Paris Saint-Germain. PSG are a great club but I like Chelsea and there is no chance I will leave during January or in the summer.
"Chelsea is the best place for me to grow."
And Samuel Eto'o is in agreement with Hazard, praising the 23-year-old's more mature approach to football at Stamford Bridge and his ever-increasing importance to Chelsea after struggling at times during his debut term.
"He understood that being present in high-profile games is key to becoming a great player," Eto'o added.
"He must be more decisive. He must look at the team and where he can further improve, be it at Chelsea or elsewhere."
Marcelo: Real Madrid cannot afford to relax
Real Madrid defender Marcelo has warned his team-mates they cannot afford to relax after Saturday's 5-0 win over Real Betis. Goals from Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale, Karim Benzema, Angel Di Maria and Alvaro Morata ensured Real went level on points with Barcelona and Atletico Madrid at the summit of La Liga. However, with their title rivals due to play on Sunday, the Brazil international warns Madrid need to maintain their momentum if they are to challenge for the title. "I think that we are the ones that make matches easy or difficult for ourselves," explained Marcelo, after making his 250th Real appearance on Saturday. "We played before the others at the top and we know that we have to keep fighting, working hard and winning matches. We're doing well, but we know that we cannot relax. "It is a dream come true [to reach 250 appearances] but we have to keep moving forward to win titles. "Our aim is always to keep improving." Leaders Barcelona travel to Levante while Diego Simeone's Atletico host Sevilla later on Sunday.
Sam: No Vermaelen or Traore deals
Sam Allardyce does not expect Thomas Vermaelen or Lacina Traore to join West Ham United and says reinforcing his squad is proving “extremely difficult.”
• Brewin: Cabaye sinks Sam
• Thorne: Toon embarrass Hammers
West Ham, who dropped back into the relegation zone on Saturday after a 3-1 home defeat to Newcastle United, have been desperately seeking to make new signings this month to boost their chances of survival.
There had been reports that Allardyce was keen to take Belgium defender Vermaelen on loan from Arsenal, but the Hammers boss accepts that the 28-year-old still has a role to play for the Gunners this season.
“I think under the circumstances at Arsenal, with the situation they're in with the Champions League and cup matches, they've had to use him as soon as any of the two defenders [Per Mertesacker and Laurent Koscielny] are injured,” Allardyce told the media. “I don't think there's any chance we'll get someone of his quality, but it would be nice if we could.”
West Ham have also been looking to strengthen in attack and had hoped to sign Ivory Coast international Lacina Traore on loan from Monaco, having agreed a deal with the Ligue 1 side and even applied for a work permit.
However, it is reported that Everton have since come in for the player and Allardyce now accepts it is “unlikely” the 23-year-old will be heading to Upton Park.
"We're finding it extremely difficult [to bring players in],” he said. "We had a terrible day yesterday [Friday] when I thought a player was signing for us and then I found out he wasn't, but there you go. [Any other club] can apply for a work permit like we did.”
He added: “I'll keep going and hope we get some [new players].”
PA PhotosSam Allardyce is determined to add to this squad this month.
• Thorne: Toon embarrass Hammers
West Ham, who dropped back into the relegation zone on Saturday after a 3-1 home defeat to Newcastle United, have been desperately seeking to make new signings this month to boost their chances of survival.
There had been reports that Allardyce was keen to take Belgium defender Vermaelen on loan from Arsenal, but the Hammers boss accepts that the 28-year-old still has a role to play for the Gunners this season.
“I think under the circumstances at Arsenal, with the situation they're in with the Champions League and cup matches, they've had to use him as soon as any of the two defenders [Per Mertesacker and Laurent Koscielny] are injured,” Allardyce told the media. “I don't think there's any chance we'll get someone of his quality, but it would be nice if we could.”
West Ham have also been looking to strengthen in attack and had hoped to sign Ivory Coast international Lacina Traore on loan from Monaco, having agreed a deal with the Ligue 1 side and even applied for a work permit.
However, it is reported that Everton have since come in for the player and Allardyce now accepts it is “unlikely” the 23-year-old will be heading to Upton Park.
"We're finding it extremely difficult [to bring players in],” he said. "We had a terrible day yesterday [Friday] when I thought a player was signing for us and then I found out he wasn't, but there you go. [Any other club] can apply for a work permit like we did.”
He added: “I'll keep going and hope we get some [new players].”
Aldridge: Reds turned down Coleman
Ex-Liverpool star John Aldridge has claimed his former club rejected the chance to sign Seamus Coleman before he moved to Everton for 60,000 pounds in January 2009.
• Walsh: Reds taught midfield lesson
Writing in his column for Ireland’s Sunday World newspaper, Aldridge said Coleman was offered to Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez before he sealed his move to Everton from League of Ireland side Sligo Rovers.
Coleman has since emerged as one of the most valuable attacking full-backs in the Premier League, with Aldridge saying Liverpool missed a trick in failing to snap him up.
“If Rafael Benitez had been a little more open-minded during his final year as Liverpool manager, Seamus Coleman could be wearing a red shirt at Anfield last night and not a blue Everton jersey,” Aldridge wrote.
“Back in my days as Tranmere manager, Liverpool-born Paul Cook was one of the players in my squad and he went on to manage Sligo Rovers during a period when a young Coleman emerged through the ranks and started to make a name for himself in the League of Ireland.
“Paul knew this kid was top drawer and he rang some contacts at Liverpool and tried to encourage them to take a look at Coleman, but Benitez rejected his advances and said he wasn’t interested. What a mistake that proved to be.
“Everton stepped in with an offer of just 60,000 pounds to sign Coleman and he has now established himself, in my eyes at least, as the best full-back in the Premier League this season.
“Every time I see him, I can’t help but lament what might have been for Liverpool because at a time when my old club are crying out for a quality attacking full-backs, we only have to look across Stanley Park to see who could and should have been doing that job right now.”
Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers has hinted in recent weeks that he is looking for reinforcements in the right-back position.
PA PhotosSeamus Coleman is rated as one of the Premier League's finest full-backs.
Writing in his column for Ireland’s Sunday World newspaper, Aldridge said Coleman was offered to Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez before he sealed his move to Everton from League of Ireland side Sligo Rovers.
Coleman has since emerged as one of the most valuable attacking full-backs in the Premier League, with Aldridge saying Liverpool missed a trick in failing to snap him up.
“If Rafael Benitez had been a little more open-minded during his final year as Liverpool manager, Seamus Coleman could be wearing a red shirt at Anfield last night and not a blue Everton jersey,” Aldridge wrote.
“Back in my days as Tranmere manager, Liverpool-born Paul Cook was one of the players in my squad and he went on to manage Sligo Rovers during a period when a young Coleman emerged through the ranks and started to make a name for himself in the League of Ireland.
“Paul knew this kid was top drawer and he rang some contacts at Liverpool and tried to encourage them to take a look at Coleman, but Benitez rejected his advances and said he wasn’t interested. What a mistake that proved to be.
“Everton stepped in with an offer of just 60,000 pounds to sign Coleman and he has now established himself, in my eyes at least, as the best full-back in the Premier League this season.
“Every time I see him, I can’t help but lament what might have been for Liverpool because at a time when my old club are crying out for a quality attacking full-backs, we only have to look across Stanley Park to see who could and should have been doing that job right now.”
Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers has hinted in recent weeks that he is looking for reinforcements in the right-back position.
Schalke play down Draxler rumours
Schalke general manager Horst Heldt has played down the prospect of Julian Draxler joining Arsenal.
• Mangan: Draxler swoop?
Germany international Draxler, 20, will be allowed to leave Gelsenkirchen at the end of the season if a club pays his 45.5 million euro release clause.
Arsenal have regularly been linked with a move for the attacking midfielder and Arsene Wenger has said he is “curious” about him, although he stopped short of confirming an interest.
Heldt has now told Der Westen that he is unaware of any interest from Arsenal and the player has not asked to leave.
He said: “I have not been told that Julian would like to leave us, either in the winter of the summer. There have not been any requests from any club regarding Julian.
“It boils down to wild speculation, which has been happening in England. The clubs would have to tell us if they were interested.”
Arsenal have also been linked with a move for Juventus striker Mirko Vucinic, who appears to be free to leave Turin.
• Mangan: Draxler swoop?
Germany international Draxler, 20, will be allowed to leave Gelsenkirchen at the end of the season if a club pays his 45.5 million euro release clause.
Arsenal have regularly been linked with a move for the attacking midfielder and Arsene Wenger has said he is “curious” about him, although he stopped short of confirming an interest.
Heldt has now told Der Westen that he is unaware of any interest from Arsenal and the player has not asked to leave.
He said: “I have not been told that Julian would like to leave us, either in the winter of the summer. There have not been any requests from any club regarding Julian.
“It boils down to wild speculation, which has been happening in England. The clubs would have to tell us if they were interested.”
Arsenal have also been linked with a move for Juventus striker Mirko Vucinic, who appears to be free to leave Turin.
GOOGLE DEVELOPS CONTACT LENS THAT CAN MONITOR GLUCOSE LEVELS
Google has developed a contact lens that contains a glucose sensor, antenna, capacitor and a chip designed to help those with diabetes. The lens, which doesn’t restrict eyesight, takes glucose readings twice every second and sends the information to an external monitoring device via radio frequencies.
In a blog post on the matter, Google outlined the need for such a device. With one in 19 people on the planet dealing with diabetes, it can become like a part-time job to manage. Glucose levels change frequently throughout the day and must be kept in check at all times via painful blood drop tests, etc.
The team at Google [x] wondered if they could help and came up with the contact lens in question. It’s comprised of chips and sensors that look like bits of glitter and an antenna that is thinner than a human hair. The lens doesn’t rely on batteries but instead is able to get power from the monitoring device via, you guessed it, radio frequencies.
According to project lead Brian Otis, future models may even include a light source built into the lens that would let wearers know the status of their glucose levels without having to look at the external monitoring device. This could be activated when the wearer closes their eyes, for example.
Google said they are in discussions with the FDA regarding the device but admit there is still a lot of work that must be done before the technology can be brought to market.
BBC WORLD TV'S PRESENTER DIES
BBC TV presenter Komla Dumor has died suddenly at his home in London at the age of 41, it has been announced.
Ghana-born Dumor was a presenter for BBC World News and its Focus on Africa programme.One of Ghana's best-known journalists, he joined the BBC as a radio broadcaster in 2007 after a decade of journalism in Ghana.
Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama said on Twitter that his country had lost one of its finest ambassadors.
BBC Global News Director Peter Horrocks called Dumor a leading light of African journalism who would be deeply missed.
He was "committed to telling the story of Africa as it really is," Mr Horrocks said in a statement.
"Africa's energy and enthusiasm seemed to shine through every story Komla told"."Komla's many friends and colleagues across Africa and the world will be as devastated as we are by this shocking news."
The BBC understands he had suffered a heart attack.
Komla Dumor featured in New African magazine's November 2013 list of 100 most influential Africans. It said he had "established himself as one of the emerging African faces of global broadcasting", who had "considerable influence on how the continent is covered".
James Harding, BBC Director of News and Current Affairs, spoke of Komla Dumor's "singular role in transforming the coverage of Africa". "He brought a depth of understanding, a great deal of courage, a joyous charm and boundless charisma to his work," Mr Harding said.
Komla Dumor had a wide-ranging career as an interviewer and presenter
He graduated with a BA in Sociology and Psychology from the University of Ghana, and a Masters in Public Administration from Harvard University.
He won the Ghana Journalist of the Year award in 2003 and joined the BBC four years later.
From then until 2009 he hosted Network Africa for BBC World Service radio, before joining The World Today programme.
Komla Dumor presenting Africa Business Report in 2009 He travelled across Africa, meeting the continent's top entrepreneurs and reporting on the latest business trends around the continent.
He interviewed a number of high-profile guests including Bill Gates and Kofi Annan.
Last month, he covered the funeral of former South African President, Nelson Mandela, whom he described as "one of the greatest figures of modern history".He anchored live coverage of major events including the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, the funeral of Kim Jong-il, the release of Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit, the Norway shootings and the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton.
In his review of 2013, published last month, Dumor said the passing of Mandela was "one of the moments that will stay with me".
"Covering the funeral for me will always be a special moment. I will look back on it with a sense of sadness. But also with gratitude. I feel lucky to have been a witness to that part of the Mandela story."
'Never flinched'
Meeting Komla Dumor for the first time in Ghana in 2007, BBC chief international correspondent Lyse Doucet said she had noticed how young Ghanaian journalists looked up to him.
He never flinched from asking tough questions, but also loved to share a laugh, she says.
She adds that Komla Dumor had many loves including football, his faith, his family: "He always said 'I just love talking with people'."
Here is a selection of your comments.
Justice Lee Adoboe, Accra, Ghana: Komla was the trail blazer of modern radio journalism in Ghana. He was the icon, most of us local journalists looked up to, for inspiration. May he rest in peace.
Samuel Nyambu, Nairobi, Kenya: As an ardent listener of the BBC, Dumor's voice had become a signature for all news in Africa and my encounter with him on TV matched the energy and enthusiasm that came across while on radio. I will definitely miss him and I condole with his family, his BBC fans and the BBC family. May his soul rest in peace.
Jimbo, Pattaya, Thailand: I loved this enthusiastic and dedicated man. My heart goes out to his family and friends in this tragic time. Hard to believe I will not see his smiling face and down to earth assessments of his home roots, Africa, again. A tragedy and one which I trust BBC will honour and respect to the best of their ability. Amongst all of the BBC's many great and famous human assets, Komla Dumor's name should today be irrevocably established.
Emmanuel, New York City, USA: I first met Komla while we were both students at the University of Ghana around 2000-2001. He was working at JOY FM while still studying at the time. He was affable, friendly and had a good sense of humour. I have also been in the studio with him once as the second highest winner of a radio contest, where he quizzed us for the grand prize a couple of years later. We have spoken on the phone a couple of times and chatted on Facebook once or twice and when he was about to start BBC Focus on Africa TV he asked me to kindly publicise the programme banner with his photo on my profile, and I did. The last time we met, we were both in Addis Ababa in October 2012 at the Second Africa Trade Forum organised by the UNECA. He was there to moderate some of the sessions and I was covering for Ghana Business News. He made a mark on radio journalism in Ghana, and was a great source of inspiration for many Ghanaian youth, especially, those who wanted to get into radio. May his soul rest in peace.
Vanessa Bobai, Ottawa, Canada: Komla was a great man and very passionate about his job. He brought out the best in everything he did. Komla rest in peace you will be greatly missed.
Rickie Davies, Ghana: It is a sad day today, we have lost a talented journalist. I am still in shock. A true representation of Africa, strong, a true gentleman, a go getter. You will be missed Komla.
Beverley Zimba, New York, USA: Komla was like a brother that I never met. That smiling happy face will surely be missed. What a loss! Komla my brother rest in peace.
Charles Okot, Kampala, Uganda: I am really shocked and saddened by the tragic news of the death of Komla Dumor. I watched Komla on Friday evening full of life and humour. Komla always makes me smile in front of the TV. This is a terrible loss for Africa, BBC and the entire world. May his soul rest in eternity!
Jack Wolstenholme, Kranevo, Bulgaria: I am in deep shock, hearing of the early death of Komla Dumor. He added a different aspect on the world's developing stories, somehow making many, pleasant and more understandable, even with sensitive subjects. He will be really be missed by the viewing audience.
Anderson Chinorumba, Gaborone, Botswana: I remember his coverage at the World Cup 2010. The time he took off his shirt to reveal the Ghananian football team jersey he was putting on. He was a light indeed to many particularly African journalists. He will be greatly missed for his tireless efforts in journalism.
Maximus, London: As a fellow Ghanaian I'm saddened to hear the death of Komla Dumor. As a child growing up in Ghana I always listened to his shows on the local radio and when I moved to London I was honoured to have met him in person whilst at work at the Apple Store in White City.
Denise Sangster, San Francisco, California: Mr. Dumor brought to the world the hope, vision, plight, and challenges of Africa in an understandable manner with his unique perspectives, interviews and coverage of stories that no other network covered. I am sorry to learn of his passing. My thanks to his family and BBC for sharing him with the world. My sympathies to his family, friends, colleagues and fans.
FACEBOOK ADDS 'TRENDING' FEATURE TO ITS FEED
Facebook has reportedly introduced a 'Trending' feature from Twitter to its social networking service that would allow users to put spotlight on most popular topics across the network. The 'Trending' feature is familiar to Twitter sphere, where events, places or celebrities are popularized with repeated reference through regular, almost viral tweets on the network. According to Cnet, on Facebook, the Trending shifts the handful of hot topics to the top right-hand corner of the News Feed now, based on users' interests and location. Addition of the feature on Facebook has been done in a bid to compete with rival Twitter to be the primary social space for sharing when news breaks. The report said that the Trending feature has been currently rolled out in select countries including US, UK, India, Canada and Australia, via the Web portal only. Facebook said that it is still testing Trending for mobile, which is of more importance as the company intends to focus more on the platform in future.
SALVATORIAN NUN GIVES BIRTH UNEXPECTEDLY
The 31-year-old mother and her baby boy, who weighs 3.5 kilograms (9 pounds), are doing well and other new mothers in Rieti hospital have begun collecting clothes and donations for her, the reports said.
The nun belongs to the "Little Disciples of Jesus" convent in Campomoro near Rieti, which manages an old people's home and reports said she would keep the baby.
Her fellow nuns were quoted saying they were "very surprised".
SELENA GOMEZ WILL ONLY DATE JUSTIN BIEBER UNDER ONE CONDITION
A lot of people think Selena Gomez and Justin Bieber are meant to be together, but evidently the "Come & Get It" star will only get back with her ex-boyfriend under one condition: He has to work on his manners!
According to Yahoo! omg!'s source, "Selena has told him 'no romance without new manners.' Selena is an old-fashioned southern girl from Texas and believes in manners and good behavior. She's told Justin that he has to mend his ways if they are to start seeing each other regularly again."
Even though the two spent a lot of time apart, the source said Selena has never stopped being attracted to Justin, saying, "She just wants some pleases [and] thank yous, as well as some good behavior if things are to get serious again." With the serious trouble he's been in lately, hopefully things work out between the two.
'I WILL NOT LEAVE MADRID' - MORATA
Alvaro Morata pledged his future to Real Madrid after helping them thrash basement side Real Betis 5-0 on Saturday.
Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale, Karim Benzema and Angel Di Maria struck before Morata netted in the final minutes to clinch a deserved win.
And despite being linked to a number of foreign outfits recently, the 21-year-old is eager to stay put at the Santiago Bernabeu and fight for his place.
"Despite everything that is being said, I'm happy here. I want to stay," he told reporters after the match.
"I have spoken with the coach and the club, and I talk every day with my team-mates. I have been at this club for my whole life and it is the best in the world.
"The best are here and I want to help when I am needed. If I have to help by playing a few minutes here and there, I’ll do it, but it’s even better if I get a few more.
"There are a lot of things being said, but I want to stay here and keep working hard and improving."
Victory in Seville saw los Blancos go top of the table beside Barcelona and Atletico Madrid for the first time this season, and Morata took heart from the performance his team had shown.
"I am very happy about scoring, but more about winning," the striker continued.
"It was an important match because we played before the other two teams at the top of the table and things soon went our way with Ronaldo’s goal. We had to win and then see if they drop points."
Barcelona face the trip away to Levante next while Atleti host European candidates Sevilla at the Vicente Calderon on Sunday.
Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale, Karim Benzema and Angel Di Maria struck before Morata netted in the final minutes to clinch a deserved win.
And despite being linked to a number of foreign outfits recently, the 21-year-old is eager to stay put at the Santiago Bernabeu and fight for his place.
"Despite everything that is being said, I'm happy here. I want to stay," he told reporters after the match.
"I have spoken with the coach and the club, and I talk every day with my team-mates. I have been at this club for my whole life and it is the best in the world.
"The best are here and I want to help when I am needed. If I have to help by playing a few minutes here and there, I’ll do it, but it’s even better if I get a few more.
"There are a lot of things being said, but I want to stay here and keep working hard and improving."
Victory in Seville saw los Blancos go top of the table beside Barcelona and Atletico Madrid for the first time this season, and Morata took heart from the performance his team had shown.
"I am very happy about scoring, but more about winning," the striker continued.
"It was an important match because we played before the other two teams at the top of the table and things soon went our way with Ronaldo’s goal. We had to win and then see if they drop points."
Barcelona face the trip away to Levante next while Atleti host European candidates Sevilla at the Vicente Calderon on Sunday.
CARZOLA KEEPS ARSENAL ON TOP
GettyImagesSanti Cazorla scores his first goal against Fulham.In the buildup to the match, Arsene Wenger spoke about the rich variety of midfield options at his disposal. Throughout the season, he has been able to rotate and cover for absentees without any discernible drop in quality. With that in mind, the likes of Tomas Rosicky, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain or even Lukas Podolski might have imagined they would be handed an opportunity to start. However, Wenger made the surprising decision to stick with the same XI who faced Aston Villa earlier this week. Even Nacho Monreal was retained at left-back ahead of the fit-again Kieran Gibbs.
- Delaney: Three Things - Arsenal v Fulham
Wenger presumably decided there was no need to change a winning team. However, the victory at Villa was not entirely convincing, and unfortunately Wenger's team appeared to retain the lackadaisical manner that almost proved their undoing at Villa Park. Arsenal's first-half performance was a precise microcosm of the sloppy display the Gunners produced in the Midlands.
In the opening exchanges, Arsenal looked so superior that it seemed inevitable that they would win by a considerable margin. However, that dominance soon allowed the rot of complacency to set in. Simple passes began to go astray. Even when the ball did find its target, the sharpness of Arsenal's control was not present.
Mesut Ozil's performance typified a lacklustre first-half. His first touch is usually immaculate. However, in the first 45 minutes, he twice miscontrolled when under no obvious pressure.
It speaks volumes that Arsenal's most impressive performers in the opening half were the defensive trio of Mathieu Flamini, Laurent Koscielny and Wojciech Szczesny. They seemed to be showing the urgency that was so lacking in their attacking teammates.
Szczesny in particular had to be alert to make three crucial interventions: one flying save and two darting interceptions. Were it not for his urgency and alertness, Arsenal could have gone in at half-time trailing.
Perhaps Wenger had some stern words in the dressing room. As soon as Arsenal emerged for the second half, there was a newfound directness in their play. Only a series of goal-line clearances prevented Arsenal nudging ahead, as Bacary Sagna, Laurent Koscielny and Serge Gnabry were denied in quick succession.
When the breakthrough eventually came, it was Santi Cazorla who got the goal. The Spaniard instigated a neat move that ended with Jack Wilshere cutting the ball back toward the penalty spot. Cazorla duly arrived to side-foot calmly into the corner with his right foot.
Within five minutes, Cazorla had sealed the win with a second. This time, he demonstrated his ambidextrous gifts, firing a low shot in to the bottom corner with his supposedly weaker left foot. Few players in the Premier League share Cazorla's ability to strike the ball so well on either side.
Last season, Cazorla was voted Arsenal's Player of the Year by a considerable majority. However, in 2013-14, he has been somewhat overshadowed by the likes of Ozil and Aaron Ramsey. This brilliant brace suggests that the Spaniard might be coming in to form as Arsenal gear up for the crucial half of their title challenge.
From the moment Cazorla's second strike hit the net, the game was effectively won. The latter stages were enlivened by an electric cameo from Lukas Podolski. Podolski has struggled for game time in recent weeks, and was spotted shaking his head in frustration after being overlooked as a sub at Villa Park. This time, his reaction was precisely the opposite. When the German was eventually called from the touchline to come on as a substitute, he turned to the Arsenal fans and pumped his fist in delight.
However, his impact was not confined to cheerleading. Within moments of entering the field, a goal-bound effort was blocked by a last-ditch sliding tackle. Shortly afterwards, a venomous strike from range was turned onto the post. Podolski did not get the goal he craved, but he made his point emphatically.
A year or so ago, it would have seemed unthinkable that Manchester City would be considered the league's great entertainers, and Arsenal the model of consistency. Nevertheless, it's turning out that way. If the Gunners can continue their relentless form, City's beguiling attacking play may yet prove to be in vain.
Bayern see out break with a loss
On his birthday, Bayern coach Pep Guardiola certainly longed for the earlier days of the Winterpause with Munich's 2-0 victory over Al-Merrikh and an 8-0 destruction of Kuwait SC. Instead, as the tune-up match to the Rueckrunde, Bayern Munich got beat down by Red Bull Salzburg, 3-0, in what was a wholly unsatisfying performance ahead of next Friday's tricky game at Borussia Moenchengladbach.
In his postgame interview, Guardiola would say: "From now on, no more talk about whether there is a team that can beat Bayern. If you play badly, anyone can beat you."
Bayern were without the services of Bastian Schweinsteiger, Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery, and Guardiola would send out an experimental line-up with Javi Martinez at right-back to disastrous effect. You can't fault Martinez, really. He's not got the pace to play wide. And all things for the initial 45 minutes came down his flank.
Salzburg opened their account on 15 minutes when Kevin Kampl released Senegalese forward Sadio Mane into space -- splitting the defence -- as he composed himself to drive past Manuel Neuer. A half-chance from Mario Goetze and Thomas Mueller would follow, but Die Roten Bullen doubled their lead as Dante caught Mane late in the box just five minutes later; captain Jonathan Soriano getting Neuer on the ensuing penalty.
Sensing that things were not going well (!!!), Guardiola moved David Alaba to left-back for defensive stability, and Bayern would get a good look at goal only to be thwarted by a miscommunication between Xherdan Shaqiri and Mueller. However, Die Roten could not stem the Salzburg tide as the hosts added a third a minute before the break -- Mane leaving Martinez down the right and crossing to an unmarked Robert Zulj.
And although Bayern Munich came out in the second half with more intensity -- perhaps finally trying to take this friendly seriously -- it would be all-for-naught as the world champions could never seem to quite get their head in the game. Mario Mandzukic replaced Goetze and Rafinha came in for Martinez, but Salzburg was still getting the better run of play.
Mane went over the bar, and Soriano got a save out of Neuer, before Red Bull keeper Peter Gulacsi made his first save of the day from Mandzukic.
Mueller was rightly called offside for what would have been Bayern's opener, before Boateng came in late on Valentino Lazaro -- Neuer saving Kampl’s penalty shot.
And speaking of Neuer...
He did what he does best, coming well out of the box twice in the dying minutes of the match, saving his defence from further embarrassment.
It wasn't pretty, to be sure, but we all know -- by now -- that Guardiola is content to tinker in matches that he thinks are unimportant. And in the grand scheme of things, this was, after all, a friendly. Without using the word "complacent" -- as I'm more inclined to think of heavy legs from rigorous training in Doha -- one has to wonder of the psychological impact of this beat down ahead of the second half.
Here's to a response like the one after Arsenal last season!
In his postgame interview, Guardiola would say: "From now on, no more talk about whether there is a team that can beat Bayern. If you play badly, anyone can beat you."
Bayern were without the services of Bastian Schweinsteiger, Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery, and Guardiola would send out an experimental line-up with Javi Martinez at right-back to disastrous effect. You can't fault Martinez, really. He's not got the pace to play wide. And all things for the initial 45 minutes came down his flank.
Salzburg opened their account on 15 minutes when Kevin Kampl released Senegalese forward Sadio Mane into space -- splitting the defence -- as he composed himself to drive past Manuel Neuer. A half-chance from Mario Goetze and Thomas Mueller would follow, but Die Roten Bullen doubled their lead as Dante caught Mane late in the box just five minutes later; captain Jonathan Soriano getting Neuer on the ensuing penalty.
Sensing that things were not going well (!!!), Guardiola moved David Alaba to left-back for defensive stability, and Bayern would get a good look at goal only to be thwarted by a miscommunication between Xherdan Shaqiri and Mueller. However, Die Roten could not stem the Salzburg tide as the hosts added a third a minute before the break -- Mane leaving Martinez down the right and crossing to an unmarked Robert Zulj.
And although Bayern Munich came out in the second half with more intensity -- perhaps finally trying to take this friendly seriously -- it would be all-for-naught as the world champions could never seem to quite get their head in the game. Mario Mandzukic replaced Goetze and Rafinha came in for Martinez, but Salzburg was still getting the better run of play.
Mane went over the bar, and Soriano got a save out of Neuer, before Red Bull keeper Peter Gulacsi made his first save of the day from Mandzukic.
Mueller was rightly called offside for what would have been Bayern's opener, before Boateng came in late on Valentino Lazaro -- Neuer saving Kampl’s penalty shot.
And speaking of Neuer...
He did what he does best, coming well out of the box twice in the dying minutes of the match, saving his defence from further embarrassment.
It wasn't pretty, to be sure, but we all know -- by now -- that Guardiola is content to tinker in matches that he thinks are unimportant. And in the grand scheme of things, this was, after all, a friendly. Without using the word "complacent" -- as I'm more inclined to think of heavy legs from rigorous training in Doha -- one has to wonder of the psychological impact of this beat down ahead of the second half.
Here's to a response like the one after Arsenal last season!
Mourinho side-steps the gap but not the battle
The contrast was so stark that Jose Mourinho was always going to find it difficult to side-step the question -- but he still tried his best.
On Friday, it was put rather bluntly to the Portuguese -- last season, Manchester United finished 14 points ahead of Chelsea; this season, they are nine points behind. It is quite a swing, so what’s the reason?
It was, of course, an invitation to either criticise a club said to have overlooked him or an opportunity to appraise his own team. Mourinho, however, was never going to indulge.
“Football,” he simply answered. “It happens in football. There are no two equal seasons.”
• Worrall: A devil of a time
• Okwonga: Balancing act for David Moyes
• Top Tenner: Man United-Chelsea battles
In this case, it must be said, there are not two equal managers. The reality is really rather simple. United lost one of the greatest in history but it was Chelsea who appointed another one.
The rest is mostly just noise, but Mourinho was mostly unwilling to contribute. The Portuguese kept up his conspicuous stance of being as polite as possible about United and David Moyes; that the former Everton manager is definitely the right man for the job; that they’ll definitely finish in the top four. He even backed Ferguson in the debate about the squad Moyes has been left with, but insisted the team have no issues.
“They must show me their garbage box. If United have an average squad, wow...”
There were only two moments when he offered a bit of a twist.
The first was when he subtly changed his account of knowing about Ferguson’s retirement. In June, Mourinho said he had known “for months”. On Friday, he said he only knew a few weeks before the announcement.
Although the Chelsea manager also derided the Spanish book claim that he cried when he didn’t get the United job, the account did confuse the timeline surrounding Ferguson’s replacement and -- at the very least -- raised more basic questions about how Mourinho would have performed in the role.
The second was the throw-away bombshell that he felt United would seek to sell Wayne Rooney to a foreign club in the summer, implying inside knowledge.
Both issues have predictably dominated the pantomime build-up to this fixture but, for once, they may also be relevant as regards who will dominate the match itself by the end.
Most obviously, there is the clash between the two managers.
While it remains very difficult to fairly judge Moyes at present given the unique context of Ferguson’s retirement, it is even more difficult to argue a manager like Mourinho would not have had a superior effect.
For all his flaws, he is one of the few in world football with the presence to perfectly handle replacing Ferguson. That is largely because, exactly like the former United manager, he has a supreme capacity to keep any team at a competitive level. This season, that has kept Chelsea so close to the leaders, despite a series of miserly performances.
United, by contrast, have been so much more uncertain.
The key for this fixture, however, is that the home side have been capable of sufficiently bolstering that winning baseline in the biggest games. The majority of Chelsea’s best and most commanding displays have come against direct rivals, not least the supreme first-half response in the 2-1 win over Liverpool.
While the 0-0 draw away to United was a notable exception, those around Cobham have spoken about how much has changed since then. At first, one Chelsea source said Mourinho was surprisingly slow to find his feet with a largely unfamiliar squad. Now, it is completely different. They speak of him being back to his most assured.
It is reflected in his demeanour, and the performances.
Most tellingly, Mourinho said he would approach that early stalemate differently.
“It's not about them. It's about us. In this moment, I feel my team is living a good moment, playing with some stability. The team is quite confident with the ball. Normally we are dominant and have possession of the game. It's an evolution in a certain direction. If the game was at Old Trafford now, I'd go in a different way. But that was the first away game of the season, at Old Trafford and important not to lose. In the end, a point was not a bad point. It's always a point.”
The worry for United is that Mourinho could also have a specific point to target. If Chelsea can isolate and impede Michael Carrick with a three-man block, and then swarm in behind him through their attackers, this could get uncomfortable for United.
That would not be so much of an issue if Moyes had Rooney or Robin van Persie to give Chelsea a problem of their own to think about and thereby pin them back but, as it stands, United look a little too reliant on Adnan Januzaj and in a relatively predictable way.
As it stands, unless Moyes can suddenly work out a way to have Januzaj and Danny Welbeck coalescing gloriously, it feels like United are going to have to muster the kind of resilience displayed against Arsenal in November.
For his part, that defiance was one of Moyes’ finest qualities at Everton. Mourinho similarly acknowledged that, just when everything about a game seems to be tilting in a certain direction, football can find that fascinating way to divert things.
“I'm in the game for too long. I've played dozens of derbies and classic matches, matches between the big teams, and this is what experience says. More than that, many times on many occasions, the team that looks to be in the most difficult situation is the team that appears stronger in that match. That's why I consider this game especially dangerous for us.”
Whatever about side-steps, victory will ensure one team make a significant step forward and the other a considerable one back.
On Friday, it was put rather bluntly to the Portuguese -- last season, Manchester United finished 14 points ahead of Chelsea; this season, they are nine points behind. It is quite a swing, so what’s the reason?
It was, of course, an invitation to either criticise a club said to have overlooked him or an opportunity to appraise his own team. Mourinho, however, was never going to indulge.
“Football,” he simply answered. “It happens in football. There are no two equal seasons.”
• Worrall: A devil of a time
• Okwonga: Balancing act for David Moyes
• Top Tenner: Man United-Chelsea battles
In this case, it must be said, there are not two equal managers. The reality is really rather simple. United lost one of the greatest in history but it was Chelsea who appointed another one.
The rest is mostly just noise, but Mourinho was mostly unwilling to contribute. The Portuguese kept up his conspicuous stance of being as polite as possible about United and David Moyes; that the former Everton manager is definitely the right man for the job; that they’ll definitely finish in the top four. He even backed Ferguson in the debate about the squad Moyes has been left with, but insisted the team have no issues.
“They must show me their garbage box. If United have an average squad, wow...”
There were only two moments when he offered a bit of a twist.
The first was when he subtly changed his account of knowing about Ferguson’s retirement. In June, Mourinho said he had known “for months”. On Friday, he said he only knew a few weeks before the announcement.
Although the Chelsea manager also derided the Spanish book claim that he cried when he didn’t get the United job, the account did confuse the timeline surrounding Ferguson’s replacement and -- at the very least -- raised more basic questions about how Mourinho would have performed in the role.
The second was the throw-away bombshell that he felt United would seek to sell Wayne Rooney to a foreign club in the summer, implying inside knowledge.
Both issues have predictably dominated the pantomime build-up to this fixture but, for once, they may also be relevant as regards who will dominate the match itself by the end.
Most obviously, there is the clash between the two managers.
While it remains very difficult to fairly judge Moyes at present given the unique context of Ferguson’s retirement, it is even more difficult to argue a manager like Mourinho would not have had a superior effect.
AllsportJose Mourinho's determination kept Chelsea on track despite an inconsistent start to the season.
United, by contrast, have been so much more uncertain.
The key for this fixture, however, is that the home side have been capable of sufficiently bolstering that winning baseline in the biggest games. The majority of Chelsea’s best and most commanding displays have come against direct rivals, not least the supreme first-half response in the 2-1 win over Liverpool.
While the 0-0 draw away to United was a notable exception, those around Cobham have spoken about how much has changed since then. At first, one Chelsea source said Mourinho was surprisingly slow to find his feet with a largely unfamiliar squad. Now, it is completely different. They speak of him being back to his most assured.
It is reflected in his demeanour, and the performances.
Most tellingly, Mourinho said he would approach that early stalemate differently.
“It's not about them. It's about us. In this moment, I feel my team is living a good moment, playing with some stability. The team is quite confident with the ball. Normally we are dominant and have possession of the game. It's an evolution in a certain direction. If the game was at Old Trafford now, I'd go in a different way. But that was the first away game of the season, at Old Trafford and important not to lose. In the end, a point was not a bad point. It's always a point.”
The worry for United is that Mourinho could also have a specific point to target. If Chelsea can isolate and impede Michael Carrick with a three-man block, and then swarm in behind him through their attackers, this could get uncomfortable for United.
That would not be so much of an issue if Moyes had Rooney or Robin van Persie to give Chelsea a problem of their own to think about and thereby pin them back but, as it stands, United look a little too reliant on Adnan Januzaj and in a relatively predictable way.
AllsportThe battle between the managers will be just one storyline when Manchester United meet Chelsea.
For his part, that defiance was one of Moyes’ finest qualities at Everton. Mourinho similarly acknowledged that, just when everything about a game seems to be tilting in a certain direction, football can find that fascinating way to divert things.
“I'm in the game for too long. I've played dozens of derbies and classic matches, matches between the big teams, and this is what experience says. More than that, many times on many occasions, the team that looks to be in the most difficult situation is the team that appears stronger in that match. That's why I consider this game especially dangerous for us.”
Whatever about side-steps, victory will ensure one team make a significant step forward and the other a considerable one back.
LIVERPOOL SUFFER FROM BAD DEFENCE
Paul Ellis/AFP/Getty ImagesLuis Suarez wasn't able to get on the scoresheet vs. Aston Villa on Saturday. John W. Henry comes from a sport in baseball where the division between offence and defence is clearer than it usually is in football. Not at Liverpool, however. Even if the nuances of the beautiful game are lost on a businessman with a greater grounding as the owner of the Boston Red Sox, it should be obvious his other sporting investment are terrific going forward and threaten to be terrible at the back.
The 2-2 draw against Aston Villa was an evening to illustrate both aspects of a schizophrenic side. Even with Luis Suarez drawing a rare blank and thus failing to equal a club record of scoring in eight successive games at Anfield, their potency in attack was apparent. Daniel Sturridge's comeback has only spanned 110 minutes and has already yielded two goals. Steven Gerrard's equaliser from the penalty spot was the product of Suarez's elusiveness and, some felt, his cunning.
Only Manchester City have outscored Brendan Rodgers' adventurers, yet they may have the weakest back four in the top eight. It is not merely the fact they have conceded five goals in back-to-back games against mid-table teams, or the reality that it could have been more. It is the manner of the defending that is so damning.
"We were disappointed with the goals," Rodgers said after the match. That ought to be an understatement.
He has changed his tune and is beginning to tout his team as potential champions. It would be a triumph out of keeping with their history. Most of Liverpool's 18 title-winning sides built from the back. This is propelled forwards by the front men, but they cannot always compensate for the chaos behind them.
Liverpool have become accustomed to being tormented by target men over the past 18 months and, with Christian Benteke suddenly revitalised, they were buffeted by the Belgian. They were also outpaced by his speedy sidekick, Gabriel Agbonlahor.
"Unplayable," said the Villa manager Paul Lambert, who deemed Benteke "back to his best." Any time Kolo Toure or Martin Skrtel was isolated against either forward, Anfield was anxious. Yet if none of Rodgers' rearguard acquitted themselves well, the culprit in chief was Aly Cissokho.
AllsportLiverpool continue to score easily but their defensive issues could hold them back from their lofty ambitions. Nor were his predecessors any happier: a former Liverpool player stalked away afterwards saying "it's official; he's the worst left-back we've had," and, if there is considerable competition in recent years for that unwanted tag, the Frenchman's failings were a reason Rodgers altered his tactics after half an hour.
"Tactically we had to change it," the Liverpool manager said. "We went to a [back] three."
Raheem Sterling then spent 10 minutes as a wing-back; it was long enough for him to be in the wrong position when Benteke scored, though he was not the prime offender.
Goalkeeper Simon Mignolet has had a dreadful month; after mistakes against Manchester City, Chelsea and Stoke, another led to Villa’s second goal, when he limply pushed Agbonlahor's cross into Benteke's path. The opener, when the Englishman accelerated away from Toure and centred for Andreas Weimann to score, showed their susceptibility to pace.
It was apparent elsewhere too. Steven Gerrard, supposedly being reinvented as the Anfield Andrea Pirlo, was given a taste of his own medicine as opponents surged past him at will when Villa counter-attacked.
"They put a lot of men around me in the first half," he acknowledged to reporters after the match. "Whenever I got the ball they swamped me and I admit it wasn't one of my better 45 minutes."
When Lucas Leiva was introduced at half-time, Gerrard, whose piercing pass to Suarez led to the disputed penalty, fared better with a natural holding player affording him protection. Undistinguished as his form has been, it is a feature of recent seasons that Liverpool’s record is much worse without Lucas; it deteriorated dramatically in the 2011-12 season after his November injury, while Rodgers' slow start was partly attributable to the Brazilian's absence for much of the first third of his debut campaign.
While the substitute was then substituted, limping off after a clash of knees, Liverpool didn't give themselves a platform to play until he came on.
"We had to change it," Rodgers admitted. "We had to get another body behind the ball."
Lucas had been sacrificed because of Rodgers' commitment to attack. His logic appeared irresistible. In a city indelibly associated with the 'Fab Four' of the Beatles, he unleashed an awesome foursome of his own by starting with Suarez, Sturridge, Sterling and Philippe Coutinho. Yet, Liverpool were overloaded with attackers until one Brazilian replaced another, Lucas taking over for Coutinho.
"If you want to blame anyone, blame me," said Rodgers."I go with my gut feeling. I thought it was an offensive team."
It was, but though Liverpool scored in delightful fashion with Coutinho on the pitch -- Jordan Henderson's lovely flick allowing Sturridge to strike -- they were more coherent in his absence. It is about finding the appropriate balance between defence and attack, something a visitor in the directors' box no doubt noted.
Not Henry, however, but the watching Everton manager Roberto Martinez, whose side visit Anfield on Jan. 28 for the season's second Merseyside derby. The first ended 3-3. On this evidence, the sequel may have a similar scoreline.
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