Mike Phillips: Looking to go one step further with the British and Irish Lions
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Tito Vilanova: “Neymar can score, that's something we need”
FOOTBALL Previous Article The manager believes that Neymar will "adjust quickly" to La Liga
Vilanova reiterates that he'll stay on at the Club: “I cannot say it clearer, I cannot say it any louder. There is nothing to clear up. I will be Barça’s manager next season”
The manager also says that Abidal will play against Málaga on Saturday
Tito Vilanova held a press conference this evening after the first team training session. The manager expressed his excitement at being able to field Neymar next season: “he’s a player who can play in different positions, not only on the left wing. He can also play behind the centre forward. We think he’ll adjust nicely, he’s a very talented player. He helps the team defend and tactically we’ll help him adapt to Spanish and European football. We should remember that all the big European teams wanted him and we are certain that he’ll perform at a high level. He can score goals, and that’s something we need.”
No doubt about his future
When asked about his future plans, Vilanova reiterated that he’ll be at the Barça helm next season: “I cannot say it clearer, I cannot say it any louder. There is nothing to clear up. I will be Barça’s manager next season.”
Along these lines, the manager explained that he would have understood if the Club had decided to look for a replacement while he was in New York receiving treatment, and that he’d understand the same decision if the Club looked for a replacement today. But that’s not the case, however. “When someone gets the illness that I had it’s normal for revisions to be made. It’s something the Club knows, I suggested it. No one can know what the future holds. At the moment, the doctors say I should move forward and that’s what I’m going to do.”
The future of Éric Abidal was also another hot topic of discussion during Vilanova’s conference. The manager reiterated that “it was a consensual decision by the Club” to not renew Abidal’s contract. He added: “I feel terrible about it. We know that we won’t find a left-footed centre back with his characteristics, we know that his case is exceptional. I hope he goes to a big club and that he gets the chance to show that he’s able to play at the highest level.”
“It was a consensual decision by the Club and I hope Abidal goes to a big club and that he gets the chance to show that he’s able to play at the highest level”
Vilanova also confirmed that Abidal, who trained with the team this afternoon, will feature against Málaga on Saturday. It will be Abidal’s last match in the Blaugrana strip.
Reinforcing Barça’s defence
Without Abidal, Vilanova explained the need to bring in a new defender next season: “we need to reinforce this position, I’ve always said this. We also hope Puyol can recover well, hopefully he will be able to help us next year.” When asked about the Barça captain, Vilanova noted that it’s strange that some would “doubt his professionalism. He’s the example to follow.”
“As far as I’m concerned there’s no problem with Valdés staying another year, his behaviour has always been exemplary"
Lastly, the manager talked about three members of his team: Valdés, Villa and Thiago. On the goalkeeper, he said, “as far as I’m concerned there’s no problem with him staying another year, his behaviour has always been exemplary." He also admitted that he hasn’t talked with the Asturian forward about his future: “we haven’t spoken with him. My evaluation of his work is very positive.” Finally, when asked about Thiago’s situation, he said, “I can only say that he’s a very valued player. He’s Barça’s future and we’d like it if he stayed, but the decision is his.”
Welbeck concern for England
Welbeck concern for England
Danny Welbeck sat out the main part of England training on Friday night, raising fears the striker would not be fit for Sunday's friendly against Brazil in the Maracana.
Welbeck did not come off the bench in Wednesday's friendly against Republic of Ireland because of a knee injury.
The Manchester United striker took part in the warm-up part of today's get-together, which took place at the Urca military base in Rio, but he sat out the rest of the hour-long open session.
Fellow striker Jermain Defoe is carrying an Achilles problem but he took part in the entire session, which was good news for manager Roy Hodgson, who has already seen Andy Carroll, Daniel Sturridge, Tom Cleverley and Kyle Walker withdraw from the squad to face the Brazilians.
Around 500 spectators watched Friday night's event, which took place in the shadow of Rio's iconic Sugarloaf Mountain.
Fifty male and female members of the British military, who will play a match against their Brazilian counterparts before the main event at the Maracana, posed for pictures with the England squad and management.
Source : http://www.football.co.uk/england/welbeck_concern_for_england_rss4239284.shtml
Danny Welbeck missed most of England's training session in Rio on Friday
Danny Welbeck: Injury doubt for Brazil friendly
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Danny Welbeck has emerged as an early injury doubt for England's friendly against Brazil in the Maracana on Sunday.
The Manchester United striker did not come off the bench during Wednesday's 1-1 draw with the Republic of Ireland due to a knee injury.
And it appears that the 22-year-old is still being troubled by the problem as he missed the main part of England's training session on Friday evening.
Welbeck took part in the warm-up but sat out the rest of the hour-long open session, which took place at the Urca military base in Rio in front of around 500 spectators.
Fellow striker Jermain Defoe is carrying an Achilles problem but he took part in the entire session, which was good news for manager Roy Hodgson, who has already seen Andy Carroll, Daniel Sturridge, Tom Cleverley and Kyle Walker withdraw from the squad to face the Brazilians.
Source : http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/12016/8745497/Danny-Welbeck-missed-most-of-England-s-training-session-in-Rio-on-Friday
Next Live Streaming! Neymar's Day in Barcelona on www.fcbarcelona.com
FOOTBALL Next Article Previous Article On Monday June 3rd at 5:00 PM CET
NEYMAR'S DAY
Bernstein rejects Ferdinand claim
Bernstein rejects Ferdinand claim
Football Association chairman David Bernstein has hit back at Rio Ferdinand's claim that a new coaching strategy is needed for English youngsters.
Just as members of the England squad arrived at a youth development project in Rio de Janeiro, Ferdinand rekindled the argument of English football being in the "Dark Ages" by claiming that changes need to be made to help the next generation of players become stars.
Bernstein told Press Association Sport: "Rio Ferdinand should know that we are putting a huge amount of work in to that (youth development)."
He added: "We are implementing a complete programme of youth development football within the leagues, with the EPPP (Elite Player Performance Plan) system and with the opening of St George's Park. All those things are in hand.
"They are not producing the results yet but they will do. These things take a while as we know but these things are in place there is a huge amount of work taking place and I think potentially we are in a very decent shape.
"I am sure when he reflects on it Rio and others will appreciate that this is happening, it's not talk about what might happen. It is happening, a lot of work is going in to it and a lot of people are working very hard."
The discussion about the state of the English game has been rumbling on since former England striker Gary Lineker published a downbeat tweet on the matter following Wednesday's 1-1 draw against the Republic of Ireland at Wembley.
Manchester United defender Ferdinand, who quit international football earlier this month, was one of the so-called 'golden generation' of English footballers who blossomed at the start of the last decade but failed to deliver on the big stage.
Ferdinand said on Twitter: "[In the] last 10 years when have England played consistently well? A coaching strategy for our young teams/kids needs to be implemented to see change. In most PL teams retaining the ball is done best by foreign players in the team.... they are taught to pass to a man with a man on.
"[The] So-called 'Golden Generation' obviously wasn't because we won nothing! Great players don't always make great teams.''
Source : http://www.football.co.uk/england/bernstein_rejects_ferdinand_claim_rss4238728.shtml
Tito Vilanova press conference
FOOTBALL Previous Article The FC Barcelona first team coach live from the Ciutat Esportiva
Falcao signs for Monaco
Falcao signs for Monaco
Monaco have confirmed they have struck a stunning deal to bring Colombian striker Radamel Falcao to the club from Atletico Madrid.
The champions of France's Ligue 2 are planning an assault on Paris St-Germain's top-flight title next season and see Falcao, rated among the most lethal forwards in world football, as having a key role.
There was no mention of the fee involved in Monaco's statement confirming the transfer, but it was certain to be astronomical, reflecting the interest in Falcao from many of Europe's biggest and wealthiest clubs.
Monaco said on their official website: "Monaco are happy to announce we have reached an agreement with Atletico Madrid and the player Radamel Falcao for the transfer to Monaco beginning with the season 2013-14.
"The Colombian international striker has signed for five years."
Monaco said he would be presented to the media when the club's players return for pre-season training.
Source : http://www.football.co.uk/atletico_madrid/falcao_signs_for_monaco_rss4238465.shtml
Lions 2013: Losing Barbarians game 'not an option'
Lions 2013: Losing Barbarians game 'not an option' 
By Bryn Palmer BBC Sport in Hong Kong The British and Irish Lions kick off their tour on Saturday intent on delivering an early statement to Australia of their ability to win a first Test series since 1997.
The 2013 adventure begins with a contest against the Barbarians in baking Hong Kong, en route to nine matches down under.
Dismissed as "slabs of red meat" in parts of the Australia media, the Lions hope to provide a juicy appetiser in challenging conditions.
"We want to go out and play rugby, and be positive about the way we play," said head coach Warren Gatland. "We will move the ball, we want to score lots of tries. We want to go and show the Australian public what we are capable of.
Continue reading the main story “I wouldn't necessarily expect them to be fantastically in tune but I would expect an intensity that the Barbarians may struggle with” Andy Farrell "But the whole focus is about coming back with a Test series win, and if we need to be pragmatic, then we will do that as well. We feel we have a squad with the ability to play any type of game, whatever conditions are thrown at us."
Eleven players in the starting side at the Hong Kong Stadium will make their Lions debuts as Gatland begins the process of sifting through his options ahead of the three-Test series starting in Brisbane on 22 June.
Asked whether that process, or the outcome, was more important in this opening game however, the New Zealander Gatland was unequivocal: "It is always the outcome."
In other words, despite previously indicating he was prepared to 'drop' a match or two leading up the first Test to ensure they have the right combinations to take on the Wallabies, losing the first game to a makeshift outfit - despite the luminaries at the Barbarians' disposal - is not an option.
The last time the Lions lost their opening match was in 1971, to Queensland on an initial stop-over in Australia. And yet that celebrated squad went on to become the only Lions party to win a series in New Zealand.
They played 26 matches across three months, however. Modern-day tours are short, sharp affairs by comparison where momentum is all-important.
Gatland only effectively has five matches to finalise his best options before that first date with the Wallabies in three weeks. Once he names his side for the final midweek match against ACT Brumbies on 18 June, the die will be cast.
Lions fixture list - Sat 1 June: Barbarians, Hong Kong
- Wed 5 June: Western Force, Perth
- Sat 8 June: Queensland Reds, Brisbane
- Tue 11 June: Combined New South Wales-Queensland Country, Newcastle
- Sat 15 June: New South Wales Waratahs, Sydney
- Tue 18 June: ACT Brumbies, Canberra
- Sat 22 June: Australia, First Test, Brisbane
- Tue 25 June: Melbourne Rebels, Melbourne
- Sat 29 June: Australia, Second Test, Melbourne
- Sat 6 July: Australia, Third Test, Sydney
Each player will only have two or three chances at most to stake a claim, and selection for Saturday's match was almost pre-determined given the unavailability until this week of a 15-strong contingent involved in domestic and European finals.
But that has allowed the rest to get on with some intense conditioning work at their pre-tour training camps in Wales and Ireland, which should prove decisive on Saturday.
"I wouldn't necessarily expect them to be fantastically in tune but I would expect an intensity that the Barbarians may struggle with," said assistant coach Andy Farrell on Friday.
While there are bound to some handling errors and teething troubles on their first outing, any unfamiliarity should be partially off-set by having nine Welshmen in the starting XV who have already played a great deal of rugby together.
There will be particular interest in whether Scotland duo Stuart Hogg and Sean Maitland can bring their pace and penetrative running to bear on proceedings, and if England fly-half Owen Farrell can recover poise and confidence after a patchy end to the season.
If the Barbarians live up to their celebrated tradition and the game develops into an open, expansive affair, the contrasting skills of England prop Mako Vunipola and Wales flanker Justin Tipuric should also come to the fore.
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Tito Vilanova: “Neymar can score, that's something we need”
FOOTBALL Previous Article The manager believes that Neymar will "adjust quickly" to La Liga
Vilanova reiterates that he'll stay on at the Club: “I cannot say it clearer, I cannot say it any louder. There is nothing to clear up. I will be Barça’s manager next season”
The manager also says that Abidal will play against Málaga on Saturday
Tito Vilanova held a press conference this evening after the first team training session. The manager expressed his excitement at being able to field Neymar next season: “he’s a player who can play in different positions, not only on the left wing. He can also play behind the centre forward. We think he’ll adjust nicely, he’s a very talented player. He helps the team defend and tactically we’ll help him adapt to Spanish and European football. We should remember that all the big European teams wanted him and we are certain that he’ll perform at a high level. He can score goals, and that’s something we need.”
No doubt about his future
When asked about his future plans, Vilanova reiterated that he’ll be at the Barça helm next season: “I cannot say it clearer, I cannot say it any louder. There is nothing to clear up. I will be Barça’s manager next season.”
Along these lines, the manager explained that he would have understood if the Club had decided to look for a replacement while he was in New York receiving treatment, and that he’d understand the same decision if the Club looked for a replacement today. But that’s not the case, however. “When someone gets the illness that I had it’s normal for revisions to be made. It’s something the Club knows, I suggested it. No one can know what the future holds. At the moment, the doctors say I should move forward and that’s what I’m going to do.”
The future of Éric Abidal was also another hot topic of discussion during Vilanova’s conference. The manager reiterated that “it was a consensual decision by the Club” to not renew Abidal’s contract. He added: “I feel terrible about it. We know that we won’t find a left-footed centre back with his characteristics, we know that his case is exceptional. I hope he goes to a big club and that he gets the chance to show that he’s able to play at the highest level.”
“It was a consensual decision by the Club and I hope Abidal goes to a big club and that he gets the chance to show that he’s able to play at the highest level”
Vilanova also confirmed that Abidal, who trained with the team this afternoon, will feature against Málaga on Saturday. It will be Abidal’s last match in the Blaugrana strip.
Reinforcing Barça’s defence
Without Abidal, Vilanova explained the need to bring in a new defender next season: “we need to reinforce this position, I’ve always said this. We also hope Puyol can recover well, hopefully he will be able to help us next year.” When asked about the Barça captain, Vilanova noted that it’s strange that some would “doubt his professionalism. He’s the example to follow.”
“As far as I’m concerned there’s no problem with Valdés staying another year, his behaviour has always been exemplary"
Lastly, the manager talked about three members of his team: Valdés, Villa and Thiago. On the goalkeeper, he said, “as far as I’m concerned there’s no problem with him staying another year, his behaviour has always been exemplary." He also admitted that he hasn’t talked with the Asturian forward about his future: “we haven’t spoken with him. My evaluation of his work is very positive.” Finally, when asked about Thiago’s situation, he said, “I can only say that he’s a very valued player. He’s Barça’s future and we’d like it if he stayed, but the decision is his.”
Welbeck concern for England
Welbeck concern for England
Danny Welbeck sat out the main part of England training on Friday night, raising fears the striker would not be fit for Sunday's friendly against Brazil in the Maracana.
Welbeck did not come off the bench in Wednesday's friendly against Republic of Ireland because of a knee injury.
The Manchester United striker took part in the warm-up part of today's get-together, which took place at the Urca military base in Rio, but he sat out the rest of the hour-long open session.
Fellow striker Jermain Defoe is carrying an Achilles problem but he took part in the entire session, which was good news for manager Roy Hodgson, who has already seen Andy Carroll, Daniel Sturridge, Tom Cleverley and Kyle Walker withdraw from the squad to face the Brazilians.
Around 500 spectators watched Friday night's event, which took place in the shadow of Rio's iconic Sugarloaf Mountain.
Fifty male and female members of the British military, who will play a match against their Brazilian counterparts before the main event at the Maracana, posed for pictures with the England squad and management.
Source : http://www.football.co.uk/england/welbeck_concern_for_england_rss4239284.shtml
Danny Welbeck missed most of England's training session in Rio on Friday
Danny Welbeck: Injury doubt for Brazil friendly
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Danny Welbeck has emerged as an early injury doubt for England's friendly against Brazil in the Maracana on Sunday.
The Manchester United striker did not come off the bench during Wednesday's 1-1 draw with the Republic of Ireland due to a knee injury.
And it appears that the 22-year-old is still being troubled by the problem as he missed the main part of England's training session on Friday evening.
Welbeck took part in the warm-up but sat out the rest of the hour-long open session, which took place at the Urca military base in Rio in front of around 500 spectators.
Fellow striker Jermain Defoe is carrying an Achilles problem but he took part in the entire session, which was good news for manager Roy Hodgson, who has already seen Andy Carroll, Daniel Sturridge, Tom Cleverley and Kyle Walker withdraw from the squad to face the Brazilians.
Source : http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/12016/8745497/Danny-Welbeck-missed-most-of-England-s-training-session-in-Rio-on-Friday
Next Live Streaming! Neymar's Day in Barcelona on www.fcbarcelona.com
FOOTBALL Next Article Previous Article On Monday June 3rd at 5:00 PM CET
NEYMAR'S DAY
Bernstein rejects Ferdinand claim
Bernstein rejects Ferdinand claim
Football Association chairman David Bernstein has hit back at Rio Ferdinand's claim that a new coaching strategy is needed for English youngsters.
Just as members of the England squad arrived at a youth development project in Rio de Janeiro, Ferdinand rekindled the argument of English football being in the "Dark Ages" by claiming that changes need to be made to help the next generation of players become stars.
Bernstein told Press Association Sport: "Rio Ferdinand should know that we are putting a huge amount of work in to that (youth development)."
He added: "We are implementing a complete programme of youth development football within the leagues, with the EPPP (Elite Player Performance Plan) system and with the opening of St George's Park. All those things are in hand.
"They are not producing the results yet but they will do. These things take a while as we know but these things are in place there is a huge amount of work taking place and I think potentially we are in a very decent shape.
"I am sure when he reflects on it Rio and others will appreciate that this is happening, it's not talk about what might happen. It is happening, a lot of work is going in to it and a lot of people are working very hard."
The discussion about the state of the English game has been rumbling on since former England striker Gary Lineker published a downbeat tweet on the matter following Wednesday's 1-1 draw against the Republic of Ireland at Wembley.
Manchester United defender Ferdinand, who quit international football earlier this month, was one of the so-called 'golden generation' of English footballers who blossomed at the start of the last decade but failed to deliver on the big stage.
Ferdinand said on Twitter: "[In the] last 10 years when have England played consistently well? A coaching strategy for our young teams/kids needs to be implemented to see change. In most PL teams retaining the ball is done best by foreign players in the team.... they are taught to pass to a man with a man on.
"[The] So-called 'Golden Generation' obviously wasn't because we won nothing! Great players don't always make great teams.''
Source : http://www.football.co.uk/england/bernstein_rejects_ferdinand_claim_rss4238728.shtml
Tito Vilanova press conference
FOOTBALL Previous Article The FC Barcelona first team coach live from the Ciutat Esportiva
Falcao signs for Monaco
Falcao signs for Monaco
Monaco have confirmed they have struck a stunning deal to bring Colombian striker Radamel Falcao to the club from Atletico Madrid.
The champions of France's Ligue 2 are planning an assault on Paris St-Germain's top-flight title next season and see Falcao, rated among the most lethal forwards in world football, as having a key role.
There was no mention of the fee involved in Monaco's statement confirming the transfer, but it was certain to be astronomical, reflecting the interest in Falcao from many of Europe's biggest and wealthiest clubs.
Monaco said on their official website: "Monaco are happy to announce we have reached an agreement with Atletico Madrid and the player Radamel Falcao for the transfer to Monaco beginning with the season 2013-14.
"The Colombian international striker has signed for five years."
Monaco said he would be presented to the media when the club's players return for pre-season training.
Source : http://www.football.co.uk/atletico_madrid/falcao_signs_for_monaco_rss4238465.shtml
Lions 2013: Losing Barbarians game 'not an option'
Lions 2013: Losing Barbarians game 'not an option' By Bryn Palmer BBC Sport in Hong Kong The British and Irish Lions kick off their tour on Saturday intent on delivering an early statement to Australia of their ability to win a first Test series since 1997.
The 2013 adventure begins with a contest against the Barbarians in baking Hong Kong, en route to nine matches down under.
Dismissed as "slabs of red meat" in parts of the Australia media, the Lions hope to provide a juicy appetiser in challenging conditions.
"We want to go out and play rugby, and be positive about the way we play," said head coach Warren Gatland. "We will move the ball, we want to score lots of tries. We want to go and show the Australian public what we are capable of.
Continue reading the main story “I wouldn't necessarily expect them to be fantastically in tune but I would expect an intensity that the Barbarians may struggle with” Andy Farrell "But the whole focus is about coming back with a Test series win, and if we need to be pragmatic, then we will do that as well. We feel we have a squad with the ability to play any type of game, whatever conditions are thrown at us."
Eleven players in the starting side at the Hong Kong Stadium will make their Lions debuts as Gatland begins the process of sifting through his options ahead of the three-Test series starting in Brisbane on 22 June.
Asked whether that process, or the outcome, was more important in this opening game however, the New Zealander Gatland was unequivocal: "It is always the outcome."
In other words, despite previously indicating he was prepared to 'drop' a match or two leading up the first Test to ensure they have the right combinations to take on the Wallabies, losing the first game to a makeshift outfit - despite the luminaries at the Barbarians' disposal - is not an option.
The last time the Lions lost their opening match was in 1971, to Queensland on an initial stop-over in Australia. And yet that celebrated squad went on to become the only Lions party to win a series in New Zealand.
They played 26 matches across three months, however. Modern-day tours are short, sharp affairs by comparison where momentum is all-important.
Gatland only effectively has five matches to finalise his best options before that first date with the Wallabies in three weeks. Once he names his side for the final midweek match against ACT Brumbies on 18 June, the die will be cast.
Lions fixture list - Sat 1 June: Barbarians, Hong Kong
- Wed 5 June: Western Force, Perth
- Sat 8 June: Queensland Reds, Brisbane
- Tue 11 June: Combined New South Wales-Queensland Country, Newcastle
- Sat 15 June: New South Wales Waratahs, Sydney
- Tue 18 June: ACT Brumbies, Canberra
- Sat 22 June: Australia, First Test, Brisbane
- Tue 25 June: Melbourne Rebels, Melbourne
- Sat 29 June: Australia, Second Test, Melbourne
- Sat 6 July: Australia, Third Test, Sydney
Each player will only have two or three chances at most to stake a claim, and selection for Saturday's match was almost pre-determined given the unavailability until this week of a 15-strong contingent involved in domestic and European finals.
But that has allowed the rest to get on with some intense conditioning work at their pre-tour training camps in Wales and Ireland, which should prove decisive on Saturday.
"I wouldn't necessarily expect them to be fantastically in tune but I would expect an intensity that the Barbarians may struggle with," said assistant coach Andy Farrell on Friday.
While there are bound to some handling errors and teething troubles on their first outing, any unfamiliarity should be partially off-set by having nine Welshmen in the starting XV who have already played a great deal of rugby together.
There will be particular interest in whether Scotland duo Stuart Hogg and Sean Maitland can bring their pace and penetrative running to bear on proceedings, and if England fly-half Owen Farrell can recover poise and confidence after a patchy end to the season.
If the Barbarians live up to their celebrated tradition and the game develops into an open, expansive affair, the contrasting skills of England prop Mako Vunipola and Wales flanker Justin Tipuric should also come to the fore.
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Tito Vilanova: “Neymar can score, that's something we need”
FOOTBALLPrevious ArticleThe manager believes that Neymar will "adjust quickly" to La Liga
Vilanova reiterates that he'll stay on at the Club: “I cannot say it clearer, I cannot say it any louder. There is nothing to clear up. I will be Barça’s manager next season”
The manager also says that Abidal will play against Málaga on SaturdayTito Vilanova held a press conference this evening after the first team training session. The manager expressed his excitement at being able to field Neymar next season: “he’s a player who can play in different positions, not only on the left wing. He can also play behind the centre forward. We think he’ll adjust nicely, he’s a very talented player. He helps the team defend and tactically we’ll help him adapt to Spanish and European football. We should remember that all the big European teams wanted him and we are certain that he’ll perform at a high level. He can score goals, and that’s something we need.”
No doubt about his future
When asked about his future plans, Vilanova reiterated that he’ll be at the Barça helm next season: “I cannot say it clearer, I cannot say it any louder. There is nothing to clear up. I will be Barça’s manager next season.”
Along these lines, the manager explained that he would have understood if the Club had decided to look for a replacement while he was in New York receiving treatment, and that he’d understand the same decision if the Club looked for a replacement today. But that’s not the case, however. “When someone gets the illness that I had it’s normal for revisions to be made. It’s something the Club knows, I suggested it. No one can know what the future holds. At the moment, the doctors say I should move forward and that’s what I’m going to do.”
The future of Éric Abidal was also another hot topic of discussion during Vilanova’s conference. The manager reiterated that “it was a consensual decision by the Club” to not renew Abidal’s contract. He added: “I feel terrible about it. We know that we won’t find a left-footed centre back with his characteristics, we know that his case is exceptional. I hope he goes to a big club and that he gets the chance to show that he’s able to play at the highest level.”
“It was a consensual decision by the Club and I hope Abidal goes to a big club and that he gets the chance to show that he’s able to play at the highest level”
Vilanova also confirmed that Abidal, who trained with the team this afternoon, will feature against Málaga on Saturday. It will be Abidal’s last match in the Blaugrana strip.
Reinforcing Barça’s defence
Without Abidal, Vilanova explained the need to bring in a new defender next season: “we need to reinforce this position, I’ve always said this. We also hope Puyol can recover well, hopefully he will be able to help us next year.” When asked about the Barça captain, Vilanova noted that it’s strange that some would “doubt his professionalism. He’s the example to follow.”“As far as I’m concerned there’s no problem with Valdés staying another year, his behaviour has always been exemplary"
Lastly, the manager talked about three members of his team: Valdés, Villa and Thiago. On the goalkeeper, he said, “as far as I’m concerned there’s no problem with him staying another year, his behaviour has always been exemplary." He also admitted that he hasn’t talked with the Asturian forward about his future: “we haven’t spoken with him. My evaluation of his work is very positive.” Finally, when asked about Thiago’s situation, he said, “I can only say that he’s a very valued player. He’s Barça’s future and we’d like it if he stayed, but the decision is his.”Welbeck concern for England
Welbeck concern for England
Danny Welbeck sat out the main part of England training on Friday night, raising fears the striker would not be fit for Sunday's friendly against Brazil in the Maracana.
Welbeck did not come off the bench in Wednesday's friendly against Republic of Ireland because of a knee injury.
The Manchester United striker took part in the warm-up part of today's get-together, which took place at the Urca military base in Rio, but he sat out the rest of the hour-long open session.
Fellow striker Jermain Defoe is carrying an Achilles problem but he took part in the entire session, which was good news for manager Roy Hodgson, who has already seen Andy Carroll, Daniel Sturridge, Tom Cleverley and Kyle Walker withdraw from the squad to face the Brazilians.
Around 500 spectators watched Friday night's event, which took place in the shadow of Rio's iconic Sugarloaf Mountain.
Fifty male and female members of the British military, who will play a match against their Brazilian counterparts before the main event at the Maracana, posed for pictures with the England squad and management.
Source : http://www.football.co.uk/england/welbeck_concern_for_england_rss4239284.shtmlDanny Welbeck missed most of England's training session in Rio on Friday
Danny Welbeck: Injury doubt for Brazil friendly
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Danny Welbeck has emerged as an early injury doubt for England's friendly against Brazil in the Maracana on Sunday.
The Manchester United striker did not come off the bench during Wednesday's 1-1 draw with the Republic of Ireland due to a knee injury.
And it appears that the 22-year-old is still being troubled by the problem as he missed the main part of England's training session on Friday evening.
Welbeck took part in the warm-up but sat out the rest of the hour-long open session, which took place at the Urca military base in Rio in front of around 500 spectators.
Fellow striker Jermain Defoe is carrying an Achilles problem but he took part in the entire session, which was good news for manager Roy Hodgson, who has already seen Andy Carroll, Daniel Sturridge, Tom Cleverley and Kyle Walker withdraw from the squad to face the Brazilians.
Source : http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/12016/8745497/Danny-Welbeck-missed-most-of-England-s-training-session-in-Rio-on-FridayNext Live Streaming! Neymar's Day in Barcelona on www.fcbarcelona.com
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Bernstein rejects Ferdinand claim
Bernstein rejects Ferdinand claim
Football Association chairman David Bernstein has hit back at Rio Ferdinand's claim that a new coaching strategy is needed for English youngsters.
Just as members of the England squad arrived at a youth development project in Rio de Janeiro, Ferdinand rekindled the argument of English football being in the "Dark Ages" by claiming that changes need to be made to help the next generation of players become stars.
Bernstein told Press Association Sport: "Rio Ferdinand should know that we are putting a huge amount of work in to that (youth development)."
He added: "We are implementing a complete programme of youth development football within the leagues, with the EPPP (Elite Player Performance Plan) system and with the opening of St George's Park. All those things are in hand.
"They are not producing the results yet but they will do. These things take a while as we know but these things are in place there is a huge amount of work taking place and I think potentially we are in a very decent shape.
"I am sure when he reflects on it Rio and others will appreciate that this is happening, it's not talk about what might happen. It is happening, a lot of work is going in to it and a lot of people are working very hard."
The discussion about the state of the English game has been rumbling on since former England striker Gary Lineker published a downbeat tweet on the matter following Wednesday's 1-1 draw against the Republic of Ireland at Wembley.
Manchester United defender Ferdinand, who quit international football earlier this month, was one of the so-called 'golden generation' of English footballers who blossomed at the start of the last decade but failed to deliver on the big stage.
Ferdinand said on Twitter: "[In the] last 10 years when have England played consistently well? A coaching strategy for our young teams/kids needs to be implemented to see change. In most PL teams retaining the ball is done best by foreign players in the team.... they are taught to pass to a man with a man on.
"[The] So-called 'Golden Generation' obviously wasn't because we won nothing! Great players don't always make great teams.''
Source : http://www.football.co.uk/england/bernstein_rejects_ferdinand_claim_rss4238728.shtmlTito Vilanova press conference
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Falcao signs for Monaco
Falcao signs for Monaco
Monaco have confirmed they have struck a stunning deal to bring Colombian striker Radamel Falcao to the club from Atletico Madrid.
The champions of France's Ligue 2 are planning an assault on Paris St-Germain's top-flight title next season and see Falcao, rated among the most lethal forwards in world football, as having a key role.
There was no mention of the fee involved in Monaco's statement confirming the transfer, but it was certain to be astronomical, reflecting the interest in Falcao from many of Europe's biggest and wealthiest clubs.
Monaco said on their official website: "Monaco are happy to announce we have reached an agreement with Atletico Madrid and the player Radamel Falcao for the transfer to Monaco beginning with the season 2013-14.
"The Colombian international striker has signed for five years."
Monaco said he would be presented to the media when the club's players return for pre-season training.
Source : http://www.football.co.uk/atletico_madrid/falcao_signs_for_monaco_rss4238465.shtmlLions 2013: Losing Barbarians game 'not an option'
Lions 2013: Losing Barbarians game 'not an option'
By Bryn Palmer BBC Sport in Hong Kong The British and Irish Lions kick off their tour on Saturday intent on delivering an early statement to Australia of their ability to win a first Test series since 1997.
The 2013 adventure begins with a contest against the Barbarians in baking Hong Kong, en route to nine matches down under.
Dismissed as "slabs of red meat" in parts of the Australia media, the Lions hope to provide a juicy appetiser in challenging conditions.
"We want to go out and play rugby, and be positive about the way we play," said head coach Warren Gatland. "We will move the ball, we want to score lots of tries. We want to go and show the Australian public what we are capable of.
Continue reading the main story“I wouldn't necessarily expect them to be fantastically in tune but I would expect an intensity that the Barbarians may struggle with” Andy Farrell
"But the whole focus is about coming back with a Test series win, and if we need to be pragmatic, then we will do that as well. We feel we have a squad with the ability to play any type of game, whatever conditions are thrown at us."
Eleven players in the starting side at the Hong Kong Stadium will make their Lions debuts as Gatland begins the process of sifting through his options ahead of the three-Test series starting in Brisbane on 22 June.
Asked whether that process, or the outcome, was more important in this opening game however, the New Zealander Gatland was unequivocal: "It is always the outcome."
In other words, despite previously indicating he was prepared to 'drop' a match or two leading up the first Test to ensure they have the right combinations to take on the Wallabies, losing the first game to a makeshift outfit - despite the luminaries at the Barbarians' disposal - is not an option.
The last time the Lions lost their opening match was in 1971, to Queensland on an initial stop-over in Australia. And yet that celebrated squad went on to become the only Lions party to win a series in New Zealand.
They played 26 matches across three months, however. Modern-day tours are short, sharp affairs by comparison where momentum is all-important.
Gatland only effectively has five matches to finalise his best options before that first date with the Wallabies in three weeks. Once he names his side for the final midweek match against ACT Brumbies on 18 June, the die will be cast.
Lions fixture list
- Sat 1 June: Barbarians, Hong Kong
- Wed 5 June: Western Force, Perth
- Sat 8 June: Queensland Reds, Brisbane
- Tue 11 June: Combined New South Wales-Queensland Country, Newcastle
- Sat 15 June: New South Wales Waratahs, Sydney
- Tue 18 June: ACT Brumbies, Canberra
- Sat 22 June: Australia, First Test, Brisbane
- Tue 25 June: Melbourne Rebels, Melbourne
- Sat 29 June: Australia, Second Test, Melbourne
- Sat 6 July: Australia, Third Test, Sydney
Each player will only have two or three chances at most to stake a claim, and selection for Saturday's match was almost pre-determined given the unavailability until this week of a 15-strong contingent involved in domestic and European finals.
But that has allowed the rest to get on with some intense conditioning work at their pre-tour training camps in Wales and Ireland, which should prove decisive on Saturday.
"I wouldn't necessarily expect them to be fantastically in tune but I would expect an intensity that the Barbarians may struggle with," said assistant coach Andy Farrell on Friday.
While there are bound to some handling errors and teething troubles on their first outing, any unfamiliarity should be partially off-set by having nine Welshmen in the starting XV who have already played a great deal of rugby together.
There will be particular interest in whether Scotland duo Stuart Hogg and Sean Maitland can bring their pace and penetrative running to bear on proceedings, and if England fly-half Owen Farrell can recover poise and confidence after a patchy end to the season.
If the Barbarians live up to their celebrated tradition and the game develops into an open, expansive affair, the contrasting skills of England prop Mako Vunipola and Wales flanker Justin Tipuric should also come to the fore.
- Wed 5 June: Western Force, Perth
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