Video: Arsenal Target Gokhan Inler

In the last few weeks Arsenal have been linked to both Yann M'Vila and Yannick Djalo, and now, talkSPORT have reported that Arsene Wenger may spend £8 million on the Swiss midfielder, Gokhan Inler. The 26 year-old currently plays for the Seria A side Udinese, but speculation has been rife in Italy about his future at the club.

He has been watched by several Premier League clubs since his move to Napoli in 2007 including Liverpool, as Roy Hodgson believed he could replace Javier Mascherano in Liverpool's central midfield before the Englishman's departure. Inler plays in a similar area to Mascherano - a deep lying position just ahead of the defenders, and it is this kind of player that several Arsenal blogs have been suggesting Arsenal buy to guard the defence.

Inler has scored 3 goals this season, one of which was a stunning strike from long range against Napoli as you can see below. However, you may notice the lack of celebration and joy in the players face. Some said that this was a sign of Inler's growing disinterest in playing for Udinese, but the player cleared this speculation up:

"I have many friends in Switzerland who are Napoli supporters and they asked me not to score. Out of respect to them, I responded that way." 

"My heart is black and white and I think I proved that with my performance against Napoli. 

"I'm sorry if I offended anyone, as it was not my intention. Once I got back to the locker room, I shouted my joy and embraced my team-mates.

"My future has absolutely not been decided and I haven't signed for another club."

DBSFootball in association with: http://www.watch-football.tv/football/ - Live Football Streaming.

Wenger is Too Stubborn for His Own Good

What did we learn from Arsenal's draw against Liverpool? No much more than we have seen already from Arsenal and Arsene Wenger. Despite having some fantastic attacking talent in Cesc Fabregas, Samir Nasri and Jack Wilshere - two of which are in the team of the year, they ran out of ideas in the final third, and few clear cut chances were created for a goal scoring opportunity. The best came late on to Robin van Persie, who was thwarted by Liverpool's reliable goalkeeper, Reina - another troubling position that Wenger has been slow to deal with.

We all love Arsenal's play - so many mention it, so many praise their style, so many applaud the passing of the ball and the quick attacking play, but it often gets Arsenal nowhere. In other words, it isn't as effective as Wenger believes it to be. Arsenal must invest in a clinical striker, one that will settle down well in England quickly, and one that is not prone to injuries. Manchester United found one for £6 million in Javier Hernandez, so Wenger doesn't need to break the bank. A free transfer for Chamakh hasn't worked, van Persie has suffered persistent injuries, and Bendtner shows up when he wants to, but blows his own trumpet as loud as anything.

When the whole squad is fit, Arsenal can form a brilliant team, a side which would give any team a real go, and often come out on top. The problem - the problem that Wenger is ignorant to - is that at some point, players will have injuries. In Arsenal's case, a lot of injuries, and with top players out for a long time such as Thomas Vermaelen, as well as injuries which costs players months out like Djourou, van Persie, Szczesny and so on, they are often left with a weak, untested team, playing against a largely fit, capable side. The strength in depth is not there.

Look at Manchester United. Vidic and Ferdinand are the starting centre backs, but if one of them is to suffer an injury, there are plenty of players available to step in. There is Wes Brown - not the greatest, but strong and experienced and ready to step in, Chris Smalling, not the most experienced, but certainly proving capable and reliable, and Jonny Evans, again, not the greatest, but certainly able against tough opposition.

On the other hand, Arsenal had Vermaelen out for the whole season, and were left with only three first team central defenders, two of which are in their debut season; Koscielny and Squillaci - and the latter has not settled in England very well at all and therefore not having the trust from the rest of the team. Then when Djourou suffered a dislocated shoulder - more woe, more problems, and a far weaker back line.

His reluctance to spend has been both praised and criticized by Arsenal fans, but it has cost Arsenal trophies this season. Again. A side with a solid back line, with at least three injury free, top class central defenders, a clinical striker, and a midfield who knew when to pull the trigger, would not have lost the Carling Cup Final to Birmingham City. 

Wenger sticks to what he believes in. He is strong minded, and, because of this, is often delusional - for example not accepting that the penalty Eboue conceded against Liverpool was a foul or worthy of a penalty kick. He will not spend money, which has, and will continue to cost Arsenal trophies. It is good that he is passionate and believes clearly about what he wants, but a man once said "never let your persistence and passion turn into stubbornness and ignorance." 

Wenger must improve his squad this summer, he must not be afraid to dip into the transfer window to add to his team, and with the new billionaire majority shareholder, he surely now has no excuses. He doesn't need to spend the amount Manchester City or Chelsea have, but he needs to spend enough to buy decent back-up for his team. 

Wenger needs his, and Arsenal's priorities sorted. Does he want a trophy at Arsenal or not? Because if he does, he must listen to the concerns of fans, and spend some money or face having to change his whole team set-up. Arsenal will fall behind the pack next season otherwise.

Video: Arsenal 1 - 1 Liverpool - The Penalties

What a finish. A Jamie Carragher injury during the second half saw the injury time soar to 8 minutes, and in the 97th minute, Arsenal won a penalty. It looked to be all over. It looked as if Arsenal would take the points and draw closer to Manchester United at the top of the table. Everyone in the stadium must have thought Arsenal had the win in their pockets when Jay Spearing, who had a fantastic game brought down Fabregas.

For a few minutes, they had that all important goal. But it seems that Emmanuel Eboue - not the sharpest tool in the box at the best of times, felt some sympathy for both Liverpool and Jay Spearing, and, after a free-kick was deflected into the box, he recklessly brought down Lucas. He brought him down in the 102nd minute. 

Wenger was furious, Dalglish was delighted, and the Arsenal fans were positively deflated by yet another League disappointment. Six points adrift of Manchester United, Arsenal have really let this race slip

Arsenal Want Djalo But No New Goalkeeper

Arsenal face Liverpool today in what is a massive game for Wenger's side as they try to close the gap on Manchester United at the top of the Premier League table. Arsenal will therefore be coming up against the goalkeeper that they tried to sign a couple of transfer windows ago, Pepe Reina.

However, that was before Wojciech Szczesny appeared as a solid figure between the white sticks at the Emirates. He has, Wenger believes, turned into a potential number 1 goalkeeper, and, now recovered from the dislocated finger he suffered against Barcelona in the Champions League, he will be out to prove it against Liverpool:

"Szczesny he has the calibre to be a goalkeeper at Arsenal Football Club and we have Fabianski as well."

"Szczesny has the potential [to be No 1]. It will be a fight because Fabianski will be back. We still have Almunia too, he has one year to go [on his contract].

"We can always in mid-season call Jens Lehmann back!" 

From that then, we can take that Wenger will not be delving into the transfer window to purchase a new goalkeeper, as he has all he needs already at the club. From Szczesny's performances this season, that is understandable. Aside from the defensive mishap in the Carling Cup final, he has been blunder free - something his team mates and rivals, Fabianski and Almunia, cannot boast.

Wenger's comments also seems to spell an end to Manuel Almunia's Arsenal career. No mention of the Spanish goalkeeper and Arsenal's fans huge general mistrust in him are not promising signs, and with the two Polish youngsters and a possible Lehmann return, he won't be getting many games next season anyway.

But according to some reports, Arsenal will try to improve their team further up the pitch with the signing of Yannick Djalo.

The 24 year-old Portuguese forward currently plays for Sporting Lisbon and has attracted attention from various clubs including Everton, but Arsenal are apparently favourites to sign Djalo who can operate both as a winger and a striker.

Djalo possesses blistering pace and has a strong physical presence, making over 80 appearances for Sporting, scoring 20 goals. Sporting will therefore be expecting to make £8 million for the player who has appeared once for Portugal so far.

Now Arsenal Want £15 million Yann M'Vila

He has been tracked for some time by both Manchester United and Liverpool, but now, the Rennes defensive midfielder is being linked to a £15 million move to Arsenal.

The 20 year old midfielder is highly thought of in France, and teams all over Europe have been said to be watching him in the hope of acquiring his services.

Back in January, the Frenchman, who has been described as a player who possesses "excellent defensive abilities" and "impressive physical strength" said:

"Manchester United is the club of my dreams. It's a very prestigious club and I dream to play for them."

However, some sources claim that Arsenal have sent scouts to watch him in action and are "poised" to table a £15 million bid to bring him to the Emirates. Arsene Wenger is known for his attention to younger prospects, yet he is often criticized for not bringing in experience, which is cited as one of the main reasons for Arsenal's lack of success. It seems then, that Wenger has been doing his homework, as M'Vila's coach said after his debut in 2009: "For a youngster, he has an unusual level of maturity in his game."

A Rennes source said: "We know there are many clubs who want M'Vila but only a big offer will tempt us to sell him. We have not received any official bids."


His qualities are summed up on ESPN's profile on the player: Robust in the challenge, M'Vila is happy to put himself about and fears no-one when it comes to making a tackle. He boasts a fantastic work-rate but is by no means just about lumbering physicality; he possesses superb vision and can be instrumental in building-up attacks from the back.

His contract with Rennes expires in 2014 after signing another extension to his contract in August of 2010.

Watch: Liverpool 3 - 0 Manchester City

The Liverpool fans at Anfield will have sore hands and hoarse throats as they travel home tonight after watching their Liverpool side destroy a poor Manchester City, most notably in the first half as Liverpool lead with a very well deserved three goal lead. It was the first 45 minutes in which Andy Carroll scored a wonderful brace which highlighted his power, dominance over defenders and that he is certainly not a one trick pony, going some way in proving his £35 million worth. Dirk Kuyt also grabbed a tidy goal to compound City's misery who suffered a miserable away day to lose their grip on that all important fourth spot. Liverpool fans had quite a lot to cheer about.

A bright start by Liverpool saw an, as always well supported Liverpool side dominate play, with young players such as Jay Spearing and debutant John Flanagan impressing throughout. Luiz Suarez was, as always, very lively, running between the defence on a couple of occasions, forcing a good save from Joe Hart just before the opening goal, and coming close on other occasions. He didn't get a goal, but there is no doubt he could have as he tormented the City defence all night. 

Andy Carroll's broad smile after scoring his first goal summed up the relief beaming from both him and the fans who have tonight seen the future of their number 9 player, the successor to Fernando Torres who is coincidently still yet to score for his new club, Chelsea. The Englishman said: "The reception I've got from the fans has been great, it's been fantastic since I got here." Talking of his thunderous drive for his unforgettable first goal for Liverpool, he said, "It dropped nicely for me on the edge of the area and I knew I'd hit it (cleanly), and I hit it sweeter than thought."

Liverpool's side since the start of the season has evolved, and the Liverpool fans erupted with joy today as they watched the players perform in a manner in which hasn't been shown very often at all this season. The players were able to control the game and keep the ball in City's half and grab the goals to kill off any threat of a City comeback.

This wasn't helped at all by Carlos Tevez's injury just before Carroll's first goal in which the former Manchester United striker pulled up holding his hamstring. He told the Sky Sports reporter - in sign language as he still struggles with English - that he felt a tear in his hamstring and he thought it was a pretty bad one. That pretty much rules him out of the Manchester United - City clash in the first leg of the FA Cup Semi final on the week end, and could rule him out for the rest of the season.

Liverpool will hope to use today's win as a boost for their week end clash with Arsenal. The Arsenal game is a huge game in terms of the title race, because if Liverpool beat Arsenal, they are all but awarding United's 19th trophy to the Old Trafford side, and seeing United overtake their own league title tally. Arsenal cannot afford another slip up if they are to catch United at the top of the League, and they must take advantage of their game in hand at the Emirates.

Jose Enrique to Liverpool "Deal has been Done"

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

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

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

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

Liverpool Eye Two Dutch Wingers For Carroll

£35 million is a lot of money, and as Liverpool are finding, if you spend it all on one player but don't use his main asset to your advantage, you won't always get your moneys worth. It could be worse though - they could still have Fernando Torres. Anyway, Liverpool will reportedly look to exploit Andy Carroll's heading talents by purchasing two natural wingers - something severely lacking a Liverpool; both Barcelona's Ibrahim Afellay and Hamburg's Eljero Elia.

In October of last year, Afellay, a now 25 year old Barcelona player said:

"Playing in the Premier League would be best for my prestige. I'd like to play for Liverpool or Manchester United , the top-level prospect for any player.

In the January transfer market however, he completed a move to Barcelona - a move which was quite an odd move for the player. Surely if an inexperienced attacking midfielder wanted to play games, they wouldn't attempt to push players like Lionel Messi, Xavi, Iniesta and Sergio Busquets out of a side by joining Barcelona. Nevertheless, the deal was done, and unsurprisingly, Afellay has since found that his game time has been limited to only 9 League games.

Liverpool held a keen interest in Afellay before his move to the Nou Camp, and as the summer window approaches, talkSPORT claim:

"talkSPORT understands Afellay will speak with officials at the Nou Camp regarding his future in the coming weeks and if there are no assurances over his future, he will be free to leave this summer."

You may ask why Barcelona will want to sell a player they have only just purchased. Some say that it was simply a money making ploy on Barcelona's half. They recognised his potential, and saw that his contract at PSV was almost up, they had a tiny three million euro offer accepted, and signed the player to a long term contract. They now hope to sell him on for a lot more than they bought him for, due to the length of his contract at Barcelona. It's intriguing, but certainly a possibility.

On to Eljero Elia now, and another player that Liverpool were reportedly very close to signing in the January transfer window. His club, Hamburg confirmed a bid was received for Elia, but not from Liverpool, rather Wigan Athletic. However, a £13 million bid for the 24 year-old was quoted in certain publications, and Liverpool remain interested with Damien Comolli eyeing possible promising transfers.

There is no doubting that Elia has potential. In 2009 he was awarded the Johan Cruijff Award for "Young Player of the Year" in the Netherlands - an award that has previously been won by Arsenal legends Dennis Bergkamp and Marc Overmars as well as Robin van Persie, Arjen Robben and Rafael van der Vaart.

It seems Elia's services will be available in the summer too, as Hamburg's Technical Director Bastian Reinhardt admitted that he would be available if a “good offer” was submitted:

"In sporting terms we would like to keep him. But when we receive a good offer..."

So, this may be music to Andy Carroll's and Liverpool fans' ears. Next season may see the start of a new Liverpool, thriving on wingers' crosses into the box to be headed down expertly by the big Englishman to the predatory Luiz Suarez to finish with a goal. It looks like a recipe for success. But Liverpool need the investment first.

A Passionate Rivalry Fuelled by Desire to Win

Ryan Giggs once said that the fixture between Liverpool and Manchester United is "probably the most famous fixture in English football". The veteran United player was speaking from experience - vast experience, and if anyone between the two sides still playing knows how deeply intense and important a game between the two sides is, it is Giggs. He has won 11 Premier League medals during his 21 years at Old Trafford, and under Sir Alex Ferguson, has equalled Liverpool's record for League titles.

18 titles each, and the end of the season is on the horizon. Neither side have relived their glory days this season, and, in Liverpool's case, have seen their quality dive to an unexpected and very unwelcome low under Roy Hodgson. Replaced by Liverpool legend Kenny Dalglish, and their form picked up, but such was their deficit of the leaders, that they now have no chance of catching either United or Arsenal at the top of the table and preventing their North West rivals from taking that 19th title.

The record means "so much" according to Rooney. The young United striker may not have as deeply rooted loyalty to United than Ryan Giggs has possessed over the passed two decades, but his past with Everton has fuelled his contempt for the Reds. He said yesterday that winning the 19th title for United would mean not only so much to United fans, but Everton fans too, who love to see their rivals suffer. 

"I grew up an Everton fan so to be part of the team to overtake Liverpool's record would be brilliant. It would mean so much to us players as well as the fans.

"It is something I have been thinking about a lot. I know all the Everton fans want us to do it and hopefully we can. You look forward to every game at this stage and you've got to enjoy it, especially when you are in the running for a few trophies. It is exciting for the fans and it's exciting for the players knowing that you are just a few weeks away from possibly winning a major trophy or two."

Liverpool's modern team have, as it is well known, failed to win a Premier League title, and in the meantime, United have succeeded at the pinnacle of the League table time after time, even winning the title three times in a row from 06/07 to 08/09. Liverpool have only been able to watch United succeed with gritted teeth - only coming close in the 08/09 season when they achieved their highest points total of 86 which was still not enough to overcome United. 

Players feel this rivalry, as Rooney showed in the quote above. Gary Neville, recently retired from United had a stunning passion for beating Liverpool, and as a result became a massive hate figure for Liverpool fans. This kind of fiery, hot-blooded conflict between players and opposing fans create that fantastic atmosphere in games. Much like Roy Keane's hatred for both Arsenal, and losing moulded the way in which the United - Arsenal games were played.

Steven Gerrard too, a talismanic figure for Liverpool who has often carried the team when many of the team dragged their heels with laziness is involved in this fight of the North West. The captain of Liverpool inspires his side at times admirably, but his main ambition to win a Premier League title has so far failed, and as he gets older, this achievement looks more and more unlikely. Gerrards banning of any Manchester United shirts in his house really sums up this burning rivalry.

Just as it means "so much" to Wayne Rooney and indeed I am sure, Ryan Giggs, it means a great deal to fans of both sides who live to see their respective teams succeed, and defeating their rivalry along the way. Whether there ferocious tackles, dubious decisions, last gasp goals or referee criticism, this is a rivalry that will continue with the same burning passion and interest for a long time. 

Watch: Sunderland 0 - 2 Liverpool

Dirk Kuyt Penalty:


Luis Suarez Goal:


Liverpool added another three valuable points to their tally under Kenny Dalglish with a good win against a Sunderland side who were rather unlucky throughout the match. Despite being the home side, many decisions went against the team in red and white stripes much to the vocal displeasure of the Sunderland fans. Injuries were also a factor with both Sulley Muntari and Kieran Richardson being substituted with knocks within the first 20 minutes.

The opening goal came as a result of a penalty. Originally awarded as a free-kick outside the box by the referee, he changed is mind after being prompted by his linesman. The outrage from the Sunderland manager Steve Bruce was evident, and his mood wasn't improved when Kuyt expertly slotted the ball into the corner of Mignolet's net.

There were however no questions asked about the second. Luis Suarez gave aother glimpse of what is to come inhs Liverpool career with a super strike from an impossible angle toseal the game and take the three points back to Anfield. Later he was subjct of a last man challenge from John Mensah which saw the defendr given a straight red to compounds Sunderland's misery.

Liverpool bounced back from the mid week loss and ejection from the Europa League, and continue some good form in the Premier League.

It's Best It Ended When It Did for Liverpool

Liverpool crashed out of the Europa League at the hands of Braga on Thursday as the Reds failed to overturn a one goal deficit which they suffered in Portugal last week. I say "crashed out" - it would be far more suitable to compare the failing to a slow, tiresome burning out and eventual gentle stop rather than eventful, action packed full car chase ending in an exploding and manic "crash". I watched the match, and in hindsight I wished I hadn't.

If Kenny Dalglish's long term future relies on the upcoming performances and results in matches, then this was indeed worrying for him and his future. Of course he is probably the best choice for Liverpool as long term manager - having the full and undying support from the fans is and will be vital - but this performance, much like all of Liverpool's European performances this season, have been uninspiring and just plain boring. Fair enough if you get the end result, but when your not even getting a goal against the 6th place Portuguese League side, you know there are problems.

The fact that Andy Carroll started for Liverpool had pundits and commentators alike, excited beyond belief with the idea that long balls would be expertly nodded down by the big man for either Cole or Meireles to smash home. It actually conspired that Joe Cole was woeful as he has been during his short Liverpool career so far. I hesitate in blasting Cole who is obviously a quality player, but he did pretty much nothing against Braga to warrant £90,000 a week. This is, after all, a player whom Steven Gerrard compared to Lionel Messi when he first signed for Liverpool.

Carroll started his first game for Liverpool and couldn't get into the game. The team lacks the ability to cross from the wings, with Johnson often being the main provider. Johnson was coincidental swiftly closed down whenever he received the ball in a dangerous position as if to emphasise the danger of his and Carroll's combination. Carroll did what he does though - getting his head on anything he can and occasional holding the ball up well when he found it at his feet. He ran and ran, copying the template of the tireless Dirk Kuyt, but in this case, it was to no avail.

It was best it ended here though. Lets face it, Liverpool with this team had no chance of winning the competition when other teams in the competition have far more creativity and spark than the Reds do without the very important but cup-tied Luiz Suarez. It was a toothless display from Liverpool who can now concentrate on their domestic and far more important competition of the Premier League. They will be fighting for a place in the Europa League next year so they can bore us all over again. Joy!

Nani Speaks About Carragher Tackle & Why he Cried

Nani has spoken. The Manchester United winger was the victim of a horrendous challenge from Jamie Carragher at Anfield when United met Liverpool. The incident was well publicised and overshadowed the Liverpool win in which United were outplayed. Rivals fans to United questioned the seriousness of the injury and suggested that United fans were using the tackle to cover up a poor performance.

Whatever the case, there is no denying that the tackle warranted a red card, and as Nani says here, his tears immediately after the tackle came as a result of him believing his season was over. The deep gash on his shin was clear for all to see, but Nani was still criticized for shedding tears. The recently returned Portuguese said:

“When I saw my leg for the first time, I thought my season was finished. That is why I was crying.

"Afterwards, the doctor saw my leg and said I had been lucky because it just needed stitches and I would be out for two or three weeks. He is surprised that I could recover even quicker.”

Nani was slightly hesitant in taking on the left back on his return to action after the injury against Marseille, but he recognises that the physical side is to be expected in the English Premier League:

"English football is like that. It is about making tackles.

“The fans enjoy it. I always finish the game sore because I have had three or four tackles on the same part of my ankle.”

However, despite accepting the physical side of the game, he agrees with most logical football fans when he says the Carragher tackle should not be accepted. Nani said:

"I don’t know what Carragher was thinking but I do know what he did was not football.”

 “He came to apologise after the game. But I was not happy. It is the second time he injured me. Before, he put me out of the game for two months. He always tackles like that. I don’t want protection. I just want the referees to be fair. If it is a red card, they have to give it. If they give the card, the next time the player doesn’t make the tackle.”

Rumours have arisen recently stating that Nani has asked his agent to look for clubs in Italy for a possible transfer. This was however dismissed by the 24 year-old who said on his official Twitter account that he had "seen some false reports on the press. I want you to know that you will hear the truth from me. Love MU".

So we will be seeing a lot more of Nani in the future then. Perhaps no the immediate future though, with him admitting to being a doubt for the Old Trafford clash with Bolton this Saturday:

"I played against Marseille but maybe I couldn't play tomorrow because I have so many injuries. My leg is OK [but] it is not 100% and the confidence is not the same.

"I know players always like to tackle me, so I have to be careful. That is why my football was not the best. But it is great to be back. Now I am just thinking about the next game when I think I will be much better."

M'Vila to United & Marveux to Liverpool

Yann M'Vila and Sylvain Marveux are said to be on their way to England this summer in the form of two of the top Premier League clubs, Manchester United and Liverpool.

The 20 year-old Frenchman Yann M'Villa is a defensive midfielder who plays at Ligue 1 for Rennes and has been described as a player who possesses "excellent defensive abilities" and "impressive physical strength".
He announced his love for Manchester United earlier this year:

"Manchester United is the club of my dreams. It's a very prestigious club and I dream to play for them."

Now, news sources are reporting that Sir Alex Ferguson sees him as the perfect replacement for the injured Owen Hargreaves. M'Vila has been linked to Liverpool, Tottenham and Real Madrid and is very highly rated in France so his club will be expecting around £15 million for him.

On to Liverpool's target and Sylvain Marveux is apparently "very close" to an agreement with Liverpool about a transfer in the summer. The 24 year-old versatile midfielder has been quoted as saying:

"I am very close to reaching agreement with Liverpool about joining them next season"

He can play in a number of positions in the midfield but is mostly played on the left side of midfield or in a further advanced position more centrally. Last season, Marveaux played 28 times in all competitions, scored 12 goals, and assisted 5. Liverpool have lacked a real winger in recent years, so Marveux, who seems quite eager about a move would be a good addition to Dalglish's Liverpool side.

He will be out of contract at his current club Rennes by the end of the season, so Liverpool will be able to pick him on a Bosman.

Valencia Back for Arsenal Game - Nani Out

It will come as no surprise that Nani will miss the Arsenal game on the weekend after the horrible tackle that he was the victim of which left him with a gaping wound on his shin. Apparently, the injury was worse than originally expected, and the Portuguese's injury swelled up so much, that they couldn't stitch it up to close the wound. This means that the influential creative spark in United's average midfield may be out for up to a month rather than a few games.

That bad news is countered with the report from the Daily Mail which claim that Antonio Valencia, who, as I'm sure everyone is sick of hearing, broke his leg against Rangers (terrible game) over half a year ago, "is likely to be in Manchester United’s squad to face Arsenal".

This is of course fantastic news, and the strikers will be delighted that Valencia could be back to deliver some sumptuous balls into the box for their predatorial instincts to strike home. He was left out of Wednesday's reserve game against Blackpool in which he was expected to play, as apparently, United didn't want to risk him on such a bad quality pitch.
On Monday Valencia played a 30 minute a half game for the youth team.

I'm quite worried however about United's midfield to play against Arsenal. It doesn't sound like Valencia will start, and Nani and Park are out, laving only Giggs as the natural winger. He wouldn't threaten the opposition with his speed, while Fletcher who could play on the right isn't the most adventurous of attackers anyway. Rooney may play on the wing, and Hernandez and/or Berbatov starting up top.

Surely United can't lose three in a row? Arsenal's Jack Wilshere hopes so - even off the back of the beating they got from Barcelona:

"We know Manchester United are a great team, but they have a European game next week, so they might play a weakened side, then we can go there and take advantage of that."

Meanwhile, Sir Alex Ferguson broke his media silence with this:

"Last season they (Arsenal) faded around the February to March period to leave Chelsea and ourselves in a two-horse race that saw us pipped at the post by a point.

"I think most pundits expected to see something similar this season, plus a challenge from Spurs and Manchester City to make it even more difficult for Arsenal to get back up to the top.

"But Arsene Wenger and his players have rearranged the pecking order somewhat to come storming through to lie in second place.

"Clearly they represent the main danger to us achieving our ambitions in a revival of the rivalry of a few years ago, and I am sure they regard us as the major threat to their hopes."

He had no excuses for the abysmal display at Liverpool in which United lost 3 - 1. Manchester United will be hoping for the good of their season and their teams morale, that the depressingly bad performance at Liverpool is not repeated against Arsenal this weekend.

Nani Injury: Not How big the Cut is, its Where it was

Luis Nani's leg has been the most debated subject in football this weekend. Why wasn't it a red card? Is his injury that bad? Why did he get up and complain? Are the pictures photo shopped? Should Nani have been booked for diving?

Well, I'm sure someone has said the last one, but the fact is, a lot of people are missing the point. I have seen so many comments saying how Nani was pathetic to cry while others would have got up and carried on playing. This is a comment on one website showing the image of Nani's leg:

"I’ve fractured my leg before


I’ve dislocated my shoulder before


I’ve dislocated my elbow and broke my arm before


I’ve not cried in all of them"

I mean - come on. Who cares? This isn't about crying or not crying, this is about the scandalous decision not to send Jamie Carragher off for a blatant assault on Nani. It was a disgrace of a tackle, so sickening, so dangerous that no matter which way you look at it, tears or no tears, a red should have been shown. The fact that Carragher received only a yellow for the tackle, while Edwin van der sar received the same punishment for simply expressing his understandable exasperation at the decision is a joke.

I cannot understand how people can attempt to excuse it, or even play down the injury which some claim to be photo shopped. Again, it does not matter how deep the wound is, it is the height of the tackle which is the despairing part of it. There is no argument for Carragher to stay on the pitch.

Forget about photo shop, forget the excuses, look at the tackle, not the result of it.

Meanwhile, Nani thanked his fans on Twitter for their support:

Picture: Nani Injury After Disgusting Carragher Tackle

Not for the faint hearted.

This is what had Luis Nani in tears and stretchered off during the Liverpool game.

Jamie Carragher recieved a yellow card for this.

Watch Match Highlights

Match Report Here

Nani's Response to Incident on Twitter

Read what Nani had to say on Twitter after incident

Nightmare Day for United as Liverpool Cruise to Victory

Watch the Match Highlights Here

What a bad game that was for Manchester United. Seeking to take advantage of an Arsenal slip up to Sunderland was not going to be easy against a rejuvenated Liverpool side, but no one would have predicted such a poor performance and miserable result for Ferguson to ponder.

After a good start from Liverpool, United got hold of possession, and started to control the game. The first goal changed it all, and after that, frustration showed, with tackles flying in from every angle, culminating in four yellow cards at the end of the first half.


Three very very avoidable goals were conceded, all falling to the fortunate but as always hard working Dutchman Dirk Kuyt - inside the six yard box every time. The first saw Luiz Suarez carve open the makeshift United defence with complete ease, passing into the path of Kuyt lurking on the line for an easy tap in. All United had to do was stop Suarez. They didn't.

Next, and Nani grabbed another assist for the season, as he temporarily forgot which side he was playing for, unhelpfully nodding the ball back into the United area rather than clearing it, for Kuyt to pounce with an easy header to finish. Nani was then rewarded by Liverpool with a knee-high challenge from Jamie Carragher which saw the winger have tears streaming down his face as he was stretchered off to boos from the Anfield crowd. Rather ungrateful seeing as he just helped you to a win, isn't it?

The cherry was placed firmly onto the Reds delicious (for them) cake, when a Luiz Suarez free kick was parried away by van der sar only to the feet of - guess who - Dirk Kuyt. His first ever Liverpool hat trick, and a hat trick that had come at the worst possible time for Manchester United, as they now had to climb a momentous mountain to come back from three goals down.

The consolation came late on, and was a matter of way too little, way too late. Take nothing away from the classy finish from the excellent Javier Hernandez whose header was placed perfectly into the corner after a difficult and massively frustrating day at the office, this little guy will see a lot more goals in this fixture in the future. No doubt.

It was a terrible display from United, who do not move six points clear of Arsenal, but instead stay just the three points ahead, knowing that Arsenal have a vital game in hand.

A goal for United early in the first half would have changed everything. A breakthrough would have lifted the team, and given some belief to work with. As it was however, the team looked noticeably uninspired all game, and could muster nothing to respond to the three goals that meant anything in terms of the game. The Hernandez goal may prove valuable in the long run in relation to goal difference, but it won't lighten my spirits too much.

No creativity - again a phrase banded around here, but it is true. I am quietly pleased that once again the midfield failed to grab hold of the game by the scruff of the neck, as it may open Ferguson's eyes to the obvious need of some creative midfielders and a holding player. United really will fall behind the pack next season if this isn't sorted.

Arseal will be delighted with this result, and will have breathed a sigh of relief after their goalless draw yesterday. The Gunners will now be able to see that as one point gained rather than two lost, and give them the confidence to push on and overtake the wavering United, who have now lost two on the bounce.

That Arsenal - Manchester United game is looking more and more pivotal in this title race, and after this result may well decide which way this title swings. Hopefully United will have sorted themselves out by then.

Watch: Liverpool 3 - 1 Manchester United

Manchester United suffered in what was one of their worst performances this season - and there has been a few. Below are the match highlights. Match thoughts are to follow.

First Half Highlights



Second Half Highlights

Arsenal Will Rely on Suarez & Carroll for Tomorrow

Arsene Wenger's stony expression pasted on his appalled faced was clear for all to see as he trudged down the tunnel at the Emirates, knowing his side had wasted a glorious chance. The chance to close the gap to just one point on United had been fought for fiercely, but against a resilient Sunderland defence that United's own Steve Bruce had organised, the Gunners could not break through.

All they needed was a goal, but it just wasn't to be. It was just one of those days- all teams have them - when that goal simply doesn't come, and it is unfortunate for Arsenal that it came today, at a crucial time in their season. Five goals in midweek against Leyton Orient meant nothing against a Sunderland defence which was in a different class to that of Orient's.

Wenger may count him and his side unlucky with some of the officiating as two crucial calls in particular will possibly be questioned. An offside decision late on in the 87th minute was called up for Andrey Arshavin, whilst replay's show that although very borderline, and very close, the little Russian was probably onside and would have been clear through.

A little earlier too, there was a penalty shout for the Gunners, which was denied, as Arshavin went down from a push from Titus Bramble in the box. Arshavin's subsequent shot was an unbalanced one as he hit it wide of the post as a result of the push. Arshavin was clean through, only for Bramble to fall into his back with arms outstretched. This went undetected and the chance was gone.

In the absence of two of Arsenal's best in Fabregas and van Persie, the other players had to step up and fill in. Nasri, Wilshere and Bendtner helped Arsenal to a total of seven shots on target, but none found themselves go beyond Simon Mignolet in the Black Cat's goal, as the away side held on for the point.

Arsenal were never going to overtake Manchester United through a win in this game, obviously because it was mathematically impossible but they would have expected a win against a side who have been struggling recently since the departure of Darren Bent to Aston Villa. A win would have been a significant stride towards their first League title since 2004, especially considering United's tough trip to Anfield tomorrow.

Arsenal’s strikers may have misfired today, but they do have two aces up their sleeve, or rather Kenny Dalglish's sleeve which Arsenal will borrow. Manchester United travel to Anfield with a weakened defence, and will face a Liverpool front line which has recently been boosted by the additions of Suarez and Carroll. Wenger will be hoping the penetrative power of Liverpool will be greater than United's defensive abilities in the absence of Vidic and Ferdinand. If so, the disappointing draw to Sunderland won't look to bad, and rather a point gained than to points dropped.

Steven Defour in Summer Move to Premier League

Steven Defour has been linked to several Premier League clubs including Arsenal, Manchester United and Liverpool and according to his agent, Paul Stefani, it seems the 22 year-old Belgian is soon to be on his way to one of these top teams.

The players agent said:

"He has returned and made a full recovery, so we must keep our fingers crossed for the future, and hope that he doesn’t get a fresh injury.

“Now he has a very big hope that things are going well. Every top club is following him and regularly watching him, but there is no concrete contact.

“The Premier League is something he likes very much, and he has performed well against Liverpool and Everton in Europe, he was one of the best players on the pitch. I think in the summer the Premier League would suit him for sure.”

Last October, talking to talksport, the Standard Liege midfielder said:

"I do know that Manchester United are monitoring me - if everything goes well and I continue playing as I am, there is a better chance of me leaving than there was at the start of the season."

Unied have recently signed both Michael Carrick and Darren Flethcher on new deals, in a show of almost defiance against the transfer window. If those new deals are anything to go by, the central midfielders that Manchester United fans believe that they need so much to add creativity into the side will not be coming in for big fees. Defour is the cheapest option in a pool of players including Nuri Sahin and Marek Hamsik.

Last November, sources close to Defour said this:

"For the last two years Manchester United has been his number one choice and if he plays for Liverpool he is unlikely to fulfil that dream because of the rivalry between the teams.

"He would love to play under [Sir Alex] Ferguson and there may not be another chance if his next move is not to Manchester."