Angel di Maria may miss Manchester United's trip to Spurs

Manchester United will await tests on winger Angel Di Maria to see if he has a chance of facing Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday after the Argentine suffered a pelvic injury in training.

London: Manchester United will await tests on winger Angel Di Maria to see if he has a chance of facing Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday after the Argentine suffered a pelvic injury in training.

Record signing Di Maria was injured on Wednesday and ruled out of Friday`s 3-1 home victory over Newcastle United in the Premier League.

He had only just returned from a hamstring injury and played in the 1-1 draw against Aston Villa last week.

"In the last training session he [Di Maria] stepped out of the warm up," manager Louis van Gaal said.

"It was a little bit amazing because he did everything very well but ... now we have to wait and see for the analysis."

There was better news on United`s other injured players, including Belgian midfielders Adnan Januzaj and Marouane Fellaini, as well as Marcos Rojo and Daley Blind.

"All the injuries are coming back," Van Gaal said.

"It is a little bit late for us because now we have to play a lot of games within one week but they are coming back and, within two weeks, I think a lot of players will be back.

"Januzaj is ill. A virus has approached a lot of players but for him it was too much. Also Fellaini ... I think it is the Belgium virus!

"Will he be ready for Spurs? No, he is ill."

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Flamengo confirm Shakhtar friendly

Brazilian football club Flamengo will meet Ukraine's Shakhtar Donetsk in a friendly next month.

Rio de Janeiro: Brazilian football club Flamengo will meet Ukraine's Shakhtar Donetsk in a friendly next month.

The match will be played at Brasilia's Mane Garrincha stadium Jan 18, Flamengo said on their official website Friday, reported Xinhua.

Shakhtar's squad currently includes 13 Brazilians, including Luiz Adriano, the UEFA Champions League's top scorer this term with nine goals.

Flamengo, who finished the 2014 Brazilian Serie A season in 10th place, will begin pre-season training Jan 7.

Shakhtar are currently second in Ukraine's top-flight standings, five points behind Dynamo Kyiv. 

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Arsenal lead race to sign PSG star Edinson Cavani

Zee Media Bureau

New Delhi: English giants Arsenal are leading the race to sign Edinson Cavani from French heavyweights Paris Saint Germain. According to reports, Cavani will cost the Gunners a whooping GBP 50m. Cavani has said to have fallen out with manager Laurent Blanc and is seeking an exit from the club. A move abroad will excite Cavani especially the Premier League.

Cavani has scored 38 goals in 66 appearances for PSG in all competitions. It is reported that the French outfit are ready to accept offers.

Arsenal who bought Manchester United's Danny Welbeck for GBP 16m in the 2014 summer. Yaya Sanogo and Joel Campbell who have seen less playing time could move elsewhere out on loan or in a permanent deal.

Wenger has been criticised over years for failing to get top players and spending less but the Frenchman signed Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez for a combined GBP 75.5m in the last two years.

Sanchez has been the main player for Arsenal this season and have galvanised the team. Another forward Lukas Podolski who has played well in his limited opportunities, is also keen to move on as Inter Milan seem interested.

Meanwhile, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has trashed rumours linking Cavani to Arsenal. Earlier, he had also stated that Podolski will stay at the Emirates and will not be allowed to leave the club. It will be interesting to see what happens from here on.

Arsenal have plenty of options upfront and it is unlikely to see the move happening and Wenger could be interested to spend elsewhere especially in the defensive section.

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James Rodriguez voted Americas' best athlete of the year

Colombian footballer James Rodriguez was voted the best athlete in the Americas by the International Association of Sports Reporters in the Americas (AIPS).

Madrid: Colombian footballer James Rodriguez was voted the best athlete in the Americas by the International Association of Sports Reporters in the Americas (AIPS).

Rodriguez, a mid-fielder for Spanish club Real Madrid, was a key player in the Colombian national team during the 2014 FIFA Brazil World Cup, winning the Golden Boot for his six goals, including the best goal of the championship in a match against Uruguay, reports Xinhua.

Rodriguez, 23, joined Real Madrid after the World Cup, and quickly became one of coach Carlo Ancelotti's top players, helping the squad win this year's UEFA Super Cup and the Club World Cup, held earlier this month in Morocco.

Rodriguez will receive the award in March, during the AIPS Games, to be held in Manaos, Brazil.

The award for the continent's best female athlete of the year also went to a Colombian, track and field star Caterine Ibarguen - gold medal winner at the Central American and Caribbean Games, held in Veracruz, Mexico. 

Argentina's national football team, which finished second at the World Cup, was voted best team in the Americas. 

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Cristiano Ronaldo's agent claims Portuguese star will retire at Real Madrid

Ruling out a return for Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo to Manchester United, the forward's agent has claimed that the star footballer would retire at Real Madrid.

London: Ruling out a return for Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo to Manchester United, the forward's agent has claimed that the star footballer would retire at Real Madrid.

In addition to that Jorge Mendes even went ahead to claim that Ronaldo is the greatest footballer of all time and that Real should retire the famous number seven shirt, worn by Raul and Alfredo Di Stefano, as a mark of respect.

Mendes said that he got to know Ronaldo when he was 15 years old, adding that from then until now they have spoken together on most days. He claimed that when he is in Madrid they always meet up, adding that their relationship is more like a friendship, the Mirror reported.

Mendes believes that Ronaldo would finish his career at Real, adding that the forward is happy at the club and is still keen to achieve more success in Madrid.

The Portuguese superstar is in the form of his life with Real Madrid, having already struck an astonishing 32 goals in all competitions for the club this season, including 25 in La Liga.

Ronaldo, who won his second Ballon d'Or crown back in January, is also favourite to retain the award at FIFA's annual gala next month.

And Mendes believes that not only is Ronaldo deserving of a third individual crown, but that he should be looked upon as world football's greatest ever performer. He declared that Ronaldo is the greatest ever.

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Sami Khedira interested to stay at Real Madrid

The future of German international Sami Khedira looks to get sorted out soon with the 28-year-old being interested in signing a new deal with Real Madrid.

New Delhi: The future of German international Sami Khedira looks to get sorted out soon with the 28-year-old being interested in signing a new deal with Real Madrid.

Khedira's contract is set to expire in the summer of 2015 and the midfielder had stated that talks are on with his club in order to find an agreement. In the January transfer window clubs outside of Spain are free to offer him a deal.

Khedira has found it difficult this season to break into the starting XI with the likes of Luka Modric, and Toni Kroos being selected ahead of him in the pecking order. Also there is competition for places from youngsters Isco and Asier Illarramendi.

Khedira knows he will have to battle it out for a place and put his bet to be in the mix.

The midfielder was linked with a move away from Madrid since months with hosts of big clubs interested in getting his signature. Chelsea, Arsenal and Bayern Munich were linked with a move for the German star.

If Real and Khedira don't agree to a new deal, the upcoming moments would be interesting. A big move by any of the interested suitors could see Khedira leave Madrid. It is expected though the matter will be resolved soon as Real will not let him go on a free transfer.

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Louis van Gaal heaps praise on midfielder Wayne Rooney post stellar win over Newcastle

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has praised Wayne Rooney for his new role as an attacking midfielder following a 3-1 triumph over rivals Newcastle at Old Trafford.

London: Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has praised Wayne Rooney for his new role as an attacking midfielder following a 3-1 triumph over rivals Newcastle at Old Trafford.

Van Gaal said that he couldn't have demanded more as a manager as Rooney scored two goals and gets an assist. He further said that he had asked Rooney to be more attacking after displaying a defensive show against Aston Villa in the last match, the BBC reported.

The Dutchman added that Rooney has the lung capacity to run 90 minutes as a midfielder.

Currently placed at third spot in the league table, United took their unbeaten run to eight games with the win.

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Atletico Madrid close to sealing Fernando Torres deal

Atletico Madrid are close to tying up a deal for Spain forward Fernando Torres to return to his boyhood club on loan from Chelsea, assistant coach German Burgos said on Saturday.

Madrid: Atletico Madrid are close to tying up a deal for Spain forward Fernando Torres to return to his boyhood club on loan from Chelsea, assistant coach German Burgos said on Saturday.

Torres, 30, joined AC Milan on a two-year loan in August but has yet to rediscover his form and has only managed one goal in 10 Serie A appearances.

"It (the Torres deal) is on the verge of completion and we are waiting for things to firm up," Burgos was quoted as saying in Spanish media.

"He will be a very important reinforcement for the second half of the season," added Diego Simeone`s number two.

"We will get the best out of him, the same as everyone, and he knows where he is coming to."

Atletico`s Italy winger Alessio Cerci will move to Milan on loan as part of the deal, which will run until the end of the 2015-16 season, Spanish media reported.

Cerci said on his Facebook page on Saturday he had not yet signed with another club.

"I am an Atletico Madrid player and together with the club I am considering the best solution for both," he added. "I think that is right and normal."

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Roma striker Gervinho's home burgled

Rome: Italian club A.S. Roma striker Gervinho had a forgettable Christmas Day after he discovered his Italian home in Axa, near Rome, had been burgled as he spent time with family in the Ivory Coast.

The former Arsenal man was robbed after he posted photos on social media informing fans he was going to be out of the country, reports dailymail.co.uk.

It is reported that the unknown culprits have made away with expensive jewellery and watches.

It was Gervinho's brother who discovered the burglary and reported it to the police.

It is possible that the thieves entered through a door window although it remains unclear if the alarm was turned off before they entered.

Gervinho is expected to return to Rome Tuesday, when the extent of the robbery will be confirmed.

The Ivorian has 11 goals to his credit this season from 41 appearances for Roma in Serie A.

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Stephen Constantine to take charge as India football team's coach

Cypriot Stephen Constantine will return as Indian football team's chief coach for the second time as his name has been cleared by the All India Football Federation's Technical Committee.

New Delhi: Cypriot Stephen Constantine will return as Indian football team's chief coach for the second time as his name has been cleared by the All India Football Federation's Technical Committee.

Constantine's appointment is expected to be officially announced next week by the AIFF and the English-Cypriot will begin his new stint in the new year.

"It is more or less certain that Constantine will be the Indian football team head coach. The AIFF Technical Committee has cleared his name and the official announcement is expected early next week," a top source told PTI on the condition of anonymity.

The 52-year-old Constantine, who was India coach from 2002 to 2005, will, however, get significantly lower salary than what his predecessor Wim Koevermans was getting. Dutchman Koevermans reportedly got around USD 20,000 per month before he left the job recently after a just over two-year stint.

Constantine, who has coached the national teams of Nepal, Malawi and Sudan and currently in charge of Rwanda, got the nod ahead of former New Zealand coach and India Super League franchise side NorthEast United FC coach Ricki Herbert mainly due to his earlier Indian experience.

"Constantine fulfilled our three criteria. Firstly, he comes within the pay package of the AIFF. We wanted a coach whose salary was below that of Koevermans. Secondly, we wanted a coach, who has experience of coaching national team," the source said.

"The third criteria was that the new coach should have knowledge of Indian football, its geography and perhaps culture. Constantine fits well in all this," he added.

Constantine achieved some success in his earlier three-year stint as India head coach. In his first tournament in charge, India won the LG Cup against Vietnam under Bhaichung Bhutia's captaincy.

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Former football star George Weah wins seat in Liberia's Senate

Monrovia: Former world soccer player of the year George Weah has won a seat in Liberia`s Senate to represent the capital, defeating the son of the president and boosting his political fortunes ahead of a presidential election in 2017.

Weah won the Montserrado County seat that includes the capital Monrovia with 78 percent of the vote, defeating Robert Sirleaf, the son of President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Liberia`s National Elections Commission said late on Saturday.

Weah, leader of the country`s largest opposition party, the Congress for Democratic Change, lost the 2005 presidential election to Sirleaf and lost again in 2011 when he was a vice presidential candidate. He is expected to stand again in 2017.

Weah won FIFA`s World Player of the Year in 1995. 

Liberia`s efforts to recover from a long civil war that ended in 2003 and reestablish democracy have been hampered this year by an Ebola epidemic that has killed more than 3,300 people in the country and more than 7,500 people in West Africa.

"Results from all 4,701 polling places in the country have already been counted and tallied. The recorded voter turnout for the election is 479,936 which represents 25.2 percent of the total number of registered voters," election commission chairman Jerome Korkoya said in a statement following the elections to the Senate -- the upper house of the legislature.

Other Senate winners included Jewel Howard Taylor, the former wife of ex-President Charles Taylor who was convicted by the International Criminal Court in 2012 on charges including war crimes and crimes against humanity. Jewel Taylor retained her seat in Bong County, north-central Liberia.

Former rebel leader Prince Johnson, whose forces captured, tortured and killed President Samuel Doe during the civil war in 1990, also retained a seat in Nimba County. 

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Federation Cup: Sunil Chhetri brace helps Bengaluru beat Salgaocar

Vasco, Goa: Bengaluru FC rode on Sunil Chhetri double strike as they beat Salgaocar FC 3-2 in their Group B league match as the 36th Federation Cup football tournament kicked off here on Sunday.

Both the team played attacking game and the visitors drew the first blood from a penalty scored by Chhetri after a Sean Rooney shot from inside the box hit defender Pawan Kumar's hand in the 25th minute at Tilak Stadium.

Salgaocar fought back and restored parity in the 32nd minute when Gurjinder's dipping free kick from almost 35 yards bounced awkwardly and beat keeper Lalthuammanwia Ralte to find the net.

Chhetri, who was named the AIFF Player of the Year for the second consecutive year, then put his team up in the 40th minute from an assist by Beikhokhei Beingaichho.

But the visitors' joy was shortlived as Douhou Pierre fired one in from the top of the box, giving the rival keeper no chance to react in the next minute.

Chhetri than turned the provider when he set up Rooney on the left, who placed the ball into the net to the left of keeper Subrata Paul at the stroke of half time which ultimately proved to be the winner.

The second half turned up to be a bit physical as Salgaocar tried hard to find the equaliser but Bengaluru did well to keep the slate clean till the end.

Bengaluru FC play their next match against Mohun Bagan on December 30, while Salgaocar take on Shillong Lajong on December 31.

In the second match of the day played at Margao, Royal Wahingdoh beat Mumbai FC 2-1 in Group A.

Royal Wahingdoh dictated terms in the first half as they had more ball possession and after coming close to scoring on a couple of occasions, surged ahead in the 34th minute.

A move on the right flank saw Bakay Bewar send a measured cross into the box for Jackichand who found the net with a firm right footer to have his team leading 1-0 at half time.

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Robinho keen to extend Santos stay

Former Real Madrid striker Robinho is in talks to remain with Brazilian club Santos beyond the January transfer window.

Rio de Janeiro: Former Real Madrid striker Robinho is in talks to remain with Brazilian club Santos beyond the January transfer window.

The 30-year-old joined the Brazilian outfit on a year's loan from AC Milan in August, reports Xinhua.

But a clause in the deal allows the Rossoneri to sell him in January, thereby preventing Robinho from leaving the Italian club as a free agent.

"I had a conversation with the president of Santos and it went well," Robinho was quoted as saying by ESPN Brasil.

"Both sides want to continue. We know that the club is in a difficult financial situation. In early January we'll talk again, but everything is on track for me to stay at Santos."

Robinho has scored nine goals from 21 matches in his third spell at the Brazilian club.

Earlier this year, the Brazil international was linked with a move to new US Major Soccer League (MLS) franchise Orlando City. 

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Veterans Michael Carrick, John Terry to be handed one year contract extensions

English giants Manchester United and Chelsea are keen to hand one-year contract extensions to star players Michael Carrick and John Terry respectively.

New Delhi: English giants Manchester United and Chelsea are keen to hand one-year contract extensions to star players Michael Carrick and John Terry respectively.

Both Carrick and Terry have been phenomenal for their respective clubs over the years and their form this season too have been vital for the teams' fortunes.

According to reports, Manchester United will activate a one-year extension of Michael Carrick’s GBP 130,000-a-week contract to keep the central midfielder at Old Trafford beyond the summer. Carrick had earlier agreed to the clause when he signed a two-year deal in 2013.

The 33-year-old has been one of their most influential players since his return from a long injury and has been the engine of the team since then.

Meanwhile, Chelsea skipper John Terry will sign a one-year extension after manager Jose Mourinho revealed the news. The 34-year-old will be a leading has been crucial for Chelsea's defence after some outstanding displays.

Mourinho stated that it is a formality now as the skipper will sign a contract soon. Jose is a huge admirer of Terry and has voiced his appreciation for the former England international on numerous occasions.

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Jose Mourinho says new John Terry deal `a formality`

London: Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has declared that a new contract for long-serving captain John Terry will be "a formality", according to British newspaper reports on Sunday

Terry`s contract is due to expire in June, but the 34-year-old has been in fine form for the Premier League leaders this season and has scored twice in his last two games.

"It`s a formality," said Mourinho of contract talks with the former England captain, who made his Chelsea debut in October 1998.

"There are no doubts that he is going to get another contract. I know that, he knows that. We in the club, in the board, we know that and I think also you have to feel that.

"Without us confirming anything, you have to feel that. He`s a very important player in the team so the next contract sooner or later will come." 

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Liverpool boss Rodgers quashes Balotelli's exit rumours

London: Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers has brushed aside rumours revolving around Italian international striker Mario Balotelli's immediate exit from the club, saying that he has no plans to get rid of controversial striker during the January transfer window.

London: Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers has brushed aside rumours revolving around Italian international striker Mario Balotelli's immediate exit from the club, saying that he has no plans to get rid of controversial striker during the January transfer window.

Balotelli, who scored twice in 15 games during this season, has been reportedly linked with a return to Inter Milan.

Commenting on the rumours, Rodgers said that it was not something he had even thought about, adding that the key for him at the moment was to keep the squad together, the BBC reported.

Liverpool, who came runners-up in the last season, are currently placed at a ninth position in the Premier League table. 

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Cristiano Ronaldo almost ended up in Birmingham City before Man United move, claims David Sullivan

London: Former Birmingham City football team owner David Sullivan has claimed that the club could have bagged Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo for just six million pounds before the forward moved to Manchester United.

Ronaldo moved from Sporting Lisbon to Old Trafford back in the summer of 2003 and the forward established himself as one of the planet's elite players during six years in Manchester.

Real Madrid broke the world transfer record to land Ronaldo for around 80 million pounds in 2009, and the former United star has plundered a remarkable 34 goals in 27 appearances already this term, the Mirror reported.

Former Birmingham chief Sullivan, who is now at West Ham United , revealed how it could have all been so different for Ronaldo's formative years in England. He said that before the Portuguese went to United, they were offered him for 6 million pounds, and he chose United ahead of Birmingham.

Sullivan added that there was a deal to be done. He claimed that when Ronaldo went to United there were lots of doubts about him, and the Portuguese wasn't the star that he is now.

Ronaldo won three Premier League titles, the FA Cup and the Champions League during his time at Old Trafford, the report added.

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English festive schedule `a disgrace`: Gus Poyet

London: Sunderland coach Gus Poyet has hit out at the Premier League`s jam-packed festive fixture schedule, branding the arrangement "a disgrace" in comments published by several British newspapers on Sunday.

Following a full programme of matches on Friday, all 20 top-flight clubs will play again on Sunday and Monday, with another round of games scheduled for New Year`s Day.

Poyet`s side won 1-0 at Newcastle United last weekend before losing 3-1 at home to Hull City on Friday and ahead of Sunday`s trip to Aston Villa, he warned that his players were struggling to cope.

"We shouldn`t be playing on the 28th," said the Uruguayan, who represented Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur during his player career and previously coached Brighton and Hove Albion.

"I`ve been in England for a long time and I know that Boxing Day games are a tradition and I accept that and think we should maintain it.

"But I think that then playing on the 28th is a disgrace. We shouldn`t be playing then, we shouldn`t. If you want to see the best players performing well, you need to make sure you are not playing every two days.

"It is not needed. That is not tradition and anyone who says it is is not telling the truth."

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Asian champions Western Sydney Wanderers stay win-less in A-League

Sydney: Asian club champions Western Sydney Wanderers remain win-less in Australia`s A-League this season after a 1-0 loss to Wellington Phoenix on Sunday.

The Wanderers are stranded in last place on the standings after in-form Fijian striker Roy Krishna scored the winner from the penalty spot.

While Ante Covic saved Krishna`s initial spot-kick, the Phoenix forward followed up to tuck away his fifth goal of the campaign.

Wellington`s win consolidated a place in the top four, five points above fifth-placed Sydney FC.

Sydney suffered their third straight home loss, to Adelaide United, on Friday.

Adelaide rebounded from two straight losses of their own to win 3-0 through late goals by Bruce Djite, Spaniard Pablo Sanchez and Awer Mabil.

Melbourne Victory snatched a late 1-0 win on Saturday, with Brazilian Gui Finkler`s brilliant late free-kick sinking the Newcastle Jets.

Melbourne City held leaders Perth Glory to a 1-1 draw on Friday, with Richard Garcia`s header cancelling out Aaron Mooy`s opener.

Glory hold a four-point lead over Victory after 12 games.

The A-League continues through the New Year break, with two full rounds in the next nine days before breaking for the Asian Cup in Australia.

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Ghana to train in Spain ahead of 2015 AFCON

Accra: The head coach of Ghana's senior national football side, Black Stars, Avram Grant has picked Spanish city of Seville as venue for the team's pre-Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) camp.

The decision comes after days of intense discussions with the Football Association, who preferred Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) instead of Spain, as the base for the team to limber-up ahead of the 2015 tournament in Equatorial Guinea, reports Xinhua.

Twenty-six players are expected to open camp in Spain from Jan 3 and would spend 10 days in Seville before flying out to Mongomo, which will be the base for the three-week championship.

The Ghanaian side is expected to play a few preparatory games before the tournament, which will give Grant a fair idea of his team and pick his final 23-man squad for the championship.

Grant's troops are billed to assemble for a non-residential camping here before the Spain trip.

Ghana will play in Group C of next year's tournament alongside Senegal, South Africa and Africa-best ranked side and tournament favourites Algeria.

The Black Stars will open their campaign against Senegal before matches against South Africa and Algeria.

The tournament kicks off Jan 17 and ends Feb 8.

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ISL glitz props Indian football but national team slips in 2014

New Delhi: The 'sleeping giant' woke up to a new dawn with the ISL putting Indian football on the global map, but the national team continued to paint a grim picture, plummeting to its worst-ever rankings in an eventful year for the sport

The national team's prolonged decline got buried under the intense hype over what turned out to be a fairly successful inaugural Indian Super League, which was graced by former stars such as Alessandro Del Piero, David Trezeguet, Robert Pires, Marco Materrazi, Luis Garcia and Nicolas Anelka, among others.

Seen for over two months on the dugout was Zico, a football legend in his own right not just in Brazil but the world over.

Goa FC did reach the semifinals of ISL but what was more important for the side's players was that they were under the tutelage of Zico for over two months, something that would surely benefit them in near future.

Besides the franchise-based tournament, a model based on cricket's popular Indian Premier League, bagging the 2017 Under-17 World Cup was another silver lining this year for the success-starved nation that is struggling at 171 in FIFA rankings.

In January, India were ranked 156th and by the end of year, they dropped 15 places, the never-ending spate of reverses leaving coach Wim Koevermans so frustrated that the Dutchman decided not to continue in the hot seat.

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Manchester United's striking quartet assures goals against Tottenham Hotspur

New Delhi: Louis van Gaal has revamped Manchester United's striking department since taking charge of the club in summer.

The Dutchman injected the precocious talent of Radamel Falcao to the attack and promoted young James Wilson from the reserves. Danny Welbeck was sold to Arsenal, while impact subsitute Javier Hernandez was loaned out to Real Madrid.

n doing so, Van Gaal has assembled a strike force that boasts of distinct features from one another and a lot of goals. Every combination is unique and offers a different proposition for the opposition defence.

Under the new manager, skipper Wayne Rooney seems to have reinvented himself. The England international appears to be enjoying not just his leadership role, but also his presence in the United midfield, something that he didn't under former manager Sir Alex Ferguson. Rooney, apart from dictating play from the middle of the park, has been scoring as well.

Falcao has been impressive despite his injury troubles. Despite finding the back of the net on just two occasions, the Colombian has added creativity to United's attack. He has held up the ball well, linked up play and set up chances for his teammates. Falcao's header against Aston Villa was proof of his accuracy in front of goal.

Despite starting the seaon on the wrong foot, Robin van Persie has regained his lost scoring touch in recent weeks. Van Gaal's view has voiced his honest views on the striker's form and confidence through the season, which perhaps has fuelled Robin's newfound form. The Holland captain's goals have helped United mount a consistent charge in the league.

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Cristiano Ronaldo becomes Luke Shaw's landlord

London: Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo has become a landlord to Manchester United's teenaged defender Luke Shaw.

The 19-year-old, who was bought by Manchester United for a whopping 30 million pounds from Southampton, rents Ronaldo's plush five-bedroom mansion in Alderley, Cheshire.

According to Mirror Online, the Portugal international has kept his property since leaving United to join Real in 2009. He put it on the market but it failed to sell, so he has subsequently rented it out.

The youngster is believed to be paying 7,000 pounds a month for the house, which boasts indoor swimming pool, steam room and Jacuzzi and also has its own gym and wine store area.

Ronaldo, 29, bought the home for 3.85 million pounds after he joined United in 2003.

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Marouane Fellaini to miss Man United's festive fixtures

London: Manchester United will be without mid-fielder Marouane Fellaini for the remainder of Christmas and New Year after it emerged the Belgian has a rib injury.

United manager Louis van Gaal has put Fellaini’s absence from the squad down to a mystery ‘virus’, revealing after Friday's win at home to Newcastle that the giant midfielder would not figure against Tottenham Sunday, reports Daily Mail.

However, it is understood that Fellaini is also nursing injured ribs suffered in the win against Liverpool a fortnight ago and it is this that is expected to side line the former Everton player a little longer.

As a result of this problem Fellaini is not expected to return until after the FA Cup third round tie at Yeovil a week Sunday.

Van Gaal has been given better injury news about other players with Daley Blind, Marcos Rojo and Luke Shaw all close to a first-team return.

Blind and Rojo could travel to Yeovil, while left-back Shaw is in contention for the Tottenham game.

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Alex Ferguson rant more daunting than Barack Obama call: Tim Howard

London: English football club Everton's American goalkeeper Tim Howard has said that a verbal onslaught from former Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson is more daunting than a phone call from US President Barack Obama.

The 35-year-old became a hero in his country following his outstanding performance for the US at the FIFA World Cup in Brazil.

The Everton goalie broke the tournament record for the number of saves made in a single game in their 1-2 extra-time loss to Belgium.

Obama called Howard and his teammate Clint Dempsey after the match to show his appreciation for their efforts.

"The call from the president is all set up. You get a knock on your door from the team administrator, you’re downstairs in five minutes, and off you go," Howard was quoted as saying by the Mirror Online.

"You just try not to say anything stupid, because forever you’ll be remembered as the guy who said something stupid to the president."

"But, put it this way, going into Sir Alex’s dressing room is more daunting because you know that the president of the United States isn’t going to yell at you. When Alex Ferguson yells at you, that’s absolutely the worst thing in the world!," Howard added.

Howard, though, failed to make an impression at Manchester United under Ferguson and was sold to Everton for three million pounds in 2007. 

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English Premier League, Gameweek 19 - As it happened...

Newcastle (Cisse 34', Perez 51', Colback 68') 3 - 2 (Kone 5', Mirallas 84') Everton: With six minutes remaining in the match, Kevin Mirallas pulls one back for Everton in this intriguing encounter. Match still in Newcastle's favour though with 3-2 lead.

Newcastle (Cisse 34', Perez 51', Colback 68') 3 - 1 (Kone 5') Everton: Jack Colback scores third goal for home side to dominate the game at St James' Park.

Newcastle (Cisse 34', Perez 51') 2 - 1 (Kone 5') Everton: Ayoze Perez makes it two for Newcastle. He latches to a pass from Cheik Tiote.

HALF-TIME:

Newcastle 1 - 1 Everton

Champions Manchester City have failed to beat a promoted side at home for the first time since November 2009. Interesting enough, it was the same team Burnley, who drew 3-3. Beofre today's 2-2 draw, Citizens have conceded only two goals in the previous five games at the Etihad. With Southampton holding the league leaders Chelsea early today, it was a great chance for City to close the gap to one point with a win against Burnley, but they have squandered...

FULL-TIME UPDATE:

Aston Villa 0 - 0 Sunderland
Hull City 0 - 1 Leicester
Manchester City 2 - 2 Burnley
QPR 0 - 0    Crystal Palace
Stoke City 2 - 0 West Brom
West Ham 1 - 2 Arsenal

Newcastle (Cisse 34') 1 - 1 (Kone 5') Everton: Papiss Demba Cisse scores his ninth goal of the season to help Newcastle equalize against the visiting Everton.

Hull City 0 - 1 (Mahrez') Leicester: Another sent off at KC Stadium. This time, Hull City midfielder Stephen Quinn got a direct red card in injury time from Phil Dowd.

Hull City 0 - 1 (Mahrez') Leicester: Red card for Paul Konchesky. The defender was already booked, and with the second one, received marching orders from the referee with minutes into the final whistle.

Man City (Silva 23', Fernandinho 33') 2 - 2 (Boyd 47', Barnes 81') Burnley: Burnley's good work finally produced result, found the second equalizer thanks to a Ashley Barnes strike off a rebound.

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Bayer Leverkusen extend contract with Karim Bellarabi

Berlin: German football club Bayer Leverkusen have extended the contract of Karim Bellarabi until June 2017.

Leverkusen made use of an option in Bellarabi's contract to bind the striker for another two years until June 2017, reports Xinhua.

"We have activated an option to extend the contract with Karim Bellarabi until June 30, 2017," Leverkusen announced in an official statement Sunday.

Bellarabi returned from a loan spell with Braunschweig to become one of the key players in Leverkusen. 

The 24-year-old striker has made 17 appearances this season to score eight goals. He has played overall 61 Bundesliga games to mark 12 goals.

Leverkusen sit currently in third place of the Bundesliga standings, six points adrift of second placed Wolfsburg and 17 points away from front runners Bayern Munich. 

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Henrikh Mkhitaryan voted Armenian Footballer of the Year

Yerevan: Midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan has been voted Armenian Footballer of the Year for the fifth time.

Yerevan: Midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan has been voted Armenian Footballer of the Year for the fifth time.

The Borussia Dortmund midfielder socred 12 times and laid on five assists for club and country in 2014 but got injured in Dortmund's game against Hertha Berlin Dec 13, reports Xinhua.

Mkhitaryan is expected to be back in February 2015. 

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Jose Mourinho fumes at referee missing ''Big Ben'' penalty

London: Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho was left seething after his team were denied what he described as a "Big Ben" penalty during the 1-1 Premier League draw at Southampton on Sunday.

Cesc Fabregas was shown a yellow card after tumbling in a challenge with Southampton defender Matt Targett, infuriating Morinho whose players have been accused of diving in several recent incidents.

"I think it is a scandal because it is not a small penalty - it is a penalty like Big Ben," Mourinho told the BBC.

"In this country - and I am happy with that, more than happy with that - we will just say that it was a big mistake with a big influence in the result.

"I am happy that it is this way, with respect for the referee. He made a big mistake like I make, like the players make sometimes."

Chelsea`s Branislav Ivanovic, Diego Costa and Gary Cahill have all been involved in controversy over diving in recent games and Mourinho believes there is a conspiracy against his team.

"They are not incidents," he said. "That`s a campaign, that`s a clear campaign. People, pundits, commentators, coaches from other teams - they react with Chelsea in a way they don`t react to other teams.

"They put lots of pressure on the referee and the referee makes a mistake like this. We lose two points, Fabregas earns a yellow card."

Southampton manager Ronald Koeman was not sure about the decision.

"If the referee thinks it`s simulation then you have to give the player a yellow card," said the Dutchman whose team have consolidated fourth place in the table following a mini-slump in form.

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Holders Japan lose fullback Uchida for Asian Cup

Tokyo: Experienced Japanese fullback Atsuto Uchida has been ruled out of next month`s Asian Cup title defence in Australia after failing to recover from a knee injury.

The Schalke defender was replaced by Kashima Antlers` Naomichi Ueda in the 23-man squad, the Japanese Football Association said on Sunday.

The 26-year-old Uchida has played 72 times for the Blue Samurai, including matches at the World Cup in Brazil earlier this year and the Asian Cup triumph in Qatar in 2011.

The holders have been drawn in Group D of the 16-team tournament alongside Jordan, Palestine and 2007 winners Iraq.

They open their campaign on Jan. 12 in Newcastle against outsiders Palestine.

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Radamel Falcao needs stellar second half to seal permanent Manchester United move

New Delhi: Manchester United named an unchanged line-up for the first time in 85 games on Sunday against Tottenham Hotspur.

Louis van Gaal, convinced of Radamel Falcao's fitness, handed him yet another start. The Dutchman had previously omitted the Colombian due to issues regarding his fitness.

After recovering from a knee injury, Falcao has put in strong performances, but he still is not back to his best.

The striker has displayed his intense work ethic – hassling defenders and working hard when his team does not have the ball.

The 28-year-old has linked up well, created openings and assisted teammates during his brief stint at Old Trafford so far.

However, he hasn't delivered on one account – scoring bagful of goals'. Though, he has shown glimpses of his clinical finishing, the form he showcased at Atletico Madrid and AS Moncao continues to evade him.

Once again on Sunday, Falcao spurned quite of a few chances that one would expect him to put away with ease.

When Juan Mata set him up with a perfect pass, Falcao's first touch deserted him and Hugo Lloris made an easy collection of his weak shot.

He slipped very often, went down holding his face and lost possession on several occasions against Tottenham Hotspur.

If the striker and his agent Jorge Mendes wish to push for a permanent move through at the end of season, Falcao needs to be among the goals as soon as possible.

With Manchester United paying astronomical wages for the services of the Colombian, Louis van Gaal will soon be expecting big bang for his buck..

With both Wayne Rooney and Robin van Persie scoring 8 goals each, Radamel Falcao, having scored just 2, will be feeling the pressure of not hitting the back of the net on more occasions.

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Atletico Madrid is Fernando Torres's last chance for reviving career

AC Milan forward Fernando Torres has finally moved to his boyhood club Atletico Madrid on-loan, after seven and a half years of plying his trade in Europe's other elite clubs

New Delhi: AC Milan forward Fernando Torres has finally moved to his boyhood club Atletico Madrid on-loan, after seven and a half years of plying his trade in Europe's other elite clubs.

This loan deal offers a hope for Fernando Torres to revive his career. The 30-year-old striker who signed for AC Milan on a permanent deal from Chelsea on Saturday, will move to Spanish champions Atletico.

According to reports in Spain, the deal is subject to Torres passing a medical and will be finalised on January 5 when the Italian transfer window opens.

The Spaniard expressed his delight on social micro-blogging site, Twitter.

Torres had moved to Milan on a two-year loan deal in beginning of this season in hope to resurrect his spluttering career. But just a solitary goal in 10 appearances for the Italian giants tell a story familiar with his days at Chelsea. Milan who sold controversial striker Mario Balotelli to Liverpool in the summer, had hoped Torres would be an ideal fit for the club but the move backfired.

Milan must be hoping that Torres will benefit a great deal from Atletico manager Diego Simeone. The Argentinian has been a revolution for Atletico in terms of success. Simeone is also known in getting his working class heroes work like wolves week after week, and has seen him being touted as one of the world's top class manager.

Torres needs to make the most out of the loan deal at Atletico where Simeone might just be the right person in getting the out of sorts striker back to form and scoring goals. Torres will have to play second fiddle to Mario Mandzukic but he should be assured that Simeone will give him enough game time.

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Confident Bengaluru FC take on Mohun Bagan

Vasco: A confident Bengaluru FC will be looking 

To score their second win as they face Mohun Bagan in a Group B league match of the Hero Federation Cup football here on Tuesday.

Bengaluru FC put in the hard yards in yesterday's opener against Salgaocar when they came out 3-2 winners courtesy Sunil Chhetri's double strikes and a Sean Rooney goal.

Bengaluru FC share a sort of history with Bagan as the Kolkata side were their opponents in the Blues' first-ever competitive game. The result then was a 1-1 draw at the Bangalore Football Stadium in the I-League last season.

The last time the two sides met was in the league's return leg where a thunderbolt from Rooney saw Bengaluru manage a 1-2 result at the Salt Lake Stadium.

Incidentally, Rooney had a goal in the draw at home too and would only be keen to make it three in as many games against the Kolkata club.

"I hadn't realised that I've scored both times we've played Bagan and I would love to do it again. They are a good team but at the moment, there's no team with confidence like ours," said the Australian striker.

Bagan have done a fair bit of a rejig to their squad over the summer, shoring the attack with the signings of Cameroon international Pierre Boya, Haitian Sony Norde, Balwant Singh and Jeje Lalpekhlua.

The Mariners have even roped in defenders Bello Razaq, Anwar Ali and Dhanchandra Singh apart from bringing in young midfielder Souvik Chakraborty from United SC.

Asked what he thought about yesterday's game, Rooney said the team was pleased with the work rate and the outcome.

"It was an exciting first half and a compact show by the defence in the second. We dominated the game and came away with a win we deserved. About playing a second game in three days, I don't see it as too much of a problem. We've done all the right things at our recovery sessions and we will be as fresh as ever when we take the pitch on Tuesday."

Bengaluru have no injury worries but with a rather strong bench, it will be interesting to see if the I-League champions ring in any changes for the big clash.

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2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games

5 Indian players to look out for at Glasgow Games - Gagan Narang (Shooting)

When it comes to CWG, then Gagan Narang is an undisputed frontrunner for India. He won 4 gold medals at 2006 Melbourne CWG and another 4 gold medals at 2010 Delhi CWG.

This time, he will lead the Indian shooting contingent in two events: 50m rifle 3 Position and 50m Rifle Prone. Unfortunately, he failed to make the cut in his favourite 10m Air Rifle category. He had won the bronze medal at the 2012 London Olympics in this category and he is also the world record holder, having scored a perfect 600 in qualification at the 2008 ISSF World Cup Final.

Till now, he is the only shooter to do so twice – in 2008 and 2010. Having this outstanding feat to his name, the nation will expect Narang to deliver once again.

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Ranji Trophy: Yuvraj Singh's third successive ton puts Punjab in command against Saurashtra

Rajkot: Out-of-favour India batsman Yuvraj Singh  

on Monday completed a hat-trick of centuries in the ongoing Ranji season before Mandeep Singh hit a double ton, which guided Punjab to a formidable 659/7 in their Group B cricket match against Saurashtra here.

Resuming the second day on overnight 327/3 with Mandeep batting on 154 and Yuvraj five short of reaching yet another three-figure mark, the two batsmen went on to make big scores and pushed the hosts on the backfoot at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium.

While Yuvraj made 182 runs off 299 balls, Mandeep went on to score a monumental 235, his runs coming off 334 balls and after 432 minutes of batting.

Yuvraj spent 426 minutes in the middle, hitting 23 fours and two sixes. Mandeep struck 24 boundaries and three big sixes.

The duo put on 379 runs for the fourth wicket, before Gurkeerat Singh scored a century, the team's third in the first innings. Gurkeerat remained not out on 101 as Punjab declared after batting for 168 overs and 698 minutes.

At stumps, Saurashtra were 27 for no loss, trail by 632 runs with 10 wickets remaining in the first innings.

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Papiss Cisse prolongs Everton`s bleak mid-winter

Senegalese striker Papiss Cisse kept up his impressive 

 scoring record to inspire Newcastle United as they came from behind to beat Everton 3-2 in the Premier League on Sunday.

Cisse`s fifth goal in six games sparked the recovery after Arouna Kone had found the net on his full Premier League debut for Roberto Martinez`s Everton, an injury-ravaged 18 months after joining from Wigan Athletic.

Cisse levelled before the interval and second-half goals from Ayoze Perez and Jack Colback enabled Alan Pardew`s men to end a four-game losing streak.

POINTS TALLY

# Team                                  P W L D G Pts

1 Chelsea                                  19 14 1 4 27 46

2 Manchester City                  19 13 2 4 24 43

3 Manchester United                  19 10 3 6 14 36

4 Southampton                          19 10 6 3 16 33

5 Arsenal                                  19 9 4 6 11 33

6 West Ham United                  19 9 6 5 9 31

7 Tottenham Hotspur                  19 9 6 4 0 31

8 Swansea City                          18 8 6 4 3 28

9 Newcastle United                  19 7 7 5 -6 26

10 Liverpool                                  18 7 7 4 -2 25

11 Stoke City                          19 7 8 4 -2 25

12 Everton                                  19 5 8 6 -2 21

13 Aston Villa                          19 5 8 6 -11 21

14 Sunderland                          19 3 5 11 -11 20

15 Queens Park Rangers          19 5 11 3 -13 18

16 West Bromwich Albion          19 4 10 5 -10 17

17 Hull City                                  19 3 9 7 -8 16

18 Crystal Palace                          19  3 9 7 -10 16

19 Burnley                                  19 3 9 7 -15 16

20 Leicester City                          19 3 12 4 -14 13