Netherlands' Klaas-Jan Huntelaar disappointed with substitute role against Brazil

The Schalke striker was benched for the international friendly against Brazil and has expressed his disappointment with the lack of faith shown in him

Netherlands attacker Klaas-Jan Huntelaar has expressed his disappointment with national team coach Bert van Marwijk's decision to leave him on the bench in Saturday's 0-0 friendly draw against Brazil.

Huntelaar has netted an impressive 10 goals in his last six starts for Oranje, but this was not enough to convince Van Marwijk as the Dutch tactician gave Arsenal's Robin van Persie the nod instead.

"I was hoping for a little more faith in me following my performances after the 2010 World Cup. You always want to play when you make such a long trip to Brazil and I really expected to play," Huntelaar said to NUsport.

"I did not ask the coach for an explanation, but I am obviously disappointed. All I can do is continue to do my utmost and hope for the best. It is a pretty annoying situation, though."

Huntelaar came off the bench at half-time in the match against the South Americans, but was unable to make an impact. The 27-year-old striker could however start in the friendly against Uruguay on Wednesday evening.

Should the Premier League big boys follow Liverpool’s transfer lead?

On Saturday we saw a rather lacklustre performance from the England team in an important Euro 2012 qualifier against Switzerland. Yes, admittedly we do still have some individual good players in the Premier League – but with many of them coming towards the end of their career, do with have a new breed of players that will do us proud?

I would like to think so – but they certainly must be given the opportunity to flourish. Exceptionally talented players like Jack Wilshere are also likely to make the breakthrough due to the quality they possess. But the top English Premier League players need to get the opportunity to play for the best teams. Some of our most talented players like Ashley Young, Gary Cahill and Phil Jones may need to move on in the summer to perform on a bigger stage with the best players.

We have seen foreign ownership and foreign management come in to the Premier League and build squads almost exclusively based on foreign players. That strategy is understandable for teams on a budget because in general better value is quoted for foreign players. However, does the Premier League big six (Manchester United, Chelsea, Manchester City, Arsenal, Tottenham and Liverpool) really have any excuse not to buy English? On top of the hugely lucrative TV deals they also enjoy significant commercial and match-day income. We already know about the fact that some Arsenal fans are getting turned off by the huge season ticket prices.

Yes, I understand that a lot is at stake for getting signings wrong and we would not want English players to be signed purely for the sake of signing English players. The process should be the same as any other signing – but we need to have the best English players playing for the biggest English clubs and playing in the Champions League.

At times prices will be high – but that is just the way of the world and the big clubs don’t really need to penny pinch, do they? Case in point was the signing of Andy Carroll in the January transfer window, now I think most people know that at the moment there is no way he is worth £35m. However, he is a talented young striker and if he scores anywhere near the amount of goals in the Premier League and for England that has been predicted, then Liverpool’s gamble will have paid off. In a similar way Manchester United probably overpaid when they signed Chris Smalling and Arsenal when they signed Theo Walcott. But that is just the way it is and the selling club are not keen to sell their best talent – so they are going to want compensation for all the years they have spent training and developing the player.

Premier League clubs could do a lot worse than having a little look at the Barcelona squad – who proved themselves to be the best European club side. Their squad though has a definitive Spanish core to it and features 12 Spaniards in their first-team alone. So it stands to reason that this is a reasonable model to follow, but in order to do that English sides must commit to buying English players and also developing and giving the best English players their chance in the first-team instead of foreign players. But with the financial fair play rules coming in soon a certain amount of this may need to happen anyway and if so much the better.

If we fast forward 10 years and looked through the top squads within the Premier League – wouldn’t it be fantastic if each squad featured at least 10 top quality English players. Liverpool may be best placed to make that dream a reality. With two men that were involved in the set-up at Barcelona in Jose Segura and Rodolfo Borrell they should develop it in the right way. Both in terms of developing youth players as they have done with Jay Spearing and Martin Kelly; but also with the signing of the best English talent – something they started with the capture of Andy Carroll and will hopefully continue during the summer. And if they do it that way and other clubs follow so much the better.

Loyalty in football? Not at the Emirates

Samir Nasri has risked alienating himself from Arsenal fans after failing to completely rule out an Emirates departure this summer. His manager, Arsene Wenger, has continually attempted to convince the French midfielder to secure extended terms on his contract which expires next summer, but Nasri has stated this week that a move to perennial title rivals Manchester United remains a distinct possibility. “Do I want to go to United? We should see if their interest is real and if it is concrete first,” he said.

It would be difficult to deny Nasri’s motives for an immediate transfer following three disappointing years in England where his individual displays have eclipsed the contribution of his team-mates. That said, Arsenal fans who have had to endure a period of disillusionment twice as long as Nasri’s employment will unquestionably deplore their most important creative force for returning regularly to the Emirates in the shirt of another Premiership team. A move abroad would be unwelcome to an extent, but Nasri’s willingness to encourage offers from Arsenal’s closest rivals for English League dominance highlights a broader concern for football fans in regards to player loyalty.

The tendency is for spectators to label players who make such moves as ‘greedy,’ or often brand them in a more sinister light, but it seems strange to disparage an individual who seeks to improve their chances of winning trophies, gaining international recognition and enhancing their bank account, especially in an industry where a competitors professional playing career lasts around 14 years. A large section of Liverpool supporters took to the streets to burn their team’s jerseys which bore the name of Fernando Torres when the Spaniard completed his £50 million move to Chelsea in January. The striker had offered three-and-a-half years of service to the Anfield outfit, a club he joined as Champions League finalists but which rapidly descended the Premier League table to be struggling in the Europa League, and for requalification, at the time of his departure.

The Merseyside faithful were not the first group of supporters to aggressively oppose one of their favourite players’ exits, but they were perhaps misguided. A replacement for Torres was identified immediately in the form of Andy Carroll, who initially stated his reluctance to leave his hometown club in Newcastle, but the 6ft 3inch striker was making a move identical in nature. Carroll has now increased his earnings immeasurably, is playing for a more esteemed club in terms of history and universal acknowledgement, and for a team which competes in European competition with a continual expectation to compete for trophies on all fronts. This switch emphasized the modern-day transfer merry-go-round which many fans have failed to accept. The fact is, during his entire playing career at club level, Torres has won just the Spanish second division title (in 2001/2002), and a player of his calibre should have been urged to seek fulfillment elsewhere rather than criticised for a perceived lack of loyalty, an ideal invented by fans, and not by Torres, in the first place.

In any walk of life, including within the entertainment industry, no individual should be condemned for trying to better themselves in terms of increasing ones wage packet or working for a more established firm with more compatible ambitions. In football, the likes of Alessandro del Piero (Juventus), Francesco Totti (Roma), Steven Gerrard (Liverpool), Ryan Giggs (Manchester United) and John Terry (Chelsea), are worshipped by their fans for experiencing their entire careers at just one club, and are all marked with the loyalty stamp by neutral observers as well. However, the common theme amongst this group in addition to their individually exceptional athletic attributes is that they all play for a top club. Paul Scholes brought his 17-year career to an end last week and will rightly be placed in the category of Manchester United’s greatest ever representatives, but would the midfielder have shown equal loyalty to his hometown club, Oldham, had his career began in less than spectacular surroundings? The answer is a resounding no, because at a primitive stage of Scholes’ development, a club with greater aspirations and wealth would have convinced the player to move.

In principle, the influences which dictate a footballer’s decision to force through a transfer are completely justified, but in practice, and in an environment where many top players fabricate their thoughts through Twitter, fans are always going to be let down by their favourite stars stating their loyalty one week and their desire to leave the next.

Lazio closer to signing Klose

Serie A‘s Lazio are expected to complete the transfer of off-contract German striker Miroslav Klose shortly.Klose, who turned 33 last week, is expected to sign a two-year deal with the Rome club worth nearly two million pounds.

Klose’s contract with Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich expires on June 30, and Bayern have confirmed that he had rejected their offer of a new one-year rolling deal.

La Liga side Valencia joined Everton in the race for the goal ace’s signature, but Lazio have emerged as front-runners.

And Klose has revealed that a move to Lazio is attractive.

“Let’s say that I am evaluating some offers and Lazio are among them,” Klose said.

“My wife and I have been to Rome on vacation and it is a fantastic city.”

“I was close to Lazio in January, but Bayern wanted money that they weren’t prepared to pay.”

“Now I am in charge of my own destiny.”

“I need to talk to the Lazio directors, but can tell the fans that if I do come, then I won’t let you down.”

“I am very enthusiastic, I work very hard and never give in.”

“My shirt is always wet through with sweat at the final whistle.”

Klose remains an important player for the German national team and feels he is capable of proving himself in a new league.

“I was no longer part of their plans, but I want to be a protagonist with the German team, so I need to play more regularly,” he said.

“I do not feel remotely old at 33. If anything, I am very motivated at the idea of starting again in a new environment.”

Klose is the second most prolific striker in Germany’s history with 61 goals in 109 international caps, just eight behind the legendary Gerd Muller.

Jones signing would give Liverpool plenty of options

With Liverpool reportedly interested in Blackburn Rovers ’ centre back Phil Jones , I thought it maybe a good idea to look hypothetically at which centre back partnership would be best for the Reds if the 19 year old did in fact arrive this summer:

Carragher & Skrtel – This partnership has been solid for the most part since King Kenny arrived as manager. While Jamie had his injury problems last season, Skrtel has played every minute of every Premier League match, with his form improving as the campaign went on. A concern for me with the pairing is that they encourage the backline to play too deep when they play because of their lack of pace, and they also lack the ability to pass out from the back; a quality essential to Dalglish’s pass and move philosophy.

Carragher & Agger – A cornerstone of Liverpool’s Champions League final run in 2007, the pairing has had limited game time together in recent seasons due to injuries to both players. While the Dane is the most gifted player on the ball, allowing an additional midfield option when bringing the ball forward, Carra compliments his footballing centre half partner, with his organisation and communication and no-nonsense defending. With the number of injuries to Agger and the fact that Carragher is now 33, it means this partnership could not be seen to be a long term solution for Liverpool’s centre back issues.

Agger & Skrtel – This pairing is definitely one of my favourites for a variety of reasons. For starters, Skrtel really needs somebody alongside him, such as Agger or Carragher, who can be decisive and authoritative. I think it is fair to say that the Slovakian is not the best organiser at the back and he kind of needs somebody alongside him who can communicate well, and ensure he is in the right place at the right time. Skrtel’s aerial ability combined with Agger’s passing range means the pairing compliment each other very well.

Agger & Jones – So how would this pairing fair? Very well in my opinion for both have decent pace but most importantly both can pass the ball out from the back. No doubt Kenny has been looking at Jones primarily because of his capabilities with the ball at feet. The 19 year old can play in central midfield too, and has played very well when asked to play there, and added on to the fact he has very good aerial ability, like the Skrtel/Agger partnership, they should work well together.

Jones & Skrtel – Another partnership I don’t see many problems with other than the fact they maybe a lack of leadership or organisation if they played together. As I have said already, I believe Skrtel always needs a guiding hand when playing in defence and I am unsure that at 19 years of age whether Jones will be authoritative enough yet to organise the backline.

Jones & Carragher – This pairing probably would have the greatest potential for next season if Agger is unfit. Jones will learn a hell of a lot playing alongside Carra in the centre of defence, and it would be great for our vice captain to be able to give the next generation any pearls of wisdom he can provide. In addition, Jones has the ability to pass the ball out from the defence, complimenting Carra’s no-nonsense style.

For me, each pairing has its merits if we did purchase Phil Jones . Which would you go for?

Euro 2012 qualifying preview: Group E hots up

The race for second place in Euro 2012 qualifying Group E will be on in earnest on Tuesday, with Sweden, Finland and Hungary all in action.The Netherlands have a six-point lead in the group, with six wins from six matches, with Sweden the next best on 12 points.

Hungary are third with nine points ahead of their trip to minnows San Marino, and Finland are fourth with six, desperately in need of full points from their trip to Sweden to keep their hopes alive.

Sweden coach Erik Hamren certainly has no worries up front before the Finland match, even without suspended superstar Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

In their last match the Swedes had no trouble accounting for Moldova 4-1, with Bolton striker Johan Elmander bagging a brace and PSV Eindhoven front man Ola Toivonen was also on the scoresheet.

Elsewhere on Tuesday, Germany could increase their lead on top of Group A to 10 points with a win in Azerbaijan.

In Group C, Estonia will look to keep their slim chances of finishing second intact – and bounce back from their 3-0 loss in Italy on Friday – when they visit bottom side the Faroe Islands.

Second-placed Belarus will be trying to keep the pressure on Group D leaders France when they play host to cellar dwellers Luxembourg while Bosnia and Herzegovina can keep their push for second place going when they welcome Albania.

An enjoyable transfer window ahead for Arsenal?

Arsenal manager, Arsene Wenger. So last night, I renewed my season ticket for next year’s Premier League campaign.

It hurts to see your side crash and burn in such a devastating manner, but it’s even more difficult to accept that the club have decided to boost ticket prices, again, despite such another disappointing season, in terms of silverware and league position.

Despite being such a dedicated supporter of The Arsenal, it’s always hard paying such a big chunk of cash right here, right now. Unfortunately, it’s a drug and I’m addicted to it. And is there a cure? Definitely not for me!

Anyway, it’s done. It’s paid for. I would moan, but my complaints would only be echoes of what every Gooner on the planet is saying at the moment. Certainly, it’s a topic that doesn’t need any explanation or opinion from me.

Moans and groans aside, we can now turn our heads to next season and begin to start looking forward to “an active transfer window” – those are the words of Arsene Wenger.

A few of my Arsenal friends have suggested to me that we could drop towards mid-table, IF we don’t have a successful transfer window.

I agree with this, to an extent.

I understand that we need to buy a number of quality players that will deliver for us when we need them to, at both ends of the pitch.

Alternatively, I also appreciate that we need to flog a few of our under-achieving individuals. Players who we’ve held onto for a number of years now, should be encouraged to find a new club.

There’s no doubt that they are still very good footballers. I’m confident that we’ll recieve multiple offers from clubs from all around the world. But we have got to understand that the players just aren’t good enough, if we are going to bring back the glory days.

I’ll admit that I am probably a little too generous when it comes to giving players chances. But even I will state that it’s clear to pick out the players in our side, who should be nudged towards a move away from North London – unless Denilson wants to make the short trip up the Seven Sisters to Tottenham?

Jokes aside (and hatred…. oh, and bias too!), every one of them has had a decent moment somewhere down the line. Although it’s obvious to see that the time is up for some of them, we’ll always remember them for their commitment to the cause.

Naturally, I’ll wish them all good luck for the future. There’s no doubt about that. But I’ll always remain adamant that these kind of players moving away from Arsenal is an obvious step forward for the club.

I’ll pray that we all have an enjoyable transfer window, with many new faces coming in that will strengthen our side, in our bid to become a dominant force in world football once again.

One game too many for England players

England’s 2-2 draw with Switzerland at Wembley proved that the game was one too many for most of the Three Lions players.

The whole England team looked lethargic and that resulted in a poor performance.

Beach

It looked like most of England teams minds were somewhere else. I’m sure I spotted some beach towels on the Wembley pitch at one point! Most of the English players looked like they were already on holiday.

Friendly

The England players seemed to treat this game as a friendly, rather than a crucial European Championship qualifier. The draw leaves England’s qualification hopes in doubt with a difficult trip to Montenegro still to come.

Energy

The long hard season looked to have taken the toll in the Wembley summer sun. There was just no energy in the English performance at all. The verve and pace of the game that is usually on display when England are at their best didn’t show up until the second half when Ashley Young was introduced.

The first half was just so lacklustre it was unbelievable. The Swiss players seemed quicker and more energetic. At times in the first half they showed England how to play. For large spells of the opening period they looked like the home team.

Decent

Don’t be mistaken the Swiss are by no means a team of also ran’s. They have players playing in the Premier League, Serie A and Bundesliga and have some quality players. The Swiss also have some talented youngsters expected to become top players in the future. However most England fans would have expected the Three Lions to overcome the visitors. The Swiss obviously didn’t read the script.

Mistake

For the life of me I couldn’t understand why England boss Fabio Capello didn’t pick Ashley Young in his starting line-up.

As soon as I saw the teamsheet I thought where is Ashley Young? Although Ashley Young isn’t quite an established England player yet, he is a player that can excite fans.

James Milner is a player who will give you his all but in recent times hasn’t done anything to excite me on the pitch. At home against Switzerland England should be going out to win the game.

The selection of James Milner ahead of Ashley Young told me that Capello was being slightly cautious in his approach. The decision backfired after his side went 2-0 down and he had to put Young on at half-time anyway.

Change

The whole atmosphere around the England camp has changed since the World Cup debacle. There has been a new sense of optimism in recent months about the Three Lions. The new optimism came from the sense that Capello had injected some freshness into the team.

It was no longer the same old same old team. The team that looked so stale in South Africa. I just hope that this result doesn’t destroy that sense of optimism. There is still a lot more to come from this England squad.

More players to come back into the team and hopefully when the next qualifier comes around the players will be in a better mental and physical state.

Where the England players tired after a long season?

Manchester United pondering Nani sale

Manchester United could decide to cash in on Nani this summer, according to Sunday Mirror.

The Portuguese winger has become unsettled at Old Trafford after the club refused to offer him an improved contract, while the player is also unhappy with the lack of playing time.

The 24-year-old lost his starting place when Antonio Valencia returned to action, with Sir Alex Ferguson’s decision not to start him in the Champions League final against Barcelona further upsetting the player.

With Manchester United set to complete the signing of England international Ashley Young, they are exploring the possibility of selling the Portuguese winger in the next transfer window.

Real Madrid are reportedly ready to offer Nani an escape route from Old Trafford, although the high asking price could scupper the deal as United want £40 million for the Portugal international.

Milan defender Marek Jankulovski has announced his retirement from football at the age of 34

Milan defender Marek Jankulovski has announced his retirement from football at the age of 34.

The Czech Republic defender decided to hang up his boots after seeing his chances limited at San Siro this season.

“We had a very deep squad this season, there were 31 players, while only 11 could play at a time,” Jankulovski told Milan Channel.

“It wasn’t easy to make everyone play, so some inevitably had to sit out, but the important thing was to keep everyone involved, let it be a starter, a substitute or someone who watched the games from the stands.

“Coming to Italy from the Czech Republic was a big thing, not everyone has the chance to do it. And I lasted 11 years, six of which I spent at Milan, playing lots of games and being part of many victories. The beginning was not easy, but then everything was marvelous.

“Italy is my second homeland now, as is Milan my second home, but things come to an end. Fortunately, the memories remain and looking back on what I accomplished I realize all the great things I could do at Milan.”

“I don’t know, but I definitely won’t begin a coaching career. I wouldn’t mind working as a sports director or maybe as an agent to work with young lads and give back to football.”

The former Czech Republic international amassed 158 appearances for Milan after arriving from Udinese, while he represented the national team no less than 77 times.

List of the best purchases made in the EPL clubs this season.

2010-2011 premier league season has entered the arena the second half and as we all know that both the transfer market before the summer transfer window and started the competition as well as the winter transfer window was interrupted by a pause into the second half of the competition has closed, it is worth listening-name name players switching clubs or new players entering the scene who shone in the EPL this season.

In the summer transfer market is not a lot of players out of the arena the premier league but we can see that one of the best purchases were made by Tottenham Hotspur to bring Rafael Van der Vaart of Real Madrid.

Van der Vaart is sluggish and does not shine in Madrid became a figure of considerable influence and changes in the body of Harry Redknapp's squad this season. He became one of the main factors of success Spurs diajang local competition and arena league champions.

Van der Vaart scored 10 goals from 19 appearances arena premier league, 12 goals for Spurs in all the event proved how quickly adapt and adjust himself with the team and league competition. Van der Vaart to prove himself worthy enough for the Spurs, so the club was worth it to pay £ 8 million to recruit him.

In the second place perch Raul Meireles who carried off the name of Liverpool FC Porto with a value of 11.5 million pounds transfer. The Portuguese player requires a little time to adjust, but her performance in the last 2 months is quite a lot has given inspired changes to the resurrection of Liverpool and Liverpool. He has scored 5 goals in 6 games last including a victory over Chelsea goal and become the savior for the Reds lately.

In third place is a player from Nigeria, Peter Odemwingie who was recruited by West Bromwich from Lokomotiv Moscow. Odemwingie not take up too much public attention because he plays for a small team but these players become a mainstay weapon West Brom by contributing nine goals from 21 appearances West Brom defended its inaugural season. If West Bromwich relegated at the end of this season probably a lot of big clubs who would gladly hold them.

Manchester United in this season, although not many players make a purchase, even in the winter transfer market and they do not perform any activity but one of their purchases in the summer transfer market is considered as one of the best purchases made by an English club this season, Javier Hernandes perch ranked fourth, were recruited from Chivas Guadalajara by Man Utd, players with this Chicarito call has received widespread attention because of his compelling, he managed to scored 11 goals for Man Utd than 27 appearances and a lot of appearances and goals that he created as a substitute player.

Arsenal are also known to frequently make purchases brilliant ranked 5th in which they recruit Laurent Koscielny of Lorient with a transfer value of £ 8:45. Koscielny central figure directly into the heart of the defense the Gunners, who happened to be lucky to get a major role due to direct injury of the two pillars of Arsenal's defense, Thomas Vermaelen and Sebastien Squillaci.

This is a list of 10 best players who made the purchase of club league season 2010-2011.

1. Rafael van der Vaart (Tottenham Hotspur from Real Madrid 8 million pounds - 24 games, 12 goals in all competitions)

2. Raul Meireles (Liverpool from FC Porto 11.5 million pounds - 27 games, 5 goals)

3. Peter Odemwingie (West Bromwich Albion from Lokomotiv Moscow 1 million pounds - 21 games, 9 goals)

4. Javier Hernandez (Manchester United from Chivas Guadalajara transfer pricing is not known - 27 games, 11 goals)

5. Laurent Koscielny (Arsenal from Lorient 8:45 million pounds - 31 games, 2 goals)

6. Asamoah Gyan (Sunderland from the Rennes 13 million pounds - 25 games, 10 goals)

7. Marouane Chamakh (Arsenal from Bordeaux free transfer - 31 games, 10 goals)

8. Yaya Toure (Manchester City from Barcelona 24 million pounds - 31 games, 4 goals)

9. David Silva (Manchester City from Valencia for 24 million pounds - 35 games, 5 goals)

10. Frederic Piquionne (West Ham United from Lyon kept secret transfer value 31 games, 8 goals)

SPECIAL: Paul Scholes Career Track

After several weeks of speculation, Paul Scholes ensure its future by deciding to retire as a player. But it would be nice if re-look at the track record of success

1974: Paul Scholes was born in Salford on November 16

1991: Joined Manchester United only in practice sessions.

1992: Helps Manchester United's youth team won the FA Cup Junior

1993: Contracted professionally by Manchester United

1994/95: On 24 September, Scholes melakoni his debut for Manchester United against Ipswich Town. In this season, he appeared 17 times and scored five goals.

1995/96: Achieved his first title with Manchester United in the Premier League and FA Cup. Scholes appeared 26 times and scored ten goals.

1996/97: Maintain the Premier League championship trophy, in which he scored three goals and 24 appearances.

May 9, 1997: Received the first call to England when Glenn Hoddle was still handled

May 24, 1997: diving debut for England as a substitute against South Africa at Old Trafford.

June 4, 1997: Playing for England in Le Tournoi and scored his first goal against Italy.

May 1998: Selected in the composition of the England squad for World Cup 1998

June 1998: Printing a second goal when England win over Tunisia 2-0 in World Cup finals.

March 1999: Print the first hat trick for the England team during a 3-1 win over Poland in Euro 2000 qualifier at Wembley

May 1999: Being a historic moment for Manchester United because it can win the treble title, Champions League, Premier League and FA Cup. However, in the Champions League final against Bayern Munich, Scholes sidelined because of sanction.

January 2000: Absent defended Manchester United in the Club World Cup since undergoing hernia surgery.

June 2000: Print the first goal for England when bent Portugal 3-2 in Euro 2000.

2001/02: Completed domestic season with eight goals from 35 appearances and became part of the England squad that penetrates the World Cup quarter-final.

2002/03: Achieved his best achievement to break through the opponent's goal 14 times for United and bring his team won the eighth Premier League title. Scholes also scored a hat-trick when winning 6-2 victory over Newastle United. Total, Scholes scored 20 goals in all competitions in that season.

February 14, 2004: Shown for the 400th time with United in the FA Cup fifth round against Manchester City. United won 4-2 and Scholes scored the first goal for his team.

August 3, 2004: Decided retired from international football with England at the age of 29 years.

August 12, 2005: Signed a four-season contract with Manchester United that made him survive until 2009.

January 24, 2006: Absent three months because of problems with his eyesight. But Scholes sidelined much longer and could not appear until the last match United in the season.

October 22, 2006: Shown in the 500th United's match against Liverpool at Old Trafford, scoring the first goal and gave his side won 2-0. At the end of the season, led United's Scholes earned his ninth in the era.

May 21, 2008: Bringing drama Manchester United won through on penalties against Chelsea in the Champions League final in Moscow.

16 April 2010: Signed a one season contract with Manchester United, which is the last contract that was signed as a United player.

May 2010: Helps United retain Premier League title and say no Fabio Capello returned to the England team for World Cup 2010.

May 2011: Driving United earned his 19th in the Premier League, but failed to carry his team won the Champions League after losing to Barcelona 3-1 at Wembley.

May 31, 2011: Announces retirement from the world who raised his name and expressed a desire to survive at Old Trafford as a coach.

Villarreal’s Giuseppe Rossi in negotiation with Barcelona – agent

Federico Pastorello has revealed that his client has been formally approached by the Spanish and European champions, and that they have been told about the forward’s market price

Villarreal striker Giuseppe Rossi’s agent has revealed that negotiations with Barcelona have already begun over the transfer of the striker to Camp Nou.

The 24-year-old Italy international is one of the players reportedly on the Spanish and European champions’ radar and has said from time to time that he wants to play for a bigger club.

It now seems that Rossi’s dream of featuring for a European powerhouse could come true, as Barca have already made an approach for him, according to his agent Federico Pastorello.

“We are talking with Barcelona and Rossi would love to play for the club,” Pastorello is quoted as saying by Spanish daily AS. “His price-tag is between €25 million and €30m.

“We are now waiting for news from Barca.”

Rossi joined Villarreal from Manchester United in 2007 and has played in over 100 Primera Division matches. He had a productive 2010-11 campaign for the Yellow Submarine, scoring 18 goals and providing six assists in 36 league appearances, and helped them finish in the top-four in the table. He also played a key role in their run to the Europa League semi-finals.

Barcelona outclassed Manchester United in the Champions League final - Real Madrid's Mesut Ozil

Germany international is pleased with his development since moving to Spain, and feels that his club will continue to improve as a whole in 2011-12

Real Madrid and Germany star Mesut Ozil expressed satisfaction with his first year in Spain, and despite Barcelona's recent triumph in the Champions League final, bullishly claimed that the Blancos can match their domestic rivals.

"[The season] went very well for me, I made good progress and we won a trophy. And that's why I moved there: to win titles," he said during a press conference.

The 22-year-old had a spectacular season for Madrid, scoring 10 goals and providing 25 assists in all competitions. Though Madrid beat Barcelona in the Copa del Rey final, the playmaker believes his team failed overall, by losing to their rivals in both the Champions League and La Liga.

Reflecting on the recent Champions League final, Ozil feels Barcelona outclassed Manchester United, but is convinced that Real Madrid will be able to get the better of the Catalan side next season.

"You could see in the final, [Barcelona] were the better team. We have failed and were sad about it. But we know what potential we have. We have the potential to beat Barcelona," he concluded.

The capital city club finished four points behind Barca in the 2010-11 campaign.

Paul Scholes retires and will take on Manchester United coaching role next season

The 36-year old bows out of playing as one of the most decorated footballers of his generation, picking up 24 winners medals during his time with the Red Devils

Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes has announced his retirement from playing but will remain at the club in a coaching capacity.

Scholes, who came through the United academy as part of the club's famous group of youngsters in the mid-1990s, played more than 650 times for the Old Trafford outfit and is widely acknowledged as one of the finest English footballers of his generation.

A one club man, Scholes picked up 24 winners medals during his time with the Red Devils, including 10 Premier League wins and two Champions League successes after making his debut in September 1994.

However, having struggled to secure first-team football this season, the 36-year old has opted not to sign a new playing contract at the club but will remain alongside Sir Alex Ferguson in a coaching role.

In a statement released on the club's official site, Scholes said: "I am not a man of many words but I can honestly say that playing football is all I have ever wanted to do and to have had such a long and successful career at Manchester United has been a real honour.

"This was not a decision that I have taken lightly but I feel now is the right time for me to stop playing. To have been part of the team that helped the club reach that 19th title is a great privilege.

"I would like to thank the fans for their tremendous support throughout my career, I would also like to thank all the coaches and players that I have worked with over the years, but most of all I would like to thank Sir Alex for being such a great manager, from the day I joined the club his door has always been open and I know this team will go on to win many more trophies under his leadership."

Ferguson has led the tributes to the former England international, stating that Scholes is an inspirational figure.

He said: "What more can I say about Paul Scholes that I haven't said before. We are going to miss a truly unbelievable player. Paul has always been fully committed to this club and I am delighted he will be joining the coaching staff from next season.

"Paul has always been inspirational to players of all ages and we know that will continue in his new role."

The club's chief executive, David Gill, has also paid tribute to the veteran, saying: "It is a very sad day for Manchester United fans around the world. We all know that Paul was one of the players that came through the ranks of the academy system in the 1990's and has established himself as one of the greatest players to ever wear the United shirt.

"It is very important that the club keeps its association with these great players and we are delighted that Paul will join the coaching staff."

New deal for Owen at Manchester United

Sir Alex Ferguson has handed Michael Owen a shock lifeline at Manchester United in the form of a one-year contract extension.Owen was widely expected to be a casualty at Old Trafford in the off-season as struggles with fitness and the meteoric rise of Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernandez combined to limit the 31-year-old’s playing time.

The former Liverpool striker started just one Premier League game for the English champions last season, his second at Old Trafford after moving from Newcastle United.

Nevertheless, Owen made it clear he wanted to stay at United even in a bit-part capacity, and the club has granted his wish.

“I’m delighted to have agreed a one-year extension to my contract,” Owen said.

“To play alongside so many great players, under an exceptional manager, and in front of so many incredibly passionate supporters, is a real inspiration. I can’t wait for next season to start.”

Ferguson stunned many when he handed Owen a spot on the bench for United’s Champions League final against Barcelona on Saturday, ahead of joint league top-scorer Dimitar Berbatov.

Perhaps mindful of an exodus of experience at Old Trafford following the retirements of Paul Scholes and Edwin van der Sar, the manager said he was delighted to have retained Owen and committed to giving him more opportunities in the next campaign.

“Michael has proved to be a top footballer,” Ferguson said.

“It’s unfortunate Michael didn’t get more opportunities but the form of Chicharito put everyone in the shade and his partnership with Rooney proved invaluable.”

“I am delighted Michael is staying for a further year and we will look to give him more opportunities in the new season.”

Buffon relishing chance to rebuild Italy squad

Italy captain Gianluigi Buffon insists he is enjoying the task of helping reinvent the national side after a disastrous 2010 World Cup campaign.The Italian squad endured a miserable time in South Africa last June, finishing with just two points and bottom of a group containing Paraguay, Slovakia and New Zealand as they failed to qualify for the knockout phase for just the second time.

Under Cesare Prandelli, who replaced Marcello Lippi as coach after the tournament, Italy have bounced back quickly and are favourites to qualify for Euro 2012 from Group C.

They are five points clear of Slovenia and Serbia at the top of the table ahead of their qualifier against Estonia in Modena on Friday, and 33-year-old Juventus goalkeeper Buffon said he is enjoying being involved in rebuilding the side.

“It has been a great since the 2010 World Cup as we try rebuild a winning project and build a team able to qualify for the next European Championships,” Buffon said.

“This could have been unbelievable, but we shouldn’t take anything for granted. There is still a match to be played and we hope we’ll be playing our best.”

Buffon also said he was pleased with the choice of Antonio Conte as his new boss at Juventus, after the 41-year-old club legend replaced the outgoing Luigi Delneri.

“The previous coach has done an excellent job, which has not been supported by the results for a number of reasons which we won’t be listing now,” said Buffon, who ruled out a move to English Premier League side Arsenal on Wednesday by committing his future to Juventus.

“As far as Antonio Conte’s choice is concerned, I think his history is very clear: he’s won in almost all of his four or five years as a coach.”

“He conveys something successful. He is a very charismatic and positive person, he was like that as a player.”

“He knows Juventus very well and knows what it is needed to coach such a team.”

“There’s a lot to do in order to win but all players should be available and willing and the club should be very supportive since a coach can never win without the support of the club.”

Balotelli ruled out for Azzurri

Italy have lost enigmatic striker Mario Balotelli for their Euro 2012 qualifier against Estonia on Friday with a knee injury.The Manchester City player hurt his right knee – on which he had surgery last September – just 13 minutes into a practice match against an Italy Under-18 side on Tuesday.

After a series of tests, team doctor Enrico Castellacci said 20-year-old Balotelli ‘would not have recovered in time for Friday’s game’.

The former Inter Milan player will also sit out next Tuesday’s friendly against the Republic of Ireland in Liege.

“To try to get him fit for the friendly against the Republic of Ireland would have been a risk not worth taking,” Dr Castellacci said.

Italy coach Cesare Prandelli is also without Inter’s Thiago Motta, who injured his leg earlier this week.

Nicklas Bendtner transfer value of 11 Million Pounds

Other clubs Arsenal striker can get it with a value of £ 11 million transfer.

Having expressed readiness to leave Arsenal, Nicklas Bendtner now has its own transfer value.

Disclosed father, who was also once an agent Bendtner, Thomas, his son is worth 11 million pounds and not less.

"He even had time to have a higher selling price previously," said Thomas told Danish newspaper BT

"But of course, because she often was on the bench, so its value falls.

He added, Nicklas had a quality that is fitting with that bandrolnya price.

"We are also sure I can find the right club who are willing to pay a transfer value," he explained.

Football Transfers Preview: Ins and Outs for the Six Premier League Title Contenders

The title race is looking like a genuine four-horse race for next season with any one of Chelsea, Liverpool, and Manchesters City and United in with a shout of the title.

In this article, I look at why they fell short- or in the case of United, won the league- and what is needed this summer for a successful challenge in the forthcoming season. I have also included North London rivals Arsenal and Tottenham, to acknowledge what has effectively become a ‘Big Six’ in the last two seasons.

Arsenal

This season, with Chelsea’s horrific run of form in the run up to Christmas and Manchester United, on paper at least, perhaps weaker than in previous years, Arsenal had their greatest opportunity in years for Premier League glory and while there were some notable highlights for Arsenal, beating the mercurial Barcelona at the Emirates Stadium and Manchester United, but ultimately, Arsene Wenger’s charges fell embarrassingly short yet again.

Arsenal’s main problem, while they do have personnel dilemmas (what side does not), is that they have a chronic inability to perform when in reach of any goal: they were outclassed at the Nou Camp when holding a one goal lead from the first leg; they infamously choked in the Carling Cup final against relative minnows Birmingham and worst of all, after that defeat at Wembley, won only two of their remaining ten league fixtures which undeniably cost them the league title. They make Cardiff look a bastion of steel at times.

It is on this basis that I have discounted them as title contenders next season. Any side that cannot win a game from 4-0 up, cannot win the title; Arsenal could be ten points clear with four games to go and I would probably put money on them being caught, such is their mental fragility.

In personnel terms, they seem to have gone a long way to solving their goalkeeping crisis with the emergence from the academy of Wojciech Szczesny, who at twenty-one, who is a great prospect, but needs time, as the Carling Cup final illustrated. However, the Gunners are crying out for at least one centre-half. This weakness was exaggerated by the absence of Thomas Vermaelen all season through injury and Johan Djourou did a decent job in his place, but one is definitely needed.

The likely targets are Bolton’s Gary Cahill and Blackburn’s Christopher Samba; there has been talk of a move for Werder Bremen’s Per Mertesacker, but the German is exactly the Koscielny and Squillaci-like defender- slight in frame and fragile in mind- that has landed the Gunners in so much trouble in the past.

Additionally, a holding midfielder to push Alex Song, who has no competition within the squad, and I would question greatly whether Song is a title winning midfielder at any rate. Back up for Robin van Persie is also vital to Arsenal’s chances. While he stayed relatively injury free this campaign, one never knows when the Dutchman’s body will give way and both Nicklas Bendtner and Marouane Chamakh have shown themselves to be inadequate substitutes.

As for the manager, no one can argue that he is anything but world class- his ability to spot a young talent and then nurture it is second to none. However, he has a serious blind spot at centre-half and may consider cashing in on a Cesc Fabregas whose mind appears to be elsewhere these days.

Wenger should get rid of: Manuel Almunia, Lukasz Fabianski, Sebastien Squillaci, Laurent Koscielny, Abou Diaby, Denilson, Nicklas Bendtner.

Chelsea

The problems facing the new Chelsea boss, whoever that may be, will be twofold.

Firstly, they must deal with the most fickle owner in world football, who almost single-handedly cost Chelsea the title this time round. Will the new man be allowed to appoint his own staff? (In doing so, getting rid of Abramovich’s own spy, Michael Emenalo) and will he be allowed to leave out Fernando Torres and have control over transfer policy in general? Two vital issues. I suspect the answer to both is yes, so long as your name is Guus Hiddink.

Secondly, the new man will have to deal with an aging squad. It appears that many of the Chelsea squad are past their best, stalwarts from the Jose Mourinho days whose positions in the side have never been questioned, largely because of the immense player power, led by the eternally over-rated John Terry, that saw the ends of Mourinho, Avram Grant and Luiz Felipe Scolari. Moreover, they need to establish whether they are to play in a 4-3-3 or play with two out and out strikers, an indecision that crippled Carlo Ancelotti.

Of course there is the question of who the new man will be. This appointment will provide most of the answers to the queries posed. If it is Hiddink, then he will get a free rein, but is he a better manager than Ancelotti? I would say not. Hiddink has overachieved with minnows, like PSV Eindhoven and South Korea, but won nothing at big clubs like Valencia, only an Intercontinental Cup at Real Madrid and only finished third with Chelsea in his previous stint.

Other than that, Andre Villas-Boas has ruled himself out, not wanting to mirror the path of his predecessor at Porto, while the Special One himself is also staying put. All of a sudden there are few options. Grant again? Chelsea fans will pray that that curse is not placed upon them.

Who should leave Stamford Bridge: Hilario, Paulo Ferreira, John Obi Mikel, Yury Zhirkov, Yossi Benayoun, Didier Drogba, Nicolas Anelka.

Liverpool

While Arsenal and Chelsea have been dogged by deep-rooted issues, Liverpool are very much a team on the up after torturous times under Rafael Benitez and then Roy Hodgson- though given time I think Hodgson would have done a good job. ‘King’ Kenny Dalglish has rejuvenated the Reds, replaced Torres, and brought through some youth teamers- a policy that is long overdue.

The likes of John Flanagan, Jack Robinson, Martin Kelly and Jay Spearing are the first youth products since the emergence of now thirty-one year-old Steven Gerrard to make the first team and have proven more than capable in the world’s most demanding division. So long as the funds are made available by new owner, John Henry, then there is no reason why Liverpool cannot push on for a title challenge given the huge reputation of the club within Europe.

Liverpool desperately needs cover at centre-half with Jamie Carragher aging rapidly and questions over the ability of Martin Skrtel. Questions also need to be asked as to whether Glen Johnson’s defensive frailties are too grave for Liverpool to launch a serious title challenge, while an extra man in the middle of the park to assist Spearing, Raul Meireles and the questionable Lucas Leiva would not go a miss.

Dalglish should get rid of: Sotiris Kyrgiakos, Fabio Aurelio, Christian Poulsen, Milan Jovanovic, David N’Gog.

Manchester City:

The sky is not even the limit. Many have argued that had City had a more attack-minded and inspiring man at the helm this season, they may have won the title, and I agree, however, one must realise that these men are few and far between- Alex Ferguson, Mourinho, Pep Guardiola, Ottmar Hitzfeld and I am out. With funds available, Roberto Mancini will further improve an already impressive squad that no matter what your opinion of the manager, will make them a formidable contender next season.

The on-going Carlos Tevez saga needs resolving and ultimately, the only long-term outcome appears to be his eventual departure from Eastlands- though who, apart from perhaps Real Madrid, could match his quarter of a million a week wages I do not know. Tevez’s departure would mean that City would need a world class striker, though Mario Balotelli has the potential to assume that role. Moreover, Gareth Barry is far from the player he was under Martin O’Neill at Aston Villa and subsequently needs replacing and City need to find a quality left-back with the signings of Aleksandar Kolarov and Pablo Zabaleta having not been justified.

Mancini should get rid of: Shay Given (because he is too good be sat on any bench, not because he is not good enough), Pablo Zabaleta, Joleon Lescott, Aleksandar Kolarov, Wayne Bridge, Gareth Barry, Patrick Vieira, Jo, Roque Santa Cruz, Emmanuel Adebayor.

Manchester United

Ferguson has once again proved that he is on a level well above everyone else. Where Chelsea’s veterans have floundered, Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes and Edwin van der Sar have been ever-present at Old Trafford this season. Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic reaffirmed their status as the Premier League’s finest partnership in the heart of the defence, while Javier Hernandez proved the buy of the season, a snip at only seven million pounds.

Many have criticised this United side for not having many truly great players- I must disagree. Wayne Rooney is certainly one, and though his early season form was atrocious, he was imperious at the so-called ‘business end’ of the season to play are large role in United winning the Premier League and reaching the Champions League final.

Everyone would agree that that pattern of form is far more desirable than that displayed by Zlatan Ibrahimovic every season-great until Christmas and then afterwards one of the most ineffective players in world football- yet few question his reputation. The likes of Ferdinand, Vidic, Patrice Evra and even youngsters Hernandez and Luis Antonio Valencia are sublime players.

Ferguson does however need to strengthen. The retirement of van der Sar and Tomasz Kuszczak’s abysmal form late in the season means that the Red Devils will desperately need a keeper, with Spanish teenager David de Gea the favourite to replace the Dutchman. Scholes and Giggs will gradually be phased out of the side given their growing years and tiring legs, so United will need a creative midfielder and a holding midfielder to play in the middle of the park.

Darren Fletcher’s form this season has been indifferent, while Michael Carrick, while a fantastic passer of the ball, lacks pace at the highest level of competition, as was evident in Saturday’s Champions League final against the superb Barcelona. It looks as though Ferguson will offer to triple the wages of Spurs’ player of the season, Luka Modric, who is only on forty thousand per week at the Lane, and who, of course, will be deprived of Champions League football next year should he stay. Elsewhere, Giggs’ long-term successor looks likely to be Aston Villa’s Ashley Young, with reports suggesting that Nani may leave for the Old Lady.

Ferguson should sell: Tomasz Kuszczak, John O’Shea, Jonny Evans, Darron Gibson, Gabriel Obertan.

Tottenham

Spurs undoubtedly have the hardest task of keeping up with the pace at the top- they do not quite have the reputation and standing of Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester United- although their impressive Champions League campaign has certainly raised their profile on the continent -nor the war chest of Man City, plus they do will not have Champions League football. Spurs do have a lot of money, but Daniel Levy is reluctant to shell out on excessive wages. Harry Redknapp’s nous in the transfer market will definitely be key.

First and foremost, Spurs must make sure they keep hold of the mercurial midfielder Luka Modric; with Gareth Bale’s susceptibility to injury and Rafael van der Vaart’s dip in form towards the end of the season, Modric has emerged as Tottenham’s most valuable asset and will have to hold off serious interest from Manchester United and Chelsea this summer. To launch a challenge for Champions League qualification and potentially the championship, they need to learn to kill off games; too many draws have cost Spurs dearly this season and no doubt progress in the Europa League will only hamper any domestic aspirations.

Spurs desperately need a marquees striker and have made serious enquiries into both of Porto’s frontmen Hulk and Radamel Falcao, though it appears Hulk’s price tag of thirty-five million euros will deter Redknapp from tabling a formal bid; even so, Andre Villas-Boas’ announcement that he is staying at the Dragao for at least another season may be enough to convince the Porto squad to stick and launch what would be a strong bid for European honours next season.

Jermain Defoe, Peter Crouch and Roman Pavlyuchenko are all good, but they are not gamebreakers- to quote FIFA Street. How Redknapp wishes he would have accommodated the superb Darren Bent into his team. Furthermore, with William Gallas the wrong side of thirty, Michael Dawson is the only top centre-half at White Hart Lane.

Both of Birmingham’s steadfast pairing of Roger Johnson and Scott Dann have been linked with a move to North London, but again, the Blues’ asking price of fourteen million for Dann will certainly make Redknapp think twice. Meanwhile, out on the flanks, Benoit Assou-Ekotto and Alan Hutton are inept at full-back, though both Danny Rose and Kyle Walker look like decent prospects. Heurelho Gomes also needs replacing; his ability to go from the sublime to the ridiculous is extraordinary- he broke the record against Blackpool, saving a penalty and then giving one away all in the space of thirty seconds.

Redknapp should sell: Heurelho Gomes, Alan Hutton, Sebastien Bassong, Jonathan Woodgate, Benoit Assou-Ekotto, Jermaine Jenas, David Bentley, Robbie Keane.