Man City

[joew2005]

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Tevez facing further punishment
October 12, 2011

ESPNsoccernet understands Carlos Tevez is facing further punishment fr ManC 4 his alleged refusal 2 play @ Bayern Munich.

Tevez returned 2 England on Wednesday ahead of the completion of his 2-week suspension aft an apparent unwillingness 2 enter the field as a substitute when called upon by manager Roberto Mancini as City trailed 2-0 @ Bayern in the Champions League.

The Argentina international has already given his version of events 2 City, with the 4ward seemingly suggesting he refused 2 repeat his warm up, rather than refuse 2 enter the field of play @ the Allianz Arena.

ESPNsoccernet has now learned Tevez will be given an opportunity 2 react 2 City's findings fr their inquiry. Conflicting opinions r believed 2 hv been offered by the various players who sat alongside Tevez on the substitutes' bench.

City r considering a strong statement of intent over the incident, with Tevez potentially facing a fine & an increased suspension subject 2 PFA approval, meaning the Argentine could be demoted 2 the reserves ahead of a loan move or a sale in January.

The club's hierarchy remain firmly behind Mancini, who said aft the Bayern game tat Tevez would never play again under his stewardship. An official statement fr City is expected on Wednesday evening.

Meanwhile, Juventus general director Giuseppe Marotta has denied reports tat his club hv started negotiations 2 sign the unsettled striker.

Marotta told Gazzetta dello Sport: "It's normal 2 talk abt players when it comes 2 Juventus. But we hv not started negotiations 2 sign Tevez.

"We hv a squad tat meets our needs & we will evaluate week by week if we r lacking something. We r not the 1s 2 discover Tevez. He is a great player & we r a great club so it's normal tat there is a link, but 2 say tat we r negotiating is a diff matter."

Corinthians remain potential suitors 4 Tevez, aft the club made an offer 4 the 4ward in the summer, but it appears any renewed interest in his signature will see a bid lodged below City's previous asking price of £40 million.

Corinthians president Andres Sanches said in the Daily Mail: "We made an offer in the window, he is a player who interests us, but only in January will we see if we hv a chance. He is not worth £40 million - we will make an offer well below it.

"I don't know if they will accept it, the (financial) gap is huge. I hv a value in mind but I won't say wat it is. The written offer of £40m isn't worth anything nw. Aft all of the problems, he should be worthless. What if he brings these problems here?"

[joew2005]

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City climb above United
October 15, 2011

SAF took a huge gamble with his 4ward line @ Anfield on Saturday, & he needed Javier Hernandez 2 emerge fr the bench 2 produce a rescue act as ManU earned a 1-1 draw with Liverpool. ManC r now the Premier League leaders aft they beat Aston Villa.

Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard, making his 1st start of the season, appeared 2 hv won the derby when he fed a free-kick thru a hospitable-looking United wall in the lunchtime kick-off. However, having failed 2 threaten 4 the majority of the opening 80 mins, United snatched a draw late on when Hernandez arrived unmarked @ a corner.

There was huge news 4 both sides prior 2 kick-off as a combined total of over £150 million of talent was left on the 2 benches. Liverpool confirmed the selection of fit-again skipper Gerrard @ the expense of Andy Carroll, while United's XI featured neither Wayne Rooney nor Hernandez.

Without their star attackers United created next 2 nothing until their late equaliser, & in a tight 1st half Liverpool had the 1 clear opening when Luis Suarez bore down on the United goal, only 2 then make life difficult 4 himself. Staying alive 2 Charlie Adam's mishit shot, Suarez had the goal directly in front of him on his favoured right foot, but he decided 2 fake inside Jonny Evans on2 his left b4 softly shooting straight @ David De Gea.

Liverpool were undoubtedly the better side aft half-time &, aft Dirk Kuyt saw a huge penalty appeal turned down, the Reds took the lead thru Gerrard. Rio Ferdinand was initially fortunate 2 escape a 2nd yellow card 4 felling Adam on the edge of the box, but the foul allowed Gerrard 2 find a whole in the wall caused by Ryan Giggs, giving De Gea no chance in the United goal.

Ferguson responded by throwing Rooney, Nani & Hernandez in2 the fray, & it was the Mexican who equalised fr a corner nine mins fr time. Still there was time 2 win the match & Kuyt should hv done so when his stretching half volley was superbly saved by De Gea, although the Spaniard's best was yet 2 come as he flung himself full length 2 deny Jordan Henderson's dipping volley in injury-time.

ManC were able 2 take advantage of United's slip in their home clash with Aston Villa, defeating Alex McLeish's side 4-1 @ the Etihad Stadium. Roberto Mancini's men continue 2 cope well with the ongoing Carlos Tevez saga, & they now hold a 2-point lead @ the top thanks 2 goals fr Mario Balotelli, Adam Johnson, Vincent Kompany & James Milner.

If there has been a silver lining 2 the cloud caused by the Tevez substitution storm, it is the fact tat Balotelli has been handed more game time in City blue. The Italian was excellent against Blackburn b4 the international break & he got on the scoresheet 1s again aft 28 mins against Villa, sending an overhead kick rattling past former City keeper Shay Given.

2 mins into the 2nd half it was 2-0 when Stephen Warnock's slip allowed Johnson 2 bear down on Given, sliding the ball past the Villa keeper with the minimum of fuss. And by the 52nd min it was game over when Kompany got in on the act, arriving @ the near post 2 glance home Johnson's corner.

Warnock gave Villa a glimmer when he slammed the ball past Joe Hart off the bar, but Milner ended the hopes of his former club with a sublime finish 4 City's 4th.

Chelsea emphatically ended their Everton hoodoo 2 move back 2 within 3 points of ManC with a 3-1 victory @ Stamford Bridge.

The Blues had not beaten Everton since the 2009 FA Cup final & were looking 4 their 1st home win against them in 6 seasons, but goals fr Daniel Sturridge, John Terry & Ramires sealed victory.

Apostolos Vellios netted a late consolation with his 1st touch aft coming off the bench, but Chelsea - inspired by the outstanding Juan Mata - were worthy winners.

At the bottom of the table, Blackburn boss Steve Kean continues 2 find himself under pressure aft Rovers could only draw 1-1 with new boys Queens Park Rangers @ Loftus Road. Defeat leaves Blackburn with just 5 points fr 8 games @ the foot of the table.

In fairness 2 Rovers, there was some fortune attached 2 the opening goal 4 QPR, aft Heidar Helguson's mishit cross found its way over Paul Robinson. Fortunately they only trailed for 8 mins b4 Christopher Samba towered over the Rangers defence 2 level with a trademark header.

Bolton are another side in trouble @ the bottom, but boss Owen Coyle's cause was helped by a 3-1 win against Wigan @ the DW Stadium. Victory lifts the Trotters abv Wigan & out of the bottom 3.

It took just 4 mins 4 Bolton 2 take the lead, Nigel Reo-Coker scoring his 1st Premier League goal for 3 years. However, Wigan were level by the break thanks 2 a curling Mohamed Diame effort fr outside the penalty area.

By half-time Bolton had the noses in front 1s more though, with former Liverpool man David N'Gog converting Kevin Davies' assist fr close range, & it could hv been more comfortable but 4 a woeful penalty miss by Davies - who clipped a soft effort straight @ Ali Al-Habsi. In the end, Bolton had 2 wait until injury-time 4 Chris Eagles 2 settle matters.

Swansea are yet to concede @ home this season but their away form provides a stark contrast aft they conceded goals 10, 11 & 12 in a 3-1 defeat 2 Norwich. Norwich had not scored in the 1st half hour of any league match prior 2 kick-off, but they struck inside the 1st minute @ Carrow Road, Anthony Pilkington doing wat he could not manage @ Old Trafford by finding the net - scoring the quickest Premier League goal of the season in 49 seconds.

It was 2-0 aft 10 mins when Russell Martin capitalised on some poor Swansea defending, but by the 12th the Swans were back in it as Danny Graham swept home aft Scott Sinclair's excellent run. The goal did not inspire a comeback though as Pilkington added his 2nd fr 3 yards, helping Norwich on2 a healthy 11-point tally.

The day's other afternoon fixture saw Stoke continue their European ambitions with a hard-earned 2-0 victory over Fulham @ the Britannia Stadium. It looked like Stoke might be left 2 rue Jermaine Pennant's profligacy in front of goal, but Jon Walters struck with 10 mins remaining b4 Rory Delap killed the Cottagers off.

[joew2005]

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Mancini eyeing City stay
October 17, 2011

Manager Roberto Mancini believes ManC hv become 1 of the best clubs in the world & 1s 2 stay @ the Premier League leaders 4 many years 2 prove it.

Mancini has led City 2 their best start 2 a season since 1897 - winning 7 of their 1st 8 league games - having lifted the FA Cup & sealed Champions League qualification in the last campaign.

The former Inter Milan boss, who succeeded Mark Hughes in December 2009, said: "I hv worked hard 2 build a good team & I think I would like 2 stay here another 3 or 4 years becos I think in tis moment ManC is 1 of the best clubs in the world.''

His contract is set 2 expire in the summer of 2013 &, despite not hearing anything fr the club abt fresh terms, he is unconcerned abt his future. "Aft tis year I hv 1 more year & I don't hv a problem with tis. I haven't talked 2 the club but @ the moment it is not important," Mancini said.

City face a crucial Champions League tie @ home 2 Villarreal on Tuesday as they bid 2 put right a slow start 2 their inaugural campaign. Mancini's men opened with a draw against Napoli, then fell 2 defeat against Bayern Munich in a match overshadowed by Carlos Tevez's alleged refusal 2 come off the bench.

But despite the striker's future casting a cloud over the club @ present following his return fr suspension, Mancini remains upbeat. "My feeling here is good. I would like 2 stay here but in football every week it can change," he said. "If you lose 2 or 3 games, tat can change all - but we r working well."

Argentina 4ward Sergio Aguero returned 2 training on Monday ahead of the Champions League clash & could return 2 the side with Mario Balotelli, impressive in the 4-1 defeat of Aston Villa on Saturday, suspended.

David Silva, Samir Nasri & Edin Dzeko, all substitutes @ the weekend as Mancini juggled his resources, could also come back in.

Villarreal hv lost both of their games in the competition & City 1 2 maximise their back-2-back home & away matches against the Spaniards 2 get in2 contention @ the top of the group.

Mancini said: "Villarreal r a good team. They r used 2 playing Champions League, they hv done so many times in the past 10 years. It will be hard becos they play football very well.

"But 4 us I don't think it is as important 2 play well or not well - it is important we win tis game. I think if we win tis game I think we can win also the group, we hv a chance I think.

"Aft tis we hv another 3 games & I think with 10 points we can go in2 the 2nd stage, but it is important 2 start 2 win 2morrow.''

[joew2005]

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Boca Juniors keen on Tevez return
October 18, 2011

Boca Juniors r the latest club 2 express an interest in signing ostracised ManC striker Carlos Tevez.

Tevez was with the Argentine giants for 7 years betw 1997 & 2004 - making his professional debut in 2001 - b4 making wat was, @ the time, a surprise move 2 Brazil 2 play 4 Corinthians.

But with his future @ City in some doubt, Boca r interested in signing the controversial 4ward 1s again, aft suffering a long-term injury 2 current striker Lucas Viatri.

"We'll make an attempt 2 get Carlos Tevez," Boca vice-president Jose Beraldi said. "I know it will be difficult, but we will try."

The club r unlikely 2 hv the financial resources 2 sign Tevez on a permanent deal, with a loan the more likely option.

However, the Argentine Football Association would hv 2 change their rules 2 allow the club 2 sign a player fr outside the country during the winter - making the prospect of a switch unlikely, even if it might appeal 2 the player.

Tevez is still awaiting a formal hearing with his current club 2 decide his future, as the investigation in2 "alleged breaches of contract" during City's Champions League clash with Bayern Munich goes on.

Boca r the 3rd of Tevez's 4 former teams 2 show an interest in re-signing their former star, following Corinthians & West Ham's overtures.


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Juve warned against Tevez interest
October 14, 2011

Luciano Moggi says tat Juventus should 4get abt signing ManC's controversial striker Carlos Tevez.

Former general director, Moggi, who was 1s responsible 4 signing players 4 the Turin side, believes tat Tevez is best left alone.

The Argentinian 4ward, 27, returned 2 training 4 City on Thursday & awaits a club disciplinary hearing 4 a breach of contract aft allegedly refusing 2 play during a Champions League match against Bayern Munich, resulting in an apparently inevitable exit fr the club.

And, with Juventus believed 2 be amongst those interested in Tevez, Moggi has advised the club 2 reconsider any such transfer.

"Buying a dressing room breaker like Carlos Tevez in January would be the biggest disaster ever tat could hit Juventus who r in the process of rebuilding," Moggi wrote in his Tuttomercatoweb column.

He then added tat regardless, the Old Lady - currently managed by ex-midfielder Antonio Conte - r not yet strong enough 2 win tis season's Scudetto: "The quality of the squad is not enough 2 challenge AC Milan, Inter & Napoli 4 the title."

Since their relegation in 2006 4 their role in the Calciopoli scandal, Juventus hv failed 2 seriously challenge 4 the title with Inter & AC Milan becoming Italy's dominant clubs.

[joew2005]

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Silva: UCL progress will be tough
October 17, 2011

David Silva has admitted tat ManC hv made life difficult 4 themselves in their debut Champions League campaign, but has backed the team 2 improve.

City hv claimed just 1 point fr their opening 2 Group A games, which has left them 3rd behind Bayern Munich & Napoli, facing an uphill task 2 advance 2 the knockout stages.

However, Roberto Mancini's side play bottom-of-the-group Villarreal home & away in their next 2 matches, starting with a must-win clash @ Eastlands on Tuesday night.

And Silva, who boasts plenty of experience of playing in the Champions League, & against Villarreal, fr his time @ Valencia, believes tat while City hv shown some naivety in Europe tis season, they r ready 2 kick on & reach the last 16.

"We hv got alot of games under our belt in the league," Silva said. "In the Champions League we hv only played 2 games & those 2 games were against top sides.

"Maybe it is a case of needing a few more games under our belt in tat competition 2 in order 2 get the same consistency we hv been showing in the league.

"We hv made things a little bit hard 4 ourselves but we can start 2 improve 2night.''

But Silva, 25, warned his team-mates against taking their Spanish opponents 4 granted, despite the Yellow Submarine struggling @ home & abroad @ present.

"They r a great side," Silva said. "They like 2 keep hold of the ball, they like 2 pass it around & they can also hit you on the break. We hv got 2 be careful & try 2 retain as much possession as we can & avoid being hit on the counter.''

Silva, whose outstanding personal form has helped City move 2 the top of the Premier League table, is likely 2 return to Mancini's starting line-up having been on the substitutes' bench against Aston Villa on Saturday, while Samir Nasri & Edin Dzeko will also move back in2 the 1st XI.

[joew2005]

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De Jong: We travel as No. 1
October 20, 2011

Nigel De Jong believes ManC need no longer head in2 the Manchester derby with an inferiority complex.

City r 2 points ahead of United @ the top of the Premier League table, dropping just 2 points so far tis term. De Jong is delighted 2 go in2 the match @ Old Trafford looking down on SAF's team, & is confident of taking the 3 points which will open up a 5-point gap.

De Jong told the Daily Mirror: "Of course every1 believes we can go there & win. We're going there as No. 1 & the aim is 2 stay No. 1. We r on top of the league so going in2 tat game we just hv 2 be confident & play our game as well as we hv been doing.

"The pressure is still the same as it was last year. But wat has changed is tat we r now No. 1 going in2 tis derby. We don't hv any point 2 prove. We've shown our quality throughout the season. We don't need a game against United 2 show how good we r.

"But it's 2 of the best teams in England going up against each other & I expect it 2 be a great game. Every1 was talking abt tat FA Cup semi-final but we proved we can win. Now we hv 2 go in2 tis game believing we can get the 3 points.

"Every game u win gives you something extra going in2 the next game. Tat's especially the case when you've got a game like tis 1 on Sunday. The belief has always been there 4 us. We're confident but United will be as well. They're @ home & it's a massive game 4 both of us."


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Nani banking on home record
October 20, 2011

Nani believes ManU can go in2 every home game expecting 2 win as they prepare 4 the Manchester derby @ Old Trafford on Sunday.

City will make the trip in top form, winning 7 of their 8 Premier League fixtures. Their only dropped points came @ Fulham, when they threw away a 2-goal lead 2 draw 2-2.

But Nani insists there is no reason 4 United 2 fear any1 on their turf.

"City hv a fantastic team @ the moment with fantastic players,'' said the Portugal winger. "They r playing alot of good stuff & it will be difficult 2 play against them.

"But we should not 4get; we r United. When we play @ home it is very hard 2 beat us. Tat is why we r so confident.

"With a record like ours, we should be confident every time we play @ home. We hv 2 believe we r going 2 win most of the games.

"City r 1 of the teams who hv been doing fantastically well since the season started. But there r alot of teams who r doing well & we need 2 be aware of them. Chelsea hv been excellent 4 a start.

"I just feel it is 2 early 2 say it is just going 2 be abt ManU & ManC 4 the title.

"These r the games tat always get the team motivated. When we play these games the team has a different attitude & a different hunger. Every1 likes 2 play in matches like tis 1 & clearly, we hope 2 win as well.''

United hv won 19 consecutive home games in the Premier League, with the win against Norwich breaking a century-old club.

The most consecutive home wins in English football history belongs 2 Bradford Park Avenue who won 25 games in a row betw 1926-27. 2 match tat United would need 2 beat City, Sunderland, Newcastle United, Wolves, Wigan Athletic & finally Blackburn on New Year's Eve.

[joew2005]

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Ferguson up for City 'challenge'
October 21, 2011

SAF says he is excited by the prospect of ManU's most important game of the season 2 date, a real ''6-pointer'' in the derby against City.

Ferguson has been impressed with the start his perceived main rivals 4 the Premier League title hv made &, despite a run tat has seen them win just twice @ Old Trafford in 37 years, knows tat City could find themselves 5 points clear @ the top of the table if they can beat his side.

"It is an exciting prospect," he said. "City hv done fantastically well & if they had not thrown a 2-goal lead away @ Fulham they would hv been top of the league with a 100% record.

"Tis game could be significant @ the end of the season. It is a 6-pointer. It will make a difference 2 whichever team wins it. But it is early doors & u can recover. There is no doubt abt tat. With our record in the 2nd half of the season, you hope tat we will be better."

Current champions United find themselves in the unusual position of being below their local rivals in the table, but Ferguson is relishing the challenge with the focus away fr London sides Arsenal & Chelsea tis season.

"We always accept a challenge @ tis club," he said. "We hv had tat time & time again. Tis is another situation. It is another game in the history of our club & we hv 2 do something abt it.

"You don't always 1 2 be behind clubs, like we were 4 a couple of years with Chelsea. But we showed we had the vigour & determination, & also the decision-making tat got us back in front of tat particular football club."

However, although the last few years hv brought a 7-goal thriller settled by Michael Owen in stoppage time, Wayne Rooney's last-gasp goal 2 seal a Carling Cup semi-final triumph & Yaya Toure's FA Cup semi-final matchwinner, in addition 2 Rooney's spectacular overhead kick in the corresponding fixture last term, Ferguson is not certain another sensational contest is on the horizon.

''There could be goals - but it could also be disappointing,'' accepted Ferguson. ''It is a major game. It is very seldom in major games tat you get alot of goals.''

[joew2005]

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Tevez decision delayed
October 21, 2011

ManC's unsettled striker Carlos Tevez has been charged with failing 2 warm-up against Bayern Munich @ a disciplinary hearing but a final decision over his punishment has been delayed by his club.

Tevez was called off the bench as City were 2-0 down against the Germans, but did not enter the field of play as manager Roberto Mancini attempted 2 shuffle his pack. Mancini later claimed tat the Argentine had refused 2 play & ''would never play 4 the club again'', although Tevez insisted that it had been a miscommunication.

As City launched an investigation in2 the incident, Tevez was suspended for 2 weeks on full pay, but faces a 4 to 6 week suspension & fines of around £1.5 million if found guilty of misconduct - action tat will be approved by the Professional Footballers' Association.

However, City hv decided 2 take their time over deciding wat 2 do with Tevez & a source told ESPNsoccernet: ''No decision will be made on Friday & there r 5 days in which a decision can be reached. Tat doesn't mean tat all 5 days will be used, but the club will be deliberating b4 coming 2 a verdict.''

Sources hv told ESPNsoccernet tat they do not believe the evidence can categorically prove tat Tevez refused 2 play, rather than refused 2 warm-up again, so the hearing has switched focus fr tat. But City insist tis is not a U-turn or the club backing down. Indeed it is not a softening of their approach as the club's ''collective revulsion'' of Tevez's actions remains in place, as it has done fr the start.

City stopped short of considering a gross misconduct charge which would hv given them the option of sacking the player & cancelling his £250,000-a-week contract - an option highly unlikely anyway as it would hv resulted in more legal action 4 compensation.

Tevez is expected 2 immediately appeal against any action & if he is unsuccessful in having his case heard by the club's board, will seek a hearing with the Premier League tat could linger on until the New Year, when City would be in a position 2 sell him with the transfer window open.

[joew2005]

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Hughes critical of 'autocratic' Mancini
October 22, 2011

Former ManC boss Mark Hughes has labelled current manager Roberto Mancini as "autocratic" & insists the saga involving Carlos Tevez "would never hv happened" during his tenure.

Hughes was axed by City in December 2009 following the arrival of new club owner Sheikh Mansour. Mancini was then appointed as his successor, & the former boss gave his frank assessment of the Italian ahead of Sunday's top-of-the-table Manchester derby.

"I don't know the guy personally but looking @ [Mancini] fr outside he comes across as autocratic," Hughes told the Daily Telegraph. "It's either his way or the highway.

"I'm not sure he indulges players; tries 2 get 2 know players or understands players, I'm not sure he's tat type of manager. He looks very focused & very driven in terms of wat he gets fr his players. But whether or not they will all love him when he leaves, I would think probably not.

"It's more difficult in the modern age & with modern footballers 2 be absolutely autocratic & not be flexible in terms of how it's going 2 be done & not understand tat your decisions can impact on players, becos they do."

Hughes evidently feels Mancini's dictatorial approach has extended 2ward Carlos Tevez, & has allowed the saga surrounding the striker's future 2 turn unnecessarily nasty.

"I never saw [Tevez] volatile," Hughes said. "I cannot think of an incident with Carlos. It would never hv happened under my watch."

City head into Sunday's clash with their rivals 2 points clear @ the top of the Premier League, but Hughes has warned tat domestic progress will not necessarily result in instant success on the continent.

"In Europe, in the Champions League, I don't think they can get 2 where they 1 2 be either tis season or even the next season becos I think u hv 2 build tat knowledge. But in terms of the Premier League I think it can happen more quickly.

"Whether or not the group as a whole work as diligently & with the same mantra tat ManU hv, I'd maybe suggest not.

"Every ManU player understands wat ManU is abt. The players understand it's a privilege 2 play 4 United. They show the club tat deference.

"I'm not sure the group of players @ City understand tat yet. At United there has been continuity with the manager, with the success they hv had; it gives them a different dynamic," Hughes said.

[joew2005]

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Redknapp still keen on Tevez
October 23, 2011

Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp says he would not hesitate 2 sign ManC's Carlos Tevez if the club r willing 2 part with the wantaway striker.

Tevez has repeatedly insisted he is keen 2 leave Manchester citing family reasons, & appears frozen out of City boss Roberto Mancini's plans due 2 his conduct on the substitute's bench during last month's Champions League defeat @ Bayern Munich.

With an investigation ongoing into his alleged misdemeanour, Tevez is unlikely 2 see any 1st-team action @ City in the foreseeable future, & Redknapp would not hesitate 2 bring the Argentinian 2 White Hart Lane on a loan deal.

"I would take him if he were available 4 sure, warts & all. Who wouldn't?" Redknapp is quoted as saying in the English press.

"If ManC 1 2 let me hv him on loan & massively subsidise it, I'll take him 2morrow. Say wat you like, but he's a world-class player & you can't say he doesn't work his socks off when he plays. When he gets on the field he's a right handful.

"It's all right people refusing 2 condone his behaviour but, 2 be honest, I'm only interested in wat he does when he plays. And world-class players r in short supply."

Meanwhile, City r preparing 2 take on rivals United in a top-of-the-table Manchester derby @ Old Trafford on Sunday.


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Toure looking to make history
October 22, 2011

Since the very beginning, footballers hv been taking it 1 game @ a time. Yaya Toure is the exception, however, ignoring the cliché & fixing his gaze on the distant future. The Ivorian is looking 2 tis lifetime & beyond. ManC is his legacy project.

"If we win the Premier League tis year, all the fans will go crazy abt it," he said. "You can make history & 4 the rest of your life or aft you die, ppl will continue 2 talk abt wat u did 4 the club. Tat's wat I 1."

During his 15 months in Manchester, Toure has ended City's 35-year trophy drought, his winner in May's FA Cup final finally reacquainting them with silverware. But 2011 is also notable 4 the passing of Mike Doyle & Neil Young, two stalwarts of the last sky blue side 2 be crowned England's best. They r remembered @ the Etihad Stadium, just as Toure hopes he will be.

The contrast is supplied by his former employers. @ Barcelona, the 28-year-old was another cog in the wheel - albeit 1 part of a particularly stylish & successful vehicle. @ City, he hopes he can be the catalyst 4 change, driving them 4wards.

"That's why I came 2 ManC," he added, "becos last year when we won the FA Cup, all the ppl around the club were happy. It is incredible. It's not like Barcelona: when they win the league, it is normal."

The cynical interpretation is tat signing 4 City is prompted more by avarice than ambition, especially with Toure reported 2 hv landed himself a £220,000-a-week deal. But 4 Yaya, the opportunity 2 play with brother Kolo was a factor &, he insists, others share his desire 2 make an indelible mark.

"The 1st time I met Samir Nasri or David Silva or Sergio Aguero they said 2 me, 'Yaya, we hv come here 2 make history' & we r excited 2 be part of tis history," he explained. "When u go 2 [Real] Madrid or Barcelona, u don't go there 2 make history becos they already hv it, but tis is special. In 2011, u hv a big chance 2 make history 4 1 club."

The aim, he says, is 2 build a dynasty. Tat requires stability & continuity. In tat respect, the rivals r the role model, with ManU, like Barcelona, the clubs Toure hopes 2 emulate. It is why he believes Roberto Mancini's contract, which expires in 2013, should be extended.

"I think it is important 2 hv stability becos he is doing a fantastic job," he said. "The way Barcelona play, they play like tat a long time. At ManC we try 2 find a way. Tat's why it's very important when your manager does well tat u hv 2 keep him 4 a long time, 2 let him make his mark on the club, becos the 1st team, the 2nd team, the 3rd team, they hv 2 all play the same way. That's the way [Sir Alex] Ferguson did it & tat's the way Barcelona did it. United with Ferguson is a great example, becos Ferguson makes tis club."

Making ManC, 2 borrow Toure's phrase, involves many aspects. High-profile & expensive recruitment is 1, but so is forging a team & developing a winning habit. It is why Tuesday's Champions League victory over Villarreal, when Aguero scored the decisive goal in the dying seconds of injury time, offered him so much encouragement. "We need tis kind of spirit & mentality," he said. "It was amazing.''

Another aspect is the added sense of adventure City hv displayed tis season. Solidity was prioritised in Mancini's 1st full year in charge but progress, along with the signings of Nasri & Aguero, has enabled them 2 play with greater flair. "I think now the club has more confidence & we play such fantastic attacking football tat everyone enjoys it," Toure added.

The artist, the man his manager believes is 1 of the world's finest footballers, is Silva & Toure concurs with Mancini's appraisal of the Spaniard. "If I m not wrong, Barcelona wanted 2 sign him [b4 he came 2 City]," he said. "I don't know why they didn't becos Silva is a fantastic player." Praise is swiftly followed by a message 2 his old club. "And I don't 1 him 2 leave 2 go 2 Barcelona. He has 2 stay with us becos he is an amazing player."

Indeed, Toure's compliments 4 his colleagues r a constant with some of the less heralded members of the City squad, such as James Milner, regularly invoked. They r the men Toure hopes will be his history-makers, delivering immortality in East Manchester. The 6' 3'' midfielder speaks fr a towering height, with his club top of the table.

"If we stay there, it will be fantastic," he said. "We need 2 win the Premier League & everything will come."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/st...r-city?cc=4716

Unhappy Tevez writes letter
October 22, 2011

Carlos Tevez's lawyers hv written a letter 2 ManC alleging the club hv "breached the player's human rights", ESPNsoccernet understands.

At a disciplinary hearing on Friday, Tevez was charged with failing 2 warm-up in September's 2-0 Champions League loss against Bayern Munich, although a final decision over his punishment has been delayed by City.

The player & his representatives r unhappy with his damaged reputation following his confrontation with manager Roberto Mancini, & hv tis week issued a letter 2 City.

City's decision over Tevez's future is unlikely 2 be swayed by the contents of the letter, which has been described as a "rant" by the club, as the side's hierarchy remain fully behind Mancini, who said post the defeat in Munich tat the 4ward would never play again under his stewardship.

The Argentina international was suspended for 2 weeks by the club in the aftermath of the alleged incident @ the Allianz Arena, & a further 6-week ban with a £1.5 million fine looks set 2 be announced on Monday, subject 2 approval fr the Professional Footballers' Association.

It is expected Tevez will appeal the punishment, &, should he fail, the attacker is prepared 2 take the case all the way 2 a Premier League hearing, potentially dragging out a conclusion until the end of the year.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/report?id=317936&cc=4716

City hammer ten-man United

Controversial striker Mario Balotelli provided the spark as ManC stormed Old Trafford 2 humiliate rivals ManU on Sunday afternoon.

Hours aft more headlines abt his off-field antics following a fire @ his home, Balotelli struck twice 2 set up a convincing win 4 the Premier League leaders over 10-man United.

Balotelli also won the free-kick which led 2 a straight red card 4 United defender Jonny Evans b4 Edin Dzeko struck twice & Sergio Aguero & David Silva added 2 the tally.

United claimed a consolation with a fine goal fr Darren Fletcher 10 mins fr time but they were ran ragged in the dying moments as City struck 3 times aft the 88th minute.

City's stunning victory not only lifted them 5 points clear of United & underlined their title credentials but shattered a host of statistics.

In recording only their 2nd win @ Old Trafford since 1974, City inflicted United's 1st home defeat since April 2010 & ended their run of 19 consecutive home league wins.

It left the watching Glazers, United's owners, hoping 4 better luck as they flew 2 Wembley by private helicopter 2 watch their other team, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, in the NFL tonight.

Balotelli had returned 2 the side aft suspension in midweek as 1 of 6 changes.

United showed similar rotation fr their Champions League win over Otelul Galati with fit-again defender Rio Ferdinand among those 2 come in while Phil Jones & Nemanja Vidic dropped out.

It was the hosts who made the early running with Ashley Young twice testing Micah Richards down the left, winning a free-kick & a corner.

United threatened again when Young bent in another free-kick but Balotelli was back 2 head clear.

Wayne Rooney went down in the box under a challenge fr Vincent Kompany but referee Mark Clattenburg saw nothing untoward.

Despite their quieter start, it was City who took the lead aft 22 mins thru Balotelli.

Silva fed Milner & the midfielder pulled the ball back 4 Balotelli 2 place a low, 1st-time shot beyond the reach of De Gea fr 18 yards, finding the right corner.

He marked the goal with self-deprecating humour by lifting his shirt 2 reveal a T-shirt saying, "Why Always Me?''.

United responded but Anderson & Rooney both shot straight @ Joe Hart.

United had another good chance when Rooney pulled the ball back fr a Young cross but Evans badly miskicked.

Kompany was booked 4 bringing down Danny Welbeck as United tried 2 launch another counter-attack but City held firm until the break.

United's problems then increased considerably as Evans was sent off within 2 mins of the restart 4 denying Balotelli a goalscoring opportunity.

Balotelli stayed on his feet until crossing the 18-yard line as Evans pulled back his arm but Clattenburg awarded a free-kick outside the area & then showed the defender the red card.

United survived the resulting set-piece & breathed again shortly afterwards when Clattenburg gave nothing aft Richards collided with Anderson & appealed 4 a penalty.

Another chance came as Balotelli picked out Aguero with a deep cross but the Argentinian failed 2 connect with a volley & Richards missed the target.

Young went close as United countered but his mishit 1st shot rebounded off Milner & he was rushed into guiding a 2nd attempt wide.

United applied more pressure with Rooney shooting @ Hart again but City made their numerical superiority count with a well-worked 2nd goal 4 Balotelli just b4 the hour.

Silva caught the home defence with a brilliant ball 4 Milner inside the area & Balotelli arrived unmarked 2 turn in his cross 4 a 6th goal in 5 games.

Chris Smalling then made a vital interception in front of goal as Balotelli threatened 2 grab a hat-trick.

City were in complete control & claimed a 3rd aft 69 mins as Milner played Richards in2 space on the right & he duly squared 4 Aguero 2 slide home fr 6 yards.

Roberto Mancini decided 2 take off Balotelli with 20 mins remaining & he left the field quietly 2 take the congratulations of his team-mates on the bench.

His replacement Dzeko almost scored a 4th City goal within moments of entering the field with a low shot which rolled just wide.

Dzeko had another chance as United were caught out again but De Gea produced a fine save.

United clawed 1 back as Fletcher curled in a fine effort fr long distance but City upped the tempo with 3 more in the closing minutes.

Joleon Lescott was free 2 cross @ the back post as a free-kick was flicked on & the ball rebounded in off Dzeko.

Silva then broke clear 2 slide the ball under De Gea b4 the Spaniard released Dzeko 2 complete the rout.

[lacoruna69]

You either hate him or love him......

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/st...-wages?cc=4716

Tevez fined four weeks' wages
October 25, 2011

ManC hv upheld a misconduct charge against Carlos Tevez & the striker is 2 be fined 4 weeks' wages.

City held an internal investigation in2 Tevez's actions aft manager Roberto Mancini accused him of refusing 2 enter the field as a substitute during the 2-0 defeat @ Bayern Munich @ the end of September.

Following a disciplinary hearing, Tevez was found guilty of 5 breaches of his contract & has been handed a fine, which must be ratified by the Professional Footballers' Association, as well as issued with a written warning as 2 his future conduct. He was also issued with a 2-week suspension, though tat is deemed 2 hv been served already.

The club listed the breaches of conduct as follows: "1. An obligation 2 participate in any matches in which the player is selected 2 play 4 the club when directed by a club official.

"2. An obligation 2 undertake such other duties & 2 participate in such other activities as r consistent with the performance of the player's duties & as r reasonably required of him.

"3. An obligation 2 comply with & act in accordance with all lawful instructions of any authorised official of the club.

"4. An obligation 2 observe the statutes & regulations of FIFA & UEFA, the FA Rules, the League Rules, the Code of Practice & the club rules, including but not limited 2 breach of Rule E3(1) of the FA Rules (obligation on the player all times 2 act in the best interests of the game & not act in any manner which is improper or which brings the game in2 disrepute).

"5. An obligation not 2 knowingly or recklessly do anything or omit 2 do anything which is likely 2 bring the club or the game of football in2 disrepute or cause the player or the club 2 be in breach of the Rules (as defined in the contract) or cause damage 2 the club."

Tevez has the right 2 appeal 2 the club's board within 14 days of the decision.



http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/st...ez-fee?cc=4716

Corinthians won't pay 'crazy' Tevez fee
October 25, 2011

Corinthians have warned ManC they will not pay a "crazy" fee 4 unsettled striker Carlos Tevez.

Tevez's former club Corinthians failed in a bid 2 land the Argentina international in the summer, but could renew their interest when the winter transfer window opens.

The forward's future @ the Etihad Stadium is the subject of conjecture aft he was accused of refusing 2 warm-up during City's 2-0 Champions League loss at Bayern Munich.

It is expected he will be sold in January, & Corinthians hv been mentioned as potential suitors. But the Brazilian club r wary of the Argentine disrupting the spirit in their dressing room.

The club's marketing vice-president, Luis Rosemberg is quoted by TalkSPORT as saying: "I do not know if the trainer 1s Tevez & wat he thinks abt the semi-crazy behaviour tat he has shown.

"I do not know if the coach 1s 2 disturb the harmony tat we hv got. If it was 4 a reasonable fee than yes, we would do it. But we cannot pay a crazy figure 2 sign him. The names do not matter [2 the coach], he 1s men."

[lacoruna69]

Is he the unsung hero on nullifying the Man U attack?