Spanish reports claim Real Madrid have decided to offer Manchester United a world-record £100million for Cristiano Ronaldo.

 

It is believed Real told United last summer they would pay up to 120million euros for the Portuguese star.

 

The Red Devils made it quite clear they had no plans to sell Ronaldo - but the wonderful form of player, which has seen him score nearly 40 goals this season, will prompt a new bid.

 

Real have made little secret of their desire to lure Ronaldo to the Spanish capital and now La Sexta is claiming that an incredible £100million bid is imminent.

 

La Sexta - who have the rights to La Liga television coverage in Spain, are said to have close ties with high-ranking Real officials, from where the news on the possible bid have emanated.

 

However, it is also being reported that despite the huge bid, Real are not expecting United to accept the deal.

 

The current world record for a footballer is already held by Real, after they £46million to Juventus for Zinedine Zidane in 2001.

 

Recent speculation intensified after it was reported in Spain that Real's sporting director Predrag Mijatovic met with Ronaldo's agent Jorge Mendes in London and Rome in recent weeks.

BARCELONA have vowed to make Cristiano Ronaldo pay for his first-leg spot-kick howler.

Manchester United wing star Ron missed early on at the Nou Camp.

And Barca boss Frank Rijkaard said: If we go through they will talk here about the missed penalty.

If we get to the final the pressure will be on Ronaldo.

I know that he will want to make up for that and do something good here but we are going to give everything to get into the final.

We need to impose our own style of play and be brave.

MANCHESTER UNITED stars were involved in a post-match bust-up with Chelsea
groundstaff at Stamford Bridge.

Patrice Evra, Paul Scholes, John O'Shea, Gerard Pique and Gary Neville were
taking part in a warm-down session on the pitch when they were asked to
move.

The row erupted when the players refused to come off the pitch and an
altercation broke out between Chelsea stewards, groundstaff and the United
players.

Chelsea had earlier beaten Manchester United 2-1 to go level on points at the
top of the Premier League.

Evra want step inna a bwoy face

Jin Sung Park about to show his karate skills

Like why is his tongue stickin out?

MANCHESTER UNITED will spend a staggering £90million in wages to keep four of their stars.

The club are splashing the cash on mega salaries for Cristiano Ronaldo, Rio Ferdinand, Wes Brown and Michael Carrick as the quartet tie up lucrative new deals.

Brown and Carrick have followed Ferdinand by agreeing contracts which means in the last week United have committed themselves to £52m in wages.

And Portuguese genius Ronaldo, 23, is ready to seal a five-year, £150,000-a-week deal in the summer, taking the total figure to £90m.

Carrick, 26, was only two years into a four-year deal. But United have tied down the midfielder until 2012 and his weekly pay is set to rise from £50,000 to £70,000 a week.

Defender Brown, 28, was poised to leave Old Trafford on a free with his contract up at the close of the campaign but talks this week have ended a season-long wrangle.

Brown was one of the lowest paid players on a basic £30,000 a week plus £10,000 for every game played. But he has clinched a four-year contract worth around £60,000 a week.

England ace Ferdinand, 29, has agreed a new deal worth £120,000 a week over four years.

ARSENE WENGER is set to report Inter Milan to FIFA after the Italians declared an interest in signing Alex Hleb.

Arsenal boss Wenger is furious with Inter coach Roberto Mancini for admitting that Hleb is on his summer hit-list.

The Belarus midfield man also held talks with Inter officals before Arsenals Champions League match against AC Milan in March.

Wenger said: If Inter are interested in Alex Hleb they should call us. We have heard nothing.

The way they proceed is absolutely disrespectful.

Mathieu Flamini is yet to sign his new deal but Wenger said: He wants to stay.

CHELSEA and Manchester United were at war last night over allegations that racism sparked the Battle of the Bridge.


And SunSport can reveal that Owen Hargreaves is one of EIGHT United players who now face FA disciplinary charges after he hurled a tirade of abuse in the tunnel at fourth official Mike Riley.


Chelsea reacted furiously yesterday when it was suggested Patrice Evra had been racially abused during the mass brawl that broke out as United warmed down on the pitch after Saturdays 2-1 defeat.


Chief executive Peter Kenyon instantly refuted the claim and even contacted senior United officials to see if they had evidence.


Chelsea also interviewed every member of their staff but found no proof of racist behaviour.


United agreed the claims were unfounded even Evra distanced himself from the allegation but the club is now facing severe punishment for the shameful events that blackened Saturdays 2-1 defeat.

Six United players were involved in a 24-man post-match brawl with Chelsea stewards and ground staff.

 

And Rio Ferdinand and Hargreaves were also guilty of abusing Chelsea staff and match officials in the tunnel in the immediate aftermath of the match.

 

CCTV footage of those incidents will be handed over to the FA today who confirmed that they have launched an inquiry into events at Stamford Bridge.

 

FA spokesman Andrin Cooper said: This will have nothing to do with the referees report. He would have been in his dressing room a long way from the incident.

 

But we will obviously be asking Chelsea to let us see their CCTV footage of the incident.

 

On Monday, Alex Ferguson confirmed United will file a report to the FA on the incident.

 

He said: We are very happy with that, we are delighted with that. We hope the FA investigate it.

 

United players involved in the fracas face fines and possible bans for bringing the game into disrepute.

 

The club could also be fined for failing to control its players.

 

With the title race now finely balanced, though, the row between the two leading clubs has spilled over into an ugly row.

 

Eye-witness reports of the incident claim that Evra completely lost it during the confrontation with groundsmen at the stadium.

 

The whole matter is extremely embarra**ing for the reigning champions as they chase a second consecutive title and the Champions League.

BARCELONA have told Chelsea and Manchester City to cough up £31million for Ronaldinho.

The Brazil ace looks certain to leave Spanish giants in the summer and will head to either England or Italy.

But Barca insist they will not let Ronaldinho leave on the cheap.

Club president Joan Laporta said: "I only say that Ronaldinho is worth more than £31million."

Laporta also claimed Ronaldinho could stay on at the Nou Camp, despite Barca boss Frank Rijkaard saying he expects the frontman to leave.

Laporta added: "He has never created the slightest problem and I'm sure he will return to how he was before as soon as he is well.

"He just needs to find new motivation but it's no foregone conclusion that he has to leave because he can find this with us, given that his contract runs until 2010."

Lapoerta also backed underfire Thierry Henry to shine for the Catalan club.

He said: "I'm convinced that he'll give us the European Cup, in part because he knows the English teams better than the other players."

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AC Milan striker Ronaldo was questioned by police after an altercation with transvestites in a Rio de Janeiro motel on Monday, authorities said. Ronaldo accused one of the transvestites of trying to extort him, police inspector Carlos Augusto Nogueira said.

Police were still investigating what happened, but Nogueira said the altercation began when Ronaldo found out he was dealing with transvestites instead of women. The inspector said Ronaldo admitted he knew they were prostitutes when they met on Sunday night, but did not realize they were transvestites until they got to the motel.

"He admitted to everything, he wanted to have fun," Nogueira said. "But he committed no crime at all, it was immoral at best."

Prostitution was not illegal in Brazil.

The striker told police he offered to pay the transvestites anyway, but before he left one of them allegedly asked for 50,000 reals (US$30,000; 19,000) to hide the story from the media.

Nogueira said he believed Ronaldo's version because the transvestite decided to leave the police station even before being fully questioned by authorities.

The transvestite also accused Ronaldo of asking him to buy drugs.

In a statement to TV Globo, Ronaldo reiterated he was a victim of extortion and denied he has ever used drugs.

Ronaldo and the transvestites were only interviewed by police and voluntarily went to the police station.

Ronaldo is in Rio de Janeiro recovering from left knee surgery. He said on Sunday he could be back in action in six months if his recovery continues to go as planned.

Ronaldo has won two World Cups with Brazil, including the in 2002 when he scored eight goals, including two in the final against Germany.

A message to Ronaldo's spokesman was not immediately answered on Monday.

FRANK LAMPARD could make an emotional return against Liverpool on Wednesday.

The Chelsea midfielder has been given compassionate leave following the death of mum Pat from pneumonia last week.

Lamps missed Saturdays 2-1 win over Manchester United but trained on his own on Sunday before joining in with the rest of the squad yesterday.

Blues boss Avram Grant has left the decision to play in the Champions League semi-final second leg up to the England star.

Lamps fitness will be assessed in the final training session today before the Liverpool match at Stamford Bridge.

His return will allow Grant to move Michael Essien to right-back with Claude Makelele and Michael Ballack completing the midfield three.

Chelsea have the advantage of an away goal from the 1-1 draw in the first leg.

Keeper Petr Cech relived the moment John Arne Riises injury-time own goal silenced the raucous home support in the first leg.

Cech is aware a clean sheet against Liverpool will ensure the Blues contest the final in Moscow on May 21.

He said: At Anfield the whole stadium was rocking.

They were buzzing, singing and then, all of a sudden, silence.

If someone had dropped their keys, youd have heard them hit the floor.

It was a bonus because 1-0 away is not one of the best results you can get.

But 1-1 is a good result, even though you dont win. You know if you keep a clean sheet at home then you are through.

SVEN GORAN ERIKSSON will be axed as Manchester City boss at the end of the season after an explosive bust-up with owner Thaksin Shinawatra.

Eriksson met Shinawatra on Sunday and left knowing he was facing the boot.

The shocked Swede called a meeting of all his staff at the Carrington Training Complex yesterday to drop the b****shell.

A City insider said: It was a very unpleasant meeting between Sven and the owner. Shinawatra wants control of everything and that is not the way that Eriksson works.

In an amazing show of fury, the normally mild-mannered former England boss tore into Shinawatra for publicly criticising the team's performance and his own abilities.

Eriksson told the owner his comments were disgraceful and argued if he had anything to say he should do so in private.

But Shinawatra has become so power-crazy at City he wants the final word on everyone who comes in or out and even wants to pick the team.

Eriksson has it in his contract that decisions on which players to buy are his call.

Shinawatra, though, is determined to change that and as Eriksson will not comply he will find a manager who will.

Eriksson signed a three-year deal worth £2.5million a year when he joined City last July.

And he will only go when Shinawatra fires him with a multi- million pound compensation package.

The Eastlands insider added: Sven was very angry about being attacked in public and let his feelings be known. Sven doesnt lose his cool very often and was really upset.

Shinawatra expects the manager to do what he says no questions asked and if he decides a player should be in the team the boss should accept it.

But Sven wont agree with that. How many top managers would?

Former Thai Prime Minister Shinawatra wants a big name from abroad to take Erikssons place but that will not go down well with the fans.

City have had their best season for years, are guaranteed a top-half finish and did the double over rivals Manchester United.

Eriksson told his shocked City stars that he is going to be sacked in the summer.

He revealed he will be chopped after their last two league games.

A number of senior players stood up to pledge their support for Eriksson.

One eyewitness said: Everyone was totally shocked. The players have all taken to Sven and enjoy his methods.

It seems ridiculous after what has been an excellent season.

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CRISTIANO RONALDO celebrated with his latest flame after Man Utd beat Arsenal on Sunday.

For WAYNE ROONEYs benefit, NEREIDA GALLARDO is her name, not his new car.

The Portuguese has been seeing the Spanish beauty since January and she's clearly not having a negative effect on his form.

Though the model might need to give him some fashion tips, as I'm not sure if those bowling shoes would go down too well on a Madrid catwalk.

Teammates RIO FERDINAND, WES BROWN, JOHN OSHEA and PATRICE EVRA spent £10,000 on champagne at nightspot 161 in Hale after their win.

Imagine the bill if they win the Premier League.

-- Edited by postinor at 18:03, 2008-04-26

MICHAEL BALLACK landed a stunning blow on Manchester United's title dream.

The Chelsea star grabbed both goals to fire his side right back into the championship race.

The Blues are now level pegging with United, ensuring the title tussle will go down to the very last day of the season.

Chelsea started well with Michael Essien forcing a diving save from Edwin van der Sar.

United were then rocked with the early removal of Nemanja Vidic, who was taken off on a stretcher with a nasty facial injury sustained by an accidental clash with Didier Drogbas knee.

Chelsea should have taken the lead in the 20th minute when Joe Cole got clear of the United defence.

After initially losing the ball, the forward lashed the ball against the bar when it rebounded to him inside the area.

Soon afterwards, Cole shot just wide from the angle of the six-yard box when fed the ball by Essien.

Chelsea thought they should have been awarded a spot-kick in the 34th minute when Drogba went down under a robust challenge from Mikael Silvestre.

But referee Alan Wiley waved away Chelseas appeals, while Uniteds bench accused the striker of diving.

The opening half looked set to end goalless when Ballack grabbed the opener by heading home from Didier Drogbas cross.

Chelsea needed to stay strong after the interval but a monumental blunder by Ricardo Carvalho in the 57th minute gifted United an equaliser.

The Portuguese defender passed the ball straight to the on running Rooney, who burst forward to emphatically slot past Petr Cech.

Chelsea piled forward in a desperate search for a winner and Drogba went close with a free-kick.

United held firm until Michael Carrick was adjudged to have handled in the box on 86 minutes and Ballack confidently stroked home the penalty.

Stamford Bridge endured a nerve-wracking final few minutes but exploded with joy at the final whistle.

ARSENAL fans on are at loggerheads over the contract conundrum surrounding Mathieu Flamini.

The midfield maestro has been a pivotal figure for the Gunners this season alongside Cesc Fabregas.

His breathtaking performance against AC Milan in the Champions League was duly noted as one of the most impressive displays of the season.

Sadly, Flamini has gone from a San Hero to San Zero with fans, after rejecting a lucrative contract offered by the Arsenal board.

The Frenchman has since been linked with a move to Turin giants Juventus.

Fans are fed up of Flamini's fat cat demands: "It's his choice but not many players who leave Arsenal go onto become better ones.

"I'm resigned to the fact he along with Hleb are going."

They also commented: "I'd hate to lose him, but he needs to be a top Gun for more than one season before he can command top cash."

Some see a bright future for the French ace: "Not only does he deserve that money, he should be made captain next season!"

Flamini's pay demands have Yanked the chain of Arsenal: "If he is greedy and wants to make 60-100k, he should be sold."

Tired of yet another Arsenal exodus: "I'm sick to the stomach of rival fans saying that we can't keep hold of our best players.

"All players come and go, but sometimes I feel we could do better with keeping our best performers."

 

DISTRAUGHT Frank Lampard dashed away from a vital match last night after hearing his mother was seriously ill.

Lampard, 29, had been warming up for Chelseas game against Wigan when he was told the news about his beloved mum Pat.

The ashen-faced midfield ace, dressed in a white Chelsea polo shirt and blue tracksuit bottoms with a white training top tied around his waist, sprinted down the touchline, past some fans in their seats and out of the ground to his car.

After driving to the hospital he joined other distraught family members were at the bedside of 58-year-old Pat as she fought pneumonia.

Doctors were keeping her under observation. It was not known whether her condition was life-threatening. Lampards agent Steve Kutner said last night: It is a family matter. There is an illness in the family and thats it.

Last night sources close to the footballer told The Sun that Pat was gravely ill.

Sensitive

Lampard, who followed his father Frank Snr to West Ham before joining Chelsea, has often told of his closeness to his mum.

He once said: Im very close to Mum a real mummys boy.

Were very similar. Quite sensitive, quite shy. Whereas Dads been the big influence on my career, Mums been the one who shaped me as a person how to treat people, manners, that kind of thing.

Shes brilliant and was always there for me and my two sisters, whatever we wanted to do.

Weve only ever had one argument and that was over something stupid when I was 13. I always say I may look like my dad apart from his beard but my character comes from Mum.

Last night Chelsea, without Lampard, conceded a last-minute equaliser to draw 1-1.

The surprise result against Wigan, a team fighting relegation, put a massive dent in second-placed Chelseas hopes of catching Premier League leaders Manchester United.

Lampard who has won 60 England caps, scoring 14 goals has been a driving force behind Chelseas success since joining them in 2001, helping them to win two Premier League titles. He has scored more than 100 goals for the club from midfield, including 20 this season.

AVRAM GRANT will hit Tal Ben Haim with an £80,000 fine for his amazing outburst in a UK newspaper.

As open warfare broke out at Chelsea, furious Blues chief Grant also accused his fellow Israeli of lying over claims ex-boss Jose Mourinho promised the defender a regular first-team role at Stamford Bridge.

Grant said: It is internal business but, in my opinion, if a player was wrong we need to deal with it in our way, my way.

Centre-back Ben Haim, 26, took aim at Grant after the 1-1 home draw with Wigan on Monday night virtually ended Chelseas hopes of lifting the Premier League title.

He insisted he would never have moved from Bolton last summer if he had known Grant would replace the Special One Mourinho.

Ben Haim was fined two weeks wages for his outburst.

As for his claim he would have been a first pick under Mourinho, Grant said: I dont think Jose promised Ben Haim he will play before John Terry, Carvalho and Alex.

The explosive row is the last thing Grant needs ahead of the clubs must-win match at Everton tonight.

Midfield star Frank Lampard is likely to be missing again due to his mum Pats illness.

Grant said: Football is very important but sometimes other things are more important. I understand it.

TOO many talented players fail to fulfil their potential.

Particularly nowadays where the trappings of the game can take away the edge.

Few go beyond what you thought they were going to be. Rio Ferdinand has.

When he missed that drugs test and was banned for eight months things could have gone one way or the other.

The Manchester United fans were understandably furious.

For a time, manager Alex Ferguson also looked to have shelved plans to mould him into the club captain.

When Roy Keane left, Gary Neville leaped ahead of Ferdinand to take the skippers armband.

But Ferdinands fightback from that low has been colossal. He has grown into a figure of great stature for club AND country.

In the absence of the injured Neville, and when Ryan Giggs does not play, Ferdinand has led the team this season.

He has led them by example, too, not least in the Nou Camp on Wednesday when he was immense.

Now Ferguson and Fabio Capello look set to recognise his leadership qualities with captaincy of club and country permanently.

Neville is struggling to recover from injury and become a regular again while Giggs games will be fewer next season.

It is time to hand the band on to a man who really is the leader of the new generation at United.

Someone who has matured greatly as a player and person.

Someone who is popular in the dressing room and can drag those winning performances out of the team.

It seemed when he was first compared to Sir Bobby Moore at West Ham it went to his head a bit. Now actions have made that similarity ring true.

Its credit to him that he has reached this point and now I can see him thriving on an extra weight of responsibility.

JOHN ARNE RIISE and Pepe Reina want a Brums rush today for very different reasons.

Full-back Riise has begged boss Rafa Benitez to plunge him straight back into action after Tuesdays heartbreaking own-goal gifted Chelsea a Champions League draw at Anfield.

And Liverpool keeper Reina is praying Rafa gives him the chance to keep up his ever-present Premier League record this term.

Benitez has decided the best way for Norwegian Riise, 27, to bury the bad memories is to throw him in from the start at relegation-battling Birmingham this afternoon.

Rafa said: Its best he comes straight back. If you want to change things you need to be on the pitch.

You cannot change anything by talking and he is desperate to play. The main thing with Riise is that he scores at Chelsea in the right goal!

Fabio Aurelios torn stomach muscle means Riise could well start in Wednesdays semi-final second leg at the Bridge.

One man sure to start at Chelsea is Reina. And that has left the Spaniard fearing he could be rested today in favour of back-up Charles Itandje.

Reina, 25, is the only Anfield star to play every minute of every Premier League game this term.

He said: I know the boss will make changes at Birmingham but I can rest in the summer.

Chelsea cannot afford to field less than a full-strength side today against Manchester United. Rafa added: I hope playing United has an effect on them.

THE Premier League is regarded as the best on the planet.

But while England hosts the worlds greatest football, there is a distinct lack of homegrown managers.

Just nine of the 20 top-flight sides are bossed by Englishmen and that number is threatening to plunge even further.

 

No10: Roy Hodgson
Veteran Hodgson is facing the toughest test of his career as he attempts to keep Fulham in the Premier League. Yet, the ex-Blackburn boss is admired throughout Europe for his work with the Finland and Switzerland national teams, as well as his stint with Italian giants Inter Milan.

 

No9: Sam Allardyce
Big Sam will be hungry for a return to football this summer after his ill-fated spell as Newcastle boss. Allardyce was fighting a losing battle at St James Park but his sterling work with Bolton should not be overshadowed. His years of over-achievement at the Reebok are now even more obvious given the clubs battle to avoid relegation.

 

No8: Stuart Baxter
Stuart who? Baxter is the current boss of the Finland national team after a successful career spent outside these shores apart from stint coaching the England Under-19s. One of Baxters greatest achievements is taking Swedish minnows AIK to the group stages of the Champions League.

 

 

 

No7: Steve McClaren
McClaren is hardly the most popular boss in England but it is unlikely he will be out of the game for much longer. It is often forgotten why the FA employed him in the first place his impressive achievements at Middlesbrough included taking the unglamorous Teesside outfit to the UEFA Cup final and victory in the 2004 Carling Cup final.

 

No6: Kevin Keegan
The Messiah has yet to weave his magic at Newcastle but the good times are threatening to return. Keegans tactical approach is questionable to say the least but his all-out attacking style is refreshing. And if one man knows what is required to lift Newcastle out of the doldrums, it is King Kev.

 

No5: Steve Bruce
After spending the first few years of his managerial career leaping between lower league clubs, Bruce has established himself as a Premier League boss. Following Birminghams return to the top flight last year, Bruce was forced out at St Andrews before working wonders with Wigan in their bid to avoid the drop.

 

No4: Alan Curbishley
The true test of Curbishley will come next season presuming West Ham finally put their injury nightmares behind them. After years preserving Charltons top-flight status on a shoestring budget, Curbs is now enjoying splashing the Hammers cash. His work in saving them from the drop last season must not be underestimated but can he battle with the big boys?

 

No3: Stuart Pearce
Is Psycho being primed as the next England boss? Fabio Capello was impressed enough to welcome Pearce as the only English coach in the new national team set-up. His work with the Under-21s has caught the eye after taking Manchester City to the verge of Europe.

 

No2: Steve Coppell
Coppell blew his chance to become a big name when he walked out of Manchester City in the mid-90s almost as soon as arriving. Yet, his success with Reading has reminded everyone of his managerial talents. Not many bosses could keep the unfashionable Royals in the Premier League while barely spending a penny.

 

No1: Harry Redknapp
Redknapp would have topped this list even without his upcoming Wembley date for the FA Cup final. The loveable East Ender has transformed Portsmouth from top-flight wannabes to European dreamers. And his ability to attract top-class stars such as Jermain Defoe and Lassana Diarra to Fratton Park tells you how highly the players regard him.

 

CAUTIOUS efficiency or carefree fluency? It should be a no-brainer for Alan Shearer.

The former England captain made his reputation as a prolific goalscorer and all-round champion of attacking football.

So it is only natural to assume he would be backing Manchester United in this afternoons Premier League decider at Chelsea.

Yet Shearer, who pocketed just one title winners medal during all his years in the game, insists beautiful football counts for nothing without a trophy to show for it.

He insisted: United and Chelsea have two very different styles and there is no right or wrong way. The best team will be the one which wins the League.

Chelsea can grind out results without being as attractive as United but, if they win a trophy in the next few weeks, they will still have had an incredible season.

The first job of any team is to win

It makes me laugh when people say they want entertaining football first and then winning football. The first job for any team is always to win.Manchester United have always relied on individual flair players to achieve their targets and well see who Chelsea sign in the summer before we know if theyre going down that route.

When youve spent as much money as Roman Abramovich has, you have the right to do anything you want.

Hell call the shots and hell decide whether Chelsea have a new manager, new players or a new ground.

But he will want to get something back for all that money.

It was always going to be tough for Avram Grant to follow Jose Mourinho because they really are like chalk and cheese as characters.

Avram is quite reserved and doesnt give a lot away.

But I think hes done a good job and all those people criticising him could end up with egg on their faces.

I dont think theyll win the title this season but they could easily win the Champions League next month. And thats the one Mourinho desperately wanted above everything.

Yet Shearer believes United have the momentum going into todays game and cannot see them slipping up now.

He added: Chelsea have to win, its as simple as that. They cant afford to rest anyone because even a draw would effectively hand United the title.

In fact, United could even afford to lose at Stamford Bridge because they are more than capable of beating West Ham at home and Wigan away in their last two games and finishing top on goal difference. But Alex Ferguson wont want to leave it that late. Hell want the title wrapped up against Chelsea so he can concentrate on the Champions League.

Shearer is convinced todays game will not be the last time these teams meet this season and believes they are destined to renew hostilities in next months Champions League final in Moscow.

The former Newcastle hero said: The timing of this game right in the middle of two huge European semi-finals is just incredible. I have to fancy United in a one-off game against Barcelona back at Old Trafford and, if I was a betting man, Id also back Chelsea to beat Liverpool in their second leg.

Not many teams have been able to keep Uniteds attackers quiet for 90 minutes.

Barcelona managed it the other night but I dont think theyll do it again in front of Uniteds fans on Tuesday.

Some of Uniteds attacking football has been brilliant to watch.

But people shouldnt overlook the contribution of Uniteds defence. Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic have been exceptional this season.

STEPHEN HUNT has told of the secret inspiration behind Readings top-flight survival bid the Super Mario Bros.

The midfielder says the struggling Royals take out their frustrations on Nintendos famous Mario Kart game to avoid coming to blows over their relegation woes.

And he hopes the make-believe plumbing duo can help Reading edge a step closer to victory in the race to beat the drop at Wigan today.

Ireland star Hunt, 26, said: The banter has been flying and if all else fails we will have Mario Kart on the journey up to Wigan.

There are always rows when that happens but it takes our minds off the relegation battle.

The next three games are massive but this game really is make or break. A point will do us and we are looking to go to Wigan and put in a good performance.

Boss Steve Coppell has challenged Leroy Lita to prove he has shaken off his bad-boy image by firing Reading to safety.

Lita, 23, goes in search of his first Premier League goal in 15 months after being recalled from his loan spell at Charlton.

Team mentality

Coppell shipped out the England Under-21 striker, 23, after losing patience following a string of off-field problems, including two nightclub fights.

And the gaffer said: Leroy has been recalled because the other strikers I have here have not been scoring goals.

He is a different trainer to the one who went away on loan. There is a visible change in his mentality.

I have been speaking regularly to Alan Pardew and the reports Ive had on Leroy have been positive. The past is the past. He has got the bit between his teeth. He will play at Wigan and all that matters now is that Reading FC are in the Premier League next season.

Wigan boss Steve Bruce had to call a halt to the Latics training session ahead of todays clash to prevent his fired-up players injuring themselves.

Bruce stepped in several times to cool things down as the tackles flew in and he eventually decided enough was enough.

Victory at the JJB today would guarantee Wigans own survival. And Bruce said it was obvious how high the stakes were, as his players went at each other on the training pitch.

He said: The players dont have to be told how much this match means. They know. There was a real crackle about them in training this week and the only thing I had to remind them about was to take it easy with each other

The emotion was there for everybody to see. They were firing into each other so much so I had to call a halt to it a bit early.

You can always tell when there is a big game around the corner. Training becomes that little bit more competitive, just as you would want it. They get the studs in and the rest of it.

But you cant let it go too far, which is why I sent them for an early shower!

Wigan are almost safe, thanks to a six-match unbeaten home run that has seen them pick up 14 priceless points.

Bruce added: Weve given ourselves a great chance and to be in this position is great.

Now we need one final push. Our home form has been terrific of late. Lets hope we can take it into this game and put it to bed. If we can do that with a couple of games to go, it will be fantastic.

JAMES McFADDEN admits he has been too embarra**ed to meet Birmingham fans this week.

The relegation-threatened Blues were thumped 5-1 by Second City rivals Aston Villa last Sunday.

McFadden, 25, confessed: I havent become a recluse but Ive kept my head down when Ive been out and hoped I wouldnt bump into anyone.

Ive tried not to see any fans because they dont want to see me swanning around.

Id also be a bit embarra**ed to see the fans because I know how they feel. They are going to have their noses rubbed in it until the next time we play Villa.

ASTON VILLA owner Randy Lerner is backing Martin ONeills bid to dish out new long-term contracts to the clubs big guns.

Villa boss ONeill wants to keep skipper Gareth Barry, who is a £12million target for Liverpool.

And he also wants to tie down Ashley Young, Gabby Agbonlahor and John Carew on lengthy new deals.

It will mean smashing the clubs current wage structure.

Barry, on £50,000 a week, is the highest earner at Villa Park but could double his basic pay at Anfield.

But American chairman Lerner met ONeill this week to discuss strategy. And the Ulsterman revealed: Randy is well versed in these things and it did not take a long conversation to find he shares my ambition to keep Gareth.

We want to build a side here but it should not surprise me now that players are being mentioned with the big four.

If its not Gareth this week it will be Ashley next week and Gabby the week after. Maybe John Carew.

I will give everything in the summer every consideration. We would naturally address the size of the squad. But I want to start from the position of the players who have done fantastically well here and Gareth Barry is one of them. There are others who I want to keep at the club who I believe should have extended contracts.

But it is a fact that top-quality players want top-quality football and that means the Champions League. Thats what we have to aim to get to.

Villa can leapfrog Everton and move into fifth place which offers the only definite UEFA Cup slot.

ONeill takes his team to Merseyside tomorrow on the back of three successive wins and 15 goals.

And he added: It has become a very important game.

I wouldnt want to play down the significance of it.

When you look at it there is only the one league position up for grabs for Europe and we have put ourselves back in contention.

That is all we could hope for.

We are not going to go up there and be cagey.

who will win this big clash up

MARK HUGHES hopes Benni McCarthys new Blackburn contract will help warn top clubs off David Bentley.

The striker was a target last summer but stayed put and has been rewarded with a new three-year deal worth around £40,000 a week.

This close season it is likely to be England ace Bentley who attracts interest from Chelsea and Liverpool.

But Hughes said: If we feel that letting a player go weakens us, we dont let them go.

Benni was a case in point and we wanted him to stay.

This year we dont have to sell David Bentley. We arent looking to sell him and thats it.

LOS ANGELES (AP) - The Denver Nuggets were right on the Los Angeles Lakers' heels when Kobe Bryant suddenly got hot. Oh, did he get hot. Bryant scored 19 points in a span of 4:19 of the fourth quarter Wednesday night, and the Lakers beat the Nuggets 122-107 to take a 2-0 lead in their first-round playoff series. Games 3 and 4 will be in Denver on Saturday and Monday night. Bryant finished with 49 points and 10 assists - one shy of his career playoff high in both categories. "Tonight, the way he was going, we probably could have put 10 people on the court and probably wouldn't have been able to stop him," said Nuggets star Allen Iverson, who wasn't bad himself, getting 31 points and six assists. "I didn't realize it," Bryant said when told about his scoring spree. "You just get into one of those rhythms. My teammates were looking for me, it just feels like the ball finds you." The Lakers led 89-79 entering the fourth quarter. The Nuggets drew within five points three times before a three-point play by Bryant with 6:41 remaining made it 101-93. That was only the beginning. Two free throws by Bryant in a span of two seconds after technical fouls against Smith and Iverson made it 105-94 with 5:37 left, and Bryant added a 3-pointer 18 seconds later to extend the Los Angeles lead to 14. Game over. "The 3-ball he made was the big play," Nuggets coach George Karl said. "I thought that kind of ended the game from the standpoint of our spirit. In a lot of ways, a great player ran us out of gas. The majority of his jump shots that he made tonight are somewhat undefendable." Bryant kept it going before his hot spell ended with 2:22 left when he made a three-point play, giving the Lakers a 120-101 lead. He came out for good 20 seconds later to a loud ovation and chants of "MVP, MVP" from the capacity crowd of 18,997 at Staples Center. Bryant was replaced by Coby Karl, the son of the Denver coach. It was the first time in NBA playoff history that a father has coached against his son. There was some trash talking between Bryant and Kenyon Martin, Denver's 6-foot-9 forward who had the assignment of guarding the Lakers' star in the first two games. "He's one of those players that you don't really want to make mad," teammate Lamar Odom said. "He can make shots from anywhere with people on him. I was surprised (Martin was talking at him). You never want to wake a sleeping giant. He can hit shots on anybody, on a number of defenders anywhere on the floor. "Talking to him is a surprise to me, but guys are competitors too, so sometimes you get caught up in it. Kobe was definitely coming out to prove a point." Bryant shot just 9-for-26 in scoring 32 points in Game 1. He went 18-for-27 in Game 2. Pau Gasol added 18 points and 10 rebounds and Luke Walton scored 18 points for the Lakers. Odom, hampered by foul trouble throughout the second half, was held to four points, four rebounds and six assists, but in the end it didn't matter. Carmelo Anthony added 23 points, J.R. Smith had a career playoff high 21 and Marcus Camby had 17 rebounds and four blocked shots for Denver. Martin, who fouled out with 5:47 remaining, scored 10 points. Anthony scored seven straight points to trigger an 11-0 run, giving Denver a 68-67 lead midway through the third quarter. With Odom on the bench with four fouls, Los Angeles appeared to be in some trouble. But Walton scored 10 points during a 22-11 spurt to finish the quarter and give the Lakers a 10-point lead. Bryant had four assists during the run. Linas Kleiza made just his 14th start of the season in place of Anthony Carter, giving Denver more firepower and additional size. The move paid off early as Kleiza and Anthony both scored six points to help the Nuggets take a 20-14 lead. Then Bryant went to work, scoring 16 of his 20 first-quarter points in the final 4 1/2 minutes of the period as the Lakers outscored the Nuggets 19-12 for a 33-32 lead. Bryant shot 8-for-10 in the period, compared to his 9-for-26 effort in Game 1, when he scored 18 of his 32 points in the final 8 1/2 minutes of the Lakers' 128-114 victory. The Lakers outscored Denver 14-4 to start the second quarter for a 47-36 lead. Bryant had 25 points in the first half, which ended with Los Angeles on top 59-49. Gasol, who had 36 points, 16 rebounds and eight assists in Game 1, had just four points, four rebounds and no assists at the midway point of this game. Notes Bryant's 20 first-quarter points were two shy of the Lakers' playoff record. Elgin Baylor scored 22 in a quarter on March 15, 1961, against Detroit. ... Backup forward/center Ronny Turiaf stayed home because on tonsillitis. Lakers spokesman John Black said the team expects Turiaf to make the trip to Denver on Friday. Turiaf, who has been sick for several days and played only three minutes in Game 1, averaged 6.6 points and 3.9 rebounds in 78 games during the regular season. ... Karl took Turiaf's place on the active roster. Father and son are very close. "I saw him last night, I think he wore every piece of Lakers gear he owns," the elder Karl said. ... Denver's Nene returned had two points and one rebound in seven first-half minutes. He missed seven games because of a strained right groin.

TOTTENHAM have pulled off a sensational transfer coup by landing Croatia superstar Luka Modric after reaching a deal believed to be over £20million with Dinamo Zagreb.

 

It was exclusively revealed Spurs had won the race to sign Modric and beaten competition from some of Europes biggest clubs.

We were first to break the news at twenty past midnight this morning an HOUR before the White Hart Lane giants confirmed the story on their official website.

A Spurs statement read: The Club is delighted to announce that it has reached agreement with Dinamo Zagreb for the transfer of Croatian midfielder, Luka Modric.

"Personal terms have been agreed with the player and he will now undertake a medical and apply for a work permit.

Modric admits he is delighted to be making the switch to London.

He said: "I'm happy to be joining such a big club.

"It will be a real pleasure to play in the English league which is the best in Europe, with three English clubs in the semi-finals of the Champions League."

Dinamo sporting director Zoran Mamic revealed: "Tottenham's president came to Zagreb.

"We signed the agreement and everything is in order. We're very happy.

"Luka is leaving for an environment where he's going to progress, while Dinamo showed that we know how to do good deals."

A top Dinamo source told us late last night: Everything has been agreed and Modric will be going to Tottenham. All the details are in place and the fee is £20m.

Modric will sign a five-year contract with Tottenham. The deal is believed to be a club record fee for Spurs whose previous record was the £16.5m signing of Darren Bent from Charlton last summer.

Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City were all linked with moves for Modric as were Barcelona, Inter and Bayern Munich.

And Newcastle boss Kevin Keegan had an £18.5million bid rejected by the Croatian club yesterday afternoon before Spurs upped the ante to land the star.

It is a masterstroke for Tottenham boss Juande Ramos, who has landed a truly wonderful player who is expected to shine for Croatia in Euro 2008.

RIO FERDINAND is set to become captain for club and country.

Alex Ferguson says it is his destiny to be Manchester United skipper. And Fabio Capello will hand Rio, 29, the armband before Englands World Cup qualifiers kick off in September.

Fergie said: Rio has been captain with Gary Neville injured and Ryan Giggs unavailable.

"And obviously as Ryan gets older Rio is the natural successor that is his destiny.

His experience has added to his many abilities. He is one of the most natural footballers in England.

For a defender, he is so quick and mobile and technically gifted.

His performance in Barcelona was absolutely superb. He and Wes Brown were fantastic.

Ferdinand could get the captaincy for keeps next season with Neville, 33, unlikely to be a first-team regular after a year out injured.

Giggs, 34, is also likely to play fewer games next season.

Ferdinand hugely impressed Capello when he led England for the first time in last months friendly against France.

The defender said: Being captain for England was great likewise being skipper at Manchester United is fantastic.

Whenever I pull on that armband it is a proud moment for me and my family because of the long line of illustrious people who have worn it before me.

Capello will name his captain in time for Englands August 20 friendly with the Czech Republic.

But the Italian said: I will choose based on attitude on the pitch and behaviour off the field as well.

A captain must be a leader. He must lead by example and drag the team forward.

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Here are the NBA Playoff Matchups. The NBA Playoffs kick off April 19th.

Eastern Conference
1) Boston Celtics vs. 8) Atlanta Hawks
2) Detroit Pistons vs. 7) Philadelphia 76ers
3) Orlando Magic vs. 6) Toronto Raptors
4) Cleveland Cavaliers vs. 5) Washington Wizards

Western Conference
1) LA Lakers vs. 8) Denver Nuggets
2) New Orleans Hornets vs. 7) Dallas Mavericks
3) San Antonio Spurs vs. 6) Phoenix Suns
4) Utah Jazz vs. 5) Houston Rockets

FC Barcelona gets ready to host Manchester United, at Camp Nou, Wednesday April 23rd, for some UEFA Champions League Semi-final action.Both teams are undefeated and someone has to go home a loser.  Man United last played at Camp Nou in 1999 when they beat out Barca to advance into the finals.


Manchester United mi sayyyyyyyyy innnooo to di world

-- Edited by Dj Moet at 11:43, 2008-04-23

Manchester United absorbed Barcelona pressure to claim a 0-0 draw at Camp Nou in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League semi-final clash, but may yet live to regret Cristiano Ronaldo's early penalty miss. In just the second minute of the encounter, United were handed a golden opportunity to claim a priceless away goal when Gabriel Milito was penalised for handling Ronaldo's goalwards header. The Portugal international stepped up but thrashed his spot-kick wide of goalkeeper Victor Valdes' left-hand post to send the home fans delirious. However, the game's opening drama failed to continue, and while Samuel Eto'o wasted decent chances, Sir Alex Ferguson's men comfortably soaked up Barca's dominant possession to claim an away stalemate. Handled Ronaldo, with 38 goals to his name this season, was left frustrated when Milito handled inside the penalty area in the second minute of the game. Swiss referee Massimo Busacca had no hesitation in pointing to the spot, waving away protests from Barcelona. Ronaldo stepped up to take the penalty kick - only to see his effort fly wide of the target. The Portugal winger was left holding his head in his hands after missing a golden opportunity of giving United a precious away goal. Ferguson's side struggled to find their rhythm in the first half, with Barcelona having the majority of possession. Lionel Messi picked out Samuel Eto'o in the 13th minute only for Paul Scholes - on his 100th Champions League appearance - to make a vital interception. Barcelona pressed forward again in the 21st minute and Rafael Marquez got clear of his marker but his header failed to trouble goalkeeper Edwin Van der Sar, who was back in the side following a groin injury. Then Yaya Toure showed good skill for the home side and sent a good cross into the area which was turned away by Van der Sar. Ronaldo felt he should have had another penalty in the 30th minute when he was bundled over by Marquez after Xavi had carelessly lost possession. However, referee Busacca waved away appeals and allowed play to continue, leaving the United winger frustrated. Tempo Barca were dictating the tempo at this stage and Eto'o rattled in a shot after 34 minutes but Wes Brown made a vital block. Barcelona were spraying the ball around well, however, and won a free-kick in the 38th minute. But Deco got little power on his effort and Van der Sar made a comfortable save. United hit back and Marquez was booked in the 44th minute after tripping Ronaldo as he attempted to surge forward. Ronaldo dusted himself down but sent his effort from an acute angle wide of the post. Barcelona were quickly on the offensive at the start of the second half and Messi saw his effort blocked in the 47th minute, before Van der Sar did well to tip over Gianluca Zambrotta's long-range shot. Eto'o skipped away from Ferdinand and tried to pick out Messi - but Michael Carrick was perfectly positioned and made the clearance. Eto'o got clear in the 52nd minute but sent his effort into the side-netting, before Deco tested Van der Sar three minutes later with a low drive. The Dutch goalkeeper was equal to Xavi's effort from 20 yards before Messi - who had only recently returned from injury - was replaced by Bojan Krkic in the 63rd minute. Threat Bojan was no less a threat than the Argentine, having scored the winning goal in the quarter-final first leg against Schalke. United were finding it difficult to set up any attacks, leaving Ronaldo, Rooney and Carlos Tevez fairly isolated up front. Former Arsenal favourite Thierry Henry was called into the action after 77 minutes with Deco coming off. Henry quickly picked up the pace of the game and rattled in a shot after 83 minutes that Van der Sar beat away. The United goalkeeper then got his body behind a Henry free-kick as United held out for a creditable draw.

From Arsenal.Com

Arsène Wenger was pleased to hear David Villa compliment his team but he is not making a move for the Valencia striker.

This week the 26-year-old was quoted as saying Arsenal's attractive style of play made Emirates Stadium his preferred destination. The Spaniard is hot property at the moment with a healthy record of 51 goals in 95 games for his club and 13 in 30 for his country. Despite that, Wenger ruled out a move in the summer.

On the contrary, the Frenchman believes goalscoring has not been a problem for his side this term and his improving young strikers need room to grow.

"We are not in the transfer market for David Villa," said Wenger at his pre-match press conference. "He has said some very complimentary things about us which we take as a big honour. I rate him highly as a player but I will not make concrete investigations for anyone at the moment."

The manager went on: "I feel up front I need to give time to Walcott and Bendtner because they have made big improvement for me this season. Theo is coming on so I need to give them a chance or they will not come out."

In fact, the Arsenal manager argues goal-scoring is not where his side need strengthening. It is more the other end of the pitch that has been his concern.

"We were leading at Chelsea, Liverpool and Man United plus we were leading at home against Liverpool," he said. "So we can score goals. What we could not stop is conceding goals in big games.

"You know that nine times out of 10 the team that wins the big games is the team who scores first. But we lost these games after being in front. We suffered more as a team defensively rather than offensively."

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Arsene Wenger has insisted he is ready to spend big money in the transfer window if he feels a player is worth it.

 

Wenger's policy in recent seasons has been to bring in promising youngsters from around Europe and mould them into better players.

 

He has unearthed a number of gems but critics have argued that he should move for more established professionals this summer after another season without silverware.

 

Speaking before the defeat at Old Trafford on Sunday, Wenger stated that he may only sign one experienced player prior to next term.

 

Francis Jeffers and Jose Antonio Reyes both failed to live up to hefty price tags but Wenger maintains that has not put him off spending large amounts.

 

The Gunners boss has also dismissed suggestions that he would be 'scared' of bringing in a superstar like Ronaldinho.

 

"Scared of what? I would not be scared. We couldn't afford him now so we have to forget it," Wenger told the club's official website.

 

"But the money (we have paid out) is not comparable to what other teams have spent on players.

 

"For example with Reyes we got a big part back and for Jeffers a little part back.

 

"If we have the money, and I am convinced it is worth it, we will do it."

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JOSE MOURINHO says Roman Abramovich will never be able to replace him at Stamford Bridge.

The Special One insists he is no longer Chelsea boss because he was a victim of his own outstanding early success.

Owner Red Rom is ready to call time on Avram Grants reign this summer if the Blues fail to capture any silverware.

And Mourinho has turned up the heat by reminding the billionaire Russian that even Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger struggle to match his record in England.

Guus Hiddink, Frank Rijkaard and Henk Ten Cate have all been touted as possible new managers but Mourinho does not feel anyone can measure up to him.

Looking back to the end of his three-year reign, Mourinho said: When Chelsea dropped points to Manchester United, for months everyone had their right to speculate.

They said Chelsea were no longer dominant. In three months, without Chelsea having lost anything, they invented 14 future managers of the club to replace me.

I was the first manager in Premier League history to become a champion in his first season.

Perhaps I won too soon. I felt I was the victim of my own success, that the victories in championships and cups came too early.

In a book called Jose Mourinho: Born Winner he adds: The percentage of wins by Arsene Wenger in his first 100 games in the English league is 50 per cent.

"And Alex Ferguson, in the same number of games, barely managed to achieve three points in half of them.

And my Chelsea beat those numbers completely, with well over 70 league wins, two titles in a row without blinking and leaving the directors of the Premier League on the verge of a nervous breakdown?

Does that make me a better manager than Wenger or Ferguson?

No. But it does not make me a worse manager than them

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CRISTIANO RONALDO is set to sign a new £40million deal with Manchester United.

He will become the highest-paid player in England on a massive £150,000 a week.

The Portuguese winger, 23, will put pen to paper on the five-year deal before Euro 2008.

Ronaldos current contract had four years to run but United want to stave off Real Madrid.

A United source said: This will be the biggest contract in the clubs history. Given Ronaldos achievements over the past two years, its easy to understand why.

There is no doubt he is the best player in the world and we want to make sure he is happy at United. There is only one place for him and that is Old Trafford.

Boost for Alex Ferguson

Ronaldo, currently on £100,000 a week, is enjoying a sensational season. He has scored 37 goals for United in all competitions and is the hottest property in world football.

The news is a big boost for boss Alex Ferguson, whose troops face Arsenal in tomorrows title clash.

Real were plotting a massive bid for Ronaldo in the summer, while Barcelona and Inter Milan were also planning swoops.

Real technical director Pedja Mijatovic held a meeting with Ronaldos agent Jorge Mendes to reiterate the clubs desire to capture the superstar.

But Mendes made it clear to Madrid that Ronaldo is set to stay at Old Trafford.

Ronaldos new deal will dwarf that of team-mate Wayne Rooney on £112,000 a week.

He leapfrogs the Chelsea quartet of Michael Ballack and Andriy Shevchenko both on £130,000 a week and Frank Lampard and John Terry, who are on £120,000 a week.

But he has some way to go to match the biggest earners in world sport. Tiger Woods pulls in £50m a year, boxer Oscar de la Hoya earned £22m in 2007 and golfer Phil Mickelson was just behind on £21m.

David Beckhams pay at LA Galaxy is about £16m a year but he earns millions more in sponsorship deals.

CHELSEA'S DREAM OF WINNING A THIRD PREMIER LEAGUE WAS PUT ON A SET BACK TODAY AS WIGAN MANAGED TO GET A LAST MINUTE GOAL THROUGH HESKY.

CHELSEA WAS PUT IN FRON DURING THE SECOND HALF BY ESSIEN. THE BLUES NEVER LOOKED STABLE AND DID NOT PLAY LIKE THEY WANTED TO BE CHAMPIONS. BLUES COACH AVRAM GRANT WAS SEEN RUNNING HIS HAND THROUGH HIS HAIR AS IF TO SAY HIS LIFE WAS NOW OVER.

FINAL SCORE CHELSEA 1 - WIGAN 1.

MANCHESTER UNITED NOW LEADS CHELSEA BY 5 POINTS WITH ABOUT 5 GAMES TO GO. CAN THE RED DEVILS HOLD ON...OR CAN CHELSEA BUY THEIR WAY OUT OF THIS ONE.

All is not well at The Emirates folks


ARSENE WENGER is facing the first dressing room crisis of his Arsenal career.

On the day of the Old Trafford clash which could kill off the Gunners' season entirely, unhappy stars are questioning the manager (above) over tactics and team selection.Major rifts have also opened amongst the players with goalkeeper Manuel Almunia admitting he knows he is hated' by rival Jens Lehmann.

Arsenal's Champions League progress had helped paper over the cracks.

Tension
But after losing to Liverpool in midweek, there is a growing tension between managers and some players.

One Gunners source said: "The turning point was going out of the FA Cup to Manchester United, the team hasn't recovered from that.

"Suddenly there are major inquests going on. Nobody can understand why Kolo Toure was played at right-back instead of centre-half in big games, everybody can see Emmanuel Eboue isn't a midfielder and there is too much pressure on Cesc Fabregas to carry the team.
"Arsene wants to play attractive, passing football but some of the senior players think he's breeding a team of youngsters who think it's OK to just play well without having to actually graft to win games.

"There isn't a winning mentality like there is at Manchester United or Chelsea. There doesn't seem to be a win-at-all-cost attitude."

Friction
Almunia went public on the breakdown in his relationship with Lehmann, admitting: "To have someone here who hates me is just amazing. I know he hates me.

"Every morning I know it's going to be the same but I don't care. I don't want any relationship with him any more."

There is also friction between skipper William Gallas and some of the younger players.

And the growing resentment with Nicklas Bendtner was highlighted when only Theo Walcott congratulated him for his goal against Liverpool last weekend.

Alumunia revealed Wenger dislikes tension. The keeper said: "The boss is trying to build a team of kind people. He doesn't like arguments."

Many believe Wenger is missing the influence of former vice-chairman David Dein, who left the club a year ago.

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Manchester United all but ended Arsenal's hopes of taking the title with a 2-1 victory at Old Trafford. The Gunners took the lead through Emmanuel Adebayor at the start of the second half, but were eventually beaten by a Cristiano Ronaldo penalty and a fabulous free-kick from Owen Hargreaves. With their title dreams hanging in the balance before the match got underway, it came as no surprise that it was the visitors who started the brightest and forced the pace of the game during the opening exchanges. Cesc Fabregas flashed a couple of early efforts narrowly past the frame of Edwin van der Sar's goal, while Emmanuel Adebayor wasted the best of the Gunners' chances. Wayne Rooney looked lively, if slightly isolated, up front for United and it was he who went closest for the Red Devils during a goalless opening period. In a game which had promised goals throughout the first half, it took just three minutes of the second period for a breakthrough to be made. Van Persie swung over a dangerous cross from the left, which Van der Sar then inexplicably let drift past him straight to Adebayor. The Togolese hit man appeared to bundle the ball home with his arm, but the goal stood and the Gunners had a deserved lead. However, United's response was almost immediate as they levelled things up just five minutes later. William Gallas was adjudged to have used his arm to cut out a Carrick pass, enabling Ronaldo to calmly dispatch a twice-taken penalty low into the corner of the net. Once back on level terms United looked the most likely to snatch all three points, and duly obliged when Hargreaves curled a sublime free-kick past a stranded Lehmann on 72 minutes. Wes Brown then deflected a Gael Clichy cross onto his own post, and Nicklas Bendtner went close with two far post headers, but the Gunners were ultimately unable to force a second.

DENVER (TICKER) Denver Nuggets star forward Carmelo Anthony was arrested Monday morning for suspicion of driving under the influence.

Denver police stated that Anthony was driving south on Interstate 25 roughly around 4 a.m. when he was pulled over and taken into custody. Investigators said he was driving a silver Mercedes that was stopped for failing to drive in a single lane and failing to dim lights.

Carmelo was pulled over late Sunday night on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol, said Anthonys lawyer Dan Recht in a statement. He cooperated by consenting to a *lo** test, the results of which will not be available for approximately two weeks. There was no accident and no one was hurt.

Like anyone in a similar situation, Carmelo has to wait for the results of his *lo** test. He regrets putting himself in this situation.

Anthony was released on bond Monday morning on his own recognizance. A summons appearance was scheduled for May 14.

We are aware of the situation involving Carmelo Anthony, said Nuggets vice president of basketball operations Mark Warkentien in a prepared statement. We are currently gathering information and we will have no further comment at this time.

The Nuggets defeated the Houston Rockets, 111-94, on Sunday. Anthony scored just 11 points on 3-of-14 shooting and was limited to 25 minutes by foul trouble.

The Professor didn't turn to complex calculations or the tactics' table to determine where it all went wrong for Arsenal for a fourth straight season.

Arsene Wenger concluded that his failure to recapture the Premier League title is simply down to being unlucky.

Ditto for European play.

The week when the Arsenal manager's Champions League ambitions were extinguished by Liverpool worsened yesterday when Manchester United rallied for a 2-1 victory that wiped out any lingering hopes for a domestic championship.

And just like at Anfield, his side was done in by a late disputed refereeing decision after dominating the first half.

"I'm very proud of my team and we have to continue producing the kind of football we produce and not always be unlucky," Wenger said. "We played very well at Liverpool and today five days later. With all the things that went against us recently we have to be exceptionally strong to produce a performance like we did here."

Making amends

Arsenal were determined to make amends for February's humiliating 4-0 FA Cup defeat to United, which triggered a slump that saw the club lose a five-point lead atop the league.

Emmanuel Adebayor gave his team hope by giving Arsenal the lead three minutes after the break, nudging the ball over the line with what appeared to be his arm.

But Cristiano Ronaldo equalised on a penalty six minutes later after William Gallas blocked the ball with his hand and Owen Hargreaves curled a free kick into the net in the 72nd, with Jens Lehmann stranded at the far post.

Wenger criticized referee Howard Webb for giving that free kick, after Gilberto was deemed to have fouled Patrice Evra. Wenger struck a similar tune after a disputed late penalty against Liverpool sent Arsenal out of the Champions League on Tuesday.

"I believe defensively we played quite well," Wenger said. "We lost on a penalty you can give it, you can not give it, but we are used to it now. On the free kick he didn't touch him, Gilberto. I believe these two decisions made of course a big difference."

Arsenal emerged as the team to beat early in the season with a scintillating display of offensive-minded soccer before the talented - but small - squad ran out of steam.

Very difficult

"The difference between success and failure this season was very little and in the end we have to accept we won't win the title," Wenger said. "It's very difficult to swallow because we don't think there's a difference in the technical quality between us, Chelsea and Manchester United."

Chelsea trail United by six points, but have a game in hand. Arsenal are now nine points behind the United, after holding a five-point lead in February.

"The last two months, we have been not very lucky and you could see that again," Wenger said. "The confidence has dropped a little bit going through a difficult period in the last two months.

"You can't fault the spirit, which has been exceptional. When you get knock after knock it's difficult to take."

Despite the lack of trophies, Wenger insists his players' silky soccer is beneficial for everyone.

"We feel that we have done a lot for the promotion of the Premier League all over the world," he said. "We want to continue playing that way, as well as playing better. The trophies will come, there is a thin margin between winning and losing.

"We have to look beyond the fact the winner is praised beyond reason and the team that doesn't win is also slaughtered beyond reason. Football is something more than that."