Welcome to Victor Eke's blog: Soccer

C. Ronaldo Hits Winner As Real Madrid Beat Barcelona At Camp Nou

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLyu6Su9MAXsRDQ7EDcZHysy8H5WyDpHPnw-59iIZf__2-DKbJLjLSGMZWkv5SKtQD9Yn5x2VeFkq5nXGDV8Uh-zyUU-ShTezGII4XR4NnTlz61lnSJEXAWtCvxlQjih4Ws_mlQrnA-I3A/s2560/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLyu6Su9MAXsRDQ7EDcZHysy8H5WyDpHPnw-59iIZf__2-DKbJLjLSGMZWkv5SKtQD9Yn5x2VeFkq5nXGDV8Uh-zyUU-ShTezGII4XR4NnTlz61lnSJEXAWtCvxlQjih4Ws_mlQrnA-I3A/s640/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;"/></a>Cristiano Ronaldo struck an 85th-minute winner at Camp Nou as Real Madrid came from behind in El Clasico to beat Barcelona 2-1 and end the Catalan outfit’s 39-game unbeaten run in the process. 
Karim Benzema cancelled out a header from Gerard Pique to leave the two teams on terms entering the latter stages, but Ronaldo netted five minutes from time as Los Blancos won the La Liga contest in Catalonia, despite being reduced to 10 men late on when Sergio Ramos was given the marching orders. 
Barcelona remain top of the table on 76 points – six clear of second-place Atletico Madrid, while Real Madrid have moved to within seven of Luis Enrique’s side and to within one of their capital rivals with seven games of the season left to play in Spain’s top flight. 
Like Barcelona, Los Blancos also had their first-choice front three available, with Gareth Bale and Karim Benzema joining the league’s top scorer, Ronaldo, in the final third of the field. 
 
The first real chance of the match came to Barcelona in the 10th minute when Neymar drove away from Ramos before feeding a wonderful cross into Suarez, but the striker, under no pressure, somehow failed to make contact from close range, much to the relief of the away team. 
Messi bent a free kick just over the Real Madrid crossbar as Barcelona came close once again in the 19th minute, before Keylor Navas got down to keep out a low strike from Ivan Rakitic within the next 60 seconds. 
Barcelona had a strong penalty shout in the 24th minute when Messi went down under contact from Ramos, but the referee was not interested, despite replays showing that clear contact was made. Had the Spanish official pointed to the spot or indeed for a free kick just outside the box, a second yellow for Ramos would have surely arrived. 
 
Real Madrid went straight down the other end and came close on two separate occasions, but Ronaldo’s strike was palmed away by Claudio Bravo, before Bale fired over the crossbar from a wide angle. 
Ronaldo then had the chance to line up a set piece in the 30th minute as Real Madrid began to threaten on the counter attack, but the Portuguese just missed the target during a disappointing half of action. 
An inventive chip from Messi almost caught out Navas in the 55th minute following a swift Barcelona move involving Neymar and Suarez, but the stopper flew across his goal to make a fine stop and keep the two teams on terms. 
 
Barcelona were ahead in the 57th minute, however, when Pique, who had slipped Pepe inside the box, headed a Rakitic corner past Navas from close range to send the home supporters into jubilation. 
Real Madrid were back on terms in the 62nd minute though as Benzema produced a brilliant volley from inside the box after a cross from Kroos had been deflected into the vicinity of the centre-forward. 
Bale had the ball in the back of the net in the 80th minute when he headed past Bravo from close range, but the referee blew late for a free kick on Jordi Alba, before Ronaldo rattled the Barcelona crossbar moments later. 
 
Real Madrid were eventually reduced to 10 men in the 83rd minute when Ramos picked up a second yellow for a terrible challenge on Suarez and it was the last in a long list of poor tackles from the Spanish international on the night. 
It was the visitors that continued to drive forward, however, and Zidane’s team won it five minutes from time when Ronaldo controlled a wonderful cross from Bale before firing home from close range to silence Camp Nou and ensure that Real Madrid gained revenge from their Bernabeu embarrassment earlier this season.</div>

C. Ronaldo Hits Winner As Real Madrid Beat Barcelona At Camp Nou

Cristiano Ronaldo struck an 85th-minute winner at Camp Nou as Real Madrid came from behind in El Clasico to beat Barcelona 2-1 and end the C...

Van Gaal accuses Mata of 'damaging' Manchester United after red card

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiBnSrmjSRzg_Tigcb5CSItaKfqkR_yilksd1FJlUUeAFL7uuPKsKWPXkTp9pKBw6UrjPUbucSfE1IJ_Uoyy2ucbns_TBdtWwUM_TaloCJ9I55G-r8iTcEUEpkiGCdQXeVofV1KmNiWeex/s2560/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiBnSrmjSRzg_Tigcb5CSItaKfqkR_yilksd1FJlUUeAFL7uuPKsKWPXkTp9pKBw6UrjPUbucSfE1IJ_Uoyy2ucbns_TBdtWwUM_TaloCJ9I55G-r8iTcEUEpkiGCdQXeVofV1KmNiWeex/s640/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;"/></a>The Spaniard was sent off for the first time in his career - but the Dutchman also feels that the referee should have taken into account the midfielder's personalityLouis van Gaal admits Juan Mata ‘damaged’ Manchester United’s chances of victory in Sunday’s defeat to West Brom before suggesting that the referee should have taken into account the midfielder's character. 
 
The Spaniard was sent off after just 26 minutes at The Hawthorns for two yellow cards - one for preventing a quick free-kick, and the second for a challenge on Darren Fletcher. 
 
It was the first red card of Mata's professional career, but Van Gaal was keen to stress that the midfielder has never intentionally hurt an opponent. 
 
“The first yellow card I think was stupid because you know in advance it’s a yellow card, but the second, you know you already have one yellow card, you have to take into account with the second, it’s difficult. You damage the benefit of the team,” Van Gaal told Sky Sports. 
 
 
“But the referee also has to know the person who makes the tackle. And Juan Mata has never hurt an opponent. 
 
“I ask him also, how many red cards have you had? None, it’s the first." 
 
When asked if taking Mata’s personality into account is relevant, Van Gaal replied: “No, it’s not relevant, but you have to know the characters of the players, I think. 
 
“And that’s why an experienced referee is always better. And I always think you take that into account.”</div>

Van Gaal accuses Mata of 'damaging' Manchester United after red card

The Spaniard was sent off for the first time in his career - but the Dutchman also feels that the referee should have taken into account the...

Arsenal fans turn their backs on Wenger's flops

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkvlXduSrEOkSI_Lktz1K7aXvjIJAzxYnFxSbkhchwTEjOqMvPSnyobj07TbkbRWmZKkzzcH9HYY_osVKMWhRcx7JhD7ybjQC6q1Sq5SHqzaSbIaQ3BKfB91DtYOS5uLd5myH4Qs4VXGSZ/s2560/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkvlXduSrEOkSI_Lktz1K7aXvjIJAzxYnFxSbkhchwTEjOqMvPSnyobj07TbkbRWmZKkzzcH9HYY_osVKMWhRcx7JhD7ybjQC6q1Sq5SHqzaSbIaQ3BKfB91DtYOS5uLd5myH4Qs4VXGSZ/s640/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;"/></a>Yesterday March 3, the Gunners suffered an embarrassing 2-1 defeat by Swansea at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday and a season that promised so much is pretty much in tatters Arsene Wenger has experienced plenty of low points since Arsenal last won the Premier League title almost 12 years ago. 
 
Now it feels like the Arsenal manager really is reaching the nadir and the end. 
 
He has no chance of reviving the club’s title challenge this season, not with the type of poison that came from the stands during Wednesday night’s 2-1 home defeat by Swansea. 
 
Those supporters that stayed until the end did not just boo at the final whistle, they jeered the players down the tunnel one-by-one. 
 
After Ashley Williams put Swansea 2-1 ahead in the 74th minute, some fans had enough, storming out of the ground unwilling to watch the remainder of the match despite paying more for their season tickets here than any other club in the country. 
 
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik6WPc8gAjQawkuTUDQgZqUFGhxELR7u1vpSWhfyA4m3fhBLb88P9Hd5dRJwxusZuHyAe3obOwPnzmqeAZHsgeUE4PtnBwghU5sARpO9D0o41g9ct5nCLcMeV6cVGen33jvajMr8ya0mdH/s2560/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik6WPc8gAjQawkuTUDQgZqUFGhxELR7u1vpSWhfyA4m3fhBLb88P9Hd5dRJwxusZuHyAe3obOwPnzmqeAZHsgeUE4PtnBwghU5sARpO9D0o41g9ct5nCLcMeV6cVGen33jvajMr8ya0mdH/s640/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;"/></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz2pJC88JSgQG9_EoAn1a_ZcP_Mns9BfheSyJwM1xYhO_L1buBYaC1yj09vmTinTc0o7K0-GdMt3pLoF0at8c0t5PQKK1slUy5mej0slZI-nQyd33saXCS66Wujrw5JkAcjM3H60hmy_SV/s2560/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz2pJC88JSgQG9_EoAn1a_ZcP_Mns9BfheSyJwM1xYhO_L1buBYaC1yj09vmTinTc0o7K0-GdMt3pLoF0at8c0t5PQKK1slUy5mej0slZI-nQyd33saXCS66Wujrw5JkAcjM3H60hmy_SV/s640/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;"/></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIK3Haxe0dh7-915WlpLbDmMQjM_YBu3fL9K6JDq7dnFy1oqXUKU4qqAddxGt_v2EGmotOP2WRgh1WRUfGehZrh20S4Z5SCHl3mD0_OfcFOELtH7aoYd_LI21tpy_guXDh8Luk_jlUBN4s/s2560/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIK3Haxe0dh7-915WlpLbDmMQjM_YBu3fL9K6JDq7dnFy1oqXUKU4qqAddxGt_v2EGmotOP2WRgh1WRUfGehZrh20S4Z5SCHl3mD0_OfcFOELtH7aoYd_LI21tpy_guXDh8Luk_jlUBN4s/s640/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;"/></a> 
 
 
The crowd had already started to turn on Wenger when they expressed their anger at Joel Campbell’s substitution for Danny Welbeck. Campbell had scored Arsenal’s opener and was one of the few bright points from a dismal evening. 
 
Arsenal are blowing their season and the worst thing is that it’s barely a surprise. This is what they do. Every year. It is as predictable as it is infuriating. 
 
After the grim performance in Sunday’s 3-2 loss to Manchester United, this was a chance for Arsenal to respond, to show they have the character to match their obvious quality and win their first title since 2004. 
 
Leicester’s draw with West Brom on Tuesday night had opened the door, only for Wenger and his men to allow it to swing back into their faces and leave them all bloody nosed. 
 
It felt like this would be a comfortable Arsenal victory, especially when Campbell put them ahead in the 15th minute with a sharp half-volley. 
 
But they were caught on the counter-attack as Wayne Routledge levelled before the break and from then on played into Swansea’s hands. 
 
The visitors did ride their luck as Arsenal hit the woodwork three times over the 90 minutes. 
 
Swansea, though, looked increasingly dangerous on the counter-attack and would also have targeted Arsenal at set-pieces. 
 
That is how Williams scored the winner 16 minutes from time after Cech completely missed an attempted punch from Gylfi Sigurdsson’s corner. 
 
The boos rang around the Emirates, Wenger raged on the touchline, the red-shirted players froze on the pitch. 
 
The message from the supporters is clear. They believe the club put profit before glory, that Wenger is no longer capable of winning the Premier League – a change must surely be on the horizon.</div>

Arsenal fans turn their backs on Wenger's flops

Yesterday March 3, the Gunners suffered an embarrassing 2-1 defeat by Swansea at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday and a season that promise...

Blow for Arsenal as Cazorla suffers further injury setback

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipZbZRXeeeIgNdlE2MGZ-g8_XP_wqeAJPIlqdTCgS4FZ_5ddPic4nm2BwfcEqivHFkOwzuBh7q3BpsaGW720u5cCzmD1F8MZwKqDsyLGx1lxGsgH1GO_oY1WnLcovHqUVnoS6zBI5P_hiF/s2560/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipZbZRXeeeIgNdlE2MGZ-g8_XP_wqeAJPIlqdTCgS4FZ_5ddPic4nm2BwfcEqivHFkOwzuBh7q3BpsaGW720u5cCzmD1F8MZwKqDsyLGx1lxGsgH1GO_oY1WnLcovHqUVnoS6zBI5P_hiF/s640/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;"/></a>The Spanish star has suffered a serious setback as he attempted to bounce back from knee surgery, and he is likely to miss the entire final stage of the Premier League raceArsenal's title hopes have been dealt a serious blow by a setback in Santi Cazorla's recovery from a knee injury. 
 
The Spaniard underwent surgery after rupturing a knee ligament in November and hoped to return to competitive action in March. 
 
A problem with his Achilles, however, is delaying his recovery programme and has put his involvement in the Gunners' run-in in the Premier League title race in doubt. 
 
"Santi is not doing too well," Arsene Wenger revealed. "He has some Achilles problems that hold him [back]. His knee is doing well but his Achilles has inflamed a little bit and we have to put him off impact. 
 
 
 
"It is a reaction to him coming back. We have to see now how he responds. He had always a little tendonitis on his Achilles and we have to see how he responds to that." 
 
Jack Wilshere has not featured at all for Arsenal in 2015-16 after breaking his leg in pre-season and Wenger is likely to be without Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain for two months after he sustained a knee injury against Barcelona. 
 
"Jack is doing quite well but has still not been outside yet," the manager added. "Running, I think, starts again this week. It will be three to four weeks [from there]. 
 
"Alex will be out for six for eight weeks. No surgery. We feared surgery at some stage before we saw the MRI." 
 
Goal.com</div>

Blow for Arsenal as Cazorla suffers further injury setback

The Spanish star has suffered a serious setback as he attempted to bounce back from knee surgery, and he is likely to miss the entire final ...

No more Nigerian coach for Eagles – NFF

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCnODfEodfqK-zSEPzy1GLSxpxpZXqBDgeIoQonhWmDK-ohQeB0TxiGjWc_ATZ2Js9dw9vhNAkfo_ivHJm-L8EOSi1iIscl5sUb5vEpPNgmfLq6h6PAPbtcIPyHPs82kxpOHCr4gamFvPS/s2560/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCnODfEodfqK-zSEPzy1GLSxpxpZXqBDgeIoQonhWmDK-ohQeB0TxiGjWc_ATZ2Js9dw9vhNAkfo_ivHJm-L8EOSi1iIscl5sUb5vEpPNgmfLq6h6PAPbtcIPyHPs82kxpOHCr4gamFvPS/s640/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;"/></a>President of the Nigeria Football Federation Amaju Pinnick 
 
 
 
 
President of the Nigeria Football Federation Amaju Pinnick has declared that Sunday Oliseh will be the last Nigerian coach for the Super Eagles under the current board. Pinnick made the position of the federation known while speaking at the 18th Annual Africa Business Conference of the Harvard Business School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States according to hotsports.tv. 
 
The FA boss told the gathering that the federation had reached the end of the road in keeping faith with Nigerians as head of the Eagles coaching staff. 
 
He said, “After this Sunday Oliseh debacle, we have definitely turned the corner. We are now going to start shopping for a well-grounded and qualified foreign coach to tinker the team. Enough is enough. “What we have learnt is that there is a world of difference between being a good coach and being a good manager.” 
 
 
 
The Olympic Eagles coach Samson Siasia was announced as a quick replacement for Oliseh last Friday in what is seen as a temporary measure. And with Pinnick’s statement any thought of keeping Siasia for a long period as the Eagles coach may have been laid to rest. 
 
Oliseh and the NFF parted ways last week after just eight months on the job. The former Eagles captain made public his resignation in the early hours of Friday via Twitter. 
 
In his Twitter message Oliseh said he was quitting, “Due to contract violations, lack of support, unpaid wages, benefits to my players, assistant coaches and myself, I resign as Super Eagles chief coach. I feel fortunate, blessed and eternally grateful for having had the honour to play, captain and coach this great nation of ours, Nigeria.” 
 
The NFF members had first talked about getting a foreigner as the Eagles coach soon after asking the former Eagles coach Stephen Keshi to go last year. Oliseh’s appearance on the scene ended the talks about getting somebody from Europe. 
 
No name has been mentioned but if the NFF go all the way, it may mean having foreigners in the two senior national teams as the FA had announced in February that they are in search of a foreigner for the Super Falcons too.</div>

No more Nigerian coach for Eagles – NFF

President of the Nigeria Football Federation Amaju Pinnick President of the Nigeria Football Federation Amaju Pinnick has declared tha...

We were 'naive' - Arsene Wenger slams Arsenal.

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifUB-mxaPeQEW4uM-UUuDNoLWxUKLAYfVYLySYMJoi5Q7FxvCbbjQ4X2laary8iyag3a04VT42uUGEzo_NsbEmegVc0zxNEOFaieShMFL3hD6JZyg0aW31BTPkk3JV2VT7_9K0IyF2vj1p/s2560/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifUB-mxaPeQEW4uM-UUuDNoLWxUKLAYfVYLySYMJoi5Q7FxvCbbjQ4X2laary8iyag3a04VT42uUGEzo_NsbEmegVc0zxNEOFaieShMFL3hD6JZyg0aW31BTPkk3JV2VT7_9K0IyF2vj1p/s640/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;"/></a>The Frenchman compared his side's 2-0 defeat to Barcelona to the loss they suffered at the Emirates Stadium against Monaco last season at the same stage of the competitionArsene Wenger accused his Arsenal players of naivety after they fell to a 2-0 defeat to Barcelona on Tuesday and suggested they had failed to learn from past mistakes. 
 
Lionel Messi struck twice in the second half for the defending champions to secure a significant advantage going into the second leg at Camp Nou in a month's time. 
 
Arsenal had chances of their own to take the lead at the Emirates Stadium, however, and Wenger was left to rue the way his side were subsequently caught on the break. 
 
"We were naive," he told BT Sport. "Similar to Monaco [in last season's last 16], when it looked like we could win this game we gave it away. 
 
 
"That [second goal] makes it realistically very difficult, if not impossible [to come back]. We have to go there and fight. 
 
"It is difficult because I thought in the last 20 minutes there would be room to score. We had the chances but didn’t score. 
 
"They are lethal. One thing we couldn’t afford to give them was counter attacks because they are very dangerous. That’s exactly what we did. We pushed too far in their half and got caught. That’s down to their quality as well. 
 
"It’s too easy to blame I think you have to respect the effort the players put in. What is frustrating is that it looked like they might tire. 
 
"I knew in the last 20 minutes we would have a chance to win the game if we don’t make any mistakes and that’s the frustration of the night."</div>

We were 'naive' - Arsene Wenger slams Arsenal.

The Frenchman compared his side's 2-0 defeat to Barcelona to the loss they suffered at the Emirates Stadium against Monaco last season a...

Chelsea clash 'isn't a real game' - Pellegrini.

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpMZ_CwkeyJeyI80XIoXsvUdunqc3pHucXO-b_66T1G2yQDzXJubQKic_BFxq7wepSfrqJzkEANuPxpTuutXvkm-tvqfS1PrnQO5g2krUE7bSwdtQIKD9kvbYOdPfxq89kwlXgmoZa5ZFa/s2560/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpMZ_CwkeyJeyI80XIoXsvUdunqc3pHucXO-b_66T1G2yQDzXJubQKic_BFxq7wepSfrqJzkEANuPxpTuutXvkm-tvqfS1PrnQO5g2krUE7bSwdtQIKD9kvbYOdPfxq89kwlXgmoZa5ZFa/s640/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;"/></a>The 62-year-old has held the English FA to blame for the reduced importance he is giving the FA Cup fifth round fixture with the Blues 
Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini has maintained the FA Cup fifth round clash with Chelsea is "not a real game", blaming the English FA for the awkward scheduling of the fixture. 
 
A group of seven Manchester City youngsters are set to be included in the squad for Sunday's tie at Stamford Bridge, with the club to rotate heavily ahead of a Champions League fixture at Dynamo Kiev on Wednesday. 
 
Defenders Tosin Adarabayio and Cameron Humphreys, midfielders Brandon Barker, Manu Garcia and Aleix Garcia as well as strikers David Faupala and Bersant Celina were omitted from the club's under-21 side on Saturday in anticipation of being selected. 
 
Aware of the possibility that his fledgling side could be badly outclassed, Pellegrini urged supporters to understand his reasoning, saying it would be different if circumstances had permitted. 
 
"I think it's not a real game [against Chelsea], of course; not enough to pay the ticket," the Chilean told reporters. "I always give a lot of importance to the cups. They must think why [City are fielding reserves]. 
 
 
 
"We always try to play a strong team in the cups, and it would be very nice to finish with a game at Wembley, but there are some moments when you have to prioritise because you don't receive any help and you could damage your prospects. 
 
"The fans want to see a good game but we told them one week ago that we are going to play a young team. If the people want to continue going to the stadium, that's for them." 
 
Pellegrini has expressed his frustration with the scheduling of the fixture in such close proximity to the Champions League and next Sunday's Capital One Cup final, in which his men are due to play Liverpool, on many occasions. 
 
And the 62-year-old took to the chance to reiterate how he felt it was a pity that the FA Cup should be relegated in terms of importance, but stated his hands are tied on the matter. 
 
"I have enough problems trying to manage a team, without managing the FA," he continued. "But the reality is that we must make some changes. 
 
"Maybe [the tournament] without replays can be one solution. Someone said we must eliminate one cup, but I think the cups are good. All the stadiums are at full capacity, even if it is a League Two team. 
 
"So I think fans like the football. I think we should continue with the FA Cup because it is very traditional, but we must make some [better] arrangements." 
 
 
 
Goal.com</div>

Chelsea clash 'isn't a real game' - Pellegrini.

The 62-year-old has held the English FA to blame for the reduced importance he is giving the FA Cup fifth round fixture with the Blues Manc...

Keane: Hazard is a 'spoilt child' and needs a good kicking

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnMGSAfN7K1yoZc0uTnsibIi89s46NOLT-b-Okev5MzQkENQXKvZ8QqXj3uo0YwOzIroDqjJP1sI0Tz9KYuLad6x7fLsf-lQjMmag5ZpdI7zCE6NrhiQo2GZAQiP0uSwWIDsx5vhMCLBVC/s2560/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnMGSAfN7K1yoZc0uTnsibIi89s46NOLT-b-Okev5MzQkENQXKvZ8QqXj3uo0YwOzIroDqjJP1sI0Tz9KYuLad6x7fLsf-lQjMmag5ZpdI7zCE6NrhiQo2GZAQiP0uSwWIDsx5vhMCLBVC/s640/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;"/></a>The Republic of Ireland assistant has labelled the Chelsea winger's decision to speak publicly about the prospect of joining PSG prior to their tie as "absolutely ridiculous" 
Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane has launched a scathing attack on Eden Hazard, labelling the Chelsea midfielder a "spoilt child". 
 
The Belgium international talked up a move to Paris Saint-Germain in the lead-up to Chelsea's Champions League last-16 first-leg clash against the Ligue 1 champions on Tuesday. 
 
Keane said it was up to Hazard's older team-mates to teach him a lesson, particularly after the Blues lost 2-1 at the Parc des Princes. 
 
"I really can't understand these players. He signed an extension last year to his contract for another five years. We saw how good he was last year," Keane said on ITV. 
 
 
"And then he's coming out with all that nonsense on the eve of a big, big game. 
 
"If I was one of his team-mates I'd kick him up and down the training pitch. Some of the senior players have got to get hold of him. 
 
"A talented, talented boy but his attitude, even last night, he's like a spoilt child. It's absolutely ridiculous." 
 
Hazard struggled to have an impact in the first leg, leaving the Premier League giants with work to do ahead of the return clash at Stamford Bridge on March 9. 
 
 
 
 
Goal.com</div>

Keane: Hazard is a 'spoilt child' and needs a good kicking

The Republic of Ireland assistant has labelled the Chelsea winger's decision to speak publicly about the prospect of joining PSG prior t...

Kanu - My success at Arsenal opened doors for African players.

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijaKkUmTP5WbA4NMDuW8Ing6ngU15mFvrqboVWGvGt4-hF-Hj7gU5udfnBfQTWsu1yS_CNpnhko0abva_kaa6LrDxZJGxQeE3oXt7tO3dREB4RngY5QFEy_Vtn76dZBpzJNgS1xs2ALH2u/s2560/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijaKkUmTP5WbA4NMDuW8Ing6ngU15mFvrqboVWGvGt4-hF-Hj7gU5udfnBfQTWsu1yS_CNpnhko0abva_kaa6LrDxZJGxQeE3oXt7tO3dREB4RngY5QFEy_Vtn76dZBpzJNgS1xs2ALH2u/s640/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;"/></a>The Nigeria legend believes his accomplishment with the north London side was the lucky charm for African players to thrive in the English topflight. 
 
Kanu Nwankwo has said his success with Arsenal paved way for more African footballers to play and thrive in the English Premier League. 
 
The former Super Eagles skipper joined the Gunners in 1999 and helped Arsene Wenger’s men lift two Premier League trophies, two FA Cups during his five year at the club where he boasts of 44 goals in 198 games. 
 
February 18 marks his 17th anniversary of signing for the club, and the 39-year-old has fond memories of his time in north London. 
 
“I believe I was the first [African] person who came to England and did very well,” Kanu told Arsenal Player. 
 
“After that, the doors opened for African talents so, with Arsenal behind me and what we did with Arsenal, everybody now tends to follow the English league. 
 
“When I came over I saw a good coach who saw the best in me. I was a good player because he made it easier for me to play. 
 
“Everybody believes that English football is all about playing the ball up, not keeping it on the ground, but Arsène has his own idea of football and it made it easier for us. He wanted us to play football the right way, he wanted us to enjoy it by passing the ball around and that’s what we did. 
 
“It was very easy to adjust when you saw the fans. The supporters are behind you and they love you and what you are doing and that means you have to do more. If you keep doing more, they keep loving you and it was very easy for them to adopt me. 
 
“I had the skills and the tricks the fans really love. When I left Arsenal I still had the fans on my mind and since then I’ve been supporting the club,” he concluded. 
 
Before hanging his soccer boots, Kanu also featured for Portsmouth and West Bromwich Albion. 
 
 
 
Goal.com</div>

Kanu - My success at Arsenal opened doors for African players.

The Nigeria legend believes his accomplishment with the north London side was the lucky charm for African players to thrive in the English t...

Man Utd are looking at Mourinho - David Luiz

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbi6kVGcAoxlYKW2eSR-PPXVCPjP0pBrKJincvCTNTCt-V9WswuPAHj3syW_83iXJX19zWIdWrdVI3R3bHFfY66eu0P5Ay91WCoHg565OBZ0Sg07uWljNvRZoR3kZbAn779Opzz629tJBD/s2560/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbi6kVGcAoxlYKW2eSR-PPXVCPjP0pBrKJincvCTNTCt-V9WswuPAHj3syW_83iXJX19zWIdWrdVI3R3bHFfY66eu0P5Ay91WCoHg565OBZ0Sg07uWljNvRZoR3kZbAn779Opzz629tJBD/s640/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;"/></a>The PSG centre-back expects his former Chelsea boss to be back in management soon, with his links to the Blues unlikely to prevent him from moving to Old TraffordDavid Luiz is sure Manchester United are looking at Jose Mourinho, and does not think his former coach would have any problems replacing Louis van Gaal. 
 
Mourinho has been heavily linked with the Old Trafford club as Van Gaal comes under increasing pressure, and has suggested he will be back in management soon. 
 
And the former Chelsea centre-back, who was sold to the Blues' Champions League last 16 opponents while Mourinho was in charge at Stamford Bridge, would not be surprised if the Portuguese joins United in the near future. 
 
“Coaches come, coaches go, it’s part of football,” Luiz told reporters. “Jose won't be out of work for long, he never is. 
 
 
"You can’t dispute the success he has had - that is why I am sure Manchester United are looking at him. 
 
“I don’t think Jose would have any problem taking the Manchester United job. Yes, he will always care for Chelsea, but Jose does what is best for Jose.”</div>

Man Utd are looking at Mourinho - David Luiz

The PSG centre-back expects his former Chelsea boss to be back in management soon, with his links to the Blues unlikely to prevent him from ...

Sports; Blanc extends PSG contract

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBiza3pl_X4T3-_JTJoakBDvH-PWTj-6_OkmHzKijbjv73sECJPEtZNooZvAgPwNOSh6pmc0UE77Xvg-GnJxSzo9gU73tjhEyUH5upH7pNB8K3dXCmWq6CyXcLnCuiZKBip4boB0x4gvHx/s2560/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBiza3pl_X4T3-_JTJoakBDvH-PWTj-6_OkmHzKijbjv73sECJPEtZNooZvAgPwNOSh6pmc0UE77Xvg-GnJxSzo9gU73tjhEyUH5upH7pNB8K3dXCmWq6CyXcLnCuiZKBip4boB0x4gvHx/s640/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;"/></a>The former France defender has renewed his deal with the Ligue 1 leaders, extending his stay until 2018Paris Saint-Germain coach Laurent Blanc has signed a two-year contract extension, the French champions have confirmed. 
 
PSG made the announcement on Thursday, with Blanc - the club's most decorated coach - set to stay in the capital until June 2018, with Goalpreviously reporting that the club were close to agreeing a deal, despite interest from Jose Mourinho. 
 
It is just reward for Blanc, who has guided PSG to back-to-back Ligue 1 titles following his appointment in 2013. 
 
As well as league glory, Blanc has hoisted aloft the Coupe de France (2015), Coupes de la Ligue (2014, 2015) and Trophees des Champions (2013, 2014, 2015) at the Parc des Princes. 
 
And the 50-year-old is on track to add his trophy collection, with PSG 24 points clear atop Ligue 1 after 25 matches. 
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2t7FAcXTwdMIhH2F3UBjfWXWl6ewGfi9wHJ7r17hSAl9jn2geTqeLY0zehdia7bNNeQCPysoNBl_qjg4J447Wynr1ngHtU5mavz8MNLtVL_coIbwBzlGLEkuVJ28y_yaQ3-HhXfBrZZ9p/s2560/%25255BUNSET%25255D.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2t7FAcXTwdMIhH2F3UBjfWXWl6ewGfi9wHJ7r17hSAl9jn2geTqeLY0zehdia7bNNeQCPysoNBl_qjg4J447Wynr1ngHtU5mavz8MNLtVL_coIbwBzlGLEkuVJ28y_yaQ3-HhXfBrZZ9p/s640/%25255BUNSET%25255D.png" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;"/></a> 
"I would like to thank the club for the faith that has been put in me," Blanc said via the club's official website. 
 
"Since the beginning, I have felt honoured to work for such an ambitious club and it is extremely satisfying to coach such talented players. 
 
"I hope that I can continue make Paris Saint-Germain a brilliant and respected ambassador of French football." 
 
 
PSG continue to challenge on all front this season after advancing to the Coupe de France quarter-finals on Wednesday. 
 
The capital club are also set to contest April's Coupe de la Ligue final against Lille, while Chelsea loom in the last-16 of the Champions League next week. 
 
PSG chairman and chief executive Nasser Al-Khelaifi added: "I am extremely proud and happy to see Laurent Blanc continue his association with our club. 
 
"Over the past three years, our coach and his staff are writing with their team a glorious page of the club's history, winning trophies and setting records. All conditions are clearly there to opt for stability. 
 
"I always trusted him as well as believed in his ability to keep taking our team higher each season, while at the same time having them play a beautiful style of football that our fans, and football fans in general, really enjoy." 
 
 
 
Goal.com</div>

Sports; Blanc extends PSG contract

The former France defender has renewed his deal with the Ligue 1 leaders, extending his stay until 2018Paris Saint-Germain coach Laurent Bla...

Adam Johnson pleads guilty to sexual activity with 15-year-old girl

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtuVUztUx962K3dMYB4TMNIopVsrENrbVDXWrQoAt5uXLrp2fMTETbtoXLWapWF51UmbPl2Jgg1S9UEN_D7vzsXt0RhD7Z3-7H4_UBDR6v7lb9fcanmPbwt1XiqVQ3qfK1FENRGPVMUtjl/s2560/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtuVUztUx962K3dMYB4TMNIopVsrENrbVDXWrQoAt5uXLrp2fMTETbtoXLWapWF51UmbPl2Jgg1S9UEN_D7vzsXt0RhD7Z3-7H4_UBDR6v7lb9fcanmPbwt1XiqVQ3qfK1FENRGPVMUtjl/s640/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;"/></a>The Sunderland midfielder has pleaded guilty to the charges but has denied two counts of sexual activity with a girl under the age of 16. Sunderland winger Adam Johnson pleaded guilty to one count of sexual activity with a child and one count of grooming at Bradford Crown Court on Wednesday. 
 
The 28-year-old appeared in court on the first day of his trial into allegations of child sex charges relating to incidents between December 2014 and February of last year. 
 
England international Johnson denies two further charges of sexual activity with a girl under the age of 16. 
 
The Sunderland-born midfielder, who has 12 England caps to his name, moved to the Stadium of Light from Manchester City in 2012 and was initially suspended by the Black Cats following his arrest and subsequent bail in March. 
 
Having seen his bail extended by Durham Police, Johnson was cleared to return to training later that month and has since remained in the first-team picture. 
 
Johnson was on the scoresheet at the weekend in Sunderland's 2-2 draw against Liverpool at Anfield.</div>

Adam Johnson pleads guilty to sexual activity with 15-year-old girl

The Sunderland midfielder has pleaded guilty to the charges but has denied two counts of sexual activity with a girl under the age of 16. Su...

Lagos State To Host Joseph Yobo Testimonial.

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZB8HqVBr3rcU-45nveObLq7tOdzyHUVaY46KsN5fPhQts7yzBcYKgpyfoyFnRw3lCscbOg5KBwSka4ZrSSa8_VqBxX3MI5JeKWRKdpoCfJ7ZYDekBpYxiHYMjQfLV71OJfollT02mle1S/s2560/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZB8HqVBr3rcU-45nveObLq7tOdzyHUVaY46KsN5fPhQts7yzBcYKgpyfoyFnRw3lCscbOg5KBwSka4ZrSSa8_VqBxX3MI5JeKWRKdpoCfJ7ZYDekBpYxiHYMjQfLV71OJfollT02mle1S/s640/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;"/></a>The former Super Eagles captain will be feted by the state government as part of plans to turn the metropolis into a venue for high quality sport and entertainment 
The Lagos State Government is set to host a befitting testimonial for former Nigeria captain Joseph Yobo where it expects players like Samuel Eto’o, Didier Drogba, and a host of other global names to participate, Goal has learnt. 
 
Though the date has not been announced, the Yobo testimonial will be a celebration of the career of the former defender who was the first to reach a century of caps for the Nigeria senior national team, according to Mr Adeboye Anthony Adeyinka, Senior Special Assistant on Sports to the Lagos State Governor. 
 
After a successful staging of the Lagos Marathon last weekend, the Lagos State Government is starting to look at sports as a veritable way to market the metropolis, and what bigger way than football and Yobo? 
 
“The match will be played in Lagos but it will not be a Lagos thing alone because Yobo played for Nigeria so it will also be a Federation event,” Adeyinka told Goal. 
 
The 35-year-old had a distinguished career which took him to several countries and clubs. He played in Belgium, France, England and Turkey with varying degrees of success. 
 
Yobo led the Super Eagles to victory at the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations before calling time on his international career after Nigeria’s second round elimination by France at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. 
 
“When he was playing in Nigeria, he was a respected person. When he played abroad he was never red-carded in any match. All his coaches will testify to what I have said and they will be invited to the testimonial,” said Adeyinka. 
 
 
 
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq8nBN1Alze_rXZEeFm-O3ykoY-Qm5x4ImhQ_QozBfCg3M-CDVK-oyUi3vMCidgM2G79CB_lGzpHyIOCrhT3vm02ineuWhsCmeWa4c0E43nn47SAHonrv7nlPVcFee5cw2P1l5odS6VjXU/s2560/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq8nBN1Alze_rXZEeFm-O3ykoY-Qm5x4ImhQ_QozBfCg3M-CDVK-oyUi3vMCidgM2G79CB_lGzpHyIOCrhT3vm02ineuWhsCmeWa4c0E43nn47SAHonrv7nlPVcFee5cw2P1l5odS6VjXU/s640/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;"/></a> 
Mr Adeboye Anthony Adeyinka 
 
Apart from the high profile Yobo match, Lagos will also return to domestic football relevance when the new Nigeria Professional Football League season starts on February 21 due to the promotion of two clubs into the top flight. 
 
Privately-run MFM FC and Ikorodu United have been given the use of Agege Stadium and Onikan Stadium as home grounds respectively by the government. 
 
Adeyinka believes their promotion is a result of the importance that the government places in football development and a justification of its policy not to get involved in the running of clubs unlike what obtains in many other states.</div>

Lagos State To Host Joseph Yobo Testimonial.

The former Super Eagles captain will be feted by the state government as part of plans to turn the metropolis into a venue for high quality ...

Terry may get new deal at Chelsea after Zouma’s injury

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOZt6bgo-9vGt1tj3VmOi-NjoSWx6nbjTS7sLWdEyS0hoWN8vD2-en_HlZ_xot17sIk1tVIvdYi_9HCJGZ7XpMdP9UGEtaj-yJE_W42RBG80AMByo-99NsO2VpHckcbnYqCGqJECPw0zk6/s2560/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOZt6bgo-9vGt1tj3VmOi-NjoSWx6nbjTS7sLWdEyS0hoWN8vD2-en_HlZ_xot17sIk1tVIvdYi_9HCJGZ7XpMdP9UGEtaj-yJE_W42RBG80AMByo-99NsO2VpHckcbnYqCGqJECPw0zk6/s640/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;"/></a>John Terry 
 
 
John Terry may be offered a new deal at Chelsea after Kurt Zouma’s terrible injury. 
 
The France centre back has been ruled out for six months after his ACL ligament injury in Chelsea’s 1-1 draw with Manchester United, leaving the Blues to reconsider Terry’s contract situation. 
 
According to The Times, this could only mean a reprieve for Terry as the London club’s only centre-backs and captain. 
 
With at least one defensive signing surely needed in the summer anyway, it could be vital for the Stamford Bridge outfit that they now keep their skipper at the club, Metro news has said.</div>

Terry may get new deal at Chelsea after Zouma’s injury

John Terry John Terry may be offered a new deal at Chelsea after Kurt Zouma’s terrible injury. The France centre back has been ruled o...

Sports; Enyimba in the race to sign Usman Mohammed for the 2016 season

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp1A_FK7LMbo94cx7IcyVUYb098-jHPdbv9JtmG15DCBU1j3O-4SRnEfhkT-rJq7xITwdDcjkIbjZWGMbbvmeASqBuPS73kZDkFLpItdKwjTw2odIhGOyWjR4rX_06IusipFMwII2QTAZb/s2560/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp1A_FK7LMbo94cx7IcyVUYb098-jHPdbv9JtmG15DCBU1j3O-4SRnEfhkT-rJq7xITwdDcjkIbjZWGMbbvmeASqBuPS73kZDkFLpItdKwjTw2odIhGOyWjR4rX_06IusipFMwII2QTAZb/s640/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;"/></a>The People's Elephants are hoping they can complete a deal for Nigeria midfielder Usman Mohammed ahead of the new season 
Nigerian champions Enyimba are keen on securing the services of Nigeria midfielder Usman Mohammed, club sources have informed Goal. 
 
The People’s Elephants have signed over ten players already, as they target a treble in the 2016 season, which will see them compete in the Nigeria Professional Football League, the Federation’s Cup and the Caf Champions League. 
 
Goal have been told that Enyimba has been speaking with the player’s representatives as well as FC Taraba, where he played last season but it is understood the midfielder is keen on a move abroad. 
 
Usman featured for the Nigeria U23s as they won the Caf U23 Africa Cup of Nations last December and was also a member of the Super Eagles team that played at the CHAN tournament in Rwanda. 
 
He has been courted by several European clubs but hasn’t signed with any of them yet and with the European transfer window shut, Enyimba are hoping it will count in their favour. 
 
The seven-time Nigerian champions could however go for a loan deal if they cannot get him on a permanent basis.</div>

Sports; Enyimba in the race to sign Usman Mohammed for the 2016 season

The People's Elephants are hoping they can complete a deal for Nigeria midfielder Usman Mohammed ahead of the new season Nigerian champ...

Sports; Pep Guardiola named as next Manchester City Coach

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEher-m5KNapPyYiCt5KHfjh6ZPUEl_3NYXWLQtCgPtkFWC0m7ptlNbtReZlWchOxISRRLyJup6RWrt8JdAygTnWK4RF90XbM9MSPDZ12zM_7ps7A7pwzXrO6BfQ50PjXWqnj2lgD7_TbI-Y/s2560/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEher-m5KNapPyYiCt5KHfjh6ZPUEl_3NYXWLQtCgPtkFWC0m7ptlNbtReZlWchOxISRRLyJup6RWrt8JdAygTnWK4RF90XbM9MSPDZ12zM_7ps7A7pwzXrO6BfQ50PjXWqnj2lgD7_TbI-Y/s640/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;"/></a>Spaniard Coach, Pep Guardiola, will be the new manager at Manchester City as from the 2016 – 17 season, on a three-year deal, the club has confirmed. 
 
Guardiola, who earlier confirmed he will be leaving German giants, Bayern Munich, had been a subject of a lot of speculation with both Manchester United and Chelsea rumoured to be in his pursuit. 
However, on the transfer deadline day, City has confirmed that the coach will be replacing Manuel Pelegrini and the Citizens’ helm. 
In a statement on the club’s website, City confirmed that the current manager is well appraised of the development and is in support of the communication being made but is focused on achieving his targets with the team in the current term. 
 
“Manchester City can confirm that in recent weeks it has commenced and finalized contractual negotiations with Pep Guardiola to become MCFC Head Coach for the 2016/17 EPL season onwards. 
“The contract is for three years. These negotiations were a re-commencement of discussions that were curtailed in 2012. 
“Out of respect for Manuel Pellegrini and the players, the Club wishes to make its decision public to remove the unnecessary burden of speculation. 
 
 
“Manuel, who is fully supportive of the decision to make this communication, is entirely focused on achieving his targets for the season ahead and retains the respect and commitment of all involved with the leadership of the Club,” the club statement read. 
It remains to be seen how Nigerian youngster, Kelechi Iheanacho, who blossomed under Pellegrini will fare under the new incoming Manager.</div>

Sports; Pep Guardiola named as next Manchester City Coach

Spaniard Coach, Pep Guardiola, will be the new manager at Manchester City as from the 2016 – 17 season, on a three-year deal, the club has c...

With focus, Man City can beat anyone’

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCWO2g7HhWUVd_GhQ2mqy_hEmRq3aH_NnAMiGz0-uR398eB7HUZAkh_Z8A6HUSBK7KRrCrIZAYk2CIpVTV-nYWc5O06Ck7h0lAt5Dee34n6ZJ4MQ_H-UJxsBN7O8cJ0hNtjYPNxZmNILM_/s2560/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCWO2g7HhWUVd_GhQ2mqy_hEmRq3aH_NnAMiGz0-uR398eB7HUZAkh_Z8A6HUSBK7KRrCrIZAYk2CIpVTV-nYWc5O06Ck7h0lAt5Dee34n6ZJ4MQ_H-UJxsBN7O8cJ0hNtjYPNxZmNILM_/s640/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;"/></a>Manchester City left back Gael Clichy says his team can beat anyone in the world if they maintain their focus. 
 
Manuel Pellegrini's men were undefeated in January apart from a League Cup semifinal first leg defeat that they managed to overturn. 
 
But they had to come back from behind twice to salvage a draw at West Ham in the Premier League a week ago, and have already lost five league matches this season, including a defeat at mid-table Stoke City and a 4-1 home thumping by Liverpool. 
 
City now take on Sunderland, struggling near the foot of the table, in the league on Tuesday. 
 
"We know we can play against any team and win against any team - it's just a matter of being focused from the first to the last minute," Clichy told the club's website ( www.mcfc.co.uk ). 
 
"Three points against Sunderland would be just as important, if not more important, than a win against a top four team." 
 
City have a gruelling schedule in February, with league matches against fellow title contenders Leicester and Spurs, the first leg of their last 16 Champions League tie against Dynamo Kyiv, and the League Cup final. 
 
"Many people say February is when the life of a top player starts," said the France international. "We can go on to play as we have been doing over the last few games. At the end of May, hopefully, we will look back on what has been a great season."</div>

With focus, Man City can beat anyone’

Manchester City left back Gael Clichy says his team can beat anyone in the world if they maintain their focus. Manuel Pellegrini's men...

Sports; Fifa commends Manchester City’s hat-trick hero Iheanacho

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTQIOMhzsBoL2JJaSo2MgqiFaNUcx7dcmKNifrLc9IfV57E34yo95VwyuMNZuRMFIf3C2qLfJx_6vUg7RaQ6uWsp4GV77DoGJrjLTqF2l14DQ11_-h0Hl7XFNLrI_xXFIK-ukoelAiI9ne/s2560/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTQIOMhzsBoL2JJaSo2MgqiFaNUcx7dcmKNifrLc9IfV57E34yo95VwyuMNZuRMFIf3C2qLfJx_6vUg7RaQ6uWsp4GV77DoGJrjLTqF2l14DQ11_-h0Hl7XFNLrI_xXFIK-ukoelAiI9ne/s640/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;"/></a>The world football ruling body has lauded the Citizen’s whiz for his treble which tore apart Remi Garde’s side in Saturday’s FA Cup game Kelechi Iheanacho’s awe-inspiring performance against Aston Villa on Saturday has been applauded by the Federation of International Football Association. 
The 19-year-old got his first for Manuel Pellegrini's men as they tore apart the Villans 4-0 at the Villa Park to reach the FA Cup fifth round. 
 
Iheancho, who was named the Most Valuable Player at the 2013 Fifa U17 World Cup, began the exploit after four minutes with a close range finish. 
 
He added his second from the penalty spot after Raheem Sterling was brought down by Leandro Bacuna before sliding home his third on the counter in the second half. 
 
And the world football governing body through their Twitter handle acknowledged the Super Eagles’ star performance against Remi Garde’s men. 
 
"U-17 World Cup star in 2013 Hat-trick hero in the FA Cup yesterday congrats, Kelechi Iheanacho,” Fifa tweeted. 
 
 
 <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwsICK5PRucTioHykAPq0G0JtEyq4EyBXaS12j4tVrdcWlsgazgU5E5mir-d7OcqjrapYXfXdSrL1lDgqUtf2E8mb3L7TjElvE1EB9blqy5tRKlWM4CMQ9_Z5BOwvSS7-cTjj37qIiCgIi/s2560/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwsICK5PRucTioHykAPq0G0JtEyq4EyBXaS12j4tVrdcWlsgazgU5E5mir-d7OcqjrapYXfXdSrL1lDgqUtf2E8mb3L7TjElvE1EB9blqy5tRKlWM4CMQ9_Z5BOwvSS7-cTjj37qIiCgIi/s640/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;"/></a> 
 
The victory kept Manchester City’s hopes of a quadruple alive having booked a place in the final of the English League Cup at the expense of Everton. 
 
 
Goal.com</div>

Sports; Fifa commends Manchester City’s hat-trick hero Iheanacho

The world football ruling body has lauded the Citizen’s whiz for his treble which tore apart Remi Garde’s side in Saturday’s FA Cup game Kel...

You can't win with kids anymore! - Wenger.

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXZyld40vM3_zzRoUTw_W37MzPZ2fWkgsi86UeQSeXaSvV80uQQZVtoPM_GFxZRK-dcaPn4shfKRCg3zFFPXI71HgTgFS5C226SeroV3aiPJPf6iVZv47wSpHfbVrSzx_Zf0qbZYLwXzzP/s2560/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXZyld40vM3_zzRoUTw_W37MzPZ2fWkgsi86UeQSeXaSvV80uQQZVtoPM_GFxZRK-dcaPn4shfKRCg3zFFPXI71HgTgFS5C226SeroV3aiPJPf6iVZv47wSpHfbVrSzx_Zf0qbZYLwXzzP/s640/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;"/></a>The Gunners boss intends to pick an experienced side in the FA Cup clash against Burnley following their League Cup defeat at the hands of Sheffield Wednesday in October arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has suggested that Premier League teams can no longer expect to progress in the FA Cup by playing youth-team players against Championship sides. 
 
The Gunners boss says he will name an experienced team for the Gunner's fourth-round clash against Burnley on Saturday as he is keen not to lose a second consecutive game following defeat to Chelsea. 
 
Wenger has masterminded back-to-back FA Cup wins over the past two seasons, most recently triumphing over Aston Villa in May, but suffered a comprehensive 3-0 defeat to Sheffield Wednesday in the League Cup in October. 
 
"I will play quite an experienced team," he told reporters. "First of all, we lost last Sunday against Chelsea and it is important not to drop our confidence level too much. 
 
 
"We have learnt something this season, we went to Sheffield Wednesday in the League Cup and got quite a severe defeat," he added. "We have to show we have learnt from that. 
 
"Second, we want to do well in the FA Cup and you don’t want to miss an opportunity when you play at home against a Championship team and you don’t win with kids any more unfortunately against the Championship teams. That’s it." 
 
 
Source; Goal.com</div>

You can't win with kids anymore! - Wenger.

The Gunners boss intends to pick an experienced side in the FA Cup clash against Burnley following their League Cup defeat at the hands of S...

Sports; CHELSEA SPENDS £214M IN TRANSFER WINDOW.

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGrtlMWh1aeD7_zuLkUcECFkc4BsWiJPNsplMK_ferRzEN6QIvhyy9x2aM5SBo-JbaKnkARyVUjKGjQAhG4z14PV1Qd6XsfHFOe2ESoI1aGPoUDbomsKyFvFrIhECcdAv6nyRkskd0lurB/s2560/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGrtlMWh1aeD7_zuLkUcECFkc4BsWiJPNsplMK_ferRzEN6QIvhyy9x2aM5SBo-JbaKnkARyVUjKGjQAhG4z14PV1Qd6XsfHFOe2ESoI1aGPoUDbomsKyFvFrIhECcdAv6nyRkskd0lurB/s640/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;"/></a> 
Arsene Wenger thinks the January transfer window is unfair and perhaps that partly explains why Arsenal have spent a third as much as Chelsea since it was introduced in 2003. 
 
There is also the fact that Chelsea splash the cash, with ‘Fernando Torres’ and ‘£50million flop’ rarely far away from each other after the Spain striker became the priciest ever purchase in this window five years ago. 
 
It is signings like that which put Chelsea top with their £214.2m total, followed by three other clubs that have topped a ton in Manchester City (£131.1m), Liverpool (£120.1m) and Tottenham Hotspur (£105.7m). 
 
Then come Manchester United (£87.2m) and, bringing up the rear for the Barclays Premier League’s big six, Arsenal (£68.9m). 
 
Their manager is not a fan of the winter window and even called for it to be abandoned previously. ‘I think it should be completely cut out,’ Wenger said in January 2013. ‘Or limited to two players.’ 
 
Since he couldn’t beat them, he joined them. Despite Wenger’s denouncement, Arsenal are sixth in the list as the richest clubs dominate the top-end of the table. 
 
This study by Sportsmail included trawling through every transfer made during the mid-season transfer window in the last 13 years but not including the current one, going by the latest figures on file for each player.</div>

Sports; CHELSEA SPENDS £214M IN TRANSFER WINDOW.

Arsene Wenger thinks the January transfer window is unfair and perhaps that partly explains why Arsenal have spent a third as much as Chel...

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