Antonio Conte: Man City defeat is a disappointment

Chelsea suffered their second home defeat in the league when they fell
0-1 to Manchester City at Stamford Bridge in the last kick off on
Saturday.

The defeat came on the heels of the excellent Champions League win
over Atletico Madrid in midweek.

However, the Blues cause was not helped by the injury picked up by
Alvaro Morata in the first half. As the Premier League champions ended
up being second best throughout.

Speaking after the match, Antonio Conte bemoaned Morata's injury and
asserted that it was a disappointing day for Chelsea

"For sure there is a disappointment for the result but I think when
two great teams play these games anything can happen. I must be
pleased with the commitment of my players, because we gave
everything."

Asked about Alvaro Morata's injury, he said

"When you lose this type of player it is not simple. When you play
three massive games in only seven games you must consider this, it can
happen a muscular problem, but I do not think it is serious. Alvaro
stopped before it became a serious injury."

The decision to replace Morata with Willian came as a surprise to
many, as the Brazilian did not exactly set the match alight. However,
Conte said it was a technical decision.

"It was a technical decision, also to try and exploit the space. It
was a simple tactical decision. Manchester City, we know very well
they are a good team. They were a good team last season."

Jose Mourinho: I have always trusted Marouane Fellaini

Jose Mourinho has heaped praise on two goal hero Marouane Felliani.

The 29 year old Belgian international got a brace as Manchester United
got a comfortable 4-0 win over a hapless Crystal Palace side at Old
Trafford.

The Belgian has been maligned by sections of Manchester United fans
since he was signed by David Moyes four years ago. But with three
Premier League goals this season, he is gradually gaining the
confidence of Manchester United faithful. But Mourinho has now
confirmed that his confidence in the Belgian has never waivered.

He was effusive in his praise for Fellaini when he spoke to the BBC
after the match.

"I always trusted Marouane since day one and try to give him
confidence and show him how useful he is for the team," He began

Then he continued

"Sometimes we like players others don't like. Some players perform
better with some of us [managers] than with others and I have examples
of players that didn't perform well for me and then performed well for
other managers.

"I think Marouane has important qualities and I try to use them
depending on the situation and what they team needs. He plays with me
as a defensive midfielder, as a second striker, as one of two
midfielders. He is a team player. A great character. We have a good
relationship and things are going really well between us.

"I think only a strong character could resist the difficulties here
because he had some difficult times when people didn't recognise his
qualities, when other managers didn't like so much the qualities he
has. He had to be a strong character. He is a fighter, a guy with lots
of pride and I am really pleased I helped him reach this level and
change the perception the fans have now. I am really happy for him."

Chelsea vs Man City Teams: Moses dropped, Christensen, Hazard and Rudiger starts

Premier League Champions Chelsea host Manchester City in the biggest
match of the weekend.

Antonio Conte hands a first Premier League start to Eden Hazard,
Victor Moses drop out, David Luiz continues his suspension with
Rudiger and Christensen coming in.

Full Teams

Chelsea:

Courtois, Rudiger, Christensen, Cahill, Azpilicueta, Kante, Bakayoko,
Fabregas, Alonso, Hazard, Morata.

Subs: Caballero, Pedro, Moses, Kenedy, Zappacosta, Willian, Batshuayi.

Man City:

Ederson, Walker, Stones, Otamendi, Delph, De Bruyne, Fernandinho,
Silva, Sane, Gabriel Jesus, Sterling.

Subs: Bravo, Danilo, Gundogan, Mangala, Bernardo Silva, Alexander
Zinchenko, Toure.

Man United vs Crystal Palace Teams: Rashford and Fellaini starts

Manchester United look to end the month of September on a high as they
host Crystal Palace at Old Trafford. A win would see them go top.

Jose Mourinho has named a strong side with Fellaini passed fit about
being a doubt for the game. While Rashford also start.

Full Teams

Manchester United:

De Gea, Valencia, Jones, Smalling, Young, Matic, Fellaini, Mata,
Mkhitaryan, Rashford, Lukaku

Subs: Bailly, Martial, Lingard, Blind, Romero, Herrera, Darmian

Crystal Palace:

Hennessey, Ward, Sakho, Delaney, Van Aanholt, Townsend, Milivojevic,
Cabaye, Schlupp, Puncheon, Sako

Subs: Speroni, Lee Chung-yong, McArthur, Ladapo, Mutch, Kelly, Riedewald

Arsenal injury update: Ozil ruled out of Brighton game, Koscielny a doubt

Arsene Wenger spoke to the club's website to give an update of his
squad ahead of Sunday's Premier League match against Brighton.

Mesut Ozil will miss the game against Brighton on Sunday with an
unspecified injury, while Laurent Koscielny is a doubt for the match
with an Achilles problem. But should be fit enough to feature.

Alex Iwobi might be available again after missing the last two games
with a thigh injury.

These were Wenger's words to Arsenal.com

"Mesut Ozil will not be available for Sunday. Very short-term. He is
not far, but he is not enough for Sunday.

"Alex Iwobi might be available for Sunday, of course Coquelin and
Welbeck are not available. We have a doubt about Laurent Koscielny
unfortunately and he will have a test tomorrow. It's an achilles
problem, it's ongoing. I think everybody else should be available.
Sead Kolasinac had some problems, but he is available. That's
basically it."

The Brighton game on Sunday would complete a run of three matches in
six days for Arsenal following Monday's and Thurday's matches against
West Brom and BATE Borisov.

Man City left back Benjamin Mendy out until April 2018 with ACL injury

Manchester City left back Benjamin Mendy has been ruled out until
April 2018 following an anterior cruciate injury.

Pep Guardiola confirmed this during his press conference on Friday.

"Benjamin Mendy will be operated on this afternoon in Barcelona and
will be out until the time of the semi-final of UCL. [ Uefa Champions
League]

The France international was a £52m signing from Monaco in the summer,
an outlay that made him the world's most expensive defender.

On the possibility of finding a short term replacement for him,
Guardiola had this to say.

"In the way Benjamin Mendy plays, his energy towards goal, we cannot
replace him.

"We have to play a different way. You cannot replace him around the world."

Meanwhile, Sergio Aguero is expected to be out for a considerable
amount of time after he suffered a broken rib following a car accident
while he was driving in the Netherlands on Thursday.

The Catalan confirmed this earlier today.

"Aguero has had an accident in Amsterdam and he will be back after
that. I am not a doctor. He will come back and recover as soon as
possible.

"I have not yet spoken with Aguero. I have been preparing training. I
will speak to him today. First impression is he has broken his rib.

"Day off is to be happy. I am a trainer who doesn't want to train
every day because they need to rest, mentally and physically.

Both players would be absent for the trip to Stamford Bridge on Saturday.

Man City Benjamin Mendy out until April 2018 with ACL injury

Manchester City left back Benjamin Mendy has been ruled out until
April 2018 following an anterior cruciate injury.

Pep Guardiola confirmed this during his press conference on Friday.

"Benjamin Mendy will be operated on this afternoon in Barcelona and
will be out until the time of the semi-final of UCL. [ Uefa Champions
League]

The France international was a £52m signing from Monaco in the summer,
an outlay that made him the world's most expensive defender.

On the possibility of finding a short term replacement for him,
Guardiola had this to say.

"In the way Benjamin Mendy plays, his energy towards goal, we cannot
replace him.

"We have to play a different way. You cannot replace him around the world."

Meanwhile, Sergio Aguero is expected to be out for a considerable
amount of time after he suffered a broken rib following a car accident
while he was driving in the Netherlands on Thursday.

The Catalan confirmed this earlier today.

"Aguero has had an accident in Amsterdam and he will be back after
that. I am not a doctor. He will come back and recover as soon as
possible.

"I have not yet spoken with Aguero. I have been preparing training. I
will speak to him today. First impression is he has broken his rib.

"Day off is to be happy. I am a trainer who doesn't want to train
every day because they need to rest, mentally and physically.

Both players would be absent for the trip to Stamford Bridge on Saturday.

Klopp on Liverpool's profligacy: 'I can't shoot from the bench'

Liverpool's profligacy in front of goal saw them come away with just a
draw against Spartak Moscow in their Champions League match on
Tuesday.

The same scenario played out in their opening match against Sevilla. A
situation that has seen them with just two points from two matches.

Jurgen Klopp was asked about his player's inability to be clinical in
front of goal. Having said that creating those chances was more
important, he then gave away a line that is typical of his way of
expressing his opinion on issues bordering on the club.

He bared his mind in his press conference on Friday.

"I can't make us more clinical. There isn't one word I can say. You
just have to keep going and do it again and again.

"It makes no sense to criticise finishing, it's about creating. I
can't shoot from the bench.

"I have no problem with criticism, I only have a problem if people
think we can't solve problems. We know where we have to do better.

"I'm not going to say 'Oh my God, these teams are so good and I must
get a season ticket for Man United."

Liverpool play Newcastle united at St. James Park this weekend.

Jose Mourinho says Paul Pogba's injury is 'long term'

Jose Mourinho has described the injury picked up by Paul Pogba early
this month as long term.

The France international suffered a hamstring against Basel in the
Champions League. At the time. It was reported that he could be out
for up to six weeks.

Now the Portuguese who has declined to put a time scale on Pogba's
absence, says the injury is long term.

He gave this assessment when he had his weekly press conference on
Friday, where he also gave an update of other players.

"Michael Carrick and Phil Jones are out, they were out and tomorrow
some will be out.

"From all the injuries we had I hope we can have some available tomorrow.

"Paul Pogba's injured he cannot play tomorrow and his injury I cannot
have hope like Jones or Valencia who I can see in training and hope
for positive answer.

"So don't speak about long term injury – Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Paul
Pogba, Marcus Rojo - I don't speak about them."

Antonio Conte: David Luiz a big loss for Man City game

Ahead of Chelsea's match with Manchester City on Saturday at Stamford
Bridge, Antonio Conte spoke to the media this Friday.

He gave an update of his squad ahead of what is the biggest match of
the weekend in the English Premier League. And inevitably, he spoke of
the importance of David Luiz who would miss the game as he serves the
second of his three match ban after the red card he picked up against
Arsenal.

"David Luiz is an important player and a big loss, but Andreas
Christensen is playing well and with good maturity,"

"David Luiz is not a player who gets many red cards and he normally
has discipline."

Andreas Christensen played in the middle of Chelsea's three man back
line against Stoke last weekend. Where he was impressive in the 4-0
win.

Antonio Conte would be pinning his hope on him to reproduce another
assured performance against the best attacking team in the league.

Unfair to use Arsene Wenger as a contrast when a big club sacks a manager

Bayern Munich parted ways with Carlo Ancelotti on Thursday following
the club's 3-0 loss to PSG in match day two of the Champions League on
Wednesday.

The match followed the Bavarians 2-2 draw with Wolfsburg on Saturday
which saw them throw away a two goal lead at the Allianz Arena.

The departure of the Italian followed what has been an indifferent
start to the season where there has been various reports of player
unrest.

The Italian's last line up as Bayern Munich manager saw him leave key
spine of the team in Arjen Robben, Franck Ribery, Mat Hummels and
Jerome Boeteng on the bench. This was a decision that inevitably set
the team for a result that didn't end well in their favour.

So fifteen months into what was a three year contract, Ancelotti was
sacked. The third time he would be losing his job in his second season
at a club after suffering the same fate at Chelsea and Real Madrid.

Following news of his sack, Arsenal manager, Arsene Wenger was used by
several persons as a contrasting example of a manager who has endured
bad spells for years, but he has kept his job as manager, and one who
had two unsavoury result has been shown the door just five months
after winning the league.

Piers Morgan

@ piersmorgan

Ancelotti fired by ruthless Bayern 5 months after winning League &
after beating Arsenal 10-2 in last season's CL. Wenger...continues.

6:36 AM - 28 Sep 2017

Bayern mania

@ Bayern_mania

Carlo Ancelotti's Bayern won 10-2 vs Arsenal, after 5 months Ancelotti
has sacked but Arsene Wenger is still Arsenal's coach! Wow

12:58 PM - 28 Sep 2017

In spite of the fact that such comparison was inevitable, it is unfair
on the Frenchman for such to come up anytime a big club wields the big
stick.

First, Bayern Munich and Arsenal are two different clubs that operate
in a different landscape. The history of both clubs have to be
considered before using them as a barometer with which to measure the
way both react to a bad spell.

The Bavarians see themselves as a club who should be competing at the
top echelon of the European game and the result under Ancelotti didn't
reflect that, and even their domestic invincibility had lost it luster
despite another league win last season.

This is a club whose history is steeped in winning the bungesliga
always and as well as rubbing shoulders with other top clubs in Europe
with five European Cup to show for that.

In essence, they know what they want as the structure is in place for
them to achieve their aims. And when the club's hierarchy feel
standards have fallen as in the case of Ancelotti, they acted
decisively.

However, for Arsenal, the question is does Arsenal match ambition with
reality? Arsene Wenger didn't employ himself. His longevity at the
club is tied to the club's majority shareholder in Stan Kroenke. You
have to ask by what standard he uses to measure his manager's success?

It is on him to take the bull by the horn by charting a new course for
the club. But, he has been beholding to the Frenchman despite repeated
failures. His contract extension in the summer held much to the
support of Stan Kroenke as much of the board were slipt in their
support of Wenger. But seeing that members of the board are there on
the goodwill of the majority shareholder, he is essentially the board
itself.

When a big club sacks a manager, fingers should go to Stan Kroenke
when comparing ambition and the drive to attain it. Every position a
person holds is at the behest of the person that puts him there. If
that same person is no longer satisfied with the job you are doing, he
can severe that relationship. But here is a club owner, whose own
scale of measuring how a manager is faring is different from what the
club's fans scale is.

He is satisfied with what the Frenchman is doing, and so long as he
keeps being satisfied, Arsene Wenger would remain on the job.

While the hunt continues for the next big manager to be sacked, he
would still be there until he chooses to say he has had enough of it.

Wenger praying Jack Wilshere stays fit

Arsene Wenger is hoping Jack Wilshere stays fit. While assessing his
performance in Arsenal's 4-2 win ove BATE Borisov.

The 25 year old was in his element as he reminded onlookers of his
quality which he has been prevented from showcasing frequently.
because of injuries.

He completed only his second 90 minutes in an Arsenal shirt since
September, 2014. And Wenger is hoping he remains fit for his talent to
flourish.

"He had an outstanding first half and he did fight until the end," The
Frenchman said after the match.

. "I think he is on a good way back to his best. He has shown that tonight.

"He is at an age where a player normally gets to the best of his
career," he said. He is on the way up and he has only been stopped by
a series of injuries."

"Hopefully, I just pray that he is not hampered anymore by any
problems and then we will see him getting stronger and stronger.

"He has shown again tonight that he has not lost his football."

Bate Borisov vs Arsenal: Nelson, Willock and Maitland-Niles starts

Arsenal are in Belarus for Match day two of the Europa League where
they trade tackles with BATE Borisov. Arsene Wenger has named a side
with a mixture of experience and youth for the match.

Full Teams

BATE Borisov:

Scherbitski, Gaidichik, Volodko, Ivanic, Rios, Milunovic, Rodionov,
Dragun, Stasevich, Polyakov, Gordeichuk



Arsenal:

Ospina, Mustafi, Mertesacker, Holding, Nelson, Willock, Elneny,
Maitland-Niles, Wilshere, Walcott, Giroud

Subs: Macey, McGuane, Dragomir, Gilmour, Akpom, Nketiah, Dasilva

CSKA Moscow vs Man United Teams: Martial and Herrera starts

Jose Mourinho hands a start to Martial and Herrera with injuries to
key midfielders.

Full Teams


CSKA:

Akinfeev, Vasin, V Berezutski, Ignashevich, Wernbloom, Fernandez,
Dzagoev, Golovin, Schennikov, Chalov, Vitinho.

Man Utd:

De Gea, Young, Lindelof, Bailly, Smalling, Blind, Matic, Herrera,
Mkhitaryan, Mata, Martial, Lukaku.

Atletico Madrid vs Chelsea teams: Hazard starts

Chelsea are in Madrid to face Atletico Madrid in match day two of the
Champions League. Antonio Conte recalls Gary Cahill and David Luiz to
the defence. While Eden Hazard starts for the first time this season.

Full Teams.

Atletico Madrid:

Oblak, Juanfran, Lucas, Godin, Luis, Koke, Thomas, Saul, Carrasco,
Correa, Griezmann

Subs:Moya, torres, Gabi, Savic, Vietto, Gaitan, Gimenez

Chelsea:

Courtois, Apzilicueta, Cahill, Luiz; Moses, Kante, Bakayoko, Alonso;
Hazard, Fabregas; Morata

Subs: Caballero, Rudiger, Pedro, Zappacosta, Willian, Batshuayi, Christensen

WCQ: Nigeria's Super Eagles squad for Zambia showdown

The 23 man list for the all important World Cup qualifier against
Zambia has been released by Nigeria's coach Gernot Rohr.

The list contains the name of the principal players that executed the
double header against Cameroon. With Mikel Obi, Victor Moses, Alex
Iwobi who was injured last time out and Odion Ighalo all back for the
game.

The match to be played in Uyo at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium on 2nd,
October, will see Nigeria qualify for a sixth World Cup with a win.

THE FULL LIST

Goalkeepers:

Daniel Akpeyi (Chippa United, South Africa); Ikechukwu Ezenwa (FC
IfeanyiUbah); Ayodele Ajiboye (Plateau United FC)

Defenders:

William Ekong (Bursaspor FC, Turkey); Abdullahi Shehu (Anorthosis
Famagusta, Cyprus); Leon Balogun (FSV Mainz 05, Germany); Elderson
Echiejile (Sivasspor FC, Turkey); Uche Agbo (Standard Liege, Belgium);
Chidozie Awaziem (Nantes FC, France); Olaoluwa Aina (Hull City,
England)

Midfielders:

Mikel John Obi (Tianjin Teda, China); Ogenyi Onazi (Trabzonspor FC,
Turkey); Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City, England); Oghenekaro Etebo (CD
Feirense, Portugal); John Ogu (Hapoel Be'er Sheva, Israel); Mikel Agu
(Bursaspor FC, Turkey)

Forwards:

Ahmed Musa (Leicester City, England); Kelechi Iheanacho (Leicester
City, England); Moses Simon (KAA Gent, Belgium); Alex Iwobi (Arsenal
FC, England); Odion Ighalo (Chang Chun-Yatai, China); Victor Moses
(Chelsea FC, England); Anthony Nwakaeme (Hapoel Be'er Sheva, Israel)


STANDBY:

Dele Alampasu (Cesarense FC, Portugal); Tyronne Ebuehi (ADO Den Haag,
The Netherlands); Aaron Samuel (CSKA Moscow, Russia); Afeez Aremu
(Akwa United); Ifeanyi Ifeanyi (Akwa United)

Arsenal vs West Brom teams: Starts for Alexis and Lacazette, Ozil on the bench

Arsenal play the first of three matches in seven days as they host
Tony Pulis' West Brom side.

Arsene Wenger starts Alexis Sanchez alongside Alexandre Lacazette for
the first time, while Mesut Ozil is on the bench after recovering from
injury.

Full Teams:

Arsenal:

Cech, Koscielny, Mustafi, Monreal, Bellerin, Xhaka, Elneny, Kolasinac,
Ramsey, Alexis, Lacazette

Subs: Ospina, Mertesacker, Ozil, Wilshere, Maitland-Niles, Walcott, Giroud

West Brom:

Foster, Nyom, Gibbs, Evans, Dawson, Robson-Kanu, Livermore, Barry,
Rodriguez, Krychowiak, Hegazi

Subs: Myhill, Morrisson, Rondon, Yacob, Phillips, Brunt, McClean

Kenya stripped as host of CHAN 2018, Cameroon remain host of Afcon 2019

The Confederation of African Football CAF, has stripped Kenya of the
hosting right for the CHAN tournament for players that ply their trade
on the continent.

The decision was taken by the CAF executive committee meeting in Ghana
holding on the sideways of the WAFU Cup competition.

The East African nation were
already behind schedule in their preparation for a tournament that was
due to hold in January, 2018. With the four venues Kasarani, Nyayo,
Kinoru, Kipchoge Keino initially designated for the competition all
behind schedule.

A new bidding process will now open on Sunday. With inspection due in
10 days, while the new host for the competition will be announced in
15 days.

Meanwhile, at the same meeting CAF president Ahmad reiterated that
Cameroon will remain as host of the 2019 African Cup of Nations.

The Central African nation are currently behind schedule in the
upgrade of facilities, but there is still time for them to put things
in order as the tournament will now hold in June and July of 2019,
instead of the traditional January and February.

Stoke vs Chelsea teams: Bakayoko and Christensen starts

Both manager reverts to their familiar eleven after making wholesale
changes in midweek for the League Cup.

There is one enforced change for Chelsea as Christensen comes in for
David Luiz who starts the first of a three match ban.

Full Teams:

Stoke City:Butland, Pieters, Allen, Johnson, Choupo-Moting, Jese,
Indi, Diouf, Shaqiri, Fletcher, Sobhi

Chelsea:Courtois, Rudiger, Alonso, Kante, Morata, Pedro, Bakayoko,
Moses, Willian, Christensen, Azpilicueta

Southampton vs Man United teams: Fellaini and Mata starts

Manchester United are at St Marys' stadium to play Southampton. Jose
Mourinho reverts back to his first eleven after the wholesale changes
for the League Cup win over Burton in midweek.

Full Teams

Southampton: Forster, Bertrand, Hoedt, Lemina, Yoshida, Soares, Davis,
Romeu, Romeu, Redmond, Long.

Subs: McCarthy, Austin, Ward-Prowse, Van Dijk, Johberg, Gabbiadini, Pied.

Manchester United: De Gea, Young, Bailly, Jones, Valencia, Matic,
Fellaini, Mkhitaryan, Mata, Rashford, Lukaku.

Subs: Romero, Martial, Smalling, Lingard, Carrick, Herrera, Blind.

Wenger: With goals and assists, Alex Iwobi will be a top class player

Arsene Wenger has heaped praise on midfielder Alex Iwobi.
The 21 year old was a surprise inclusion in the match against Chelsea
in Arsenal's last league match. A decision that raised eyebrow from
some sections of the club's fanbase.

However, the Nigeria international put in a solid performance, going
on to create more chances (3) than any other Arsenal player on the
day.

Now, his manager expects more from him especially with goals and assist.

"I like the fact that he can play in tight areas, that he turns the
game forwards, that he's very mobile.

"We expect him to be more efficient in the final third offensively
because you feel there are goals there & assists too."

"They [goals & assists] have to come out. Add that to he allows the
team to play very well - he'll be a top-class player."

Iwobi broke into the Arsenal first team in the second half of the
2015/2016 season. Having some solid performances along the way.

He continued with that rich vein of form the following season, but his
form dipped in the second half of last season, and he rarely made the
team afterwards.

A product of the Arsenal academy, he started the season with an
accomplished display against Chelsea in the Community Shield in
August. And with faith shown in him by Arsene Wenger especially in a
crucial away tie at Chelsea, he could be primed for more starts as the
season progresses.

No idea when Pogba will return says Jose Mourinho

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho was asked during his weekly
press conference on Friday when Paul Pogba would return from injury.
"No idea" was his blunt reply.

The 24 year old suffered a hamstring injury against Basel in the
club's opening Champions League tie early this month. It was reported
he could be out for over a month.

However, the Portuguese wouldn't be drawn on when the club's record
signing would return, choosing instead to focus on the players that
are available and the fixtures ahead.

"No idea. But again, it's a great opportunity for other players to
play and I trust them all so I am not going to cry and count the days
for Paul to be back." he told the press

On the club's upcoming away fixtures in the Champions League, Mourinho
had this to say.

"It is very difficult but it means it will be easier later. If we play
now CSKA in Moscow and Benfica in Lisbon then later we will play at
Old Trafford. If we have consecutive matches away, it means later we
will play them at Old Trafford so I am never too worried.

"The number of matches in the league is going to be the same. If we
cannot win we try to get points and then try to compensate with good
form at home."

Manchester United are at Southampton where they will attempt to
continue their strong start to the season.

Antonio Conte: Tough season ahead with European football

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte had his weekly press conference on
Friday ahead of the club's league match against Stoke City on
Saturday.

It is first of three key fixtures for the Premier League champions,
which takes in a Champions League tie with Atletico Madrid in Spain,
and Manchester City's visit to Stamford Bridge.

The Italian is of the view that these are tough matches forms part of
what would shape up to be a challenging season that would test his
squad.

"This season it will be a big challenge for us, to face each
competition with our squad and play every three days." He said

"We have Stoke and two important games with Atletico and City. This
type of situation will be very important for us to face in the right
way. It won't be easy to have these games very close."

"The most important thing is to go game by game. Tomorrow it will be a
really tough game and we have to be prepared for the physical and
tactical aspect and be disciplined. I am pleased for the commitment of
my players."

Nigeria qualifies for Wafu Cup final after beating Benin Rep.

Nigeria's Super Eagles B have qualified for the finals of the Wafu Cup
currently going on in Ghana after beating neigbhours Benin Republic
1-0.

Kano Pillar's Rabiu Ali scored the all important goal in the 10th
minute for the Eagles.

Benin Republic's chances of getting an equaliser suffered a setback
when they were reduced to ten players in the 33rd minute after
Marcellin picked up a second yellow card.

Nigeria had chances to put more gloss on the scoreline, but they
spurned the chances that came their way. Gabriel Okechukwu had a late
chance cleared off the line in the 86th minute.

Nigeria now await the winners of the other semi finals, where host
Ghana would be favourite to advance.

Official: Diego Costa to rejoin Atletico Madrid

Chelsea have annouced that they have reached an agreement with
Atletico Madrid for the signing of Diego Costa subject to a medical
and personal terms being agreed.

Chelsea FC @

ChelseaFC

Chelsea Football Club has today agreed terms with Atletico Madrid for
the transfer of Diego Costa...

02:42 PM - 21 Sep 2017

The 28 year old rejoins the Spanish side after three years in England
with 64 goals in 135 games for a fee reported to be close to £50m

His departure brings to an end a protracted saga between player and
club that started in January.

In June, he was told by manager Antonio Conte via a text message
that he wasn't in his plans.

He subsequently refused to return to training in London despite being
mandated by the club to do so. But instead stayed over in Brazil where
he used several press releases and interviews to indicate that he
would only accept a transfer back to La Liga side Atletico Madrid, and
he has gotten his wish.

He leaves Chelsea after winning two Premier League titles, and a League Cup.

Klopp on Oxlade-Chamberlain: He didn't have the best game in his life

Following Liverpool's exit from the English League Cup at the hands of
Leicester City on Tuesday. England international and a £40m signing
from Arsenal on transfer deadline day, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain was
criticised for his poor showing in the match.

The 24 year old struggled in his first start for the Merseysiders
since he departed the Emirates as they fell two nil at the King Power
Stadium.

Inevitably, in his press conference on Thursday, Jurgen Klopp was
asked about the criticism his performance attracted, and the former
Borussia Dortmund manager admitted that his new signing struggled on
the day.

"He had some really, really good situations and some unlucky
situations and he had little problem with his calf.

"It's was his first start and he didn't play the best game in his
life, so people probably asked where is the impact he can make but I'm
not in doubt about this."

Wenger: A new contract for Wishere defends on him staying fit

Arsene Wenger had his weekly press conference on Thursday ahead of
Monday's Premier League match against West Brom at the Emirates.

The Frenchman was asked whether there a long term future for Jack
Wishere at Arsenal.

This is after he completed 90 minutes in an Arsenal shirt for over two
years following his solid display against Doncaster in Wednesday's
League Cup win.

His current Arsenal deal expires at the end of the season.

The Arsenal manager had this to say in response;

"That is down to whether he can remain fit or not."

"He is an Arsenal man, an Arsenal player - He certainly would want to
(have a long-term future)."

"But we haven't spoken about that because at the start of the season I
thought we had to see how it evolved and what kind of influence he can
have in the squad through the whole season."

It doesn't come as a surprise that Arsene Wenger and the club are
watching to see whether he retains his fitness before there is talk of
a new contract.

The 25 year old has not had a sustained period of fitness since his
breakthrough season at Arsenal seven years ago.

EFL Cup 4th round draw: Arsenal to play Norwich City, Chelsea to host Everton

The fourth round of the English League Cup has been conducted after
tonight's third round matches.

Arsenal are to host Norwich City at the Emirates after their 1-0 win
over Doncaster.

Following their 5-1 win over Nottingham Forest, Chelsea will host
Everton in an all Premier League tie.

While Manchester United's reward for beating Burton 4-0 is a date with
Swansea at the Liberty Stadium.

The ties would be played between October 23-24

Full draws:

Leicester v Leeds
Bournemouth v Middlesbrough
Chelsea v Everton
Manchester City v Wolves
Swansea City v Manchester United
Arsenal v Norwich City
Tottenham Hotspur v West Ham United
Bristol City v Crystal Palace

EFL Cup: Chelsea vs Nottingham Forest teams: Hazard and Bakayoko starts

Antonio Conte has handed Eden Hazard his first start of the season.
The Belgian international joins a much changed eleven for the match at
Stamford Bridge.

Full Teams.

Chelsea

Caballero, Rudiger, Christensen, Cahill, Zappacosta, Bakayoko,
Fabregas, Kenedy, Musonda, Batshuayi, Hazard.

Nottingham Forest:

Henderson, Lichaj, Mancienne, Osborn, Fox, Dowell, Hobbs, Bouchalakis,
Walker, Cummings, Worrall

EFL Cup: Arsenal vs Doncaster teams: Starts for Wilshere and Alexis Sanchez

Arsene Wenger has named a much changed side for the league cup against
League One side Doncaster.

There are starts for Alexis Sanchez and young starlet Reiss Nelson

Full Teams:

Arsenal

Ospina; Chambers, Mertesacker, Holding; Nelson, Wilshere, Elneny,
Niles; Walcott, Alexis; Giroud

Subs: Macey, Monreal, Willock, Dasilva, Iwobi, Nketiah, Akpom

Doncaster Rovers: Lawlor, Mason, Wright, Butler, Blair, Houghton,
Whiteman, Rowe, Kongolo, Coppinger, May

Subs: Marosi, Alcock, Toffolo, Garratt, Mandeville, Marquis, Williams

Arsenal's Danny Welbeck ruled out for up to four weeks

Arsenal striker Danny Welbeck has been ruled out for four weeks
following the groin injury he picked up in the match against Chelsea
on Sunday.

The 26 year old was carried off the field after he sustained the injury late on.

Prior to this latest injury setback, he has started all Arsenal's
league matches this season.

His time at Arsenal has been plagued by injuries since he was signed
in 2014. He spent almost a year out prior to the beginning of last
season, and recovered late on well into the second half of the
2016/2017 season.

With a return of three league goals and a assist, his output in front
of goal and his running and work ethics off the ball have been
tactically important for Arsenal in the early weeks of the season.

In his stead, Alexis Sanchez is expected to now fully into the side
after being eased into the full setup in recent weeks as a result of
his fitness.

Meanwhile, Arsene Wenger would hand starts to Jack Wilshere and Calum
Chambers in Wednesday's League Cup tie against Doncaster at the
Emirates.

The Frenchman confirmed this when he spoke to the club's website.
Youngster Riess Nelson is also expected to play in what is expected to
be a much changed side.

Wafu Cup: Nigeria beat host Ghana 2-0 to qualify for semi final

The Super Eagles of Nigeria book their passage to the semi finals of
the Wafu Cup after beating host Ghana 2-0 at the Cape Coast stadium on
Monday.

Salisu Yusuf tutored side failed to find the net in their first two
group matches against Mali and Guinea with a goalless scoreline in
both games.

However needing a win against Ghana who had qualified coming into the
game, the Nigeria Professional Football League players distinguished
themselves with a dominant performance to advance to the next stage of
the competition.

They opened the scoring in the 54th minute of the second half through
Tony Okpotu and doubled the lead three minutes later through Peter
Eneji to add more gloss to the scoreline.

The Super Eagles have now scored four goals in four matches against
Sierra Leone, Mali, Guinea and Ghana without conceding.

The semi finals would hold later this week.

Antonio Conte on Arsenal: It was a good point against a tough side

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte called the stalemate against Arsenal a
good point after both sides failed to find the net. It was the first
time, the Italian have seen his side fail to score in 27 matches.

He wasn't too down beat, calling the result instead a good point
against a tough opponent.

"It was a good, open game with both teams trying to win.

"Every game against Arsenal is always very tough, we knew very well
what type of game to face. Both teams are great teams, it's a good
draw.

"David Luiz, you know very well that I don't like to comment about the
referee. I don't do it in the past, or the present. You need to see
what happened before the tackle.

"We have great respect for officials, but it is strange to finish a
third game in a row against Arsenal with 10 men."

Wenger on Chelsea game: Arsenal could have won it

Chelsea and Arsenal played out a goalless draw at Stamford Bridge on
Sunday. Both sides had chances to win the match during a pulsating
tie.

The result means Arsenal avoided defeat at Chelsea for the first time
in six years, and Arsene Wenger is of the opinion that his side could
have won it on the day.

Speaking after the match, he said

"It was about mentality and a response from our last away game. We
could have won it. It was an intense game.

"The battle was total. We are not in a transfer period and on the day
we played Liverpool that affected us. We are all human beings.

"If you play 55 games a season you can have a bad performance.

"But we were focused and determined. We tried to play when we had the
ball and we were close to winning the game. With a bit more freedom we
would have won the game.

"David Luiz, it looked excessive force to me, at what level did he
catch Kolasinac? I don't know."

Man United vs Everton teams: Fellaini in for Pogba

Paul Pogba is missing from Manchester United starting eleven with
Fellaini coming in in his stead. Wayne Rooney returns to Old Trafford.

Full teams

Manchester United De Gea; Valencia, Jones, Bailly, Young; Matić,
Fellaini; Mata, Mkhitaryan, Rashford; Lukaku.

Subs: Martial, Smalling, Lingard, Carrick, Romero, Herrera, Darmian

Everton Pickford; Martina, Keane, Williams, Jagielka, Baines;
Schneiderlin, Gueye; Davies, Sigurdsson, Rooney.

Subs: Ramírez, Mirallas, Klaassen, Besic, Stekelenburg, Calvert-Lewin, Holgate

Chelsea vs Arsenal teams: Hazard and Alexis on the bench, Ozil missing

Chelsea welcome Arsenal to Stamford Bridge for the first league
meeting between both teams this season.

Its the third league meeting between both managers and their fifth
meeting in all competitions.

Both managers have reverted to their traditional starting eleven after
making a host of changes for European games in midweek.

Full teams.

Courtois, Azpilicueta, Luiz, Cahill, Alonso, Moses, Willian, Kane,
Pedro, Fabregas, Morata,

Subs: Caballero, Zappacosta, Rudiger, Bakayoko, Hazard, Batshuayi, Christensen

Arsenal

Cech, Koscielny, Mustafi, Monreal, Bellerin, Xhaka, Ramsey, Kolasinac,
Iwobi, Welbeck, Lacazette.

Subs: Ospina, Mertesacker, Alexis, Elneny, Maitland-Niles, Walcott, Giroud

Which Arsenal would turn up at Chelsea?

Chelsea host Arsenal in the Premier League on Sunday.

While the Premier League champions have decisively recovered from
their opening day defeat to Burnley to post four wins in a row in both
the league and Champions League.
Arsenal have not fully convinced this season. The gunners have won two
matches against Bournemouth and Cologne after the international break.
This followed the double reverse against Stoke City and Liverpool
where they conceded five goals without scoring. They dominated
possession and created chances against Stoke, but they failed to turn
up against Liverpool.

However, the real test of their two game recovery would come at
Stamford Bridge. A place that has not been a happy hunting ground in
recent season.

This is the second meeting between both sides after they played out a
1-1 draw in the Community Shield in August which Arsenal eventually
won on penalties.

The meetings between both sides last season saw Arsenal triumphed 3-0
at the Emirates and lost 3-1 at Stamford Bridge. While they won 2-1 in
the FA Cup in May.

While you know what to expect from Antonio Conte's Chelsea, that
cannot be said of Arsene Wenger's Arsenal.
Chelsea under Conte if the defeat to Burnley is taken out of the
picture have been solid ever since with wins against Tottenham,
Everton and Leicester City, where they scored seven goals and let in
two goals. But it was the way they defeated Tottenham that immediately
banished any memory of the opening day defeat to Burnley where they
were slack in defence. Since that match, they have been back to their
solid and organised best at the back.

The uncertainty about Arsenal is well documented. This is best summed
up by Antonio Conte's statement on Friday while he spoke to the media,
that "anything can happen when you play Arsenal."

This best describe the current Arsenal side. They could produce a
performance on the day that is reminiscent of the Wembley display
against Chelsea in May. Or they could as well opt for a lethargic
display like the non-performance against Liverpool at Anfield.

It is this unpredictability from Arsenal's current team that gives the
tie an extra edge.

Both teams rested a host of players in midweek European games. Chelsea
found their tie against Qarabag relatively easy with a 6-0. While
Arsenal overturned a poor first half display to beat Cologne 3-1 on
Thursday in the Europa League.

The Premier League champions starts the match as favourite going by
their recent display especially the way new signings Alvaro Morata and
Tiemoue Bakayoko have settled in. Antonio Rudiger have been solid in
Gary Cahill's absence while he served his three match suspension.

While Chelsea have a solid 3-4-3 formation which doesn't change in
game irrespective of the scoreline, Arsene Wenger have lurched between
his traditional 4-3-3 to 3-4-3. The Frenchman have been quick to
switch to a back four once his team are behind in a match. It has
worked in home matches this season. But whether he starts with a back
three or four at Chelsea remains to be seen.

Arsenal's record against the top six last season makes for grim
reading. LDLDLDDDLLLLL. And already this season, they started with a
big defeat to Liverpool. It would take a huge performance to get a
result at Stamford Bridge. A place they last won in 2011.

Jose Mourinho: Paul Pogba will be missed

Jose Mourinho gave an update of the state his squad when he spoke to
the media on Friday ahead of Manchester United's game against Everton
on Sunday.

France international midfielder Paul Pogba limped off against Basel in
the Champions League on Tuesday with what was a hamstring injury.

The 24 year old is expected to be out for up a month, and Mourinho has
been quick to say that his absence would be a miss to the club.

Asked about Pogba, he had this to say.

"I don't know. Out for the weekend match, only one I am thinking
about. He [Pogba] is not playing this weekend. I don't know if same
one or other leg (as last season)."

"We have players waiting for an opportunity. We have started the
season really well, with one match a week. No need for changes. But
there are good players more than ready.

"We miss Pogba, we need him. But Herrera, Fellaini and Carrick are
waiting for a real chance. They are ready. We lost players during
crucial moments of the season. We didn't cry about that. We have to
cope. We will be without Pogba for a few matches but we have other
players to play."

While Pogba is entering a period where he would be out for sometime.
There is goodnews on the injury front for Manchester United, with Luke
Shaw now fit, but lacking match fitness.

"Luke Shaw is not injured any more. It is a question of form and
options. Not injured. Marcos Rojo is still in the timings after such
an important injury, everything went well. But he is not training with
the group in a normal session. He still has a couple of months."

Antonio Conte: Anything can happen against Arsenal

Chelsea host Arsenal on Sunday in week five of the English Premier
League. Ahead of the tie, Antonio Conte spoke to the media.

The Premier League champions have since overcome a opening day defeat
to Burnley to win four matches in a row, including Tuesday's 6-0 win
over Qarabag in the Champions League.

With Arsenal the visitors at the Bridge on Sunday, the Italian had the
time to assess the title credentials of a team they would be meeting
for the second time in a month after the Community Shield showdown
between both clubs in August.

Despite the gunners indifferent start to the season which has seen
them suffer consecutive away defeats to Stoke and Liverpool, Antonio
Conte still believes they remain strong contenders for the title, and
their unpredictable nature means anything can happen when playing
against them.

"I think that Arsenal is one of the six top teams in England and I
think that they have a really good squad and want to fight for
something important. For this reason, I think it is a massive game for
us. When you play against Arsenal it is the same as when you play
against City, Liverpool, United or Tottenham.

"Anything can happen. We are to fight. We have to play a game against a rival.

"Arsenal are a big rival for the title. I don't understand why they
can't fight for the title."

The Stamford Bridge haven't been a happy hunting ground for Arsenal in
recent seasons. Having failed to secure a win there since a 5-3 win in
2011.

With Arsenal's poor record away from home, it should provide an
exciting spectacle on Sunday.

Wenger: There is no hierarchy in the Arsenal squad

Arsenal opened their Europa League campaign with a 3-1 win over German
side Cologne.

In a match that was delayed for one hour due to crowd safety issues as
a result of the number of Cologne fans that descended on the Emirates
Stadium, the Gunners came from behind with second half goals from Sead
Kolasinac, Alexis Sanchez and Hector Bellerin making up for a poor
first half display.

Arsene Wenger made nine changes to his line up. With seven of the
players that featured against Bournemouth not part of the matchday
squad.

The Frenchman praised his squad for their second half display on the
night and asserted that there is no hierarchy in the squad as was
reflected by the number of changes he made for the match.

"We had a slow start and there was an accidental goal. After that it
was important not to concede and panic and put more pace into our
game. From then. we controlled the game and won convincingly in the
end. He told BT Sport.

"I think Sanchez is still running after his best form. He is a
fantastic football player but physically he has just come back. But he
has it in his locker to do something special, which he did.

"We want to do well in all the best competitions and I had an
experienced team today, even though I made nine changes. They are all
top class players, there is no hierarchy in the squad."

Arsenal are at Stamford Bridge on Sunday to face Chelsea in what is
expected to be a tough examination of the club's new found form.

Arsenal in the Europa League: Alexis part of nine changes

Arsenal file out in Uefa's second tier club competition the Europa
League for the first time in its present format after missing out on
the familiar terrain of the Champions League for the first time in 20
years.

The Gunners' opponent for tonight's match at the Emirates is
Bundesliga side Cologne who are making their first European appearance
in 25 years.

Arsene Wenger has gone with a much changed line up to the one that
featured in the league win over Bournemouth last weekend. With Nine
changes made.

Full teams:

Arsenal

David Ospina, Per Mertesacker, Rob Holding, Nacho Monreal, Hector
Bellerin, Maitland-Niles, Iwobi, Elneny, Theo Walcott, Alexis Sanchez,
Oliver Giroud

Subs: Macey, Wilshere, Mustafi, The Jeff, Kolasinac, Akpom, Nelson

Cologne:

Horn, Heintz, Hoger, Zoller, Hector, Cordoba, Bittencourt, Mere,
Klunter, Lehmann, Rausch

Subs: Kessler, Sorensen, Risse, Jojic, Osako, Guirassy, Horn

Liverpool back in the Champions League: Coutinho on the bench

Uefa Champions League football returns to Anfield after a two year
hiatus. Its the first time Jurgen Klopp would be leading Liverpool in
Europe's premier club competition.

Phillipe Coutinho returns to the squad. But he is only fit for the bench.

Full team:

Karius, Gomez, Lovren, Matip, Moreno, Wijnaldum, Can, Henderson,
Salah, Mane, Firmino.

Subs: Mignolet, Milner, Coutinho, Sturridge, Klavan,
Oxlade-Chamberlain, Robertson

Europa League: Wenger to rest seven players for Chelsea clash

Arsene Wenger is expected to make a host of changes to the team that
would face Bundesliga side Cologne in the Europa League opening match
at the Emirates on Thursday.

According to report, seven first team players who featured against
Bournemouth on Saturday did not take part in training on Wednesday.
They include Mesut Ozil and Aaron Ramsey, who Wenger said were rested
completely because of the two matches they played during the
international break. Others are Hector Bellerin, Granit Xhaka, Danny
Welbeck, Alexandre Lacazette, Laurent Koscielny and Petr Cech.

Though Koscielny wouldn't have featured, because of a suspension from
last season's red card picked up against Bayern Munich.

Probable line up for the Cologne match could be:

David Ospina, Reiss Nelson, Ainsley Maitland-Niles, Rob Holding, Per
Mertesacker, Calum Chambers, Mo' Elneny, Jack Wilshere, Alex Iwobi,
Theo Walcott, Oliver Giroud

Although, Alexis Sanchez and Mustafi could be involved. Especially the
Chilean who is not match fit.

Wenger has a decision to make on the players that would feature in the
wing back positions.

Chelsea followed a similar pattern of rotation on Tuesday night in
their 6-0 victory over Qarabag of Azerbajian.

Antonio Conte made five changes to his starting eleven with a view of
the Arsenal match in mind.

His Arsenal counterpart is expected to feature a new team altogether.

Giroud: I stayed because my Arsenal story was not finish

(c) arsenalfc

Arsenal striker Oliver Giroud was given a chance by Arsene Wenger to
leave the club in the summer after the arrival of France compatriot
Alexandre Lacazette from Lyon for a club record fee.

The 30 year old was linked to a host of clubs which included Borussia
Dortmund, Marsielle, Lyon, West Ham and Everton.

However, despite the choice being largely his to make whether to leave
or not. He decided to stay.

Just one goal shy of reaching a century of goals for Arsenal, he sat
alongside Arsene Wenger in the club's press conference on Wednesday
ahead of the Europa League match against Cologne on Thursday. Where he
was again asked how close he was to leaving in the summer?

"It was a private decision. It's true that I was close to leaving the
club because I said I wanted to play. After a big reflection,
everybody [came] around me like my family and my close friends in a
supportive way, and I wanted to stay at The Arsenal.

"I thought the story was not over and finished at Arsenal. The club
bring me a lot and I think I give it back. I still want to improve and
improve again and again and win some more trophies with the club.

"As I said to the boss, 'our story is not finished.' Everybody was
pleased with that."

The importance of his decision to remain at the club was shown in the
opening day of the Premier League season when his late header earned
Arsenal all three points against Leicester City.

Signed in 2012, he would join an exclusive list of players who have
scored 100 goals for Arsenal if he scores on Thursday night.

Barca vs Juventus teams: Dembele starts

In a repeat of last season's quarter final tie, Barcelona host Seria A
champions, Juventus at the Nou Camp. The Catalans hand a first start
to Ousmane Dembele for tonight's match.

Full teams:

Ter Stegen, Rakitic, Sergio, Iniesta, Suárez, Messi, Dembélé, J.Alba,
Umtiti, Semedo,

Subs: Cillessen, Denis, Mascherano, Paulinho, Deulofeu, Sergi Roberto,
André Gomes

Juventus: Buffon; De Sciglio, Barzagli, Benatia, Alex Sandro;
Bentancur, Pjanic, Matuidi; Douglas Costa, Higuain, Dybala

Chelsea back in the Champions League: Morata, Hazard, Luiz, Moses on the bench, Batshuayi starts

English Premier League champions Chelsea make a return to European
football in the Champions League as they host Azerbajiani side Qabarag
at Stamford Bridge.

And true to what he said on Monday, Antonio Conte has opted for a
changed line-up for matchday one tie, making five changes from the
team that beat Leicester City 2-1 last weekend.

Full teams

Courtois; Azpilicueta, Christensen, Cahill (c); Zappacosta, Kante,
Fabregas, Alonso; Willian, Batshuayi, Pedro

Subs: Caballero, Rudiger, David Luiz, Moses, Bakayoko, Hazard, Morata

Chelsea back in the Champions League: Morata, Hazard, Luiz, Moses on the bench, Batshuayi starts

English Premier League champions Chelsea make a return to European
football in the Champions League as they host Azerbajiani side Qabarag
at Stamford Bridge. And true to what he said on Monday, Antonio Conte
has opted for a changed line-up for the matchday one tie.

Full teams

Courtois; Azpilicueta, Christensen, Cahill (c); Zappacosta, Kante,
Fabregas, Alonso; Willian, Batshuayi, Pedro

Subs: Caballero, Rudiger, David Luiz, Moses, Bakayoko, Hazard, Morata

Man United team to face Basel: starts for Martial and Linderof

Manchester United stage a come back to the Champions League after
close to 700 days absence. And Jose Mourinho has named a strong team
for the visit of the Swiss champions, Basel.

Swede defender Linderof makes his competitive debut for the club since
his move from Benfica in the summer.

Full teams:

De Gea, Young, Smalling Linderof, Blind, Matic, Pobga, Mkhitaryan,
Lukaku, Mata, Martial

Subs: Romero, Damian, Rashford, Fellaini, Lingard, Carrick, Valencia

Mourinho: Fellaini is important to me

Manchester United begin their Champions League campaign when they host
Swiss side Basel at Old Trafford on Tuesday.

Ahead of the match, Jose Mourinho spoke to the media on a host of
topics, one of which was the absence of Marouane Felliani.

The Portuguese bemoaned the fact that he played an additional match
during the international break with a calf injury.

He then reiterated how important the Belgian midfielder is to him.

"Fellaini didn't train yesterday. Let's see if he can today. He's more
important to me than you can imagine."

"He had a [calf] problem with his national team and then he played a
match against Greece, and after the match he felt the problem. If his
condition improves he will be selected, because I need him."

The 29 year old has become a regular aerial weapon that Jose Mourinho
deploys from the bench when a game is not going to plan. He has
repeatedly proved an effective tool for the Portuguese, and scored the
second goal of United's 2-0 win over Leicester City when he come on
from the bench.

But for his injury, there is no doubt that he would have played a part
in United's 2-2 draw against Stoke City last Saturday.

Little wonder the Portuguese is desperate for him to get fit.

Mourinho: Felliani is important to me

Manchester United begin their Champions League campaign when they host
Swiss side Basel at Old Trafford on Tuesday.

Ahead of the match, Jose Mourinho spoke to the media on a host of
topics, one of which was the absence of Marouane Felliani.

The Portuguese bemoaned the fact that he played an additional match
during the international break with a calf injury.

He then reiterated how important the Belgian midfielder is to him.

"Fellaini didn't train yesterday. Let's see if he can today. He's more
important to me than you can imagine."

"He had a [calf] problem with his national team and then he played a
match against Greece, and after the match he felt the problem. If his
condition improves he will be selected, because I need him."

The 29 year old has become a regular aerial weapon that Jose Mourinho
deploys from the bench when a game is not going to plan. He has
repeatedly proved an effective tool for the Portuguese, and scored the
second goal of United's 2-0 win over Leicester City when he come on
from the bench.

But for his injury, there is no doubt that he would have played a part
in United's 2-2 draw against Stoke City last Saturday.

Little wonder the Portuguese is desperate for him to get fit.

Conte: I have to rotate my squad

Chelsea manager, Antonio Conte spoke to the media on Monday ahead of
the club's Champions League opening match against Azerbaijani side
Qarabag on Tuesday at Stamford Bridge.

The Italian said he intends to use the full complement of his squad by
rotating it when necessary, because of the amount of games Chelsea are
expected to play this season.

First, he mentioned his plans to rotate his players when asked about
the impact Alvaro Morata has had since he joined.

""He is playing very well, scoring and is totally in our idea of
football. He played the full game of Spain and Leicester, I have to
check to use the best team for tomorrow.
. . .I must rotate my players but I am very calm about this because I
trust my players."

He would go on to use the word 'rotate' a number of times during his
press conference.

"We are ready [Champions League] and we need to rotate the players of
my squad and they must be involved. We are starting a path and to
build something important. You need to grow step by step to be like
Real, Bayern and you don't create a big, strong team easily."

He went further to emphasis that he has to apply rotation in the
coming weeks because of the number of games Chelsea would be playing
within a short period. Something they didn't had to cope with last
season as there was no European football.

"Qarabag are a good team, it is the first time they play in this
Champions League. I know some of the players well as we played against
Azerbaijan when Italy coach. It is a tricky game and we must pay great
attention. We played two days ago, then tomorrow, then Arsenal,
Carabao, then Stoke and Man City and then Atletico. You have to do
some rotation otherwise the last two games you have no energy."

Wenger likens French sensation Mbappe to Pele

Kylian Mbappe was the darling of host of clubs during the transfer
window. With Europe's top clubs all linked with a move for the former
Monaco youngster.

The 18 year old eventually secured a loan move to PSG which would be
made permanent for a fee of £167m next summer.

Besides his 26 goals in all competitions last season for Monaco, which
helped the Municipality side to the Ligue 1 title, one man who knows
more about his personality beyond his football talent is Arsene
Wenger.

The Arsenal manager tried to sign Mbappe in the summer of 2016 when he
had not fully burst into the scene at Monaco. Confirming Arsenal were
closer to signing him in 2016 than this year, because few clubs were
involved. It was a time he spoke directly to the 18 year old.

Now Wenger has used his moment of speaking with him to describe not
just his football qualities, but his personality.

He told BeiN sports thus;

"I think he is exceptionally intelligent, he has an exceptional
character, and exceptional belief," "I say to my friends: 'Mbappe is
the new Pele'.

"He can become the best player in the world, because he as well has
the charisma, the character, the belief.

"You never think you're speaking to an 18-year-old when you speak to him.

"He always gives you the impression when he gets the ball that
something special can happen."

He started life at his new club with a goal on his debut against Metz
last Friday. It is expected to be one of many he would score in his
home town club.

Chelsea team to face Leicester: Hazard returns, on the bench

The big news for Chelsea in the match against Leicester City at the
King Power Stadium is the return of midfielder, Eden Hazard.

He returns for the first time since the ankle surgery he had in the summer.

Transfer deadline day signings Danny Drinkwater and Zappacosta are on
the bench.

Full teams

Courtois, Azpilicueta, David Luiz, Rüdiger, Moses, Bakayoko, Fàbregas,
Kanté, Alonso, Pedro, Morata

Substitutes

Caballero, Drinkwater, Hazard, Zappacosta, Willian, Batshuayi, Christensen

Arsenal team to face Bournemouth: Alexis on the bench

Arsene Wenger makes three changes to the team that lost last time out
to Liverpool before the international break. Sead Kolasinac, Mustafi
and Alexandre Lacazette are the players that comes in to the line up.

Full teams

Cech, Bellerin, Mustafi, Koscielny, Monreal, Kolasinac, Xhaka, Ramsey,
Welbeck, Ozil, Lacazette

Subs: Ospina, Mertesacker, Iwobi, Coquelin, Walcott, Alexis, Giroud

Man City vs. Liverpool teams: Kompany and Coutinho both out

The English Premier League returns after the international break with
the first match of the weekend between Peap Guardiola's Man City and
Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool.

Vincent Kompany miss out with a calf injury picked up during the
international break. While Coutinho is no included as he isn't fully
match fit.

Full teams:

Man City

Ederson, Danilo, Stones, Otamendi, Fernandinho, Walker, De Bruyne,
Silva, Mendy, Agüero, Jesus

Subs: Bravo, Gündogan, Mangala, Delph, Sané, Bernardo Silva, Foden

Liverpool

Mignolet, Alexander-Arnold, Matip, Klavan, Moreno, Can, Henderson,
Wijnaldum, Salah, Firmino, Mané

Subs: Karius, Lovren, Milner, Gomez, Sturridge, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Solanke

Referee: Jonathan Moss

WCQ starting XI: Nigeria's Eagles unchanged vs Cameroon in Yaounde

Super Eagles coach, Gerhat Rohr has named the same line-up that
started the 4-0 win over Cameroon in Uyo last week Friday.

Nigeria can effectively seal qualification for the World Cup in Russia
if they win in Yaounde and Zambia fail to beat Algeria on Tuesday.

Full Team:

Ikechukwu Ezenwa, Elderson Echijele, Leon Balogun, William Ekong,
Shehu Abdullahi, Ogenyi Onazi, Wilfred Ndidi, Mikel Obi, Moses Simon,
Victor Moses, Odion Ighalo

The match kicks off at 6pm.

WCQ Russia 2018 Preview: Cameroon vs Nigeria

Cameroon vs. Nigeria
Venue: Stade Omnisport Ahmadou Ahidjo, Yaounde
Date: Monday 4 September, 2017
Time: 6pm West African Time

The Super Eagles of Nigeria left Uyo on Sunday to keep a date with the
Indomitable Lions of Cameroon for the second leg of the double header
between both countries.

Gerhat Rohr's touted side came away with an emphatic 4-0 win over the
African Champions in their first meeting at the Godswill Akpabio
Stadium, Uyo. With goals from Odion Ighalo, Mikel Obi, Victor Moses
and Kelechi Iheanacho capping a dominant display from the Super
Eagles.

In that match, the Cameroonians adopted a fast start which meant the
Eagles were pushed back as Hugo Broos' side pressed from the front
early on. They didn't or couldn't sustain that pressure, as the Super
Eagles built up a steam which they used to overcome the Idomitable
Lions once they got on the score sheet.

However, no two matches are the same. The Lions need a win to revive
whatever slim chances they have of qualifying for the World Cup in
Russia next summer. While Nigeria could effectively seal their passage
to Russia with a win and Zambia fail to beat Algeria in Constantine.
As the Chipolopolo defeated the Desert Foxes 3-1 in Ndola on Saturday.

If that happens, It would be Nigeria's sixth appearance at football's
showpiece event. After participating in 1994, 1998, 2002, 2010, 2014
editons of the tournament.

For Nigeria to be in such position at all with two matches to go, is a
remarkable achievement. Especially when the football pedigree of the
teams in the group is put into consideration, coupled with the fact of
how previous World Cup qualifiers have gone for the country.

The meeting in Yaounde would the 22nd between both sides. Nigeria made
it eleven wins with the victory in Uyo. With six draws and four defeat
to Cameroon.

Nigeria record against Cameroon: P22 W11 D6 L4

Teams News

FIFA have officially cleared Ola Aina to play for Nigeria. He is now
eligible to feature in the match in Yaounde. The 20 year old former
England youth international could feature as a substitute at some
point to tie him down to the team depending on how the games goes.

Gerhat Rohr is unlikely to alter the team that produced a complete
performance on Friday. Although Odion Ighalo would have to be assessed
after he was substituted with a knock. But he should be fit.

Possible line up should be the same from the first leg.

Ikechukwu Ezenwa, Shehu Abdulahi, Leon Balogun, William Ekong,
Elderson Echijele, Ogenyi Onazi, Wilfred Ndidi, Mikel Obi, Victor
Moses, Moses Simon, Odion Ighalo

Arsene Wenger was the top pick to replace Alex Ferguson says Man United former chairman

There are sights that many would consider unimaginable in football.

Arsene Wenger as Manchester United manager is certainly one of them.
But this was closer to happening than ever imagined according to the
former chairman of the Old Trafford outfit, Martin Edwards.

The background to this was Alex Ferguson's earlier planned retirement
from the game at the end of the 2000/2001 season, when he informed the
club that he would step down from the helm at Manchester United.

So the club's chairman at the time, beamed their search light on the
Arsenal manager, who was just five years into his reign at the club.
He was Manchester United's first choice to replace their legendary
Scot.

"Our first choice was Arsene Wenger. Since joining Arsenal in 1996,
Wenger had been pretty successful, especially in his first full season
in charge when he won the double. And while it's true to say that he
has suffered hard times since, at the time we all thought he was the
best candidate to replace Alex. Certainly, he was my number one
choice." Martin Edwards who said

"Wenger did show a little bit of interest, enough to want to meet with
both [former United chief executive] Peter Kenyon and me at his home
in London to listen to what we had to say. In fact, we had a couple of
meetings with him and for a while we thought there was a possibility
of him joining us.

"But I think Wenger felt a loyalty towards [former Arsenal
vice-chairman] David Dein. He was very close to David, and that was
the reason he gave us in the end for turning down United. He felt that
he had started something with Arsenal and that his attachment to the
club was too great, he didn't want to break that bond."

However, Alex Ferguson did change his mind about retirement. He ended
up staying for a further twelve years, before retiring in 2013 after
winning a 13th Premier League title.

WCQ Preview: Nigeria v. Cameroon

Nigeria v. Cameroon
World Cup Qualifiers
Venue: Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo
Matchday Three
Friday, 1 September, 2017
Time: 5pm

Nigeria would attempt to move closer to a sixth World Cup appearance when they play the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon on Friday, in Uyo, Akwa Ibom state.

The Super Eagles of Nigeria are top of the group with six points after victories over Zambia and Algeria in the first two matches. Cameroon are two points behind after two draws against the same opponents.

Cameroon come into the match as African Champions after winning the  Cup of Nations in February. They took part in the Confederations Cup in June where they struggled against Chile and Germany.

The last competitive match between both sides was at the African Cup of Nations in Tunisia 2004 when Nigeria came out tops 2-1 in a quarter final match with goals from Austin Okocha and John Utaka.

The last time both sides were in the same group for a World Cup qualifiers was in the race for italia 1990.

In World Cup Qualifiers between both sides, Nigeria have won two,  drawn one and lost one from four meetings.

In total, there have been twenty meetings between Nigeria and Cameroon, Nigeria have won 10 times, drawn 6 and lost 4.

Possible Line-Up

Nigeria would be without Alex Iwobi who pulled out with an injury. While Carl Ikeme is sick. The line up from Gernat Rohr should look like this:

Ezenwa, William Ekong, Abdullahi Shehu, Leon Balogun, Elderson Echiejile, Mikel John Obi, Wilfred Ndidi, Oghenekaro Etebo, Kelechi Iheanacho, Odion Ighalo, Victor Moses