Mendilibar to remain at Osasuna

AS reports that Osasuna boss Jose Luis Mendilibar is set to continue at the club next season.
Although there has been no official announcement from the Pamplona-based outfit, everything suggests he will be at El Sadar for the start of the 2012-13 campaign as it is understood his contract specifies it will be automatically renewed for a further 12 months in the event he avoids relegation.
Mendilibar dined with President Miguel Archanco and directors Jose Luis Roldan and Chuma Peralta on Monday, and despite a lack of statements it is assumed that an agreement had been reached for his continuation.
It is a situation that may not be well received by the Osasuna faithful, who in recent surveys conducted by various media publications made it clear they would like a new man to sit on the bench next term.

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Casillas holds no grudge with Mou

Real Madrid and Spain goalkeeper Iker Casillas says he holds no grudges towards former boss Jose Mourinho.
Casillas was dropped by the Portuguese for the latter part of last season in favour of Diego Lopez, but insists he hopes things go well for Mourinho in his new role at Chelsea.
“Mourinho has embarked on a new journey and I wish him all the best. When he was at Real Madrid he made some decisions and you have to respect that,” said Casillas at a presentation for Mediaset Espana in Madrid.
“Unfortunately, we didn’t achieve the objectives we had in mind, which were the Champions League and the Copa del Rey, so there’s no point in going over it again.
“I wish him luck and hopefully everything goes well. He gave everything for Madrid and I personally do not hold any grudges.”
Questioned about his absence for the final match of the season against Osasuna, Casillas maintained he will be ready for Spain’s participation in the Confederations Cup despite so much time spent inactive.
“I’m always ready to play. I have to thank [Vicente] Del Bosque for the confidence he has shown in me after some months without playing and I hope to be on the same level as my teammates, although I’ll begin with a major disadvantage.
“To be back with the national team is always a challenge because we have an exciting team that makes everybody happy. On a collective level the Confederations Cup is a good opportunity to win the only title we haven’t won.
“Every time I am with this team it gives me great pleasure and I’m confident we can return to Spain with the title.”

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Navas made City decision four months ago

Jesus Navas has revealed he made the decision to join Manchester City four months ago.
The Premier League side have signed the Sevilla winger for €21.5m with a further €5.5m in variables, and Navas spoke of his excitement at the move on arrival at Spain’s training camp in Madrid before the Confederations Cup.
“I’m excited to be joining Manchester City and it’s a good opportunity for me. I think it will be a good move for both parties,” he told reporters.
“I took the decision four months ago. The Premier League is a competition where the football is very fast and City are putting together a great team.”
Navas also had words for Sevilla, where he has spent his entire playing career.
“I’m leaving Sevilla, which is a beautiful place, and going to a great club in England. I still don’t speak English but I’m now going to study it.
“I’ve not spoken to [expected to take over] Manuel Pellegrini, but he is a Coach that I know of,” he added

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Tottenham snub Zidane over Bale

The Daily Star says Tottenham Hotspur have snubbed Real Madrid director of football Zinedine Zidane over the transfer of Gareth Bale.
The French legend was due to fly to London this week to open talks with Spurs in an attempt to bring the Welsh international to the Santiago Bernabeu.
However, his plans have had to be put on hold after Spurs Chairman Daniel Levy insisted he will only deal directly with Madrid President Florentino Perez.
Perez will be officially presented as President on Tuesday after being re-elected unopposed, but he does not want to pay more than €65m for Bale and hopes to raise some money towards his capture by the sale of Gonzalo Higuain to Juventus.
Even so, the White Hart Lane club are anxious to keep Bale and are under no pressure to sell unless the player himself requests an exit, although sources close to him maintain that is unlikely to happen.

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Getafe negotiate Cata Diaz return

Getafe are negotiating the return of Cata Diaz to the Coliseum Alfonso Perez from Atletico Madrid, reports Marca.
Director of football Toni Munoz is understood to have met Atleti officials at the Vicente Calderon on Tuesday morning in an effort to resolve the transfer before the summer holidays.
Diaz, 33, was bought by Los Rojiblancos from El Geta before the start of last season for €1.5m – the only signing that cost Atleti money - but has failed to hold down a regular place in boss Diego Simeone’s starting line-up, making just nine La Liga appearances.
He was also involved in an altercation with fans after the recent Copa del Rey final victory over Real Madrid, ,something that has not gone down too well with the club’s hierarchy, and Getafe are hoping the Argentine international might now be released for a cut-price fee.

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Arda wants Atletico stay

Atletico Madrid midfielder Arda Turan has revealed he wants to stay at the club until the end of his contract in June 2015.
According to AS, Turan [pictured, right] is delighted with the conquest of the Copa del Rey, Europa League and European Super Cup in his first two years at Atleti since joining from Galatasaray.
He also feels a special bond with the fans and has told his representatives he will refuse to listen to any offers over the summer, a decision he says is final and that there is no chance of him changing his mind.
Arda is already believed to have turned down an offer from Fenerbahce that would have seen him earn €4.8m-a-year for the next five seasons, twice what he earns at the Vicente Calderon, with Atleti picking up around €15m for his transfer.
However, the Turkish international does not want to return to his native country just yet and has made it known he does not fancy playing for his former club’s main rivals either.
Having admitted that he found it hard to adapt to the Spanish capital when he first arrived, Arda says he is now comfortably settled into the way of life and is enjoying himself.
“The friendliness of the people made it more bearable for me. I feel very happy and at peace here.
“I cried for five minutes after we won the Copa del Rey. It was something else and I found it impossible to stop the tears. The team fought with confidence, blood and faith,” he concluded.
Atletico President Enrique Cerezo also confirmed that Arda will continue with Los Rojiblancos next season.
“Firstly, he is my friend. Secondly, he is one of the best players in Atletico Madrid’s history. He is a key player for us. He wants to stay here and I’m sure he will do that,” commented Cerezo.
It was understood the 26-year-old had harboured thoughts of playing in England, but for now that is an option he wants to put aside for the future.

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Florentino: Cristiano will retire here

President Florentino Perez believes Cristiano Ronaldo will retire from football whilst still a Real Madrid player.
Perez has been re-elected Madrid President unopposed and begins his new mandate on Tuesday. In the meantime, he has reaffirmed his conviction that the former Manchester United player’s future lies at the Santiago Bernabeu.
“We want a Madrid that is based on Cristiano. I can assure you will win our 10^th European Cup with him.
“Cristiano has two more years left [on his contract]. We want him to retire here and I think that is what he is going to do. He is the best player in the world so he needs to be the best paid in the world,” Perez told the Punto Pelota programme.
The 66-year-old also commented on Los Blancos’ search for a new Coach following the departure of Jose Mourinho, with Paris Saint-Germain’s Carlo Ancelotti and former Bayern Munich boss Jupp Heynckes the favourites.
“I’ve not spoken to anybody at PSG so I can’t say anything about Ancelotti out of respect. I don’t know what Ancelotti has spoken about with his club.
“To us it appeared he was free this year but afterwards it seemed that wasn’t the case, because he won the French League and his contract was extended for another year.
“He is a candidate for our bench if he is free but we have more [people] and we’ll have to study who is the best. Neither have we spoken to Jupp Heynckes and we’ll wait and see what he says at a Press conference on Tuesday,” explained Perez.
In addition, he feels it will be difficult to replace Mourinho with a Coach who possesses similar characteristics.
“It will be hard to find a boss like him, someone with the same intensity. He is very demanding and wherever he goes he leaves his mark, but as events unfolded we eventually came to the conclusion his departure was the best thing.”

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Malaga await CAS appeal

Malaga take their appeal against a one-year European ban to the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Lausanne, Switzerland on Tuesday.
The Costa del Sol outfit was hit with the ban last December for outstanding debts with other clubs involving transfer fees, money owed to players and an unpaid tax bill. There was also the threat of further punishment if the club did not complete its obligations by March 31.
However, since then Los Blanquiazules appear to have got their house in order and, having finished sixth in La Liga last term, will attempt to get the ban overturned so they can take their place in next season’s Europa League.
The Malaga expedition arrived in Lausanne on Monday night and was headed by Vice President Moayad Shatat, owner Sheikh Abdullah Al-Thani’s right-hand man, along with CEO Vicente Casado, deputy general director Manuel Novo, legal advisor Joaquin Jofre and sports lawyer Juan de Dios Crespo.
The hearing was set for 8am local time and the judge presiding over the matter has said the matter should be resolved no later than 12.30pm.

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Real Betis off to England

Real Betis will play three summer friendlies in England as part of their pre-season preparations, the club’s official website has announced.
Los Beticos will be based in Manchester and have arranged fixtures against Championship sides Huddersfield Town and Bolton Wanderers on July 24 and 26 respectively, while they will take on League One outfit Wolverhampton Wanderers on July 27.
The games with both Huddersfield and Bolton are scheduled for evening kick-offs, at 7.45pm and 8pm local time, while the game against Wolves, who appointed Kenny Jackett as new boss this week, is set for Saturday afternoon at 3pm.

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Roberto Carlos agrees Turkish deal

Real Madrid legend Roberto Carlos has agreed a two-year deal to coach Turkish side Sivasspor, reports AS.
The 40-year-old Brazilian international arrives from Anzhi Makhachkala, where he retired as a player last season before moving behind the scenes with the Russian outfit.
Capped 125 times for his country, Roberto Carlos is well acquainted with Turkish football after his time at Fenerbahce between 2007 and 2009 following his transfer from Real Madrid.
He will be assisted by his friend Cesar Mendiondo, whom he met at Fenerbahce, with former player Murat Erdogan taking on the role of director of football.
Interestingly, his first goal for Fenerbahce came against Sivasspor when he was on the mark with a diving header, only the third headed goal of his career.
Unsurprisingly, his appointment has caused great excitement among the Sivasspor fans, with thousands turning out to greet him at his presentation in the hope his world renown will help the club challenge the big boys of Turkish football in the near future.

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Soldado was unsure of Spain call

Roberto Soldado has conceded that he wasn’t sure he would make the final cut for Spain’s squad to go to the Confederations Cup.
The Valencia striker was seen as one of the three names Vicente del Bosque was most likely to cut from his provisional 26-man squad to take to Brazil this summer.
However, even in Xabi Alonso’s withdrawal, Del Bosque selected the 28-year-old ahead of midfielders Javi Garcia and Benat Etxebarria.
“If I am honest, I wasn’t sure. The competition is very high and I’m happy to have made the final list,” reflected Soldado to reporters today.
“I want to give encouragement to those who have been left out. No one will be given anything in the national team as they are world and European champions.
“For me it is a dream to be here, I am very excited. Being here is always special, particularly when you are playing in a major tournament like the Confederations Cup.”
Soldado will be working under a new Coach next term at Valencia, after Ernesto Valverde decided not to renew his contract, with Miroslav Djukic on the verge of coming in.
“I renewed and I want to stay at Valencia to return the team to the Champions League.
“Regarding Djukic, he comes with enthusiasm and to get results, which is what we all want.”

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Perez: No Higuain-Juve talks

Florentino Perez has indicated that negotiations for Gonzalo Higuain’s sale this summer have yet to begin.
The Argentine has been strongly linked with a move to Juventus and on the last day of the season confirmed his desire to leave the Santiago Bernabeu after seven years.
However, Madrid’s President has assessed the situation as it stands at the moment and indicated that a sale is not so imminent.
“We have never received an offer for him and he has never told me that he wants to leave,” Perez told Punto Pelota this week.
“It is not easy to leave if your club don’t want to let you go. However, Juventus are a team who we have a friendship with.
“If they are interested then we can talk. I’ll speak with the player on Sunday and then we’ll make a decision.
“If he does leave then it won’t be for economical reasons.”
Reports in Italy have it that the player will be the subject of negotiations between Madrid and Juve in a meeting set for June 9.

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Riki explains Depor exit

 Riki has bid farewell to Deportivo today, confirming that his decision not to renew his contract was tough, but taken back in December.
The 32-year-old, who has been with Depor since 2006, leaves this summer on a free transfer having failed to agree a new deal with the Galicians.
“Mentally I was not ready to leave Deportivo. But, I had taken the decision long ago and that was that,” Riki told reporters today.
Despite Depor’s season ending in last-day relegation, Riki enjoyed a personal best 13 goals in the top flight.
“It has been three tough years. At a mental level I have suffered enough stress and I need a change of scenery. I’m sad, I’m sorry for the team’s situation.
“My dream was to leave with them in the Primera Division, I tried up until the end, but things did not go as we planned.
“In the time I have been here I have given as much of me as I can and I think I can leave with my head held high and with a clear conscience.
“I will always carry Deportivo in my heart and this is a very difficult decision.
“I made it in December, when the team went into bankruptcy and we didn’t speak and negotiations went stagnant.”

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Torres glad for Roja return

Fernando Torres has enthused at his return to the Spanish national team and has outlined La Roja’s determination to win the Confederations Cup.
The Chelsea striker ended a brief absence from Vicente del Bosque’s plans to return to La Seleccion in this week’s final 23-man cut for the summer trip out to Brazil.
“It’s a joy to be here for a tournament like this that we have never won, and for me to make the group,” Torres told reporters today.
“We are looking forward, we want to be the last team in the tournament and to come back with the trophy.
“I missed the last two squads and it has always been that to be selected takes a lot.
“It is not easy, there are many teammates who are doing well, but the end of the season has been very good for my team and me.
“I had the ambition to return and I now want to play and train and keep doing things well.”
Torres reiterated Del Bosque’s sentiments about the group’s motivation.
“You have to come with the enthusiasm of the first day because when a team has already won, they cannot lose the desire and hunger, and we will not miss it.”
After the competition, Torres will return to Stamford Bridge where he will be working under former Real Madrid Coach Jose Mourinho.
“There were a lot of rumours and now it is confirmed. But first we have a very nice challenge ahead of us in the Confederations Cup, which will require 100 per cent.
“Once completed we can think about next season, with hope and knowing that we have a very demanding Coach.”

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Neymar presentation draws 56,500 fans

Neymar’s presentation as a Barcelona player on Monday evening drew 56,500 fans to the Camp Nou, reports AS.
The excitement generated by the Brazilian’s arrival from Santos was comparable to the arrival of Zlatan Ibrahimovic in July 2009, with the scenes around the stadium more reminiscent of a match day than the signing of a new player.
Just after 6.30pm local time the 21-year-old, who had just signed his five-year contract in the club’s offices, appeared on the pitch to the delight of the supporters with the Barcelona anthem being played in the background.
After showing off his skills with the ball and kicking some of them into the stands, Neymar then addressed the gathered masses and, to the surprise of the public, said a few words in Catalan expressing his ‘delight to have become a Barca player’.
“This is more than just a club and I already realise that. I want to help the team and I am living a dream. I want to help Messi to carry on being the best player in the world,” he continued in his native Portuguese.
He then posed for the media before giving away balloons, while some Barca fans had a dig at eternal rivals Real Madrid by chanting “Florentino, en Madrid, no hay mar ni Neymar” – “Florentino [Perez], in Madrid, there’s no sea and no Neymar”.
Afterwards, Neymar appeared at a Press conference alongside director of football Andoni Zubizarreta and Vice-President Josep Maria Bartomeu.
“I’m really happy to be fulfilling a dream. This is a great day for me and my family,” he told reporters.
“It’s one more thing God has given me in my life, getting the chance to play alongside important players who I admire like Messi, Xavi and Iniesta.
Today is the start of a new chapter in my life. I’m going to have a lot of happy times and victories.
“With the emotion of entering the Camp Nou and being greeted I found it hard not to cry. I’m living my dream.
“I’ve never worried about being the best in the world because the best is here in Lionel Messi. I’m one of the luckiest men around to be able to play alongside him. It’s an honour.
“Barca and Madrid are two great clubs and I’m happy both of them wanted me, but my heart was with Barca. It was a family decision. However, it was me that had the final word. I’ve never done anything for money. I’m not motivated by it.” he explained.
Buy your La Liga tickets with Viagogo, the secure ticket marketplace

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Iniesta: Messi will make Neymar better

Barcelona midfielder Andres Iniesta believes Lionel Messi will make Neymar even better when he arrives at the Camp Nou, and vice versa.
“The great players always understand each other. Leo will make Neymar better and Neymar will make Leo better. It’s a team game and the sum of everything is what makes this club win things,” Iniesta told a Press conference on Monday.
“Neymar will contribute a lot because he has a talent that is far above the normal. He is spectacular and has a long career ahead of him, so he has come to the right club.
“Each person does what they want to do with their life whilst also respecting the rules of the club,” he added, on being asked about the Brazilian’s lifestyle.
Iniesta also spoke about the upcoming Confederations Cup.
“I couldn’t play in the last Confederations Cup and it’s a competition that Spain hasn’t won, so we’ll be going into it with hopes of doing well and being able to win it.”

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Neymar: I'll Help Messi Stay Top

Now that Neymar is a Barcelona player, the football world is excited to see how he will play alongside the Catalan club’s undisputed leading player, Lionel Messi.

Neymar has been touted as the most credible challenger to Messi’s throne as the king of football, and for that reason it would almost have made dramatic sense for him to join Real Madrid, who did fail in last-minute bid to hijack his transfer from Santos.

Already some pundits have suggested that there is no space for two ‘captains’ in the Barca line-up, and that ultimately Messi and Neymar are destined for an ego-driven slugfest to claim the Camp Nou limelight.

However, upon his revelation as an official Barca player, 21-year-old Neymar has sought to dispel the suggestion that he is at the club to dethrone La Pulga Atomica.

He may represent almost 20 brands on billboards and commercials across South America, star in popular soap operas and rate as the most marketable athlete on the planet, but Neymar insists he will be happy to play second fiddle to Messi.

In fact, Neymar says that he will take joy in helping Messi to retain his status as the best player in the world.

"Barca is more than a club and a great team and I want to contribute to Messi staying the best for many years," Neymar said in his first press conference as a Barca player.

"It is a great day for me and my family," he added later.

"Having the chance to play with so many important players whom I have admired since I was a child is something I have to thank god for.

"I have never been concerned about winning the Ballon d'Or or being the best player in the world.

"The best player is already here and that's Messi. And now I can see him from close up and help him."

Neymar arrives at Barcelona as Iniesta lauds potential partnership with Messi

BARCELONA star Andres Iniesta has backed summer signing Neymar to be a big hit at the Nou Camp, as the Brazilian arrived in Spain to complete his five-year-deal with the Catalan club.

 Brazilian prodigy Neymar has arrived at the Nou Camp to seal his five-year contract with Barcelona

Neymar will link up with Iniesta and the rest of the Barcelona squad next season after agreeing a five-year deal with the Catalan club.

The transfer fee Barcelona paid to Santos is thought to be at least £50m, but Iniesta claims the Brazilian has come "to the best place to grow" in the Spanish champions.

"He can bring us a lot because he is very talented player," said Iniesta. "He brings his ability to break down defences, to score, and to entertain. He is young. He has a long path ahead of him, and he is coming to the best place to grow."

21-year-old Neymar will link up with Spanish star Andres Iniesta and Argentine Lionel Messi at Barca

Great players always understand one another. Leo will be make Neymar better, and Neymar will make Leo better

Andres Iniesta

Any concerns over Neymar's impending partnership with Argentinian forward Lionel Messi have been downplayed by Iniesta, who feels the two South Americans will compliment each other.
 
"He is coming to the best possible place for him," Iniesta continued. "Let him do what he does best, that is enough. It is great news that we can count on him. Surrounded by the people he will have here, he will get better and better. 

"Great players always understand one another. Leo will be make Neymar better, and Neymar will make Leo better."
Neymar was linked with both Manchester City and Chelsea before completing his move to Spain.

 
Ineista has said Neymar and Lionel Messi will compliment each other at the Nou Camp

Barcelona have also announced the schedule for Neymar's first day at the club;

12:00: Photo session with the player at the Club offices.

Followed by medical check at Hospital de Barcelona.

The medical examination will continue in the Medical Centre at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper

16:00: Doors to Camp Nou open for members and fans.

16:45: Signing of contract in the Club offices.

17:45: Photo session before FCB crest outside Club offices (access 11) with president Sandro Rosell, vice president Josep M. Bartomeu and director of sport Andoni Zubizarreta.

18:15: Open doors presentation ceremony of Neymar as an FC Barcelona player, in the Camp Nou.

19:30: Presentation press conference in the Auditori 1899.

 
Neymar waves to the Catalan club's support after clinching his move from Santos

FC Barcelona are also providing a live stream of Neymar's arrival on the club's official website.

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Cristiano Ronaldo’s looking for right move

CRISTIANO RONALDO has fuelled speculation he could leave Real Madrid this summer by putting his stunning villa up for sale.

Cristiano Ronaldo has put his mansion on the market

A Madrid-based property agency have begun advertising the seven-bedroom house – which boasts two swimming pools – on their website at an eye-watering £5million.

It’s important to build a team around a brand and a player like Ronaldo.

Former Real Madrid defender Michel Salgado

Ronaldo has two years remaining on his contract at the La Liga side but has insisted he will not sign a new one – meaning Real will have to sell either this summer or next to recoup a large proportion of the world record £80m transfer fee they paid Manchester United for the 28-year-old Portuguese winger in 2009.

United officials have played down suggestions they will buy him back, despite the many rumours about his return to Old Trafford, but Qatari-backed Paris Saint-Germain have made no secret of their ambition to add him to their stellar cast list.

However, former Real defender Michel Salgado says it is vital for his former club to keep Ronaldo at the Bernabeu.

“He is now the most important player we have got in our club,” said Salgado. “What will be important is that the next manager and their project can offer him what he wants to keep going with Real Madrid.

“I don’t think it’s about money or that he is demanding too much. He has two more years on his contract and what he wants is a project for the long term. It’s important to build a team around a brand and a player like Ronaldo.”

 

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England's future is in safe hands

WHEN I told family and friends the European Under-21 Championship was being held in Israel, the response had nothing to do with football: “Make sure you take your tin hat and flak jacket.”

 
Jack Butland is feeling at home in Israel

Switch on the news and on almost any day there will be bombs landing in some parts of the Middle East.

But the reality is that life goes on pretty much as normal in Israel’s biggest city, Tel Aviv, and the eight million people who make up this country are fiercely proud to be hosting their first major football tournament.

It begins today in Netanya, when Israel meet Norway this afternoon before England face Italy in Tel Aviv in the evening.

And it is fair to assume that England goalkeeper Jack Butland will not be dodging rocks, stones and torn up seats, like he did in his last competitive fixture for the Under-21s, the notorious hate-fuelled play-off second leg in Serbia in October.

“I was getting a lot more from behind the goal than I was from in front of the goal,” said Butland.

“That’s what we had to deal with. We knew our place in the European Championship was on the line.

“There was no point messing around and winding up the fans even more.

“What we were put through was an extreme test and we handled it incredibly.

“Yeah, we were getting things thrown at us and yet we knew if we kept a clean sheet we would go through. We absorbed it, we took it in and we didn’t let it affect us. We were very disciplined in the way we dealt with it and that’s what got us to here.”

Here in the Holy Land, England will play their third group game against Israel in Jerusalem itself.

Avi Luzon, the head of the Israeli Football Association, is delighted to have attracted the eight-team mini-tournament to his country and predicts there will be no security problems despite the fact his nation is surrounded by Arab countries with tension constantly in the air.

Luzon, a close friend of UEFA president Michel Platini, said: “We have had to deal with security issues for many years, so this will be no different.

“We want the rest of Europe to enjoy what they are seeing. It is easily the biggest tournament Israel has hosted and we are determined it will be a success.”

There will be a security presence at all the games but no military one, unlike at the London Olympic Games. The arguments for taking these finals to the world’s sole Jewish state are compelling.

Israel is a football-mad nation and domestic matches between rival teams are often attended by thousands of Arabs and Jews alike, without violence.

Also, the African Nations Cup was recently held in war-torn Angola, while the World Cup finals were hosted by South Africa, which has one of the world’s highest crime rates.

 
Avi Luzon is delighted to have attracted the Under-21s to Israel

It feels like home. The weather is wonderful and there is nothing else to worry about.

Jack Butland

Luzon says thousands of fans travel to England and Spain every week to attend Premier League and La Liga matches, while attendances for big games in Israel are, in relation to the size of their country, significant.

“This is a football-mad country and it is by a long distance the biggest sport amongst all sections of society,” he said. “Dealing with security is an endless issue, but we have good intelligence. It will be an issue but we are very confident we will have a peaceful and enjoyable tournament.”

The eight teams involved – hosts Israel, England, Norway, Italy, Germany, Spain, Holland and Russia – represent the cream of young talent on the continent and will play their matches in front of largely sell-out crowds in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Netanya and Petah Tikva.

“The Israeli games will be sold out and the others will be very close,” said Luzon.

The standard of football in Israel is also high as both Maccabi Tel Aviv and Maccabi Haifa would probably survive in the Premier League and most leagues in Europe have players who were born within its borders.

England are based at a five-star golf resort near Netanya, about 20 miles north of Tel Aviv.

Butland said: “You read about things you could be worried about in any country but the people have been very friendly and the hotel is fantastic. It feels like home. The weather is wonderful and there is nothing else to worry about.

“I’ve had no problems with anything so far and I’m sure there won’t be any in this tournament.”

When asked if he had detected any extra security, Butland replied: “No, and I don’t think there is any reason for it either.”

An England spokesman said: “The FA had no qualms about coming to Israel and we were sure all the appropriate security measures had been taken.”

Let us hope it is a huge success and, anyway, it cannot possibly be any worse than Serbia, where Butland spent the match wondering what was behind him, as opposed to in front.

 

 

copied from express.co.uk

 

Stuart Pearce is ready to stay on as Under-21s boss

STUART PEARCE says he will hold talks with the FA later this month after insisting for the first time he is keen to carry on as England Under-21 manager.

 
Stuart Pearce loves working with England's youngsters

Pearce has been in charge of England’s youngsters for six years and has led them to four straight Euro finals.

He has been linked with a return to club management at Wigan, but instead wants to carry on with the U 21s and will speak to his FA bosses after the finals, which finish on June 18.

Pearce said: “I’m looking forward to seeing Sir Trevor Brooking with regard to my future. I’m absolutely delighted with the job I do.

I’m absolutely delighted with the job I do

Stuart Pearce

“I really enjoy working with young players, have a real passion for it and I look forward to sitting down with the FA in two weeks’ time.

“I’ve had a fantastic relationship with [departing FA chairman] David Bernstein and I would fully expect [new FA chairman] Greg Dyke to come in and be a full part of the decision-making process. If Sir Trevor decides he’s dealing with it personally, fine. ”

England face Italy tonight in their first fixture, with Norway and hosts Israel to follow.

Pearce is sweating on striker Wilfried Zaha, who has a long-standing ankle injury, but he is confident England can reach the knockout stages. He said: “Italy are an outstanding attacking force. They are well organised, work hard and they will make a good impression.”

If England avoid defeat tonight Pearce should lead his side into the semis, where one of Spain, Germany, Holland or Russia will await.

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Roberto Martinez can raid Wigan

DAVE WHELAN will not prevent Roberto Martinez taking Wigan’s top stars with him to Everton – as long as the price is right.

 There is no agreement preventing Roberto Martinez signing Wigan players at Everton

Martinez is expected to be confirmed as David Moyes’ successor in the next 24 hours after Wigan chairman Whelan agreed a compensation package with his Everton counterpart Bill Kenwright yesterday.

And as relegated Wigan faced up to life in the Championship, Whelan admitted he cannot expect players such as Arouna Kone, Shaun Maloney, James McCarthy and Callum McManaman to drop down from the top flight, while warning Everton they will not get them on the cheap.

Martinez will not have to pay a fee for defender Antolin Alcaraz, who is out of contract and a free agent.

Whelan said: “There is no agreement for Roberto not to sign our players. It is unfair and I don’t believe in that. If Everton want to sign any of our players for the right amount of money, we will consider it.

“We have to face every single thing that relegation presents us. It is normally the case certain players want to play in the Premier League and I can’t blame them for that.

 
Dave Whelan now needs to find a replacement for Roberto Martinez

If Everton want to sign any of our players for the right amount of money, we will consider it.

Wigan chairman Dave Whelan

“Players sign contracts but sometimes one or two want to leave and it is difficult to stop them. Players are players and I believe in freedom in football. But we have a lot of players who are loyal to Wigan Athletic, so we will just wait and see.”

Whelan’s priority is to sift through a number of applications to take over from Martinez.

Former Bolton boss Owen Coyle is the favourite, with Manchester United coach Rene Meulensteen, former England manager Steve McClaren and MK Dons boss Karl Robinson also in the frame.

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Arsenal forward Olivier Giroud says he would welcome Younes Belhanda with 'open arms'

ARSENAL forward Olivier Giroud has given his thumbs up to Younes Belhanda.

Younes Belhanda has been on Arsenal's radar for a while

The Montpellier midfielder has been pining for a move, following an underwhelming season for his club, as they finished outside the European places.

Belhanda has also piqued Spurs' interest, as they look to provide more cutting edge in the middle of the park.

Giroud, who weighed in with 10 goals during his debut season, says Belhanda could cut it in the Premier League.

"I would welcome him with open arms," Giroud told French paper L'Equipe.

"He called me to ask for advice about the Premier League. He has the basics with the engine and the physique cut out for this league.

Olivier Giroud believes Younes Belhanda has the necessary attributes to cope in the Premier Leagu

Olivier Giroud gives seal approval for Younes Belhanda

"He would just have to work a bit athletically to be able to handle the physical impact of the tackles."

Belhanda, who has burnt his bridges with Montpellier chairman, Louis Nicollin, could fetch up to £12.8m.

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FA suspend Spurs midfielder Andros Townsend for four months following betting probe

SPURS midfielder Andros Townsend has felt the full force of the FA after he was suspended for four months and fined £18,000 in relation to a betting offence.

 
Andros Townsend has been hit with a £18,000 fine

Three months of Townsend's suspension has been suspended until 1 July 2016.

Townsend has been banned from all football and football activity, subject to any appeal.

He voluntarily pulled out of the England Under-21 squad and was charged for breaking FA Rule E8, which covers misconduct in relation to betting.

Townsend had been on loan to QPR since January.

 

 

 

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Jesus Navas praises Manchester City after securing £17m move

MANCHESTER CITY'S latest signing Jesus Navas has talked up the Etihad outfit after Sevilla accepted an offer for the winger that could be worth up to £24 million.

 

 
Jesus Navas has spoken of new club Manchester City in glowing terms following his move from Sevilla

Last night the La Liga club confirmed that a bid from Manchester City for the Spanish international had been accepted, which is thought to be £17m up front which could raise to £24m based on add-ons.

And Navas wasted no time in talking up his new team, after revealing his representatives had been discussing a move with the deposed Premier League champions since earlier this year.

"We've been talking with Manchester City for four months," said Navas. "The decision is taken.

"There had been rumours (about Real Madrid), but Manchester City were in from the start and I had decided some time ago. It's a good project and it was the moment to make the step

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Manchester United in pole position to snaffle Benfica defender Ezequiel Garay

MANCHESTER UNITED are in pole position to snap up Ezequiel Garay in the transfer window.

 
Ezequiel Garay is backed to join Manchester United

The highly-rated left back was also linked with a return back to Real Madrid, with Fabio Coentrao tipped with a summer departure from the Bernebeu.

We reported earlier this year that United had acquired Garay after agreeing a £17m deal.

It seems that United have a 'gentlemen's agreement' in place and he could become David Moyes' first signing.

According to Portuguese publication Record, Garay is poised to join the Premier League champions for the above quoted transfer fee.

 
Garay could provide Patrice Evra (pictured) with competition if he were to move to Old Trafford

Manchester United favourites for Ezequiel Garay's signature

Though United aren't short of defensive options, Garay could provide competition for Patrice Evra, who is the undisputed No.1 left back at the club.

United had also previously been linked with a move for Garay's team-mate Nemanja Matic, although interest dissipated.

Garay, who racked up 41 appearances in all competitions for Benfica last season, was unable to help his side lift the league title, after they fell short to the eventual champions Porto.

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Whelen offers no transfer favours

Everton have been warned they will have to pay the full market value if prospective manager Roberto Martinez wants any of his former Wigan players.

Roberto Martinez is expected to be the next Everton manager

Latics chairman Dave Whelan admits he has struck no deal to prevent the Spaniard returning to cherry-pick their top stars, but if he does he will not get favourable treatment.
"If Everton want to sign any of our players for the right amount of money we will consider it," he told Press Association Sport.
"There is no agreement (to prevent Martinez returning for stars he nurtured at the DW Stadium). It is unfair and I don't believe in anything like that. It is normally the case certain players want to play in the Premier League and I can't blame them for that. Players sign contracts but sometimes one or two want to leave and it is difficult to stop them.
"Players are players and I believe in freedom in football. But we have a lot of players who are loyal to Wigan Athletic so we will just wait and see."
The Toffees have yet to conclude negotiations with Martinez over their vacant manager's position, but he is slowly edging closer to being confirmed as David Moyes' successor. Whelan is believed to have negotiated compensation of about £1.5million, but there may be further haggling required in order to secure a number of his trusted lieutenants.
With Moyes' coaching staff still on the books - there has yet to be any confirmation of which, if any, he will be taking to Manchester United - it remains to be seen what changes will be made. That may complicate Martinez's requirements as he is almost certain to want to bring assistant Graeme Jones, who followed him from Swansea to Wigan four years ago, and most likely others as well.
Everton are unwilling to be drawn into any pronouncements, public or otherwise, until the deal for Martinez is signed and sealed. They were moved to issue a statement on Monday night highlighting "regrettable and somewhat premature reports" - emanating from Whelan - that their search for a manager had been concluded.
Former striker Kevin Campbell believes the Spaniard will have an immediate impact at the club.
"It will be fascinating. I think he'll be a breath of fresh air," he told talkSPORT. "The way he plays the game, the fans are going to like the style and I think the players are going to improve, and that's really important."

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Sevilla snub Hammers Negredo bid

Sevilla president Jose Maria del Nido claims the club have rejected a 17million euro offer from West Ham for striker Alvaro Negredo, with the club under no pressure to sell after agreeing a deal to send Jesus Navas to Manchester City.

 
Sevilla don't want to sell Alvaro Negredo

Sevilla announced on Monday night they had agreed a fee, reportedly worth up to £24million (28million euros), with City for winger Navas, who is yet to complete the move as he is on international duty with Spain ahead of the Confederations Cup.
At a press conference on Tuesday, Del Nido said the Navas sale was beneficial to all parties as Sevilla look to rebuild after a season he branded a "failure", but insisted he wanted the in-demand Negredo to remain at the club.
"He has four years left on his contract," Del Nido said of the 27-year-old striker, who scored 31 goals in all competitions this past season.
"He is at home here. He has scored a lot of goals and delighted us with his football. The summer will tell us in due course if he will still be with us, but if you ask my opinion I'd rather there were no bids. West Ham offered 17million (£14.5million) in cash with more in incentives but we do not value the offer and the player refused."
In contrast, it seems City more than met Del Nido's expectations in terms of an offer for their 27-year-old winger Navas.
"I think this is a great deal for both parties," he said. "They player had said personally to us and then publicly to the media that he wanted to leave. He believed his time in Sevilla was over having contributed all that he could. The price at which we have sold Jesus Navas is an amount much higher than we thought they were going to offer, especially as there was only one bidder."
With that transfer fee swelling the club's coffers, only similar high bids now seem likely to persuade Del Nido to part with others.
"We do not yet know the final figure (for Navas) as there are many variables and incentives in the deal," he said. "But we have no need to sell as this has covered our budget deficit."
Despite Del Nido's claims of a bid from the Hammers for Negredo, Press Association Sport believes the statement of a concrete offer is wide of the mark. It is understood there was some tentative interest from the London club earlier in the season but no bid was lodged.

 

 

 

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Wesley Sneijder eyes Jose Mourinho reunion at Chelsea

CHELSEA target Wesley Sneijder has hinted at a reunion with Jose Mourinho.

 

 
Wesley Sneijder won't rule out a move to Chelsea

Sneijder won the treble with Mourinho during their time at Inter Milan.

Do Chelsea need a playmaker?

Wesley Sneijder

He moved to Galatasaray in January but Mourinho is said to be keen on managing the 28-year-old again.

Sneijder said: “I have a great relationship with Jose Mourinho, we have kept in contact since our days at Inter Milan. Do Chelsea need a playmaker? I’m not sure. In football you can never be certain of what will happen next.”

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Yohan Cabaye the latest Newcastle star linked with Monaco

FRENCH international Yohan Cabaye could be set to return to his home nation this summer after cash-rich Ligue 1 side Monaco targeted the midfielder.

 
Monaco have been credited with an interest in Newcastle's French midfielder Yohan Cabaye

Cabaye was linked with Manchester United and Arsenal earlier in the season, but he stayed at Newcastle as they battled to avoid relegation.

However, the 27-year-old may be tempted to head for pastures new this summer after he became the latest transfer target for money-bags Monaco, according to regional North East newspaper The Northern Echo.

The French side have just been promoted to the French top-flight and Russian billionaire owner Dmitry Rybolovlev is determined to make a splash in the transfer market this summer, having shelled out £110 million on just three players already.

 
The cash-rich Ligue 1 side have also been linked with winger Hatem Ben Arfa

Monaco's interest in Cabaye follows their reported £10m bid for Hatem Ben Arfa

Porto pair James Rodriguez and Joao Moutinho completed a £60m double move last month, while Falcao secured his protracted £50m switch along with Ricardo Carvalho on a free transfer.

Monaco's interest in Cabaye follows their reported £10m bid for Hatem Ben Arfa, with Alan Pardew likely to be forced to fend off interest in his best players after a difficult campaign.

In another blow for the Magpies, they look set to miss out on forward target Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

 

 

 

 

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David Pizarro's uncle talks up surprise Manchester City return

FIORENTINA midfielder David Pizarro has been tipped with a surprise return to Manchester City.

 David Pizarro has been linked with a return to Manchester City

The Chile international failed to leave a lasting impression after making seven appearances for the Citizens during the 2011/12 season.

After becoming a permanent fixture for La Viola since signing joining from Roma, it seems that he is ready once again for a fresh challenge.

The Citizens, who are expecting to confirm Manuel Pellegrini as their new manager, have already struck a deal for Sevilla winger Jesus Navas for an initial £17m fee which is expected to rise to £24m following add-ons.

Pizarro's uncle, Aurelio Cortez, has hinted at a return to City for his nephew.

 
David Pizarro during his loan spell at Manchester City

Once David signed autographs with the number eight but now he has changed to ten

David Pizarro's agent

"Once David signed autographs with the number eight but now he has changed to ten as that is his number for Chile and his next club, I think Pellegrini's Manchester City or AS Roma."

Pizarro netted once for City during his loan spell.

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Suspended ban and fine for Townsend

Tottenham winger Andros Townsend has been banned from all football and football activity for four months, three of which are suspended, after breaching betting regulations.

 
Andros Townsend has been banned after breaching betting regulations

An independent regulatory commission hearing imposed the sanction, which has been backdated to May 23 when he voluntarily withdrew from the England Under-21 squad.
However, a statement released by the Football Association revealed that the three months of the ban have been suspended until July 1 2016.
They will be automatically invoked upon a proven breach of the FA's betting rules during that period.
"Townsend, who was also fined £18,000, was charged for breaches of FA Rule E8(b) for misconduct in relation to betting, which he admitted and requested a personal hearing," read the statement.
With Townsend's ban effectively reduced to one month, the 21-year-old will be available for the start of the 2013-14 Barclays Premier League season.
He spent a successful loan spell at QPR, arriving at Loftus Road in January, and while the club were relegated he received frequent praise from manager Harry Redknapp.
Once the FA had charged him with breaching their betting regulations, he pulled out of England's squad for the European Under-21 Championship in Israel and was replaced by Birmingham's Nathan Redmond. Townsend was not accused of betting on matches he had any involvement in, but the FA operates strict rules that forbid gambling on a wide spectrum of games.
Townsend used his Twitter account to say he would not appeal the sanctions.
"Following a personal hearing at the FA and the statement issued today, I fully accept the disciplinary action and shall not be appealing," Townsend wrote. "This has been a regrettable experience from which I fully intend to come back stronger...now I'm fully focused on returning to football during pre-season & determined for this indiscretion to not tarnish my career moving forward."

 

 

 

 

 

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Mourinho: English game still strong

Jose Mourinho insists he is returning to a strong Barclays Premier League, despite the failure of English clubs in Europe's elite competition this season.

 Jose Mourinho says the Premier League is still strong

Chelsea ended Mourinho's six-year exile in Italy and Spain on Monday when they reappointed him manager and he will be officially unveiled at a press conference at Stamford Bridge next Monday.
"The Champions League is a thermometer of world football and English football was out of the competition too early," he told Chelsea TV.
"People were speaking about the level of the Premier League going down compared with other countries, but I don't believe that. Sometimes things happen when there are no reasons. But the Premier League is still a fantastic competition and I believe five or six teams are very strong.
"When I was here before it was more about us, Man United and Arsenal and after that there was a gap to the other teams. Now you can put five or six teams in the same plan, aiming to reach the Champions League spots which is very difficult, with those with more ambition aiming to win the Premier League. The competition will be fantastic and I hope I can beat the other clubs."
While the Portuguese's first reign ended in acrimony after his relationship with owner Roman Abramovich soured, his arrival heralded the start of the most successful period in the club's history.
The summit of his achievements were Premier League crowns in 2005 and 2006, and his track record of domestic success - he has also won championships in Portugal, Italy and Spain - have raised expectations he will break the three-year duopoly of Manchester United and City.
Chelsea fans will expect Mourinho's return to be accompanied by a spending spree as Abramovich arms his manager with the funds to reclaim a title they last won in 2010 when Carlo Ancelotti was at the helm. But the 50-year-old insists that drawing the best from his existing squad will be his most pressing concern and refuses to prioritise any silverware.
"We have to improve the team, but when I say improve the team people are already thinking about how many millions Chelsea will spend. When I say improve the team, I mean through work," he said.
"My work has to improve players and improve the team. If I don't do that I am not happy with myself. If after that we can improve the team by buying a couple of players it is fantastic, but I have to improve the team and the players with my work."

 

 

 

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David Villa to assess future in summer amid Tottenham interest

BARCELONA striker David Villa has revealed he will consider his next move after this summer's Confederations Cup, with Tottenham interested in signing him.

 
Is that the way to White Hart Lane? David Villa could leave Barcelona for Tottenham this summer

Villa has been regularly linked a move away from the Nou Camp in recent months, as he struggled to secure a first-team spot in Tito Vilanova's side.

And Spain's all-time record goalscorer has refused to commit his future to Barcelona, after Tottenham manager Andre Villas-Boas spoke of his admiration for the ex-Valencia star.

Arsenal were thought to be in talks with the La Liga champions in January over a deal for Villa, and he has opened the door to the possibility of leaving the Catalan Club after his international duties are finished for the season.

 
The Spanish marksman (centre, right) says he will consider his future after the Confederations Cup

We'll need to analyse many things during the summer and then we'll see

David Villa

"I always try to think of the present," said Villa. "I will go to the Confederations Cup and try to play a good role there.

"We'll need to analyse many things during the summer and then we'll see.

"Right now I'm not thinking about anything else than playing football."

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Whelan: Everton bids would be considered

Roberto Martinez will be free to cherry-pick players from Wigan once his expected appointment at Everton is confirmed.

 Dave Whelan, right, knows Roberto Martinez, left, may try and take some Wigan players to Everton

Martinez is expected to be confirmed as David Moyes' successor in the next 48 hours and the Spaniard has already been linked with potential moves for the likes of highly-rated midfielder James McCarthy and forwards Arouna Kone and Callum McManaman - a former Toffees trainee - from Wigan.
"There is no agreement. It is unfair and I don't believe in anything like that," Whelan told Press Association Sport. "If Everton want to sign any of our players for the right amount of money we will consider it."
Whelan is believed to have negotiated compensation of about £1.5million for Martinez's services.
And while he would hope to be able to hang on to key players as the club seek to bounce back from their relegation to the npower Championship at the first opportunity he accepts the lure of the top flight is a strong one.
"We have to face every single thing that relegation presents us," he added.
"It is normally the case certain players want to play in the Premier League and I can't blame them for that.
"Players sign contracts but sometimes one or two want to leave and it is difficult to stop them.
"Players are players and I believe in freedom in football.
"But we have a lot of players who are loyal to Wigan Athletic so we will just wait and see."

 

 

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Roberto Martinez switch from Wigan to Everton is sealed

ROBERTO MARTINEZ is set to become the new manager of Everton after chairman Bill Kenwright chose the Spaniard to lead the club forward.

 
Roberto Martinez is set to discuss personal terms at Everton

A compensation package in the region of £1.5million was agreed between Kenwright and Wigan owner Dave Whelan yesterday for Martinez, who will now discuss personal terms on his switch to Goodison Park.

“Bill Kenwright and myself have agreed a deal,” said Whelan.

As revealed by the Daily Express, Martinez, 39, has been the frontrunner to replace David Moyes, who is succeeding Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United, and was interviewed last week.

Kenwright considered several candidates, including former Schalke coach Ralf Rangnick and receiving inquiries about the vacancy from a host of current Premier League managers.

But Everton have been keen to appoint a manager rather than a coach with Premier League experience as they look to continue the work Moyes and Kenwright have done together in rebuilding the club.

Martinez lifted the FA Cup with Wigan last season but, just three days after that historic Wembley success, they were relegated to the Championship.

Bill Kenwright has settled on Roberto Martinez as the man to take Everton forward

Bill Kenwright and myself have agreed a deal

Wigan chairman Dave Whelan

He informed Whelan 10 days ago that he wanted to leave the DW Stadium after four years at the helm and would seek a fresh start.

A final round of talks with Kenwright will now include which members of his backroom staff Martinez wants to bring with him from Wigan – with assistant Graeme Jones, goalkeeping coach Inaki Bergara, chief scout Kevin Reeves and fitness coach Richard Evans all having been tipped to make the move.

Everton will hope a role can be found in the set-up for former players Phil Neville, Alan Stubbs and David Weir, who were all internal candidates to succeed Moyes.

Whelan has drawn up a shortlist to replace Martinez that features Brighton’s Gus Poyet, ex-Bolton boss Owen Coyle and Manchester United assistant Rene Meulensteen.

Poyet could soon be available after he and his assistants, Mauricio Taricco and Charlie Oatway, were all suspended by Brighton last month due to a dispute with the owners. A resolution is expected this week.

Everton’s Neville has been tipped to replace Poyet should he leave.

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Chelsea keeper Thibaut Courtois wants Villa striker Christian Benteke to join him in Spain

ATLETICO MADRID could field Belgian pair Thibaut Courtois and Christian Benteke next season, after the on-loan Chelsea goalkeeper talked up the Villa forward as Falcao's replacement.

Chelsea's Thibaut Coutois (right) has sung the praises of Belgian team-mate Christian Benteke (left)

Atletico are in the market for a proven goalscorer this summer after coveted hitman Falcao secured a £50 million move to French money-bags Monaco.

And Aston Villa's Benteke - who scored 19 Premier League goals in his debut campaign in English football - has been suggested as the Colombian's replacement at the Vicente Calderon by Courtois.

"He's a very strong centre-forward," said Courtois. "Tall, but with very good technique and skilful with the ball at his feet.

 
Benteke has reportedly told Aston Villa he wants to leave although Paul Lambert says he will stay

I think that he could be a great signing for Atletico. During these days with the national team I am going to ask him about his future

Thibaut Courtois

"I think that he could be a great signing for Atletico. During these days with the national team I am going to ask him about his future."

Courtois' own future is up in the air, with Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho expected to make a decision on whether to bring the emerging shot-stopper back to Stamford Bridge or not in the coming weeks.

But the 21-year-old appears happy to stay in the Spanish capital for now and has urged Benteke to join him after lavishing praise on his international team-mate.

 
Courtois may spend another year on loan at Atletico, with Jose Mourinho set to decide on his future

"I know him well, we played together when we were young," continued Courtois. "Benteke is a player who has worked hard, he left Genk and had several loans spells that has helped him grow.

"He had a sensational 2011/12 season with Genk and that led to the attention from the Premier League."

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