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Benfica reunion the perfect chance for Luiz & Ramires to go from Brazil boys to men
The two men have been steadily emerging as leaders of the new Chelsea in recent months and Wednesday will show whether they are ready to take up the mantle of the old guard
Lampard agrees one-year Chelsea contract extension
The England midfielder and Blues all-time leading goal scorer has rejected a move to LA Galaxy after finally agreeing a deal to stay at Stamford Bridge for one more season
Lampard can make the difference for Chelsea, says Ola John
The winger has praised the experienced midfielder ahead of Wednesday's final and believes the Blues are a very different team to the one that won the Champions League last term
Rio Ferdinand retires from international football
The seven-time captain last represented England in June 2011, missing out on the Euro 2012 squad due to "footballing reasons" before rejecting a call-up in March 2013
Bayern will not bid for Rooney, claims Sammer
The 27-year-old shocked Manchester United with his desire to leave in the summer but the Bavarians' sporting director is adamant that there are no plans to pursue the forward
Chelsea aim for historic Europa League final victory
The Blues could join Bayern Munich, Ajax and Juventus in an elite group of clubs to have won all three major Uefa trophies but face in Benfica a team with European pedigree
Walcott hails 'important goal' that puts Arsenal on brink of Champions League qualification
The England winger believes that his strike in Tuesday's 4-1 victory over Wigan was one of his most crucial yet, but he remains focused on Sunday's game against Newcastle
Arsenal midfielder Arteta a 'massive doubt' for end-of-season clash against Newcastle, reveals Wenger
The Spanish playmaker was substituted in stoppage time against Wigan, replaced by Thomas Vermaelen, and could miss the Gunners' trip to St James' Park with a calf problem
Italy must copy England and Spain's racism policy, says Capello
The 66-year-old has weighed in on the debate after Mario Balotelli was again targeted by supporters and insists the country must begin to punish those found guilty more firmly
Chelsea deserve credit for reaching Europa League final, insists Benitez
The Blues boss believes that it is important for the west London club to carry on winning trophies and is adamant that he has done a good job under difficult circumstances
Garrone: It would be a dream to appoint Mancini
The Italian coach is sure to be in demand after being sacked by Manchester City on Monday, but he will not be returning to one of his former clubs
Moyes keen to continue Manchester United traditions
The 50-year-old will take over from Sir Alex Ferguson on July 1 on a six-year deal and hopes to bring talented youngsters from the club’s youth ranks through into the first team
Mancini assistant Platt leaves Manchester City
Though offered an opportunity to remain in place, the Italian's No.2 becomes the first of an anticipated 10 departures from various levels of the coaching staff
'Arrogant, vain and self-centred' - Former Manchester City kitman blasts Mancini
Stephen Aziz, who worked at the club when the Italian led them to the Premier League title, described the outgoing manager and his ex-colleague as 'genuinely not a nice person'
Bale: I would love to play outside of Premier League
The Wales international has reaffirmed his desire to play for a foreign side at some stage in his career, but is focused on helping his current team secure a Champions League spot
'He is not God, but almost' - Hazard keen for a Mourinho return to Chelsea
The Blues midfielder admits he would love to see the Portuguese at Stamford Bridge next season, describing the Real Madrid boss as the "best coach in the world"
Fulham agree deal to sign Derek Boateng this summer
The Ghana midfielder was the west London club's guest for their recent home match against Reading, when he completed the formalities of a move to Craven Cottage
Mancini failed to get best out of dispirited Manchester City - Tueart
The former player feels the Italian's tendency to openly criticise those associated with the club ultimately caused a rift, and has backed Manuel Pellegrini to be a success
Rodgers eyes top-four push after adjusting to life at Liverpool
The Anfield boss believes his debut term in charge of the Reds has put him in good stead to challenge for a Champions League qualification place next season
Everton will be fine without Moyes, insists Howard
The goalkeeper says the "table is set" for the next manager to come in and continue the Toffees' success following the Scot's 11-year tenure at Goodison Park
Wenger refuses to rule out Arsenal move for Rooney
The Gunners boss was coy on reported interest in the unsettled Manchester United striker, insisting he is keen to focus on on-field matters
Moyes hails 'exceptional' Rooney
The Old Trafford-bound boss and the disgruntled striker are set to meet to clarify the player's position at the club ahead of the summer transfer window
Manchester is Red: United fans turn out in their droves to say farewell to Sir Alex Ferguson
Supporters climbed lamp posts, trees and scaffolding during the Red Devils' trophy parade to get the best view possible of a man who has delivered 26 years of unprecedented success
'Circus' could come to City after Mancini sacking, says Tiatto
The former Citizens captain is fearful of a period of instability for the club, but believes Manuel Pellegrini will be a success if he takes over
Mancini pays price for Manchester City stagnation
The timing of the announcement was unfortunate rather than malicious but a lack of identity and ideas make the decision to remove the Italian from his post the right one
Manchester United line up legends for coaching role
May 14, 2013 5:58:00 PM
New manager David Moyes is preparing to appoint a member of the club's old guard on his new-look Old Trafford backroom staff as he prepares for his first season at the club
By Wayne Veysey | Correspondent
Ryan Giggs, Phil Neville and Nicky Butt are in contention for a first-team role on David Moyes’ Manchester United coaching staff, Goal understands.
The trio, who graduated from the same United youth team in the mid-1990s before having stellar first-team careers at the club, have all been discussed for what is expected to be a single backroom position.
It is not yet known if Sir Alex Ferguson’s No.2 Mike Phelan and first-team coach Rene Meulensteen will remain in their current posts under the new regime.
Nevertheless, Moyes, who will officially replace Sir Alex as manager on July 1, is expected to appoint a senior coach who is a member of the United old guard and can be a conduit between the dressing room and the coaching staff.
The three men in the frame are 39-year-old midfielder and record United appearance-maker Giggs, Everton defender Neville and Butt, who has been coaching the club’s youth-team players for seven months.
Giggs, who has already completed his coaching badges, was pictured meeting Sir Alex and Moyes at a Cheshire hotel on Monday and could be offered a player-coach role.
Like Giggs, Neville, 36, also has management aspirations. He has announced that he will leave Everton at the end of the season, and England have confirmed that he will help coach the Under-21s at this summer’s European Championships.
Butt is the lowest profile of the trio but he is already making his mark as a coach. The 38-year-old has been coaching various United academy teams since last October, predominantly assisting Under-18s manager Paul McGuiness.
Revealed: Mancini's £7.5 million pay-off & Manchester City's 10-man coaching cull
May 14, 2013 10:36:00 AM
Key members of the former manager's backroom team including David Platt and Attilio Lombardo are set to follow the youth coaches axed on Monday
EXCLUSIVE
By Wayne Veysey | Chief Correspondent
Roberto Mancini will be handed a minimum £7.5 million pay-off as Manchester City execute an extensive cull of their former manager’s backroom staff.
At least 10 members of the club’s existing coaching staff are to be axed following a comprehensive review of the coaching operations at Etihad Stadium.
The exodus is set to be headed by first-team coach David Platt and the extended Italian entourage that includes Under-21s manager Attilio Lombardo, senior coach Fausto Salsano, fitness coach Ivan Carminati, goalkeeping coach Massimo Battara and defensive coach Angelo Gregucci.
The City sacking programme, which is believed to have been led by sporting director Txiki Begiristain, has been broadened to include coaches further down the coaching chain.
Goal.com understands that long-time City servants who work with the academy players Jim Cassell and Paul Power, along with Under-18s coach Adam Sadler, were all dismissed on Monday with immediate effect. Pete Lowe, the head of education and coaching, is also facing the axe.
However, Mancini’s No 2 Brian Kidd, who will take caretaker charge of the City team for the final two matches of the season, including Tuesday’s trip to Reading, is expected to remain with the club under the regime of the new manager.
Sources have said one possibility is that the popular 63-year-old takes on a senior role working with the academy at the Etihad Stadium campus.
Begiristain is understood to have been the driving force for the coaching overhaul following a root and branch review of the club’s backroom set-up since he joined City last October.
Mancini had four years remaining on his contract but the former Inter manager’s pay-off will be limited to 12 months’ salary should he get another job immediately.
Under the severance terms of the five-year contract he signed last summer, Mancini is set to receive an initial sum of £7.5m, which will be topped up for every month that he is out of work.
The 48-year-old is a target for super-rich French club Monaco, as well as Italian club Napoli.
Platt is also expected to receive a vast settlement figure if, as expected, he follows Mancini out of the exit door. The former England midfielder’s City salary is understood to be around £900,000-a-year.
'Heartbroken' Martinez refuses to discuss future as Wigan are relegated
By SAMI MOKBEL PUBLISHED: 21:50 GMT, 14 May 2013 | UPDATED: 23:58 GMT, 14 May 2013
Wigan on Tuesday night became the first FA Cup winners to suffer relegation in the same season. Manager Roberto Martinez, who has been strongly linked with replacing David Moyes at Everton, refused to commit his future to the club as their eight-year run in the top flight was ended by a crushing defeat at the Emirates. After Arsenal earned three points in their chase for the Champions League, Martinez said: ‘This day is the lowest of the low. I never thought this would happen. It’s a tough day for the club. We had an incredible eight years in the Premier League and we need to build for the future.
Down and out: Martinez believes his injury-hit defence ran out of luck over the season
‘Winning the FA Cup gave us hope of winning our final two games, but we have not been good enough defensively throughout the season. This is the complete opposite feeling to Wembley on Saturday.’ When asked about whether he will stay, the Spaniard replied: ‘Everyone is heartbroken, this is not the time to discuss individuals. We will review everything at the end of the season.’ This crushing setback came only 72 hours after the euphoria of Saturday’s Wembley triumph over Manchester City. And it was made even worse with Callum McManaman being carried off on a stretcher.
Hope: Wigan were handed a lifeline when Shaun Maloney equalised, but ultimately they fell short
Hit: Wigan lost 4-1 on the night but the damage had been done long before
Wigan, who join Reading and QPR in the Championship, will have to play Manchester United in the Community Shield a week after their league campaign begins. The result moved Arsenal back into fourth place, a point ahead of Tottenham, going into their last-day visit to Newcastle. But Mikel Arteta is a major doubt for the trip to St James’ Park after sustaining a calf injury in the dying moments of Tuesday night’s clash.
Highs: Martinez couldn't repeat the heroics of the last two years, despite being on a high after Saturday's dramatic FA Cup win over Manchester City
The Spaniard’s injury means manager Arsene Wenger could be forced to start Jack Wilshere even though he needs ankle surgery. Only victory on Sunday will guarantee a top-four spot for the Gunners and Wenger said: ‘I am confident we can hold our nerve because we have experience. ‘We’ve played for a long time under massive pressure and we have always found the solutions to the problems we have faced.’
Moyes keen to continue Manchester United traditions
By Shane Farrington
May 14, 2013 7:22:00 PM
The 50-year-old will take over from Sir Alex Ferguson on July 1 on a six-year deal and hopes to bring talented youngsters from the club’s youth ranks through into the first team
David Moyes has revealed he plans to carry on Manchester United's tradition of bringing through talented youngsters into the first team when he takes over from Sir Alex Ferguson on July 1.
Moyes was confirmed as the man chosen to replace his fellow Scot on May 9, after agreeing a six-year contract to move to Old Trafford when his deal at Everton expires at the end of the season.
Speaking at an address to the Cambridge Union, he is quoted by the Daily Mail as saying: "Manchester United have always relied hugely on young players and my priority will always be to promote these talents.
"It is the right way to go. We need to be producing better English players and we are working to find the solutions. My aim would be to develop these young English players and get more and more coming through.
"[However] There are issues to resolve. How do we get them more games at a competitive level? I like the Spanish model where there is a B team playing in the lower divisions. Could we implement the same here? That would be a starting point.
"Three years ago, I wanted to get the young Everton team into the Conference, as it would be a good place to compete. The FA told us we would have to start from the bottom - in division 27 or something!"
Azpilicueta: Benitez has made me a real Premier League player
The Spain right-back admits it has been tough to adapt to life in the Premier League, but credits his much-maligned manager for helping him to hit the ground running
Cech: Mourinho would be more than welcome at Chelsea
Despite the very real prospect of linking up with his former boss, the goalkeeper insists the squad’s immediate focus lies with Wednesday night’s Europa League final
Lukaku set for showdown Chelsea talks
The Merseysiders are among the favourites to sign the Belgian striker on loan should the Europa League finalists deem him not ready to compete for a first team place next season
Dortmund interested in Villa striker Benteke, claims agent
A representative for the Champions League finalists watched the 22-year-old score against Chelsea on Saturday, as they look for a replacement for the outgoing Robert Lewandowski
Kidd praises Manchester City players & staff following Mancini sacking
The Blues responded to Roberto Mancini's dismissal 24 hours earlier by beating Reading 2-0 on Tuesday night to finally clinch second spot in the Premier League
QPR striker Remy arrested on suspicion of rape along with cousin and friend
Player who earns £80k a week is held by Scotland Yard's sex crime squad
Woman, 34, alleges three men raped her last Monday in west London
Frenchman Remy signed for QPR in January for £8m but is expected to leave
By GRAEME YORKE PUBLISHED: 10:52 GMT, 15 May 2013 | UPDATED: 15:05 GMT, 15 May 2013
Queens Park Rangers striker Loic Remy has been arrested with his cousin and a friend on suspicion of rape. A 34-year-old woman claims she was raped by three men and the Metropolitan Police have arrested three men at an address in Fulham, west London. At this stage all three remain in custody.
Arrest: Loic Remy (left) was arrested on suspicion of rape of a woman believed to be in her thirties
The alleged victim visited the 26-year-old Premier League striker at his flat last week believing him to be alone. A police statement read: 'Officers from Sapphire are investigating an allegation of rape which happened on 6 May in the west London area.'The allegation was passed on to the MPS by Kent Police on 8 May after the 34-year-old female victim reported it to them on the previous day, 7 May. The victim alleges she was raped by three men.'On the morning of Wednesday, 15 May three men, [A] aged 26; aged 23; [C] 22 yrs, were arrested at an address in Fulham on suspicion of rape - they remain in custody at a west London police station.'
Goalscorer: Remy has performed well since joining Queens Park Rangers in the January window
Remy, who is paid £80,000 a week, joined QPR in January for £8million but was unable to help the team avoid relegation from the Premier League. He is expected to leave the west London club this summer, with top clubs such as Arsenal, Tottenham and Liverpool reported to be interested in signing him. Remy will hope to be available for the already-relegated Rangers' final game of the season away at Liverpool on Sunday. A QPR spokesman said: 'The club is aware of the allegations regarding Loic Remy, but due to police investigations is unable to comment.'
New boy: Remy (left) left Marseille for Queens Park Rangers four months ago
International: Remy has played for France 18 times, scoring four goals
The London duo may find themselves in the unique position of ending the season level on points, goal difference and goals scored should results fall into place on the final day
Arsenal and Chelsea could face the prospect of a play-off match to decide third place in the Premier League should they end the season on level terms.
In a unique end-of-season twist, the London rivals could find themselves locked together on points, goal difference and goals scored after the final round of fixtures on Sunday meaning an extra fixture to determine who seals the automatic Champions League spot would be required.
The Gunners have amassed 70 points after beating Wigan 4-1 at the Emirates Stadium on Monday night leaving them on the coattails of Rafael Benitez's Europa League finalists, who have accumulated 72 points.
Arsene Wenger's troops also slashed Chelsea's goal difference superiority to just one - 34 to 35 - and put themselves within reach of matching their goal tally having now netted 71 to the Blues' 73.
For the scenario to bud, Arsenal would have to beat Newcastle by a single goal and score two more than Chelsea should they draw at home to Everton, meaning a 0-0 draw at Stamford Bridge would require the Gunners to win 2-1 in the north east, and so on.
Should that situation transpire it would create a scheduling nightmare for the Premier League after Chelsea pencilled in two post-season friendlies with Manchester City in the United States on May 23 and 25, which they are unable to cancel.
Meanwhile, any hope of immediately staging the game at Wembley hinges on Chelsea's availability with the Champions League final being hosted at the stadium on May 25, the Championship play-off final on May 27 and England's friendly with the Republic of Ireland on May 29.
Michael Carrick named Manchester United Players' Player of the Year After a season in which the club won an historic 20th league title, the England midfielder scooped his personal prize while Robin van Persie won the Sir Matt Busby award
Mission accomplished? Benitez proud of Chelsea tenure as Torres targets long stay The interim manager declares his satisfaction at delivering a trophy for the Blues, while the £50 million striker announces his intention to remain at Stamford Bridge
'You never know' - Benitez leaves door open for PSG move The interim Chelsea boss, who guided the Blues to Europa League glory on Wednesday, refuses to rule out a switch to the Ligue 1 champions at the end of the season
Rafa's reputation restored with Europa League glory The Chelsea interim manager will depart Stamford Bridge this summer having sealed more silverware and Champions League football ahead of the likely arrival of Jose Mourinho
Ferguson: I told Manchester United I'd retire in March The 71-year-old revealed his decision in-house after his team had built up a lead in the Premier League and admits that it was tough to keep the news under wraps
'It looks good' - Lampard hints at new Chelsea deal after Europa League triumph The 34-year-old, who played the full 90 minutes as the Blues stunned Benfica in stoppage time, is expected to sign a one-year extension, having already agreed terms
Agger: Eriksen the kind of player Liverpool need The Danish centre-back would like to see his compatriot join the Reds from Ajax this summer, and says he would fit perfectly into Brendan Rodgers' style of passing play
Barton wants Marseille stay amid Premier League interest The QPR midfielder, on loan in Ligue 1, says he has received an offer from the French club and wants to sign with them despite having more financially attractive alternatives
I regret not winning the Premier League with Liverpool... but I'm not going to lose any sleep over it, admits retiring Carragher
By CARL MARKHAM, PRESS ASSOCIATION PUBLISHED: 14:51 GMT, 15 May 2013 | UPDATED: 17:47 GMT, 15 May 2013
Retiring Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher admits the one regret of his 16-year playing career was not winning the league title.The 35-year-old played a key part in the famous 2005 Champions League final victory over AC Milan but the top domestic prize just evaded his grasp. The closest he came to it was in 2008-09 when Liverpool's record Premier League points tally of 86 - a season in which they lost just two matches - was still only good enough for a runners-up place to Manchester United.
Facing the media: Jamie Carragher admits the one regret of his 16-year playing career was not winning the title
Since then Carragher believes the standard of the Premier League has dipped - along with Liverpool's chances of competing for the top four, never mind the title. 'I wish I'd have won the league but you've given it everything and done as much as you can in terms of what you put into it,' said the centre back, who will bow out at Anfield in his 737th and final match for the club against QPR. 'We weren't good enough, all of us. It's very simple, there's no fancy reason or excuse, other teams in that particular season were better than us.
'A couple of times we went close but it was Manchester United or Arsenal. It's not something I lose sleep over, I've been very lucky to achieve some of the things I have. 'If you look at everyone there's always something someone hasn't done. 'There's always more to achieve, whatever you've done. I'm pleased with how it's gone. 'If someone had offered me to be here until the end of my career - the trophies, the big games we've played and won, the stadiums I've played in - I'd have bitten their hand off for that.'Asked for his highlight, he stressed there was no contest.
'Istanbul, nothing will beat that - the Champions League final,' he added. 'It's difficult to ever top that. We've never won the league, which is a disappointment; if we'd have won that maybe I could have compared the two.
End of an era: Liverpool defender Carragher is retiring at the end of the season
'We've won FA Cups, Carling Cups, the UEFA Cup but nothing compared to the Champions League. 'It's the biggest and best trophy that you can win as a footballer in club football. It's what we achieved.'It's a team game; there are different managers and coaches who have helped you along the way, you do your best - I've done all right.'Carragher will become a television pundit next season despite the widely-held belief he would move straight into coaching.
Veteran: Carragher has enjoyed a 16-year playing stint for Liverpool
CARRAGHER'S CUPS
He may not have won the Premier League but these are the trophies Jamie Carragher has got his hands on:
Champions League - 2005 FA Cup - 2001, 2006 League Cup - 2001, 2003, 2012 UEFA Cup - 2001 UEFA Super Cup - 2001, 2005 Community Shield - 2001, 2006
Liverpool chairman Tom Werner has left the door open for him to return by offering him a job in the future. 'I really hope we see him back at the club one day because with all that experience and knowledge we know he has so much to offer,' he told the Liverpool Echo. 'Whether it's as a coach, an analyst or whatever, there will always be a job for him here.'Carragher, however, is determined to pursue his new career path - at least for the time being. 'I've never ruled anything out or in. I've gone down this road for a couple of years, I'll see if I enjoy it or if I'm any good at it and see where it takes me,' he said. 'I've been playing football all my life and I'm looking forward to doing different things and seeing where it takes me.'
The greatest moment: Carragher (left), Steven Gerrard and the 2005 European Cup
Di Canio cancels Sunderland's holiday plans and orders his squad in for training the day AFTER the Premier League season ends
By COLIN YOUNG PUBLISHED: 21:30 GMT, 15 May 2013 | UPDATED: 21:30 GMT, 15 May 2013
Sunderland manager Paolo Di Canio has cancelled his players' holiday plans as he looks to make sweeping changes at the club following their escape from Barclays Premier League relegation. Although owner Ellis Short rang his head coach at midnight on Tuesday in the wake of Wigan's defeat at Arsenal – `he was singing at me he was so happy, it was amazing' – Di Canio was in no mood to celebrate.The Sunderland boss has already started to make plans for next season and warned players heading to Tottenham on Sunday that they can expect four weeks, the minimum amount of time off for their summer holidays.
Demanding: Paolo Di Canio will limit his players to the minimum four weeks' holiday
He has already ordered his players back to the training ground on Monday morning even if they have booked flights.'If anybody has booked a holiday for Monday, they are going to lose some money,' he said. 'Why would they book a holiday on Monday? Why would they book a holiday before April 1st? They are not being serious, they have to ask me. 'If they did it before it is wrong and if somebody gave them a chance to organise a holiday in January or February it is wrong. I will see what happens on Sunday, then we will come back together, and I will tell them when their holidays start.'
Plans ruined? Connor Wickham may be among those to struggle under Di Canio's new strict regime
Disciplinarian: Di Canio has vowed to clamp down on his players and has already been fining them
Di Canio also revealed he had handed out a number of fines in the last week, including to players who had failed to attend the weekly signing session. He added: 'It is seven steps to climb, 20 items to sign for children or supporters and it is important for them, but people forget. It is in the contract that they must, it is crucial to the club. 'Now they are fined because you have to start from somewhere or we're never going to change. It is small things, but many small things become a big problem. We have to respect the rules or we are never going to change. 'Everything means the mentality, we can't change everything. It doesn't mean we won't keep many players, but we will change some. That can wait until after Sunday.'
Whelan: Martinez has had loads of offers from clubs bigger than Everton... but I want him to stay and get us back up
By MARTYN ZIEGLER PUBLISHED: 16:49 GMT, 15 May 2013 | UPDATED: 17:40 GMT, 15 May 2013
Wigan chairman Dave Whelan will try to persuade Roberto Martinez to stay and take the club back into the Barclays Premier League at the first attempt next season but admits the Spaniard has been made numerous offers from other clubs. Whelan will have a meeting with Martinez after the Latics' final match of the season at home to Aston Villa on Sunday to hammer out their plans for next season after the FA Cup winners were condemned to relegation by defeat at Arsenal. The Wigan chairman has promised to boost the size of the squad to cope with the demands of European football and hopes Martinez will remain at the club.
Highly rated: Despite their relegation, many believe Wigan manager Roberto Martinez to have done a good job
Everton are in the market for a new manager after David Moyes's move to Manchester United but Whelan said there were other clubs after Martinez. Whelan said: 'We'll have a meeting after the final match and he's so honest he will tell me then whether he is staying or going. 'He has had numerous offers. There are clubs bigger than Everton looking at Roberto every season because he's a quality manager. 'We have a partnership, we have complete trust in each other, that's how we operate. Of course, we would love him to stay but what he decides I will accept.'The first season [after relegation] is the one to get back up - the parachute payment is the biggest and we should have the same core of players.'
Successful partnership: And Wigan owner Dave Whelan wants Martinez to stay at the club
Whelan estimates that Wigan will have to play an extra 12 to 15 matches next season - 46 rather than 38 in the league, plus the demands of the Europa League. He added: 'We are going to have to have more players - take into account the Community Shield against Manchester United and we could end up playing 60 games. We will need a bigger squad.' Whelan also admitted that it would be impossible to choose between winning the FA Cup and staying in the Premier League.'The FA Cup is monumental and historic but to be in the Premier League is so important commercially and financially,' he said. 'What made the difference this season is that Lady Luck deserted us. We had the most horrendous luck with injuries - sometimes eight first-choice players out with injury. We accept that overall we were not quite good enough but we also feel hard-done-by.'
Vacancy: The departure of David Moyes to Manchester United has left Everton looking for a new manager
Whelan admitted that he felt the club were doomed to the drop following last week's 3-2 home defeat to Swansea - when they had twice been in front.Victory at Wembley inspired hope of another league escape, but it was not to be as Wigan became the first club to win the FA Cup and go down in the same season. 'The the writing was on the wall when we lost to Swansea at home,' he added. 'It has been a fantastic season and I do think Wigan Athletic have made an awful lot of friends worldwide - not just in the Premier League - because of the way we play and our attitude.'
Stability: Whelan appointed Martinez in 2009 and kept his faith in him, even when Wigan struggled
City move for Spain star Isco as incoming Pellegrini plans to bring Malaga's key man to Manchester
By CHRIS WHEELER and ALEX KAY PUBLISHED: 21:30 GMT, 15 May 2013 | UPDATED: 22:00 GMT, 15 May 2013
Manchester City have been given the green light by Malaga to appoint Manuel Pellegrini as their new manager and are now planning to secure the Spanish club’s star player, Isco, as well. Malaga have agreed to waive a £3million release clause and free Pellegrini, 59, from the final two years of his contract at the end of the season. City, meanwhile, have opened negotiations with representatives of Spain international Isco. Pellegrini is expected to earn £4.5m a year, but is unlikely to be unveiled until City return from their post-season trip to New York, where they will play Chelsea in two friendlies.
Highly rated: Spain midfielder Isco could become the key man in a new-look Manchester City team
Meanwhile, City chief executive Ferran Soriano has held talks with Isco’s father, Paco Alarcon, and lawyers over a four-year deal, and is hopeful of signing the player for less than the £27m buyout clause that was put into the deal he agreed with the Spanish club in January. The 21-year-old insists he is happy at Malaga but has accepted for some time that their financial problems mean he has to be sold. City’s pursuit of Isco was first revealed by Sportsmail. City still face competition from Real Madrid but they hope the chance to work under his current boss, Pellegrini, will be a key factor in Isco’s decision as Real’s managerial situation is still uncertain.
Planning ahead? Manuel Pellegrini is set to succeed Roberto Mancini as City's boss
Creative: City believe playmaker Isco could give them something they have been missing in midfield
Promising: The young midfielder has already played and impressed at the highest level
Madrid are also putting together a rival bid for City’s long-term target Edinson Cavani, in the hope of signing Napoli’s Uruguayan striker as a replacement for Karim Benzema and Gonzalo Higuain this summer. Real could yet make an attempt to lure City striker Sergio Aguero back to the Spanish capital as well. Despite sacking Roberto Mancini on Monday night and moving swiftly to replace him with Pellegrini, City’s objectives in the transfer market are unchanged as they look to win back the Premier League title from neighbours Manchester United. They want to bring in five quality signings for next season, including a striker, playmaker, defensive midfielder, winger and centre back, with Sevilla winger Jesus Navas another top target.
One that got away? Edinson Cavani may head to Real Madrid, despite City's interest
One in, one out? Jesus Navas may also head to Manchester, though Sergio Aguero could leave
Meanwhile, former City striker Mario Balotelli has admitted that he is ‘not really surprised’ by Mancini’s departure, amid speculation about a serious breakdown in the Italian’s relationship with his players. ‘When I was with him he was a great manager and we had one of the best teams I have played with,’ added Balotelli. ‘I don’t know why they didn’t win, but obviously there were some problems inside.’ Mancini’s fate at the club he transformed into champions of the Premier League was sealed after a series of incidents in which he criticised his players.
Fond memories: Mario Balotelli has described Mancini as a 'great manager', regardless of his sacking
Pay £10 and get Ronaldo: United fans try to reach £100m and bring back their former hero to Old Trafford
By ANDY JAMES PUBLISHED: 10:51 GMT, 15 May 2013 | UPDATED: 12:21 GMT, 15 May 2013
After a weekend of goodbyes to iconic figures Sir Alex Ferguson and Paul Scholes, Manchester United fans might be saying hello again to Cristiano Ronaldo - if they themselves can find the money.A small band of Australian-based United supporters have created a website where fans can help raise funds to bring back their old favourite, who has a £100million buyout clause, from Real Madrid.The 'BringRonaldoHome' movement has already received thousands of pledges to buy a United shirt with Ronaldo on it - however it needs 10 million to donate a tenner for this target to be reached.
Former favourite: Ronaldo starred during his six-year spell at Old Trafford
Mark of respect: The Portuguese star refused to celebrate after scoring against his old club earlier this season
But as United have a reported 659m people across the globe, it could be feasible. Launched three days ago, the viral campaign video has been flooding Twitter and Facebook feeds of football fans around the globe. A spokesperson for www.BringRonaldoBack.org said: 'We have been inspired by the loyalty and dedication of United fans.'To be a "true" fan requires the "living" experience of football. It is not about being a mere spectator, it is about being a participant. We wanted to give fans an opportunity to be involved.
Old Trafford hero: Ronaldo remains loved at Old Trafford
'The internet is now a significant resource in the world of football. Fans spend increasing amounts of their time on football web sites accessing up-to-the-minute information about events specific to their team and discussing issues on blogs.'What we have done is develop a construct, based on crowd funding principles, which will tap into this incredible global fan support that Manchester United has - to help deliver the goods - to give the fans an opportunity for their voice to deliver an action.'Proceeds from the money raised by the provisional shirt sales will be conditionally provided to United - to enable them to use the fan-sourced funds to seal Ronaldo's transfer from Real Madrid.Should United succeed then each pledger will be sent their Ronaldo shirt.But should the English champions fail in the novel campaign, the money will be returned.Fans can donate at www.bringronaldohome.org/
Trophy winner: Ronaldo was no stranger to winning silverware at Manchester United
New era: David Moyes (above left) will replace the retiring Sir Alex Ferguson at the Premier League champions
RVP misses out yet again as Carrick is crowned United's Player of the Year
By PAUL COLLINS PUBLISHED: 19:48 GMT, 15 May 2013 | UPDATED: 23:51 GMT, 15 May 2013
Michael Carrick has been named Manchester United's Players' Player of the Year as the Premier League champions continued to celebrate their title-winning season.The midfielder has excelled at Old Trafford during what proved to be Sir Alex Ferguson's final campaign. And he was given the nod on Wednesday ahead of Robin van Persie who also missed out on the Football Writers' and PFA Player of the Year awards to Gareth Bale.The Dutch striker did at least pick up the Fans' Player of the Year gong as well as Goal of the Season for his strike against Aston Villa.
The best: Carrick was awarded Player of the Season despite tough competition
Fans choice: Van Persie was voted by the fans as Player of the Season, having scored 25 league goals
Line-up: Robin van Persie is presented with the Sir Matt Busby Fans' Player of the Year award
Full list of awards
Players' Player of the Year: Michael Carrick Fans' Player of the Year: Robin Van Persie Goal of the Season: Robin Van Persie Young Player of the Year: Adnan Januzaj Academy Player of the Year: Ben Pearson
Meanwhile, Ferguson admitted he was desperate 'to go out a winner' after being beaten to the Barclays Premier League title by rivals Manchester City last year. The Manchester United manager, who retires after 26 years of unprecedented success at Old Trafford, explained how important it was to him to leave his post with the club back on top of the pile. Ferguson and his players celebrated yet again on Wednesday night at the club's annual Player of the Year awards.
Speaking on stage, Ferguson told MUTV: 'That was an issue when (wife) Cathy and I chatted about this at Christmas. At that point we had a five-point lead and I thought we had a great chance. 'I said "I really need to go out a winner. We need to win something". After the disappointment of last season we couldn't take a second one. I was hopeful we'd win it and we did. 'We had a terrific points lead. The problem is when you have a lead and you start to lose a point. When we lost to City in the Monday night game you start to think "Christ, you can't throw this away".'
That need to end on a high note extends to the final game of the Ferguson era at West Brom on Sunday too.
All smiles: Ferguson greets his striker Robin Van Persie as the two share a laugh before the awards
Speech: Ferguson talks to Jim Rosenthal as he looks ahead to his final match in charge
One last team talk? Sir Alex Ferguson speaks to Patrice Evra, Anderson and Antonio Valencia
The silverware may have been sewn up already, but Ferguson has no interest in signing off with defeat. 'We need to win the game on Sunday,' he added.
'We won the last home game (against Swansea) and I don't want to lose my last game, that's for sure.' Ferguson was instrumental in the decision to appoint Everton manager David Moyes as his successor and he explained why he felt his fellow Scot was the man for the job. United may have known plenty of success in recent seasons, but Ferguson feels the ability to deal with adversity could be crucial for Moyes. 'What I know of David is he's hard working, there's an integrity about him, he's got a work ethic about him and he's a serious football man. 'These are qualities he's going to need. If you look at what he's done at Everton for instance.
Honours: Adnan Januzaj was Young Player of the Year (above) while Ben Pearson took the Academy award
Thumbs up: Van Persie and team-mate Michael Carrick (right) have been two of United's best players
Give us a smile: Wayne Rooney and Paul Scholes (left) look glum in contrast to co-host Hayley McQueen (right)
Single file: Wayne Rooney (centre) arrives at the dinner but will he be at United next season?
Flying solo: Shinji Kagawa (left) and Rafael were regular members of the Premier League-winning side
Foreign faces: Alexander Buttner (left) and David De Gea arrived with their respective partners
'Eleven years without real financial backing, but he persevered and created some decent teams in the last few years. 'One thing you have to do here is sacrifice and persevere. It's not always a golden path of riches. 'There are hard days, there are difficult days, there are bad losses. 'Our supporters have suffered many things but they've also enjoyed many things.' United's chief executive David Gill is also departing at the end of the season, but he is content that the foundations being taken over by Moyes are built for success. 'It will be strange (when Ferguson leaves) but we've got the infrastructure there,' he told MUTV. 'We have very good staff off and on the field. It'll be strange but David Moyes coming in will know he's got a rock-solid club, a club that has just won the Premier League by a big points margin.'
Generation game: Veteran Ryan Giggs (left) and former United midfielder Nicky Butt make an appearance
Living legend: Giggs has outlasted his manager as he continues to perform at the highest level for United
Solid pairing: Defenders Nemanja Vidic (left) and Rio Ferdinand continue United's title celebrations
Meeting of minds: Rafael speaks to Patrice Evra, Anderson and Antonio Valencia at the awards ceremony
Star turns: Actress Shobna Gulati (left) and singer Simon Le Bon also turned up for a night of celebration
Ferguson's Q&A from the awards ceremony
Jim Rosenthal: You've just seen a video montage, how does that make you feel? Sir Alex Ferguson: I think I'll be able to enjoy it now looking back. I think it's a different perspective looking back as, having managed the club for that length of time, I was always looking forward not back but now I can reflect on my career a bit more.
JR: You've not finished yet - there's a game on Sunday... AF: Exactly. We've got to win the game on Sunday. West Brom will want to win their last home game but I don't want to lose my last game, that's for sure.
JR: Did you want to go out as a winner? AF: It was an issue. When Cathy and I chatted about it at Christmas, at that time, we had a five-point lead. I thought we had a great chance and I said we really need to win something. With the disappointment last year, I couldn't take a second one. I was hopeful we would win it and we did and then, in March, I let the club know.
JR: You've managed to win the league at a canter... AF:I don't think it was a canter but I think we had a terrific points lead. The problem when you've got the lead is when you start to lose a point or two, we lost to City on the Monday night for instance, and you start saying: 'Christ, we can't throw this away'. Fortunately, the next week, we played at Stoke and were terrific and then we went down to West Ham, their crew, and we had to battle in these games. I thought then we'd be okay.
JR: Was it hard to keep your decision to retire under wraps? AF: I mean sometimes I was sitting with my family and you forget you're actually going to retire and talk about next year. You're afraid you're going to blurt something else but I didn't tell my sons until the end of March, well Jason knew earlier as he works a lot with me. I only told my brother the night before it was announced and he wasn't too pleased! I got a bit of invective off him. It was difficult but the club knew in March. We sat down and discussed it and, of course, David [Gill] is retiring too and it gave me a problem as I didn't want to think we'd be leaving the club in the lurch you know.
JR: Were you happy that it was largely kept out of the media? AF: The rumour started out didn't it? On Tuesday night, the rumour has gone out and it's hard to keep things intact at Old Trafford. It's a bit of a sieve at times and news seems to creep out from all different angles and sources. I've tried over the years to eliminate these leakages of news getting out. I always thought, over the last 10 years especially, a part of my job is to keep us out of the news, which is nigh on impossible. You have to accept we are news but there's a difference between good news and bad news. I always tried to keep the bad news away from the club and that's difficult in the modern day.
JR: What qualities does David Moyes have as your replacement? AF: What I know of David is he's hard working and has an integrity about him. He's also got a work ethic about him and he's a serious football man. I think these are the qualities he's going to need. He's got a perseverance about him - look at what he's done at Everton. 11 years without any tremendous financial backing but he's persevered with it and created some decent teams in the last few years. They are the qualities he's going to need at our club. The one thing you have to do is definitely sacrifice and persevere - it's not always a golden path of riches. You have hard days and difficult days especially with the losses. We lost in the last seconds - for 10 seconds we were champions last year - but that's part of our history and we're used to that. Our supporters have suffered many things but also enjoyed many things. It's just part of our history.
JR: You said here last year that the fightback would start from now... AF: Absolutely. There was nothing to be ashamed of last year. You can all analyse it in many ways and you do that every time. We lost at Norwich this year and I was saying: 'Christ, this could cost us the league'. You think that way, it's instinct and the natural way of handling things. You know a defeat means something at this club but, in context, you win games and say we were a bit lucky, so it balances out. The name of the game is to be points ahead of the rest.
JR: Has it been an emotional week or so for you? AF: Yes, it definitely has been. On Sunday, I did what I had to do and I thought I did it well. I didn't show my emotion too much. When I announced to the staff, I was a bit blubby, you know. I think, funnily enough, the last few days have been hard and Monday night, after the parade, I slept for 10 hours. I think it was the first time in my life. I was absolutely gone - knackered! I didn't go in [to work]. I don't know what time it was but I kept feeling the presence of Cathy coming into the bedroom. I think she was checking I was still alive!
Joy, confined: Chelsea celebrate 'losers' trophy' but the sky's the limit under Abramovich Blues fans partied long into the night after watching their side seal Europa League glory although, with Jose Mourinho set to arrive, the club have bigger fish to fry next season
Tottenham launch €12m David Villa bid The Barcelona star wants to leave Camp Nou but any deal could hinge on Champions League qualification, with the Londoners ready to sell Emmanuel Adebayor
Terry open to England return, reveals Hodgson Following Rio Ferdinand retirement from international duty the Chelsea defender has contacted the Three Lions boss, he he says he will only turn to him if desperate
I 'owed' England retirement to Manchester United, says Rio Ferdinand The 34-year-old centre-back told announced his withdrawal from international selection on Wednesday and he now intends to "give my all" to the Premier League champions
'I loved him' - Fergie lauds retiring Carragher The 35-year-old is calling time on his playing career after 17 seasons with Liverpool and the Manchester United manager has taken time to heap praise on the defender's talents
'Kick up the backside' from Wenger inspired Arsenal win - Walcott The Gunners forward reveals his manager's fury after Shaun Maloney's free kick sent his side in level at half-time, the dressing-down prompting a three-goal response
Hodgson considering Rooney as England captain in Gerrard's absence The Three Lions boss is "pretty sure" the Manchester United striker will lead out the national team at some point in the future and sees him definitively as a striker
Fergie: I have every faith in Moyes The retiring Manchester United boss pays tribute to his successor, confident that the outgoing Everton manager has what it takes to prove himself at Old Trafford
Chelsea history-makers deserve enormous respect The Blues are often accused of achieving little prior to Roman Abramovich's arrival but few clubs understand better the reality that today's triumphs are tomorrow's history
Benitez deserves credit for Europa League success, says Cech The shot-stopper has hailed his manager's role in the Blues' European success and stressed that winning the competition was quite important to him
Villas-Boas confident of keeping Bale
The Tottenham boss concedes he is unsure whether the 23-year-old is on the verge of signing a new deal with the club but insists they are determined to keep him
West Ham interested in Ambrosini - agent
The 35-year-old's contract with AC Milan expires at the end of the season and Sam Allardyce's side are among those targeting a move for the Italian this summer
Balotelli 'really happy' to have left England
The striker believes he was treated unfairly during his time in the Premier League and insists his public persona was twisted by the media
Premier League confirm potential third-place play-off venue
Should Chelsea and Arsenal finish with the exact same points tally, goal difference and number of goals scored, a one-off game will be held at Villa Park on Sunday 26 May
Ferguson & Bale claim end-of-season awards
The Manchester United boss and Tottenham midfielder have been rewarded for record-breaking campaigns with the Manager of the Year and Player of the Year accolades
'I thought I'd have to move on' - Lampard
The veteran midfielder says he endured a difficult few months earlier this season but is delighted to have signed a new deal at the club he loves after proving his worth
Julio Cesar coy on future move as QPR exit is confirmed
The goalkeeper has been told by Harry Redknapp that he will be sold during the summer following the club's relegation to the Championship, but will feature against Liverpool
Courtois: I have not spoken to Mourinho about Chelsea
The 50-year-old is set to return to Chelsea in the summer but has not contacted the young Belgian, who is on loan at Atletico Madrid from Stamford Bridge
Lindegaard, Jones and Evans to start for Manchester United against West Brom
Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed that he will make widespread changes for his final game in charge of the Red Devils after 26 years
Wenger: Arsenal not that far from Chelsea & Manchester City
The Frenchman believes his side are closing the gap on the top places, and also hailed their mental strength to hold the advantage over Tottenham going into the final day
Benitez backs Moyes to do a 'good job' at Manchester United
The Blues' interim manager believes the outgoing Everton boss can succeed at Old Trafford, while also suggesting Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich will spend £100m this summer
Ancelotti: I have not spoken to Madrid
The PSG coach says only journalists are talking about a potential move to the Santiago Bernabeu as speculation over his future in France grows
David May hails Beckham's legacy
The defender has spoken of his admiration for his Old Trafford team-mate's career, and says the former England captain is a great person both on and off the field
Arsenal in ‘advanced talks’ to sign Yaya Sanogo from Auxerre, confirms Wenger
The 20-year-old has notched eight goals in seven Ligue 2 outings this term, including four in one game, while the Gunners boss again dismissed talk of a move for Wayne Rooney
Alex Ferguson's final Manchester United press conference in full
The former East Stirlingshire, St Mirren, Aberdeen and Scotland boss addressed the media for the last time, using the opportunity to tell stories from his early days in management
'Basically, he's everyone's idol' - Football world hails Beckham
The Paris Saint-Germain midfielder revealed on Thursday that he will hang up his boots at the end of the season
'He is one of the best strikers in the world' - Villas-Boas praises Tottenham target David Villa
The Spain striker could well be on his way to White Hart Lane if the Portuguese coach gets his way
Lampard desperate for Mourinho return
The midfielder recently became the club's all-time leading goalscorer, and says he hopes the manager can restore the doggedness of his past regime if he decides to come back
Ferdinand: Moyes walking into healthy situation at Manchester United
The defender says all players will have to prove themselves to the new manager, and believes that Sir Alex Ferguson's work ethic will be vital for the club's future
Rooney 'hell bent' on leaving Manchester United
The England international has told friends he is convinced there is 'no way back' for him at Old Trafford and that he is desperate to seal a move away from the club this summer
Alex Ferguson admits trying to influence referees during Manchester United career
The retiring manager says he did try to put pressure on officials in his time at Old Trafford, but insists he stopped at mind games - which he saved for opposition managers
Torres: Things are getting back to normal for me
The striker has only netted seven Premier League goals this term but has scored 22 overall in what he describes as "a good season" after winning the Europa League
Chamakh hints at Bordeaux return
The 29-year-old does not expect to stay at the Emirates Stadium and admits to a feeling of "nostalgia" for his former side, unable to see himself playing for another French club
Mata named Chelsea Players' Player of the Year
The 25-year-old was voted by members of the first-team squad and technical staff as the Blues' best player this season, with Nathan Ake winning Young Player of the Year
Donovan: I spoke to Lampard about leaving Chelsea for LA Galaxy
The USA international had chatted with the Blues legend about potentially joining the reigning MLS Cup champions, before the midfielder signed a new deal with at Stamford Bridge
Vieira to take charge of Manchester City's 'Elite Development Squad'
The former AC Milan, Arsenal, Juventus and Inter midfielder, who is working towards his Uefa A license, will take over from Attilio Lombardo
'A phenomenal talent' - Bruce among Manchester United heroes praising Beckham
The 38-year-old announced that he will be retiring from football at the end of the season and a number of respected former Red Devils have been quick to praise his contribution
Mourinho: We will all miss Ferguson
The Real Madrid coach pays tribute to the retiring Manchester United manager, remembering the Scot's graciousness when the Red Devils were beaten by his Porto side
'I've played for the best and with the best' - Beckham
The former England captain has announced that he will retire at the end of the 2012-13 campaign, and simply wants to remembered as a passionate, hard-working footballer
Hodgson: Beckham retirement signals end of a golden era
The England boss has hailed the former Three Lions captain's stellar career and hopes he will consider continuing to work in football in future
Carroll returns to England squad
Roy Hodgson has included the Liverpool loanee in his 22-man squad for fixtures against Brazil and Ireland, while Reading goalkeeper Alex McCarthy is the only debutant selected
Deschamps hands Nasri France recall
The enigmatic attacking midfielder was banned for three-games because of his misconduct during Euro 2012, which included a verbal bust-up with a journalist
Beckham announces retirement
The former England captain has decided to bring the curtain down on his illustrious career despite the efforts of Paris Saint-Germain to persuade him to play on for another year
Isco to join Manchester City - if they hire Pellegrini
The Spain starlet is ready to snub a move to Paris Saint-Germain and follow his Malaga coach to the Etihad Stadium as the beaten FA Cup finalists look to strike a €30 million deal
Lampard signs one-year contract extension at Chelsea
The day after lifting the Europa League trophy in Amsterdam, the 34-year-old has put pen to paper on fresh terms to keep him at Stamford Bridge for another year
The Sweeper: Manchester City line up Martinez as Pellegrini assistant
May 18, 2013 8:00:00 AM
The 39-year-old's future with Wigan remains unclear, while the coaching shake-up at the Etihad Stadium has been unrelated to Roberto Mancini's dismissal
MAN CITY TARGET MARTINEZ AS PELLEGRINI'S ASSISTANT
Manchester City are considering an offer for Wigan Athletic manager Roberto Martinez to become Manuel Pellegrini's assistant.
The Malaga boss is expected to be unveiled as Roberto Mancini's successor within the next two weeks but The Sweeper understands that City are lining up a surprise bid for Martinez after the Spaniard masterminded Wigan's shock FA Cup victory at Wembley last Saturday.
The 39-year-old's future at the DW Stadium remains unclear following Wigan's relegation from the Premier League, while Martinez, who is Everton's first-choice candidate to replace David Moyes, is set to meet with the club's chairman Dave Whelan for talks next week.
It is not known who Pellegrini wants by his side at the Etihad Stadium next season but City have previously been ambitious in their recruitment for the assistant manager position after attempting to make Brendan Rodgers the second in command to Mancini just 18 months ago.
- Paul Clennam
MAN CITY COACHING SHAKE-UP UNRELATED TO MANCINI EXIT
The long knives were sharpened at Manchester City earlier this week with an extensive cull of the coaching staff headlined by the exit of Roberto Mancini.
As revealed by Goal on Tuesday, Mancini was swiftly followed through the exit door by first-team coach David Platt and his extended Italian entourage that included Under-21s manager Attilio Lombardo, senior coach Fausto Salsano, fitness coach Ivan Carminati, goalkeeping coach Massimo Battara and defensive coach Angelo Gregucci.
The City sacking programme, which is believed to have been led by sporting director Txiki Begiristain, was broadened to also include staff members further down the coaching chain.
But The Sweeper understands that the departures of four long-term City servants who work with the academy players were unrelated to Mancini's exit.
Youth chief Jim Cassell, Academy coach Paul Power, Under-18s coach Adam Sadler and Pete Lowe, the head of education and coaching, were all axed "for different reasons", according to a City source.
It is expected that Mancini's former No.2 Brian Kidd, who will be in caretaker charge for the club's final match of the season on Sunday, will take on a new role at the Etihad Campus, which is currently under construction.
Kidd is likely to work closely with Patrick Vieira, who, as part of the club’s coaching restructure, was appointed to replace Lombardo as head of the Elite Development Squad on Thursday.
- Wayne Veysey
‘INJURED’ ARTETA TO TRAVEL WITH ARSENAL SQUAD
Mikel Arteta will travel with the Arsenal party that flies to Newcastle ahead of Sunday's pivotal Premier League clash even if he is ruled out through injury.
Arsene Wenger says the midfielder has "minimal" chance of being available for the match after picking up a calf strain in Tuesday's 4-1 win over Wigan.
The Sweeper understands that Arteta's injury is the type that would normally take two weeks to recover from, but the club gave him injections on Friday in a last-ditch bid to patch him up for the final game of the season.
Even if he is declared not fit, the Arsenal lynchpin and vice-captain, who is regarded as one of the more vocal members of the dressing room, plans to travel with the squad to provide moral support for his team-mates.
- Wayne Veysey
SIR ALEX TO GET COMMEMORATIVE WATCH
Manchester United's official watch maker Hublot are planning a special gift to mark Sir Alex Ferguson's retirement.
They plan to design a one-off commemorative piece to record his time at Old Trafford.
Jokers inside Carrington have already suggested it will tick a little slower to allow for injury time.
Stoke to investigate pig's head in players' dressing room
By Tayler Willson
May 17, 2013 9:48:00 PM
The item was discovered in Kenwyne Jones' locker at the club's training ground, although manager Tony Pulis admits he was unaware of the incident
Stoke City will launch an internal investigation after it was today reported that a pig's head was found in Kenwyne Jones' locker.
Stoke midfielder Brek Shea posted an image of the pig's head on Twitter with the caption: "Locker room banter gone wild!!!".
"The club takes seriously reports of an incident at our training ground this afternoon," read a statement on the club's official website.
"A full internal investigation will be carried out and those responsible for any unacceptable behaviour will be dealt with in accordance with the club’s disciplinary procedures."
Stoke manager Tony Pulis admits he was unaware of the incident but claims he will speak to his squad regarding the incident prior to the club's final game of the season against Southampton on Sunday.
"We have a smashing dressing room, and there are four or five lads who are always up to something. There is always banter going on," Pulis told BBC Radio Five Live.
"I honestly don't know what's gone on this morning, I've missed all of what's happened. I try to stay away from the home dressing room as much as I possibly can, I let the lads get on with it.
"We will look at it tomorrow, I will have a chat with the lads and find out exactly what has happened.
"From that point onwards we'll let everybody know exactly what the situation was."
Stoke's Jones denies smashing team-mate's car after finding pig's head in locker
By NEIL MOXLEY PUBLISHED: 13:48 GMT, 17 May 2013 | UPDATED: 19:49 GMT, 17 May 2013
Two Stoke City players will be subjected to an internal investigation by the club after an end-of-season prank involving a pig’s head backfired horribly. Furious Potters’ boss Tony Pulis will demand answers from midfielder Glenn Whelan and striker Kenwyne Jones after a week of dressing-room jokes descended into chaos before astonished onlookers at the club’s Clayton Wood training ground.Trouble flared when a player, believed to be Whelan, left a pig’s head among Jones’s clothes in his locker after the forward had changed for training.
Hamming it up: Brek Shea posted this image of him holding a pig's head in the Stoke changing room
The Trinidad and Tobago international, who according to his girlfriend had asked to be exempt from the japes, failed to appreciate the attempted humour when he returned. The £8m striker was furious and went outside to his team-mate’s car, smashing the windscreen in a revenge attack. The incident was seen by Stoke supporters waiting for autographs outside the complex and the news spread via twitter within minutes.
When put to him by a Twitter follower that he had been responsible for the damage, Jones replied: "For your info I didn't do that get ur info correct." It was the last in a string of jokes that Pulis’s squad had played on each other in the week building up to their final match of the season. Michael Owen’s Mercedes C63 was covered with egg and flour - but it appears that Whelan’s decision to leave the item in Jones’s locker was a step too far.
Anger: Kenwyne Jones' partner spoke out against the prank on her twitter, hinting at religious outrage
Stoke midfielder Brek Shea posted a picture of himself holding the head on his own Instagram page.The girlfriend of fringe squad player Jamie Ness, Heather Weir, was one of the first to comment on the image, writing: ‘Totally love my boyfriend coming home to tell me a pigs head was getting passed round the changing rooms lol!’The caption ‘Locker room banter gone wild!’ suggested the prank was well received by the players involved, but Jones’s girlfriend, Kissa Abdullah, claimed the opposite.She hit back on her own account in an angry rant, writing: “Big men acting like kids a pigs head is not a prank its just disgusting!!!!! Wtf??? I don’t get how was that sup 2 be funny!!!! Really???“They put a huge bloody pigs head in his clothes at training. He warned them 2 keep out of the banter or else! u kno the rest.’
Not happy: Kenwyne Jones is believed to be the 'victim' of the prank, and is understood to be angry
She added: ‘Listen 4 all those who don’t get it lay the f! back! Where I come from that’s not anywhere close 2 funny! Esp not knowing religious beliefs,’ before concluding, ‘It just takes a minute to be sensitive to someone’s beliefs no one says u can’t have a sense of humour but let it be a joke! This wasn’t!’Jones does hold religious convictions describing himself as ‘god-fearing’ on his own Twitter account.Stoke released a statement confirming their decision to hold an enquiry, saying: 'The club takes seriously reports of an incident at our training ground this afternoon.'A full investigation will be carried out and those responsible for any unacceptable behaviour will be dealt with in accordance with the club’s disciplinary procedures.'Pulis was holding his pre-match briefing before Sunday’s trip to Southampton as events unfolded but was informed afterwards and is due to see both players today before the team coach departs for the south coast.
Happy Sunday: Michael Owen woke up to find his car caked in eggs and flour before his final game
