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Lewandowski: Klopp was a 'bad teacher' to me at Dortmund

The FC Goa coach was not pleased with the referee’s decision to send Redeem Tlang off...

FC Goa’s Juan Ferrando was disappointed with the last-minute goal his team conceded in their defeat to Mumbai City on Wednesday.

Ferrando did not want to speak about the performance of his team’s defence and instead praised his players for their effort on the pitch.

“It is difficult to know what happened. The real situation is that team worked a lot. We lost the game in the end. Our focus is now on the next game.”

Redeem Tlang made his debut for FC Goa but it quickly turned into a nightmare for him as well as for his team, In the 40th minute, he was given the marching orders by the referee for to a poor high-footed challenge on Hernan Santana.

Ferrando did not want to speak about the referee’s decision as he quipped, “I prefer not to speak about referees because everyone knows what is the level (of referees) here is.”

The Spanish coach suggested that he had no other option but to shift to his backup plan as soon as the team was reduced to 10 men but he mentioned that it was always going to be difficult to counter a team of Mumbai's calibre.

"It is difficult to play against a good team (with 10 men). Before the red card, it was a beautiful game with two teams trying to play football. After the red, it was necessary to go to plan ‘B’. The plan ‘B’ was good for a bit. It is difficult to talk about stats today. With 10 players it is difficult to play."

One point from the first two matches is not what Ferrando expected and he has said that his team will continue to work hard to get wins in the matches to come.

"It is not good. Our mentality is to win three points all the time. The most important thing is to continue working," said the FC Goa manager.

Original author: Ritabrata Banerjee
  124 Hits

Partey can’t expect to play every week at Arsenal – Mendieta

The Albiceleste superstar was recovering at his home in Tigre after undergoing brain surgery at the start of November

Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Nick Mwendwa has led the country to mourn the sudden passing of Argentina legend Diego Maradona on Wednesday.

The Gimnasia coach, who had been hospitalised at the start of November, days after celebrating the landmark birthday, after complaining of a low spirit and fatigue, passed away at the age of 60 after suffering a heart attack.

Maradona had undergone surgery to remove a blood clot on the brain, which doctors later revealed was operated on successfully, and was subsequently released from the hospital as an outpatient to continue his convalescence, which he carried out in his dwelling in a private neighbourhood near Tigre, in northern Buenos Aires.

But on Wednesday morning he suffered cardiac arrest, and paramedics at the scene failed to revive him.

FKF boss Mwendwa has now led Kenyans to mourn the legend, alongside former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, and top teams across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.

Original author: Dennis Mabuka
  211 Hits

'Best moment was when I scored vs Bandari from a goal kick' - Azam FC's Mapigano

The veteran marksman netted his third goal of the season as Phunya Sele Sele recorded a morale-boosting victory ahead of their Caf match

Bloemfontein Celtic secured a 1-0 win over Black Leopards in a Premier Soccer League (PSL) match which was played at Dr Molemela Stadium on Wednesday night.

Ndumiso Mabena was the hero for Phunya Sele Sele as his second-half goal inspired the Free State giants to a victory over Lidoda Duvha in the City of Roses. 

Phunya Sele Sele were desperate to record their maiden victory of the season in the league after succumbing to a 4-2 defeat to Cape Town City on Sunday. 

Coach John Maduka rewarded Menzi Masuku with a starting berth after the former Orlando Pirates attacking midfielder came off the bench to score against City.

Meanwhile, Lidoda Duvha were brimming with confidence after they secured their maiden win of the campaign when they edged out Maritzburg United 1-0 on Saturday.

Coach Dylan Kerr, who had marked his return to Leopards with a win over Maritzburg, unsurprisingly named an unchanged team as he opted for consistency in his team selection.

However, Celtic dominated the match from the start with Mabena and Tebogo Potsane combining well for the home side in the final third.

Mabena played a long ball to Potsane, who controlled the ball well down the left-hand side, before placing his effort just over the crossbar from the edge of the box.

Potsane was then sent through on goal by Mabena, but the diminutive winger was brilliantly denied by on-rushing Leopards goalkeeper King Ndlovu.

The Lidoda Duvha defence was finding it difficult to contain Potsane, who was proving quite a handful on the left-hand side with Ethan Sampson struggling to contain him.

Potsane set-up Victor Letsoalo with a cut-back pass, but the striker fired wide of the target as the home side continued to waste their goalscoring opportunities.

The last chance of the first-half fell for none other than Potsane, who found himself in a one-on-one situation with Ndlovu after running onto Mabena's long ball.

The 27-year-old was let down by some poor finishing as he ballooned his effort over the crossbar from close range and the score was 0-0 at the interval.

Celtic continued their dominance after the restart and they finally broke the deadlock after Potsane and his partner-in-crime Mabena combined. 

Potsane set-up Mabena, who made no mistake as the former Pirates marksman beat Ndlovu with a good finish to make it 1-0 to Celtic nine minutes after the restart.

Kerr then introduced central midfielders Wiseman Maluleke and Andriamirado 'Dax' Andrianarimanana as the visitors looked to gain control of the match and restore parity.

Maduka reacted by introducing attack-minded midfielder Tumelo Mangweni and both teams launched attacks in the closing stages of the encounter.

Ultimately, Celtic emerged 1-0 winners after containing Leopards, who were unable to seriously test Jackson Mabokgwane in the hosts' goalposts on the night.

The result sees Celtic move up to the 14th spot on the league standings, while Leopards dropped into the relegation play-off spot which is 15th place.

Celtic will now take on DR Congolese side AS Maniema Union in the Caf Confederation Cup on Sunday, while Leopards' next match is against Kaizer Chiefs on December 8.

Original author: Austin Ditlhobolo
  214 Hits

MLS team San Jose Earthquakes part ways with general manager Jesse Fioranelli

The late Argentina star lifted two Scudetti during his time in Naples, the first and only league titles the club has ever achieved

Naples mayor Luigi De Magistris has urged Napoli to rename their San Paolo home after late club idol Diego Maradona. 

Maradona threw the world of football into mourning on Wednesday when he passed away after suffering a heart attack

The Argentina legend, 60, had suffered from ill-health since the start of November, and had been forced to undergo a procedure to remove a blood clot from his brain earlier in the month. 

News of his passing led to an outpouring of tributes from across the planet, but it was most keenly felt in his native Argentina and in Naples, where he starred from 1984-91 as a player. 

And as well as Napoli, De Magistris called on his city to bestow an exceptional honour on one of its favourite adopted sons. 

"We will name the Stadio San Paolo in honour of Diego Armando Maradona!" the official stated on his official Twitter account on Wednesday. 

"Diego Armando Maradona, the greatest footballer of all time, Diego has died. 

"He made our people dream, he redeemed Naples with his genius. 

"In 2017 Diego became our citizen of honour, Neapolitan and Argentine, you gave us joy and happiness. Naples loves you!"

Maradona first arrived in southern Italy in the summer of 1984 following the end of his turbulent spell at Barcelona

He made an immediate impact in his first season, netting 14 Serie A goals to finish behind Michel Platini and Alessandro Altobelli as the league's top scorers as Napoli finished in eighth. 

Even better was to come, though, as in 1986-87 the newly crowned world champion led Napoli to their first-ever Scudetto triumph, a feat the club repeated in 1989-90. 

In total the Argentine spent six full seasons at the club, leaving part-way through his seventh after testing positive for cocaine and receiving a worldwide ban on footballing activities. 

He played a total of 259 games for Napoli, scoring 115 goals, and he continues to be acclaimed as an idol at the side with his face appearing in murals across Naples almost 30 years after departing.

Original author: Goal
  320 Hits

United States 3-0 Morocco: Brenden Aaronson stars in USMNT friendly win

36' PENALTY? Ilicic drives into the box and goes down under pressure from Tsimikas. The Atalanta forward appeals for a penalty, but the referee is well placed to wave away the protests. 

35' In the other game in Group D, Ajax are currently drawing 0-0 with FC Midtjylland. 

33' Milner latches onto a loose pass and knocks it back to Rhys Williams before being caught from behind by Pessina. The Spanish referee gives Liverpool a free-kick. 

31' Thus far in the match, Atalanta have enjoyed 52 per cent of the possession. Moreover, Salah is the only Liverpool player to have had a touch inside the away team’s box. 

29' Neco Williams takes a chance in cutting back onto his right foot on the edge of his own box. Freuler goes in to try and regain possession for the away side but concedes a foul. 

27' Gosens swings a low cross into a dangerous area towards Ilicic, and Matip is quick to react to knock it away to safety. 

25' Milner handles the ball midway inside his own half, and the referee awards the away side a free-kick. 

23' Klopp’s side are struggling to find their rhythm at present. Neco Williams loses the ball down the right-hand side of the field, and Atalanta are once again able to go on the offensive. 

22' Freuler’s in-swinging cross the left is nodded to the edge of the box by Tsimikas. The loose ball is picked up by Ilicic, who lashes a fierce strike well over the top of Alisson’s goal 

21' Tsimikas is clipped by De Roon, and the hosts win a free-kick down the left flank. 

20' Gasperini’s side are continuing to press in their efforts to break the deadlock. Freuler attempts to drive at the heart of the Liverpool defence, but Milner is alert to make the interception. 

18' In Jones, Rhys Williams and Neco Williams, Liverpool are the first side to name three British teenagers in their starting team for a Champions League match since Arsenal named four against Olympiakos in December 2009. 

16' Jones is caught by De Roon on the halfway line as he looked to spin away from the Dutchman. Liverpool are awarded a free-kick. 

14' After that earlier knock, Gosens has returned to the pitch. 

12' There is going to be a brief stoppage in play as Gosens is down and in need of treatment following a collision with his goalkeeper following a set-piece situation. 

11' WIDE! Neco Williams this time loses the ball deep inside the hosts’ half. Gomez reclaims possession for Atalanta and, from the edge of the Liverpool box, steers his shot beyond the far post.  

9' SAVE! Romeo floats an inch-perfect pass down the left flank for Gosens. The winger latches onto ball and almost catches Alisson out at his near post, but the Brazilian gets a strong right-hand to the shot to turn it behind for a corner.  

8' Should Klopp’s side win against Atalanta, then the hosts will secure their place in the knockout stages of the Champions League.  

6' Tsimikas lofts an inviting cross into the away side’s box, but Origi is adjudged to have fouled Romero when looking to latch onto the delivery. 

4' The visitors have made a promising start in the opening minutes as they continue to confidently knock the ball around in their efforts to find their rhythm. Salah sloppily gives possession to Gomez in a dangerous area, and the Atalanta forward curls a left-footed shot wide of Alisson’s far post from the edge of the box. 

2' Origi does well to control Alisson’s long, searching pass before being fouled in the centre of the park by Freuler.  

1' Kick off! The referee, Carlos del Cerro Grande, blows his whistle and Atalanta get the game underway. 

The teams are out, and kick-off will soon be upon us here at Anfield. 

Liverpool won 5-0 in the reverse fixture against Atalanta, while they last won multiple games against Italian sides in a European campaign in 2007-08 – two wins against Inter Milan in the Last 16 of the UEFA Champions League.

The home side come into this match without suffering a defeat in any of their last eight matches in all competitions. Moreover, Jurgen Klopp’s team have scored eight goals in the Champions League thus far and are also yet to concede in Europe. Atalanta, meanwhile, head into the clash having won just once in their previous six games. In that time, the La Dea have kept just one clean sheet, which came in their most recent Serie A outing against Spezia. 

There are five changes from the Liverpool team that beat Leicester City last time out in the Premier League. Neco Williams, Rhys Williams, Tsimikas, Salah and Origi come into the side in place of Fabinho, Robertson, Naby Keita, Jota, and Firmino. The visitors, on the other hand, make three alterations for this clash. Djimsiti, Hateboer and Freuler replace Palomino, Fabio Depaoli and Zapata.  

ATALANTA SUBS: Francesco Rossi, Marco Sportiello, Cristiano Piccini, Giorgio Scalvini, Matteo Ruggeri, Johan Mojica, Jose Luis Palomino, Simone Panada, Aleksey Miranchuk, Luis Muriel, Duvan Zapata, Sam Lammers.  

LIVERPOOL SUBS: Adrian, Coaimhin Kelleher, Billy Koumetio, Andrew Robertson, Fabinho, Leighton Clarkson, Jake Cain, Takumi Minamino, Diogo Jota, Roberto Firmino. 

ATALANTA (3-5-2): Pierluigi Gollini; Rafael Toloi, Cristian Romero, Berat Djimsiti; Hans Hateboer, Marten de Roon, Remo Freuler, Matteo Pessina, Robin Gosens; Alejandro Gomez, Josip Ilicic. 

LIVERPOOL (4-3-3): Alisson; Neco Williams, Rhys Williams, Joel Matip, Konstantinos Tsimikas; James Milner, Georginio Wijnaldum, Curtis Jones; Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane, Divock Origi. 

Liverpool come into this game off the back of three consecutive wins in the Champions League, with their last European victory being a 5-0 win against Atalanta at Gewiss Stadium. Because of that result, Gian Peiro Gasperini will be hoping for a response from his team on Merseyside.  

Hello and welcome to live match coverage of the Champions League fixture in Group D between Liverpool and Atalanta at Anfield.

Original author: Goal
  232 Hits

Lionel Messi responds to rumours of rift with Kylian Mbappe

35' Inter's task was already a tough one this evening, but Vidal has made matters extremely difficult.

33' OFF! Vidal is sent off by referee Taylor as he continues his rant after not getting a decision. Taylor decides enough is enough and sends the Chilean on his way.

31' Kroos lines up a drive from distance, but he sends his effort well wide of the target.

29' CHANCE! Nacho connects with a header from Odegaard's cross from the right flank, but he can only direct his header straight at Handanovic.

28' SAVE! Hazard creates space for a strike from close range, but he is denied by a good save from Handanovic.

27' Vazquez has a charge at the Inter defence down the right inside channel and he wins a corner off the legs of Young. Mariano was lurking in the box.

26' OVER! Lukaku lines up a powerful strike and he curls his effort over the wall, but it continues on an upward trajectory to travel well over the bar.

24' The home side keep the pressure on and win another set-piece in a dangerous position as Vidal is barged over by Vazquez.

23' Varane stretches and brings down Martinez in the Madrid half. Inter have a free-kick in a useful position.

21' OVER! Barella and Hakimi combine on the edge of the Madrid box to tee up Vidal. However, the Chilean launches his right-footed strike well over the bar.

17' CHANCE! Mendy closes down a loose offload from Skriniar on the edge of their own box. He surges into the left inside channel and has a clear opening at goal. However, the Frenchman goes for the cutback and he fails to find Hazard in the middle. Mendy should have gone for the strike there.

16' Inter have had a sluggish start to the game. Conte will not be impressed with his side's performance.

14' Mariano rises highest in the box to guide a header towards goal following a cross from Carvajal, but he loops his effort straight at Handanovic.

13' OFF THE POST! Vazquez moves into the final third and goes for a powerful drive from 25 yards. His effort takes a slight deflection but travels towards goal. Handanovic is rooted to the spot and can only watch as the ball strikes the post and bounces clear.

11' Barella has space and time to line up a cross into the box, but his delivery is deflected straight into the hands of Courtois.

10' Hazard's strike from the penalty spot was his first Champions League goal for Madrid and first in the competition since 2017.

9' It's a poor start for Inter, but they did fight back from two goals down in the reverse fixture and in their last outing against Torino.

5' PENALTY TO REAL MADRID! Nacho finds himself in an advanced position. Odegaard slides a pass through to the defender and he gets brought down by a clumsy challenge from Barella. Referee Anthony Taylor does not hesitate in pointing to the spot.

3' Inter see their corner cleared as far as Hakimi on the right flank, but he lofts his cross straight out of play for a goal-kick.

2' Martinez charges down the left flank and wins an early corner for his team off the legs of Varane.

1' We're underway at San Siro.

There will be a minute of silence ahead of kick-off in remembrance of Diego Maradona.

Inter Milan have lost three of their last four games against Real Madrid in European competition (W1), including their most recent meeting at the start of the month.

Madrid are without Sergio Ramos and Karim Benzema along with Alvaro Odriozola and Federico Valverde due to injury tonight. Eder Militao and Luka Jovic are not available due to positive tests for Covid-19. As a result, Zidane names an unchanged team from the side that drew against Villarreal last time out. Mariano continues to lead the attack, supported by Odegaard, Hazard and Vazquez. Marcelo, Casemiro and Asensio settle for places on the bench.

Conte has made three changes to his side that beat Torino in Serie A at the weekend. De Vrij and Skriniar are restored to the backline in place of Ranocchia and D'Ambrosio, who drop to the bench. Sanchez also slides out of the line-up for Martinez in the final third.

REAL MADRID SUBS: Marco Asensio, Marcelo, Andriy Lunin, Casemiro, Vinicius Junior, Isco, Rodrygo Silva, Diego Altube, Victor Chust, Hugo Duro.

REAL MADRID (4-2-3-1): Thibaut Courtois; Daniel Carvajal, Raphael Varane, Nacho Fernandez, Ferland Mendy; Luka Modrid, Toni Kroos; Lucas Vazquez, Martin Odegaard, Eden Hazard; Mariano Diaz.

INTER SUBS: Alexis Sanchez, Stefano Sensi, Andrea Ranocchia, Ivan Perisic, Christian Eriksen, Danilo D'Ambrosio, Filip Stankovic, Matteo Darmian, Radja Nainggolan, Ionut Radu.

INTER (3-5-2): Samir Handanovic; Stefan de Vrij, Milan Skriniar, Andrea Bastoni; Achraf Hakimi, Nicolo Barella, Roberto Gagliardini, Arturo Vidal, Ashley Young; Romelu Lukaku, Lautaro Martinez.

Los Blancos have been inconsistent this term in all competitions. They were good enough last time out to overcome Inter at home in the Champions League to notch their first win of the tournament. However, since then they've been underwhelming in LaLiga, losing 4-1 to Valencia and drawing 1-1 in their last outing against Villarreal. Zinedine Zidane's men need their best against the Nerazzurri on the road.

Inter are in dire need of a victory to get their Champions League campaign on track. The Nerazzurri failed to record a win in their opening three matches, including a 3-2 defeat at the hands of Madrid last time out. Antonio Conte's men are sitting bottom of Group B and are in danger of falling off the pace. Inter ended a four-game run without a win with a triumph over Torino last time out, and need a similar performance tonight.

Good evening and welcome to the live commentary of the Champions League clash between Inter and Real Madrid at San Siro.

Original author: Goal
  27 Hits

LIVE: Bayern Munich vs Salzburg

39' It’s really not been a fantastic performance from Bayern in this first half. Their play has been slow and nowhere near their usual high standard. The visitors have played the better football overall and definitely should be ahead.

37' Junuzovic has been fantastic for the visitors so far tonight. The Austrian midfielder is keen to put in a big tackle when needed but also has the capability to link up the play from his midfield position. His inclusion tonight is proving to be a huge boost for Salzburg.

35' HOW HAS HE MISSED?! Szoboszlai will not want to see that one again. Berisha flicks a ball over the Bayern back line and the young Hungarian midfielder is in on goal. He takes a look at Neuer, sets himself but from 15 yards out he smashes his effort miles over the bar.

33' Salzburg are pressing the ball at every opportunity so far tonight. The Austrian outfit are putting pressure on the Bayern back line when they have the ball and Koita and Berisha in particular are looking to force a mistake.

31' Goretzka shoots from distance but his effort is blocked by Wober. Another Bayern corner to follow. 

29' CHANCE! Gnabry whips in a corner for the home side and Lewandowski leaps highest. The in-form striker doesn’t get enough on his header from close range though and it drifts wide.

27' Szoboszlai does take the free kick but his cross is cleared by the head of Gnabry. Ulmer shoots from 30 yards out first time but his left-footed effort is weak and rolls out for a Bayern goalkick. 

26' Salzburg grab a free kick on the right wing in a dangerous position. It looks like Szoboszlai will deliver from the set piece. 

22' Salzburg have won two of their last three away European fixtures against German opposition (L1), with their last victory coming against Leipzig in the UEFA Europa League in September 2018.

20' Junuzovic leads a break for Salzburg who gain possession from a poor Gnabry pass but the central midfielder can’t release Koita. You could certainly argue that Salzburg have been the better team in this one so far tonight!

17' HUGE CHANCE! Salzburg should be ahead in Munich. A poor ball from Alaba sets Koita free who slides a ball through to Berisha. The German youngster is one-on-one with Neuer but he can’t lift his effort over the Bayern keeper from close range. Mwepu should finish the rebound but his effort is weak and straight at Neuer.

15' After a fantastic opening ten minutes in this Champions League clash, Salzburg have just begun to surrender possession a little too easily. Koita tries to break down the right but his pass inside towards Berisha is dealt with by Boateng.

13' Bayern are beginning to turn the screw now. The German side have dominated the possession over the past five minutes and Lewandowski is the latest to go for goal. The Polish striker opens up his body 25 yards from goal, but his bending effort goes just over.

11' CLOSE! Gnabry very nearly opens the scoring. Bayern play some lovely football down the left wing and a cross is delivered. Ramalho does well to clear originally but the ball falls perfectly for the Bayern winger on the edge of the box. His right-footed volley just misses the far top corner.

9' Bayern Munich are unbeaten in their last eight clashes with Austrian sides in European competition (W6 D2), after losing their first such encounter against SK Rapid Wien in the Cup Winners’ Cup in 1967 (0-1).

7' As expected, Richards will play at left-back tonight for Bayern. The young American has only played a handful of times so far for the German champions – usually at centre-back – so tonight’s match will prove a huge learning curve for him regardless of the result.

5' More great play from Salzburg sees them attack down the left as Szoboszlai floats a cross into the back post. Mwepu leaps but Coman does well to recover and clear for a corner.

3' Salzburg have the first effort on target of the night. The Austrian side work it well from a throw in deep in the Bayern half and Camara shoots from just outside the box. His effort from 30 yards is on target but Neuer handles it with ease.

1' After a moment of silence to remember one of football’s greatest stars - Diego Armando Maradona - referee Orel Grinfeld blows his whistle and we’re underway here at the Allianz Arena!

The players are emerging from the tunnel and kick-off is just moments away.

The first-ever meeting between these two sides on MD3 ended in a 6-2 away win for Bayern Munich, the first time Salzburg have shipped six goals in any European competition.

Salzburg too have their injury problems coming into this Champions League fixture. Star forward Patson Daka is out with a thigh injury but the experienced Junuzovic does make the starting XI after a late fitness test. Boss Jesse Marsch opts for a youthful looking midfield to surround Junuzovic as Mwepu, Kamara and man-of-the-moment Szoboszlai all start. German youngster Berisha starts upfront alongside Koita.  

Hansi Flick has to deal with a plethora of recent injury concerns as Joshua Kimmich, Alphonso Davies, and Corentin Tolisso are all ruled out of tonight’s clash. Instead the Bayern manager opts for a blend of youth and experience as young American defender Richards gets the nod at left-back and Roca starts in central midfield. It’s business as usual in attack however as Muller, Gnabry, Coman and Lewandowski all start whilst Sane could be introduced from the bench as the match progresses.

SALZBURG SUBS: Carlos Coronel, Alexander Walke, Majeed Ashimeru, Albert Vallci, Jerome Onguene, Luka Sucic, Oumar Solet, Patrick Farkas, Karim Adeyemi.

SALZBURG (4-2-2-2): Cican Stankovic; Rasmus Kristensen, Andre Ramalho, Maximilian Wober, Andreas Ulmer; Mohamed Camara, Zlatko Junuzovic; Enock Mwepu, Dominik Szoboszlai; Sekou Koita, Mergim Berisha.

BAYERN MUNCH SUBS: Alexander Nubel, Javi Martinez, Leroy Sane, Douglas Costa, Eric Choupo-Moting, Joshua Zirkzee, Lucas Hernandez, Jamal Musiala, Bright Arrey-Mbi.

BAYERN MUNICH (4-2-3-1): Manuel Neuer; Benjamin Pavard, Jerome Boateng, David Alaba, Chris Richards; Marco Roca, Leon Goretzka; Serge Gnabry, Thomas Muller, Kingsley Coman; Robert Lewandowski.

The return of the Champions League after the latest international break once again pits the champions of Germany against the champions of neighbouring Austria as Salzburg visit the Allianz Arena in Munich. A win tonight for the hosts would see them claim their place in the next round of the competition whilst the visitors are in desperate need of all three points as they try to hunt down Atletico Madrid who currently occupy second spot in Group A.

Hello and welcome to our live text commentary of this Champions League fixture between Bayern Munich and Salzburg!

Original author: Goal
  303 Hits

Olympiacos 0-1 Manchester City: Foden strike seals Champions League progress

A dominant display from Manchester City yielded only one goal, but that was enough to see off Olympiacos and qualify from Group C.

Manchester City secured a last-16 spot in the Champions League but failed to turn their complete dominance into more than a 1-0 win over Olympiacos.

Eager to put Saturday's 2-0 Premier League loss to Tottenham behind them, Pep Guardiola's side controlled proceedings in Wednesday's Group C clash in Athens.

But they had only one goal to show for it as Phil Foden, who wowed for England during the international break, swept the visitors into a first-half lead that never came under threat from the toothless hosts.

Guardiola, who signed a new contract last week, saw his side frustrated by a combination of profligate finishing and fine goalkeeping from Jose Sa.

City, who scored nine goals across their opening three group games, were quickly on the front foot and Foden stung the palms of Sa with a low drive, with the goalkeeper also gathering a Gabriel Jesus header.

Jesus came far closer to breaking the deadlock on the half-hour mark, racing in behind before seeing his shot blocked away by the defiant Sa.

The opener finally arrived in the 36th minute, Foden converting from Raheem Sterling's back-heeled assist after City's slick play had Olympiacos chasing shadows.

Sterling had the busy Sa scrambling across his line to repel a dipping free-kick in first-half stoppage time, with City denied again after the interval as Ilkay Gundogan's effort flashed wide and Joao Cancelo's flick was saved.

Olympiacos were simply not able to apply any pressure – their first shot did not arrive until the 88th minute – leaving City to coast to a win that was brightened further by the late introduction of Sergio Aguero from the bench after an injury lay-off.

 

What does it mean? City's welcome top-flight distraction

The loss at Spurs left City with just 12 points from eight matches and in the unfamiliar territory of the Premier League's bottom half.

This result was a tonic to those domestic woes and it affords Guardiola the chance to make some changes for the remaining two group games, knowing safe passage to the knockout phase is assured.

For Olympiacos, while second spot is still up for grabs, a third-place finish and a berth in the Europa League might be a more likely prospect.

Foden shines bright

Foden scored twice for his country in an eye-catching display against Iceland in which he also showcased some dazzling skills.

He was lively in Greece too, keeping his cool to score what proved to be the winner with one of his six shots, while also creating four chances.

Sa under siege

City had 11 shots on target, seven coming during a first half in which the hosts failed to even register a touch in City's penalty area, so Sa was indeed a busy man.

He was an excellent last line of defence but his all-action outing stood in stark contrast to the anonymous performance of the Olympiacos attack.

Konstantinos Fortounis had just 53 touches and not one of them was a shot on target.

What's next?

City host Burnley this weekend before a trip to Porto next Tuesday, while for Olympiacos it is a top-of-the-table clash at Aris before heading to Marseille on the European stage.

  322 Hits

'It's a good beginning for us' - Tagoe stresses importance of Morocco test for Ghana

The coach has backed her side to make a fine return from the coronavirus hiatus against the Atlas Lionesses next week

Ghana women's head coach Mercy Tagoe has outlined the value of the international friendly with Morocco as the Black Queens begin preparations for the 2022 Africa Women's Cup of Nations.

The West Africans missed out on the chance to make it back for the first time to the Women's World Cup since 2007 as they crashed out early from the Awcon 2018 group stage on home soil.

Putting the setback behind them, the Black Queens finished second to Chile at the 2020 Turkish Women's Cup in March and are eager to continue their fine build-up to the continental showpiece in 2022.

Ahead of the showdown with the Atlas Lionesses in Accra, the tactician believes the test match will boost her side's readiness for upcoming major competitions.

"Basically, this is about the preparation towards our qualifiers early next year," Tagoe told the Ghana FA website

"We are gradually coming out of Covid-19 and its good news having such a game in hand. After returning from Turkey, there were no football activities and now that the ban has been lifted, we are lucky to get this international friendly and it means a lot to us as a team.

"Fortunately, every player is cooperating very well. Even though we have not been in camp for a long time, as per our little time here, I invited players who are already training after the ban on football was lifted. I think so far so good with the team's output.

"I thank God that our current President Kurt Edwin Simeon Okraku and his Executive Council members have the development of women's football at heart, and want to see women’s football at a certain level that, we could rub shoulders with the Europeans and it’s a good beginning for us."

Tagoe will hope to guide her side to victory against the North African champions at the Accra Sports Stadium on November 30.

Original author: Samuel Ahmadu
  257 Hits

Kekana dedicates Fifa Puskas award nomination to late Ngcongca

The Mamelodi Sundowns skipper will challenge Luis Suarez, Andre-Pierre Gignac and Heung-min Son for the prestigious Fifa award

Hlompho Kekana has dedicated his Fifa Puskas award nomination to former Mamelodi Sundowns teammate Anele Ngcongca.

The former Genk right back who was set to be unveiled by Amazulu on Monday evening, passed away tragically following a car accident in Durban.

In a touching post on Twitter, the Downs skipper says his shortlist for the prestigious award is for the former South Africa international.

“As a club we are still mourning the loss of our brother. In training we feel it. Amidst the sadness, it is difficult to process this, and I have to dedicate this nomination to my brother #16 Anele Ngcongca,” Kekana tweeted.

The 35-year-old’s long-range screamer in the Brazilians’ 1-1 draw against Cape Town City on August 20, 2019 made the cut alongside Tottenham Hotspur’s Son Heung-min, Atletico Madrid’s Luis Suarez, Caroline Weir (Manchester City), Leonel Quinonez (Universidad Catolica, Zlatko Junuzoic (Rapid Wien), Sophie Ingle (Arsenal Women), Andre-Pierre Gignac (UANL Tigres), Shirley Cruz (Costa Rica women), Jordan Flores (Shamrock Rovers) and Giorgian De Arrascaeta (Ceara SC).

This is not the first time Kekana would be listed for the accolade after his goal for South Africa versus Cameroon in March 2016 was considered for that year’s prize. Nevertheless, he did not win the award.

“The winner of the Fifa Puskas Award will be selected by an international jury comprising a panel of Fifa legends and by the fans from all over the world registered on fifa.com. Each of the two groups of voters within the jury has the same electoral weight,” Fifa wrote in a statement.

Voting is already open and will close on December 9 with the three finalists revealed two days later.

Winner will be crowned at The Best Fifa Football Awards on December 17 and the 2020 winner will replace Hungarian Daniel Zsori, who won it last year.

Meanwhile, Liverpool duo of Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane will compete for the Best Fifa Men's Player alongside Barcelona's Lionel Messi, Paris Saint-Germain's Kylian Mbappe and Juventus star Cristiano Ronaldo.

Original author: Shina Oludare
  300 Hits

'Martial's not a good centre-forward' - Scholes remains unconvinced by 'moody' Man Utd star

The Red Devils legend has been critical of the Frenchman in the past, with his display against Istanbul Basaksehir doing little to change his opinion

Paul Scholes has reiterated his belief that Anthony Martial is not capable of being Manchester United's main striker, insisting that he doesn't possess the necessary attributes to play in the role on a regular basis.

The France international featured in United's 4-1 win over Istanbul Basaksehir although failed to make a significant impact, with Bruno Fernandes proving to be the star of the show as he netted two goals from midfield.

Martial has often been Solskjaer's first choice to occupy the number nine position in the 2020-21 campaign, although Edinson Cavani was given the chance to prove his fitness in the Champions League match at Old Trafford on Tuesday night.

The Uruguayan forward attracted widespread praise for his tireless running over the 90 minutes although there is every chance that the United boss will move Martial back to the centre-forward role for the trip to Southampton in the Premier League on Sunday.

Scholes, though, isn't convinced that Martial is capable of playing the position effectively, insisting that he lacks the required movement, as well the ability to play with his back to goal, to be able flourish in that role.

He told BT Sport: "Martial's strength... we’ve spoke about him being a centre-forward, he's not a good centre-forward.

"I don’t think he's got that movement for centre-forward, he's not good with his back to goal. But when he gets the ball and he's facing someone, it's a different position. You see him going at someone."

When asked if Martial relies heavily on confidence, Scholes added: "Definitely. He's a little bit moody and you see him. But once he gets a goal there's every chance he'll go on to get three or four."

It's not the first time that United legend Scholes has questioned Martial's performances, with the 46-year-old having claimed back in October that the former Monaco star had "almost conned us" into thinking he was a top central striker.

Indeed, after scoring 23 goals across all competitions last season, Martial has managed just two in the 2020-21 campaign up to now, with both of them coming in the Champions League.

Original author: Stephen Darwin
  209 Hits

Broke Gor Mahia stranded for APR clash, FKF ready to buy them tickets

The Kenyan champions are yet to secure travel tickets for their trip to Kigali for the first leg match on Saturday

Gor Mahia are stranded in Nairobi and could miss their trip to Kigali to face APR in the preliminary match of the Caf Champions League on Saturday.

Suspended club official Sam Ochola has confirmed in a signed statement the club is broke and that players did not turn out for training on Wednesday.

“Gor Mahia is broke! We want to gather any available monetary support we can to reduce our gaping operational costs, even if there are no kickbacks to us, individuals - it is for the sake of the club,” Ochola wrote in the statement obtained by Goal.

“FKF was to disburse Sh3million immediately to enable Gor Mahia to travel to Rwanda, a mandatory Covid-19 test was also to be carried out today [Wednesday] at 3 pm but players are on strike as we speak.”

Goal can now reveal the team’s plans to travel to Rwanda on Wednesday have hit a snag because they are yet to purchase tickets and test players and officials for Covid-19.

Another source who did not want to be named has told Goal the team can only travel on Friday as there are no flights to Rwanda on Thursday.

“I am very disappointed and cannot call this my club, the club I love because I fear that the club standards are going down,” said the source.

“The players have not trained today [Wednesday] because they are asking for money, they have not been paid and also even the mandatory test for Covid-19 for the travelling party has not been conducted, I fear APR will beat us.”

When reached for comment, FKF, CEO Barry Otieno told Goal they are ready to help the clubs secure tickets and travel for the first match in Kigali, but only if they write to them formally.

“We have been informed of Gor Mahia’s situation and are ready to cover for the team’s air tickets to Rwanda using funds from FKF Premier League sponsors,” Otieno told Goal on Wednesday.

“The federation’s proposal has been shared with Gor Mahia club officials and we are awaiting feedback from them.”

The last time Gor Mahia played against APR was in 2008 during the Confederation Cup where the army side beat K'Ogalo 6-0 on aggregate.

Original author: Dennis Mabuka
  217 Hits

Alderweireld injury boost as Mourinho gives update after Tottenham defender forced off against Man City

The Portuguese boss has revealed that the Belgian defender's muscular issue is not as bad as originally feared

Tottenham have been handed an injury boost heading into the Christmas period, with Jose Mourinho delivering a positive update on Toby Alderweireld after seeing him forced off against Manchester City.

Alderweireld hobbled off holding his groin in the latter stages of Spurs' 2-0 home victory over City on Saturday, with summer signing Joe Rodon coming on in his place for the final few minutes.

Asked whether the Belgian's knock was a serious one, Mourinho told Sky Sports post-match: "I would say so.

"I just feel sorry for Toby. He did a fantastic performance, he has an important injury. It's the injury of fatigue."

It was initially feared that a man who has played a key role in Tottenham's rise to the Premier League summit would be out of action until late December, leaving Mourinho short on centre-back options at a potentially pivotal stage of the season.

However, the Portuguese has now revealed that Alderweireld's recovery time will likely be quicker than originally expected, and he could return to the pitch just in time to help Spurs negotiate their way through a congested festive fixture list.

"Toby has a muscular injury but not as big as we initially thought," Mourinho told a press conference ahead of a Europa League meeting with Ludogorets on Thursday night.

"He will have his time to be out but not like a month, which was immediately what we thought. I'd say between two and four weeks."

Alderweireld will be forced to sit out Spurs' latest European clash, and will also be unavailable for selection when they make the short trip across London to face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.

Mourinho's side are currently sitting two points clear of the Blues at the top of the Premier League standings, having recorded six wins, two draws and only one defeat from their opening nine games.

Tottenham are already being tipped to dethrone Liverpool after their bright start to the campaign, and Tim Sherwood has been among those to lavish praise on their current manager for the way he has brought the best out of a squad that had previously been lacking in confidence.

“Jose has brainwashed his players to believe they have to work to achieve something – they need to win trophies, this group of players," the ex-Spurs midfielder said earlier this week.

“And why wouldn’t you believe in him? He’s won 20 major trophies in his career and you’re winning football matches, so then you start believing that this guy is the real deal, he knows what he’s talking about, and why can’t we win the league?"

  202 Hits

Galiwango to wear jersey number three as Vipers unveil full squad

The Venoms have unleashed their full squad as they get ready to defend the league title and take part in Caf
Original author: Dennis Mabuka
  284 Hits

Dani Carvajal expected to miss rest of season with injury

The Namibia international’s impact has immediately been felt after arriving at the Brazilians in September

Former Kaizer Chiefs defender Mohammed Ouseb says the warm welcome Peter Shalulile received at Mamelodi Sundowns was key to the forward's high start to life at Chloorkop where more can be expected from him.

Shalulile arrived at Downs from Highlands Park at the beginning of this season to quickly establish himself as a starter and has managed two Premier Soccer League (PSL) goals and an assist in four matches.

He has appeared in every match Sundowns has played this term as he also featured in the MTN8 quarter-finals defeat by Bloemfontein Celtic.

The Namibia forward’s bright start points at him again contending for the PSL Golden Boot award he won last season after managing 16 goals to become joint top-scorer with Orlando Pirates forward Frank Mhango.

Ouseb says finding a welcoming environment at Sundowns has helped Shalulile feel at home, something he feels has added quality to his game as he insists that more is coming from the striker.

“I remember one particular year when I and Woody Jacobs took those boys [Namibia Under-20] to Ghana as part of our U-20 national team training camp, it was there when I got the opportunity to see and work with Peter and there was no doubt that the boy was headed for the bigger stage,” said Ouseb as per Far Post.

“He is hard-working, humble and is an all-rounder. The young man is a workhorse and a player any coach can rely on. I really also have to say the way that Sundowns welcomed him also made it easier for Peter to settle down and the team’s style of play also fits very well with how Peter moves and positions himself.

“Sundowns is the perfect fit for him and I can only encourage him to keep going, he’s only getting started.”

Shalulile appears to have struck an understanding with midfielder Themba Zwane as well as fellow new arrival Kermit Erasmus.

The trio’s impressive showing has so far seen Sundowns not showing signs of missing the injured Uruguayan duo of Gaston Sirino and Mauricio Affonso as well as Sibusiso Vilakazi.

With Sirino being heavily linked with a move to Al Ahly, Lebohang Maboe, Vilakazi, Affonso and Lesedi Kapinga could act as back-up to the Shalulile-Zwane-Erasmus partnership.

Original author: Michael Madyira
  212 Hits

Gustavsson's 'line in the sand' moment: Pressure on Matildas to deliver vs. Canada

A former Blues midfielder heaped praise upon the Frenchman after seeing him net the winning goal against Rennes in the Champions League

Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud is "one of the Premier League's most underrated players", according to Joe Cole.

Giroud headed home his second goal of the season to give Chelsea a 2-1 win away at Rennes in the Champions League on Tuesday night.

The 34-year-old's late effort booked the Blues a place in the round of 16, and he could now be in contention to feature when Frank Lampard's men play host to Tottenham in Sunday's London derby.

Giroud has been restricted to just four top-flight appearances this term, all from the substitutes' bench, having fallen behind summer signing Timo Werner and Tammy Abraham in the squad pecking order.

The Frenchman wasn't given the chance to build on his impressive post-lockdown form in 2019-20 - a period in which he managed to hit eight goals in 11 matches - but Lampard insisted he still has an important role to play after his star turn against Rennes.

Cole is in awe of how Giroud has remained so consistent in front of goal since moving to Stamford Bridge from Arsenal in January 2018, and thinks Lampard will try to keep the veteran striker happy so that he stays in west London beyond the winter transfer window.

“I think he’s one of the Premier League’s most underrated players, he consistently performs whether it be for Arsenal or Chelsea,” the former Blues midfielder told BT Sport.

“It’s not just moments like today such as getting the winning goal, it’s his general demeanour around the place, he’s a good player in the dressing room.

“There’s a reason why Didier Deschamps relies on him for France. Frank will not want Giroud walking out of the door in January.

“It was a great header from Giroud. That was amazing.”

Cole also reserved special praise for Mason Mount, who provided the assist for Callum Hudson-Odoi to open the scoring at Roazhon Park.

“He’s a manager’s dream. He’s in that bracket when he gets on the pitch and he gets on with it, he does what’s required in the moment," he added.

"He’s everywhere on the pitch, but on top of that, he’s a genius as well - he can make something happen, he can score a goal, make a pass, he’s so down to earth.

"He makes that (assist vs Newcastle) look easy, but he’s fizzed that into an area where Fernandez has no option but to put it in his own goal. He does the right thing with the football at all times, he’s well-schooled, he’s a great lad.

"He’s a mainstay now for Chelsea and England, for me.”

  120 Hits

Video: Nivea Men Football Insight - Inter vs Real Madrid

Video: Nivea Men - Five Real Madrid Facts | Goal.com

UEFA Champions League

15:23 GMT 25/11/2020

Hakimi Eden Hazard Real Madrid Inter Champions League

Goal.com & Nivea link up to bring you these five exclusive facts ahead of the Inter Milan vs Real Madrid Uefa Champions League encounter

Original author: Goal
  254 Hits

PlayStation 5 stock: Can I play FIFA 21 on PS5 before Christmas?

The new console sold out on launch day, but some retailers expect to have more units in stock in time for the holiday period

The PlayStation 5 is one of the most in-demand presents for Christmas 2020 and the holiday period.

As a result, pre-orders everywhere sold out in minutes, while launch day saw retail websites crash as so many people tried to get on and buy any stock which hadn't been pre-ordered.

Many people were disappointed as launch day stock sold out almost instantly as well, but there is still hope that new stock will arrive before the end of the year.

This always leaves FIFA fans in a bind as they wait to get their hands on the new console before playing next-generation FIFA 21.

Contents

When does FIFA 21 launch on PlayStation 5? Will old versions of FIFA work on PlayStation 5? Do I have to buy another version of FIFA 21 for PlayStation 5? When is the PlayStation 5 back in stock? How much does the PlayStation 5 cost? Where can I buy a PlayStation 5 before Christmas?

When is FIFA 21 released for PlayStation 5?

FIFA 21 will be released on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X on Friday, December 4, 2020.

It was released on PlayStation 4 and Xbox One on Friday October 9.

The game will be available through the PlayStation Store as well as in a physical edition that can be bought from retailers.

However, as there are two different versions of the PlayStation 5, only the more expensive model comes with a disc drve to allow you to play physical games.

You must buy the downloadable version of FIFA 21 if you wish to play it on the PlayStation 5 Digital Edition.

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Can I play older versions of FIFA on PlayStation 5?

The PlayStation 5 is backwards compatible with the majority of PlayStation 4 games, so you will be able to play previous editions of FIFA on PlayStation 5.

Any PlayStation 4 game that you have bought through the Store or downloaded can be re-downloaded onto the new console.

If you have the disc edition of the PlayStation 5, you can also play using the physical copies of PlayStation 4 games.

However, PlayStation 3 and older games cannot be played on the new console, meaning you can only play games from FIFA 14 onwards.

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Do I have to buy another version of FIFA 21 for PlayStation 5?

If you have already bought FIFA 21 on PlayStation 4, you will not need to purchase it again on PlayStation 5.

EA Sports is offering a Dual Entitlement package which means you can easily upgrade from the PS4 version to the PS5 verson of FIFA 21 at no extra cost.

You can upgrade by inserting the PlayStation 4 disc into the PlayStation 5 or else simply download automatically from the Store after logging in to the PlayStation Network.

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When is the PlayStation 5 back in stock?

Retailers in the UK are hopeful of having more PlayStation 5 stock in December 2020.

All pre-ordered and launch day stock sold out very quickly with Sony Interactive Entertainment chief Jim Ryan confirming: “Everything is sold. Absolutely everything is sold.”

US retail giant Walmart hopes to have PlayStation 5 consoles back in stock for Black Friday, November 27, while GameStop in America has also confirmed that they will have limited stock available on November 27.

Currys in the UK says it is "working very hard" to get more stock, while toy store Smyths says that more stock is coming in December, but has not given an exact date.

It has been the "biggest console launch ever" for PlayStation, with eager gamers keen to get their hands on the device.

A message from PlayStation said: "Demand for PS5 is unprecedented, so we wanted to confirm that more PS5 inventory will be coming to retailers before the end of the year - please stay in touch with your local retailers."

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How much does the PlayStation 5 cost?

PS5 version UK price US price
Standard £449.99 $499.99
Digital £359.99 $399.99

There are two different versions of the PlayStation 5, with the standard edition having a disc drive where you can play PS5, PS4 games and DVDs.

The Digital Edition of the PlayStation 5 is £90 cheaper than the disc version in the UK and $100 cheaper in the US. However, on the Digital Edition, you can only play downloaded games and movies.

Most downloaded games purchased on PlayStation 4 can be played on PlayStation 5, while you need a disc version of the PS5 to play any physical PS4 games.

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Where can I buy a PlayStation 5 before Christmas?

No retailer has given a definite date for PlayStation 5 stock returning in December, but many have told shoppers to keep an eye on their websites and social media channels over the next few weeks.

It is expected that new stock will arrive in both the UK and US before the holiday period, with some retailers such as Walmart even optimistic that they will have PlayStation 5s available on Black Friday.

*Note that PS5 stock availability will vary between retailer and some outlets have suspended orders while demand is catered for.

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Original author: Ronan Murphy
  277 Hits

‘If Blue Bulls are Liverpool, maybe Western Province are Orlando Pirates' - Hlungwani

The Buccaneers have been compared with a rugby team as the 2020 Currie Cup season starts this weekend

Western Province assistant coach Rito Hlungwani says they are the Orlando Pirates of South African rugby.

Hlungwani was responding to their rivals Blue Bulls' head coach Jake White, who recently compared his side to English giants Liverpool FC and Manchester United.

“I’m very happy. I signed for this franchise on the basis that they are a sleeping giant,” White said on IOL after guiding Bulls to the 2020 Super Rugby Unlocked title over the weekend. 

“This is one of the best franchises in the world – this is the Liverpool or the Manchester United of rugby. You look at the teams around the world and the Bulls will be up there.

“You look at the Real Madrids, Juventuses, Liverpools or Man Uniteds, if you went to the top five or six, seven rugby clubs in the world, this would be one of them."

The Bulls are one of the giants of South African rugby and they are co-owned by Mamelodi Sundowns president Patrice Motsepe with the mining magnet having bought 37% of the franchise 12 months ago.

The Pretoria-based giants are set to take on Western Province in the opening round of the 2020 Currie Cup season at Newlands Stadium in Cape Town on Saturday afternoon.

Hlungwani has taken a bit of a dig at White by stating that Liverpool struggled for 30 years before finally clinching the league title during the 2019/20 season.

“I just would like to say I do like a bit of soccer myself, so I think Province might be compared to Orlando Pirates,” Hlungwani said in a press conference. 

“It must be nice for them [the Bulls] to compare themselves to Liverpool, who struggled for 30 years to win anything.

"Liverpool have a good coach in Jurgen Klopp. I mean Up the Bucs if anything."

Pirates are one of the biggest football teams in the country and they were the first PSL club to have won three major trophies in a single season back-to-back between 2010 and 2012. 

Watch Hlungwani's response to White below: 

 

Original author: Austin Ditlhobolo
  227 Hits

'Ozil could get into any team in the Premier League' - Wilshere 'surprised' by Arteta's stance on Arsenal midfielder

A former Emirates Stadium favourite doesn't think the German is being left out of the Gunners squad for footballing reasons

Mesut Ozil "could get into any team in the Premier League", according to Jack Wilshere, who is "surprised" by Mikel Arteta's stance on the Arsenal midfielder.

Ozil has racked up 254 appearances for Arsenal since moving to Emirates Stadium from Real Madrid for a then-club record fee of £42 million ($56m) in 2013, scoring 44 goals while also providing an impressive 77 assists.

However, the ex-Germany international's last outing for the Gunners came during a 1-0 win over West Ham on March 7, with Arteta taking the decision to exile the playmaker from his squad following the three-month coronavirus-enforced break in the 2019-20 season.

The 31-year-old didn't see a single minute of action as Arsenal secured an eighth-place top-flight finish and a record-extending 14th FA Cup triumph, and his fortunes have not improved at the start of the new campaign.

Arteta left Ozil out of his final Premier League and Europa League squads in October, prompting the ex-Madrid star to question the club's loyalty in a passionate rant on social media.

He admitted to being saddened by his current situation, but also pledged to keep fighting for his place heading into the final eight months of his current contract.

Wilshere doesn't think Ozil is being left out of the Gunners team for footballing reasons, and has insisted that his old team-mate is still capable of playing for any of the top teams in English football.

"Yes, I am [surprised], because I played with him and I used to love playing with him," the former Arsenal talisman told The ITV Football Football Show.

"I really enjoyed it and he is one of the best I have played with, so, yes, I am surprised. But there is obviously something that we don't know because a player of his quality [should be playing].

"I reckon he could get into any team in the Premier League, that is my opinion, and to not even have the opportunity to compete for a place is difficult to understand.

"But there must be a reason, I don't know."

Wilshere also rejected the notion of laziness being one of the main factors behind Ozil's continued omission, pointing out that the German's work off the ball often went unnoticed during his time at the club.

"You look at the number 10s and a lot of them run in behind, they do a lot of work without the ball and the luxury players don't," he added.

"Look, Ozil... there was a lot of shouts about him being lazy, but I have never found him to be lazy.

"I know this is easy to say, but if you looked at his stats after a game, he wasn't at the bottom of it. He is also pretty quick, surprisingly."

  283 Hits

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