Ronald Koeman insists Southampton's squad IS strong enough to handle Europa League demands

 Kampusbet - Ronald Koeman insists Southampton's squad IS strong enough to handle Europa League demands 

 

 

 

 

Judi Online -  Ronald Koeman insists Southampton’s squad is strong enough to compete in Europe AND the Premier League this season.


The south coast side finished seventh in their best ever Premier League season to qualify for continental competition for the first time since 2003.

They lost influential players Morgan Schneiderlin and Nathaniel Clyne and failed to sign loan defender Toby Alderweireld on a permanent deal, but Koeman has boosted the squad with Dutch midfield ace Jordy Clasie, as well as Juanmi, Cedric Soares, Maarten Stekelenburg and Cuco Martina.

English sides have historically struggled with the gruelling Europa League schedule but Koeman maintains the Saints will be a force to be reckoned on two fronts this season.

Their punishing season starts on Thursday night as they host Vitesse Arnhem at St Mary’s in the first leg of their Europa League qualifier.

Koeman said: “For Southampton it is a new situation, a new experience for the players, the club and the fans.

“I’m not worried about playing in Europe and playing in the Premier League because I believe in the qualities of the players, the spirit of the players and to do it well in both competitions.

“I have the experience of coaching teams in the league and then playing in the Champions League.

Bandar Bola -  “That is one of the reasons why I have a full and strong squad with balance of the team to manage both competitions.

“We didn’t let as many players leave as last season which is very important. We lost quality players but the replacements were the same quality. We are in a good place.

“The new guys showed already they have a lot of quality so I am really relaxed on that aspect.”

Saints ended their defensive crisis by making Steven Caulker their sixth summer addition, signing him on a season-long loan from QPR.

England international Caulker, 23, played 35 times but couldn’t help QPR avoid the drop last season after signing for £8million from relegated Cardiff.

Skipper Jose Fonte had urged Southampton chiefs to give him a new centre back partner quickly and the Portuguese international is happy with Koeman and transfer guru Les Reed’s swift signing.

He said: “I think he’s competition, and having a player of his calibre, a player who has represented England, shown a lot of potential, still young, is going to make the other centre backs on your toes and working harder to keep our place in the team.

“It’s very important we have this kind of player in the club and we need competition in every place.”
Koeman added: “It’s a good opportunity for the player and we need more competition in the centre back position and that’s very good news.”

Manchester United players used to exercise their eyes before games, reveals Gary Neville

Kampusbet -  Manchester United players used to exercise their eyes before games, reveals Gary Neville 

 

 

 

Judi Online -   Gary Neville has revealed that when he was at Manchester United players used to warm up their eyes before games.

The remarkable practice was instigated by vision specialist Professor Gail Stephenson of the University of Liverpool.

Stephenson, who tragically passed away last weekend, was brought into the club by then-manager Sir Alex Ferguson to help improve the players' 3D vision.

Speaking about the exercises before her death, she said: "In soccer, improving the way players use their eyes can improve both the quality of the information their eyes receive and the speed they process the information.

Bandar Bola -  "Therefore the quicker they instigate the action, the more effective they will be during a game.

"Approximately 80 per cent of the information we use to make any decision for an action comes from vision."

United's players wore black armbands for their match against San Jose Earthquakes as a sign of respect while Neville descroibed her as a "leader in her field". 

Stephenson was also behind the idea to ditch Manchester United's infamous grey kit. in 1996, saying it made it more difficult for the players to spot each other.

Liverpool legend says Raheem Sterling has ''moved disgracefully''

Kampusbet -  Liverpool legend says Raheem Sterling has ''moved disgracefully''

Judi Online -  Steve McMahon believes Liverpool are better off without the “disgraceful” antics of Raheem Sterling as he backed his old club to land a top four finish in the Premier League this season, report the Liverpool Echo.
 

The Kop favourite was angered by the youngster’s behaviour prior to the Reds sanctioning a £49million move to Manchester City.

Sterling demanded a move after telling Liverpool he had no intention of penning a new contract.

His camp also claimed he had to get away from Anfield because his relationship with Brendan Rodgers had broken down – something the manager has vehemently denied.

As soon as Raheem said he wanted to leave there was no coming back,” McMahon told the ECHO.

Bandar Bola -  “He has disrespected everything about Liverpool – all the core values at Liverpool that players are brought up on.

“It’s a wonderful place to be. There’s a way of doing things. Okay, things happen when agents get involved, but you’ve got to show respect to people and Raheem didn’t do that.

“You have to respect your peers and the staff at Liverpool Football Club.

“Lots of players move on gracefully but he’s moved disgracefully in my opinion.”

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers praises wonderkid Joe Gomez and claims he WON'T send youngster on loan

Kampusbet -  Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers praises wonderkid Joe Gomez and claims he WON'T send youngster on loan 

Judi Online -  Brendan Rodgers was full of praise for defender Joe Gomez after an assured performance in the 2-1 win over Brisbane Roar.

The 18-year-old centre-back started on the left of Liverpool's back four at the Suncorp Stadium, but impressed as the Reds came from 1-0 down to beat the A-League side with goals from Adam Lallana and James Milner.

But despite good performances from the England midfielders, it was Gomez for whom Rodgers reserved special praise.

“He’s only 18 years of age, but seeing him play at left-back for the first time, he looked an outstanding athlete and a really good footballer.

"I’ve seen him at centre-half and at right-back, but I wanted to see him at left-back – and I thought he was outstanding," added Rodgers.

And after catching his boss' eye, the teenage defender looks to have secured his place in the first-team picture this season after Rodgers said he wouldn't loan the former Charlton man out.

“He’s staying. I’ve seen enough in this period; you judge young players, I always bring them in and over pre-season have a good idea of whether we’re going to keep them or not.

“Seeing him, in particular close at hand and his personality – he’ll be staying, he’ll get games."

Bandar Bola -  Long-term, Gomez sees himself as a central defender. But while competition at Anfield is fierce, Rodgers is aware that the youngster is an option for him in the middle of a back four.

“Gomez has played there a lot of his career,” continued Rodgers.

“We took him in from Charlton where he played as a centre-half as a two, played in a back three and he’s also played as a right-back, so he’s got all the tools to play across the back four. You saw him tonight play at left-back – he’s a big talent.”

Signed from Charlton, the young defender is certainly one for the long term. But perhaps he’s got a role to play in the more immediate future.

At the Valley, he showed his performances, nominally as a right-back, earned rave reviews. At youth levels, he’s also been used as a centre-back and in a midfield role too, largely to help him round his game. Here, with Nathaniel Clyne at right-back, Gomez was offered the opportunity on the left.

It’s a position which the Reds have had problems, despite £20million worth of Spanish talent in Jose Enrique and Alberto Moreno. The former remains thoroughly underwhelming, going completely off the boil having originally impressed in the Premier League at Newcastle, while the latter remains a weapon going forward (thanks to his pace and directness) but raw defensively.

Gomez has an experienced head on his young shoulders, reads the game well, and knows when to play and when to be safe. That he isn’t naturally left-footed may work against him, but neither were the likes of Jamie Carragher (in his early days) nor Denis Irwin, Philip Lahm, or Bixente Lizarazu.

Does Christian Benteke's Twitter activity hint at move to Manchester United?

Kampusbet -  Does Christian Benteke's Twitter activity hint at move to Manchester United? 

Judi Online -  Aston Villa striker Christian Benteke quickly unfavourited a tweet which he had earlier favourited linking him with a move to Manchester United.

The Belgian forward has been a target of Liverpool for much of the summer, the Manchester Evening News reports.

However, reports have now begun to surface that the 24-year-old is also on Louis van Gaal’s radar.

United are on the hunt for a new striker after the departure of Robin van Persie to Fenerbahce, which was confirmed on Tuesday.

And Benteke, who has a £32m release clause in his contract, has appeared to give his seal of approval of the idea via Twitter.

Earlier today he favourited a tweet from a fan who said the star was “exactly what they needed” as back-up to Wayne Rooney.

That’s despite him not even being tagged in the post in question.

Bandar Bola -  He has since un-favourited it.

However, it did not stop many fans interpreting it as a sign he would prefer a switch to Old Trafford over one to Anfield.

Earlier this week, Villa boss Tim Sherwood was adamant that the Belgian striker wouldn't be sold unless someone unless someone agrees to meet his release clause.

He said: “I think he stays. We know Christian is a very good player and we want to keep hold of him.

“If someone matches that buy-out clause there is nothing we can do about it but until that happens he is an Aston Villa player and we are all very pleased about that.”

Bastian Schweinsteiger flying out to join Manchester United's US tour after bidding Bayern Munich goodbye

Kampusbet -  Bastian Schweinsteiger flying out to join Manchester United's US tour after bidding Bayern Munich goodbye 

Judi Online -  Bastian Schweinsteiger will fly out for Manchester United’s pre-season tour of the US On Monday after bidding farewell to Bayern Munich.

The Germany captain completed his £14million move after flying into Manchester by private jet and signing a three-year deal believed to be worth £20m.

The World Cup winner, 30, who worked with United boss Louis van Gaal when he was in charge of Bayern, said he could not turn down the chance to join the Reds.

Midfielder Schweinsteiger, who played 500 games for Bayern over 13 years, scoring 67 goals, told the club’s fans: “The decision was very hard to make as you and Bayern have and always will be an extremely important part of my life.

“Nevertheless, I would like to again gain experience at a new club.

Bandar Bola -  “My destination is United. I hope you understand my decision. No one can take away the incredible journey we had together.

“I know there has been a lot of speculation about my future in recent weeks and months and I just wanted to thank you for the fantastic time we spent together.

“We are always going to have a bond and I will keep you in my heart forever.

“I hope you, dear fans, understand that I have chosen this path now. I think it’s a great challenge and I’m looking forward to it.”

Bastian Schweinsteiger "flattered" by Man United interest - and could move this summer, says Bayern chairman

Kampusbet -  Bastian Schweinsteiger "flattered" by Man United interest - and could move this summer, says Bayern chairman  

Judi Online -  Bastian Schweinsteiger could leave Bayern Munich this summer, the club's chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has revealed.

He also believes that the German World Cup winner is overwhelmed by the interest he has received from Premier League clubs, including that of Manchester United.

Old Trafford chiefs have reportedly been interested in securing the 30-year-old's signature and Rummenigge is the latest name to confirm that a move could take place.

Last week, Matthias Sammer, Bayern's sporting director, also confirmed that Schweinstweiger could depart the club, while Pep Guardiola said that the player would have to decide his own future.

Speaking at a press conference, Rummenigge said: “I have spoken to Bastian on the phone while we have been on holiday and will speak again now that he is back.

“I cannot deny the fact that I have understood during these conversations that he is flattered by the interest from England.

Bandar Bola -  "Our plans are not finished yet. The window is open until August 31.”

Schweinsteiger has just one season left on his current deal with Bayern and United have been alerted to his potential availability in a deal that could be worth around £15million.

Louis van Gaal, who converted Schweinsteiger from a wide player into a central midfielder when he w as at Bayern Munich, is desperate to be reunited.

Bayern boss Guardiola has turned the heat up on Schweinsteiger by demanding the midfielder makes his mind up over where he wants to play next season.

"Of course I am planning to work with Basti next season,” said Guardiola.

"But he must decide what he does alone. I've told him: 'The future depends on you'.

"Basti has managed a great career - but he has to decide."

John Barnes warns Christian Benteke signing would force Liverpool to play more direct football

Kampusbet - John Barnes warns Christian Benteke signing would force Liverpool to play more direct football 

Judi Online -  Christian Benteke's capture would force Liverpool to change their style of play, according to John Barnes.

The Reds legend believes landing the Aston Villa striker would mean a more direct approach at Anfield.

Barnes said: “Liverpool have to adapt the way they play to suit Christian Benteke.

“When they play with Raheem Sterling and Philippe Coutinho, they pass the ball through midfield and always want to score the perfect goal.

“With Benteke, you get the ball wide and then in the box, you need to be a little bit more direct.”

Benteke, signed for £7million from Genk three years ago, is set to tell Villa boss Tim Sherwood that he wants to move on when he reports back for pre-season training this week.

The Midlands club, however, continue to maintain he will not be sold for any less than his £32.5million release clause.

Bandar Bola -  Villa's stance has already seen Spurs back off but Liverpool remain desperate to sign the Belgian after losing Sevilla striker Carlos Bacca to AC Milan.

Following their sixth-placed finish last season Brendan Rodgers has made a number of new signings, including £29million attacker Roberto Firmino, James Milner on a free and £15million Nathaniel Clyne from Southampton.

Barnes, however, believes Benteke - who scored 15 goals last season - would be the game-changer.

Speaking to Talksport, he added: “If he comes it will need a sweeping change in the way Liverpool play. Would that be a bad thing? Not necessarily, balance is important.

“At times Liverpool overplayed which really came off two years ago but didn’t last season. He would cause people a lot of problems.”

Liverpool star Raheem Sterling is Europe's most valuable young player, according to new report

Kampusbet -  Liverpool star Raheem Sterling is Europe's most valuable young player, according to new report 

Judi Online -  Liverpool winger Raheem Sterling is the most valuable young player in Europe, according to a new study.

The 20-year-old England international, whose future at Anfield has been the topic of intense speculation this summer, has been given a weighted value of £35.05million (49.3million euros) by the Soccerex 20 U-21 report.

Sterling tops a list of the 20 most highly rated players aged under 21 on the continent identified by the study, which has been produced to mark the 20th anniversary of Soccerex, a global football business event.

He is some way ahead of Paris St Germain's Brazilian defender Marquinhos in second place at £27.84million (39.77million euros) with Manchester United new boy Memphis Depay in third at £23.8million (33.64million euros).

Soccerex chief executive Duncan Revie said: "This report demonstrates the hugely talented pool of players under the age of 21 available to our European clubs.

"Ultimately, the lifeblood of any successful club is the players they are able to develop and nurture and the report identifies the premium that clubs place on this kind of exciting young talent."

The Football Value Index, compiled by sports agency Prime Time Sport, takes into account the player's age, position, current club, contract length, market value perception, international caps, minutes played, goals, injuries and technical quality.

Bandar Bola -  Seventeen of the 20 players were born and bred in Europe with Marquinhos, Atletico Madrid's Uruguayan defender Jose Gimenez and Benfica's Brazilian midfielder Anderson Talisca the only exceptions.

Three more English players make the list - Manchester United full-back Luke Shaw in ninth place (£17.77million, 25.39million euros), Everton's John Stones in 16th (£11.8million, 16.85million euros) and Arsenal's Calum Chambers in 19th (£10.54million, 15.06million euros).

However, no fewer than nine men will be plying their trade in the Barclays Premier League next season with Frenchman Kurt Zouma at Chelsea, German Emre Can and Belgian Divock Origi at Liverpool and Arsenal's Hector Bellerin, who appear in 11th, 15th, 18th and 20th places respectively, joining Sterling, Depay and the rest of the English contingent.

Interestingly, both Shaw and Chambers are rated at significantly lower values than the fees paid for them by United and the Gunners - the report gives Shaw's fee as £25million while Chambers cost £16million - and author Esteve Calzada suggests that could be a result of English clubs paying a premium for home-grown talent in order to comply with UEFA regulations.

Calzada said: "This report has produced a number of very interesting conclusions with regards to home-grown player regulations and Europe's dominance in producing the world's most valuable young talents."

Manchester United target Sergio Ramos is 'one of the best in the world', says Paul Clement

Kampusbet -  Manchester United target Sergio Ramos is 'one of the best in the world', says Paul Clement 

Judi Online -  Former Real Madrid assistant Paul Clement believes that Sergio Ramos is one of the best players in the world - and would be an asset to Manchester United.

Clement, who has worked with some of the best defenders in the world, commented on Ramos amid speculation that he is set to move to Old Trafford this summer.

The Spaniard is thought to be unsettled at Real Madrid and has asked to talk to United should they put in a bid.

But Madrid have already rejected a £29million approach for Ramos, as they believe the 128-cap man is worth more than what United would be prepared to pay.

Clement, now Derby County boss, believes that the defender will perform to the highest level regardless of which team he is playing at next season.

Bandar Bola -  Speaking to Sky, he said: "He is a wonderful player, one of the best I have ever worked with.

"[He has] so many qualities, [he is] a fantastic footballer, leader, competitor, athlete, a fantastic guy.

"He is one of the best centre-halves in the world and I've worked with some good ones like John Terry, Thiago Silva at PSG, good ones in Pepe and Raphael Varane but Ramos is up there with the best I've worked with.

"Whether at Real Madrid or United, either club are going to massively benefit. Wherever he is, it's going to a massive plus for that club."

Adam Lallana begged me to join Liverpool, reveals latest Reds signing Nathaniel Clyne

Kampusbet -  Adam Lallana begged me to join Liverpool, reveals latest Reds signing Nathaniel Clyne 

Judi Online -  Nathaniel Clyne has revealed how Adam Lallana begged him to join Liverpool.

Clyne completed his £12.5million switch from Southampton on Wednesday and says his former Saints pal urged him to move when they bumped into each other on holiday in America.

"We spoke a lot," said the England right-back. "He said he wanted me to sign and I said if the deal moves along and gets done, I'd be with him as a teammate once again.

"He said it's a good club, a big club with a huge fan base. He said the team is good and that they are a good bunch of lads. He told me I'd be made to feel welcome if I joined."

Clyne, 24, who has signed a five-year deal with Liverpool, claims teaming up again with Lallana and his other former Southampton pals Dejan Lovren and Rickie Lambert will help him hit the ground running.

"Knowing a few of the players at the club is good," said the South Londoner, who came through Crystal Palace's youth ranks before joining Saints three years ago. 

"I can join in with the lads and I reckon I'll settle down easily."

Bandar Bola -  Clyne, who had been on Manchester United's radar, claims Reds boss Brendan Rodgers can make him a better player.

"This is a place where I can improve as a player," he said. "It's definitely a good opportunity to come here and try and fulfil my potential.

"The gaffer works with young players and helps them progress. I still think there is a lot to come from me and hopefully he can bring the best out of me."

Clyne also believes Liverpool can win some trophies next year, despite their hugely-disappointing campaign.

"Yeah, definitely," he said. "You can see we've got the players to do it. I want to be competing for all the titles and trophies available.

"Hopefully we can have a good season and come out of it with some silverware."

Adam Bogdan also officially became a Liverpool player yesterday - along with fellow Bosman signings James Milner and Danny Ings - and warned Simon Mignolet he wants his No 1 spot.

"I would like to play as many games as I possibly can and be a No 1 keeper for Liverpool," said the Hungary international.