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Deportivo 0-4 Barcelona Barcelona made light work of another potentially difficult away fixture as they thrashed Deportivo La Coruna 4-0. Pep Guardiola's side won their last away match in La Liga 5-1 at city rivals Espanyol before Christmas and boast a perfect record on the road in the league this term. That record never looked in doubt on Saturday once David Villa opened the scoring after 26 minutes and Lionel Messi's brilliant free-kick at the start of the second half made it another comfortable night for the champions before late goals from Pedro and Andres Iniesta. Guardiola left Xavi - now the club's all-time record appearance holder with 550 competitive games in Barca colours - on the bench, along with holding midfielder Sergio Busquets and right-back Dani Alves. That meant starts for Seydou Keita, Javier Mascherano and Adriano, while Gerard Pique and Carles Puyol were reunited in defence after both missed last weekend's 2-1 win at home to Levante. Barca took a while to find their rhythm, but the Catalans went ahead with their first real chance of the night. That came after 26 minutes, when Messi split the Depor defence with a slide-rule pass and Villa squeezed a low shot past Daniel Aranzubia - who got a touch - from a tight angle at the near post. Eric Abidal - who scored his first ever Barca goal in four seasons at the club as Guardiola's side drew 1-1 at Athletic Bilbao in the Copa del Rey on Wednesday night - thought he had made it two 11 minutes later, but the France full-back was marginally offside before he beat Aranzubia with a neat finish. There was nothing wrong with Messi's strike six minutes into the second period, however. The Argentina forward bent a beautiful free-kick up and over the wall and into Aranzubia's top-right corner from 25 yards with his left foot to make it 2-0 to the visitors and net his 18th league goal of the season. Guardiola applauded from the dugout as his players celebrated. And they were celebrating again with 12 minutes left, when Iniesta made it 3-0. The Spain midfielder set off towards the area on a diagonal run and beat Aranzubia - who was unsighted - with a fierce low drive from the edge of the box. Barely two minutes later, Pedro made it four. Messi was the creator once more, running to the edge of the box and freeing the unmarked winger, who chipped the ball over the advancing Aranzubia to round off another spectacular night for the Catalan club. With 18 games played, Barca are provisionally five points ahead of fierce rivals Real Madrid, who host third-placed Villarreal tomorrow. And there will be more success for the Catalans on Monday, with either Xavi, Messi or Iniesta set to be named as the winner of this year's Golden Ball. Depor, meanwhile, stay provisionally in 12th place.

Guardiola: Huge satisfaction to win Barcelona tactician Pep Guardiola was ecstatic at his charges’ 4-0 stroll against Deportivo La Coruna at the Riazor. Despite anticipating a tough assignment at Deportivo's intimidating home ground, the visitors cantered to a thumping victory thanks to sizzling efforts by David Villa, Lionel Messi, Pedro and Andres Iniesta. Speaking to Marca in his post-match press conference, Guardiola admitted that he did not expect Barca to easily raid all three points. He said: "Although we won 4-0 we didn't have that many chances. We had to overcome a resilient Deportivo side, and Lotina always prepares his team well." He continued: "It always brings satisfaction to win at the Riazor, especially when you consider Barcelona's history at this ground." Guardiola was perplexed as to how his side could conjure such a majestic display especially after their grueling clash against Athletic Bilbao in the Copa del Rey last Wednesday. "It is always a mystery to see how the team respond after a game of such intensity against Athletic Bilbao with just three days of rest". Barca have now edged five points clear of arch rivals Real Madrid after Saturday's proceedings though the latter are due to play Villarreal on Sunday.

Mourinho: Kaka will feature Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has confirmed that Kaka will play a part in Sunday’s clash against Villarreal. However, the Portuguese manager also revealed that he will not field the Brazilian from the start as he continues to work his way back to full fitness. "Kaka will play," Mourinho is quoted as saying by Madrid's official website in his pre-match press conference on Saturday. "He is the only forward we have if we are losing or level. He is the only option. And if things go well and we have the match under control, he will also play in order to rest a team-mate. It is good news for Madridismo and football lovers." The former Inter Milan and Chelsea chief has also come to terms with the fact that no new strikers will arrive during the January transfer window after club president Florentino Perez confirmed that the club will not buy any forwards. "I have been working on tactics without a centre-forward," Mourinho explained "I arrive early, stay late and work on what I must work on. It's the typical life of a coach. "Everything depends on winning more or less and playing better or worse. I always try to improve, which is what I ask of my players as well. I want them to give it their all and to be good professionals like me." The capital side are now lagging some five points behind Barcelona after the Catalan giants mauled Deportivo La Coruna 4-0 on Saturday.

Mourinho: Kaka will feature Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has confirmed that Kaka will play a part in Sunday’s clash against Villarreal. However, the Portuguese manager also revealed that he will not field the Brazilian from the start as he continues to work his way back to full fitness. "Kaka will play," Mourinho is quoted as saying by Madrid's official website in his pre-match press conference on Saturday. "He is the only forward we have if we are losing or level. He is the only option. And if things go well and we have the match under control, he will also play in order to rest a team-mate. It is good news for Madridismo and football lovers." The former Inter Milan and Chelsea chief has also come to terms with the fact that no new strikers will arrive during the January transfer window after club president Florentino Perez confirmed that the club will not buy any forwards. "I have been working on tactics without a centre-forward," Mourinho explained "I arrive early, stay late and work on what I must work on. It's the typical life of a coach. "Everything depends on winning more or less and playing better or worse. I always try to improve, which is what I ask of my players as well. I want them to give it their all and to be good professionals like me." The capital side are now lagging some five points behind Barcelona after the Catalan giants mauled Deportivo La Coruna 4-0 on Saturday.

Canales: I'm not happy on the bench Precocious Real Madrid youngster Sergio Canales has admitted he is not too thrilled at his lack of first-team opportunities. However, the playmaker has also insisted that he will not depart the nine-time European champions in a bid to play more minutes on the pitch. The Spaniard has predictably struggled to force his way into the first-team picture alongside his more illustrious counterparts since his summer arrival from Racing Santander. Nevertheless, despite speculation linking Canales to a loan move to Italy, he is determined to stay on and catch the eye of manager Jose Mourinho. "I'm not happy, but I'm not going to leave Madrid, only fight and work hard to get more opportunities," he is quoted as telling AS. "Playing in Madrid is complicated and I knew it would not be easy. I came with enthusiasm and was aware that playing for a big team is very complicated, because there are great players and competition is high. So I have to try to exploit all my opportunities. "With the team and the coach I am very happy. I wish I had more minutes, but you have to work hard." Canales rose through the ranks at Racing before Real snapped him up at the start of the campaign.

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Few players will complete a more successful year than FC Barcelona's Gerard Piqué managed in 2010, as the Liga champions' centre-back consolidated his reputation in Spain's triumphant FIFA World Cup campaign. The 23-year-old told UEFA.com about the highlights of a career that has already encompassed so much. UEFA.com: You're so young yet have already won almost all there is to win in football. What drives you to win more? Gerard Piqué: The most important thing is desire. I enjoy what I do and I'm surrounded by fantastic team-mates and the best players in the world in the place I call home. There are still so many things left for me to do in football – I have never competed in, let alone won, a UEFA European Championship with Spain. UEFA.com: What did you learn from your time at Manchester United and why did you leave for the Premier League at such a young age? Piqué: That was a marvellous experience that helped me learn and improve year by year. I was very fortunate to be able to combine the values of English football with those I learned at La Masia. England helped in terms developing my abilities. I trained under Sir Alex Ferguson in what were fantastic years, though I admit it was very difficult to adapt to a new life after Barcelona. I went because I knew it would be an opportunity that would push me on my way. "United helped me learn how to compete but I always knew one day I wanted to return to Barça". UEFA.com: What do you think are the reasons behind Barcelona's success in producing young talent? Piqué: I believe that a defined style and continuity with the young players coming through the ranks is important. Believing in the work you are doing from the youth teams up to the senior side and always knowing what's at stake – that's important. The values Barcelona offer their young players have helped generate a specific style of play – I think that no other club in the world has this. UEFA.com: What are your first footballing memories? Piqué: I remember my grandfather, Amador Bernabéu, giving me my first ball. That stands out, as do the first tournaments I played in alongside team-mates like Cesc Fàbregas when we were involved with the Barcelona youth teams. I used to look up to [former Spain and Real Madrid CF defender] Fernando Hierro as a boy – he was such a great player and a fine leader. UEFA.com: You train every day with Xavi Hernández, Andrés Iniesta and Lionel Messi. Which of the three do you think will win the FIFA Ballon d'Or? Piqué: I would say Messi as he's the best player in the world but if I could divide the prize between the three of them I would. "As a footballer Messi has everything but Xavi and Iniesta are the best I have seen playing the game with the ball at their feet". UEFA.com: Watching Barcelona, at times it seems you could all play with your eyes closed. How do you generate that kind of confidence? Piqué: With work, discipline, determination and having a great coach like Josep Guardiola who urges us never to let our guard down. We approach every day as if we are in competition. In reality there is no great secret – hard work and having a coach who was educated in-house helps a lot. UEFA.com: Do you believe this Barcelona team are one of the best in history? Piqué: We're pretty good and we've had a couple of decent seasons. What you can't forget is that in the history of the game there have been some unbelievable teams so we have a way to go before reaching those levels. When the years begin to pass and we do a calculation of exactly what we've achieved then we can begin to draw comparisons. UEFA.com: What memories do you have of last summer's FIFA World Cup? Piqué: I have thousands of memories about the tournament – I had a chance to score against Switzerland, the doubts after we lost that game, Andrés Iniesta's goal in the final ... it was all unforgettable. UEFA.com: Do you think that 2010 will be seen as the best year of your career or is there better to come? Piqué: I really don't know. Every season new challenges arise, with different reasons to feel motivated. We still have so much left to do and I'm a young man. "I'm the type of person who wants to believe that the best is yet to come".

Messi set for Barcelona return Barcelona could welcome back Lionel Messi as they look to keep their Copa del Rey hopes alive against Athletic Bilbao. Messi missed Sunday`s 2-1 league win over Levante after being given extra time off by Pep Guardiola, but he returned to training and could be a timely reinforcement for the trip to San Mames, where Barca will be hoping to book their place in the quarter-finals. Barca face a tough test having been held to a goalless draw at home in the first leg, but they can take some cheer from Athletic`s 2-1 home defeat to Deportivo La Coruna at the weekend - a result which brought to an end the Basque club`s six-match winning streak at home. Nevertheless, Barca midfielder Sergio Busquets admits his side cannot afford to take Athletic lightly. "There`s no margin of error in this game," the Spain international said. "We are going to a ground where they live and breathe football and the fans will be behind their team for the whole 90 minutes. "I hope that Bilbao aren't as defensive as they were at the Nou Camp. "It's a key game for us to be able to continue playing every three days or so, which suits us. Last year, when we went out to Sevilla, the weeks seemed much longer. "We are used to playing every three or four days and it helps us maintain the dynamic of our season." The match pits the two most successful sides in Copa del Rey history against each other - Barca having 25 crowns to Athletic's 23 - and is also a repeat of the 2009 final which the Catalan side won 4-1. Whereas Barca have a fight on their hands to progress to the last eight, arch rivals Real Madrid have no such concerns as they chase a first cup success since 1993. Jose Mourinho`s men trounced Levante 8-0 in the first leg, with Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema both netting hat-tricks, and that makes Thursday's return meeting academic. The remaining six ties are all close however, with holders Sevilla looking in the strongest position following their 5-3 first leg win over Andalusian rivals Malaga at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan. However, Malaga have been busy bolstering their squad over the winter break, bringing in Ignacio Camacho, Sergio Asenjo, Enzo Maresca, Martin Demichelis and Julio Baptista, and coach Manuel Pellegrini could decide to give some of them their debuts in the second leg. Atletico Madrid, who lost to Sevilla in last year`s final, boast a 1-0 lead over Espanyol but the return match will be in Barcelona on Thursday, where Mauricio Pochettino`s men have won seven of eight league matches this season. In the other matches, local rivals Villarreal and Valencia meet at El Madrigal locked at 0-0, Almeria travel to the Balearic Islands holding a 4-3 lead over Real Mallorca, while Getafe beat Segunda Division leaders Real Betis 2-1 away in their first meeting. Cordoba, who along with Betis are the only remaining non-Primera Division teams, drew 1-1 at home with Deportivo La Coruna..

Privileged Mata relishing life at the top Published: Tuesday 4 January 2011, 12.11CET From FIFA World Cup joy to the UEFA European Under-21 Championship via the "privilege" of the UEFA Champions League, Valencia CF's Juan Mata looks back on 2010 and ahead to 2011. by Delfín Ramírez from Madrid Valencia CF's Juan Mata has many reasons for post-festive cheer. Speaking to UEFA.com, the 22-year-old recalls his FIFA World Cup joy with Spain, analyses the changes his club has undergone this season and looks forward to this summer's UEFA European Under-21 Championship. UEFA.com: Valencia are fourth in the Liga and have a UEFA Champions League round of 16 tie against FC Schalke 04 to look forward to. How do you evaluate the season to date? Juan Mata: We would like to be higher up in the league, but there is a long way to go and we've made it to the Champions League places. Meanwhile, in Europe we're eagerly anticipating our tie in the next round. UEFA.com: How do you feel about playing in the last 16 of European football's premier club competition? Mata: At this stage of the tournament every team is in the top bracket, so we know what to expect. On an economic front, it's good news for the club, while in sporting terms the team really needed to return to the highest level after a few years away. We want to go as far as possible in this magnificent tournament. UEFA.com: What makes the Champions League so special? How do you feel when you play at stadiums like Old Trafford and Ibrox? Mata: For a player who plays in European competition, this is the highest level there is – you have the opportunity to play against historic teams from the best leagues. It's a real privilege to play in stadiums like those mentioned. UEFA.com: How have Valencia coped with the losses of David Villa and David Silva, as well as the more experienced Carlos Marchena and Rubén Baraja? Mata: Despite those losses we all knew at the beginning of the season that our objective remained the same: to qualify for the Champions League. There were some worrying moments in pre-season which made us wonder how we might start the campaign, especially with the loss of so many talented players. But, with the coach we have [unai Emery] and the good atmosphere in the dressing room, we have shown we are competitive and willing to fight. UEFA.com: The UEFA European Under-21 Championship takes place in Denmark this summer. How will Spain prepare for the tournament and what are the expectations? Mata: Our objective was to get there and that wasn't at all easy – right until the end there was uncertainty. In made it, though, and now we're desperate to realise the beautiful dream of making it to the Olympic Games. UEFA.com: Tell us about the World Cup? Mata: I was living through the biggest occasion a footballer can hope to enjoy. It got even better as we passed through each round and finally got to the final. It was a historic moment for the country and I was lucky enough to be directly involved. You can imagine the emotions when we won: so much happiness and pride. UEFA.com: Now attention turns to qualifying for UEFA EURO 2012. Is it possible to be more relaxed in these games? Mata: When you know you're World and European champions, you're expected to win and play in the style that has become synonymous with Spain in recent years. The blips we suffered in recent friendlies against Argentina and Portugal are no cause for alarm: you can be sure we'll be a different proposition in the competitive games. UEFA.com: Finally, what will you take with you from 2010 and what are you looking forward to this year? Mata: Without doubt my best memory is that of going to, and winning, the World Cup. In 2011, as at the beginning of every year, I only ask the same thing: that I can play injury-free. After that I would like to achieve my goal of helping Valencia qualify for the Champions League, to do well at the U21 finals and to keep representing the senior side.

As Diarra doesnt deserve his thread i am posting this here United consider £14million Diarra bid Manchester United are considering making a £14million offer for Real Madrid midfielder Lassana Diarra. According to the Guardian, Real boss Jose Mourinho is still keen on retaining the former Arsenal, Chelsea and Portsmouth player but Diarra is believed to be keen on a move to Old Trafford. A reason behind the player's desire to move has been the lack of first team football handed to him since the arrival of Sami Khedira from Stuttgart last summer. Compounding the frustration, it is understood from reports in Spain that Diarra's request for a new contract has also been met with mixed reactions from club officials. As a result, the Guardian claims Real would almost certainly accept £14million, which is £3million more than was originally reported as United's valuation of the France international, for the 25-year-old.

Mourinho pleased by Real attitude Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho was left satisfied by the attitude of his players despite losing 2-0 at Levante. Mourinho fielded a weakened side for Thursday's Copa del Rey clash with Levante - the match was virtually won before kick-off courtesy of Madrid's 8-0 first leg result. "It's difficult for players to pay the necessary attention to a game like this. We knew we had reached the next round before kick-off. I cannot criticise them because they had a positive attitude," Mourinho was quoted on the club's official website as saying. "Many men who haven't enjoyed minutes of playing time in the past, or have been injured, took the pitch today. Gago, Garay and Mateos were starters for the first time this season. Mateos and Canales had physical problems at the end of the match and we had no strikers after Benzema came off." Mourinho was especially pleased to see Brazilian playmaker Kaka up and running once again. "What's important is that Kaka doesn't feel any pain on his knee or groin when he plays. He is constantly improving. The crowd will enjoy watching him play at the Bernabeu," he said. Levante scored through Xisco and Sergio for the 2-0 win, but it will be Real who progress to the quarterfinals where they face rivals Atletico Madrid.

Lampard desperate for "Holy Grail" Frank Lampard admits the Champions League has become the "Holy Grail" for both himself and Chelsea. The Blues came within one penalty kick of ending their quest two and a half years ago when they were beaten by Manchester United in the final in Moscow. England midfielder Lampard, whose equaliser that night ensured a shootout, has also been on the losing side in four semi-finals in the past seven years. And despite having won three Premier League titles, three FA Cups and two League Cups over the same period, the 32-year-old insists his medal collection will not be complete until he adds a Champions League gold. "I have won three leagues and quite a lot of the group have won one or more," Lampard told Chelsea TV's Icons Christmas special. "But we have been so close to the Champions League, it does become a bit of a Holy Grail and I think the fans feel that. "I would never ever go into a season without the first thing on my mind being the Premier League. "To win domestically is the biggest thing for me but I don't want to finish my career with five Champions League semi-finals and a final but with no medal. "It is huge but it is such a difficult competition to win. "Every year, you play group games before Christmas and you start again in February and you might have injuries or you might be losing form. "We played Inter Milan last year at a time when we were down, so there are so many little bits that have to come together for you to win it and that is what we are waiting for, that final little bit that we have missed." Lampard is convinced Chelsea would have gone on to lift the Champions League last season had they overcome eventual winners Inter in the last 16. He said: "Look at us in the league last year. We were on a run at the end, beating teams by six or seven goals and if we could have translated that into the Champions League last year, if we had got through those Inter Milan game and gone on and played the way we were playing at the end of the season, I think we would have won the Champions League. "I really believe that because we were playing so well, so it is about form and fitness. You need your big players. "You can't win the Champions League without your big boys, simple as that, no team can." Lampard missed all of Chelsea's group games this season through injury but is determined to make up for lost time when the knockout stage begins next month. And, unlike last year, the Blues have been handed the easiest possible draw in FC Copenhagen. Lampard said: "When you get to the last 16, you feel the eyes of the world are watching it. "It is what all the kids like, it is the ultimate club competition. "I have a goal in a losing final and that is nice in a small way for me but that drives you on more to want to be part of a winning final."

Blackburn 3-1 Liverpool Liverpool slumped to yet another shocking loss at Blackburn and one that is likely to hasten Roy Hodgson's exit. Even before Saturday's injury-time winner against Bolton the suggestion was club owners New England Sports Ventures were actively looking for a replacement. On this performance they will probably have to speed up that search as two goals from Benjani Mwaruwari, who had not started since November 6 and scored once in 12 previous appearances, and one from Martin Olsson condemned the Reds to a ninth Barclays Premier League defeat of the season, despite Steven Gerrard's late consolation. The now almost-obligatory chants for club legend Kenny Dalglish surfaced in the second half and at one point it seemed all four sides of Ewood Park were singing "You're getting sacked in the morning" to Hodgson. Liverpool had lost just one of their previous 24 league meetings against Blackburn but even that was not enough encouragement for the travelling fans. They voted with their feet, as they had done against Bolton on Saturday when Anfield was about 8,000 below capacity, and for the first time failed to fill the Darwen End at Ewood Park. Pity the poor souls who made the short journey east as they had to endure a result more demoralising than the 1-0 defeat at home to Wolves last week. Despite coming up against one of the most lightweight midfields in the Premier League - Olsson, David Dunn, Morten Gamst Pedersen and Junior Hoilett - Liverpool failed to impose themselves on the game. Fernando Torres, who was on the end of some tough tackling but nothing over the top, flashed an early header wide but spent most of the game complaining to referee Andre Marriner. Rovers looked far more threatening and after Dunn had volleyed over from the edge of the penalty area and Mame Biram Diouf had bundled an eight-yard shot straight at Jose Reina they found their shooting boots. Defender Ryan Nelsen was given plenty of time in the centre circle to play the ball out to Diouf on the left and when he knocked it on Olsson raced past the static Glen Johnson to fire past Reina in the 32nd minute. Five minutes later it was Sotirios Kyrgiakos' turn to be slow to react as Benjani controlled Pedersen's cross on his chest and turned to lash a ferocious volley past Reina. By contrast the most work Rovers' inexperienced goalkeeper Mark Bunn, deputising for the injured Paul Robinson, had to do was fingertip Joe Cole's angled shot wide of the far post. The Liverpool manager's misery was complete when in the 57th minute Hoilett went around Martin Skrtel and Johnson as if they were not there and from the byline crossed for Benjani to sidefoot home his second of the night. In almost an exact replay of Benjani's second goal Diouf ran into the left of the area and crossed into the six-yard box but Hoilett could not get his outstretched foot on the ball. Gerrard, on his 550th Liverpool appearance, fired in an 80th-minute consolation when Torres' shot was blocked but that barely raised a cheer from the travelling support. When the captain ballooned over a penalty five minutes later, after being fouled by Salgado, any hopes of an Istanbul-style fightback were dashed. But even an occurrence such as that would have done nothing to mask the malaise the club are currently in. Hodgson, as both Fulham and Liverpool manager, has now won just two away league games since the start of the 2009/10 season. That has contributed significantly to his problems but a failure to win over fans and impose a suitably offensive style of play have also been a factor. This result and the embarrassing sound of Rovers fans singing "Can we play you every week" and "Are you Burnley in disguise" will not have gone unnoticed in the Boston headquarters of NESV. The next move is surely theirs and it is one Hodgson will be dreading.

Arsenal 0-0 Manchester City Arsenal twice hit the woodwork as somehow title rivals Manchester City left Emirates Stadium with a point. Robin van Persie and Cesc Fabregas both saw their first-half shots come back of the base of the same post. City then had goalkeeper Joe Hart to thank after he produced a wonderful fingertip save to deny Van Persie on the hour as Arsenal had to be content with only a point. The teams each finished with 10 men after full-backs Pablo Zabaleta and Bacary Sagna were shown straight red cards by referee Mike Jones for a needless clash by the touchline. Arsenal almost snatched an early lead when Samir Nasri played Jack Wilshere into the left side of the penalty area - but his cut-back was just too far ahead of Van Persie, with Theo Walcott's cross from the goalline then hacked clear. City - expected to shortly complete the £27million signing of striker Edin Dzeko from Wolfsburg - broke quickly down the right and James Milner drilled a low shot across the area. Van Persie again went within inches of putting Arsenal ahead when, after nine minutes, the Dutchman created space for a shot from the edge of the City box - and promptly drilled the ball against the base of Hart's right-hand post. After such a frantic start, it was no surprise to see the tempo of the match drop. Gareth Barry was cautioned after 21 minutes when he clattered into Arsenal defender Bacary Sagna as the right-back looked to break clear. At the other end, a deep free-kick found its way through to Carlos Tevez at the back post, but Alex Song was able to divert the loose ball behind. After 27 minutes, Arsenal again hit the woodwork after a quick break through Nasri and Fabregas down the left, with the Arsenal skipper cutting back inside to wrongfoot Heart only for his shot to bounce off the base of the same post as Van Persie's did. From the rebound, Walcott smashed an angled drive against the other upright, but the offside flag was already raised. There was a warning for Arsenal when City broke quickly down the right and Tevez drilled the ball just over from 20 yards. Arsenal were calling for a penalty when Walcott's cross hit Vincent Kompany's trailing arm, but the referee instead gave a only a corner. The Gunners continued to press as half-time approached, yet were thwarted by some brave last-gasp defending Arsenal soon were back on the offensive following the restart. Walcott was almost released, but Wilshere's pass ran through to Hart. On the hour, City's England number one made a fantastic save to send a goal-bound 25-yard drive from Van Persie over the crossbar. City boss Roberto Mancini then made a change, replacing the ineffective Jo with England winger Adam Johnson and the visitors looked much more balanced. As the match entered the final 22 minutes, Walcott was replaced by Arshavin. Gunners boss Arsene Wenger then sent on Nicklas Bendtner, for Wilshere, with 10 minutes left, looking to give Arsenal more presence in attack. Both teams finished the match with 10 men after full-backs Zabaleta and Sagna were shown straight red cards after pushing their heads together. Despite four minutes of stoppage time, the breakthrough would not come and City held on for a point which keeps them second, but sees leaders Manchester United the night's big winners.

"Fabiano will consider Inter Milan" Sevilla hotshot Luis Fabiano will welcome a move to Inter Milan in January after falling behind the pecking order in the club. The Brazilian sharpshooter has found himself overtaken by strikers Frederic Kanoute and Alvaro Negredo ever since the appointment of Gregorio Manzano as Sevilla manager. Fabiano's agent Jose Fuentes has now revealed that new Inter chief Leonardo is a firm admirer of his client's talents and should the European champions come calling with a offer, the former would evaluate the situation despite having committed himself to the Andalusian outfit earlier in the season. "Yes, it's true. Leonardo has always followed Fabiano in recent years, and when he was the coach of Milan," Fuentes told Ilsussidiario.net. "At the moment we have had no contact from Inter's officials. He [Fabiano] has a contract with Sevilla, but if a concrete offer came from Italy, Spain or England, we would be willing to evaluate it if it's a big club," the agent stated. Fabiano, who was linked with a move to Manchester United and Spurs during the transfer window in the summer, pledged his future with Sevilla after no moves were forthcoming.

Arsenal vs Man City Player Ratings We rate the players in the Premier League game between Arsenal and Manchester City at the Emirates which ended 0-0. Arsenal Lukasz Fabianski - 5 Had no worries in goal at all. Laurent Koscielny - 6 Probably one of the most under-worked players on the pitch, along with Johan Djourou. Kept the high balls out. Johan Djourou - 6.5 Stuck to Tevez like a limpet and made sure the striker was kept on his toes at all times. Not his busiest night either. Gaël Clichy - 7 The Frenchman put in one of his better defensive displays of the season. Not that he had much to do, but did press play the likes of James Milner and later Adam Johnson very well. Bacary Sagna - 7.5 Linked up well with Walcott and put in some decent crosses. Sent off after a silly altercation with Zabaleta. Alex Song - 7 Did what Yaya Toure did for City i.e. some great runs right through the heart of the opposition - but just could not land the killer blow. Solid in defence. Jack Wilshere (off 82') - 5 Played very well actually, but was guilty of missing some of the best Arsenal chances - once when he should have squared the ball to van Persie and second when he scuffed his shot right in front of goal. Samir Nasri - 5 Not as heavily involved in the game as he is when playing through the centre. Had to contend with waves of blue shirts every time he got the ball and just couldn't find his way through. Theo Walcott (off 69') - 5.5 Got into some good areas on the right, but failed to carve any clear opportunities for himself - largely because of some good defending by Pablo Zabaleta. Cesc Fábregas - 7.5 Started off with trademark panache in midfield - pulling the strings with ease and making it seem as if Arsenal would simply wipe the floor with City. His effectiveness dwindled as City found their defensive feet. Robin Van Persie - 8 Probably enjoyed one of his best game for the Gunners this season. Was involved in almost every potent Arsenal attack and could have had a couple had it not been for Joe Hart and the upright. Subs Andrei Arshavin (on 69') - 4 Poor. Offered far less than Walcott did. Nicklas Bendtner (on 82') - n.a Manchester City Joe Hart - 7.5 Kept his side in the game with some assured keeping. One save off a van Persie pile-driver was particularly eye-catching. Vincent Kompany - 7 Another steady performance by one of City's best players this season. Broke up the intricate Arsenal play time and again, frustrating the Gunners no end. Kolo Touré - 7.5 Was good with balls in the box, sliding in to stop them finding Arsenal players and picking out the tricky Gunners' runs almost every single time. Pablo Zabaleta - 7 Had had a great game until a very strange sending-off. Nonetheless, he controlled Walcott for large parts of the game - making sure the winger did not get too many chances to get his crosses in. Micah Richards - 7 Was the most pro-active of the City defenders, closing down any Arsenal player in his zone - forcing them to go back. Made some powerful runs down the flanks as well. Nigel De Jong - 6.5 Looked like he was caught in a tornado early on, such was the pace of Arsenal's passing. But creditably, he settled down very well and did not allow Arsenal to dominate the midfield exchanges like they had done early in the match. Gareth Barry - 7.5 Put in a good, hard defensive shift - doing exactly what was asked of him by Roberto Mancini. Yaya Touré - 7 The most dangerous City player on the pitch. Unlike the rest of his side, was not afraid to run at Arsenal and really stretch the defenders. A couple of lung-busting runs could really have hurt the Gunners. James Milner - 5 Good defensive work, almost nothing going forward. Carlos Tévez (off 90')- 7 Was isolated up front most of the game and tried his level best to drop back in order to win the ball. Unfortunately for the Argentinean, he rarely had any teammate ahead of him to pass it to. Jô (off 65') - 2 Completely ineffective. Subs Adam Johnson (on 65') - 5 Didn't see much of the ball Jerome Boateng (on 90') - n.a

Mancini denies negative approach Roberto Mancini denied Manchester City were negative against Barclays Premier League title rivals Arsenal. Second-placed City - who are expected to shortly complete the £27m signing of striker Edin Dzeko from Wolfsburg - failed to muster a single shot on target in the goalless draw, and clearly missed injured frontline duo David Silva and Mario Balotelli. Arsenal remain in third place, two points behind City, with a match in hand, and four adrift of leaders Manchester United, who have played a match less. The Gunners twice hit the woodwork in the first half through Robin van Persie and Cesc Fabregas, with England keeper Joe Hart then saving superbly from the Dutchman's 25-yard drive on the hour. Both sides finished with 10 men after full-backs Pablo Zabaleta and Bacary Sagna were shown straight red cards by referee Mike Jones for a needless clash on the far touchline. City drew plenty of criticism both from the television pundits for tonight's live match and also the Emirates Stadium faithful. Mancini, though, was not concerned by the chants of 'boring, boring City'. "It is not important for me," the Italian said. "If one team plays well, it can happen that you must defend. "I prefer boo in the end and to go home with one point than with three goals in our net. "When you play here against Arsenal, it could be that Arsenal play better than you and you might defend, and this is football. "Not all the teams can play like Arsenal. "I think also that Arsenal won some games that they didn't deserve to win, maybe. "We were lucky in the first 25 minutes when Arsenal have four or five chances to score but after, I think we defended very well. "I think defensively we played well, offensively so-so but after four games in 10 days, this can be." Mancini continued: "Arsenal is a good team, they play football very well. "It's the same when you play against Barcelona, you play in Barca, you must defend very well if you don't want to lose the game. "I think that if we had Silva, Balotelli probably it might have been a different game." Mancini believed referee Jones could have shown restraint rather than go straight for his red cards. "At the end of the game the players are tired and ref must understand that. Two Yellow cards were enough, a red card is so much," the City boss said. United are now very much in the driving seat, but Mancini feels the title race is far from over. He said: "We are in a good position, like Arsenal and Manchester United. The season is very long. "Also, although Chelsea and Tottenham both lost tonight, I think they can still arrive on the top." Arsenal beat Chelsea here on December 27, and Arsene Wenger insists his team remain very much in the hunt for the championship. "We had the performance, but not the result," he said. "However, I take a lot of encouragement even if mathematically we are all frustrated and the players are disappointed. "There is no way we should lose courage or belief in our team. "We should come out with more belief in our quality and be more resolute because we have shown we have what it takes to compete in the championship." Wenger continued: "The regret I had was that we didn't take our early chances because an early goal would have changed the game. "They came for a 0-0 and they got what they wanted. We played for long periods against 10 men, even Carlos Tevez, I never seen him so deep. "But I wasn't surprised, they came here last year set up to play for a 0-0." Wenger, though, refused to berate City's supposed negative attitude. "We always try to win our games always. Maybe it was their way to try to win, to defend deep and catch us on the break," he said. "We have to respect that and sort out the problems we face. Even if a team defends deep we have to find a way to score." On the sendings off, Wenger said: "I hoped it would be two yellow because the game was not full of hate. Both teams respected each other. You could only do two reds or two yellows and he chose red."

Leonardo gets Inter back in the hunt Inter Milan manager Leonardo has set his sights on retaining the Scudetto following a dream debut against Napoli. Leonardo got his Inter career off to a credible start with a 3-1 win over a combative Napoli side at the San Siro on Thursday night. Inter are now 13 points behind league leaders and city rivals AC Milan, but have restored title belief under new manager Leonardo following a bad spell under ex-coach Rafa Benitez. "It will not be easy, but possible," Leonardo was quoted on the club's official wesbite as saying. "We need to think game by game, taking a step at a time. "The team is there and has a soul. "This team has a heart too strong, there is only one center, one priority." Thiago Motta was the hero for the home side with the first and the last goals in the 3-1 win. He put Inter ahead after three minutes, before Michele Pazienza deservedly levelled for Napoli. Esteban Cambiasso restored Inter's first half lead before Motta's second sealed the win.

Inter don't want Kaka, Ronaldinho Inter Milan's technical director Marco Branca has distanced the club from moves for Kaka and Ronaldinho. Reports have suggested that the reigning Serie A champions are keen to land the Brazilian duo this month. New Inter boss Leonardo has worked with both men before at cross-city rivals AC Milan and was believed to be looking to snap up his fellow countrymen. However, Branca insists there is nothing in the speculation and is adamant neither player will be turning out for the Nerazzurri any time soon. "Kaka? We have never given any consideration to such an eventuality," he said. "Ronaldinho? When I read this in the morning I thought it was more a media necessity to fill space, rather than serious news. "If we never thought about Kaka, then we certainly did not consider Ronaldinho." Branca claims Inter are unlikely to enter the transfer market again until the summer, but concedes the club are among those keeping a close eye on Udinese's Chilean forward Alexis Sanchez. "Sanchez? I have a 23-year relationship with Udinese and we have never had any problems, but I said before our market will go forward in June," he added. "Inter are following him, but there are also other clubs. For now we are OK as we are."

Inter don't want Kaka, Ronaldinho Inter Milan's technical director Marco Branca has distanced the club from moves for Kaka and Ronaldinho. Reports have suggested that the reigning Serie A champions are keen to land the Brazilian duo this month. New Inter boss Leonardo has worked with both men before at cross-city rivals AC Milan and was believed to be looking to snap up his fellow countrymen. However, Branca insists there is nothing in the speculation and is adamant neither player will be turning out for the Nerazzurri any time soon. "Kaka? We have never given any consideration to such an eventuality," he said. "Ronaldinho? When I read this in the morning I thought it was more a media necessity to fill space, rather than serious news. "If we never thought about Kaka, then we certainly did not consider Ronaldinho." Branca claims Inter are unlikely to enter the transfer market again until the summer, but concedes the club are among those keeping a close eye on Udinese's Chilean forward Alexis Sanchez. "Sanchez? I have a 23-year relationship with Udinese and we have never had any problems, but I said before our market will go forward in June," he added. "Inter are following him, but there are also other clubs. For now we are OK as we are."

City to contest Zabaleta red card Manchester City look set to appeal against the red card Pablo Zabaleta was issued during Wednesday's goalless draw with Arsenal. Zabaleta and Bacary Sagna were both dismissed in the last minute of the Emirates Stadium encounter after the pair clashed by the touchline. The Argentina star looked unfortunate at the time and TV replays appeared to back up that view. So, facing a three-match ban that would rule him out of matches against Leicester, Wolves and Aston Villa, it seems certain City will appeal ahead of the 5pm deadline. "We are a little bit disappointed with that decision," said assistant manager Brian Kidd. "We are looking at it and will make a decision about whether to appeal before the deadline. It was very harsh." Kidd also defended manager Roberto Mancini over the tactics City employed last night, claiming the Blues had been forced onto the defensive rather than choosing to play that way. "I realise this Italian tactics thing gets brought up because the boss is Italian, but I don't understand it," he said. "We came back from the Emirates last night with a really good point. "Arsenal were terrific for the first 25 minutes but we didn't capitulate when it would have been quite easy to go under." Kidd could offer no update on the pursuit of Edin Dzeko from Wolfsburg, but it appears only a matter of time before the Bosnian is officially unveiled as a City player. With a fee and personal terms agreed, it is thought the giant striker underwent a medical yesterday. Although he must leave the country pending a work permit being granted, given the player's status as a regular international and one of the most sought-after strikers in Europe, that is regarded as automatic. He would then be clear to complete a deal worth an estimated £27million.

Inter to offer Eto'o for Tevez Inter Milan are set for an audacious bid - to offer Samuel Eto'o for Manchester City striker Carlos Tevez. New Inter manager Leonardo wants his very own strike force at the San Siro and has earmarked the City hitman as his number one target. The Argentinean has recently made an about-turn in regards to his future at Eastlands after demanding a move out due to unhappiness at the club and family concerns. But that has not dampened Leonardo's hopes of landing the 26-year-old and is ready to dangle Eto'o at the face of the cash-rich Citizens. Meanwhile, City are on the brink of signing Wolfsburg striker Edin Dzeko after the Bosnian completed his medical on Thursday. His arrival could loosen the club's grip on Tevez.

Inter look to Napoli for the future Inter Milan chief Ernesto Paolillio has confirmed interest in Napoli duo Edinson Cavani and Marek Hamsik. The Napoli pair have helped fire the club into second in the Serie A table - 10 points ahead of Inter - and there is growing speculation the champions could launch a bid in the January transfer window. Paolillo told Radio Crc: "Cavani and Hamsik are two very good players and certainly I'd like to see them play for Inter, as indeed I think all clubs would love to have them on their roster. "We have made other choices of corporate strategy and this is why we haven't invested on them but now it is appropriate to look to the future." On Thursday night, new Inter manager Leonardo will get a first hand look at the players in question when Napoli travel to the San Siro. Julio Cesar is out with a thigh injury and is replaced by Luca Castellazzi, Wesley Sneijder is a long-term absentee while Samuel Eto'o is banned.

Inter Milan 3-1 Napoli Leonardo celebrated a winning start as coach of Inter Milan with a 3-1 win against Napoli at the San Siro. Thiago Motta was the hero for the home side with the first and the last goal in a pulsating game. He put Inter ahead after three minutes, but Michele Pazienza deservedly levelled for an impressive Napoli in the 25th minute. Esteban Cambiasso restored Inter's lead in the 37th minute before Motta's second sealed the win and allowed Inter to start eating into their huge deficit on league leaders AC Milan. With two games in hand, they are now 13 points behind their city rivals, but they appear to be filled with renewed belief and enthusiasm under their new coach. Leonardo could hardly have wished for a better start as Motta gave the Nerazzurri the lead in the third minute. The player who was rarely able to help Leonardo's predecessor Rafael Benitez due to injury was involved twice in the goal, touching a pass from Goran Pandev to Dejan Stankovic, who returned the favour and lifted the ball up for the Brazilian to volley in from the edge of the penalty area. Napoli responded immediately and had a goal disallowed in the seventh minute when Andrea Dossena drifted offside before volleying a free-kick towards the far corner, where Edinson Cavani's header to make sure the ball crossed the line made no difference as play had already been halted. The visitors did draw level in the 25th minute as Pazienza scored his first goal of the season. He ran into the six-yard box to meet a corner from the left with his head and beat keeper Luca Castellazzi, who was a bit slow to react. Napoli could have gone ahead in the 33rd minute, but Christian Maggio shot across the face of goal. Two minutes later, Diego Milito showed that his luck does not appear to have changed under a new coach as he lifted his shot over the crossbar from six yards out with only Morgan de Sanctis to beat. Cambiasso showed him how it is done two minutes later as he restored Inter's lead with a committed header from Maicon's cross, beating Paolo Cannavaro to the ball at the near post and leaving De Sanctis no chance. Marek Hamsik had the first chance of the second half as he met Cavani's cross at the near post, but he shot just wide. Motta then gave Inter a two-goal cushion with his second goal of the game in the 55th minute. He showed excellent precision to head Pandev's corner into the top left-hand corner of the goal from 10 yards out. Napoli tried to respond again, but they lacked the belief that they had shown previously and Castellazzi was rarely threatened as the Nerazzurri held on to all three points, giving Leonardo a perfect debut as Inter's new coach.