Van Gaal desperately seeking Manchester United balance

Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal admits he is still trying to strike the right balance between his horde of creative talents and a more solid back-line.

The Red Devils claimed a last-gasp draw away to West Brom on Monday night, and while the Dutch coach was happy with his side’s performance he was dismayed that they failed to win the game.

But while he is ready to add more physicality and strength to his line-up, he is not going to sacrifice his team’s flair – even with a clash with Chelsea on the horizon.

“We have to look for physical balance and maybe that is our problem,” Van Gaal told reporters. “I am always looking for creative players and in England you need physical players as well, maybe [Marouane] Fellaini brings that.”

Tuesday, October 21, 2014 14:00

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Cow backsides declared safe in Liverpool after Balotelli horror show

Another week, another struggle for Mario Balotelli. The Italian has only managed one goal for the Reds since his summer move from Milan and even that was against lowly Ludogorets.

And things got no better at Loftus Road as the 24-year-old skied a shot over an unguarded net from just 10 yards out. Things can only get better...

Monday, October 20, 2014 12:19

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Ebola attacks African Cup of Nations

Morocco asked to postpone the African Cup of Nations event because of the Ebola crisis.

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'Joke' to compare Chelsea to Invincibles - Fabregas

Cesc Fabregas laughed off suggestions that Chelsea could replicate Arsenal's legendary 2003-04 Invincible side.

The former Gunner, now a key part of Jose Mourinho's Chelsea team and a goalscorer in their 2-1 win at Crystal Palace described the comparison as a 'joke'.

With the same round Kun Aguero became Manchester City's record Premier League after scoring 4 goals on Tottenham.

Sunday, October 19, 2014 17:17

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Mourinho happy to persist with 'disgraceful' handshakes

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho reacted sarcastically to accusations from Aston Villa assistant manager Roy Keane that his early handshakes were a 'disgrace'.

Mourinho insists he won't change his ways despite the angry response from Keane, saying: "First of all I want to say I appreciate the comments," Mourinho told reporters.

"I think they are both great examples of polite and well educated people, and because I’m a humble guy who tries to learn every day and with every experience, I appreciate the comments."

Sunday, October 19, 2014 17:27

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‘Why always me?’ – Thiago injured again

Bayern Munich midfielder Thiago Alcantara faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines after picking up a knee ligament injury in training, with the Spaniard to undergo surgery to repair the tear.

The former Barcelona man has barely featured for the Bundesliga champions since swapping Camp Nou for the Allianz Arena, with his latest setback making a return to action this season unlikely.

Thiago was understandably distraught at the news: “What can I say?” he told the club's official website. “Of course, I am profoundly disappointed and desperate at the moment.

“Why always me? But I will not give up. I will fight again. I'm going to get close again. And I will celebrate my comeback at Bayern.”

Thursday, October 16, 2014 11:20

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Hero O'Shea the toast of world's elite

In a week of international football which boasted drama, goals and even a brawl, John O’Shea’s stoppage-time leveller against Germany in his 100th appearance for the Republic of Ireland was a fitting finale.

The Sunderland centre-back, having defended resolutely for much of the encounter in Gelsenkirchen, expertly guided the ball beyond Manuel Neuer to salvage a 1-1 draw and heap more misery on the World Cup winners.

O’Shea was not the only player to enjoy a stellar Tuesday, with Cristiano Ronaldo bagging a last-minute winner against Denmark, Lionel Messi striking twice in Hong Kong and Neymar claiming four (yes, four) goals against Japan.

Ronaldo also celebrated reaching a 100 million fans on facebook.

Wednesday, October 15, 2014 12:30

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