Keshi Dismisses Match Fixing Claims, Says We Are Footballers | INFORMATION NIGERIA

Keshi Dismisses Match Fixing Claims, Says We Are Footballers

Posted by: Omaku Cephas on May 29, 2014

Scotland manager Gordon Stratchan initiated the friendly undertone to Wednesdays two-all draw with Nigeria, by presenting a brandy with the phrase Famous Keshi encrusted on it to his counterpart Stephen Keshi at the Cottage, moments before kick-off. Keshi, 52, was particularly startled at the former Celtic boss gesture, after receiving the gift and wished he could reciprocate it immediately. This is true friendship in football and we all, especially Nigerians must start to imbibe this type of gesture, Keshi said.

A Nigerian Supporter Echoes Coach Stephen Keshis Intuitions Prior to Kick-Off at Craven Cottage.

He added: Imagine a fellow coach branding my name in a drink. It has never happened in my entire life, please help me thank him. Uche Nwofors late strike earned the African champions the deserved draw after Charlie Mulgrew and an Azubuike Egwuekwe own-goal had gifted the Tartan Army the lead, in-between Michael Uchebos first-half strike. Keshi later took his time to dismiss match-fixing claims, alleged prior to kick-off of the World Cup warm-up. The Daily Telegraph reported a day to the friendly that the National Crime Agency (NCA) were investigating the second meeting between both nations. Keshi said after the draw: We did [talk about it] because its something ridiculous, something that we dont know where its coming from. Were not gamblers, we are football players. I dont even know where that is coming from, we dont know what happened, match-fixing or no match-fixing. This is the first time Ive been a coach or been a player and the first time Im hearing this, match-fixing. I dont think it had anything to do with our build-up or the game. Nigeria departs for their World Cup training camp in Houston, Texas on Thursday. They will play further friendly internationals against Greece and the United States before getting down to business in Brazil. The Eagles will play Iran, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Argentina in Group F of next months tournament.

Sagna confirms Arsenal depature | INFORMATION NIGERIA

Sagna confirms Arsenal depature

Posted by: @femi4arsenal on May 29, 2014

Sagna

France defender Bacary Sagna looks set to join Manchester City after confirming he will leave Arsenal this summer.

“It’s no longer a secret, I will leave Arsenal for sure. They tried to make an effort, but the discussions have not gone in the direction I wished it. There are a lot of calls, a lot of speculation. Frankly, it gives headaches. I’ll sort it all out before the start of the World Cup.

– Arsenal defender Bacary Sagna speaking to LEquipe{ITV}

Minala is 17 Not 42, Italian Football Body Confirms | INFORMATION NIGERIA

Minala is 17 Not 42, Italian Football Body Confirms

Posted by: Omaku Cephas on May 29, 2014

An official Italian Football Association (FIGC) investigation, has ruled that Lazios midfielder Joseph Minala did not lie about his age.

Minalas real age became a subject of debate in February, after an African football website stated that the Cameroonian was 42 instead of the 17 he claims to be.

The accusation prompted the FIGC to initiate an official investigation, which saw him questioned by the leagues federal prosecutor.

Joseph Minalas Age Became a Subject of Debate After An African Website Questioned His True Age.

The investigation did not show any need for disciplinary action, read an FIGC statement.

Minala joined Lazio last summer and played for them in the Viareggio Cup youth tournament in February.

Ronaldo develops Thigh problem | INFORMATION NIGERIA

Ronaldo develops Thigh problem

Posted by: @femi4arsenal on May 29, 2014

Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo has been hit by a thigh problem as Portugal continue their preparations for this summers World Cup in Brazil.

The 29-year-old overcame a hamstring complaint to play in Real Madrids Champions League final victory over Atletico Madrid, but linked up with his international team-mates on Thursday carrying a fresh injury.

The forward was one of five players named on Portugals official website that were forced to remain on the sidelines four of whom were nursing thigh injuries.

A brief statement said Ronaldo was suffering from myalgia (pain) in the posterior region of his left thigh and underwent specific rehabilitation work at the team hotel.

He was joined there by Raul Meireles, Hugo Almeida, Rubon Amorim and Joao Moutinho, as Portugal prepare for their latest pre-World Cup friendly against Greece on Saturday.

None of these players are believed to be serious doubts for the tournament, though there will be concerns over Ronaldo given the Seleccaos reliance on the forward during qualification.

The reigning Ballon dOr winner scored a hat-trick in the second-leg of their World Cup play-off with Sweden to almost single-handedly fire Paulo Bentos men to Brazil.

Portugal will need him at his brilliant best if they are to advance from a tough group containing Germany, USA and Ghana.

Their World Cup campaign kicks off with a clash against Germany on June 16.{GOAL}

Paul Scholes blasts Yaya Toure birthday rant as embarrassing | INFORMATION NIGERIA

Paul Scholes blasts Yaya Toure birthday rant as embarrassing

Posted by: @femi4arsenal on May 29, 2014

Toure

Former Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes has hit out at Yaya Toure over his outburst regarding the perceived sleight from Manchester City on his 31st birthday.

Toure appears to be angling for a move away from the Etihad Stadium after his agent revealed earlier this month that the Ivorian was unhappy with the lack of gratitude shown to him by Manchester City bigwigs on his birthday.

The powerhouse also fuelled speculation about his future by admitting that it would be an honour to play for Paris Saint-Germain, having promised tospeak out about his future after the World Cup this summer.

Scholes, who hung up his boots at Manchester United last year, says the Manchester City man is likely to regret the entire episode in the near future.

As for Yaya Toure sulking because Manchester City didn’t mark his birthday with sufficient respect, it was comical, he wrote in his Paddy Power blog.

Quite embarrassing, really. I can’t remember Manchester United players acting like this. We still came back for pre-season. Poor Yaya, maybe the biglad just needs a cuddle.

Toure has been an inspiration at Manchester City since joining from Barcelona in 2010, helping the club win the Premier League twice, along with the FA Cup and the League Cup.

Along with his PSG admission, he also said he would like a move back to the Nou Camp before he retires. “Yes, I have said I would like to finish my career atBarcelona, Toure told reporters. You never know because football moves quickly, you never know.” Meanwhile Scholes had some wise words for England ahead of the World Cup telling them they should play like Manchester Uniteds fiercest rivals, Liverpool.

The Reds enjoyed a successful campaign but fell just short of their first Premier League title, and Scholes says the Three Lions should start their first match with a core of players from Anfield.

He said: For England’s first XI, we’ll know more after the upcoming friendlies, but on the back of last season, I’d definitely start with Steven Gerrard,Daniel Sturridge, Jordan Henderson and Raheem Sterling. The question mark is Glen Johnson at right back.

It’s probably Phil Jones’ best position right now, even though Jones could still develop into a great centre half. Johnson is a touch better going forward, but it’s a tight call.{GMS}

Eagles Okay Odunlami’s Condition After Injury Scare | INFORMATION NIGERIA

Eagles Okay Odunlamis Condition After Injury Scare

Posted by: Omaku Cephas on May 30, 2014

Nigeria defender Kunle Odunlamis injury is not as serious as feared, according to the team media officer Ben Alaiya.

The Sunshine Stars defender was stretchered off in the 74th minute of Wednesdays 2-2 draw against Scotland at Craven Cottage, after picking up a knock on his knee.

Odunlamis injury is not a serious one, he had knock on his knee which shouldnt be a problem. Hes fine, said Alaiya.

Odunlami Only Picked Up a Knock in Scotland Friendly.

The 23-year-old is one of the five invited home-based players looking to make coach Stephen Keshis final 23-man squad for Brazil.

Confirmed: Arsene Wenger signs new deal | INFORMATION NIGERIA

Confirmed: Arsene Wenger signs new deal

Posted by: @femi4arsenal on May 30, 2014

Wenger

Arsenal have confirmed that Arsene Wenger has finally put pen-to-paper on a new contract that will keep him at the club for another three years.

The extension, which is believed to have been agreed as far back as the autumn and is worth approximately £24 million in total, means the 64- year-old could be at the helm until summer 2017 a ridiculously impressive 21 year shift in North London.

Speaking about his decision to stay on at the Emirates the boss underlined that his commitment to the club was never in doubt. “I want to stay and to continue to develop the team and the club. We are entering a very exciting period.

We have a strong squad, financial stability and huge support around the world. We are all determined to bring more success to this club.

“The club has always shown faith in me and I’m very grateful for that. We have gone through fantastic periods and also periods where we have had to sticktogether. Every time when that togetherness was tested I got the right response. I think I have shown some loyalty as well towards this club and hopefully we can make some more history. I am sure we can.”

Stan Kroenke, no doubt pleased he’s not going to spend his summer ‘doing a Levy’, praised the Frenchman for his achievements while also looking toa bright future.

“Sustained excellence is the hardest thing to achieve in sport and the fact Arsenal has competed at the top of the game in England and Europe throughout the time Arsène has been manager, is the ultimate testimony to his consistency of performance, talent and ambition.

“We are delighted with the FA Cup success which has added to his already outstanding record. Under his guidance we look forward to adding more trophies in future seasons.”

As has been well-documented Wenger has led the Gunners to seven major trophies since joining in 1996, an achievement that surpasses those of hispredecessors in the role. He’s also, in case you weren’t listening at the back, secured 17 consecutive years of Champions League football.{Arseblognews}

Hector Moreno open to Manchester United move this summer | INFORMATION NIGERIA

Hector Moreno open to Manchester United move this summer

Posted by: @femi4arsenal on May 30, 2014

Hector

Mexican international Hector Moreno is open to a move to Manchester United to once again link-up with former boss Louis van Gaal, it has been claimed.

This is according to reports cited by The Daily Express, which claims that both the Red Devils and Serie A outfit Inter Milan are interested in signing the £8 million-rated Espanyol defender but his positiverelationship with Van Gaal fostered during the pairs spell in the Eredivisie with AZ Alkmaar gives the Red Devils an advantage.

26-year-old Moreno who is part of Miguel Herreras squad for the World Cup in Brazil this summer has been in La Liga since 2011 but looks certain to leave Estadi Cornellà-El Prat in the near future with recent comments from the players agent having firmly highlighted his desire to seek pastures new.

A new centre-back will almost certainly be a priority for Manchester United and Van Gaal during the upcoming transfer market, particularly due to the fact that fans are having to bid farewell to theexperienced duo of Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand with their respective contracts at Old Trafford having reached their conclusions.

With 50 senior international caps and several years of top-flight football ahead of him, 26-year-old Moreno could be an ideal option for Manchester United.

Although a difficult 2013/14 campaign that also saw Manchester United fail to qualify for the group stages of next seasons Champions League has seenthe clubs reputation regress somewhat, Inter have also failed to really achieve sustained success over recent seasons and as such may not pose the samethreat in the market as the likes of other European heavyweights.

Van Gaal is notably loyal to his former players, of course, and it is certainly worth noting that AZ Alkmaar lifted the Dutch title during their time at AFAS Stadion back in 2009.

Manchester United fans, would you be content to see Moreno arrive this summer? Is he a big enough nameor are you expecting slightly more reputable recruits to arrive under Van Gaals leadership? Let us know your thoughts in the comment box provided below.{GMS}

Petr Cech exit looms | INFORMATION NIGERIA

Petr Cech exit looms

Posted by: @femi4arsenal on May 30, 2014

Cech

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has decided that Thibaut Courtois will be his number one goalkeeper from the start of next season and has subsequently put Petr Cech on the transfer list.

The Portuguese coach is keen to avoid arepeat scenario of what happened at hisformer club Real Madrid, where long-serving

‘keeper Iker Casillas was dropped to the bench in favour of Diego Lopez, causing a huge amount of unrest at the Bernabeu.

This is according to well-connected Spanish newspaper Marca, who claim Atletico Madrid have reluctantly accepted Mourinho’s decision to bringback Courtois after he wooed the young Belgium international with two magic words: stater status.

Courtois, despite arriving at Stamford Bridge in 2011, has not made a single appearance for his parent club, spending the last three years on loan with Atletico instead.

The 22-year-old was not interested in returning to Chelsea unless he was guaranteed first-team football next season with the west London outfit. And after another wonderful season, in which he played a pivotal role in helping Atletico win La Liga for the first time since 1996 and reach the Champions League final, Courtois has proved to Mourinho that he is more than ready to start for the Blues next term.

Courtois, who will start ahead of Liverpool goalkeeper Simon Mignolet for Belgium at next month’s World Cup finals in Brazil, has been La Liga’s standout

‘keeper for the last two season. In fact, some now believe he has cemented his status as the world’s best player in his position, ahead of Bayern Munich’sManuel Neuer.

Unfortunately, though, Courtois’ return will spell the end of Cech’s tenure as a Chelsea player. The Czech Republic international has been linked with the likes of Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal in recent weeks and it looks increasingly likely that the 32-year-oldwill leave the Blues, after 10 years at the club, this summer.{GMS}

Toure battling Malaria | INFORMATION NIGERIA

Toure battling Malaria

Posted by: @femi4arsenal on May 30, 2014

Toure

Liverpool defender Kolo Toure will miss Ivory Coasts friendly against Bosnia-Herzegovina after being diagnosed with malaria.

The 33-year-old, who previously suffered with the illness in 2008, fell ill during a trip to Abdijan prior to joining up with the Elephants World Cup squad in Dallas and will now sit out Saturdays match in St. Louis, which kicks-off at 01:30 BST, as he recovers.

Toures condition is not thought to be serious, and team doctor Cyrille Dah believes he will return prior to his sides World Cup opener against Japan in Recife on June 15.

Kolo Toure suffers from malaria contracted during his brief stay in Abidjan before joining the camp in Dallas, he told the Ivorian Football Federations official website. Since Wednesday Kolo has been having treatment. This treatment will end on Friday.

We have therefore told him to rest. He will not participate in the match against Bosnia-Herzegovina, but will return early next week.

Dr Dah also confirmed that Kolos brother, Yaya, is suffering a muscle injury but will be fit for the World Cup.

Yaya Toure, on the last day of the English championship, suffered a muscle problem. It has been taken care of in Doha by specialists who have an agreement partnership with the federation. It is going very well and he will join the camp in Dallas.{GMS}