Mazzarri blames defeat on heavy workload

<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JUQXSQXvNoc/U-fKwZ8yYlI/AAAAAAAAAEc/XvKaUjwoXGQ/s1600/595469header.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Mazzarri blames defeat on heavy workload" border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JUQXSQXvNoc/U-fKwZ8yYlI/AAAAAAAAAEc/XvKaUjwoXGQ/s1600/595469header.jpg" title="Mazzarri blames defeat on heavy workload" width="320" /></a>Inter coach Walter Mazzarri put Inter's 3-1 friendly defeat to Eintracht Frankfurt on Sunday down to a challenging week of training.<br /> <br /> The Serie A outfit had gone in front at the Commerzbank-Arena through Ruben Botta, but on-loan Chelsea man Lucas Piazon levelled for Frankfurt.<br /> <br /> Haris Seferovic then netted twice before half-time as Inter succumbed to defeat in their penultimate friendly before their return to competitive action in the UEFA Europa League play-offs in 10 days' time.<br /> <br /> Mazzarri, while disappointed with the result, felt the hard work put in by his players during the week had been detrimental to their short-term cause.<br /> <br /> "Was this down to the heavy workload during the week? I don't want any excuses," he told Inter Channel.<br /> <br /> "My fitness coach told me we needed to work on strength right now, as otherwise we'd lack sharpness later on in the season. I think the lads paid that price and they looked pretty heavy-legged.<br /> <br /> "We weren't sharp and I hope that is only down to the fitness work. At this stage of the season it's easy to do well in one game and badly the next. If you lack just a tiny bit of sharpness and focus, then you can trip up.<br /> <br /> "Up until our goal Eintracht hadn't created any chances, but we have to be more concentrated in some situations. Perhaps we subconsciously let go after taking the lead.<br /> <br /> "In the second half we focused on damage limitation."

Chelsea coach Eintracht Frankfurt Europa League football Haris Seferovic Inter news news sports Serie A UEFA Walter Mazzarri Mazzarri blames defeat on heavy workload

Inter coach Walter Mazzarri put Inter's 3-1 friendly defeat to Eintracht Frankfurt on Sunday down to a challenging week of training. T...

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Stewart speaks of sadness following fatal collision

<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-21KtQ9-QF2U/U-fKIbF2AMI/AAAAAAAAAEI/B_yickdCZak/s1600/595467header.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Stewart speaks of sadness following fatal collision" border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-21KtQ9-QF2U/U-fKIbF2AMI/AAAAAAAAAEI/B_yickdCZak/s1600/595467header.jpg" title="Stewart speaks of sadness following fatal collision" width="320" /></a>Tony Stewart has spoken of his sadness after being involved in a collision that took the life of fellow driver Kevin Ward Jr. on Saturday.<br /> <br /> According to authorities and eye-witness accounts, the three-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion hit and killed Ward Jr. who had walked towards Stewart's car after the two had an altercation during a race at Canandaigua Motorsports Park.<br /> <br /> The Ontario County (N.Y.) Sheriff’s Office confirmed in a news release that Ward Jr. had been declared dead 45 minutes after the incident upon arrival at Thompson Hospital.<br /> <br /> Some reports suggested that Stewart would still take part in Sunday's Cheez-It 355 Sprint Cup Series event in Watkins Glen, New York, but Stewart-Haas Racing vice president of competition Greg Zipadelli confirmed the 43-year-old's withdrawal earlier in the day.<br /> <br /> And Stewart has now released his own brief statement.<br /> <br /> "There aren't words to describe the sadness I feel about the accident that took the life of Kevin Ward Jr.," it read.<br /> <br /> "It's a very emotional time for all involved, and it is the reason I've decided not to participate in today's race at Watkins Glen.<br /> <br /> "My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and everyon affected by this tragedy."<br /> <br /> In relation to Saturday's tragedy, Sheriff Philip C. Povero had earlier told reporters: "Right now, this is an on-track crash investigation.<br /> <br /> "There are no criminal charges pending at this time. We are not making any inferences of any criminal conduct at all.<br /> <br /> "He [Stewart] was visibly shaken by this incident and promised his continuing cooperation of this investigation."

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Tony Stewart has spoken of his sadness after being involved in a collision that took the life of fellow driver Kevin Ward Jr. on Saturday. ...

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Wenger gives Arsenal captaincy to Arteta

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JuI6h-jdHkc/U-fIjCXhoCI/AAAAAAAAAD8/tmwyCbWuPi4/s1600/IMG_20140727_061819.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Wenger gives Arsenal captaincy to Arteta" border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JuI6h-jdHkc/U-fIjCXhoCI/AAAAAAAAAD8/tmwyCbWuPi4/s1600/IMG_20140727_061819.jpg" title="Wenger gives Arsenal captaincy to Arteta" width="320" /></a></div> Arsene Wenger confirmed Mikel Arteta as Arsenal's new captain after watching his side beat Manchester City 3-0 in the Community Shield.<br /> <br /> Hours after the sale of former skip<br /> per Thomas Vermaelen to Barcelona, Arsenal dispatched the Premier League champions at Wembley on Sunday as Santi Cazorla, Aaron Ramsey and Olivier Giroud found the net in an impressive performance.<br /> <br /> Arteta featured alongside Jack Wilshere as the FA Cup holders dominated central midfield and Wenger named the former Everton player as his new captain, with Per Mertesacker to serve as vice-captain.<br /> <br /> Wenger said: "One, Arteta and two, Mertesacker. Arteta will be captain and Mertesacker vice-captain."<br /> <br /> Mertesacker was absent against City due to an extended break after being part of Germany's triumphant World Cup squad.<br /> <br /> It opened the way for close-season signing Calum Chambers to partner Laurent Koscielny at centre-back and the 19-year-old produced as assured display, despite playing the majority of his senior football to date at right-back.<br /> <br /> "For a 19-year-old he had an outstanding performance," Wenger said. "The kind of performance he delivered is very promising.<br /> <br /> "It's impressive because he hasn't got a long history in this position because he was a right-back and I think if all goes well he has a good career in front of him.<br /> <br /> "He can challenge both centre-backs and that's what you want. You cannot play with two centre-backs the whole season; that means he will play."<br /> <br /> At the other end of the field, an Arsenal attack featuring showpiece new signing Alexis Sanchez caused City no end of problems and Wenger is pleased with the talent at his disposal for the new campaign.<br /> <br /> "I have more attacking options than I had for a long time - that's for sure," he said.<br /> <br /> "Three, four, five years ago, every year we lost a big player. In the last two years, we added players like [Mesut] Ozil and this season like Alexis so of course that strengthens the squad.<br /> <br /> "I am, of course, very ambitious but I'm a bit cautious because I have quite a good experience. I look around and see the other teams have strengthened as well so it will be interesting to watch the Premier League because it looks like all the big teams will be very strong."<br /> <br /> Arsenal's title bid last term was undermined by heavy defeats at the hands of fellow Premier League heavyweights.<br /> <br /> "That's why it was important for us not to lose the game," Wenger added.<br /> <br /> "On that front we know that last year we were very consistent against the teams outside the top six and not consistent against the top six teams.<br /> <br /> "The year before it was reversed so let's hope that this year it will be right on both sides."

Arsenal Arsene Wenger football Manchester City Mikel Arteta news news sports Wenger gives Arsenal captaincy to Arteta

Arsene Wenger confirmed Mikel Arteta as Arsenal's new captain after watching his side beat Manchester City 3-0 in the Community Shield...

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Martinez - McCarthy form will be rewarded

<a href="http://cache.images.core.optasports.com/news/soccer/2014/8/8/592725header.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cache.images.core.optasports.com/news/soccer/2014/8/8/592725header.jpg" /></a>James McCarthy is the next Everton player in line for a new contract after impressing in his debut season, says Roberto Martinez.<br /> <br /> Martinez has just tied down young defender John Stones to a new five-year contract and is keen to reward the work done by McCarthy since his arrival from Wigan Athletic.<br /> <br /> The pair worked together at the DW Stadium for four years and the 23-year-old midfielder was one of the first players Martinez brought with him to Goodison Park.<br /> <br /> After making his debut against Chelsea last September, McCarthy went on to make 34 appearances as Everton finished fifth in the Premier League table.<br /> <br /> His continued progress has earned him further international recognition with the Republic of Ireland - he now has 23 caps - and Martinez insists a new deal is on the cards.<br /> <br /> "It will be natural. James's contract is already performance related so the longer that he plays he gets a bigger reward," he told the Liverpool Echo.<br /> <br /> "We will always be looking at rewarding players as they do well and James, clearly, is one of those.<br /> <br /> "We always want to keep our young players important at the club and keep rewarding them. That will never change. That goes along with players who change their roles in the squad.<br /> <br /> "We talk a lot about our young players and rightly so, but sometimes we forget that without that solid base of experienced lads behind them you don't go anywhere.<br /> <br /> "We must remember that we have continuity too which is vital."<br /> <br /> Tim Howard, Seamus Coleman and Ross Barkley have also signed new contracts at Goodison Park during the close-season.

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James McCarthy is the next Everton player in line for a new contract after impressing in his debut season, says Roberto Martinez. Martinez...

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Ramsey aims to emulate Lampard and Gerrard

<a href="http://cache.images.core.optasports.com/news/soccer/2014/8/8/592773header.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cache.images.core.optasports.com/news/soccer/2014/8/8/592773header.jpg" /></a>Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey wants to match the goal-scoring exploits of Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard over the next few years.<br /> <br /> Ramsey struck 16 times in all competitions for the London club last season, easily his best haul since his move from Cardiff City in 2008.<br /> <br /> The last of those goals was also arguably Arsenal's most important in nine years, as Ramsey burst into the box in extra-time in the FA Cup Final to score the winner against Hull City and ensure Arsenal secured their first major trophy since 2005.<br /> <br /> Just like Lampard in the 2009 FA Cup Final and Gerrard in the 2005 UEFA Champions League decider, Ramsey produced the goods when it mattered most and the Welshman wants to become Arsenal's answer to the famous English midfield duo for years to come.<br /> <br /> "I see myself as that midfielder who can score goals for Arsenal and I think that's important," Ramsey told The Telegraph on Thursday.<br /> <br /> "It's proven over the years to be important for successful sides to have goal-scoring midfielders and, hopefully, I'll do the same this season.<br /> <br /> "The likes of Gerrard and Lampard have done it for many years on a consistent basis and that will be my aim now to do that.<br /> <br /> "I've always felt I'd be a goal-scoring midfielder. Before my serious injury, I had broken into the team and scored a few goals. I've always believed in my ability to do that and I've always been in goal-scoring situations.<br /> <br /> "But I haven't been as composed as I was last season. I just felt like I had a lot more time in front of goal, whereas in the past I rushed a few decisions and shots that I made."<br /> <br /> Arsenal will return to Wembley on Sunday for the Community Shield against Manchester City and the Wales international is determined to start the new season on a high note.<br /> <br /> "Our season starts on Sunday and we'll be going out to win the game," he said.<br /> <br /> "It will be a good marker because we let ourselves down last year against the bigger teams. If we improve on that this season, we'll have a great chance [to win the Premier League] and we'll be right there at the end."

Arsenal Champions League FA Cup Frank Lampard news news sports Premier League Ramsey Steven Gerrard UEFA Ramsey aims to emulate Lampard and Gerrard

Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey wants to match the goal-scoring exploits of Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard over the next few years. Rams...

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Nicky Butt Van Gaal has Ferguson aura

<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16.00299835205078px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;"> <a href="http://cache.images.core.optasports.com/news/soccer/2014/8/8/592771header.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cache.images.core.optasports.com/news/soccer/2014/8/8/592771header.jpg" style="background-color: transparent;" /></a>Nicky Butt is confident Manchester United are in safe hands this season after likening new boss Louis van Gaal to Alex Ferguson.</div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16.00299835205078px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;"> Butt has been impressed with the way the Dutchman, who guided his country to third place in the World Cup, has settled in at United and believes the club could challenge for the title this season.</div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16.00299835205078px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;"> The former United midfielder has been retained as part of the backroom staff at Old Trafford, with his focus on developing young players.</div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16.00299835205078px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;"> David Moyes struggled under the pressure of succeeding Alex Ferguson at United last season, but 39-year-old Butt does not expect the new man in charge to have any such problems.</div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16.00299835205078px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;"> "He is obviously a very in-control man," he told the Manchester Evening News. "He has an aura about him - when he walks in the building, you know who the boss is, and I think that is very important.</div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16.00299835205078px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;"> "We had that with Sir Alex for all those years and I think we have that now with Van Gaal. He walks into the building and he commands your respect.</div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16.00299835205078px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;"> "All the players look up to him as the leader and that is how it should be.</div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16.00299835205078px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;"> "From afar, when I've looked at him it looks like he takes no messing about and if anyone doesn't toe the line, I'm sure they will be out of the team."</div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16.00299835205078px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;"> United have won every game since the 63-year-old arrived and have one friendly against Valencia remaining before their opening Premier League clash with Swansea City on August 16</div>

Ferguson football Manchester United news news sports Nicky Butt Premier League soccer United Van Gaal Nicky Butt Van Gaal has Ferguson aura

Nicky Butt is confident Manchester United are in safe hands this season after likening new boss Louis van Gaal to Alex Ferguson. Butt has...

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Promes agrees Spartak switch

<a href="http://cache.images.core.optasports.com/news/soccer/2014/8/8/592797header.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cache.images.core.optasports.com/news/soccer/2014/8/8/592797header.jpg" /></a>Spartak Moscow have announced the signing of promising Dutch forward Quincy Promes on a four-year contract from Twente.<br /> <br /> Promes burst onto the scene in the Eredivise last season with 11 goals in 31 appearances as Twente qualified for the UEFA Europa League with a third-placed finish.<br /> <br /> The 22-year-old's domestic form attracted attention from then-Netherlands coach Louis van Gaal and earned him an international debut against France at Stade de France in March.<br /> <br /> Promes was also included in Van Gaal's provisional squad for the World Cup in Brazil, but failed to make the final 23.<br /> <br /> His form attracted the attention of a number of clubs, but it is Spartak have won the race for his signature and Promes is looking forward to the next chapter in his career.<br /> <br /> "I am happy that all the formalities are settled and I am now a Spartak player," he told the club's official website.<br /> <br /> "For me as a young player, this move is certainly a step forward.<br /> <br /> "Here I get the opportunity to grow and develop as a professional, playing in a strong league, and I hope to be able to benefit from a new team.<br /> <br /> "This is a very big club with a great history."<br /> <br /> Twente have moved quickly to replace Promes with the signing of South Africa international Kamohelo Mokotjo from Zwolle on a four-year deal.

Champions League football news news sports Spartak Twente UEFA Promes agrees Spartak switch

Spartak Moscow have announced the signing of promising Dutch forward Quincy Promes on a four-year contract from Twente. Promes burst onto ...

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Bruce not ruling out more signings

<a href="http://cache.images.core.optasports.com/news/soccer/2014/8/8/592653header.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cache.images.core.optasports.com/news/soccer/2014/8/8/592653header.jpg" /></a>Hull City boss Steve Bruce is not ruling out making even more additions to his squad before the transfer window closes.<br /> <br /> After leading the club to a maiden FA Cup final last term, Bruce has strengthened significantly with over £20million worth of investment in his first-team squad.<br /> <br /> Jake Livermore's permanent arrival from Tottenham after a successful loan has been supplemented by the signing of attacking pair Tom Ince and Robert Snodgrass as well as promising defenders Harry Maguire and Andrew Robertson.<br /> <br /> And speaking after Hull secured a UEFA Europa League play-off berth with a 2-1 win over Trencin on Thursday, Bruce confirmed he will go after further signatures if suitable targets become available.<br /> <br /> "I always knock the door, I think every manager is never ever finished," he explained.<br /> <br /> "The day I say no is the day I may as well pack it in. We always look to improve.<br /> <br /> "I had five [on Thursday] not stripped, the two we've brought in - Maguire and Robertson - [Nikica] Jelavic, [Maynor] Figueroa, [George] Boyd.<br /> <br /> "We've got healthy competition all round but always if there’s a bit of quality then I'll try."<br /> <br /> One area Bruce is reportedly keen to strengthen is his attack with Matt Fryatt leaving for Nottingham Forest after slipping behind Shane Long and Jelavic in the pecking order.<br /> <br /> Yannick Sagbo is Bruce's only remaining out-and-out frontman other than his first-choice pairing.<br /> <br /> While keeping tight-lipped on his potential striker search, Bruce praised Long's efforts against Trencin despite the Irishman finding himself repeatedly thwarted by Slovakian goalkeeper Milos Volesak.<br /> <br /> The Hull boss added: "Strikers keep getting there, two or three of the chances he [Long] got there himself with his blistering pace to be fair to him and he made them himself.<br /> <br /> "He'll be disappointed that he hasn't scored knowing him but like any striker they've got to keep getting there, next week let's hope it's his turn and he sticks a couple in."

FA Cup football news news sports UEFA Bruce not ruling out more signings

Hull City boss Steve Bruce is not ruling out making even more additions to his squad before the transfer window closes. After leading the ...

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Spahic retires from international football

<a href="http://cache.images.core.optasports.com/news/soccer/2014/8/8/592651header.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cache.images.core.optasports.com/news/soccer/2014/8/8/592651header.jpg" /></a>Emir Spahic called time on his international career with Bosnia-Herzegovina following their group-stage exit at the World Cup in Brazil.<br /> <br /> Spahic wore the captain's armband as Bosnia-Herzegovina failed to reach the knockout rounds in their debut appearance at the World Cup last month, finishing behind Argentina and Nigeria in Group F.<br /> <br /> And the 33-year-old centre-back - Bosnia-Herzegovina's longest serving captain and second-most capped player - announced on Thursday that he was retiring after 77 appearances for the national team.<br /> <br /> "I gave it a lot of thought and decided to hang up my national team boots after consultation with my friends and family," Spahic told Bosnian media.<br /> <br /> "I am proud to have played in the World Cup with this group and the time has come for younger lads to take over.<br /> <br /> "I wish the team all the best in Euro 2016 qualifiers."<br /> <br /> Spahic, who made his debut as a substitute against Romania in 2003, stepped down from international duty in an effort to prolong his club career with Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen, according to Bosnia-Herzegovina coach Safet Susic.<br /> <br /> "Spahic told me after the World Cup he needed a bit of time to make a decision and when he did, he explained that he wanted to focus on his club duties," said Susic.<br /> <br /> "I respect his decision. He was a great player and captain for Bosnia and it will be difficult to replace him."

Brazil football news news sports Spahic Spahic retires from international football

Emir Spahic called time on his international career with Bosnia-Herzegovina following their group-stage exit at the World Cup in Brazil. S...

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United target Vidal back running

<a href="http://cache.images.core.optasports.com/news/soccer/2014/8/8/592645header.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cache.images.core.optasports.com/news/soccer/2014/8/8/592645header.jpg" /></a>Midfielder Arturo Vidal has resumed running but a date for his return remains unknown, according to Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri.<br /> <br /> Vidal, 27, had knee surgery in May, but still played a huge part for Chile at the World Cup.<br /> <br /> Louis van Gaal's concerns over the problem are reportedly all that is standing between Vidal and a move to Premier League giants Manchester United.<br /> <br /> Allegri, whose team are in Australia to face an A-League All Stars team on Sunday, confirmed Vidal was back running.<br /> <br /> "He is running since yesterday, but we will evaluate day by day his condition and when it is best for him to start playing again," Allegri told a news conference in Sydney on Friday.<br /> <br /> Sunday's clash at ANZ Stadium will mark the first, and probably last, time Juventus great Alessandro Del Piero takes on his former club.<br /> <br /> Juve goalkeeper and captain Gianluigi Buffon said it would be "beautiful" to face his former club and Italy team-mate, but hopes he can keep the attacker off the scoresheet.<br /> <br /> Former Sydney FC star Del Piero, who is without a club, will captain the All Stars.<br /> <br /> "Of course having a game against Alex is something completely new for me and for Juventus of course," Buffon said.<br /> <br /> "It will be a beautiful experience to have this game against Del Piero and I hope there will be chances for everybody to entertain the public.<br /> <br /> "Hopefully one of these chances won't be Alex scoring a goal against Juventus."

Chile football Juventus Manchester United Massimiliano Allegri news news sports United Vidal United target Vidal back running

Midfielder Arturo Vidal has resumed running but a date for his return remains unknown, according to Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri. V...

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Sharapova, Kvitova exit as Williams rolls on

<a href="http://cache.images.core.optasports.com/news/tennis/2014/8/8/592647header.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cache.images.core.optasports.com/news/tennis/2014/8/8/592647header.jpg" /></a>Maria Sharapova and Petra Kvitova were among the surprise losers at the Rogers Cup as Serena Williams advanced on Thursday.<br /> <br /> Sharapova, the Russian fourth seed, slumped to a 6-2 4-6 6-2 loss to Spain's Carla Suarez Navarro on the hard courts in Montreal.<br /> <br /> The 14th-seeded Suarez Navarro broke Sharapova's serve nine times – three of those came in the deciding set – in the third-round win.<br /> <br /> Suarez Navarro faces another powerful opponent in the quarter-finals in American Venus Williams, who also claimed a scalp by beating German sixth seed Angelique Kerber 6-3 3-6 6-4.<br /> <br /> Czech second seed Kvitova exited the WTA Premier event after a 6-4 1-6 6-2 defeat to Russian left-hander Ekaterina Makarova.<br /> <br /> On a day of upsets, Makarova's quarter-final opponent Coco Vandeweghe stunned Jelena Jankovic.<br /> <br /> American qualifier Vandeweghe fought to a 7-6 (10-8) 2-6 7-5 win over the Serbian seventh seed.<br /> <br /> As seeds around her were beaten, Serena Williams avoided problems against Czech Lucie Safarova.<br /> <br /> The world number one clinched a 7-5 6-4 victory over the 15th-seeded Safarova.<br /> <br /> Williams will face in-form Danish 11th seed Caroline Wozniacki, who needed just 56 minutes to crush American qualifier Shelby Rogers 6-1 6-0.<br /> <br /> Rogers could win just four points in the second set hammering.<br /> <br /> Belarusian eighth seed Victoria Azarenka was a 6-2 6-4 winner over British qualifier Heather Watson and Polish third seed Agnieszka Radwanska overcame German Sabine Lisicki 6-1 3-6 6-3

Maria Sharapova news Petra Kvitova Rogers Cup Sharapova, Kvitova exit as Williams rolls on

Maria Sharapova and Petra Kvitova were among the surprise losers at the Rogers Cup as Serena Williams advanced on Thursday. Sharapova, the...

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Poyet ´confident´ of Fabio Borini capture

<a href="http://cache.images.core.optasports.com/news/soccer/2014/8/8/592641header.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cache.images.core.optasports.com/news/soccer/2014/8/8/592641header.jpg" /></a>Sunderland manager Gus Poyet remains confident the club will sign Liverpool striker Fabio Borini.<br /> <br /> Poyet confirmed last month that terms had been agreed with Liverpool to bring Borini back to the Stadium of Light after a successful loan spell in 2013-14.<br /> <br /> But the Italian's move to Sunderland was put on ice following a shoulder injury sustained during Liverpool's pre-season fixture against Roma in the United States.<br /> <br /> Sunderland remain interested in Borini and speaking after Thursday's 2-0 win over Real Betis, Poyet said the club were staying patient in their pursuit of the 23-year-old.<br /> <br /> "We're still waiting," said Poyet.<br /> <br /> "There's no more than last week, no more than next week.<br /> <br /> "We're waiting but it's still ongoing. I'm still confident it will happen."<br /> <br /> Borini netted seven goals in 32 league appearances as Sunderland avoided relegation last season.<br /> <br /> The former Chelsea youth product also scored three goals in the Capital One Cup, including the opener in the decider against Manchester City.<br /> <br /> "I don't think the word is 'frustrating' because we knew after he travelled and the [shoulder] injury that it would take a bit longer," added Poyet.<br /> <br /> "We'll keep working because we know him very well.<br /> <br /> "Fabio ticks all the boxes because we know what we're going to get and how important it is for us and the fans as well.<br /> <br /> "We are in a very good position... waiting.<br /> <br /> "It's that last step, that little thing that is going to close it."<br /> <br /> "Sometimes it's easy, sometimes it takes a bit longer."

Fabio Borini football Gus Poyet news news sports Sunderland Poyet ´confident´ of Fabio Borini capture

Sunderland manager Gus Poyet remains confident the club will sign Liverpool striker Fabio Borini. Poyet confirmed last month that terms ha...

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Tinkov warns UCI he is ready for war

Tinkoff-Saxo's team owner Oleg Tinkov warned the International Cycling Union (UCI) not to make him their enemy.<br /> <a href="http://cache.images.core.optasports.com/news/cycling/2014/8/8/592631header.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cache.images.core.optasports.com/news/cycling/2014/8/8/592631header.jpg" /></a><br /> Tinkov is unhappy with how the UCI have dealt with their case against Tinkoff-Saxo rider Roman Kreuziger, who allegedly has anomalies in his biological passport, while he believes cycling's international governing body are "the main obstacle" to improving the sport.<br /> <br /> The Russian businessman has been vocal in his criticism of the way pro cycling is run since he bought Tinkoff-Saxo late last year, while he has reportedly been part of the secretive Project Avignon organisation that is investigating how to improve the UCI WorldTour.<br /> <br /> In an interview with Cyclingnews, Tinkov warned the UCI that if they try to silence him, he is willing to start a war to protect his interests.<br /> <br /> "Some people think the UCI will go against us now and perhaps not give us a [WorldTour] licence as they did with Katusha. But I'm not looking to start a war, I'm just trying to change cycling, to make it better," he said.<br /> <br /> "I'm the one paying the bills and I'm the one with a heart for this sport and just want to make it more valuable and better.<br /> <br /> "But if I start the war there will be no hostages. They should understand that. I'm not starting a war yet but if they want one, then they will cry.<br /> <br /> "Of course, if they're ready to sit down and discuss things in a normal way then we should do that. If they're looking for a war then I'm ready, no problem. Then they will push me to become the Bernie Ecclestone of cycling and create my own league.<br /> <br /> "I have a sponsor behind me and I have investors behind me. If we - the team owners - make an agreement with ASO [the Amaury Sport Organisation - that runs the Tour de France, Vuelta a Espana and other elite cycling races], why do we need the UCI?"<br /> <br /> Tinkov added he is planning legal action against the UCI for their provisional suspension against Kreuziger.<br /> <br /> Tinkoff-Saxo left Kreuziger out of the Tour de France due to perceived anomalies in his biological passport, which is a record of a cyclist's biological markers used to combat doping.<br /> <br /> Kreuziger was then named in Tinkoff-Saxo's Tour de Pologne squad but the UCI stepped in, suspending the 28-year-old until his case is heard.<br /> <br /> Tinkov feels that is unfair.<br /> <br /> "My idea now is to ask them for compensation. I want them to face their commercial responsibilities," the 46-year-old said.<br /> <br /> "Maybe I'll take action in a London court not in a sporting court. They're managing big business sport and so they have to be responsible for what they're doing.<br /> <br /> "I've basically lost a lot of money because of their stupid procedures. They need clarify the rules for the biological passport. Some people, some experts say there are anomalies. Others say there aren't but who is going to prove what is the truth and when? And how long is all going to take?"<br /> <br /> Tinkov claimed he originally thought the ASO were holding pro cycling back but now blames the UCI, claiming they are restricting his ability to profit from the sport.<br /> <br /> "The UCI doesn't care about the money. They're a bunch of bureaucrats," he said.<br /> <br /> "They've tried to establish the rules but can't even do that. They don't understand about business and money and are making a real mess at the moment."

news news sports Tinkov UCI Tinkov warns UCI he is ready for war

Tinkoff-Saxo's team owner Oleg Tinkov warned the International Cycling Union (UCI) not to make him their enemy. Tinkov is unhappy with...

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John John StonesStones eyeing future captaincy

<a href="http://cache.images.core.optasports.com/news/soccer/2014/8/8/592635header.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cache.images.core.optasports.com/news/soccer/2014/8/8/592635header.jpg" /></a>Young defender John Stones said he would "jump" at the chance to captain Everton in the future after signing a new contract.<br /> <br /> Stones, 20, committed his long-term future to the club by penning a five-year deal - a reward for his stellar 2013-14 Premier League campaign.<br /> <br /> And the former Barnsley youth player, who made 26 appearances in his first full season at Goodison Park, told Everton's official website he has the potential to wear the armband just like skipper Phil Jagielka.<br /> <br /> "I'd love to captain Everton," said Stones, who has also earned two international caps for England.<br /> <br /> "It's a massive dream of mine and the big name players that have done it in the past, I would love to follow in their footsteps.<br /> <br /> "I'd like to think that I have the attributes [to be a captain].<br /> <br /> "I'd like to think that I can do it in the future and, if that chance came along, I would jump on it straight away."<br /> <br /> Stones added: "It's been massive for my learning curve to play alongside Jags [Jagielka] and Sylvain [Distin].<br /> <br /> "They are experienced pros and to learn off them day in and day out and in games is helping me as a person.<br /> <br /> "They are leaders and hopefully I can keep learning off them to get better as a player."

Everton football John Stones news news sports Premier League John John StonesStones eyeing future captaincy

Young defender John Stones said he would "jump" at the chance to captain Everton in the future after signing a new contract. Sto...

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CONCACAF Champions League Review Comunicaciones start strongly

<a href="http://cache.images.core.optasports.com/news/soccer/2014/8/8/592639header.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cache.images.core.optasports.com/news/soccer/2014/8/8/592639header.jpg" /></a>Comunicaciones opened their CONCACAF Champions League campaign with a 4-0 victory over Bayamon, while debutants Waterhouse won away.<br /> <br /> Rolando Blackburn struck a hat-trick for Comunicaciones as the Guatemalan club stormed to the top of Group Eight, while Waterhouse defeated Tauro 2-1 to claim first position in Group Four.<br /> <br /> Comunicaciones blitzed Bayamon in the opening half hour on Thursday, scoring three times, including two goals to Blackburn, while the Panamanian striker added his third just two minutes after half-time.<br /> <br /> The Guatemalans missed out on qualifying for the knockout stages of last season's Champions League, finishing six points behind Toluca of Mexico, but William Coito's team gave themselves every chance of progressing this term with a big win at home.<br /> <br /> Comunicaciones took the lead in the ninth minute when Jairo Arreola collected an initial right-wing cross on the left-hand side of the box and drilled his pass back across goal for Blackburn to tap in.<br /> <br /> The home side had the ball in the back of the net again in the 20th minute when Arreola drilled his shot past Bayamon goalkeeper Maximiliano Torlacoff but the goal was ruled out for a foul.<br /> <br /> Comunicaciones did not have to wait much longer for their second goal, however, as Agustin Herrera struck a minute later, finishing off left-back Jorge Aparicio's cross.<br /> <br /> Bayamon's right-hand side struggled in the opening half hour and Comunicaciones took advantage again in the 28th minute.<br /> <br /> The home team's captain Jose Contreras found space on the left and chipped the ball to the back post for Blackburn to score with his head.<br /> <br /> Blackburn effectively wrapped up the win for Coito's side in the 47th minute, getting his head to a corner, after Torlacoff came off his line but missed the ball.<br /> <br /> In Panama, local club Tauro failed to complete a late comeback against Waterhouse.<br /> <br /> The visitors from Jamaica had hit the front in the second minute through a brilliant free-kick from Romario Campbell and doubled their advantage 17 minutes later when Upston Edwards' driving run set up Damarley Samuels.<br /> <br /> But Tauro surged in the second half with Jair Renteria scoring with five minutes left, converting the rebound after Christian Lopez hit the bar.<br /> <br /> Rolando Palma's team could not find an equaliser, however, as Waterhouse won on their continental debut.

Champions League CONCACAF news sports Rolando SPORT SPORTS CONCACAF Champions League Review Comunicaciones start strongly

Comunicaciones opened their CONCACAF Champions League campaign with a 4-0 victory over Bayamon, while debutants Waterhouse won away. Rolan...

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Duminy calls for focus

<a href="http://cache.images.core.optasports.com/news/cricket/2014/8/8/592605header.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cache.images.core.optasports.com/news/cricket/2014/8/8/592605header.jpg" /></a>South Africa batsman JP Duminy warned his team against complacency ahead of their one-off Test against Zimbabwe.<br /> <br /> The world's number one-ranked five-day team are hot favourites to win the Test match in Harare starting Saturday.<br /> <br /> Duminy said it would be dangerous for his side to expect a quick finish, urging them to be focused.<br /> <br /> "We are not going to try and win this Test match in three days. If we win the match in the last session of the last day it will still be a job well done," he said.<br /> <br /> "That is the mindset that we have to try and have - focusing on each session and each day, we can't look too far ahead.<br /> <br /> "You have to respect each and every team that you play against.<br /> <br /> "We respect Zimbabwe and by no means are we taking this game lightly, we have to make sure that we put in our best performance."<br /> <br /> South Africa have won six of the seven Tests played between the two nations, including four with an innings to spare.<br /> <br /> Duminy knows favouritism means his team are under pressure.<br /> <br /> "It's another Test match and we are going to have to prepare the same way that we would for any Test match," he said.<br /> <br /> "There is probably more emphasis on this Test match because the pressure will be on us to put in a big performance.<br /> <br /> "We are up for the challenge, it's a representative game for your country so you have to take it seriously."

Duminy news news sports South Africa Zimbabwe Duminy calls for focus

South Africa batsman JP Duminy warned his team against complacency ahead of their one-off Test against Zimbabwe. The world's number on...

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America out to maintain perfect record

<a href="http://cache.images.core.optasports.com/news/soccer/2014/8/8/592625header.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cache.images.core.optasports.com/news/soccer/2014/8/8/592625header.jpg" /></a>America coach Antonio Mohamed says it is "premature" to talk about anything beyond Saturday's trip to Tigres UANL.<br /> <br /> Mohamed's America have made a dream start to the Liga MX Apertura campaign, winning their opening three games to sit two points clear of Atlas and Monterrey atop the table.<br /> <br /> America preserved their 100 per cent record with a 4-0 demolition of Puebla - a result that was sparked by a hat-trick from the competition's leading scorer Raul Jimenez, who has netted four goals in three games.<br /> <br /> But Mohamed is taking nothing for granted against fifth-placed Tigres UANL at the Estadio Universitario de Nuevo Leon - an unhappy stomping ground for the 2013 Apertura champions - having not won in San Nicolas de los Garza since 2009.<br /> <br /> "It's too soon, we had a good start, very forcefully but we have many things to improve," Mohamed told the club's official website.<br /> <br /> "I am really very happy but it is premature to talk about other things than the next game."<br /> <br /> Tigres UANL have also made an unbeaten start to the season, with one win and two draws, including a 4-2 victory over defending champions Leon.<br /> <br /> "What is said before a game is useless, we have to keep proving and improving, the only thing that concerns us is ourselves," the 44-year-old Mohamed said.<br /> <br /> "I do not like review of rivals and I like to focus hard on our team, we have to play football, enjoy and nothing else."<br /> <br /> Rivals Atlas and Monterrey can keep the pressure on America with wins over the weekend.<br /> <br /> Atlas - 4-2 victors against Chiapas last week - are on the road on Sunday, travelling to 12th-placed Pumas UNAM, who have suffered back-to-back defeats.<br /> <br /> Monterrey, who were held to a scoreless draw by Santos Laguna, face winless Veracruz away from home on Friday.<br /> <br /> In other fixtures, Leon will be out to make it two wins on the bounce when they take on Chiapas in a mid-table clash on Saturday.<br /> <br /> Cruz Azul - held to a draw in CONCACAF Champions League action midweek - play host to Puebla on Saturday as they attempt to win their first match of the season.<br /> <br /> Elsewhere on Saturday, Pachuca host Chivas Guadalajara and Santos Laguna go head-to-head with fourth-placed Queretaro.<br /> <br /> Meanwhile, cellar-dwellers Universidad Guadalajara entertain Toluca on Sunday.

America Antonio Mohamed Liga MX news news sports SPORTS UANL America out to maintain perfect record

America coach Antonio Mohamed says it is "premature" to talk about anything beyond Saturday's trip to Tigres UANL. Mohamed&#...

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Valentino Rossi Marquez domination must end

<div> <a href="http://cache.images.core.optasports.com/news/motorsports/2014/8/8/592615header.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cache.images.core.optasports.com/news/motorsports/2014/8/8/592615header.jpg" /></a><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 16.00299835205078px;">Marc Marquez is flying high in MotoGP but Valentino Rossi is determined to end his rival's record-breaking winning streak.</span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 16.00299835205078px;"><br /></span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 16.00299835205078px;">Marquez is the runaway series leader, 77 points clear of Repsol Honda team-mate Dani Pedrosa, having won all nine races in the world championship season.</span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 16.00299835205078px;"><br /></span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 16.00299835205078px;">The 21-year-old's victory at the German Grand Prix last month saw him surpass Mike Hailwood as the youngest rider to win nine consecutive races.</span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 16.00299835205078px;"><br /></span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 16.00299835205078px;">Marquez is now aiming to become the first rider since Australian Mick Doohan to win 10 races in a row, something Yamaha's six-time world champion Rossi wants to prevent at this weekend's Indianapolis MotoGP.</span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 16.00299835205078px;"><br /></span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 16.00299835205078px;">"For Marc it is positive, for us a little bit less," said Rossi, who has finished second behind Marquez on four occasions in 2014 to sit third in the standings with 141 points.</span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 16.00299835205078px;"><br /></span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 16.00299835205078px;">"We have to try to beat him before the end of the championship for sure. It is a big domination, he's done great work, but in some way we have to try to beat him - for us and for the championship."</span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 16.00299835205078px;"><br /></span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 16.00299835205078px;">Rossi's comments were echoed by Nicky Hayden, who has failed to finish on the podium this season.</span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 16.00299835205078px;"><br /></span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 16.00299835205078px;">"Every so often someone comes along and resets the bar. I agree with Valentino - of course it's great what he's doing, but for us we don't want to see one guy win every race because truthfully he's making it look too easy," he said.</span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 16.00299835205078px;"><br /></span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 16.00299835205078px;">"It's not really the case, so I hope somebody can beat him soon. Make us look at little better."</span></span></div>

Marquez MotoGP news SPORTS Valentino Rossi Valentino Rossi Marquez domination must end

Marc Marquez is flying high in MotoGP but Valentino Rossi is determined to end his rival's record-breaking winning streak. Marquez ...

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Genoa pin hopes on Mauricio

<a href="http://cache.images.core.optasports.com/news/soccer/2014/8/7/592089header.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cache.images.core.optasports.com/news/soccer/2014/8/7/592089header.jpg" /></a>Genoa have secured the services of Chile international Mauricio Pinilla from Serie A rivals Cagliari.<br /> <br /> The 30-year-old was part of the national squad that reached the second round of the World Cup in Brazil, before being knocked out on penalties by the hosts.<br /> <br /> Pinilla was almost the hero for his side that day, crashing a shot off the crossbar in extra-time, before missing his spot-kick in the ensuing shootout.<br /> <br /> The forward was also involved in a bust-up with Brazil press officer Rodrigo Paiva during the match, which saw the official banned for three matches.<br /> <br /> Pinilla joined Cagliari from Palermo - initially on loan - in 2012, and scored 22 goals in 63 league appearances during his time at Stadio Is Arenas.<br /> <br /> Genoa announced the news on their official website, while Pinilla took to his Twitter account to declare: "I'm officially a player of @GenoaCFC."

Cagliari football Genoa Serie A soccer Genoa pin hopes on Mauricio

Genoa have secured the services of Chile international Mauricio Pinilla from Serie A rivals Cagliari. The 30-year-old was part of the nati...

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Draxler happy at Schalke

<a href="http://cache.images.core.optasports.com/news/soccer/2014/8/7/592087header.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cache.images.core.optasports.com/news/soccer/2014/8/7/592087header.jpg" /></a>The future of Julian Draxler has been the subject of much speculation over the past year, but the 20-year-old says he is happy at Schalke.<br /> <br /> Draxler has been heavily linked with a number of Premier League clubs, not least Arsenal, and the midfielder revealed he turned down a move to the Emirates Stadium during the January transfer window.<br /> <br /> Despite interest from across Europe, Draxler admits that last season he did not show his full potential when registering only two goals for Schalke.<br /> <br /> However, after signing a new five-year-deal in May and being part of the Germany squad that won the World Cup, the midfielder hopes to put that frustration behind him.<br /> <br /> "I just want to help the team and I want to be one of the leaders. I think I have to show all my qualities," said Draxler.<br /> <br /> "I have to be more dangerous on my position and create more chances. So I think the last season was very important for my development. I had to go through many lows, but this season will be much better."<br /> <br /> Schalke face Tottenham in their final pre-season friendly before starting their domestic campaign with a first-round DFB-Pokal tie against Dynamo Dresden on 18 August.

Draxle football Premier League Schalke soccer Draxler happy at Schalke

The future of Julian Draxler has been the subject of much speculation over the past year, but the 20-year-old says he is happy at Schalke. ...

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