ROJO RECALL
Argentina have recalled Marcus Rojo for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers. Rojo was dropped in November after erratic game time at the start of the season. But an upturn in form and increase in game time has helped Rojo earn an international recall. He was along with keeper Sergio Romero for the qualifiers against Chile and Bolivia. Argentina are currently in 5th spot and may have to go through the playoff route to secure their ticket to Russia.
BALLON D’OR WORTHY
Jose Mourinho was all praise for his superstar striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic and believes that he should win the Ballon D’OR for his performances in England. The Swede has scored 26 goals since signing for United. Despite his 35 years of age, Mourinho reckons that Ibrahimovic is good enough to win the top gong ahead of the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
TIPPED FOR TOP-4
Jamie Redknapp believes that Manchester United will pip Liverpool and Arsenal to the 4th spot in the Premier League this season. United’s form and momentum over the past 3 months will be enough to push them into the top-4. Their improved results combined with Liverpool and Arsenal’s lack of form has closed the gap with the top-4. He also chose Chelsea, Tottenham and Manchester City for the remaining 3 places.
RUNNERS-UP MEDAL TARGETED
Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho conceded the Premier League title to former club Chelsea. He has set his sights on upstaging Liverpool, Arsenal, Manchester City and Tottenham and finishing in second spot in his debut campaign.
ER DIER?
Manchester United are plotting a sensational £35m move for Tottenham midfielder Eric Dier. United last raided Tottenham for Michael Carrick back in 2006 and 11 years on he is still playing top notch football for the Reds. Any move for Dier will be rejected by Spurs chairman Daniel Levy but he may sell for the right price as he has done in the past with Gareth Bale, Luka Modric and Dimitar Berbatov.
CARRICK TESTIMONIAL
Michael Carrick hopes that he can assemble the 2008 Champions League winning squad for his testimonial. Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Tevez have been contacted about playing but Tevez may find himself unavailable because of his involvement in China. Ronaldo may also miss out if Real Madrid qualify for the Champions League final. The final and the testimonial re scheduled just days apart.
BACKUP STRIKER
Manchester United will go all out in their attempts to sign Harry Kane should they fail in their pursuit of Antoine Griezmann. Like with Dier Tottenham will do all in their ability to keep their star-man at White Hart Lane. The move will reportedly cost United in upwards of £65m.