Chelsea confirm Christian Purslow deal

Christian Purslow set for Chelsea role (©GettyImages).

Chelsea have completed a deal to bring former Liverpool managing director Christian Purslow to the club, reports the Daily Star. 

Purslow - who left Anfield in 2011 - has taken the role of the Blues' new head of global commercial activities, as the club go in search of dominance in all areas on and off the pitch.

It appears, then, that as the Chelsea hierarchy look to improve their global image, Purslow will play a huge role in expanding their brand around the world. 

Chelsea certainly believe that the 50-year-old will play a key role in helping them achieve their goals over the coming months and years, as a club statement said: 

"The club believes Mr Purslow has the vision and the leadership qualities to help us achieve these plans."

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Purslow certainly proved his credentials on Merseyside throughout his Anfield tenure, as he initially played a key role in helping generate revenue for the club, before taking up a role as a special advisor and non-executive director. 

It remains to be seen as to how much of an impact he will have at Chelsea over the course of the next couple of years, but it certainly appears that the club are in extremely capable and experienced hands. 

On the pitch 

Chelsea, then, appear to be getting things right off the pitch, whilst the club look formidable on it despite only managing to secure a point at Old Trafford against Manchester United yesterday. 

The Blues looked on course to secure all three points against Louis van Gaal's side yesterday afternoon, before Robin van Persie's late goal spoiled things for Mourinho. However, with the Stamford Bridge outfit currently sitting top of the Premier League, they look a force to be reckoned with this season, and will take some stopping before now and the end of the campaign. 

Chelsea are next in action against Shrewsbury Town in the Capital One Cup tomorrow evening, as the club look to continue their progression in the competition. 

Robin van Persie's love-in with Cesc Fabregas a sickener for Arsenal fans

Ivanovic didn't look too happy with the pre-match embrace (©SkySports).

Manchester United's Sunday showdown with Chelsea has the feeling of a mutual appreciation society before kick-off, with the intensity you would normally expect from a titanic tussle between traditionally fierce rivals definitely lacking in the tunnel just before kick-off.

Former team-mates Cesc Fabregas and Robin van Persie summed up that mood by finding the time to share an embrace prior to the Old Trafford clash, in a moment that will leave a bitter taste in the mouths of Arsenal fans who used to idolise the pair.

Chelsea star Branislav Ivanovic certainly didn't look too impressed with their conduct and sent a scathing scowl in their direction, in a moment captured by the Sky Sports cameras ahead of a 1-1 draw in which Van Persie had the final say.

Love in shows how times have changed

Last weekend's stalemate was just over 10 years on from a far more infamous incident in the Old Trafford tunnel, a food fight between Arsenal and United enemies that saw Fabregas hurl a slice of pizza at Sir Alex Ferguson.

Hugs and kisses between those two sets of players would be almost unthinkable before or after a match, but a decade later and sharing tender moments with the opposition has now become commonplace.

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Tough for Arsenal fans to take

Fabregas and Van Persie continue to show Gunners supporters why their respective acrimonious exits were so difficult to take, both playing a key part in yesterday's latest battle between Chelsea and United.

Van Persie slammed home a vital late equaliser to end a frustrating afternoon in the best fashion possible, which cancelled out a Dider Drogba opener which was created by a pinpoint Fabregas cross.

The Spanish schemer now has eight assists in nine Premier League games this season, quite a haul for a man who Arsene Wenger turned down the chance to re-sign last summer.

After Mario Balotelli's headline-grabbing antics last week the former Gunners team-mates were clever enough not to swap shirts in front of the cameras, but the close friends just had to share a tender moment before the game with a hug that would have been enough for Roy Keane or Patrick Vieira to take instant action in their prime.

Louis van Gaal says Jose Mourinho is a better manager

Van Gaal is still trying to turn things around (©GettyImages).

Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal says he hopes to one day emulate Jose Mourinho - despite the fact that he was the one who gave the Chelsea manager his big break in football.

The Special One worked under Van Gaal at Barcelona after assisting Sir Bobby Robson at the Nou Camp, and has gone on to become one of the most decorated coaches in the game. He helped Chelsea claim back-to-back titles in 2005 and 2006, before leaving to guide Inter Milan to Serie A and Champions League glory.

Winner

He then left to help Real Madrid win the Spanish league title. He also won the Portuguese league title with Porto, making him one of the few coaches to have won league titles in four different countries.

Van Gaal meanwhile has three league titles in three different countries - Spain, Germany and Holland - and will hope to make it four during his time with Manchester United. Before he took over at Old Trafford, Van Gaal spoke glowingly of Mourinho at an award's dinner, saying he was the best in the game.

"He has won titles in a shorter time than me and he has won them in more than three countries" - Van Gaal on Mourinho

Now with Manchester United set to take on Chelsea this afternoon, Van Gaal has reiterated his claim and says he still aspires to be as good as his former employee.

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“Of course I meant that [Mourinho is better]. He has won titles in a shorter time than me and he has won them in more than three countries, Van Gaal said.

“I am next with ­championships in three countries and I want to do that again here, then I’ll be equal. I think he is one of the top trainer-coaches and managers in the world.

“All his teams are always well-organised. I like that and it is why he is a very good ­manager.”

Title race

Manchester United currently sit 10 points off Chelsea, who are at the top of the table having yet to taste defeat in the league. The pair have only gone head-to-head once; in the 2010 Champions League final, when Mourinho's Inter Milan side beat Van Gaal's Bayern Munich 2-0.

"The honourable Howard Webb did not give a penalty to us," the Manchester United boss said.

“That game was the only time we have played against each other. After the match I said ­congratulations to Jose – but not any more than that.”

Mesut Ozil wants to join Manchester City

Mesut Ozil wants to join Manchester City (©GettyImages).

Arsenal playmaker Mesut Ozil is reportedly keen to leave the Gunners for Premier League champions Manchester City when the transfer window re-opens in January.

This is according to reports in Spain - and brought to our attention by the Express - which claim that Manchester City will make a £32 million offer for the Germany international, who is currently sidelined until the New Year with a knee injury.

Ozil has struggled at the Emirates Stadium since completing his £42.4 million transfer from Real Madrid last summer - and has come in for some strong criticism by fans and pundits alike for his below-par performances.

The Express add that Arsenal are understood to be open to offers for the World Cup winner, who is currently going through a high-profile split with girlfriend Mandy Capristo amid claims he cheated on her.

But despite Ozil’s many on and off-field problems, plus his injury, Manchester City are reportedly keen to bring him to the Etihad Stadium in the New Year. Manuel Pellegrini will know all about Ozil’s qualities after coming up against him while managing in both Spain and England, and must feel the former Real Madrid star still has plenty to offer.

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Bayern Munich also keen

Pellegrini isn’t the only coach who feels the same. In recent weeks it’s been claimed that Bayern Munich boss Pep Guardiola is also keen on the idea of signing Ozil in the New Year.

A return to the Bundesliga, where he previously played with Schalke and Werder Bremen, may appeal more than staying in the Premier League, where his career has stalled.

Manchester United v Chelsea: Updated predicted line-ups

Adnan Januzaj could be dropped for Manchester United clash (©GettyImages).

Louis van Gaal and Jose Mourinho have held their pre-match press conferences and kick-off for the eagerly-anticipated Premier League clash between Manchester United and Chelsea is now just one day away.

As a result, we’re able to bring you the updated predicted line-ups for Sunday afternoon’s crunch fixture - and there have been some rather interesting developments.

First of all, Van Gaal has confirmed that Herrera and Di Maria will be fit to face the Blues. That’s a huge boost for the home side, who head into the match as the underdogs against Mourinho’s unbeaten table-toppers.

But in less positive news for the Red Devils, Mourinho has revealed that Costa - despite his persistent hamstring problems and the fact he spent a night in hospital this week with a viral infection - could make a shock appearance this weekend.

Mourinho said Costa has ‘a little chance’ of playing - and by that, we can assume that the Premier League’s current joint-top scorer will be named in Chelsea’s starting line-up, particularly with Loic Remy ruled out with a groin injury.

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Another player who could get the nod is Willian. The Brazil international may be selected ahead of Andre Schurrle, who started upfront in last season’s corresponding fixture between the two Premier League giants at Old Trafford.

Other than that, Chelsea’s team picks itself. The only change Mourinho is forced to make is Felipe Luis in for the suspended Cesar Azpilicueta at left-back.

Man United to make several changes

Manchester United’s starting line-up should also contain few surprises, although there are doubts as to whether Marcos Rojo will partner Phil Jones in central defence. Van Gaal may opt for a taller centre-back, such as Jonny Evans or Chris Smalling.

Adnan Januzaj, who is valued at £40 million, is also expected to drop down the bench following his disappointing performance against West Brom last Monday. Radamel Falcao should partner captain Robin van Persie in attack.

Predicted Man United XI

De Gea; Rafael, Jones, Rojo, Shaw; Blind, Herrera, Di Maria; Mata; Van Persie, Falcao

Predicted Chelsea XI

Courtois; Ivanovic, Terry, Cahill, Luis; Matic, Fabregas; Hazard, Oscar, Willian; Costa

Adnan Januzaj wanted by Ajax

Adnan Januzaj is wanted by Ajax (©GettyImages).

Former Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar has admitted that Ajax would be interested in signing Adnan Januzaj on loan - but fear the Dutch club would not be able to pay the Belgium international’s wages.

Van der Sar, who now works with Ajax as a director following his retirement in 2011, was asked by Belgian newspaper HLN whether the Eredivisie outfit would be interested in taking Manchester United’s number 11 to the Amsterdam Arena for the second half of the 2014-15 campaign.

Van der Sar responded by saying: "Well, if you have the number of his agent: give it me with confidence. But I fear that we can't pay his salary."

Januzaj struggling under Van Gaal

Januzaj, who rose to prominence last season under the management of David Moyes, has struggled for minutes under Louis van Gaal this term. The 19-year-old made his first Premier League start of the campaign against West Brom last Monday night, but failed to make an impact on the game.

Van Gaal is not expected to name Januzaj in his starting line-up for Sunday’s Premier League clash against Chelsea. Indeed, the teenager may struggle for first-team opportunities between now and the New Year - with increasing speculation that United will allow him to go out on loan until the end of the season.

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United fans want Januzaj to stay

Januzaj is widely considered one of the most promising young players in Europe and a host of clubs - possibly including - would be interested in signing the £40 million-rated starlet on a short-term deal if Van Gaal chooses to send him out on loan.

Ajax have an advantage as they’re one of the clubs that Van Gaal previously managed earlier in his coaching career and, more importantly, trusts to aid the development of gifted young players like Januzaj.

But Manchester United supporters will be hoping the veteran Dutch coach can find a place for Januzaj in his team - fearing that, if his current situation continues, the Belgian may begin to consider a permanent move away from Old Trafford.

Victor Valdes rejects contract offer from Manchester United

Valdes was invited to train with Manchester United. (©GettyImages).

Manchester United have been left stunned after Victor Valdes rejected the chance to join the club on a short-term deal, reports Metro.

Citing reports from Spain, the British tabloid claim that the former Barcelona goalkeeper, who is currently a free agent, is not interested in joining Manchester United to be understudy to David de Gea.

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Cancelled deals

Louis van Gaal was ready to offer Valdes the chance to regain his fitness at Old Trafford as he continues to recover from a serious knee injury. That knee injury has seen transfers to both Monaco and Liverpool fall through.

Both clubs were unconvinced by the 32-year-old's level of fitness with the former cancelling a pre-contract that had been agreed while Valdes was still at Barcelona. Now battling to return to fitness, Van Gaal gave Valdes to perfect chance to regain his form.

He also appeared close to joining Liverpool earlier this season on a free contract as Brendan Rodgers grew doubtful over Simon Mignolet. However, the Reds walked away from a deal after Valdes failed to convince them that he was ready to be their first choice goalkeeper.

Training

The Dutchman gave Valdes the opportunity to train with Manchester United at their Carrington training ground until he can find a new team. Van Gaal share a close relationship with the Spaniard having originally given him his debut at Barcelona 12 years ago.

Valdes will work on his fitness with Manchester United but it appears he will not sign a short term deal with the club. Instead, he will look for a deal where he can go straight into the first team.

Competition

Obviously, Valdes was not ready to spend what should be his prime years as an understudy to someone almost ten years his junior. De Gea has thoroughly impressed this year despite Manchester United's less than impressive defensive record and doesn't look likely to be dropped in the near future.

Valdes would no doubt become the second choice behind Anders Lindegaard but that doesn't appear to be good enough to convince him to become a Manchester United player.

Arsenal close to signing Mile Svilar

Arsenal are close to signing the new Courtois (©GettyImages).

Arsenal are closing in on the signing of Anderlecht goalkeeper Mile Svilar, who is also wanted by Manchester United and Chelsea, and has been compared to his Belgian compatriot Thibaut Courtois.

This is according to the Metro, who cite Belgian newspaper Nieuwsblad as confirming that the highly-rated 15-year-old is a top transfer target for the Gunners.

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Arsenal to invite Svilar to north London

Arsenal want Svilar, who has previously been trialled by Chelsea, to join their Under-18 team in the New Year and are planning for the teenager to come to north London for a look around the club's training complex ahead of a potential move to the Emirates Stadium.

If successful in their pursuit, Svilar's signature would represent a major coup for the Gunners. Youth coaches in Belgium have hailed the youngster as the most talented keeper they've seen at his age since Courtois who, at 22, is already arguably the world's best player in his position.

Svilar played against Arsenal this week

Svilar, who turned 15 in August, played against Arsenal for Anderlecht in the Under-19 Champions League earlier this week. And while he conceded three goals on the night - Anderlecht still secured a 4-3 victory - it was not a display that would have harmed his chances of sealing a move to the Gunners or any other interested club.

Despite his immense talent and potential, it will still be a few years before Svilar is ready to play Premier League football for Arsenal. Arsene Wenger may decide to use the young keeper in the same way Chelsea used Courtois after signing him from Genk in 2011.

Will Arsenal use Svilar like Chelsea used Courtois?

The Blues sent Courtois out on loan to Atletico Madrid for three consecutive seasons - and the 6ft 6in shot-stopper cemented his status as one of Europe's best during his immensely successful spell at the Vicente Calderon.

The main reason Chelsea opted against using Courtois sooner was because Petr Cech was still at his peak, but Jose Mourinho knew he had to make the switch this season with the former's contract edging closer to its expiry date.

Whether Arsenal adopt a similar approach will depend on the form of their current number one, Wojciech Szczesny, over who doubts still persist.

The Gunners have lacked a reliable, first-class goalkeeper since David Seaman - Jens Lehmann was talented but temperamental - and Svilar, if the hype is to be believed, could be the man Arsenal have been crying out for for years.

Zoran Tosic reveals Manchester United regret

Zoran Tosic in action against Manchester City. (©GettyImages).

CSKA Moscow winger Zoran Tosic admits he might have left Manchester United a little too hastily, after pushing for an Old Trafford exit four years ago when it became clear he wasn't guaranteed regular action.

The Daily Mail carries quotes from the Serbia international who spoke glowingly about being signed by the Red Devils in 2009, in the build-up to his side's Champions League encounter against Manchester City in the behind closed doors clash at Arena Khimkion on Tuesday.

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Tosic was picked up by Sir Alex Ferguson at the age of 21, catching the former Manchester United manager's eye after scoring 18 goals in 61 matches for Partizan Belgrade.

The Premier League giants agreed to pay £7 million for the attacking midfielder's services, but failed to offer him enough significant game time to prove he could succeed in England's top-flight.

Restricted to just five first-team appearances which totalled just 79 minutes of competitive action, Tosic was swiftly sent out on loan to Germany where he enjoyed a brief spell with Bundesliga outfit Cologne.

Upon his return to Manchester the situation hadn't changed, with a certain Cristiano Ronaldo occupying his favoured position out wide, resulting in a permanent transfer to Russia in the summer of 2010, just 18 months after joining the Premier League giants from his native Serbia.

"It all happened really quickly as I played for just 18 months with Partizan Belgrade," Tosic reflected. "We won the league and the cup and there was a period when it seemed like I was scoring in every match.

"It was at that point I signed for Manchester United. It was such an exciting moment to go there and to meet Sir Alex.

"I had grown up as a United fan so to be working for the man who had brought so much success to the club was just unbelievable.

"However, there is a big difference between the Serbian and English league and when I arrived in Manchester I discovered I was not yet ready for that level.

"I spoke with Sir Alex many times and he kept telling me I had quality and just had to keep working hard. But I wanted to play more games so went to Cologne in Germany on loan and had a great six months there.

"When I came back to Manchester I was expecting to play more games for United but it didn't happen. In the end I wasn't sure I was going to get the chance I felt I deserved so decided to change club.

Transfer regret?

"Even now I am always thinking about that moment. Maybe I shouldn't have been so quick and should have worked longer to show Sir Alex. Maybe I should have stayed and fought for my place. This was Man United after all."

Despite the regret that Tosic holds regarding his failed stint at Manchester United, he's established himself as a star performer in the Russian Premier League, and scored 33 goals in 150 games for CSKA Moscow over the past five years.

Leonid Slutsky knows just how important the 27-year-old is to his current team, and he'll have an integral role to play if the club are going to have any chance of advancing to the knockout stage of the Champions League.

CSKA are currently rock bottom of Group E with just one point from their opening three games, which came courtesy of a 2-2 draw with Manchester City on Tuesday. But, with Bayern Munich and AS Roma also in the same pot, they're facing an uphill struggle to progress, and know they'll need victory from their next game at the Etihad Stadium on November 5.

Marco Reus wants €230,000-a-week salary to leave Borussia Dortmund

Reus is reportedly available for €25m, but who will take advantage? (©GettyImages).

Borussia Dortmund star Marco Reus expects to earn a whopping €12 million per year if any club activates his much-discussed €25m release clause next summer, a salary that Manchester United have proved over the last 12 months they're willing to pay to make sure world-class talent keeps arriving at Old Trafford.

German tabloid Bild reports that Reus may have to compromise on that lofty €230,000-a-week salary request if he wants to become the latest Dortmund star to make a controversial switch to Bayern Munich though, citing the example of a breakdown in contract talks between the Bavarian giants and Toni Kroos last summer.

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Bayern chief executive Karl-Heinz Rumennige's comments on interest in Reus has once again left Dortmund facing the stark possibility that another of their top stars might leave for the Allianz Arena, the third in successive seasons.

Mario Gotze and Robert Lewandowski have already made the contentious switch across the Bundesliga and Reus could be next, but Bayern would have to put the wing wizard on a par with top earner Franck Ribery in a long-term deal to make the move happen.

Bayern are fierce negotiators, will that proven an obstacle?

Rummenigge and co. have proven in the past that they won't always budge to give their current stars six-figure contracts if they don't feel Bayern's budget can handle big wages, with Toni Kroos the most relevant recent example.

Kroos wanted a contract extension on vastly improved terms last season as reward for his excellent form, but Bayern decided they couldn't afford it and reluctantly allowed the classy playmaker to sign for Real Madrid.

Bayern are acutely aware that at 31 and 30 respectively Ribery and Robben will need to be replaced in the very near future, which means that despite having Xherdan Shaqiri waiting in the wings they are actively looking at the possibility of signing a new winger.

Premier League interest is strong

There is of course an alternative to the dreaded Bayern switch that Dortmund fans could probably learn to live with, sell Reus to the Premier League if he truly has his heart set on a fresh challenge next season.

Dortmund's shocking start to the season may well have accelerated that process, but interest from Arsenal, Manchester United & Liverpool is genuine and all three teams would love to add the vibrant forward to their ranks, particularly for a bargain €25m.

You have to put United in pole position to seal a deal out of those three teams once you factor that massive €230,000-a-week wage demand into transfer talks though, because deals for Angel di Maria, Robin van Persie and Wayne Rooney's latest extension have proved the Red Devils will pay a premium to world-class talent.

Arsenal have never paid more than £200,000-a-week to a player in the club's history, with top earners Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez falling some way short of that mark.

Liverpool meanwhile have a wage structure in place that they probably wouldn't break, even for a player of considerable calibre like Reus.

This transfer tussle has some way to run, but despite Arsene Wenger being a huge admirer of the 25-year-old it looks like a straight shootout between Bayern and United for one of European football's hottest properties when the current campaign draws to a close.

Angel di Maria concerns Manchester United with dead leg

Di Maria left the field with a groin complaint. (©GettyImages).

Manchester United may have been left sweating on the fitness of Angel di Maria after the winger was seen holding an ice pack to his groin after being substituted in the game against West Bromwich Albion.

Di Maria was one of the more impressive performers for Manchester United at the Hawthorns on Monday night, but was forced off in the 76th minute with the Red Devils still trailing 2-1. Daley Blind eventually equalised in the 87th minute, by which time Di Maria was already nursing his injury on the bench.

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Discomfort

The Mail reported that Di Maria was in obvious discomfort as he took his seat on the bench and the physio was sent to wrap his leg with the ice pack. Ahead of the crunch clash against Chelsea next weekend, there was immediate concern over Di Maria's availability for the game.

Di Maria is likely to be key to Van Gaal's plans to stop the table-toppers from continuing their scintillating form. Chelsea are currently five points clear at the top of the Premier League and a win at Old Trafford would take them 13 points clear of United.

Confident

However, according to Goal, Manchester United are confident that the Argentinian will be fit to face Jose Mourinho's unbeaten side when they travel to Old Trafford on Sunday.

The report claims that Di Maria suffered a dead leg and was withdrawn by Van Gaal as a precaution. The 26-year-old set to undergo a scan at Manchester United's Carrington training ground but expect him to recover in time to face Chelsea.

Great form

Di Maria has been in sensational form since joining from Real Madrid in the summer. The winger cost Manchester United £59.7 million in a transfer fee and now earns a reported £280,000-a-week.

In just five Premier League games, Di Maria has scored three goals and assisted four. His latest effort was to set up Marouane Fellaini for the equaliser on Monday night.

Peter Biaksangzuala dies after somersault celebration

Indian player dies after celebration disaster .

Peter Biaksangzuala has tragically died after attempting a somersault goal celebration for Indian side Bethlehem Vengthlang FC, reports the Metro.

The 23-year-old found the net in the 62nd minute against Chanmari West FC last week, and opted to perform an acrobatic celebration. This, to the shock of his teammates, went horribly wrong as he landed on his head, which resulted in him being taken to hospital. 

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Disaster 

Ultimately, though, Biaksangzuala lost his life in the local hospital on Sunday morning after damaging his spinal cord. 

A source said: "He was trying to do Germany’s Klose signature flip stunt, but it misfired unfortunately."

The outcome of the incident will certainly bring shock to the footballing community of India, with the potential consequences of celebrations surely being looked at in closer detail over the coming weeks and months. 

The video of the celebration can be seen below, with the incident taking place after 2:30 minutes. 

Miroslav Klose 

Miroslav Klose, of course, is just one of a number of footballing stars who has attempted a somersault celebration after scoring a goal in recent years. The legendary German striker is not the only one, however, with the the likes of Nani, Obafemi Martins and Co. having all wowed crowds in recent time.

Perhaps, then, there shouldn't be a place for somersaults on the football pitch after this disastrous incident. 

Lionel Messi ignores Enrique's substitution request

Messi wanted to stay on the pitch (©GettyImages).

Lionel Messi has been criticised for holding too much power at Barcelona, and this substitution incident from Barca's game against Eibar has been used as proof against him.

The Argentinian superstar waves off Barca coach Luis Enrique's request to substitute him with 10 minutes remaining against Eibar at the weekend.

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Enrique shouted over to Messi, who gave him the thumbs up and walked away - he wanted to carry on playing.

Enrique had obviously planned to give Messi a rest, with Barca cruising at 3-0 up at the Nou Camp. But he loves to play every minute of every game, so Enrique, rather than substitute him anyway, decided to take off Neymar instead.

The manager didn't look too upset at this very visible show of player power, and after the game Enrique said: "I trust what Messi tells me."

And while Messi has been criticised for disobeying his manager, the four-time Ballon d'Or winner should be applauded for wanting to continue playing.

If this incident and the Raheem Sterling 'tiredness' debate show one thing, it's that you can't win. Players aren't trusted to know their own bodies, rather a judgement must be cast - you may be lazy or you may be obnoxious, but surely you can't be right.

As for the match itself, Barcelona recorded their seventh league win in eight La Liga matches at the weekend, as Xavi, Neymar and Messi found the target in a comfortable win.

And it was another clean sheet for Enrique's side, who have now gone all eight La Liga matches without conceding a goal this season - a remarkable feat for a team that wobbled defensively last term.

Juan Mata and Ander Herrera face off in intense crossbar challenge

Mata..

The fabled crossbar challenge - a game that any budding footballer would have played a thousand times over.

But what happens when professionals challenge each other to what should be, for them at least, such an easy activity? Well, luckily for us, Manchester United stars Juan Mata and Ander Herrera have answered that question, by facing off against each other on the training ground.

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The result is a game that literally goes right down to the last kick, with Mata shading it by a hair after his teammate lets him back into it.

The mercurial left-footer and his compatriot, who was signed by Louis van Gaal from Athletic Bilbao earlier this summer, take it in turns to try and hit the bar, with it initially being a first-to-three-wins arrangement.

Yet despite the fact Herrera went 1-0 and then 2-1 up against Mata, it was the latter who threatened to snatch victory after flipping the scores to make it 3-2. Not to go out with a whimper however Herrera hit back with his final shot to make it 3-3, taking it to a sudden death.

The subsequent round proves Mata, who takes home around £150k-a-week, is the king of cool. Watch the action here...



The video will also given United fans a welcoming boost, as it appears Herrera is all but over the injury which had threatened to keep him sidelined for the foreseeable future. Whether or not he'll feature in the fixture against West Brom this Monday remains to be seen, but his chances have certainly been boosted.

Louis van Gaal regrets his 'stupid’ mistake over three month deadline

Van Gaal wishes he never gave himself the three month deadline (©GettyImages).

Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal has admitted he made a ‘stupid’ mistake when he gave himself a three-month assessment deadline.

Upon taking charge at Old Trafford over the summer, the new United boss asked the media to give him three months before passing judgement on his methods.

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But after a shaky start to the season with home defeats and embarrassing results like the 5-3 defeat to newly promoted Leicester, van Gaal has conceded that he regrets making the statement.

Speaking to MUTV, Van Gaal said: “It was my stupid fault I think, that I mentioned a period, exactly there months. So now I have to answer a lot of questions about the three months.

“I believe in my philosophy and Manchester United has belief in that philosophy. Because of that I’m here. It maybe needs more time. Maybe the match against West Brom is the start of a new period.”

Manchester United take on West Brom on Monday evening, as the Old Trafford giants look to close the gap to leaders Chelsea.

It was my stupid fault I think, that I mentioned a period, exactly there months - Louis van Gaal

Currently sitting in fourth place, United have a tough run of fixtures to come with games against Chelsea and Manchester City on the horizon. They are currently eight points behind Jose Mourinho’s side after seven games.

United’s squad has returned from the international break with a relatively clean bill of health, which is good news for van Gaal as he’s not had the best of luck with injuries so far.

Problems remain in central defence, where he’s had to rely on the likes of Paddy McNair and Tyler Blackett this season but United will be fancied to pick up three points at the Hawthorns.

Wellington Silva reveals he will be eligible to play for Arsenal

Wellington Silva says he will play for Arsenal (©GettyImages).

Brazilian forward Wellington Silva has confirmed that his work permit nightmare is almost at an end - and that he will return to Arsenal by obtaining a European passport instead.

The 21-year-old, who joined Arsenal in 2011, has been unable to make a single appearance for the Gunners after the Football Association backtracked on their initial decision to hand the winger a “special talent visa”. The former Fluminense star has spent the last few years out on loan instead, and is currently with La Liga outfit Almeria.

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However, speaking to Globo Esporte, Silva is optimistic that the situation will finally - after a three-year struggle - be resolved in the near future.

“It was not as I expected, but things are starting to move again,” he said. “It was tough enough, but now with the passport I can have a chance to return to Arsenal. Doors now open at any country in Europe. Now more people are watching, including Arsenal themselves.”

Silva targeting idol status at Arsenal

Silva acknowledges the fact that he is a long way off establishing himself in the Arsenal first team, but would love to emulate the likes of Thierry Henry and Robert Pires by becoming a Gunners’ idol.

"I'm very excited for the passport soon,” he added. “In two months it's ready, and the opportunities become larger. I am very happy that things are starting to happen.

"I would be very happy if I could be an idol at a club like Arsenal, but I can no longer think about it, it depends on a lot of work. But I'm working to improve my game, my experience. And I will give my best so I can be a great player. Need to think of Almeria, which is also in a tough league. I want to have a great season here so that Arsenal can see."

"I would be very happy if I could be an idol at a club like Arsenal." - Wellington Silva.

Can Wenger fit him in?

Silva has made four appearances for Almeria so far this season, but is still looking for his first goal. The former Brazil Under-17 international scored three goals in 38 appearances for Murcia last season, and three in 20 for Ponferradina - in the Spanish second tier - in the previous campaign.

The South American has also had spell with Levante and Alconyano since completing his move to Arsenal, but now hopes this latest development will finally allow him to return to England once his loan deal with Almeria expires.

Silva is certainly a player of considerable promise; however, he faces an extremely difficult task to force his way into Arsenal’s starting line-up, with competition fierce at the Emirates Stadium.

An attack-minded right-sided winger by trade, Silva would be behind both Theo Walcott and Alexis Sanchez in the pecking order. But if he obtains his EU passport in the coming weeks, there’s a chance Arsene Wenger will run the rule over the Brazilian in pre-season before deciding how to use him in the 2015-16 campaign.

[Quotes translated by Sport Witness].

Dani Alves agrees Manchester United move - FIFA agent

Dani Alves has agreed to join Manchester United (©GettyImages).

Barcelona full-back Dani Alves has reached an agreement to join Manchester United at the end of the season, according to FIFA agent Francois Gallardo.

The 31-year-old is out of contract next summer and recently told reporters that he would be playing his football in England next season. This was followed up by reports claiming the Brazil international had performed a U-turn and would be extending his contract with the Catalan giants, who are banned from buying any new players until January 2016.

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Gallardo: Alves will join Man United

However, Gallardo - who, it must be noted, doesn’t have the best track record when it comes to predicting future transfers - insists that Alves will join the Red Devils in time for the start of the 2015-16 campaign.

"The player will leave Barcelona next season,” Gallardo revealed on Spanish television show Neox, according to the Express. “He has signed a preliminary agreement with Manchester United."

Chelsea and Liverpool set for disappointment

Alves, who has won every major trophy since joining Barcelona from Sevilla in 2008, has also been strongly linked with moves to Chelsea and Liverpool over the past few weeks. But if Gallardo’s information is accurate, then United’s Premier League rivals are set to be left disappointed.

Whether Manchester United require an ageing full-back is debatable. The Red Devils already have one Brazilian right-back in their ranks - Rafael, who is seven years younger than his compatriot and a firm favourite at Old Trafford.

Rafael didn’t enjoy his best season last term under the management of David Moyes, and while there have been a few hiccups this season - including his dismal display in the 5-3 defeat against Leicester City - overall he’s impressed.

Alves and agent unhappy with Barcelona

Alves and his agent, Dinorah Santana, are unhappy that Barcelona have not approached them with a new contract offer and admitted earlier this week that they will consider their options together over the next few months.

"If the club [Barcelona] wanted to renew Alves they would have done it already. I would not do things they way they have,” Santana commented.”We will leave the suitors until December or January... then we'll decide who to marry."

Alves to earn £96,000-a-week?

It was reported last month that Manchester United would need to pay Alves a £5 million-a-year (£96,000-a-week) salary to bring him to Old Trafford. The South American, despite his advancing years, remains an excellent full-back - but because of the physical demands of the position he plays in, the Red Devils will do well to get anything more than three years out of him.

Once again, though, it should be noted that Gallardo is the person providing this information - so we wouldn’t recommend any Manchester United fan to hold their breath just yet.

Arsenal starlet Jack Jebb opts for loan move to Stevenage

Jebb has been labelled the next David Beckham. (©GettyImages).

Arsenal youngster Jack Jebb has left the club to join Stevenage after agreeing a one month loan deal with the League Two outfit.

The Gunners hope that the short loan spell will allow Jebb to gain some valuable first team experience after playing a key role for the Under-19 teams last season.

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Next David Beckham

Jebb, 19, hit the headlines in March this year after The Independent labelled him as the 'New David Beckham' because of his exceptional ability from set pieces. Having scored a number of goals from free-kicks, it is easy to see why the comparison was made.

He was a staple for Arsenal's Under-18 and Under-19 side last season and has also represented England at Under-16 and Under-17 levels. Arsenal's official website describe Jebb's style as similar to that of Arsenal youth product and first team star Jack Wilshere.

Controversy

Despite his short career, the midfielder has already hit headlines for the wrong reasons. Jebb was banned for four matches and fined £1,800 by the FA for using racist language towards an opponent against Norwich last year.

"Everyone at Arsenal wishes Jack well for his time at Broadhall Way." - Arsenal's official website

Jebb denied the charge and Norwich did not launch a complaint. The investigation was born out of an official report from the match officials. Despite the controversy, Arsene Wenger stuck by Jebb and chose to retain him while other former scholars, like the highly rated Chuks Aneke, were released.

Uphill battle

Although Jebb clearly has potential, he faces an uphill battle if he is to succeed at Arsenal. While he is still young at 19-years-old, playing League Two football proves how far he is behind the likes of Hector Bellerin and Calum Chambers, who are the same age and playing first team football. Wilshere also broke into the team at 18-years-old.

However, he did make his debut for the Under-21 side last season and lit up the Emirates Stadium in a man of the match performances against Everton in the FA Youth Cup.

He clearly has potential, but is running out of time to prove he can make it at the top level. He will certainly have to impress at Stevenage if he is to get back into the manager's plans.

Manchester United must fight to keep Marcus Rashford

Manchester United must keep Marcus Rashford.

Marcus Rashford doesn’t turn 17 until October 31, but the Manchester United starlet is already making waves in the Red Devils’ youth ranks. Named as United’s best young talent by the Guardian earlier this month, we take a closer look at why this kid has been tipped to make it to the top.

It always makes things a little easier if you’re a local lad and support the club, which is handy for Rashford, who was born and raised in Manchester and grew up as a United fan. Old Trafford officials will be hoping the teenager’s love for United will encourage him to continue his development with the 20-time English champions, rather than moving elsewhere. But a host of top clubs are reportedly keen to sign him.

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City, Arsenal and Chelsea want him

Back in May, it was reported that Manchester City had desires to lure Rashford away from Old Trafford to the Etihad Stadium. United had failed to tie the talented teen down to a long-term contract - because of wages - and ran the risk of losing him to their fierce local rivals.

Chelsea and Arsenal were also sniffing around the midfielder, who United believe is most comfortable playing in the playmaker role, but for the time being he remains with his boyhood club.

Is Rashford the next Pogba?

Although Manchester United class him as a striker on their official website, Rashford has a tendency to drop deep into midfield, as this compilation video against Liverpool from earlier this year demonstrates.

His style of play, in many ways, bares similarities to that of former Manchester United youngster Paul Pogba, who left Old Trafford in 2012 after failing to establish himself in the club’s first team under Sir Alex Ferguson.

Rashford is not blessed with the same rangy physique as Pogba, who is now widely regarded as the best young central midfielder in world football, but his close control is superb, he can dribble and play a pass.

"But, as with all potential, the big question is how hard to Manchester-born boy is willing to work to realise the dream." - Jamie Jackson, Guardian.

Van Gaal must tie Rashford down to long-term deal

If he is blessed with half the talent of Pogba, then Manchester United must fight tooth and nail to keep him at Old Trafford. Ferguson’s failure to tie Pogba down to a long-term contract will be remembered as one of the biggest mistakes of his 26-year tenure, and Louis van Gaal can ill-afford to make the same mistake with Rashford.

Whether or not he fulfils his immense potential could ultimately come down to his attitude and hunger to develop and improve. So many talented young footballers fall by the wayside because they lack the required mentality to become a top professional - so it’s down to Rashford to decide whether he becomes the next Pogba, or the next Ravel Morrison.

Nicklas Bendtner: I've always had a healthy humility

Nicklas Bendtner is a colourful character. (©GettyImages).

Former Arsenal striker Nicklas Bendtner insists he's not been phased by recent career struggles, and although he's yet to get off the mark at Wolfsburg remains confident he'll hit the goalscoring trail soon.

In an interview with Danish newspaper BT ahead of his country's Euro 2016 qualifier against Portugal, the 26-year-old spoke positively about his hopes and aspirations for the future after taking up a new challenge in the Bundesliga.

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Colourful character

Bendtner proved to be an unpopular figure among Arsenal supporters as his cocksure attitude frequently failed to match his contribution on the pitch, and Arsene Wenger eventually gave up on the player, resulting in a free transfer departure from the Emirates Stadium in the summer.

The Denmark international spent a large portion of his Gunners career away from north London, taking in a loan spell in Italy with Juventus as well as a period on Wearside with Sunderland.

Both stints were character building for various reasons and have helped shape Bendtner into the modest and unassuming person he is today, arguing that his personality is in fact vastly different to the public perception in England.

Nicklas Bendtner quote:

"I think I've always had a healthy humility," he explained. "It may well be that I have not always shown it, but I think it's always been fine.

"The situation in Juventus was that I played 10 matches and got injured, and I didn't play again that season. Then I went back to Arsenal, but managed to score two goals in a few appearances.

"Then I didn't play in the last six months, and now I have started at a new club where you naturally have to get used to it all. For me it is normal to need some time.

"When I was at Sunderland I was top scorer, had played fine with the national team and had played a great club season and had many great clubs to choose from.

Justification

"I chose Juventus, where the injury of course happened, and so there was all this b******* at Arsenal, as they would neither sell me nor let me play.

"I could not do anything about, so it's a different situation, and I think I have developed both as a player and person in all that time."

With just 47 goals in 171 senior appearances during his ill-fated spell at Arsenal, it's clear that Bendtner still has everything to prove to his new set of supporters in Germany.

His last competitive goal came in the Premier League on January 1 when the Gunners ran out 2-0 winners against Cardiff City, but the self-assured marksman is keeping faith in his own ability to rediscover his best form at the Volkswagen Arena.