April 18
That brings an end to today's activity on the Sky Sports Transfer Clockwatch. Join us again on Friday morning as we continue to bring you all of the latest news and speculation.
23:11
Everton boss Roberto Martinez has expressed his delight at seeing Tim Howard pen a new contract at Goodison Park which will take him through to 2018.
It is fantastic news. To have Tim Howard performing as he has been this season, I cannot see past him to choose the best goalkeeper in the league.
22:59
With Yeovil currently sat bottom of the Championship standings, five points from safety, manager Gary Johnson has been explaining his decision to recall forward Sam Foley from a loan spell at Shrewsbury Town.
22:52
Chris Cohen believes he, and every other member of the Nottingham Forest squad, must prove themselves to incoming boss Stuart Pearce.
Hopefully I will be in his plans and he will want me to be part of his team. That is the first part. We all start with a clean slate. We all have to prove ourselves again, that is the thing with a new manager.
22:32
American goalkeeper Tim Howard has agreed a contract extension at Everton.
Everton
@Everton
BREAKING: Tim Howard signs contract extension until 2018. #WeAreEvertonians http://pbs.twimg.com/media/BldDBPVCMAEqaG7.jpg" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
Apr. 17, 2014ReplyRetweetFavorite
22:31
A representative of Iago Aspas, Jose Rodriguez Baster, has refuted any suggestion that Liverpool may look to cash-in on the striker this summer and allow him to return to his native Spain.
There is no possibility of a return to Spain for Iago, or for a move elsewhere. Iago has a four-year contract with Liverpool and he is happy to be at the Reds, aside from the fact that he would certainly like to play more. But Rodgers is happy with him and they are not thinking about a transfer.
22:03
Jimmy Kebe will see out the season at Leeds United, with his loan deal set to be completed despite picking up an injury. The winger linked up with the Whites in January from Crystal Palace.
Football Transfer Centre
Re: Football Transfer Centre
April 21
That's it for today from the Sky Sports Transfer Clockwatch. Join us again on Monday morning as we continue to bring you all of the latest news and speculation.
23:03
Tottenham head coach Tim Sherwood hopes the club can keep hold of Christian Eriksen in the summer. Eriksen has been one of the few shining lights in a disappointing season for Spurs, continuing his fine form with two assists as Fulham were overcome 3-1 on Saturday.
You are always fearful that someone might come and take one of your best players and Christian is certainly one.
22:48
Hertha Berlin will look to make Per Ciljan Skjelbred's loan deal permanent at the end of the campaign. The Norway international made a switch from Bundesliga rivals Hamburg last summer on a season-long agreement. Hertha are also planning on offering fresh terms to experienced Cameroon international Marcel Ndjeng.
22:22
The agent of Lazio striker Keita Balde Diao claims his client is close to agreeing a contract extension. The 19-year-old has burst onto the scene this season, netting four goals in 21 appearances. Ulisse Savini told RadioMana Mana:
We are very, very close to signing Keita's renewal. There are a few small things that need to be agreed, but I think a signature will be on the contract just after Easter.
22:09
Cruzeiro midfielder Nilton has played down reports linking him with a summer move to Serie A giants Inter Milan. Speculation in Italy has suggested that a deal for the 26-year-old will be pushed through at the end of the European season.
21:32
David Moyes insists Danny Welbeck has an important role to play at Manchester United despite speculation the striker wants to leave Old Trafford.
There have been lots of stories. I can only tell you Danny Welbeck is really important to me and really important to Manchester United.
21:13
Chelsea are poised to hand a two-week trial to Chilean goalkeeper Felipe Ochagavia, who currently plays for O'Higgins. The Blues have raided the South American club for promising talent in the past, with the services of teenage left-back Cristian Cuevas secured in the summer of 2013.
21:09
The agent of Fiorentina playmaker Josip Ilicic claims his client could be acquired for the right price this summer, with the Viola ready to cut their losses on a 9million euros signing from Palermo. Bernardo Brovarone told Radio Blu:
I think the price that Fioretina paid for Josip could be their only mistake. But if someone came in with 7million or so, then maybe that would be taken into consideration by the hierarchy.
20:30
Spanish publication El Confidencial reports that Atletico Madrid are planning a summer swoop for Torino striker Ciro Immobile. Atletico are expecting to lose Diego Costa when the transfer window re-opens - with Chelsea heavily linked - and are in the process of lining up a replacement.
20:24
Atletico Mineiro president Alexandre Kalil has said that he is considering taking Nicolas Anelka to FIFA. The 35-year-old had failed to report to the Brazilian club despite agreeing to a move on a free transfer after being released by West Bromwich Albion in March.
19:37
David Moyes claims work is already underway at Manchester United to ensure that their summer rebuilding project has them in a position to fare considerably better in their second campaign under his guidance than they have in his first.
We've already done that and we're doing that behind the scenes just now. We'll try and do everything we possibly can to get a team which is capable of winning better than we have done recently.
That's it for today from the Sky Sports Transfer Clockwatch. Join us again on Monday morning as we continue to bring you all of the latest news and speculation.
23:03
Tottenham head coach Tim Sherwood hopes the club can keep hold of Christian Eriksen in the summer. Eriksen has been one of the few shining lights in a disappointing season for Spurs, continuing his fine form with two assists as Fulham were overcome 3-1 on Saturday.
You are always fearful that someone might come and take one of your best players and Christian is certainly one.
22:48
Hertha Berlin will look to make Per Ciljan Skjelbred's loan deal permanent at the end of the campaign. The Norway international made a switch from Bundesliga rivals Hamburg last summer on a season-long agreement. Hertha are also planning on offering fresh terms to experienced Cameroon international Marcel Ndjeng.
22:22
The agent of Lazio striker Keita Balde Diao claims his client is close to agreeing a contract extension. The 19-year-old has burst onto the scene this season, netting four goals in 21 appearances. Ulisse Savini told RadioMana Mana:
We are very, very close to signing Keita's renewal. There are a few small things that need to be agreed, but I think a signature will be on the contract just after Easter.
22:09
Cruzeiro midfielder Nilton has played down reports linking him with a summer move to Serie A giants Inter Milan. Speculation in Italy has suggested that a deal for the 26-year-old will be pushed through at the end of the European season.
21:32
David Moyes insists Danny Welbeck has an important role to play at Manchester United despite speculation the striker wants to leave Old Trafford.
There have been lots of stories. I can only tell you Danny Welbeck is really important to me and really important to Manchester United.
21:13
Chelsea are poised to hand a two-week trial to Chilean goalkeeper Felipe Ochagavia, who currently plays for O'Higgins. The Blues have raided the South American club for promising talent in the past, with the services of teenage left-back Cristian Cuevas secured in the summer of 2013.
21:09
The agent of Fiorentina playmaker Josip Ilicic claims his client could be acquired for the right price this summer, with the Viola ready to cut their losses on a 9million euros signing from Palermo. Bernardo Brovarone told Radio Blu:
I think the price that Fioretina paid for Josip could be their only mistake. But if someone came in with 7million or so, then maybe that would be taken into consideration by the hierarchy.
20:30
Spanish publication El Confidencial reports that Atletico Madrid are planning a summer swoop for Torino striker Ciro Immobile. Atletico are expecting to lose Diego Costa when the transfer window re-opens - with Chelsea heavily linked - and are in the process of lining up a replacement.
20:24
Atletico Mineiro president Alexandre Kalil has said that he is considering taking Nicolas Anelka to FIFA. The 35-year-old had failed to report to the Brazilian club despite agreeing to a move on a free transfer after being released by West Bromwich Albion in March.
19:37
David Moyes claims work is already underway at Manchester United to ensure that their summer rebuilding project has them in a position to fare considerably better in their second campaign under his guidance than they have in his first.
We've already done that and we're doing that behind the scenes just now. We'll try and do everything we possibly can to get a team which is capable of winning better than we have done recently.
Re: Football Transfer Centre
April 22
According to the Daily Mirror, Real Madrid will make a summer bid for Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero. Real will generate some funds for a move for the former Atletico Madrid forward by selling Karim Benzema to Paris St Germain in a £35million deal.
6:56
Good morning and welcome back to the Sky Sports Transfer Clockwatch. Stay with us throughout the day for all the latest news and deals.
23:02
Thanks for joining us tonight, we will be back in the morning from 7AM.
22:03
FC Groningen have offered a trial to Fulham striker Dino Islamovic.
22:02
Aberdeen have handed a first contract to attacking starlet Kalvin Orsi, Sky Sports understands.
19:50
Ghana international Samuel Inkoom has claimed that West Ham United are one of five clubs looking to sign him.
14:01
Benfica defender Ezequiel Garay says he's 'very happy' at the club, but also said 'we'll see' when asked about his future. Garay has regularly been linked with Manchester United and was reportedly watched by the Premier League club during Benfica's recent Europa League tie against Tottenham Hotspur.
12:30
Arsenal defender Thomas Vermaelen's agent has claimed Napoli are interested in the Belgium international. However, Alex Kroes has told calciomercato.com that no decision on Vermaelen's future will be made until after the World Cup.
Yes, Napoli have been on the player and have stepped forward, but just as the Neapolitans have, other clubs have shown their interest and not just Italian clubs. Wait until after the World Cup, where Vermaelen is going to do his best, then we will face any kind of discourse for his future.
11:42
There have been rumours that the likes of Manchester City and Paris St Germain are planning bids for Barcelona star Lionel Messi. However, Barcelona are determined to hang on to Messi and intend to improve the Argentina international's contract, which is due to expire in 2018.
11:40
Former Manchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov has confirmed he would like to stay at Monaco next season. Berbatov has impressed since joining Monaco on loan from Fulham before the January transfer window closed following an injury to Radamel Falcao.
11:06
Hamilton striker Mickael Antoine-Curier has told Sky Sports that it is 'flattering' to be linked with other clubs. However, Antoine-Curier says his focus is on helping Hamilton to win the Scottish Championship and earning the chance to play in the Premiership.
10:39
Ipswich Town winger Carlos Edwards is out of contract at the end of the season and he would be keen to stay at Millwall, where he is currently on loan. Millwall are unbeaten in five games since Edwards arrived at The Den at the end of March.
10:13
Republic of Ireland international Stephen Ward is happy to put a decision on his future on hold until the end of the season. Ward has spent the campaign on loan at Brighton & Hove Albion from Wolves and is focused on the Seagulls' push for a playoff spot.
9:51
We've taken a look through the morning papers to bring you some of the transfer lines doing the rounds:
THE SUN: Tim Sherwood fears Tottenham could lose prized asset Christian Eriksen this summer.
DAILY MIRROR: Manchester United may have to pay extra if they want Southampton's England midfielder Adam Lallana because Bournemouth are owed 25 per cent of any transfer fee.
DAILY RECORD: Everton and Swansea are ready to rival Celtic in a £4million fight to sign Nick Powell from Manchester United.
You can read the full version of Paper Talk here
9:18
West Brom midfielder George Thorne is enjoying his loan spell at Derby County and he has been linked with a permanent move to the iPro Stadium. Thorne is not ruling out a long-term deal with Derby, but has confirmed he wants to be playing in the Premier League next season.
8:57
Leeds United striker Ross McCormack only signed a four-year contract last August, but he is waiting to see if he will be offered a fresh deal by new owner Massimo Cellino. McCormack was a target for Premier League clubs Cardiff City and West Ham United in the January transfer window.
According to the Daily Mirror, Real Madrid will make a summer bid for Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero. Real will generate some funds for a move for the former Atletico Madrid forward by selling Karim Benzema to Paris St Germain in a £35million deal.
6:56
Good morning and welcome back to the Sky Sports Transfer Clockwatch. Stay with us throughout the day for all the latest news and deals.
23:02
Thanks for joining us tonight, we will be back in the morning from 7AM.
22:03
FC Groningen have offered a trial to Fulham striker Dino Islamovic.
22:02
Aberdeen have handed a first contract to attacking starlet Kalvin Orsi, Sky Sports understands.
19:50
Ghana international Samuel Inkoom has claimed that West Ham United are one of five clubs looking to sign him.
14:01
Benfica defender Ezequiel Garay says he's 'very happy' at the club, but also said 'we'll see' when asked about his future. Garay has regularly been linked with Manchester United and was reportedly watched by the Premier League club during Benfica's recent Europa League tie against Tottenham Hotspur.
12:30
Arsenal defender Thomas Vermaelen's agent has claimed Napoli are interested in the Belgium international. However, Alex Kroes has told calciomercato.com that no decision on Vermaelen's future will be made until after the World Cup.
Yes, Napoli have been on the player and have stepped forward, but just as the Neapolitans have, other clubs have shown their interest and not just Italian clubs. Wait until after the World Cup, where Vermaelen is going to do his best, then we will face any kind of discourse for his future.
11:42
There have been rumours that the likes of Manchester City and Paris St Germain are planning bids for Barcelona star Lionel Messi. However, Barcelona are determined to hang on to Messi and intend to improve the Argentina international's contract, which is due to expire in 2018.
11:40
Former Manchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov has confirmed he would like to stay at Monaco next season. Berbatov has impressed since joining Monaco on loan from Fulham before the January transfer window closed following an injury to Radamel Falcao.
11:06
Hamilton striker Mickael Antoine-Curier has told Sky Sports that it is 'flattering' to be linked with other clubs. However, Antoine-Curier says his focus is on helping Hamilton to win the Scottish Championship and earning the chance to play in the Premiership.
10:39
Ipswich Town winger Carlos Edwards is out of contract at the end of the season and he would be keen to stay at Millwall, where he is currently on loan. Millwall are unbeaten in five games since Edwards arrived at The Den at the end of March.
10:13
Republic of Ireland international Stephen Ward is happy to put a decision on his future on hold until the end of the season. Ward has spent the campaign on loan at Brighton & Hove Albion from Wolves and is focused on the Seagulls' push for a playoff spot.
9:51
We've taken a look through the morning papers to bring you some of the transfer lines doing the rounds:
THE SUN: Tim Sherwood fears Tottenham could lose prized asset Christian Eriksen this summer.
DAILY MIRROR: Manchester United may have to pay extra if they want Southampton's England midfielder Adam Lallana because Bournemouth are owed 25 per cent of any transfer fee.
DAILY RECORD: Everton and Swansea are ready to rival Celtic in a £4million fight to sign Nick Powell from Manchester United.
You can read the full version of Paper Talk here
9:18
West Brom midfielder George Thorne is enjoying his loan spell at Derby County and he has been linked with a permanent move to the iPro Stadium. Thorne is not ruling out a long-term deal with Derby, but has confirmed he wants to be playing in the Premier League next season.
8:57
Leeds United striker Ross McCormack only signed a four-year contract last August, but he is waiting to see if he will be offered a fresh deal by new owner Massimo Cellino. McCormack was a target for Premier League clubs Cardiff City and West Ham United in the January transfer window.
Re: Football Transfer Centre
April 23
Check out the best video reaction to David Moyes' exit from Manchester United. We will be back in the TC next Monday for all the reaction to the latest twists and turns in the Premier League.
1640
Thanks again to Phil: "In reply to Rich, I understand perfectly the timing of the decision in principle, but I still don't get the timing of the action. United are as capable as anyone else - if they have a preferred candidate - of a nod or a wink or a quiet telephone call; they don't need the public display of a sacking just to alert someone that the job is available. All this does is to show a club in self-inflicted disarray, rather like Spurs with AVB and Levy (and Man City on occasions too numerous to mention). Of course, if they really don't know who they want . . ."
1450
Thanks again to Rich Lynn: "Further to my earlier post I've just heard that the compensation due to Moyes is less if they didn't qualify for Champions League. It was only after the Everton game that it became mathematically impossible so that might be the reasoning behind the timing of the decision. Would make sense."
1400
Chris Flintstone: says: "Surely there is only one person that has the pedigree to succeed Moyes. He has enjoyed European success, boasts premier league experience and has managed big clubs. Moyes' successor has to be André Boas Villas, doesn't it? We can surely rely on him to spend the £200 million."
1335
Hello to Gordon Mays: "As a Liverpool fan I'm gutted Moyes has gone as I wanted him at Old Trafford for everyday of that 6 year contract. An interesting prediction from Brad re Mourhinho as he would have been the perfect fit as highlighted by his comments on Saturday and his complete lack of class. He is rude, arrogant & obnoxious and the takeover from Fergie would have been seamless but like virtually all of Brad's predictions it wont happen because of Mourinho's love of Chelsea. Referring back to Brad's earlier posting this morning could I just say that all teams have injuries, some more than others but it is the way you cope with them that is important and whether your manager has provided sufficient cover within his squad. Liverpool have suffered injuries this season to Johnson, Enrique, Agger, Gerrard, Lucas, Allen, Coutinho & Sturridge but instead of moaning just got on with the job in hand. I would have thought that Arsenal would have been pleased that virtually all of their injuries were confined to midfield as that is the only part of their squad where they have excellent cover as both in the back four and attack (Giroud only) their first choice players are not great and the cover non existent. Furthermore, I think Brad's comments regarding Liverpool benefiting from all refereeing decisions is muddled and he should be making this point regarding Man Utd last season the detail of which I have already highlighted in this column several times. Hopefully, Man Utd wont take my advice but I would have thought Steve Bruce would make a good manager for them - he has passion for the club, has proven his ability at a slightly lower level, would be capable of carrying out the major reconstruction of the squad which is much needed, has PL experience and is still young enough and with modern ideas to make a big impact."
1300
Rich Lynn says: "In response to Phil, I assume that they have sacked Moyes now as they are after a manager that has been targeted by another club and want to make public that the Man U job is available - eg LVG. But they wouldn't be able to name him now as under contract with Holland. Giggs getting it is almost as absurd a suggestion as Terry getting the Chelsea job."
1245
Afternoon to Rob Lynn: "Afternoon David and TC'ers.. Another interesting weekend with Liverpool keeping the pack behind. It will be interesting to see how King Brenny takes on Chelsea knowing a point is good enough. The amount of times they tried to play the ball out from the back and got caught out or nearly caught out will be very dangerous against a better side. Safety first in my opinion next week. And re Noel (08:55), seems not everyone bothers checking facts before they pipe up hey Noel, excellent work as ever owning Brad!"
1235
Hello to Simon Fazakerley: "Really bad case of sour grapes from Brad this morning. If winning 11 on the bounce whilst your rivals inexplicably drop points constitutes "everything has fallen into place" then I guess he is right though. Yes Liverpool have fared well compared to others around them on the injury front over the last few months, but earlier in the season we've had spells without Gerrard, Sturridge, Agger, Sakho, Johnson, Enrique (all season), Allen, Coutinho, etc, etc. We came through our difficult spell and remained in touch, and if (big IF) we hold on will be deserved champions. As for "40 games", who were the last team not competing in the CL to win it? Thought not....you've had years of CL money to accumulate squads to compete in several competitions so that argument just doesn't stick! As for Moyes' replacement do TCers think United will go for an experienced manager capable of attracting top talent (regardless of no European football) or will they look to the new breed of young, tactically astute managers who will get the more from less? Could they go knocking at the gates of Goodison for the second time in a year?"
1230
Hello to Phil Williams: "Moyes. Why now? What's the point? Giggs surely knows even less than Sherwood about how to run a top side, so he can't be permanent, even if he backs himself at 5/1 to win the last four games! If van Gaal has already been lined up, why not name him now so that he can assess the squad and decide on targets? After all, he's going to miss a fair chunk of the summer away in Brazil and concentrating on the Netherlands, which might mean another disastrous summer transfer window for United. There's no Klopp. Are they going to raid Everton again? Will Mike Ashley buy the Glazers out and install Pardew? Is there a Plan A, never mind a Plan B?"
1225
Hello to Darshan Shah, who raises an interesting point: "Hey David, With Ryan Giggs now being appointed as a manager, will he be allowed to play any further? Or is it the end of an unbelievable career?" I am sure he can play on so it is just a question whether he feels he can contribute on the pitch. Or maybe he wants to separate himself from the players with the extra responsibility now.
1150
Kumar says: "Don't see Mourinho taking over at United Brad. I thought Mourinho always wanted to take over from Fergie because he is the sort of a manager who would like to build a dynasty and leave behind a legacy. United would have provided him with the perfect platform for that and there would have been no meddling with his work as long as he was getting positive results. Chelsea can't give him that platform with long nose Roman at their helm. But, this time around I feel Roman will give him more space than he usually does. I still don't see that relationship lasting longer than maybe three seasons, but, at this point in time, I dont think Jose would be in a mood to leave Chelsea. Unless he wants to take up a real challenge and bring back a currently doomed United to its glory years and thus improve his resume. Highly unlikely though."
1135
Welcome back to Martin Nugent: "Can only say that watching Bayern under van Gaal a few years ago was extremely tedious. This would not please Utd fans or PL fans! Interesting theory from Brad."
1125
Hello again to Brad with an interesting theory: "My prediction is that United will go all out for Mourinho, and he will take it. Theres no way he wanted to succeed Fergie, but now he can go in there and clean up the mess. Not a dissimilar situation to when Rioch took over from Graham at Arsenal, only to last a year and then Wenger came in. This will leave the way for Terry to take over as Chelsea manager."
1105
Thanks again to Kumar: "United made a mistake by not going for Mourinho when they could. Now Klopp is certainly ruled out. Even though I have watched Atletico quite a bit recently, I am not very familiar with Simeone to make a comment on him. So that just leaves Van Gaal, doesn't it? Would please Persie no end. Would it please the fans? Don't think so. Certainly not me. Sad story that Klopp update David."
1045
Rich Lynn says: "Heard this morning that when doing constant defensive drills with the Man U defenders he showed them video footage of Phil Jagielka defending. I bet that went down well with the Man U defenders who have about 25 medals between them vs PJ's zero!!"
1030
One down already then United fans as Jurgen Klopp rules himself of the Old Trafford job: "Man United is a great club and I feel very familiar with their wonderful fans. But my commitment to Borussia Dortmund and the people is not breakable.''
1025
Ryan Giggs has been confirmed as the interim manager of Manchester United while they fiddle around finding a full-time successor to Moyes.
Check out the best video reaction to David Moyes' exit from Manchester United. We will be back in the TC next Monday for all the reaction to the latest twists and turns in the Premier League.
1640
Thanks again to Phil: "In reply to Rich, I understand perfectly the timing of the decision in principle, but I still don't get the timing of the action. United are as capable as anyone else - if they have a preferred candidate - of a nod or a wink or a quiet telephone call; they don't need the public display of a sacking just to alert someone that the job is available. All this does is to show a club in self-inflicted disarray, rather like Spurs with AVB and Levy (and Man City on occasions too numerous to mention). Of course, if they really don't know who they want . . ."
1450
Thanks again to Rich Lynn: "Further to my earlier post I've just heard that the compensation due to Moyes is less if they didn't qualify for Champions League. It was only after the Everton game that it became mathematically impossible so that might be the reasoning behind the timing of the decision. Would make sense."
1400
Chris Flintstone: says: "Surely there is only one person that has the pedigree to succeed Moyes. He has enjoyed European success, boasts premier league experience and has managed big clubs. Moyes' successor has to be André Boas Villas, doesn't it? We can surely rely on him to spend the £200 million."
1335
Hello to Gordon Mays: "As a Liverpool fan I'm gutted Moyes has gone as I wanted him at Old Trafford for everyday of that 6 year contract. An interesting prediction from Brad re Mourhinho as he would have been the perfect fit as highlighted by his comments on Saturday and his complete lack of class. He is rude, arrogant & obnoxious and the takeover from Fergie would have been seamless but like virtually all of Brad's predictions it wont happen because of Mourinho's love of Chelsea. Referring back to Brad's earlier posting this morning could I just say that all teams have injuries, some more than others but it is the way you cope with them that is important and whether your manager has provided sufficient cover within his squad. Liverpool have suffered injuries this season to Johnson, Enrique, Agger, Gerrard, Lucas, Allen, Coutinho & Sturridge but instead of moaning just got on with the job in hand. I would have thought that Arsenal would have been pleased that virtually all of their injuries were confined to midfield as that is the only part of their squad where they have excellent cover as both in the back four and attack (Giroud only) their first choice players are not great and the cover non existent. Furthermore, I think Brad's comments regarding Liverpool benefiting from all refereeing decisions is muddled and he should be making this point regarding Man Utd last season the detail of which I have already highlighted in this column several times. Hopefully, Man Utd wont take my advice but I would have thought Steve Bruce would make a good manager for them - he has passion for the club, has proven his ability at a slightly lower level, would be capable of carrying out the major reconstruction of the squad which is much needed, has PL experience and is still young enough and with modern ideas to make a big impact."
1300
Rich Lynn says: "In response to Phil, I assume that they have sacked Moyes now as they are after a manager that has been targeted by another club and want to make public that the Man U job is available - eg LVG. But they wouldn't be able to name him now as under contract with Holland. Giggs getting it is almost as absurd a suggestion as Terry getting the Chelsea job."
1245
Afternoon to Rob Lynn: "Afternoon David and TC'ers.. Another interesting weekend with Liverpool keeping the pack behind. It will be interesting to see how King Brenny takes on Chelsea knowing a point is good enough. The amount of times they tried to play the ball out from the back and got caught out or nearly caught out will be very dangerous against a better side. Safety first in my opinion next week. And re Noel (08:55), seems not everyone bothers checking facts before they pipe up hey Noel, excellent work as ever owning Brad!"
1235
Hello to Simon Fazakerley: "Really bad case of sour grapes from Brad this morning. If winning 11 on the bounce whilst your rivals inexplicably drop points constitutes "everything has fallen into place" then I guess he is right though. Yes Liverpool have fared well compared to others around them on the injury front over the last few months, but earlier in the season we've had spells without Gerrard, Sturridge, Agger, Sakho, Johnson, Enrique (all season), Allen, Coutinho, etc, etc. We came through our difficult spell and remained in touch, and if (big IF) we hold on will be deserved champions. As for "40 games", who were the last team not competing in the CL to win it? Thought not....you've had years of CL money to accumulate squads to compete in several competitions so that argument just doesn't stick! As for Moyes' replacement do TCers think United will go for an experienced manager capable of attracting top talent (regardless of no European football) or will they look to the new breed of young, tactically astute managers who will get the more from less? Could they go knocking at the gates of Goodison for the second time in a year?"
1230
Hello to Phil Williams: "Moyes. Why now? What's the point? Giggs surely knows even less than Sherwood about how to run a top side, so he can't be permanent, even if he backs himself at 5/1 to win the last four games! If van Gaal has already been lined up, why not name him now so that he can assess the squad and decide on targets? After all, he's going to miss a fair chunk of the summer away in Brazil and concentrating on the Netherlands, which might mean another disastrous summer transfer window for United. There's no Klopp. Are they going to raid Everton again? Will Mike Ashley buy the Glazers out and install Pardew? Is there a Plan A, never mind a Plan B?"
1225
Hello to Darshan Shah, who raises an interesting point: "Hey David, With Ryan Giggs now being appointed as a manager, will he be allowed to play any further? Or is it the end of an unbelievable career?" I am sure he can play on so it is just a question whether he feels he can contribute on the pitch. Or maybe he wants to separate himself from the players with the extra responsibility now.
1150
Kumar says: "Don't see Mourinho taking over at United Brad. I thought Mourinho always wanted to take over from Fergie because he is the sort of a manager who would like to build a dynasty and leave behind a legacy. United would have provided him with the perfect platform for that and there would have been no meddling with his work as long as he was getting positive results. Chelsea can't give him that platform with long nose Roman at their helm. But, this time around I feel Roman will give him more space than he usually does. I still don't see that relationship lasting longer than maybe three seasons, but, at this point in time, I dont think Jose would be in a mood to leave Chelsea. Unless he wants to take up a real challenge and bring back a currently doomed United to its glory years and thus improve his resume. Highly unlikely though."
1135
Welcome back to Martin Nugent: "Can only say that watching Bayern under van Gaal a few years ago was extremely tedious. This would not please Utd fans or PL fans! Interesting theory from Brad."
1125
Hello again to Brad with an interesting theory: "My prediction is that United will go all out for Mourinho, and he will take it. Theres no way he wanted to succeed Fergie, but now he can go in there and clean up the mess. Not a dissimilar situation to when Rioch took over from Graham at Arsenal, only to last a year and then Wenger came in. This will leave the way for Terry to take over as Chelsea manager."
1105
Thanks again to Kumar: "United made a mistake by not going for Mourinho when they could. Now Klopp is certainly ruled out. Even though I have watched Atletico quite a bit recently, I am not very familiar with Simeone to make a comment on him. So that just leaves Van Gaal, doesn't it? Would please Persie no end. Would it please the fans? Don't think so. Certainly not me. Sad story that Klopp update David."
1045
Rich Lynn says: "Heard this morning that when doing constant defensive drills with the Man U defenders he showed them video footage of Phil Jagielka defending. I bet that went down well with the Man U defenders who have about 25 medals between them vs PJ's zero!!"
1030
One down already then United fans as Jurgen Klopp rules himself of the Old Trafford job: "Man United is a great club and I feel very familiar with their wonderful fans. But my commitment to Borussia Dortmund and the people is not breakable.''
1025
Ryan Giggs has been confirmed as the interim manager of Manchester United while they fiddle around finding a full-time successor to Moyes.
Re: Football Transfer Centre
April 27
Stoke boss Mark Hughes has revealed he plans to hold talks with Oussama Assaidi over making his loan move a permanent deal.
14:45
Celtic boss Neil Lennon expects Georgios Samaras to leave for a top-level European club - and admits he faces a tough task replacing the striker.
Georgios hasn't come out and said this yet but I'd imagine he would be moving on
in the summer.
10:59
Reports emanating from France claim Liverpool are in talks with Lyon’s Alexandre Lacazette.
8:55
PAPER TALK
For a full round-up of all the best stories from today’s tabloids and broadsheets, check out our updated Paper Talk feature, which includes the following transfer lines and many, many more.
SUNDAY MIRROR: Schalke defender Sead Kolasinac has revealed that he is weighing up an offer from Manchester United over a potential summer move.
DAILY STAR ON SUNDAY: Chelsea are planning an audacious £20m bid for Everton defender John Stones.
SUNDAY EXPRESS: Liverpool and Tottenham are aiming to take advantage of the uncertainty at Manchester United by hijacking their bid for Southampton pair Luke Shaw, 18, and Adam Lallana, 25.
8:53
AC Milan are ready to sell striker Mario Balotelli, to Premier League clubs - with Arsenal or Tottenham potential buyers, according to the Sunday Express.
8:52
The Sunday Mirror claims Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers will make a summer move for Cardiff defender Steven Caulker.
8:40
Good morning and welcome back to the Sky Sports Transfer Clockwatch. Stay with us throughout the day to keep up to date with all the latest news.
23:00
That's it from the Sky Sports Transfer Clockwatch for today. Join us again from 9am on Sunday morning as we continue to bring you all of the latest news and speculation.
22:46
Stuart Gray hopes he will receive the required backing from his board this summer to ensure that Sheffield Wednesday enter the next campaign stronger than they will finish the current one.
There are a lot of players out of contract in the summer and I've evaluated what I've got. I know where I want to go with the club. It's just a case of sitting down with the chairman and seeing what the budget is so that we know what players we can attract to the club.
22:19
Bolton manager Dougie Freedman will look to freshen up his squad over the summer, with a relegation battle having been successfully avoided.
We will obviously bring one or two players in of the right profile over the summer and naturally one or two will move on. I've got to make sure that I've got one eye on the balance sheet.
Stoke boss Mark Hughes has revealed he plans to hold talks with Oussama Assaidi over making his loan move a permanent deal.
14:45
Celtic boss Neil Lennon expects Georgios Samaras to leave for a top-level European club - and admits he faces a tough task replacing the striker.
Georgios hasn't come out and said this yet but I'd imagine he would be moving on
in the summer.
10:59
Reports emanating from France claim Liverpool are in talks with Lyon’s Alexandre Lacazette.
8:55
PAPER TALK
For a full round-up of all the best stories from today’s tabloids and broadsheets, check out our updated Paper Talk feature, which includes the following transfer lines and many, many more.
SUNDAY MIRROR: Schalke defender Sead Kolasinac has revealed that he is weighing up an offer from Manchester United over a potential summer move.
DAILY STAR ON SUNDAY: Chelsea are planning an audacious £20m bid for Everton defender John Stones.
SUNDAY EXPRESS: Liverpool and Tottenham are aiming to take advantage of the uncertainty at Manchester United by hijacking their bid for Southampton pair Luke Shaw, 18, and Adam Lallana, 25.
8:53
AC Milan are ready to sell striker Mario Balotelli, to Premier League clubs - with Arsenal or Tottenham potential buyers, according to the Sunday Express.
8:52
The Sunday Mirror claims Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers will make a summer move for Cardiff defender Steven Caulker.
8:40
Good morning and welcome back to the Sky Sports Transfer Clockwatch. Stay with us throughout the day to keep up to date with all the latest news.
23:00
That's it from the Sky Sports Transfer Clockwatch for today. Join us again from 9am on Sunday morning as we continue to bring you all of the latest news and speculation.
22:46
Stuart Gray hopes he will receive the required backing from his board this summer to ensure that Sheffield Wednesday enter the next campaign stronger than they will finish the current one.
There are a lot of players out of contract in the summer and I've evaluated what I've got. I know where I want to go with the club. It's just a case of sitting down with the chairman and seeing what the budget is so that we know what players we can attract to the club.
22:19
Bolton manager Dougie Freedman will look to freshen up his squad over the summer, with a relegation battle having been successfully avoided.
We will obviously bring one or two players in of the right profile over the summer and naturally one or two will move on. I've got to make sure that I've got one eye on the balance sheet.
Re: Football Transfer Centre
April 29
That just about wraps things up in the Transfer Centre this afternoon - thanks for all your emails and contributions, as ever. We will return on Tuesday next week when we'll be discussing the busy Bank Holiday weekend action.
1700
Dennis Davies: "Final thought for the day - Sunderland get fined for fielding an ineligible player, Wimbledon get docked 3 points. One law for one..."
1645
Brad Smith: "Having supported Arsenal for 40 years, I'm well versed in the attractive losing football vs negative winning football debate. And frankly, I'd bite your arm off for a few season of George Graham/Mourinho style success. We've been entertained beyond words at the Emirates over the last few years, but all people do is bleat on about 9 years without a trophy etc etc. Gordon, its funny to hear you say that, as that's what Arsenal fans have been saying for years, but let me tell you, it ultimately wont make you happy, and theres no style column in the league table..."
1628
Sky Sports reporting Manchester United are considering other managerial candidates, despite positive talks with Louis van Gaal.
1610
Brendan Rodgers insists his players will take their setback against Chelsea on the chin.
1540
Gordon Mays: "Further to my earlier posting I fully agree that Liverpool were posed a question and on the day came up short. However, I would rather be watching and supporting a team that attacks, tries to score goals rather than a team that spends hundreds of millions of pounds on attacking talent and then parks the bus in several away matches (not just yesterday) while their obnoxious manager complains when other clubs use those same tactics at Stamford Bridge - I must say that I'm surprised so many football fans without any allegiance to Chelsea are eulogising over this type of negative football."
1535
Damien Box: "I may be in the minority of non Chelsea fans that enjoy Chelsea's defensive efforts against attacking teams. Defending is a very important part of the game and Chelsea just happen to enjoy doing it. I hope they win the Champions League as it will be a big 2 fingers to those people at the top of the game who think the only way of football is the Barcelona way (Platini). They did it against my team on Sunday (which wasn't nice to watch) and you have to say fair play. They won it with no controversial decisions in their favour and Liverpool failed to do anything that resulted in scoring. Everyone knows exactly how Chelsea will play in these big games and it's up to the other to beat their system."
1500
Dennis Davies would like to talk about parking the bus. Here is his contribution: "Just a quick note on 'park the bus' - I can't stand Mourinho, his antics, his snide comments on players, managers and officials, and I truly can't understand why the press have such a great love-in with him. Having said that, his tactics were spot on yesterday - and he certainly didn't go for a 0-0. He knew full well that somewhere in 90 (or should that be 115 mins for timewasting) that he would get one or two chances. What I find amusing (and this from someone who's team has consistently been laughed at by some TC'ers for having no plan B!), is that the great Brendan either 1) didn't foresee that this is how Chelsea would play, and 2) hadn't got a clue what to do about it (I think that counts as no plan B!). Also amused to see press comments that Liverpool appeared 'leggy', as I seem to remember that the reason that they would win the league this year is that they didn't have to worry about European games tiring them out - doesn't augur well for next year. I just hope that teams don't go down the Chelsea route of setting up 9-0-1, and that either City or Liverpool win the title - at least they have both try to play football that I don't mind paying to watch!"
1445
Tony F writes: "Hello everyone and just a couple of quick points on POTY, team of the year etc; for me Yaya Toure is the player of the year by a long way and I can't agree with those wearing the Suarez-tinted specs. Sure he's scored the proverbial bucket-load but pretty much all against the lower sides in the league (the bulk at Anfield too) and yesterday vs Chelsea he was insignificant in much the same way as against City and Arsenal before. For the team of the season I'd pick Sturridge and Aguero up front with no place for Suarez. Finally, having taken a small bet on Liverpool after Xmas when the CL latter stages became clear to likely work against Arsenal in their pursuit of the title I'm disappointed for 'pool and their followers. I did say then that the title was theirs for the taking and this was clearly the season to win the PL (no CL or even Europa League to distract them and FA Cup too as it turned out). It's not over but a case of close but no cigar and those 'pool supporters born after 1990 look still to be left waiting for a title for quite some time yet. Maybe City will yet still fail by doing a Chelsea (as in the Sunderland match)."
1430
Roy Keane has played down speculation he could return to Manchester United as Louis van Gaal's number two.
1422
Simon Fazakerley says: "Jose got his tactics spot on yesterday to get the desired result. Do we (LFC fans) like it, of course we don't, as no-one does when it happens to them (19th century football?). What I would say though is fair play when the "underdogs" employ such tactics to overcome teams with significantly more resources, but are we supposed to celebrate such a display from one of the most extravagantly assembled squads in the history of the game? Imagine if Barca, Bayern and Madrid decided to employ similar tactics, it would be like watching England v Ukraine on repeat, and our beautiful game would be much worse for it. Perhaps that is why Jose feels he needs to"overdo it" with his off field antics, to make up for the lack of football on it? Does the TotY have to fit a formation criteria? If not I'd go for Howard, Coleman, Skrtel, Cahill, Azpilicueta, Gerrard, Toure, Ramsey, Hazard, Lallana, Suarez. Ramsey might be a controversial inclusion but many players have had half a good season (Aguero, Silva, Sterling) and his form 'til Xmas almost single handedly propelled Arsenal clear of the rest."
That just about wraps things up in the Transfer Centre this afternoon - thanks for all your emails and contributions, as ever. We will return on Tuesday next week when we'll be discussing the busy Bank Holiday weekend action.
1700
Dennis Davies: "Final thought for the day - Sunderland get fined for fielding an ineligible player, Wimbledon get docked 3 points. One law for one..."
1645
Brad Smith: "Having supported Arsenal for 40 years, I'm well versed in the attractive losing football vs negative winning football debate. And frankly, I'd bite your arm off for a few season of George Graham/Mourinho style success. We've been entertained beyond words at the Emirates over the last few years, but all people do is bleat on about 9 years without a trophy etc etc. Gordon, its funny to hear you say that, as that's what Arsenal fans have been saying for years, but let me tell you, it ultimately wont make you happy, and theres no style column in the league table..."
1628
Sky Sports reporting Manchester United are considering other managerial candidates, despite positive talks with Louis van Gaal.
1610
Brendan Rodgers insists his players will take their setback against Chelsea on the chin.
1540
Gordon Mays: "Further to my earlier posting I fully agree that Liverpool were posed a question and on the day came up short. However, I would rather be watching and supporting a team that attacks, tries to score goals rather than a team that spends hundreds of millions of pounds on attacking talent and then parks the bus in several away matches (not just yesterday) while their obnoxious manager complains when other clubs use those same tactics at Stamford Bridge - I must say that I'm surprised so many football fans without any allegiance to Chelsea are eulogising over this type of negative football."
1535
Damien Box: "I may be in the minority of non Chelsea fans that enjoy Chelsea's defensive efforts against attacking teams. Defending is a very important part of the game and Chelsea just happen to enjoy doing it. I hope they win the Champions League as it will be a big 2 fingers to those people at the top of the game who think the only way of football is the Barcelona way (Platini). They did it against my team on Sunday (which wasn't nice to watch) and you have to say fair play. They won it with no controversial decisions in their favour and Liverpool failed to do anything that resulted in scoring. Everyone knows exactly how Chelsea will play in these big games and it's up to the other to beat their system."
1500
Dennis Davies would like to talk about parking the bus. Here is his contribution: "Just a quick note on 'park the bus' - I can't stand Mourinho, his antics, his snide comments on players, managers and officials, and I truly can't understand why the press have such a great love-in with him. Having said that, his tactics were spot on yesterday - and he certainly didn't go for a 0-0. He knew full well that somewhere in 90 (or should that be 115 mins for timewasting) that he would get one or two chances. What I find amusing (and this from someone who's team has consistently been laughed at by some TC'ers for having no plan B!), is that the great Brendan either 1) didn't foresee that this is how Chelsea would play, and 2) hadn't got a clue what to do about it (I think that counts as no plan B!). Also amused to see press comments that Liverpool appeared 'leggy', as I seem to remember that the reason that they would win the league this year is that they didn't have to worry about European games tiring them out - doesn't augur well for next year. I just hope that teams don't go down the Chelsea route of setting up 9-0-1, and that either City or Liverpool win the title - at least they have both try to play football that I don't mind paying to watch!"
1445
Tony F writes: "Hello everyone and just a couple of quick points on POTY, team of the year etc; for me Yaya Toure is the player of the year by a long way and I can't agree with those wearing the Suarez-tinted specs. Sure he's scored the proverbial bucket-load but pretty much all against the lower sides in the league (the bulk at Anfield too) and yesterday vs Chelsea he was insignificant in much the same way as against City and Arsenal before. For the team of the season I'd pick Sturridge and Aguero up front with no place for Suarez. Finally, having taken a small bet on Liverpool after Xmas when the CL latter stages became clear to likely work against Arsenal in their pursuit of the title I'm disappointed for 'pool and their followers. I did say then that the title was theirs for the taking and this was clearly the season to win the PL (no CL or even Europa League to distract them and FA Cup too as it turned out). It's not over but a case of close but no cigar and those 'pool supporters born after 1990 look still to be left waiting for a title for quite some time yet. Maybe City will yet still fail by doing a Chelsea (as in the Sunderland match)."
1430
Roy Keane has played down speculation he could return to Manchester United as Louis van Gaal's number two.
1422
Simon Fazakerley says: "Jose got his tactics spot on yesterday to get the desired result. Do we (LFC fans) like it, of course we don't, as no-one does when it happens to them (19th century football?). What I would say though is fair play when the "underdogs" employ such tactics to overcome teams with significantly more resources, but are we supposed to celebrate such a display from one of the most extravagantly assembled squads in the history of the game? Imagine if Barca, Bayern and Madrid decided to employ similar tactics, it would be like watching England v Ukraine on repeat, and our beautiful game would be much worse for it. Perhaps that is why Jose feels he needs to"overdo it" with his off field antics, to make up for the lack of football on it? Does the TotY have to fit a formation criteria? If not I'd go for Howard, Coleman, Skrtel, Cahill, Azpilicueta, Gerrard, Toure, Ramsey, Hazard, Lallana, Suarez. Ramsey might be a controversial inclusion but many players have had half a good season (Aguero, Silva, Sterling) and his form 'til Xmas almost single handedly propelled Arsenal clear of the rest."
Re: Football Transfer Centre
April 30
Peter O'Neill writes: "Trying to play against a team who will "park a bus" the entire match and then spend at least 1/4 of the match time wasting is always going to be difficult to beat. Would you want to watch a team play this negatively every week? If they do happen to beat Atletico on Wednesday night (probably on penalties I imagine), I can only hope Real or Bayern give them a hiding in the CL Final. If Chelsea happen to win it playing the same negative way Mourinho is renowned for god help football!"
1345
Philip Williams has kindly been in touch to join the debate: "I'm sorry but I don't buy all this 'Liverpool hater' stuff. The way that Chelsea played yesterday was, surely, nothing if not predictable - and teams have to have something up their sleeve to be able to counter it. It was ultimately professional and totally boring for anyone not a Chelsea fan, and I agree that they got away with time-wasting for far too long; but they didn't make any mistakes in their planning or execution while Liverpool did in both. Move on and plan better."
1338
Chris Scott says: "How dare chelsea go to anfield and not just attack for 90 min. You play to your strengths and ours is not attack at the moment. I wish we had the 2nd round game against Man Utd over again because if Mourinho knew how poor they were going to be we wouldn't have sat back so much. As for team of the year, why doesn't Ivanovic ever get a mention? He's the most versatile player in the league and has had a great season."
1330
Thanks to Noel Madden for getting in touch. He writes: "Hi Matthew. Firstly, my team of the season; Cech, Aspilicueta, Cahill, Kompany, Aspilicueta, Lalana, Gerard, Toure, Hazard, Suarez, Sturridge. In case anyone thinks there's a typo in there let me explain. This team will never play together so if someone has obviously shown themselves to be the best in 2 positions, as Aspi has, then there is every justification to name them in those 2 positions. As for anyone saying that Kompany shouldn't be in the team of the season; try putting any of your preferences beside Di Michelis for a season and see how they'd get on. Very rich of Mr. Mays to lambast the only pundit still on TV who has an anti-Liverpool bias. Paul Walsh and Graeme Souness made total fools of themselves yesterday. I do admit that Neville's comment that yesterday's game was 'a game for men' was definitely a low blow, though very funny."
1325
Ray Houghton says Jose Mourinho must produce a more attractive style of play to keep Roman Abrahamovich happy.
1305
For those of you considering the goal difference conundrum, Sky Bet are offering 6/4 that the Premier League title race is decided by that method. Take the odds right here.
1255
Rob Lynn: "Sorry for the over posting today but why do people think Mourinho or Chelsea set out for 0-0 in these games? They played in such a way that they would only concede to a moment of magic and were patient enough for Liverpool to make mistakes, which they did and they scored from them. Look at Mourinho's Inter against Barca and Bayern when they won the CL, it's exactly the same tactic. More fool the managers who don't pay enough attention to detail to try and beat it. As a last reminder, if 0-0 was what they wanted, why not just give the ball to Mignolet to stand there for 2x45 minutes? That would've been totally legal and Liverpool would've got the point that would've won the league. Head up Brenny in that case."
1250
Gordon Mays has his say: "Regarding yesterday's match at Anfield, for me five things were clear - (1) Liverpool did not deserve to win but they certainly did not deserve to lose as they were the only team who wanted to play or win (2) Will the PL still be the most exciting league in the world when everyone copies Chelsea's new 9-0-1 formation intent on a 0-0 draw? (3) Will anyone ever get cautioned for time wasting again? Referee Atkinson warned them 17 times from the second minute onwards until eventually taking action in the 92 minute but only added 30 seconds extra time to the second half for time wasting as the 4 mins included 5 substitutions x 30 seconds each and one minute for synchronised cramp (4) Ashley Cole was extremely lucky not to get a red card for his elbow on Suarez which as usual the Liverpool player made little of (5) Gary Neville should be sacked because of his vitriolic hated of Liverpool, their players and supporters make both of his positions untenable. His comments during yesterday's match and on many previous occasions this season have been pathetic at best and despite an excellent playing career highlight a complete lack of knowledge of the game. I have never said Liverpool would win the PL this season and now they probably wont but they have given it their all and had a terrific season whatever happens plus they have easily achieved their pre-season goal of CL football. I knew all the Liverpool haters would have a field day today but please note the fat lady hasn't started singing yet."
1235
Rob Lynn: "Not sure I agree with you there Matt. Say, for example, City win their last 3 games by the odd goal, that would make them +61. That would mean Pool would need to win by 12 goals in their last 2. I can see them beating this current Newcastle side 15-0, providing Suarez plays of course otherwise they'll struggle for a point."
1220
Paul Cressy writes " Morning Matt, so Liverpool lose and the haters are out in force. Yes, we did not expect to lose yesterday and today should have been a day of celebration for we Liverpool supporters, but it's not. Let me just say if Chelsea had been able to field a full strength side ie Terry, Hazard, Ramires, Eto'o etc would the result have been the same? NO it would not of. Because Chelsea would have come to play football not defend with 10 behind the ball at all times. The tactics were bang on, so fair play - no excuses. Have we blown the title? Not necessarily. I fully expect us to win our last two games, but have we got the ability to score 10 or more goals in those two games? And that is without a favour from Everton!!! Could or will go to the wire now and I really did not expect that a few weeks ago....We keep believing." Only one team will be winning the title on goal difference Paul, if it's required, and that will be Manchester City. For GD to be needed City will have to have won all their remaining three games, which will make their GD lead an unassailable one. Let's hope it doesn't come to that, though.
1140
Rich Lynn: "My team - Lloris, Coleman, Kocielny, Terry, Azper, Hazard, Yaya, Silva, Lallana, Suarez, Aguero. Manager - Sherwood, so if they lose to La Liga XI they are all rubbish and much of a muchness. If they win however, it's 100% down to the manager."
1110
Ralph has kindly been in touch this morning, emailing: "Hi Matthew, what a great weekend for Sunderland. Not out of the woods yet though. As a Liverpool fan I must say I am just delighted about how well the team has done over the season. We were meant to be struggling to get 4th and are guaranteed at least 3rd. Sterling is going to develop into a fantastic player but I hope he is managed well and does not end up on the physio's table on a regular basis. My team of the year would be: Howard, Coleman, Mertssacker, Cahill, Zabaleta, Hazard, Toure, Gerrard, Silva, Suarez and Aguero. I would not mind if Szezesny replaced Howard in goals." Sunderland have just about performed this year's 'Great Escape' haven't they? Although I'd also class Crystal Palace in the same bracket given how things were looking when Tony Pulis was brought in.
Peter O'Neill writes: "Trying to play against a team who will "park a bus" the entire match and then spend at least 1/4 of the match time wasting is always going to be difficult to beat. Would you want to watch a team play this negatively every week? If they do happen to beat Atletico on Wednesday night (probably on penalties I imagine), I can only hope Real or Bayern give them a hiding in the CL Final. If Chelsea happen to win it playing the same negative way Mourinho is renowned for god help football!"
1345
Philip Williams has kindly been in touch to join the debate: "I'm sorry but I don't buy all this 'Liverpool hater' stuff. The way that Chelsea played yesterday was, surely, nothing if not predictable - and teams have to have something up their sleeve to be able to counter it. It was ultimately professional and totally boring for anyone not a Chelsea fan, and I agree that they got away with time-wasting for far too long; but they didn't make any mistakes in their planning or execution while Liverpool did in both. Move on and plan better."
1338
Chris Scott says: "How dare chelsea go to anfield and not just attack for 90 min. You play to your strengths and ours is not attack at the moment. I wish we had the 2nd round game against Man Utd over again because if Mourinho knew how poor they were going to be we wouldn't have sat back so much. As for team of the year, why doesn't Ivanovic ever get a mention? He's the most versatile player in the league and has had a great season."
1330
Thanks to Noel Madden for getting in touch. He writes: "Hi Matthew. Firstly, my team of the season; Cech, Aspilicueta, Cahill, Kompany, Aspilicueta, Lalana, Gerard, Toure, Hazard, Suarez, Sturridge. In case anyone thinks there's a typo in there let me explain. This team will never play together so if someone has obviously shown themselves to be the best in 2 positions, as Aspi has, then there is every justification to name them in those 2 positions. As for anyone saying that Kompany shouldn't be in the team of the season; try putting any of your preferences beside Di Michelis for a season and see how they'd get on. Very rich of Mr. Mays to lambast the only pundit still on TV who has an anti-Liverpool bias. Paul Walsh and Graeme Souness made total fools of themselves yesterday. I do admit that Neville's comment that yesterday's game was 'a game for men' was definitely a low blow, though very funny."
1325
Ray Houghton says Jose Mourinho must produce a more attractive style of play to keep Roman Abrahamovich happy.
1305
For those of you considering the goal difference conundrum, Sky Bet are offering 6/4 that the Premier League title race is decided by that method. Take the odds right here.
1255
Rob Lynn: "Sorry for the over posting today but why do people think Mourinho or Chelsea set out for 0-0 in these games? They played in such a way that they would only concede to a moment of magic and were patient enough for Liverpool to make mistakes, which they did and they scored from them. Look at Mourinho's Inter against Barca and Bayern when they won the CL, it's exactly the same tactic. More fool the managers who don't pay enough attention to detail to try and beat it. As a last reminder, if 0-0 was what they wanted, why not just give the ball to Mignolet to stand there for 2x45 minutes? That would've been totally legal and Liverpool would've got the point that would've won the league. Head up Brenny in that case."
1250
Gordon Mays has his say: "Regarding yesterday's match at Anfield, for me five things were clear - (1) Liverpool did not deserve to win but they certainly did not deserve to lose as they were the only team who wanted to play or win (2) Will the PL still be the most exciting league in the world when everyone copies Chelsea's new 9-0-1 formation intent on a 0-0 draw? (3) Will anyone ever get cautioned for time wasting again? Referee Atkinson warned them 17 times from the second minute onwards until eventually taking action in the 92 minute but only added 30 seconds extra time to the second half for time wasting as the 4 mins included 5 substitutions x 30 seconds each and one minute for synchronised cramp (4) Ashley Cole was extremely lucky not to get a red card for his elbow on Suarez which as usual the Liverpool player made little of (5) Gary Neville should be sacked because of his vitriolic hated of Liverpool, their players and supporters make both of his positions untenable. His comments during yesterday's match and on many previous occasions this season have been pathetic at best and despite an excellent playing career highlight a complete lack of knowledge of the game. I have never said Liverpool would win the PL this season and now they probably wont but they have given it their all and had a terrific season whatever happens plus they have easily achieved their pre-season goal of CL football. I knew all the Liverpool haters would have a field day today but please note the fat lady hasn't started singing yet."
1235
Rob Lynn: "Not sure I agree with you there Matt. Say, for example, City win their last 3 games by the odd goal, that would make them +61. That would mean Pool would need to win by 12 goals in their last 2. I can see them beating this current Newcastle side 15-0, providing Suarez plays of course otherwise they'll struggle for a point."
1220
Paul Cressy writes " Morning Matt, so Liverpool lose and the haters are out in force. Yes, we did not expect to lose yesterday and today should have been a day of celebration for we Liverpool supporters, but it's not. Let me just say if Chelsea had been able to field a full strength side ie Terry, Hazard, Ramires, Eto'o etc would the result have been the same? NO it would not of. Because Chelsea would have come to play football not defend with 10 behind the ball at all times. The tactics were bang on, so fair play - no excuses. Have we blown the title? Not necessarily. I fully expect us to win our last two games, but have we got the ability to score 10 or more goals in those two games? And that is without a favour from Everton!!! Could or will go to the wire now and I really did not expect that a few weeks ago....We keep believing." Only one team will be winning the title on goal difference Paul, if it's required, and that will be Manchester City. For GD to be needed City will have to have won all their remaining three games, which will make their GD lead an unassailable one. Let's hope it doesn't come to that, though.
1140
Rich Lynn: "My team - Lloris, Coleman, Kocielny, Terry, Azper, Hazard, Yaya, Silva, Lallana, Suarez, Aguero. Manager - Sherwood, so if they lose to La Liga XI they are all rubbish and much of a muchness. If they win however, it's 100% down to the manager."
1110
Ralph has kindly been in touch this morning, emailing: "Hi Matthew, what a great weekend for Sunderland. Not out of the woods yet though. As a Liverpool fan I must say I am just delighted about how well the team has done over the season. We were meant to be struggling to get 4th and are guaranteed at least 3rd. Sterling is going to develop into a fantastic player but I hope he is managed well and does not end up on the physio's table on a regular basis. My team of the year would be: Howard, Coleman, Mertssacker, Cahill, Zabaleta, Hazard, Toure, Gerrard, Silva, Suarez and Aguero. I would not mind if Szezesny replaced Howard in goals." Sunderland have just about performed this year's 'Great Escape' haven't they? Although I'd also class Crystal Palace in the same bracket given how things were looking when Tony Pulis was brought in.
Re: Football Transfer Centre
Thursday May 1
Port Vale midfielder Chris Shuker has been forced to retire from playing due to injury. Shuker sustained a knee injury almost six-and-a-half years ago and has suffered chronic problems with it since.
19:37
PSV Eindhoven have told highly-rated teenager Zakaria Bakkali that they will not improve their offer of a new contract. Bakkali, 18, has emerged as one of the most exciting young prospects in the Eredivisie and is reportedly on the radar of some of Europe#s top clubs, including Arsenal and Liverpool.
18:56
Barnsley boss Danny Wilson will oversee a mass clear-out at Oakwell during the summer but refuses to predict when his new-look side will regain their Championship status. The Reds' defeat at Middlesbrough last week condemned them to relegation after eight seasons in the second tier and Wilson has confirmed "15 or 16" first-team squad members will be out of contract in the summer.
18:19
More now on the news that Middlesbrough goalkeeper Dimi Konstantopoulos has signed a new one-year deal, and boss Aitor Karanka has revealed the former Hartlepool man’s commitment since arriving was key to a new contract being offered.
18:01
Paul Lambert says Aston Villa need to start spending big to avoid their seemingly constant battles to avoid relegation from the Premier League. The Scot has been linked with moves for Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez, Manchester City defender Joleon Lescott and Tottenham midfielder Lewis Holtby.
I think a football club of this size needs that calibre of player. I'm not just talking about those three lads because it would be wrong for me to talk about them but we need that level of player for the size of this club, wherever they come from. This club needs big players.
17:38
Real Sociedad defender Inigo Martinez has insisted he would never consider switching to Basque Country rivals Athletic Bilbao. Martinez has been linked with a number of clubs, including Manchester United and Manchester City, after a magnificent season, but has ruled out ever moving to Bilbao.
17:11
Rotherham manager Steve Evans says top scorer Kieran Agard will not get special treatment when it comes to earning a new contract. The club have the option to extend Agard's contract in the summer for an extra year but Evans is considering offering a long-term deal.
However, despite his form and reported interest from other clubs, Evans says Agard must wait until the end of the season along with the rest of the out-of-contract players.
Port Vale midfielder Chris Shuker has been forced to retire from playing due to injury. Shuker sustained a knee injury almost six-and-a-half years ago and has suffered chronic problems with it since.
19:37
PSV Eindhoven have told highly-rated teenager Zakaria Bakkali that they will not improve their offer of a new contract. Bakkali, 18, has emerged as one of the most exciting young prospects in the Eredivisie and is reportedly on the radar of some of Europe#s top clubs, including Arsenal and Liverpool.
18:56
Barnsley boss Danny Wilson will oversee a mass clear-out at Oakwell during the summer but refuses to predict when his new-look side will regain their Championship status. The Reds' defeat at Middlesbrough last week condemned them to relegation after eight seasons in the second tier and Wilson has confirmed "15 or 16" first-team squad members will be out of contract in the summer.
18:19
More now on the news that Middlesbrough goalkeeper Dimi Konstantopoulos has signed a new one-year deal, and boss Aitor Karanka has revealed the former Hartlepool man’s commitment since arriving was key to a new contract being offered.
18:01
Paul Lambert says Aston Villa need to start spending big to avoid their seemingly constant battles to avoid relegation from the Premier League. The Scot has been linked with moves for Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez, Manchester City defender Joleon Lescott and Tottenham midfielder Lewis Holtby.
I think a football club of this size needs that calibre of player. I'm not just talking about those three lads because it would be wrong for me to talk about them but we need that level of player for the size of this club, wherever they come from. This club needs big players.
17:38
Real Sociedad defender Inigo Martinez has insisted he would never consider switching to Basque Country rivals Athletic Bilbao. Martinez has been linked with a number of clubs, including Manchester United and Manchester City, after a magnificent season, but has ruled out ever moving to Bilbao.
17:11
Rotherham manager Steve Evans says top scorer Kieran Agard will not get special treatment when it comes to earning a new contract. The club have the option to extend Agard's contract in the summer for an extra year but Evans is considering offering a long-term deal.
However, despite his form and reported interest from other clubs, Evans says Agard must wait until the end of the season along with the rest of the out-of-contract players.
Re: Football Transfer Centre
May 4
Sam Allardyce also spoke about the future of Ravel Morrison.
If Ravel does a good job he will be back with us next year and he will have a big pre-season with us and see where we will go from there.
14:45
Sam Allardyce is expecting a busy summer at West Ham as he looks to avoid any kind of race for Premier League survival.
13:41
Turin based newspaper Tuttosport claims that Juventus have agreed a deal with Manchester United for Nani and will pay around £5million for the Portuguese winger.
13:24
Marc Andre ter Stegen bid a tearful farewell to Borussia Monchengladbach's fans on Saturday before, during and after his final appearance for the club on home soil.
12:08
Sunderland are set to re-open talks with Jack Colback and Phil Bardsley over new deals after they pushed towards Premier League safety.
11:56
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger admits he will be looking to bring in another forward this summer, but it will not be to replace Olivier Giroud.
There is perhaps room for an attacking player who can play in a different position to Giroud. Someone who can play with him as well.
11:36
Rumours are rife that Oscar could be sold by Chelsea this summer and Jose Mourinho has admitted to being disappointed by his form.
11:03
QPR have announced that Dylan Carreiro, David Fitzpatrick, Sam Magri, Emmanuel Monthe, Mo Shariff and Peter Skapetis are all leaving the club. Skapetis has already agreed terms on a move to Stoke City.
QPR FC
@OfficialQPR
YOUNGSTERS RELEASED: Six Under-21s set to leave Loftus Road this summer qprng.rs/fT5wkH #QPR pic.twitter.com/NST8Lv3kiR
May 4, 2014ReplyRetweetFavorite
10:01
We've taken a look through the morning papers to bring you some of the transfer lines doing the rounds:
THE PEOPLE: Manchester City prepare to launch a bid to take Chelsea wonder kid Andreas Christensen.
THE SUN ON SUNDAY: West Ham are set to make a double raid on Sunderland, landing Lee Cattermole and Phil Bardsley.
THE PEOPLE: Striker Wilfried Bony is a target for Arsenal, but Swansea have slapped a £20million price tag on him.
STAR ON SUNDAY: Manchester United are set to launch a new raid for Cesc Fabregas.
You can read the full version of Paper Talk here
Sam Allardyce also spoke about the future of Ravel Morrison.
If Ravel does a good job he will be back with us next year and he will have a big pre-season with us and see where we will go from there.
14:45
Sam Allardyce is expecting a busy summer at West Ham as he looks to avoid any kind of race for Premier League survival.
13:41
Turin based newspaper Tuttosport claims that Juventus have agreed a deal with Manchester United for Nani and will pay around £5million for the Portuguese winger.
13:24
Marc Andre ter Stegen bid a tearful farewell to Borussia Monchengladbach's fans on Saturday before, during and after his final appearance for the club on home soil.
12:08
Sunderland are set to re-open talks with Jack Colback and Phil Bardsley over new deals after they pushed towards Premier League safety.
11:56
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger admits he will be looking to bring in another forward this summer, but it will not be to replace Olivier Giroud.
There is perhaps room for an attacking player who can play in a different position to Giroud. Someone who can play with him as well.
11:36
Rumours are rife that Oscar could be sold by Chelsea this summer and Jose Mourinho has admitted to being disappointed by his form.
11:03
QPR have announced that Dylan Carreiro, David Fitzpatrick, Sam Magri, Emmanuel Monthe, Mo Shariff and Peter Skapetis are all leaving the club. Skapetis has already agreed terms on a move to Stoke City.
QPR FC
@OfficialQPR
YOUNGSTERS RELEASED: Six Under-21s set to leave Loftus Road this summer qprng.rs/fT5wkH #QPR pic.twitter.com/NST8Lv3kiR
May 4, 2014ReplyRetweetFavorite
10:01
We've taken a look through the morning papers to bring you some of the transfer lines doing the rounds:
THE PEOPLE: Manchester City prepare to launch a bid to take Chelsea wonder kid Andreas Christensen.
THE SUN ON SUNDAY: West Ham are set to make a double raid on Sunderland, landing Lee Cattermole and Phil Bardsley.
THE PEOPLE: Striker Wilfried Bony is a target for Arsenal, but Swansea have slapped a £20million price tag on him.
STAR ON SUNDAY: Manchester United are set to launch a new raid for Cesc Fabregas.
You can read the full version of Paper Talk here
Re: Football Transfer Centre
May 7
Thanks for all the contributions earlier on today, we hope you enjoyed the debate. We'll return to the normal slot of Monday for the live Transfer Clockwatch next week.
17:55
Inter Milan captain Javier Zanetti will retire from professional football at the end of the season. What a hero of a man. It seems like he belongs to another generation, when the likes of Christian Vieri and the rotund Ronaldo were at the peak of their powers. I won't ever forget Zanetti's brilliantly well-worked goal against England at France '98.
16:45
Manuel Pellegrini seems pretty focused in this video, anyway.
16:42
Sergio Aguero won't be playing for Manchester City against Aston Villa tomorrow night. Will it make much difference? Probably not.
16:30
Afternoon all - emails to matthew.brocklebank@bskyb.com for the remainder of the day should you still have something to get off your chest.
16:20
Rich: 'Jay, I don't think you'll get as much for Suarez as we got for Bale so we will keep Eriksen and Chiriches and you can have Soldado, Capoue, Chadli, Paulinho and Lamela. Deal?'
15:05
Rob Lynn: 'Catch 22 I suggest Jay. I'm sure we would've been able to sign better players had Bale stayed but you also have CL which is the main thing. If you keep your prized asset I think signing players will be pretty straight forward as long as the wages aren't a stumbling block which I doubt they are. Costa obviously doesn't realize what happens to strikers when they go to Chelsea so I think he's out of the question. No one will touch Falcao until he's proved he's over his ACL injury and even then, he's on 300k a week tax free so who knows if he just wants the money. Cavani is definitely possible, especially if his international teammate is still there and you definitely need 3 strikers to stay competitive in the league as well as the CL. I would guess centre halves will be first on the radar though, Caulker would be a bargain if less than 10m. It's also probably the right time to look for the long term replacement for Gerrard as he'll be 34 in 3 weeks' time.'
14:40
Jay: 'Rob, he would be a huge loss of course, what the impact would be would depend on whom you replace him with. I'm a fan of Costa, Falcao and Cavani but totally different players. I like Bony actually also but it's not just the goals of Suarez, it's his assist ability, he would be very difficult to replace like for like, closest I can think of is Aguero but I don't think we'd get him...'
14:05
Rob Lynn: 'Not looking for a bite here at all, but do the Pool TCers think they would capitulate to the level Arsenal have post Henry if they lost Suarez? If he went, who would you like to replace him assuming he would bring in a monumental fee?'
13:20
Wilfried Bony's agent has insisted that the Ivorian is more than happy to remain at Swansea.
12:25
Ken Livermore: 'I don't know, I go away on holiday, and we are top of the PL, with our fate in our own hands. I come back to a loss against Chelsea, and a bizarre draw against Palace. Honestly, do I have to do it all! To be fair, the fact that us Reds are so disappointed just goes to show the progress we have made. Start of the season we were praying for a top 4 finish, let alone being runners up. Mind you, the way this season has gone could there be one final twist ? We all know that City love to make things difficult for themselves...come on Villa, come on Hammers!'
12:10
Rich Lynn: 'Just seen two news stories. Man City fines £49m over 3 years (wonder if that gets included on bottom line as surely makes matter worse ..lol) and squad restricted to 21 for CL of which 8 must be home grown. Also, there is to be no rise in the CL wage bill. Next story, Man City to bid £164m in the summer for Messi. Ha ha. Assume he won't want any wages...'
Thanks for all the contributions earlier on today, we hope you enjoyed the debate. We'll return to the normal slot of Monday for the live Transfer Clockwatch next week.
17:55
Inter Milan captain Javier Zanetti will retire from professional football at the end of the season. What a hero of a man. It seems like he belongs to another generation, when the likes of Christian Vieri and the rotund Ronaldo were at the peak of their powers. I won't ever forget Zanetti's brilliantly well-worked goal against England at France '98.
16:45
Manuel Pellegrini seems pretty focused in this video, anyway.
16:42
Sergio Aguero won't be playing for Manchester City against Aston Villa tomorrow night. Will it make much difference? Probably not.
16:30
Afternoon all - emails to matthew.brocklebank@bskyb.com for the remainder of the day should you still have something to get off your chest.
16:20
Rich: 'Jay, I don't think you'll get as much for Suarez as we got for Bale so we will keep Eriksen and Chiriches and you can have Soldado, Capoue, Chadli, Paulinho and Lamela. Deal?'
15:05
Rob Lynn: 'Catch 22 I suggest Jay. I'm sure we would've been able to sign better players had Bale stayed but you also have CL which is the main thing. If you keep your prized asset I think signing players will be pretty straight forward as long as the wages aren't a stumbling block which I doubt they are. Costa obviously doesn't realize what happens to strikers when they go to Chelsea so I think he's out of the question. No one will touch Falcao until he's proved he's over his ACL injury and even then, he's on 300k a week tax free so who knows if he just wants the money. Cavani is definitely possible, especially if his international teammate is still there and you definitely need 3 strikers to stay competitive in the league as well as the CL. I would guess centre halves will be first on the radar though, Caulker would be a bargain if less than 10m. It's also probably the right time to look for the long term replacement for Gerrard as he'll be 34 in 3 weeks' time.'
14:40
Jay: 'Rob, he would be a huge loss of course, what the impact would be would depend on whom you replace him with. I'm a fan of Costa, Falcao and Cavani but totally different players. I like Bony actually also but it's not just the goals of Suarez, it's his assist ability, he would be very difficult to replace like for like, closest I can think of is Aguero but I don't think we'd get him...'
14:05
Rob Lynn: 'Not looking for a bite here at all, but do the Pool TCers think they would capitulate to the level Arsenal have post Henry if they lost Suarez? If he went, who would you like to replace him assuming he would bring in a monumental fee?'
13:20
Wilfried Bony's agent has insisted that the Ivorian is more than happy to remain at Swansea.
12:25
Ken Livermore: 'I don't know, I go away on holiday, and we are top of the PL, with our fate in our own hands. I come back to a loss against Chelsea, and a bizarre draw against Palace. Honestly, do I have to do it all! To be fair, the fact that us Reds are so disappointed just goes to show the progress we have made. Start of the season we were praying for a top 4 finish, let alone being runners up. Mind you, the way this season has gone could there be one final twist ? We all know that City love to make things difficult for themselves...come on Villa, come on Hammers!'
12:10
Rich Lynn: 'Just seen two news stories. Man City fines £49m over 3 years (wonder if that gets included on bottom line as surely makes matter worse ..lol) and squad restricted to 21 for CL of which 8 must be home grown. Also, there is to be no rise in the CL wage bill. Next story, Man City to bid £164m in the summer for Messi. Ha ha. Assume he won't want any wages...'
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