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      Gareth Bale signing means Tottenham’s front three are as good as anybody.. even Liverpool

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      THERE has been loads of talk about a bailout this week — but it’s the thought of seeing a Bale in which really excites me.
      The first appearance in the second coming of a man I rated as the third-best player in the world when we last saw him in a Tottenham shirt.

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      Gareth Bale could be set to make his debut for Tottenham against West Ham Credit: Getty Images – Getty

      And that’s not bad given he was trailing only Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo!
      All being well, Gareth Bale will today play his first game in a season-long loan back in N17.
      And we should all be rubbing our hands at the prospect . . . I know I certainly am.

      What a forward line Jose Mourinho has got now — Harry Kane, Son Heung-min  and Bale.
      In my book that stands  comparison alongside Liverpool’s (above) . . .  and  any around in fact.
      Imagine if you’re a defender and you see those three names on the teamsheet. It’s mouth- watering for most but knee- trembling for anyone trying to stop them.
      I’ve heard people saying that the Bale we see now won’t be a patch on the one who left Spurs for Real Madrid seven years ago — but I’m not having that.

      Gareth is a naturally fit lad and looks after himself. And even if he has lost half a yard of pace, possibly even a yard,  so what?

      He was that quick he’ll still be faster than 90 per cent of those he comes up against.
      There is so much of Gareth’s game that reminds me of Ronaldo. It’s scary how good he is.
      Bale can pick the ball up on the edge of his own box and before you know it, he’s beaten half-a-dozen players and is in the opposition one.
      But it’s not all about pace, so forget any idea that he won’t be half the player if he’s not as fast as before.

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      Tottenham will be hoping Bale can replicate the form that led to his megabucks move to Real Madrid Credit: PA:Press Association
      His left foot is like a sledgehammer and he’ll smash a few in from 30 yards, for sure.
      And, like Ronaldo, the rest of his game is so good that you  forget how dangerous he is in the air, too.
      It just amazes me that Zinedine Zidane fell out with him, because Gareth is such a nice kid that I’d think that was almost impossible.
      Maybe Zidane just didn’t fancy him and Tottenham fans should be thanking their lucky stars for that, because it means they’ve got a great player on a great deal.
      Oh, and one more thing for anyone who thinks that at 31 Bale is over the hill . . . he’s four years younger than Ronaldo, so he’s hardly drawing his pension.

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      Tottenham’s summer swoop for Gareth Bale could prove to be a shrewd financial moveCredit: EPA
      Spurs have played a blinder  because they aren’t even paying a fee. There are bang-average players on loan and clubs are forking out £2m or £3m for the privilege.
      Tottenham won’t be paying anything like some of the silly figures I’ve seen guessed at towards his wages either. It’s a great move for Gareth and a great one by Daniel Levy.
      How ironic that he’s likely to make his return for one of my old clubs today against another, in West Ham.
      They’re in good form themselves, so I know they’ll fancy it. But with the squad Spurs have they should be title challengers this year — even if some think I’m mad to say so.

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      Jose Mourinho has some formidable attacking options with Bale, Harry Kane and Son Heung-min in his squadCredit: PA:Press Association
      Pretty much two internationals in every position, strength in depth . . . Jose knows they have got to be in the mix.
      Let’s face it, Spurs should be up there. They’ve got the best stadium, the best training ground and now one of the best squads as well.
      I remember the old training ground wasn’t too shabby either, by the way. It was certainly a world away from the one I left  at Portsmouth when I went there in 2008.
      Actually, we didn’t even have one — our sessions were on a university pitch and we had to be off there at 11am so they could use it.

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      We were training on a public park with no hot water for about four months, with players like Teddy Sheringham, Patrik Berger and Eyal Berkovic.
      I walked into Spurs and thought, ‘This is unbelievable’ — and that was before they moved into the current one.
      When the work started on that, I always wondered why Daniel never asked me where I wanted my office to be.

      Gareth Bale tears up Tottenham training and scores wonder goal leaving fans drooling about first game back More

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      Man Utd eye Federico Valverde transfer as Real Madrid midfielder starts to fulfil potential

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      MANCHESTER UNITED have put Real Madrid’s Uruguay superstar Federico Valverde on their hit-list.
      The midfield magician has pushed his way into the Spanish side’s team this season and started to justify his big reputation.

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      Man Utd have put Real Madrid’s Uruguay superstar Federico Valverde on their wish listCredit: Getty Images – Getty

      Valverde, 22, has been tipped for the top for years but is slowly proving his quality in LaLiga — and long-term admirers United are on red alert.
      And with Paul Pogba openly admitting he likes the idea of a move to Real Madrid in the future, United are keeping an eye on Valverde in case a swap becomes possible.
      Valverde has a £640MILLION buyout clause, which shows how much Real think of him.
      It would be unusual for United to sign a player from a major European rival at his age but Pogba could be a very intriguing pawn in the game.

      Old Trafford boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer had confirmed the club triggered the one-year extension in Pogba’s contract.
      His deal was up at the end of this season with no announcement that the club had taken up the opportunity to extend it by a further year.
      Solskjaer said: “Paul’s our player, he’s going to be here for another two years and sure he’s focused on doing his best for us and we want to see the best from Paul and I’m sure in the next couple of years we’ll get the best out of him.”
      Just last week the Frenchman once again flirted with Real, who he said it would be a ‘dream’ to play for.

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      Paul Pogba said it would be a ‘dream’ to play for Real Madrid Credit: EPA

      Pogba said: “Yes, all footballers would like to play for Real Madrid.
      “Maybe it is a dream. It is a dream for me, why not one day? As I have said, I am at Manchester United and I like my club.
      “I am performing at Manchester United, I am enjoying myself and I want to do everything I can to get the club back to where it deserves to be.
      “I am going to give my maximum, like my teammates. I prefer to concentrate on football and on returning to fitness.”

      Man Utd star Paul Pogba confirms he’d like Real Madrid transfer ‘one day’ but insists he’s happy at Old Trafford More

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      Ronald Koeman blasts back at restless Antoine Griezmann telling him ‘I’m in charge’ as Barcelona row intensifies

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      RONALD KOEMAN has given Antoine Griezmann a verbal dressing down amid reports of a fall out between the pair.
      The Nou Camp boss hit back at the France star after the attacker hinted at being dismayed at playing in a three behind star man Lionel Messi.

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      Ronald Koeman says Antoine Griezmann needs to accept his current playing position at BarcelonaCredit: Reuters

      Barcelona, currently eighth in LaLiga, face Getafe this evening in their fourth game of the season following their surprise 1-1 draw against Sevilla. 
      And Koeman, 57, who criticised Griezmann for missing two gilt-edged chances in that encounter, let reporters know responsibility for team formation rests solely with him. 
      Ahead of the Getafe match the Dutchman told journalists: “I decide based on what’s best for the team. 

      “The coach is in charge and the players must be at their best when they play.
      “I have spoken with Antoine and I told him that I’m looking out for what is best for the team. I think he’s most effective on the right for us
      “He can play in three positions. He could also play as a No 10 or a No 9.
      “In fact, when I was the Netherlands boss, in a game against France, he played on the right against us – which is the same at Barcelona. 

      “I have no problem with Antoine. I can only play one player in each of the three attacking positions. I do not play any players out of position. 

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      Antoine Griezmann is reportedly upset at playing on the right side of a three behind Lionel MessiCredit: Reuters
      “If he has another position that he likes more, that is the situation, but we cannot have 10 players in the same role.”
      Griezmann, 29, who is yet to score for Barcelona this term, is reported to have aimed some veiled barbs at Koeman whilst away on international duty with France.
      And the Frenchman was on target for his country netting in their 2-1 win against Croatia playing in his preferred No10 role during the Nations League clash. 
      Speaking about France coach Didier Deschamp Griezmann said: “The coach knows where to put me. 

      “I take advantage of this situation, of this place, of the confidence of the coach and my team-mates.” 
      Griezmann, 29, was among several Barcelona superstars heavily linked with an exit from the Nou Camp, following the club’s financial struggles in the wake of the Covid-19 crisis.
      The France ace, who completed a £108million move to Barca from Atletico Madrid last year, netted nine goals in 35 La Liga appearances last term. More

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      Atletico hand Torreira No5 shirt worn by Partey in jibe at Arsenal as Ghanaian left under a cloud

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      ATLETICO Madrid have have handed their new signing Lucas Torreira the number 5 shirt in an apparent dig at Thomas Partey.
      The Ghanian midfielder went the other way and joined Arsenal from the Spanish club – but his departure came with controversy due to how the Gunners handled the affair.

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      Atletico show off their new number 5, with Torreira’s new shirt featured alongside Suarez’s Credit: Twitter @atletienglish

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      Partey left in acrimony after Arsenal’s ruthless handling of the transferCredit: Getty Images – Getty

      Torreira’s shirt was revealed by the club’s Twitter account as they hailed their new Uruguayan signings, including Luis Suarez, ahead of their away game at Celta Vigo.
      The 24-year-old takes Partey’s old number as the club appear to signal they have moved on.
      Arsenal’s new man left the club under a cloud on deadline day when the Premier League side reportedly triggered his release clause – without telling his club Atletico.

      The clause made Diego Simeone’s side powerless to prevent him negotiating with the club, but they were left shocked when Arsenal apparently failed to tell them about their actions.
      Instead the London club deposited the funds with the Spanish football authorities, allowing them to discuss personal terms and perform the medical.
      They left La Liga with the duty of informing Atletico their player was close to leaving.
      Arsenal did eventually sign the midfielder for £45million just before the window closed.

      He became the fourth-most expensive investment in the club’s history and their seventh signing of the window.

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      Partey is now the no.18 at Arsenal Credit: Arsenal FC
      Willian joined on a free back in August after he and Chelsea failed to agree terms to renew his contract.
      The other major signings include Gabriel Magalhaes and Pablo Mari.
      Partey could be set for his debut today as Arsenal travel to Manchester City.

      Thomas Partey declares ‘no Thomas, no Partey’ in Instagram greeting to Arsenal fans More

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      Lionel Messi and wife Antonela Roccuzzo show off newest member of family.. a rare Toy Poodle dog called Abu

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      BARCELONA star Lionel Messi has welcomed a new addition to his family – a rare apricot toy poodle at the opposite end of the size scale to his other dog.
      Wife Antonela Roccuzzo showed Abu off on social media, sat on five-year-old son Mateo’s lap, as her footballer husband celebrated Argentina’s 2-1 Copa America win against Bolivia on the other side of the Atlantic.  

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      Lionel Messi has a new family member in a rare apricot toy poodle named AbuCredit: Instagram / @antonelarocuzzo

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      Messi’s new dog is on the opposite end of the size scale to his French mastiff HulkCredit: Instagram / @leomessi

      It was not immediately clear if Messi has already met the new pet in the family or will greet it for the first time when he gets back home.
      But what is clear is that whatever size Abu reaches, he’s never going to get anywhere near as big as the footballer’s French mastiff, Hulk, which was once an adorable puppy before it grew almost as big as his kids. 
      Antonela gifted the 33-year-old their first dog in 2016 and two years later it showed off its size and strength as Messi was filmed teasing him with his dribbling skills in a video which went viral.
      And the pretty brunette was the one to reveal their latest acquisition with the photo of Abu and Mateo.

      A message alongside read: “This is Abu, the new member of the family.”
      Toy poodles grow no more than 10 inches tall from the shoulder and weigh four to six pounds.
      They stop growing aged around six or seven months. 
      They are regarded as high-maintenance dogs which require regular grooming to keep their coat in good condition. 

      By contrast Hulk, one of the oldest French dog breeds also known as a Dogue de Bordeaux, is around 25 inches high and is thought to weigh just over 100 pounds or seven stone.
      Abu reportedly cost Messi and his wife around £800.
      The apricot colour is rare and is believed to be the last poodle colour recorded.

      Lionel Messi trains with the Barcelona squad More

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      Ripped Cristiano Ronaldo showing no coronavirus symptoms with shredded pool pic as mum reveals Juventus ace ‘doing well’

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      CRISTIANO RONALDO did not appear to show any symptoms of coronavirus as he posed for a topless snap by his luxury indoor pool.
      The 35-year-old’s mother has confirmed he is ‘doing well’ after he tested positive on Tuesday while on international duty.

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      Cristiano Ronaldo shared this snap with his 240million Instagram followersCredit: Instagram / @cristiano

      Ronald left Portugal in an air ambulance on Wednesday to continue his self-isolation at his Turin home.
      Italy’s sport minister claimed the former Real Madrid breached coronavirus protocols.
      But Ronaldo was all smiles as he posed for a picture next to his incredible indoor pool.
      Despite having coronavirus, the ripped Portuguese star looked a picture of health.

      Alongside the image, he wrote: “Don’t let what you can’t do get in the way of what you can do.”
      His mother, Maria Dolores, has given fans an update on his condition.
      She told Portuguese source Correio da Manha: “He’s doing well, thank God.
      “Unfortunately I can’t be with him but I’m supporting him from a distance.”

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      Cristiano Ronaldo’s mother has given an update on his condition Credit: Instagram @cristiano

      Dolores confirmed he is in the same house as his stunning wife Georgina and their four children.
      But the incredible mansion is big enough for him to self-isolate without coming into contact with them.
      Georgina and the children tested negative for Covid-19.
      Ronaldo’s mother continued: “He’s in the same house with Georgina and the kids, but in separate spaces and taking great care.
      “Georgina and the children were tested recently and they showed they didn’t have coronavirus but they’re going to test again.”
      Dolores, who suffered a stroke in March, also shared a screenshot of her video call with Ronaldo.

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      Cristiano Ronaldo’s mother shared a screenshot of her video call with the Juventus ace

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      Cristiano Ronaldo’s girlfriend Georgina Rodriguez has tested negative for Covid-19Credit: Getty Images – Getty
      Alongside it, she wrote: “Family… my life.”
      Ronaldo’s sister Katia appeared to rubbish his positive coronavirus test in a bizarre rant.
      Part of her message on Instagram read: “If Cristiano Ronaldo has to wake the world up, I have to say he really is a prophet from God. Thank you.
      “I think thousands of people will believe in the pandemic, in the tests and in the measures that have been taken, just like me.”

      Manager Andrea Pirlo only pockets £1.6million-per-year after taking charge of the club

      Cristiano Ronaldo earns more money than FOUR Serie A teams as Juventus squad’s wages revealed More

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      Real Madrid promote 16-year-old Japanese sensation Takuhiro Nakai to first-team after Takefusa Kubo emergence

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      REAL Madrid wonderkid Takuhiro Nakai has taken a step closer to the big time after joining up with Zinedine Zidane and the first-team squad. 
      The teenage starlet has been training with the LaLiga giants’ senior players during the international break amid rumours he could be in contention for a first-team spot.

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      Takuhiro Nakai is thought to have impressed coaches whilst training with Real Madrid’s senior playersCredit: Getty Images – Getty

      Nakai, 16, who emerged as a young star like Japanese compatriot Takefusa Kubo,  has been making waves in the LaLiga champion’s Under-18 side.  
      But while Marca claims the player has been given a chance to impress first-team coaches, it is thought he is more likely to join Real’s B team, managed by Raul. 
      And Madrid officials have reportedly likened the young playmaker, who shares the same agents as Gareth Bale, to his youth team-mate Kubo.

      Kubo, 19, who is on loan at Villarreal, rose through the ranks of Barcelona’s academy before returning to Japan and later being bought by Real Madrid.
      The winger, who has become buddies with Barcelona whizkid Ansu Fati, was dubbed ‘The Japanese Messi’ after some impressive performances during a loan at Mallorca last term. 
      The player netted four times in 36 appearances for the club across all competitions last term. 
      And he so far has made five first-team appearances for Villarreal, who face Valencia on Saturday afternoon. 

      And his club’s senior side, who are yet to drop a point following their five league opening games, will play Cadiz tomorrow evening. 
      Nakai is thought to be represented by Jonathan Barnett, an agent who also works on behalf of Bernabeu outcast Gareth Bale. 
      Barnett currently runs newly-created ICM Stellar Sports with Nakai regarded as one of their best young talents, according to the Daily Mail.

      Man Utd star Paul Pogba confirms he’d like Real Madrid transfer ‘one day’ but insists he’s happy at Old Trafford More

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      Memphis Depay ‘reaches Barcelona transfer agreement to move in January from Lyon’ after failed summer switch

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      BARCELONA are ready to go back in for Memphis Depay this January after failing with a deadline day swoop.
      The Lyon forward, 26, was left upset having all-but signed for the LaLiga side – before they decided against completing the deal.

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      Memphis Depay is once again waiting on a transfer to BarcelonaCredit: EPA

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      Dutch coach Ronald Koeman is a big fan of his countrymanCredit: EPA

      Reports suggest Barcelona were only able to afford Depay if Ousmane Dembele left.
      But the winger could not complete a move to Manchester United, with the Catalans demanding a permanent transfer.
      Once again, a January move for Depay is based around Barcelona making room for the Dutchman.

      According to Spanish newspaper Sport, a deal is agreed with both the player and Lyon.
      However, either Dembele or Martin Braithwaite must leave first to ensure Barcelona keep on top of their massive wage bill.
      A £95million purchase in 2017, 23-year-old Dembele has struggled to maintain form and fitness.
      Blaugrana boss Ronald Koeman has reportedly sent the winger in for extra training as he enters the last chance saloon at the Camp Nou.

      Meanwhile, emergency February signing Braithwaite, 29, is said to want to stay with the club.

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      Sport’s front page on Friday with a deal said to be agreed

      But Barcelona will reportedly accept a decent return on the £16m they invested in the Danish striker, who has scored once since arriving.
      In contrast, Depay has been on fire for Lyon, reviving his career in France after a flop spell at Manchester United.
      The forward already has four goals to his name this season, including an opening day hat-trick against Dijon.
      And former Netherlands national team coach Koeman, 57, is said to have expressly asked for Depay’s signing.

      Olympique Lyonnais star Memphis Depay shows off his physique as he works out at his luxury villa More