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LIONEL MESSI looks set to miss a number of PSG games after suffering a foot injury. The Argentina star, who has had a tough start to life in Paris, will miss the trip to Metz but could also be unavailable for their Champions League clash with Manchester City.
Derby County have entered administration and have been deducted 12 points by the English Football League.
But transfer news still rolls on with Arsenal set to make a bid for Noa Lang.
Chelsea’s Marcos Alonso will no longer take the knee before games, with the Spaniard preferring to point to the No Room for Racism badge on his sleeve.
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QAT’S IN THE BAG
James Rodriguez has sealed his move from Everton to Qatari club Al Rayyan.
The Colombia international has left the club without playing any games under Rafa Benitez.
It is reported Rodriguez has joined Al Rayyan for an undisclosed fee.
STAND TOGETHER
Premier League and Championship clubs could be set to reintroduce standing areas for fans in 2022.
From January 1 Clubs in the top two tiers will be allowed to apply to set up licensed areas for supporters to stand in.
And Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Man United and Tottenham are among the clubs who have prepared their stadiums for safe standing zones.
Chelsea have brought back rail seating for fans
NOU CAMP BLUES
Barcelona boss Ronald Koeman used his weekly press conference to read out a pre-prepared statement before leaving without answering questions.
The Nou Camp chief has come under pressure with the club currently sitting eighth in LaLiga after two draws and two wins.
In his statement, the Dutchman said: “The club is with me in what is a process of reconstruction.
“The financial situation of the club is linked to the sporting performance of the team.
“That means that we have to rebuild the team without big money to spend and we need time.
“The young talents can be big starts in a couple of years and the good thing about rebuilding the team is that the young players will get their chance just as Xavi and (Andreas) Iniesta had theirs in their day. But patience is necessary.”
UP FOR THE CUP
Did you know, Arsenal have only failed to go beyond the third round of the League Cup in one of the last 18 seasons, losing 2-1 at home to Southampton in 2014-15.
Mikel Arteta will want be eager to avoid another unwanted record next to his name tonight.
LAST TIME OUT IN THE CUP
Wolves and Tottenham last faced in the League Cup in the 1971-72 semi-final, with Spurs winning 4-3 on aggregate before beating Norwich in the final that year.
And in more recent history Spurs have won eight of their last 11 away games against Wolves in all competitions (D2 L1).
They have also already won at Molineux this season, 1-0 in August in the Premier League.
YOU SHER?
Ex-Tottenham manager Tim Sherwood thinks Cristiano Ronaldo could be Manchester United boss within 18 MONTHS.
He told Ladbrokes: “That boy [Ronaldo] will be a manager 100 per cent. I would have a bet on him being Manchester United manager in 18 months.
“Whenever Ronaldo finishes playing I think he will become a manager, it will be an automatic choice.
“If they win the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, any of those trophies, then Solskjaer keeps his job.
“But if they don’t win anything I think they’ve got a manager there in the making.”
DERBY LATEST
EFL Chief Executive Trevor Birch has also spoken on the situation at Pride Park.
He said: “I appreciate that this is a challenging and concerning period for everyone associated with the Club, particularly the staff and supporters, and it is our intention to work proactively with the Administrators and all relevant parties with the objective of securing a long-term and viable future for Derby County.
“We will endeavour to provide timely and relevant updates as appropriate and as and when events unfold over the coming weeks.”
EFL STATEMENT
The EFL have also released a statement after it was confirmed that Derby County have entered administration.
It read: “The EFL can today confirm that, in accordance with EFL Regulations, a 12-point deduction has been immediately applied to Derby County Football Club’s 2021/22 season total.
“This follows the lodging of the Notices of Intention to Appoint Administrators on Friday evening, and the subsequent announcement that the process of appointment was completed earlier today.
“The League has already held initial constructive discussions with the Administrators and will remain in regular dialogue with them as they seek to find the appropriate solutions required to assist the Club as it navigates its way out of insolvency.
“In addition, the League will today be contacting representatives of Rams Trust (the Derby County Official Supporters Trust), DCMS, MPs from the Derby area and other relevant stakeholders inviting them to meet the League to discuss the Club’s position now that Administrators have been appointed.”
FEELING BLUE
John Stones AND Aymeric Laporte are set to miss the two weeks through injury, according to The Telegraph.
It means both defenders will miss three games in what is a hectic period of action for Pep Guardiola’s side.
And the next three games don’t come much bigger.
First up is a trip to Stamford Bridge to take on Chelsea on Saturday.
After that Guardiola and Co make the short trip across the English channel for a mouthwatering clash against PSG.
And then it’s yet another away game, and the destination for that one? Anfield.
SAFE STANDING
Safe standing is set to be trialled in the Premier League and the Championship.
The Sports Grounds Safety Authority will run pilot trials at clubs from January 1, 2022.
It means fans will be legally permitted to stand for entire matches for the first time in over a quarter of a century. 
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DERBY ADMINISTRATION
The Rams enter administration with the club currently 12th in the Championship.
But Wayne Rooney’s side suffered the blow of a 12-point deduction on Friday, which could be doubled if the EFL hit them with another penalty after their long-running dispute over the club’s financial irregularities.
The two-time Division One and one-time FA Cup winners now face a fight not just to stay in the Championship, but also for survival.
DARK DAY FOR DERBY
Some breaking news to report – Derby County have entered administration, it has been confirmed.
Andrew Hosking, Quantuma managing director and joint administrator, said: “I can confirm that Andrew Andronikou, Carl Jackson and I were appointed joint administrators of Derby County Football Club today.
“Covid-19 has had a significant impact on the finances of the club and its long-term ability to continue in its current form.
“We recognise that with the commencement of the 2021/22 season last month, this news will be of concern to stakeholders and fans, in addition to the city of Derby and the wider football community.
“We are in the early stages of assessing the options available to the club and would invite any interested parties to come forward.
“Our immediate objectives are to ensure the club completes all its fixtures in the Championship this season and finding interested parties to safeguard the club and its employees.”
MORE FROM KOEMAN
Barcelona manager Ronald Koeman has revealed he does not have any plans to quit Camp Nou.
Via Fabrizio Romano, Koeman said: “The only way I will quit Barca is when my messages don’t arrive at the players anymore.
“That’s when I will say: ‘Okay, I am done here’. But this is not the case. Every day that I am on the pitch with my players is a nice day.”
RED ALERT
Arsenal fans will be biting their nails ahead of the North London Derby after it was confirmed Craig Pawson would take charge.
The ref is viewed dubiously by the Gunners faithful after controversially sending off two of their men in last season’s defeat by Wolves.
Pawson was in charge for Arsenal’s trip to Molineux back in February in which he showed red cards to David Luiz and Bernd Leno.
It was the treatment of Luiz that most irked Arsenal fans after the defender was sent off for a seemingly accidental trip on Wolves’ Willian Jose.
The red was later revealed to have been justified but at the time appeared harsh on Luiz.
Then-skipper Hector Bellerin also vented his frustration on social media afterwards, tweeting a cryptic image of Pawson fist-bumping with Wolves captain Conor Coady.
Keeper Leno was also shown red in the frantic fixture for a bizarre handball yards outside his box.
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GOT TO KOE
Barcelona manager Ronald Koeman read a defiant statement at a pre-match press conference on Wednesday and then left the ROOM.
The under-fire boss refused to take questions from the media and insists the fans need to have some ‘patience’ as the club is ‘rebuilding’.
Speaking before Barcelona’s LaLiga match against Cadiz on Thursday, Koeman said: “The club is with me as a coach in a rebuilding situation.
“The financial situation of the club is linked to sports performances and vice versa.
“That means that we, as a squad, have to rebuild the football team without being able to make large financial investments. That takes time.
“Today’s young talents can become the new world stars in a couple of years.
“The good thing about rebuilding the team is that young players will have opportunities like Xavi and Iniesta had in their day. But patience is required.”
RON TOP
Manchester United icon Cristiano Ronaldo is the highest-paid footballer on the planet, according to Forbes.
The Portuguese, 36, is expected to earn more than Paris Saint-Germain star Lionel Messi, 34, during the 2021-22 campaign.
The American business magazine claims Ronaldo will earn £92MILLION this season – £51.3m coming from his eye-watering Man Utd salary.
The forward completed a return to Old Trafford on deadline day and the rest of his staggering earnings will come from lucrative endorsements.
These include huge deals with Nike, Tag Heuer and his own CR7 brand, which spans clothing, accessories and hotels.

‘THERE IS NOTHING’
Former Premier Leagye manager and current Belgium boss has been quick to dismiss rumours linking him with the Barcelona hot-seat.
Ronald Koeman is reported to be on borrow time at Camp Nou, but Martinez is not giving anything away.
He told Eurosport: “As you can imagine, there is nothing, really nothing, to comment on from my side.
“Of course, there are always rumours; they are always there. That’s normal in football.
“When you lose three games, the rumours say you’re going to lose your job.
“When things are going well when you have good results, there are also rumours. But there is nothing to comment on me at this moment.”
NUNO TO TAKE THE KNEE
Nuno Espirito Santo has vowed to continue taking the knee, SunSport’s Paul Jiggins reports.
Chelsea defender Marcos Alonso wants to stop the pre-match ritual against discrimination because he feels it has lost impact.
But Tottenham boss Nuno insists he will still do it.
He said: “Yes. I will continue to do so.
“I believe that we must be persistent with the idea and we will achieve. Even the reaction of the fans when we take the knee is very positive.
“It will take time. It is a cultural problem. But it will take time in our society to realise that we are all the same.”
SMITH SPEAKS
Aston Villa boss Dean Smith has confirmed he will make a number of changes to his starting line-up tonight as his side travel to Stamford Bridge to take on Chelsea in the Carabao Cup.
He said: “We’ll have to make some changes.
“We’ve got some players who need game time, some very good players.
“We’ve got a deep squad now and it’s a chance to give some of those players some more minutes after a hindered pre-season.
“But they’re ready to get minutes and make sure that, first of all, we try and progress in this competition, which is want we want to do, make it a really competitive game, but also get them ready as well for the season ahead that we’ve got a lot more games in.”
DID YOU KNOW
Chelsea have progressed from each of their last 10 third round ties in the League Cup since a 4-3 defeat to Newcastle back in 2010-11.
The Blues fell in the fourth round last season, losing on penalties to bitter rivals Tottenham.
And it was also a fourth round exit the season before that, going down 2-1 at home to Manchester United.
MARK HIS WORDS
Mark Noble has broken his silence following his last-gasp penalty miss against Manchester United on Sunday.
The West Ham skipper was introduced by David Moyes in the dying embers of the game to take the penalty after Luke Shaw was penalised for handball, but saw his effort saved by David De Gea.
And as quoted by the Evening Standard, Noble said: “It would have been lovely in my last season to have scored so, obviously, missing hurt.
“The thing I take out of it was that if the manager had asked me and I’d had said ‘No’, that I didn’t want to take it… I can live with missing, that’s not a problem with me, but would I have been able to live with saying no and sitting there and watching somebody else take it, not knowing ‘What if’?
“That would have haunted me for the rest of my life, so I take a bit of strength out of that.”

LAST NIGHT’S RESULTS
And here’s a reminder of the results from last night’s games in the third round of the Carabao Cup:

Brentford 7-0 Oldham
Burnley 4-1 Rochdale
Fulham 0-0 Leeds (5-6 on penalties)
Manchester City 6-1 Wycombe
Norwich 0-3 Liverpool
Preston 4-1 Cheltenham
QPR 2-2 Everton (8-7 on penalties)
Sheffield United 2-2 Southampton (2-4 on penalties)
Watford 1-3 Stoke
Wigan 0-2 Sunderland

CARABAO CUP TIES
Here’s a reminder of the remaining thirs round Carabao Cup ties set to take place this evening.
And don’t forget the draw for the fourth round also takes place tonight.
These are the games still to take place:

Brighton vs Swansea
Arsenal vs AFC Wimbledon
Chelsea vs Aston Villa
Manchester United vs West Ham
Millwall vs Leicester
Wolves vs Tottenham

RON CHANCE ONLY
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Manchester United transfer is make or break for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
That is according to former Red Devil Gary Neville who has heaped pressure on the Norwegian.
He’s scored four in three games – his latest coming in their 2-1 win at West Ham on Sunday.
But despite the good start, Neville, 46, says the 36-year-old needs to keep it up in order to protect Solskjaer.
The Sky Sports pundit told BBC 5 Live: “There is no doubt Ronaldo is a make or break signing for Ole.”
DONE DEAL
James Rodriguez is set to leave Everton.
As per transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, Rodriguez has agreed a deal to sign Qatari side Al Rayyan.
The attacking midfielder is yet to feature for the Toffees this season, and after long being linked with a move away, a deal has finally been done.
And Romano tweeted: “James Rodriguez joins Al Rayyan from Everton, agreement reached and confirmed! Official teaser video already released from Qatari club – salary payment agreed with #EFC board. #JamesRodriguez
“Medical already completed. James now set to leave European football.”
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LIONEL MESSI has suffered a bone contusion that needs more analysis, but it is an injury that could keep him out for PSG’s next few games.The Argentina star, who has had a tough start to life in Paris will miss the trip to Metz, but could also be unavailable for their Champions League clash with Manchester City.
But transfer news still rolls on with Arsenal set to make a bid for Noa Lang.
Meanwhile European giants Juventus and Barcelona are both blundering to draws.
And Ronald Koeman has come under fire at Barca for playing Gerard Pique as a STRIKER.
Chelsea’s Marcos Alonso will no longer take the knee before games, with the Spaniard preferring to point to the No Room for Racism badge on his sleeve.
Lionel Messi’s slow start at Paris Saint-Germain continued on Sunday, despite the Ligue 1 side scoring an injury-time winner over Lyon.
The Argentine star was subbed off in the second half and brushed past manager Mauricio Pochettino’s offer of a handshake.
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HUNGARY’S STADUM BAN FOR RACISM
Hungary have been handed a two-match stadium ban and a massive fine after fans racially abused England’s stars, writes CHARLIE WYETT.
Fifa have dished out the punishment – which includes a £160,000 fine – due to the trouble in the stadium during England’s 4-0 win in Budapest on September 2.
Raheem Sterling and Jude Bellingham were among the players racially abused while fans also threw objects onto the pitch during the match,
Supporters will be banned from the World Cup qualifier against Albania on October 9 while the second match ban will be suspended for a period of two years.
In a statement, Fifa said “The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has imposed a ban and a substantial fine on the Hungarian Football Federation (MLSZ) in relation to the racist behaviour of numerous supporters during the Fifa World Cup Qatar 2022 qualifying match between Hungary and England on 2 September 2021.
“After analysing and taking into consideration all the circumstances of the case, specifically the seriousness of the incidents (racist words and actions, throwing of objects, lighting of fireworks, blocked stairways), the Committee decided that the MLSZ would play its next two home matches in Fifa competitions without spectators, the second match being suspended for a probationary period of two years.
“In addition, the Committee imposed a fine of CHF 200,000 (£160,000).”
FURNITURE’S NOT A KEEPER
Fans have been left stunned after former Brighton and Arsenal goalkeeper Maty Ryan started selling his furniture online.
Ryan, 29, moved to Brighton in 2017 on a five-year deal after the club was promoted to the Premier League for the first time.

He was the No1 stopper until December last year when he lost his first team place and eventually went out on loan to Arsenal for the remainder of the season.
But after he moved to LaLiga club Real Sociedad in July, the Australian keeper has stuck his second-hand belongings from his flat overlooking Brighton beach up for sale via his Twitter page.
He tweeted pictures of the items for sale.
And the Aussie wrote: “Four years old. One double bed, one L-shaped sofa and one circular glass table with four dining table chairs.
“Kept in good condition. Currently in storage, pictures attached. Contact email below for any interest/inquiries.”
Guðjón Arsenal Kristjánsson replied: “Mate you earn £50k-a-week and you’re selling your furniture for shop money.”
Daniel Watson said: “Surely this is a p*** take?! Making millions each year and trying to sell a few pieces of furniture via Twitter.Just donate them man!!”
And Arsenal fan Mkhitozil joked: “Can I take the couch. Loan with option to buy?”
WHY HE’S IN A MESS
Lionel Messi is yet to prove his worth at Paris Saint-Germain following his summer arrival – here JAKE LAMBOURNE assesses the potential reasons.

PERSONAL PROBLEMS
Despite arriving to the country in August, Messi, his wife Antonela and their three children, are yet to find a permanent residence to live in.
They are currently staying at the Royal Monceau, a five-star hotel which is said to be setting him back a whopping £17,000-A-NIGHT.
NOT THE MAIN MAN
Messi was undoubtedly the top dog in Catalonia, but Neymar and World Cup winner Kylian Mbappe are the top two players at the club.
This was highlighted when the duo stayed on the pitch against Lyon when looking for a winner, while right-back Achraf Hakimi replaced Messi.
INJURY
But one explanation that Messi was hooked could be due to him possibly being injured. But Pochettino declared that he was substituted for tactical reasons and that Messi was ‘okay’ as he walked to the dugout.
HOMESICK
During his emotional press conference last month where he announced he will be leaving Barcelona, he declared he wanted to stay. But La Liga regulations prevented Barca from re-acquiring their all-time top goalscorer’s services.
TUCHEL’S TRANSFORMED RUDIGER
Rio Ferdinand believes Chelsea star Antonio Rudiger has become the best centre-back in the Premier League under Thomas Tuchel.
But the Manchester United icon’s high opinion of the Germany international, 28, does not reflect this season’s Prem stats.
Ferdinand said on his YouTube channel: “Since Tuchel has come I think he’s arguably been the best centre-back.
“I think him and [Ruben] Dias would have been close but the effect he has had on his team has been immense.

“Under Frank [Lampard], it was evident he wasn’t Frank’s cup of tea. He didn’t really like him.
“There were rumours they were trying to put him in the market to be sold.
“In Germany, he’s always been highly thought of.
“But when the manager doesn’t rate you and you can feel that, I don’t care who you are your confidence takes a beating and it’s hard to perform.”
RIO DENIES RIFT AS HE URGES OLE TO CALL HIM
Rio Ferdinand has sought to dampen talk of a rift between himself and Manchester United gaffer Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. 
And the Old Trafford hero insists ‘it’s all love’ with the Red Devils chief whilst urging Solskjaer to call him. 

The Norwegian, 48, whose side will play West Ham in the League Cup on Wednesday night,  recently dismissed the ex-Three Lions ace’s observations on Cristiano Ronaldo and Phil Jones. 
However, the former Red Devils centre-back has opted to ease any tension following some public exchanges between the pair. 
On his most recent Vibe with Five show, Ferdinand, 42, said: “He came for me, I can’t believe it!  
“When I see Ole, I’m going to give him a big hug. I’m going to shake his hand and say, ‘it’s all love, I love you, man!’ I’m his biggest fan. 
“Some stuff is said in the heat of the moment, and you get things wrong here and there. It’s a phone call, man, just call me.
“Ole’s at the wheel, it wasn’t happening until I said it. I’ve got no beef, I’ve got no beef with anyone at Man United.”
DORTMUND FIGHT TO KEEP BELLINGHAM AND HAALAND
Borussia Dortmund boss Marcos Rose is determined to keep Erling Haaland and Jude Bellingham at the club.
He said: “The two boys are currently players with us.
“We are happy to have them and anything else is just rumours. In the summer, we will see how it goes for both players.
“But I will do everything to ensure they stay. Tie them down (to new contracts)? No idea (what the future holds), let’s see.”
LEX IS MORE
Inter Milan are desperate to flog Alexis Sanchez to cut their wage bill, reports claim.
The 32-year-old is one of Inter’s highest earners on a salary of around £115,000-a-week despite not being a regular starter at the club.
Despite playing 30 Serie A games for Inter last season, scoring and providing seven goals as they lifted the Scudetto, the Italians don’t think he is worth his wages, Inter Live report.
In addition to this, the winger spent most of the summer injured, and has only recently returned to action, further frustrating the club’s hierarchy and fans.

‘IMMENSE’
Rio Ferdinand believes Chelsea star Antonio Rudiger has become the best centre-back in the Premier League under Thomas Tuchel.
Hesaid on his YouTube channel: “Since Tuchel has come I think he’s arguably been the best centre-back.
“I think him and [Ruben] Dias would have been close but the effect he has had on his team has been immense.
“Under Frank [Lampard], it was evident he wasn’t Frank’s cup of tea. He didn’t really like him.
“There were rumours they were trying to put him in the market to be sold. In Germany, he’s always been highly thought of.
“But when the manager doesn’t rate you and you can feel that, I don’t care who you are your confidence takes a beating and it’s hard to perform.”

VAR VA VOOM
Manchester United defender Raphael Varane hopes that compatriot Paul Pogba, who has entered the final year of his contract, stays at Old Trafford for a ‘long time’.
He told TV2: “It is of course his decision, but of course I hope he stays here for a long time.
“He is a fantastic player, so undoubtedly I hope he stays.”

GUNNER HAPPEN?
Former Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has revealed he is open to a sensational return to management after three years out.
The 71-year-old, who is currently Fifa’s Chief of Global Football Development, departed North London in 2018 after 22 years in charge of the Gunners.
But in a recent interview with the Telegraph, Wenger has declared he hasn’t ruled out a return to the dugout, admitting: “Overall we have to accept that our days come to an end at some stage.
“I don’t rule it out, but I am completely focused (on Fifa) and I don’t worry too much about the rest.
“There are always people who say ‘You are too old’ so at the time, maybe I thought they were right.
“But I am in good shape and I have not completely decided not to do it anymore.”

TELL ME MORE
Manchester United full-back Alex Telles is on the verge of a first-team return.
The injured star, who is yet to feature at all this season, told the Red Devils’ club media: “I feel good.
“Things happen in football. I wasn’t very happy about that [the injury] but I took advantage of the situation by working harder.
“I feel better than before, I feel better prepared and stronger, physically and mentally. I’m much better and I’m thrilled to be back.
“Whenever I get the chance to play, I’ll give everything for Manchester United to win the lot.”

ON THE BOX
DAZN are reportedly in ‘advanced talks’ to buy BT Sport and take over their Premier League broadcasting rights, according to reports.
The streaming service, owned by billionaire Sir Leonard Blavatnik, broadcasts sporting events all over the world and now want to establish a foothold in the UK.
In July, DAZN signed a five-year-deal with boxing promoter Eddie Hearn’s company Matchroom to cover their events.
Chairman Kevin Mayer was asked whether DAZN could buy BT Sport this week, to which he answered ‘possibly’, and went on to add that they ‘would love to have the EPL’.
Now The Financial Times claims that ‘an agreement between the two companies could be struck within weeks’.

RING RIO
Rio Ferdinand has sought to dampen talk of a rift between himself and Man United gaffer Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
On his most recent Vibe with Five show, Ferdinand, 42, said: “He came for me, I can’t believe it!
“When I see Ole, I’m going to give him a big hug. I’m going to shake his hand and say, ‘it’s all love, I love you, man!’ I’m his biggest fan.
“Some stuff is said in the heat of the moment, and you get things wrong here and there. It’s a phone call, man, just call me.
“Ole’s at the wheel, it wasn’t happening until I said it. I’ve got no beef, I’ve got no beef with anyone at Man United.”

BONE TO PICK
Lionel Messi suffered a ‘bone contusion’ in his left knee against Lyon on Sunday, PSG have confirmed.
Manager Mauricio Pochettino raised eyebrows as he substituted the 34-year-old, with Messi himself looking frustrated.
But it turns out that the former Barca ace had picked up a knock, and is now being assessed by PSG doctors.
Credit: Rex
QAT’S OUT THE BAG
James Rodriguez is on the verge of a surprise loan move from Everton to Qatar’s top flight, according to reports.
Italian football expert Fabrizio Romano claims the Toffees outcast is wanted by Qatari club Al-Rayyan.
Romano says transfer discussions between the club and representatives of the Colombia forward are ongoing.
And it is claimed the Goodison Park side, who play QPR in the Carabao Cup later, are waiting for a decision from the player.
It is thought that talks are currently focused on the wage details surrounding a potential temporary switch.

MESSI STATE
Former Paris Saint-Germain star Jerome Rothen has slammed Mauricio Pochettino for substituting Lionel Messi in Sunday’s win against Lyon.
He told RMC Sport: “There was a total misunderstanding. We saw it, Lionel Messi wanted to stay on the pitch. Pochettino made his decision in his heart and conscience.
“Where I find it completely inappropriate on the part of Pochettino, it’s that he’s never been like that with the other stars of the team. Since he arrived, whether it was Neymar or [Kylian] Mbappe, he always left them on the pitch, even when they were bad.
“He has always protected them unlike other players like [Angel] Di Maria, [Leandro] Paredes, [Mauro] Icardi. Then, Lionel Messi arrives, in terms of status and aura, Messi is much superior to Neymar and Mbappe.
“We are talking about Lionel Messi, the best player on the planet. He has a special status. We must avoid misunderstandings with your top player, especially from his first start at the Parc des Princes.
“There are so many signs that are not good. It’s a big mistake from Mauricio Pochettino, he should have left him on the pitch. I don’t know what he played. Did he want to mark his territory? I do not hope, because there, he is completely crazy. We do not cry genius there.
“You are going to put your best player on your back. It leaves traces, this kind of event. And the image is terrible. He made a serious mistake. Pochettino crashed there.”

SILVA LINING
Thiago Silva’s stunning performance for Chelsea against Tottenham had John Terry wanting to get in on the action too.
The 36-year-old veteran put in a stellar shift in the heart of the defence and managed to get on the score-sheet during the Blues 3-0 win over Spurs.
And Terry, 40, wished he was right next to the Brazilian bossing the game as he did in his heyday.
After his MOTM display, which helped catapult the Blues to the top of the Premier League table, Silva took to Twitter to thank the club.
Terry, was one of the first to respond, full of praise for Silva while also revealing it would be a dream to play with him.
Terry gushed: “@thiagosilva What a player, I wish I had the pleasure to play alongside you mate. LEGEND.”

TARGET MARQ-ED
Chelsea tried to sign PSG captain Marquinhos this summer, according to reports.
RMC in France claim that the Blues had been willing to offer as much as £85million for the 27-year-old.
But PSG were having none of it, however, and the Brazilian wasn’t interested in leaving either.
Making the move to the European champions could have seen Marquinhos reunite with former partner and Selecao team-mate Thiago Silva.
Credit: Getty
FOR BLIMEY
Nottingtham Forest have unveiled former Swansea boss Steve Cooper as Chris Hughton’s successor on a two-year deal.
Upon announcing the appointment, Forest chief executive Dane Murphy said: “Steve was our first choice as head coach and we are delighted to have secured his services. His record of developing young talent is exceptional.
“Steve knows what is required to be successful in the Championship and has a proven track record with Swansea.
“We have reduced the age of our squad over the summer and Steve is the ideal coach to blend a team to start moving us up the table.
“On behalf of the owner and the Board, we welcome Steve to the club and look forward to providing every support he needs to be a success at Nottingham Forest.”

‘SAGNA VIBES’
Arsenal fans have likened new signing Takehiro Tomiyasu to former Gunner Bacary Sagna.
Tomiyasu – a £20million arrival from Italian side Bologna – made his debut for the north Londoners in their 1-0 victory over Norwich earlier this month.
But the Japan international got Gunners fans wagging their tongues with a stellar display against Burnley last weekend.
The 22-year-old had the most touches out of any Arsenal player, 79, and won 100 per cent of his duels with Burnley’s attackers.
And to top it off, he made five recoveries and five clearances.
The Emirates faithful were thrilled by what they saw of their new full-back, who some reckoned showed similar qualities to the beloved Sagna.
One said: “Don’t know if it was the style of the game, but Tomiyasu reminded me of Sagna today.
“So defensively solid, kept it simple with passing and you almost overlooked how good he was.”

CASH-ING IN
Aston Villa defender Matty Cash is on the verge of being called-up by Poland after applying for a passport.
The Slough-born full-back, 24, is eligible to represent Poland through his mum and could accept the call from manager Paulo Sousa.
Cash’s dad Stuart – a former player with Chesterfield – told Polish outlet SportoweFakty his son has applied for a Polish passport.
He said: “We are in the process of collecting the necessary papers for Matty to obtain Polish citizenship.
“We started this process a few months ago, it should be finished soon. We are cooperating with the Polish branch in London on this matter.”

ALL GONE RON
Barcelona fans are calling for boss and club legend Ronald Koeman to be sacked after playing Gerard Pique as a STRIKER.
The Spanish club are struggling for goals after allowing star forwards Lionel Messi and Antoine Griezmann to leave in the summer.
Barca needed a 90th-minute equaliser against Granada on Monday evening to secure a 1-1 draw and maintain their unbeaten start in LaLiga.
A late goal from defender Ronald Araujo spared Koeman’s blushes but the manager was still heavily criticised for the team’s woeful performance.
KoemanOUT was trending on Twitter throughout Monday evening and many were perplexed as to why Pique was playing up front.
The Spanish defender was brought on in the 75th minute and did make an impact, controlling the ball in the box for Gavi, 17, to assist the goal.
Credit: Reuters
DOM THE ONE
Man Utd are interested in signing Tottenham midfielder Tanguy Ndombele, according to reports.
It’s believed the Red Devils will try to sign the France international, 24, if Paul Pogba leaves Old Trafford next summer.
According to Italian outlet CalcioMercato, Man Utd want to ‘protect’ themselves from losing Pogba, 28, at the end of the season.
Pogba’s current deal expires in June and it’s unclear at this stage whether he will put pen to paper on a contract extension.
And rumours suggest the Premier League side have identified Ndombele as a potential replacement for the World Cup winner.
KANE CONTINUED
Jamie O’Hara added: “When it was [Steven] Bergwijn, [Lucas] Moura and [Heung-min] Son up front, we sat in, we were composed, we soaked up the pressure and tried to hit teams on the counter attack.
“Harry Kane has come back and he’s trying to do everything. For some parts of the game he’s playing as a holding midfielder!
“They are doing too much, we need you to play up front and where things can happen. I feel like he’s slowing things down for us a little bit at the minute.
“You can’t criticise him for what he is and what he’s done for the football club, but at the moment he’s not playing very well for us.”
KANE’S NOT ABLE
Former Tottenham star Jamie O’Hara says he preferred watching his old club when Harry Kane WAS NOT playing.
Speaking on talkSPORT, O’Hara said: “It’s a tough one for me as Harry Kane is Mr Tottenham, in my opinion, but I look at his body language and look at the way he’s playing and he’s not playing very well.
“I kind of enjoyed Spurs at the beginning of the season when he didn’t play.
“I know that sounds bad because he is a great player and he is someone who you need in your team, but he’s come back into the team and we can’t win.”
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IT was another dramatic weekend in the Premier League as Chelsea went top following a 3-0 win at London rivals Tottenham.Elsewhere in the capital, Arsenal are reportedly eyeing a bid for Club Brugge star Noa Lang.
Lionel Messi’s slow start at Paris Saint-Germain continued on Sunday, despite the Ligue 1 side scoring an injury-time winner over Lyon.
The Argentine star was subbed off in the second half and brushed past manager Mauricio Pochettino’s offer of a handshake.
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TRIPLE THREAT
Barcelona are reportedly preparing a triple swoop that includes Manchester United star Paul Pogba, whose contract runs out in the summer.
Barca are also keeping tabs on Borussia Dortmund superstar Erling Haaland and RB Leipzig ace Dani Olmo next summer.
That is according to Mundo Deportivo, Barca have set their sights on the trio after managing to reduce their wage bill from 100 per cent to 80 per cent of their total income.
The Blaugrana were limited in their transfer business this summer due to the wage cap set by La Liga.
But after losing Lionel Messi to Paris Saint-Germain and Antoine Griezmann to Atletico Madrid the Catalans are now in a better position financially
LANG STORY
Arsenal are preparing a £20million bid for Brugge starlet Noa Lang ahead of the January transfer window.
Lang enjoyed a sensational campaign with the Belgian champions last season with 17 goals and 11 assists.
The winger has carried that superb form into the start of the new season where he has already hit the back of the net four times and registered another four assists.
And he also caught the eye in the Champions League last week when he was named man of the match in his team’s 1-1 draw with Paris Saint-Germain.
According to Fichajes, the Gunners are impressed with the 22-year-old Dutchman and are thus keeping tabs on him
NEVILLE ADVICE
Gary Neville believes the team with the best chances of winning the Premier League will be the one that overcomes Chelsea.
That was a message to the likes of Manchester City, Manchester United and Liverpool.
The Blues have been on a roll ever since winning the Champions League title as they are undefeated in the league with four wins in five matches.
Neville told Sky Sports: “If you are Manchester City, Manchester United, Liverpool or any other team that has aspirations to win this title, then you will fancy your chances if you finish above this Chelsea team because they look really, really good”
BLUE BEAUTY
SunSport exclusive by Duncan Wright
Andreas Christensen is ready to sign a new deal with Chelsea – after the club initially offered a pay CUT when they first began negotiations.
Christensen has finalised talks with the European champions with the fine touches over a new deal thought to be worth £120,000-a-week now being rubber stamped before an official announcement.
It was a fitting reward for the way the 25-year-old has responded to being touted around for sale 18 months ago to now being a first team regular at Stamford Bridge.
But SunSport understands the Danish defender had initially been so under-valued by the club they tabled an initial contract offer which was lower than the current £78,000-a-week he earns.
That deal runs out at the end of this season and though the Blues were happy to keep him as a squad player at the time, they felt his role on the fringes was not worthy of a top salary.
Since then Christensen has made such dramatic strides, particularly under Thomas Tuchel, he is now seen as integral to the defence.

UNITED FRONT
Cristiano Ronaldo and Dean Henderson have offered their support to English striker Danny Hodgson after he spent his 26th birthday in intensive care.
The Manchester United stars have wished the star well after he was critically injured in an unprovoked attack at a train station in Perth, Australia, on September 4.
Former Carlisle player Hodgson, who was part of the club’s academy alongside Henderson, was struck from behind while celebrating the end of the National Premier League’s Western Australia football season with his club ECU Joondalup.
He is now in a critical but stable condition after being placed in an induced coma, with his parents flying out to Perth to be by his side.
But due to the strict hotel quarantine rules in Australia due to coronavirus, they are unable to visit him in hospital.
Hodgson’s story has sparked mass support from the football community in the United Kingdom and Australia, with Ronaldo inviting him to see a game at Old Trafford once he is better.
In a video sent to Hodgson, he said: “Hi Danny, I just hear about your history and I hope you get well soon.
“I invite you to come to one of [our] games in Manchester, so get well soon my friend. Take care.”
MANE THREAT
Sadio Mane couldn’t resist taking a swipe at Crystal Palace after scoring in Liverpool’s 3-0 win over them at the weekend.
The Senegalese striker scored his 13th goal in nine consecutive games against the Eagles and joked that he wouldn’t mind playing them all the time.
He told BBC Sport: “I am lucky to score so many goals against Palace.
“I would love to play against Crystal Palace… it would be great to play them every single weekend.
“In my head, I am always thinking it is possible. I will keep trying and trying and trying.”

I’LL BE BA-CK
Demba Ba is considering a return to English football – as a sporting director.
The former Chelsea, Newcastle and West Ham striker announced his playing retirement last week after leaving Swiss club Lugano.
Ba, 36, told Sport-Express.ru: “I would be happy to become a sporting director in future. I want to learn from Ralf Rangnick. I couldn’t imagine anyone better than him to learn from, as he is the best.
“I have kept in touch with him since leaving Hoffenheim, and he had a big impact on my playing career.
“Now he will influence my post-playing career as well. I will learn from him as long as we are both alive. Everyone knows that Thomas Tuchel studied directly with Rangnick.
“Ralph’s ideas inspired Jurgen Klopp, and many other coaches. He changed German football. Of all the countries I have played in, England was the one most right for me.”

BERND OUT
Former Tottenham goalkeeper Paul Robinson believes Mikel Arteta has created a ‘big problem for himself’ following the arrival of Aaron Ramsdale.
Speaking to Football Insider, he said: “He [Leno] will get angry because his mental state is not right. His head is not in the right place.
“It is difficult as a goalkeeper when you are in and out of the side. Goalkeepers like to know if they are number one or number two.
“When there is a pecking order and you are told where you are in the pecking order you can accept it. You do not want to be fighting for your place every week.
“I cannot understand the signing of Ramsdale. He’s not any better than Leno.
“I think Arteta has just created a big problem for himself. He now has two goalkeepers of similar ability who both want to play.
“Ramsdale is talented but he makes a lot of errors that lead to goals.
“If Arteta wanted to replace Leno he should have gone out and signed a top-class goalkeeper. What he’s bought is not better than what he’s got.”

SHEAR BRILLIANCE
Alan Shearer has named his Premier League team of the week for matchday five.
What do we reckon, football fans?

RICE IS TWICE AS NICE
Roy Keane believes Declan Rice is ‘way ahead’ of where he was when he was the same age as the England star.
The Ireland legend was full of praise for the West Ham star before their Premier League clash with Manchester United on Sunday.
He told Sky Sports: “I think Declan’s improved as much as any player over the last one or two seasons.
“I know he’s been linked with Man United and if you’d have asked me a year or two ago, I would have thought give him another year or two in terms of maturing.
“I look to where I was when I was 22, I think he’s way ahead of me when I was 22.
“I think the next step will come when he’s playing at a higher level, Champions League, competing for trophies. He’s obviously a regular for England. There’s a lot more to come from him.”

SHEAR HELL
Newcastle legend Alan Shearer has voiced his concerns about the running of the club.
Speaking on Match of the Day, Shearer opened up in a passionate rant about the club’s affairs off the pitch after their 4-1 defeat to Manchester United.
He said: “I hate what my club is or has become. It’s been a long time now, it’s a hollow and an empty football club. There’s no hope or ambition and I’m pretty sick of it to be honest. It’s copy-paste-repeat every season.
“They give players who have been at the football club new contracts because they can’t sell them on. Then they have an excuse that they can’t bring other players into the football club because those players are being paid a salary.
“It’s cheaper to keep them on the books rather than buying other players. The fans deserve better. Every manager has the same problems – as I said, it’s copy-paste-repeat every season.”

NOU ORDER
Barcelona will reportedly make a triple swoop for Borussia Dortmund’s Erling Haaland, Manchester United’s Paul Pogba and RB Leipzig’s Dani Olmo next summer.
The Catalan giants have set their sights on the trio after managing to reduce their wage bill from 100 per cent to 80 per cent of their total income, Mundo Deportivo reported.
Barca were limited in their transfer activities this summer due to the wage cap set by La Liga, but after flogging Lionel Messi to Paris Saint-Germain and Antoine Griezmann to Atletico Madrid they are now in a better position financially.

KEEP YOUR GARD UP
Manchester United fan Tyson Fury has praised Jesse Lingard after his winning goal against West Ham on Sunday.
The 28-year-old England international came off the bench to fire the Red Devils to a dramatic 2-1 victory at the London Stadium with a sensational strike.
And Fury, who is a big Man Utd supporter, reacted to Lingard’s goal on social media after the match.
Speaking on Twitter, he said: “‘It ain’t how hard you hit; it’s about how hard you can get hit, and keep moving forward.
“How much you can take, and keep moving forward.’ #Jlingz.”

MOUR CONFUSION
Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti has backed Roma to win Serie A under Jose Mourinho in a curious show of support.
The relationship between the two managers remains confusing as the Portuguese branded the Italian ‘dumb’ but later claimed he ‘loves’ him.
Speaking to Gianluca di Marzio via Get Italian Football News, Ancelotti said: “I hope that the Giallorossi [Roma] win with Jose Mourinho.”
Roma are currently third in Serie A after picking up nine points from their opening four fixtures, losing 3-2 at Hellas Verona on Sunday.
Real, meanwhile, are currently two points clear at the top of LaLiga after making an unbeaten start to the season under Ancelotti.

‘THE BEST MEDICINE’
Brazil legend Pele punched the air in celebration as he left intensive care this morning.
The 80-year-old caused fresh fears for his huge fan base as it emerged he had been readmitted to intensive care after his operation.
The former Santos’ striker was discovered to have had a colon tumour when he went into hospital for routine examinations at the end of August.
His surgery to remove it took place on September 4 and he had been expected to leave intensive care last week.
Pele initially left the intensive care unit (ICU) on Tuesday after undergoing his op. surgery to remove a tumour from his colon.
But the iconic footballer returned to the ICU after falling ill while still in Albert Einstein Hospital in Sao Paulo, Brazil, on Friday.
Now he has offered a positive update on his condition by sharing a snap of him in a wheelchair punching the air with delight while leaving ICU again.
The three-time World Cup winner captioned it with: “As you can see, I’m punching the air in celebration of every better day.

EYES OPEN
Roma boss Jose Mourinho says he’s creating a monster out Tammy Abraham for Gareth Southgate to use for England.
And the 58-year-old reckons if the Three Lions coach can’t see Abraham’s ability then his eyes have to be dodgy.
Speaking before Roma’s 3-2 loss against Hellas Verona, which was Mourinho’s first Serie A defeat with the club since taking charge, he said: “I am trying to create a monster of a forward for Gareth Southgate.
“Unless he doesn’t have proper eyes and still not call him up with the England national team, then I would suggest for Tammy to switch countries.”
“He deserves more caps under his name.”
DIER STRAITS
Eric Dier says Spurs need to be smarter to stop their slump, after their 3-0 defeat to Chelsea.
He said: “We played very well in the first half and we have to focus on that. We have to take the positives from that and build on it. Second half, they were the better team.
“We conceded the first goal very early in the second half and then lacked a bit of control to stay in the game and not concede the second. We needed to try to build and get back to the way we were playing.
“But we conceded again and it became very difficult. We lacked that control a little bit but they were sloppy goals, all three of them.
“We can do so much better. We were a little erratic in that moment.
“We need to just be a bit smarter, stay in the game for five minutes and try to get back on the front foot.”

QAT OUT THE BAG
Everton star James Rodriguez is set to leave Goodison Park.
According to multiple reports, the Colombian has flown to Qatar to seal a move to the Middle East.
The Colombian, 30, joined the Toffees from Real Madrid last year.
But he hasn’t featured at all under new boss Rafa Benitez.
Credit: Getty
NOT GUNNAR COMMENT
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has dismissed any talk of a Premier League title challenge despite Manchester United’s strong start to the domestic campaign.
When asked about a tilt at the Premier League, he told Sky Sports: “You’re not going to get me on that one now.
“It’s five games into the season. I was probably down and out and lost my job yesterday. That’s the way it is at Man United.
“We deserved three points. It’s a hard place to come, here. Hopefully these points can make a difference.
“Let’s see [about the title] when we get towards April and May.”

GUNNDERKIDS
Arsenal’s Under-23s thumped London rivals Chelsea 6-1 at Kingsmeadow despite being reduced to 10 men after just 35 minutes.
Mika Biereth, 18, netted a hat-trick for the Gunners as they ran riot away from home to secure a fourth win in a row in the Premier League 2.
Folarin Balogun also grabbed two goals, while Blues defender Lewis Hall’s own goal made it 6-0, before he then added a consolation at the right end.

FER GOODNESS SAKE
Phil Jones was disappointed by former team-mate Rio Ferdinand’s claim that he is a ‘waste of time’.
He told The Times: “I’m private, so maybe people don’t understand me, but (…) I’ve done my absolute utmost.”

PHIL FOR HIM
Manchester United defender Phil Jones has revealed that he has ‘been to hell and back’.
The 29-year-old told The Times: “Thankfully, I see the light at the end of the tunnel now, and I’ve been back training, played a few behind-closed-doors games and I’m feeling really good at the minute.
“It’s so good to be back out training with the lads and enjoying being a footballer again because for the last 15 months, it’s been all ‘daddy day care’ and not much football.
“I kept myself in great shape over lockdown and came back. But I remember just training out here [Carrington] and going into the doc and saying ‘enough is enough’.
“Unfortunately, there was going to be time off the pitch, which I knew was going to be difficult for me, but it was something that I had to do.
“Obviously, I’ve been through hell and back over the last couple of years. I struggled with my knee a little bit and [there] came a point after lockdown where I thought enough was enough.”

BLUNT RESPONSE
Pep Guardiola insists that signing a new striker over the summer would not have helped Manchester City beat Southampton.
The champions were held by the Saints to a goalless draw at the Etihad on Saturday and registered just one shot on goal.
But Guardiola is adamant that the lack of a new No9 was not to blame for the stalemate against the well-disciplined Southampton team.
He said: “Today we didn’t win not because we didn’t have a centre-forward, we didn’t win because our process to make the buildup or give better balls for players up front were not good.
“When they are good, they can run, arrive in other positions. We had just one shot on target but they had four or five blocks in the six-yard box so they were there.
“But that is not the reason. The reason is because we didn’t do our process for our back four and Fernandinho. The five guys who have to bring the ball to the other players were not good today.”

LANG STORY
Arsenal are preparing to bid £20million for Club Brugge winger Noa Lang, according to reports.
The 22-year-old Dutch winger enjoyed a sensational campaign with the Belgian side last season, scoring 17 goals and assisting 11 as Brugge won the title by a huge 16 points.
Lang has carried that superb form into the start of the new season where he has already netted four times and laid on another four assists.
And he also caught the eye in the Champions League last week when he was named man of the match in their 1-1 draw with Paris Saint-Germain.
Lang, who features predominantly on the left wing, is a product of the Ajax youth set-up but left the club in 2020 having made just 14 appearances for the Eredivisie side.
His development at Brugge has been a rapid one and now Fichajes are reporting that he is being looked at as an option for Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal.

LING OF DUTY
Manchester United are reportedly in ‘direct contact’ with Jesse Lingard’s father over a new contract.
The England international attacker reignited his faltering career with a stunning loan spell at West Ham last season.
Lingard returned to haunt his old club by coming off the bench yesterday to fire United to a 2-1 win.
Now United are believed to be doing everything to secure the future of the ace after he initially rejected their first extension proposal.
That is according to journalist Fabrizio Romano, who claims the club and Lingard’s father have been in ‘direct contact’ for ‘weeks’ already.
The Italian also claims that ‘Solskjaer is pushing directly with the player’ in order to get him to stay.

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