Gateshead 2 - 2 FC Halifax Town

FC Halifax Town claimed a valuable Boxing Day point in a 2-2 draw against Gateshead at the International Stadium.

The trip to the North East was like stepping into the Eastern Block for a European away day - gloomy and bitterly cold weather conditions on a wintry December afternoon, enhanced by the open layout of the ground which doubles up as an athletics arena, the tell tale running track framed the hallowed turf.

In truth it bore more significance to both sets off supporters, a win for either side would have propelled them into the play off places. The Shay faithful had travelled well and were in good voice throughout.

The Shaymen got off to a fantastic start; in form Lois Maynard headed the opening goal early doors from a pinpoint Marc Roberts cross, before veteran John Oster levelled things up almost instantly.

Halifax was the better side, playing to their capabilities. A rare start for Jamie Jackson proved a masterstroke by Neil Aspin. Town’s number nine contributed to everything positive that the visitors had to offer with his concise passing, pace, and tricks and flicks.

The midfield combined well and Maynard found space once more, this time from a speculative distance of 40 yards. The midfielder light fly and the ball moved wickedly en route to goal, wrong footing Gateshead goalkeeper Adam Bartlett to make it 1-2 to the away side.

Back came the Tynesiders however, James Bolton bringing Rob Ramshaw to ground in an easy penalty decision for the referee Ryan Johnson.

Up stepped joint club top scorer Danny Wright to slot home from 12 yards and provide Gateshead’s second equaliser of the first half to go in 2-2 at the break.

The home side began to create more opportunities than the visitors in the second half, with the introduction of Michael Rankine, who provided pace and power but no cutting edge to a plethora of chances.

Town threatened on the break and looked dangerous late on.
Jackson, who only needed a goal to cap off a fine performance, was put through by on loan Will Hatfield.

Despite doing everything right in preparation, Jackson put the ball agonisingly wide by millimetres.

The Boxing Day game at the International Stadium finished 2-2 – a good point on their travels for FC Halifax Town, and a fair reflection on the second half. Town could well have nicked it on another day.

Next up for Halifax is a home game against Chester, less than 48 hours removed from their trip to the North East. Kick off is 3pm at the Shay.

Scott Boden Post Match vs. Bradford City - FA Cup 1st Round

It was heartbreak for FC Halifax Town as they fell to a 1-2 defeat to League One Bradford City in the FA Cup first round at a packed Shay stadium.

Striker Scott Boden gave his assessment on the game that lived up to it’s billing as arguably the tie of the round.

“It gave a little insight into what we’re about, a nice little eye opener to a few people who possibly think its just hoof ball and everything, I mean at times I think we played some good stuff.”

Good stuff indeed as Town got off to the best possible start through a hat trick of corner kicks, early pressure that bore fruit.

Inside three minutes Lois Maynard latched on to Paul Marshall’s set piece to send the Shay faithful into delirium.

“Took the pressure straight off us and bombarded them straight away, the fans were straight on their backs, we couldn’t of asked for a better start to be honest with you.”

From then on it was a chance a plenty for the Shaymen, while Bradford were left reeling. Boden himself went close, as did former Bantam Steve Williams.

“I had a couple, Willo’s had one, its crucial, that second goal was crucial in the match if it was for us or for them, unfortunately for us, they found it. I had a chance, I’d call it guilt edged myself, should have hit the target at least but you cant look back now.”

Town went into the half time break with their heads held high; the home side had matched the League One outfit all over the park.

Bradford’s Phil Parkinson was the first of the two managers to make changes and introduced striker Billy Clarke immediately into the second half. It was an inspired change as Clarke’s trickery caused major problems for the hosts.

Within five minutes of the restart Clarke played an influential role in Jon Stead’s equalising goal. Moments later, Clarke fed Portuguese midfielder Filipe Morais who gave the Bantams the lead for the first time in the match.

“To be honest its changed the game, he’s one of those players that just drops into little pockets, I mean defenders don’t know whether to go with him or to drop off, he picked the ball up I don’t know how many times and dictated play second half and when you bring on a player like that what can you do when he’s got top draw quality.

From my point of view it was never in the plans to sit back and soak up pressure, they just had a little 10 minutes with wave after wave to score two goals and you get punished by teams of that calibre.”

The Shaymen came back full of heart, desire and unparalleled work rate - hustling and harrying the opposition, throwing everything including the proverbial kitchen sink at Bradford.

Town peppered the Bantams goal to ensure a grandstand finish and on another day could well have grabbed at least a draw with their West Yorkshire neighbours.

“I shot first on the turn and Bradford’s blocked it, Robbo’s had it off the line and I think the place, the roof, would have come off if we had scored in the last minute but not to be.”

The memorable FA Cup tie was a feast of football for a crowd topping eight thousand at the Shay, a fantastic spectacle with the added spice of a West Yorkshire derby.

“There were a few little cheeky moments, the fans in general though - the noise, that’s how you knew it meant a lot to everyone around and involved with this club.

As a team we were hoping (for a big crowd), never expected seven/eight thousand but we were hoping there would be and hopefully we’ve given them a little something to come back and watch again.”

Its all hands to the pump in the league as the Shaymen travel to Grimsby this Tuesday evening. The Mariners will provide a stern test as they did back in September when the two sides fought to a 1-1 draw, Scott Nielson the pick of the Grimsby players.

“Back to reality really, I mean a lot of people wouldn’t of expected us to go one nil up and put them under pressure like we did but we’re back to our bread and butter now that’s what we really need to crack on with and hopefully another big performance on Tuesday.”

FCHT return to the Shay next Sunday for the visit of Woking, a game to be contested in front of the same TV cameras that captured the high drama of the FA Cup.

Tony Yeboah - A tale of romantic nostalgia

Nineteen years have now passed since Tony Yeboah's thunderbolt at Elland Road against Liverpool on August 21st 1995.

That 25-yard screamer would send Leeds United top of the Premier League and go some way to immortalising Yeboah in club folklore.

“I don’t score many with my right foot. Normally I prefer my left foot. But it’s a fantastic feeling to score a goal like that and it’s important that when you play a club like Liverpool, you win.” Yeboah said.

His rocket against the Reds with his ‘weaker foot’ would be overshadowed by a stratospheric solo effort at Wimbledon a month later that won many plaudits, including Match of the Day’s goal of the season competition for 1995/96.

Both strikes saw Yeboah become the first player in Premier League history to win back-to-back goal of the month competitions.

Debate rages on to this day over which goal was better.

I was a mere boy (7 years old) when the Ghanaian marvel was lighting up Elland Road and the Premier League.

Of course the slightly grainy archive footage as it would be viewed today still endures almost two decades on, long before the exclamation of fandangled HD.

High definition Yeboah's show reel may not be, a factor that only adds to the appeal if you asked me, but some of the goals were nevertheless straight out of the top drawer.

Yeboah was a relative unknown when he joined Leeds in January 1995, initially on loan before making his switch to Yorkshire permanent that summer for £3.4m from German outfit Eintracht Frankfurt.


However, the Bundesliga was well acquainted with Yeboah’s goal scoring exploits. The Ghana international scored 68 times in 123 appearances for Frankfurt.

He soon announced himself to the Leeds faithful, netting 8 goals in his first 9 games for the club.

Leeds manager at the time Howard Wilkinson remarked, “I'd never actually seen him play, but I watched him a lot on Eurosport. I remember thinking: `Christ, what a player'. What you saw him do in Monaco he did for four years in the Bundesliga. `Routine' goals from three yards, wallops from 20 or 30. Right foot or left, headers. The lot.

As it turns out Tony looks a bargain at what we paid. But it doesn't matter what he's worth because he's here now and we won't sell him. So what is the catch? There isn't one - maybe it's a case of right place, right time.”

The 1995/96 season is my earliest conscious memory of the beautiful game.
As many may enthuse, at that young age supporting your hometown club is a truly immersive experience.

For a 7 year old me was fraught with innocence, naivety and a distinct lack of cynicism towards football, as in life.

I remember scampering off to primary school on the Monday morning, (usually a drab, rain swept affair) the first exchange amongst friends was often one simple question, which broke through the dull British weather like a ray of sunlight; 'did you watch the football at the weekend?'

A tale as old as time perhaps, but an enquiry that spans generations the world over and sticks with you from your formative years through to adulthood.

The mere hint of the lily-white shirt embossed with the blue suede tinge of Thistle Hotels and stitched Asics kit sponsor takes me back to a simpler time.

A time when the sun shined (inexcusably drab Mondays aside) accompanied by the smell of freshly cut grass.

Of playing football with your mates all day until it was dark. Even then, whether you were losing by a cricket score or comfortably on top, ‘next goal wins’ was the only way to separate the winners from the losers.

An idyllic and somewhat rose-tinted view of infancy in the mid-nineties to put it lightly, nostalgia of romantic proportions - the now fully developed cynic within me admits.

But it's those fond memories that melt this ice-cold heart.

The Thistle Hotels/Asics home shirt of 95/96 would be my first football kit as a youngster, which for me at least, became synonymous with the time period.

However, I suppose the general consensus of that kit may not be reminisced upon so fondly, instead a love/hate relationship, for all the good times, there was invariably the bad.

It was of course the kit the team wore at Wembley for the Coca Cola League Cup final of 1996.

A 3-0 defeat to Aston Villa seemed to signal the end for Howard Wilkinson as that one-sided result beneath the towers of the old Wembley reverberated into league form.

Leeds after such a promising start to the campaign lost six games on the spin come the final game of the season, to finish an uninspired 13th in the Premier League.

For Yeboah, cult hero status was solidified through his performances on the pitch, in part down to the breathtaking goals he scored.

He became the first non-English player to win the clubs player of the year award following the 1995/96 season.

The Whites number 21 despatched 32 goals from 66 appearances over two years at Leeds with his right foot, left foot, and head from a plethora of angles that at times looked superhuman.

The hat trick against Monaco that took Yeboah to 20 goals from 20 starts in all competitions, his sublime strike from 25 yards against Yorkshire rivals Sheffield Wednesday and his mazy run at the Manchester United defence before blasting past Peter Schmeichel on Christmas Eve in a 3-1 victory over the old enemy.

A striker with pace and power I can only liken to Didier Drogba in the modern era.

In 47 Premier League matches he netted 24 times and goes down as one of the greatest foreign imports ever to grace England’s top division.

Sadly his tenure with Leeds was to be a relatively fleeting one.

Following a string of injuries at the beginning of the 1996/97 Premier League season, coupled with the departure of Howard Wilkinson and the appointment of George Graham at the helm of the Elland Road club, Yeboah’s days at Leeds were numbered.

Souring relations between he and new Leeds boss George Graham spelled déjà vu for the Ghanaian who had experienced similar conflict with his former manager at Frankfurt Jupp Heynckes.

It was quickly made clear to Yeboah that he was not seen as an integral part of Graham’s vision for the club moving forward and was restricted to appearances off the bench more often than not.

Yeboah moved back to Germany soon after, signing with Hamburg for £1m. He would spend four years at the Volksparkstadion, making over 100 appearances.

In his final year with the German side, they played in the Champions League for the first time in their history following the expansion of the old European Cup.

It was Yeboah who netted the clubs first Champions League goal in the extraordinary 4-4 draw with Italian giants Juventus.

The former Ghanaian international finished his career with a single season spent at Qatari outfit Al-Ittihad, where he helped the club win the Qatar Stars League and the Emir of Qatar Cup.

He was capped 59 times for his country, scoring 29 goals. He is the third highest leading goal scorer for the Black Stars behind Abedi Pele and Asamoah Gyan.

Yeboah returned to Elland Road for a proper and final farewell in front of the Leeds faithful, crossing the white line one more time for Lucas Radebe’s testimonial in 2005.

Howard Wilkson’s assessment of the striker was glowing, “Tony's unique - not just different from other strikers, but better. I've never seen or worked with a finisher like him. He thinks he'll score every time he goes out there.”

Brian Deane said of his former team mate, “We used to call Tony ‘The King’ – and he was such a kind, warm, cool, calm, collected person. It was an absolute privilege to play with him.”

His time at Elland Road will always be looked upon with fondness at the gifts he showcased in the white shirt of Leeds United.

Thank you Tony.

France vs. Nigeria - Player Ratings

France

Hugo Lloris – Safe pair of hands when called upon. Good save from an Odemwingie drive from outside the box just after the hour mark. 7

Mathieu Debuchy – Struggled to find room to run into over on the right touchline. 6

Patrice Evra – Found it hard to penetrate the Nigerian defence from down the left flank. Defensively sound. 6

Yohann Cabaye – Great effort from 25 yards to rattle the crossbar on 77 minutes. It’s still shaking. 7

Raphael Varane – Composed and confident at the back, great positioning throughout. 8

Laurent Koscielny – Solid at the back for the French, perhaps could of posed more of a threat from set plays. 7

Paul Pogba – Truly majestic roaming in the middle of the park, encapsulated by a fantastic first half move started and finished by the former Manchester United man, forcing a good stop from Nigeria’s number one. Found himself in the right place, at the right time to capitalise on Enyeama’s floundering for the opening goal. 8

Blaise Matuidi – Wiry and strong in midfield. Nasty tackle on Onazi, received a yellow card but in retrospect, could have warranted more. Found it difficult in the middle second half as Nigeria controlled the game for long periods. 6

Olivier Giroud – A curious elbow left on Chelsea’s Mikel in the first half, no reprimand forthcoming as the referee didn’t see it, naughty. Few opportunities came the way of the Arsenal striker in a target man role. 6

Mathieu Valbuena – Marshalled well in the first half by the opposition but found more space to run at the Nigerian defence in the second half. Thanks in part by Griezmann’s movement. 7

Karim Benzema – In the first half the Real Madrid forward looked isolated on the left side. Came alive after the addition of Griezmann, cut in more centrally for a one two with the substitute, but for Moses tracking back on the goal line, would have score the opening goal with 20 minutes to play. Constant threat thereafter. 7

Substitutes

Antoine Griezmann – On for Giroud, positive and lively in the final third, showed some great link up play with Benzema. Created problems for the Nigerians and made a difference when he came on. Provided the spark to reignite the French. Bagged a goal late on to seal the deal. 9 (Man of the match)

Moussa Sissoko on for Valbuena – N/A

Nigeria


Vincent Enyeama – Good save to thwart Pogba in the first half. Made some vital stops after Griezmann came on. Prone to error and was at fault for France’s first goal. 7

Efetobore Ambrose Emuobo – Capable attacking option and disciplined to get back and help out his team in defence. 7

Juwon Oshaniwa – Gave the ball back to Pogba in a dangerous area to prolong a French attack. Did well to clear the ball off Pogba’s boot after an error by Enyeama in the second half to make amends. 6

John-Obi Mikel – Great work in the midfield, chased down well. Moved the ball quicker than we have seen so far in this tournament to release the likes of Musa, Moses and Ambrose on the overlap. 8

Joseph Yobo – Having amassed 100 caps for the Super Eagles, the defender was a composed presence at the back. 7

Kenneth Omeruo – Stewarded the ball well for the Super Eagles. 7

Peter Odemwingie – Good anticipation and created space to pass into. Confident in possession. 7

Ogenyi Onazi – Battered and bruised, suffered a nasty looking challenge from Matuidi in the second half, came off on a stretcher. 6

Emmanuel Emenike – Posed a real attacking threat. Good hit from outside the box in the first 45. His shoot on sight mentality caused concern for the French. However, couldn’t beat Lloris. 7

Victor Moses – Showed good movement going forward, something rarely seen at Anfield last season. 8

Ahmed Musa – As shown earlier in the tournament, full of running and endeavor, dangerous in spells. Arguably went missing as the French pressed. 7

Substitutes

Ruben Gabriel on for Onazi – Slotted in well to solidify Nigerian possession. 7 

FOOTBALLER'S LIFE - Pablo Zabaleta, Manchester City and Argentina defender

Pablo Zabaleta signed for Manchester City back in August 2008 from Spanish side Espanyol for GBP6.45million and has become a cult hero at the club.

His status across the blue side of Manchester stems from his versatility and work rate.

Winning plaudits from the terraces and critics alike for his tough tackling and committed performances in sky blue, Zabaleta was in the PFA team of the year in 2012-13 and awarded Manchester City's Etihad player of the season 2013.

The latter of which he won after receiving 68% of the vote polled by the supporters club and fans online.

After winning the award, Zabaleta said. “I would like to say thank you to all the City fans who voted for me. This is a great personal honour and sits alongside winning the Premier League title, captaining City and playing for my country.”

This capped off a great season for 'Zaba' which saw him accumulate 42 appearances and 3 goals for City. He also captained the team in Vincent Kompany's absence, in addition to winning the clubs Etihad player of the month awards in January and February.

The 29 year old began his career in Argentina at San Lorenzo in 2002, and was capped at national youth level from 14, captaining the under 20s to World Cup glory in 2005, before being transferred to Spanish outfit Espanyol for GBP2.7million.

Zabaleta helped his new team capture the Copa del Rey in 2006, and achieved a UEFA cup final appearance against fellow Spanish side Sevilla a year later, however Espanyol lost on penalties on the day.

The defender, who has been utilised at right back and in midfield made 84 appearances for Espanyol over three years before transferring to Manchester City.

In 2008, he won an Olympic gold medal, representing his country in Beijing. The team beat Nigeria in the final, thanks to a goal from Angel Di Maria.

The Argentine made his EPL debut for City in the home defeat to Chelsea on September 13th 2008, and appeared 39 times for City in his maiden season, quickly becoming a vital member of the first team.

He scored his first goal for the club in a 1-0 win over Wigan in January 2009, the wait for his second took 22 months, against Fulham in bittersweet circumstances condemning Mark Hughes, the man who brought him to England to defeat with an uncharacteristic yet nonetheless spectacular long range effort.

He quickly reached another landmark at City, making his 100th appearance for the club against Blackpool on new years day 2011.

He has since made 168 appearances for the Citizens.
Despite cementing his name as one of the first on the team sheet at City, this was in stark contrast to the international scene, as Zabaleta was overlooked for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa by then manager Diego Maradona.

Zabaleta did however represent his country at the 2011 Copa America and is now a regular starter in the international set up.

He made 39 appearances this season, scoring one goal with a pass completion rate of 85% on the way to winning the Premier league title and League cup.

The talismanic Argentine will be looking to continue his successful season at club level with international honours at this years World Cup in Brazil.

FOOTBALLER'S STRIFE: So adored by the Man City faithful, a facebook group emerged prior to the 2010 World Cup in South Africa begging Diego Maradona to 'stop ignoring him', however those pleas fell on deaf ears, the Argentina boss did not select the defender for the tournament.

ONE TO REMEMBER: He scored the opening goal on the dramatic final day win against QPR in 2011/12 that helped pave the way for the club's, and Zabaleta's first Premier League winners medal.

ONE TO FORGET: Sent off in the Champions League against Barcelona in the 2nd leg of their knock out phrase fixture, City went on to lose the game 2-1 and the tie 4-1 on aggregate. Zabaleta said: “I am disappointed but also very proud of the team because I think we played a fantastic game.”

FOOTBALLER STATS:

POSITION: Defender
CLUB: Manchester City
DOB: 16/01/1985
INTERNATIONAL CAPS: 36
INTERNATIONAL GOALS: 0

The World Cup's absent stars

The major talking points of World Cup squad selections are often not focused on those players selected but instead centre on those who have not made it to the finals.

A talented list of high-profile missing men, I think you'll agree.

Phillipe Coutinho - Midfielder - Brazil - Age 20

The Brazilian has been a key man during Brendan Rodger's Liverpool revolution, amassing 50 appearances this season while contributing eight goals and seven assists.

However, Brazil coach Luiz Felipe Scolari deemed him surplus to requirements.

He certainly has a bright future and time is still on his side to make an impact at international level, despite stern competition in Brazil's midfield.






Isco - Midfielder - Spain - Age 22


Isco made the move from Malaga to Real Madrid last summer and became an instant hit at the Bernabeu, scoring a late goal against Real Betis in the club's first home league fixture of the season.

The promising midfielder made over 30 appearances this term, but as Spain are blessed with a plethora of talent in the middle someone had to miss out.






Javier Pastore - Forward - Argentina - Age 24


The Paris St Germain attacker was one of the first big-money signings fuelled by Qatari investment at the Parc des Princes back in the summer of 2011.

He was included in Diego Maradona's World Cup squad four years ago but has struggled to break into Laurent Blanc's starting XI in Paris, making a just 12 league starts this season.






Samir Nasri - Midfielder - France - Age 26

France coach Didier Deschamps is believed to have overlooked the Premier League winner for not buying into the team ethos.

His girlfriend's angry outburst at Deschamps' decision on social media has not helped his cause. Nevertheless the midfielder's omission has been met with widespread confusion.

Nasri was in great form for Manchester City last season, playing a key role with timely goals during the title run-in.





Ronaldinho - Forward - Brazil - Age 34

Not selected because he's "too old" for a World Cup - try telling that to Andrea Pirlo and Steven Gerrard. Ronaldinho is stuck on 97 caps for Brazil - a tally it seems unlikely he will add to in the future - despite enjoying a successful career revival at Atletico Mineiro.

A player of his quality and experience could have proved an invaluable inclusion in the squad amid the pressure and hype that comes with being host nation.







Roberto Soldado - Striker - Spain - Age 28

The Spaniard's 29th birthday must have witnessed muted celebrations after he missed out on Vicente del Bosque's World Cup squad.

Despite his great record in Spain that resulted in Del Bosque taking him to the Confederations Cup last summer, Soldado has struggled to produce the goods consistently since moving to Tottenham.

In a World Cup season, a move abroad to another country and another culture seemed to be a bit of a gamble, and it has not paid off.






Zlatan Ibrahimovic - Striker - Sweden - Age 32

Ibrahimovic and the Swedes were brushed aside single-handedly by Cristiano Ronaldo in the play-off with Portugal that guaranteed qualification to Brazil.

Ibrahimovic has been a force of nature in his own right this season, netting 26 times in Ligue 1 and 41 in all competitions.

It is a shame a player of his calibre will not be gracing the World Cup with his enigmatic and unpredictable presence.




Carlos Tevez - Striker - Argentina - Age 30

Coach Alejandro Sabella left Tevez out despite his productive 19-goal return in Serie A, which helped Juventus to another league title.

Having represented Argentina at both the 2006 and 2010 World Cups, it seems like a personal decision to leave the former Manchester City striker out.

The player has overwhelming support in his home country, and his absence has certainly been the major talking point of Sabella's squad selection, especially when you consider the far-from-prolific Franco Di Santo has been preferred ahead of him.

Neymar stars against Panama

Brazil star Neymar scored a beautifully weighted freekick that paved the way to a dominant 4-0 win by Selecao against Panama in a pre-World Cup friendly.

The 22 year old was at his majestic and skilful best on home soil, placing the ball into the top corner, out of the reach of Panama goalkeeper Oscar McFarlane.

Five minutes before half time, Neymar’s Barcelona teammate Dani Alves put clear daylight between the two sides and effectively ended the contest.

After storming in from the right, Alves hit an instinctive drive from outside the area, sending the ball whistling past two Panama defenders and the wrong footing the opposition goalkeeper before rippling the net.

Almost instantly after resuming for the second half, it was 3-0 to Brazil.

A long pass up field by David Luiz found Brazil’s darling Neymar, who immediately brought the ball under his spell then back heeled for the on running Hulk to hit powerfully with the outside of his left foot, to leave the ball nestled sweetly in the bottom right corner of the Panama goal.

Hulks ninth international goal for the Samba Boys, all have come in friendlies, something the Zenit St. Petersberg striker will look to remedy when the World Cup finals begin.

Brazil and Panama have met only twice before, in 1952 the green and yellow won 5-0, 50 years later, Brazil won by the same scoreline. Wouldn’t bet against the current crop mirroring the history books as things stood.

Neymar looked at his mercurial best through the middle, Oscar on the right, Hulk on the left and Fred furthest forward in a four pillared interchanging attack of fluidity and guil.

Substitute Willian made it 4-0 after good work from Maxwell down the left, the Chelsea midfielder latched onto a Neymar pass, to convert from close range on 73 minutes.

With the tie dead Brazil continued to carve out numerous chances after long spells in possession, despite looking to be winding down after a proficient nights work.

Although against far lesser opposition, Neymar was the stand out performer, playing a pivotal role as 2nd striker.

Brazil will face sterner tests at the World Cup, but on home soil, Neymar will have a lot to do with the good things the Samba Boys produce throughout the tournament.

As he did 12 months removed, which lead to a Confederations Cup triumph.

From the outset head coach Luiz Felipe Scolari’s decision to play Panama in the World Cup hosts penultimate prepatory game was down to the similar playing style shared with group A opponents Mexico. Panama also played Mexico in the qualifying stages for the finals.

Scolari fielded a close to full strength side that may line up next Thursday for the inaugural curtain raiser, when they take on Croatia in Sao Paolo.

The only absentees that are expected to come back into the side were Paulinho, Thiago Silva and Fernandinho, who were all rested.

New PSG signing and captain for the evening David Luiz was assured in defence, Panama never really looked a threat in the final third however.

Brazil now face Serbia on Friday evening in there final warm up for the World Cup finals.

FOOTBALLER'S LIFE - Ben Foster, West Brom and England goalkeeper

Ben Foster spent much of his early playing career on loan in non-league football, however it was by chance that the Warwickshire born shot stopper was spotted by Sir Alex Ferguson in 2005 while on loan at Wrexham.

Ferguson was in attendance to watch his son Darren, but with United struggling to find a heir apparent between the sticks since the departure of Peter Schmeichel, the red devils boss snapped up the young keeper shortly after for GBP1million.

At the age of 22, Foster was deemed not ready for first team action, and swiftly went out on loan to Championship side Watford for the season, with an option of a further year.

Watford boss Aidy Boothroyd claimed in the press that Foster was 'better than current Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin Van Der Sar' and he would be 'England's next goalkeeper', he repaid faith by helping Watford to promotion via a play off final victory over Leeds United.

He remained on loan at Watford in the Premier League and a succession of impressive displays earned him the clubs 'player of the season' award.

Boothroyd expressed a desire to keep Foster on the Watford books for a third season in a row, however the United manager made it clear the promising keeper would be returning to Old Trafford.

It finally seemed as though Foster would get some game time for his parent club two years after originally signing for them, however he underwent surgery on a cruciate knee ligament injury that would rule him out until February 2008.

After returning to action, he made sporadic appearances for the first team in league and cup due to injuries and in order to rest Edwin Van Der Sar for big games.

Following a combination of niggling injuries, inconsistent form when called upon and Tomasz Kuszczak ahead of him in the United pecking order, Foster resigned himself to the necessity of a move away from Old Trafford to gain first team football.

That came in the shape of a three year contract with Birmingham City, a team in search of a replacement for incumbent loanee Joe Hart who would return to Manchester City.

Foster was relatively consistent throughout the season in the league, but for a mistake whilst on England duty in a 2-1 defeat to France.

A week later, the goalkeeper made a multitude of stops to deny league champions Chelsea, as Birmingham held firm for a 1-0 league win.

Foster told the Mirror: “When I signed on, I was just relieved to be playing first-team football. It has gone from strength to strength for me. It has worked out really well.”


A further 'blunder' did creep in during the semi final of the league cup, against West Ham, where Carlton Cole's shot slid underneath him.

However he made up for his error in the final, with a string of good saves on the way to a 2-1 victory over Arsenal, Birmingham city's first trophy in 48 years.

“To win a cup in my first season here is amazing”, said Foster.

The teams league cup final heroics couldn't keep them in the top flight and were relegated on the final day of the 2010-11 season.

Nevertheless, Foster was awarded both Birmingham's player of the season and players' player of the season awards.

Following relegation to the 2nd tier of English football, Foster found himself in familiar territory, on loan, this time at Premier League side West Bromwich Albion.

Foster would appear in 37 of 38 league games, keeping 10 clean sheets – equalling WBA's clean sheet record on route to a 10th placed finish in the Premier League, Albion's highest league finish in 30 years.

In June 2012, he joined the Baggies permanently on a 3 year deal, continuing his impressive displays by recording 7 clean sheets in 30 games.

Despite a 4 month lay off due to a foot injury this term, Foster has been included in Roy Hodgson's 23 man England squad to fly out to Brazil for the 2014 World Cup.

His selection comes as a reward for his hard work and performances on merit over the last few seasons whereby the 31 year old has found some stability in which to ply his trade.


FOOTBALLER'S STRIFE: Foster sustained a cruciate knee ligament injury on returning to Manchester United from a loan spell at Watford, this proved to scupper his promising United career.

ONE TO REMEMBER: Helped Birmingham win their first trophy in 48 years, with an impressive display against Arsenal in the league cup final, he was man of the match.

ONE TO FORGET: Foster and Birmingham couldn't beat the drop after the league cup triumph and were relegated to the Championship on the final day of the 2010-11 season.

FOOTBALLER STATS:

POSITION: Goalkeeper
CLUB: West Bromwich Albion
DOB: 03/04/1983
INTERNATIONAL CAPS: 6

Bargain Basement - Footballs sought after Free Agents

Ashley Cole - 33 - Defender

Widely regarded as the best English left-back in a generation, the 33-year-old is out of contract at Chelsea this summer after eight years at Stamford Bridge. Announced his international retirement prior to the naming of Roy Hodgson's England squad ahead of the World Cup in Brazil. Chelsea are believed to have offered a renewed 12-month contract with reduced terms but Cole looks poised to move on. The former Arsenal man is considering offers from several big clubs, both domestically and abroad - with Monaco and even Real Madrid showing an interest.

Rio Ferdinand - 35 - Defender

After 12 years and 10 trophies, 35-year-old Ferdinand has left Manchester United. Out of contract this summer, the West Ham academy product is available for nothing over a decade on from his record £30million arrival from Leeds. Near-unmatched experience at the highest level and no haggling over a transfer fee will make Ferdinand an attractive proposal for many clubs. FA Cup winners Arsenal, vanquished finalists Hull, MLS side Los Angeles Galaxy and a clutch of Turkish clubs are thought to be interested.

Samuel Eto'o - 33 - Striker

Derided over his age by Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho, Eto'o will nevertheless carry the hopes of a nation when he turns out for Cameroon in his fourth World Cup this summer. His goalscoring record speaks for itself, with an impressive 55 strikes in 116 appearances for his country. Even an underwhelming single season at Chelsea delivered nine goals in 21 Premier League appearances. Speculation as to where the prolific goalscorer will play next is rife, with offers from clubs in the United States, Australia, Italy and Spain said to be forthcoming.

Gareth Barry - 33 - Midfielder

It was shrewd of Everton boss Roberto Martinez to sign the Manchester City midfielder on loan in the last knockings of the transfer window last summer. Barry proved a key member of Everton's squad, helping them to a fifth-placed finish in the Premier League. However, a reported clause in the loan deal between City and Everton mean that the Toffees will need to raise £2.5million to sign him permanently, despite the player being out of contract this summer. A move to the MLS is also on the cards.

Bacary Sagna - 31 - Defender

Of all the players on this list Sagna's future looks the most certain, with Manchester City his expected destination. City boss Manuel Pellegrini has earmarked his targets early and Sagna is top of his shopping list. The France full-back is out of contract this summer but signed off from the Gunners in style by winning his first silverware in the FA Cup final. A move to City could also come with a reported  £120,000-a-week pay deal, while the lack of a transfer fee will be very attractive to City after their recent financial fair play sanction from UEFA. 

Burton Striker Billy Kee to name baby 'Wembley'

Burton Albion Striker Billy Kee has told BBC Radio Derby that he'll name his unborn child after Wembley stadium should he score and the Brewers beat Fleetwood Town in the League Two Play Off final.

Kee's wife, Leigh, was due to give birth on Thursday, 22 May, but Burton's leading goalscorer this season hopes for double celebrations at Wembley Stadium.

"If I score and we win I'll put it in there." Kee said.

The 24 year old has scored 14 goals this season and will look to add to that tally against the Cod Army at Wembley on Monday.

Kee is hopeful ahead of the one off game: "I never thought I'd play there, but this is the real bread and butter, just hope we can all realise that and get something out of the game."

Exeter City DoF: "No offers for Grimes"

Exeter City's Director of Football Steve Perryman has confirmed that no offers have been received for the Grecians teenage midfielder Matt Grimes.

The 18 year has enjoyed an impressive first season as a professional, turning out 37 times for the first team, and starring for the under 21s in the Premier League cup before picking up the clubs player of the year award.

Perryman insisted on the clubs website that: "There have been no bids so far and no discussions with anyone relating to a transfer."

Their has been speculation linking the Exeter academy product with a more away from St James Park and a host of Premier League and Championship clubs are allegedly queueing up to sign the midfielder.

It comes as no surprise to Perryman that Grimes is attracting interest from clubs up the footballing ladder: “Matt is arguably the best technical player that I have seen come through our Academy during my nine years with the club."

The director of football hastened to add however that Exeter are not making any preparations for the youngsters exit: “As things stand we’re preparing for Matt to be an Exeter City player next season."

Bury confirm pre-season fixtures

Bury FC have announced their pre season fixtures, getting under way at 7:30pm on 9th July with an away trip to Radcliffe Borough.

Nine days later, the Shakers host Championship side Sheffield Wednesday at Gigg Lane, before making the short journey to Salford to play the Ammies in a 3pm kick off game.

City were purchased earlier in the year by former Manchester United players Gary and Phil Neville, Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt.

The Bury first team squad will then head to Tenerife for 7 days from 20th to 27th June.

On their return, Championship outfit Blackburn Rovers will await them at Gigg Lane on 30th June, kicking off at 7:45pm.

On August 1st and 2nd Bury will play firstly away at Ramsbottom United, fielding a mixed side, then the first team will take on Rochdale at home, the Dale won automatic promotion to League One after finishing 3rd in League Two last season.

The final games of pre season will see a mixed side play Wigan Athletic on Wednesday 6th August, at a neutral ground yet to be confirmed, followed by a Lee Rigby benefit game at Gigg Lane, kick off TBC.

Charlie Sheringham looking for new club

Striker Charlie Sheringham has not been offered a new contract at AFC Wimbledon ahead of the new season and will leave the club.

The 26 year old suffered a nasty ankle injury soon after joining the Don's in June 2013, and has struggled to break into the side since returning to action.

Speaking to the clubs website, Wimbledon boss Neal Ardley said: "From Charlie’s point of view he feels he probably never got a good run in the team and rightly so. It was stop-start for him after he suffered a bad injury. From my point of view we had a bit of a striker crisis throughout the season and we were not scoring enough goals."

Sheringham spent time on loan at Salisbury City during the second half of the 2013-14 season and will now be looking for a new club.

His last contribution on loan at the Whites saw Sheringham score in a 2-2 draw with Chester on the final day of the Conference Premier campaign which condemned the Blues to relegation on goal difference.

Ardley wished the striker well after spending less than 12 months at Kingsmeadow: “Charlie is a good player and I think he will do well wherever he goes. I hope he gets a good deal somewhere else.”

AFC Wimbledon make first summer signing

AFC Wimbledon have made their first signing of the summer, completing a deal for Oxford United's Sean Rigg on a free transfer.

The 25 year old made 32 appearances and scored 2 goals for the U's during the 2013-14 campaign.

Don's boss Neal Ardley told the clubs official website: "I have always liked him when Sean's played against us and been impressed when I've watched him in games."

Rigg has made over 200 Football League appearances during spells with Bristol Rovers, Port Vale and Oxford.

His new manager was quick to make arrangements to bring the midfielder to Kingsmeadow when alerted to his availability, "Sean is quick and direct and can score goals, which is obviously an area we are trying to improve upon."

Starting his career at Bristol Rovers, Rigg helped the club win promotion to League 1 through the play-offs in 2007.

He has spent the entirety of his career in the Football League, apart from a loan spell at Forest Green in 2009 where he scored six goals in 14 games.

Eastleigh sign former AFC Wimbledon striker Jack Midson

Eastleigh have confirmed the signing of ex-AFC Wimbledon striker Jack Midson on a two year deal.

The 30 year old netted 42 goals in 140 appearances for the Don's but was among eight players released by the Don's earlier this month, bringing an end to a 3 year association between club and player.

His new boss Richard Hill admitted to not wasting any time in contacting the player once he learned of Midson's release from AFC Wimbledon:

"I have been speaking to Jack for a few weeks now, desperately trying to get this deal over the line. Jack is an extremely ambitious lad and, to come and play in the Conference, he needed to be convinced that we’re not going into this league just to tread water"

In his first season at Kingsmeadow, Midson scored 18 goals to finish tied top of the League Two scoring charts in 2011-12.

Continued his potency in front of goal the following season as the clubs top scorer in the league with 13 goals.

Hill stated that the acquisition of a player like Midson is a positive move for the clubs future:

"Jack has committed to us for the next two years and, once more, that speaks volumes for this club’s long-term aspirations.  We are all looking forward to welcoming a player of Jack’s pedigree and goal-scoring ability into what we consider is already a high-quality squad."

Midsun is Eastleigh's second signing this week after signing James Constable also on a two year contract.

Accrington Stanley Striker Receives NI Call Up

Accrington Stanley striker James Gray has been called up to the Northern Ireland squad ahead of friendlies against Uruguay and Chile on Friday 30th May and Wednesday 4th June respectively.

A regular for the under-21s, Gray couldn't believe he'd been selected, telling Accrington Stanley's official website: "To be honest I thought it was a wind up! I’m just absolutely made up to be in the squad and travel. I’m speechless."

The former Middlesborough youngster has the chance to emulate his father, Phil Gray, who represented NI 26 times, scoring 6 goals.

Gray's call up comes after Huddersfield frontman Martin Paterson was forced to withdraw from the squad after suffering a number of injuries throughout the 2013-14 campaign.

The 21 year old attributes his selection to his recent form at the tail end of the season, featuring more regularly for Stanley, scoring 3 goals in the final 2 games, "I think that was a major part, getting into a bit of scoring form and getting rewarded."

Attention will now turn to a trip to the southern hemisphere and a gilt-edged opportunity of full international honours afforded to him by NI manager Michael O'Neill.

Who is Eliaquim Mangala?

As the race to sign Porto centre back Eliaquim Mangala hots up, it seems Chelsea are the Frenchman's preferred option over newly crowned Premier League champions Manchester City with location being the apparent dealbreaker.

Here's a rundown of his key moments so far.

1991: Born in Colombes, France

1996: Family moves to Belgium.

1996: Plays for Athletic Club Lustin, situated in Namur, where his family moved.

2002: Leaves AC Lustin and moves on to C.S. Wépionnais.

2004: After 2 years at C.S. Wépionnais, Mangala moves to Namur.

2006: Joins the IPES Waremme Football School.

2008: Signs for Belgian top flight club Standard Liege.

2008: Tastes silverware early into his Belgian Pro League career, winning the Belgian Super Cup.

2009: Makes debut for France Under-21s against Tunisia.

2009: Scored against Arsenal in Liege's 3-2 home defeat in the Champions League.

2009: Helps his new club to the Belgian Pro League title.

2009: Part of Standard Liege team that retains Belgian Super Cup.

2010: Reaching Quarter finals of the Europa League with Liege.

2011: Forced to withdraw from the French squad to play Slovenia in Euro 2011 Under 21 qualification group match, due to a groin injury.

2011: However did return on 15 November 2011, in a 2013 Under 21s European Championship qualifier, Mangala opened the scoring against Slovakia, France’s main rival in the group.

2011: Scores the first goal in a 2-0 victory over Westerlo in the Belgian Cup final. His last trophy at Standard Liege.

2011: Signs for Portuguese Champions Porto for £5.5 million.

2012: Makes 23rd and final appearance for the French Under 21's on 16 October 2012, France failed to qualify for the 2013 Under 21 European Championships after losing to Norway 4-5 on aggregate.

2012: His move to Portugal provides immediate success, winning Portugal's Primeira Liga in his first full season.

2012: Adds to Portuguese premier league win with the Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira or Portuguese Super Cup with a slender 1-0 win over Académica de Coimbra.

2013: Porto retain the Primeira Liga with Mangala in the side.

2013: Club keeps the Portuguese Super Cup at the Estádio do Dragão by beating Vitória de Guimarães 3-0 in the final.

2013: Received his first cap from France senior squad on 6 June 2013 in a friendly against Uruguay. France lost the game 1-0, Liverpool's Luis Suarez with the only goal.

2014: Porto finish third in Primeira Liga 6 points behind 2nd placed Sporting Lisbon and 13 points behind Champions Benfica.

England's U17 Emerging Stars

Stop the presses, England have won a penalty shoot-out.

The Three Lions' Under-17 team were triumphant in the final of the European
Championship on Wednesday night, romping home on penalty kicks 4-1 against
Holland after the match ended 1-1.

The victory for John Peacock's talented group of youngsters emulates the
achievements of England Under-17s in the same tournament four years ago. 

On that occasion the likes of World Cup-bound Everton midfielder Ross Barkley,
Stoke goalkeeper Jack Butland and West Brom striker Saido Berahino were among
England's heroes.

So, what potential England stars of tomorrow have been on show in Malta?

 

Dominic Solanke - 16 - Forward

The Chelsea youngster has become a key member of Peacock's team in recent
months. The 16-year-old scored England's goal in the final and boasts an
impressive record for the Three Lions, netting 11 goals in 14 appearances.
Powerful, athletic and quick, Solanke is a regular for the Chelsea Under-18s.
His late brace helped the Blues to a thrilling 7-6 aggregate victory over Fulham
in the FA Youth Cup final earlier this month.

 

Jonjoe Kenny - 17 - Defender

Scored the winning penalty in the shoot-out. Kenny spent seven years in the
Everton academy before signing scholarship forms with the Toffees in June 2013.
The defender is equally adept at full-back and centre-back, and made his debut
for the Under-17s in the Euro qualifier against Armenia in October.

 

Patrick Roberts - 17 - Forward

The 17-year-old possesses a blend of great skill and technique which makes him
a valuable attacking outlet. Played a part in England's goal against Holland and
topped the assist charts with four, as well as weighing in with three goals
during the tournament. Made his first-team debut for Fulham against Manchester
City in March having signed professional contract that will keep him at Cottage
Road until June 2016. Is rumoured to have caught the eye of Arsenal, Barcelona
and Real Madrid. 

 
Ryan Ledson - 16 - Midfielder

Captained the Under-17s to the title. Has spent 11 years at Everton's academy,
signing as a scholar in 2013 at the same time as Jonjoe Kenny. The
tough-tackling midfielder has excelled in the middle of the park for England and
his smooth passing is often at the heart of England's approach play.

 

Freddie Woodman - 17 - Goalkeeper

The son of Newcastle goalkeeping coach Andy Woodman is one of the most
highly-rated young goalkeepers in the country. Conceded just one goal during
qualification and has been a regular starter for Newcastle's Under-18s. Has yet
to make a competitive appearance for the Magpies' Under-21s but did play for
Newcastle's reserves in a friendly against York aged just 14. Signed a long-term
contract with Newcastle earlier this year.

 

Taylor Moore - 16 - Midfielder

Born in London, Moore has lived in France since the age of seven. On arriving
in France, Moore played for Etaples before signing for Lens, where he has spent
the last five years. The midfielder joins an exclusive club of English players
who have donned the national jersey while playing abroad, following the likes of
David Beckham, Owen Hargeaves and Michael Owen. A relatively new addition to the
Under-17 set-up, having joined up with England for the first time in February.

On This Day..

SPORTING BIRTHDAYS

Howard Kendall (soccer) - three-times manager of Everton, who led the club to two league championships and FA Cup glory, born 1946.

Lee Hughes (soccer) - former West Brom and Coventry striker, currently with Forest Green Rovers, born 1976.

Danny Tiatto (soccer) - Former Manchester City and Australia midfielder, born 1973.

Jurgen Melzer (tennis) - Wimbledon and US Open men's doubles winner from Austria, born 1981.

Tranquillo Barnetta (soccer) - Switzerland and Schalke winger, currently on loan at Eintracht Frankfurt, born 1985.

Matt Jarvis (soccer) - West Ham and England winger, born 1986.

Novak Djokovic (tennis) - Serbia's world number two, born 1987.

Arturo Vidal (soccer) - Juventus and Chile midfielder, born 1987.

ON THIS DAY IN SPORT

1946: Manchester United legend George Best was born in Belfast. Best won the European Cup with United in 1968 and was voted European Footballer of the Year later that same year. He died in 2005 after a long battle with alcohol addiction.

1990: Wembley staged its first game since being converted to an all-seater stadium as Uruguay beat England in a friendly.

1991 - Inter Milan wins 20th UEFA Cup at Rome

1994 - Toronto NBA franchise unveils name "Raptors" & logo

1996: Juventus beat Ajax on penalties to win the Champions League final in Rome.

1999: Newly-crowned Premier League champions Manchester United beat Newcastle 2-0 in the FA Cup final at Wembley. They went on to win the Champions League final against Bayern Munich four days later to complete an unprecedented treble.

2005: Rangers claimed the Scottish Premier League title in the most sensational fashion. The Gers defeated Hibernian at Easter Road but the Ibrox club were

helped to the title as Motherwell stunned Celtic with a 2-1 triumph at Fir Park, with Scott McDonald scoring twice in the last two minutes.

2008: Celtic won won their third consecutive Clydesdale Bank Premier League title with a 1-0 victory at Dundee United.

2010: Inter Milan beat Bayern Munich 2-0 in the Champions League final. Diego Milito scored both goals at Real Madrid's Bernabeu stadium, with Jose Mourinho's Inter becoming the first Italian side to win the league, cup and Champions League treble.

2010: Blackpool twice came from behind to beat Cardiff 3-2 in the Coca-Cola Championship play-off final, securing promotion to the Barclays Premier League.

2011: Birmingham and Blackpool were relegated on the final day of the Barclays Premier League season as Wigan, Wolves and Blackburn survived.

2011: Manager Carlo Ancelotti was sacked by Chelsea shortly after their season-ending 1-0 defeat at Everton.

2012: Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho signed a new contract to tie him to the club until 2016.

2013: Glasgow Rangers agree deal to sign former Kilmarnock goalkeeper Cammy Bell on a 4 year contract.

2013: Golfer Sergio Garcia offered Tiger Woods an unreserved apology for what he called "stupid and out of place" comments at the European Tour's annual awards ceremony.

Does Bojan have a future at Barcelona?

Former Barcelona captain Luis Enrique has signed a 2 year deal to take the reins at the Nou Camp and will look to ring the changes following a barren season without honours under Gerardo Martino.

Following the retirement of Carlos Puyol, out of contract Victor Valdes and a host of squad players allowed to leave, the 44 year old will look to tap into the rich talent pool at the clubs academy La Masia.

When officially presented to the media for the first time as FC Barcelona manager, 'Lucho' said:

“I love to support young players but I demand that they show hunger and ambition. The door is open to all B players, and all the players in the youth teams.”

Enrique spent 3 years as head coach of Barcelona B and welcomes back three graduates of the Catalan's world renowned academy after successful loan spells, Rafinha Alcantara from Celta Vigo, Gerard Deulofeu from Everton and Bojan Krkic from Ajax.

In the curious case of Bojan Krkic, a player with such promise early on in his Barcelona career, has spent the last three seasons out on loan, firstly none other than Enrique brought the striker to Italian side Roma in his maiden managerial role, a stint at AC Milan followed and lastly at Dutch champions Ajax where he helped Frank De Boer's young side claim a fourth consecutive Eredivisie title.

The player has a year left on his Barcelona contract and may be given a lifeline by the new boss after previous regimes left the promising talent in loan market purgatory.

Bojan was handed his Barcelona debut in 2007 by Dutch manager Frank Rijkaard shortly after his 17th birthday, finishing his first season with 10 goals, the youngster broke Raul's record of most goals scored in a debut season.

The following season he scored a combined 5 goals in the Copa del Rey to help the Catalan's lift the trophy for the first time in 11 years. Bojan struggled to find the net consistently in 2009-10 but hit form towards the end of the campaign, notching up 7 of his 8 goals in the final 12 games.

Despite the departure of Zlatan Ibrahimovic in the summer of 2010, the young striker found his chances in the first team limited, falling behind Lionel Messi, David Villa and Pedro in the pecking order.

At the end of the 2010-11 season Bojan had accumulated over 100 appearances for the club, but expressed the need to go out on loan in order to gain more first team football after struggling to nail down a first team place.

Roma agreed to sign him for an initial £11 million with an option to sign the youngster long term for £25 million, Barcelona also installed a buy back price of £13 million. After his first season in Italy, he was allowed to move to AC Milan on a season long loan, which didn't impact on the pre-agreed buy back clause.

The season concluded with both Roma and Milan passing up the opportunity to sign Bojan permanently, thus returning to Barcelona in the hope of resurrecting his Catalan based career.

It proved a false dawn as he was loaned out to Ajax for the 2012-13 campaign. Amassing 24 appearances, starting 17 and contributing 4 goals on route to Amsterdam's 33rd league crown.

He returns to the Nou Camp with his future up in the air, at still only 23 he has bags of potential and is thought to be held in high regard by those at Barcelona. He may be a prime candidate to help the Barcelona rebuilding project but after his promising career has stuttered whilst out on loan so too his reputation, the Catalan's may wish to cash in, with Liverpool among the teams rumoured to be interested in the player.

The Spaniard of Serbian descent commented on his future: “We'll see what happens, I've really enjoyed this season and I have to assess the pros and cons. Back to Barca is obviously an option, I have a year on my contract with the club.

“We'll see, I must evaluate the best for me and my progression.”

As the all conquering Barca side of the last decade looks fractious and set to disperse, the club is allegedly willing to listen to offers for the likes of Cesc Fabregas and Dani Alves, however this is no guarantee those players mentioned will leave.

The appointment of Enrique is not the only restructuring at Barcelona, with former first team assistant under Tito Villanova, Jordi Roura being named director of youth football, while physical fitness manager Aureli Altimira will take up a new role as youth system coordinator.

Bojan highlighted that wherever he plays in future, he would take with him "The philosophy, style of play and passion for the game" that he has experienced in Amsterdam.