Sunderland Looking To Sign Tottenham Hotspur Left-Back Permanently - The Hard Tackle

This could very well turn out to be Danny Rose's breakthrough season in his short career so far. The Englishman has been sensational for Sunderland this season, and has perhaps been their most consistent player behind Simon Mignolet and Steven Fletcher. In fact many would consider him unlucky to have missed out on nominations for the PFA young player of the year awards.

The 22-year-old, who was signed by Tottenham Hotspur from Leeds United back in 2007, has spent most of his career on loan so far. After spending timer at Watford, Petersborough United and Bristol City early on in his career, Danny Rose was signed on loan by Sunderland at the start of the season.

But now the Black Cats are reportedly interested in signing the England U-21 international permanently. Former Sunderland manager Martin O'Neill was highly impressed with Rose during his stint and now his successor at the club, Paolo Di Canio, has urged the board to sanction a move for him in the summer.

Danny Rose, is yet to disclose his plans for the future and the Englishman, who represented Great Britain at the Olympics, has said that his priority at the moment is to secure Sunderland's Premier League status.

'That has changed and it's not the time for me to go speaking to the new manager about what he wants for next season.

'The main priority is to have Premier League status for next year. Once that's sorted, once we are safe, I'm sure there will be a conversation to be had. I know what I want to do next year and we will just see what happens.' – Danny Rose was quoted in press.

But it looks unlikely that Tottenham would want to let go of the young starlet on a permanent deal . It is believed that the London club might look to make Danny Rose a regular starter in the first team next season, following his impressive performances and Benoit Assou-Ekotto's indifferent form this season. It would be hard for Rose to turn down Tottenham Hotspurs if they offer him regular first team action.

FC Barcelona to vacation at Israel and Palestinian Recognition - Arutz Sheva.

Lionel Messi along with his Barcelona teammates will be a part of a Middle Eastern tour in August that will include sporting workshops with regard to both Israeli and Palestinian Power Arab children, AFP reported on Wednesday.

"FC Barcelona, by way of the Israeli government and also the Palestinian National Authority, will organize in August a Barcelona Peace Tour, an initiative which will include two sporting events for peace by which children from Israel and additionally Palestine will participate and in which all FC Barcelona players will be present, " said a statement in the club's website quoted as a result of AFP.

"This project may be made possible thanks on the immeasurable collaboration of a Israeli and Palestinian health systems, " the statement proclaimed.

"FC Barcelona has turn into a point of dialogue concerning Israelis and Palestinians. The Barcelona foundation has organized sporting events with the children and students of both communities in past times and it will continue to take some action in a persistent attempt for peace, freedom together with democracy, " the statement said, according to AFP.

In February, Barcelona president Sandro Rosell implied a soccer match between Israel plus the PA with players from both sides within the conflict as a step towards Middle East calm.

"The idea is to help the two peoples to achieve peace with a meeting when Barcelona stars and players in the two sides would engage, " Rosell explained as he visited Israel and the PA.

The head for the Palestinian Authority's soccer federation, Jibril Rajoub, said however not wearing running shoes was "too soon" in a match against Israel, although he praised taking that approach.

"This idea would cause a quake in the area if it were to occur, but it is too soon and the ball was in the Israeli camp, " said Rajoub.

"The conditions are certainly not ready for this strategy. Israel does not even recognize us to be a sporting entity, " they added.

Several months ago Hamas reacted furiously following on from the Barcelona soccer team invited Gilad Shalit to wait a Barcelona-Real Madrid derby, demanding that FC Barcelona always keep him away, and urging Muslim media not to ever broadcast the game in case the Israeli attended.

"We ask all Muslim, Arab and Palestinian media not to broadcast this game in the event that Shalit attends, " Hamas spokesman Sami Abu Zuhri proclaimed.

"FC Barcelona's invitation on the criminal Shalit for them to pay homage to him can be an offence to sentiments in the Palestinian people and to help you Arabs and Muslims, because Shalit is an Israeli soldier who was simply on a tank getting involved in the killing of Palestinian civilians when he was captured (in 2006), inches he said.

PA soccer player Mahmoud Sarsak later said he'd attend the derby, and not in the same stand up as Gilad Shalit. Sarsak have been imprisoned in an Israeli imprisonment on terrorism charges together with was freed and came back to his home around Gaza after observing a good hunger strike of nearly 3 months.

Rajoub, a senior PENNSYLVANIA official, himself in way back when supported an Arab boycott in the Adidas company, because in the sponsorship it gave to your Jerusalem Marathon.

He recently praised use of violence against Israel in addition to said that "if we'd a nuke, we'd have used it this very breakfast. "

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Hughes future at Fulham in doubt - Tribalfootball.com

Aaron Hughes' future at Fulham is in doubt. He is set for talks on his Fulham potential after 3 months with out a Premier League start. Director Martin Jol said: aIf you need to play and youare perhaps not in the staff, you probably think about going somewhere. I donat think Aaron will be one of those, nevertheless, you can never say never.a

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Bolton Wanderers shirt sponsor change looks possibly, we hope for Mr. Glint.

Bolton Wanderers have been sponsored by 188Bet with the 2009/2010 season to the. The big orange custom logo design took the place of the very familiar "Reebok" wordmark (shortly succeeded by RBK) that was on the front with Bolton's shirt from 1990 so that you can 2009. 188Bet simultaneously provided Wigan Athletic's shirts coming from 2009-2011. It was the other time in Premier League history that two teams were sponsored through the same company (the earliest occurrence was from 2000-2002 when ever NTL sponsored Aston Villa and Newcastle).

In 2011, a betting company signed your two year extension by using Bolton, running to 2013 (this summer). With that contract running out and yes it looking ever more like the deal is definitely not further extended, the Trotters are most likely on the hunt for any new shirt sponsor.

The names of varied companies have been flying around of late with local firms, personal loan firms, and now, an Asian firm all within the mix.

That last section of information got the supporters thinking, what if it was subsequently it was the glorious fishbulb model of Mr. Sparkle, made famous from the Simpsons when Homer realizes a logo resembling his likeness upon an old detergent box with the Springfield dump.

I would think that Bolton Wanderers would be honored to be considered by this soap in the sacred forests of Hokkaido, renowned for its countless soap factories.

Up-to-date chatter on Twitter says that Canyonero and Mr. Plow are also in talks for this shirt deal while Krusty Burger has shown interest with Try N' Save as well as the Leftorium are preparing submissions.

The Debate: Should Manchester City sack Roberto Mancini? - The Independent

Does Mancini deserve to be sacked? Is Pellegrini the best man for the job? Who else could lead City's star-studded but under-performing side? Let us know your thoughts by using the 'Make a comment' button below and we'll publish the best ones.

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Even When He’s Injured, Russell Westbrook Is Also Pretty Great

The web roundup for Wednesday, May 22. Be sure to like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter. See anything that should be on SportsGrid? Send it to tips@sportsgrid.com.

London soldier beheaded in broad daylight by insane people; chicks looking for female Viagra; you can eat dinner on a crane; the New York Times can be such a dick.

Bomani Jones stack speaks the truth. hansbrough ain't that crazy. "@BFrasor: @DHPIV I second Jerry's claim."

darren rovell Geno Smith's contract will be solely negotiated by Roc Nation Sports. Eventual model is to be standalone company w/o CAA help

Michelle Beadle Just a little! RT @Jackie_Pepper: omg... I almost died Beadle to @carolynmanno "I think you and I have a different sense of humor." Um YES

NFL on FOX So what exactly do coaches get out of OTAs? Super Bowl Champ @CoachBillick explains » http://t.co/8udNHrus3t

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NFL Draft And Start Of League Year May Be Pushed Back To May

If you believe Adam Schefter of ESPN, the word is the NFL may not have the annual NFL Draft until MAY coming up in the near future.

NFL and NFLPA are on verge of pushing back draft to May and moving up start of league year to before combine, per sources.

As you see from the tweet, Schefter says the draft will be in May, and then the start of the league year would be pushed back as well.

It will be interesting how teams do their pre-draft visits if the tweet comes through, and how much time they try and spend with a specific player now that there's more time to do so.

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Could Notre Dame Football Really Be Left Without a Bowl Berth?

A 7-5 bowl-eligible Notre Dame team may be spending this December in South Bend, Ind. instead of Honolulu, HI, according to an ESPN report.

One of the biggest perks for a football program joining a conference is its bowl tie-ins. Each conference has contracts with bowls that allows its bowl-eligible teams to play in those contracted bowls.

Notre Dame's football program is independent and does not have non-BCS bowl agreements in place for the 2013 season. The school has made bowl agreements in the past—Notre Dame was an alternative selection for the 2011 Russell Athletic Bowl.

If Notre Dame finishes the regular season ranked in the top eight of the BCS final standings, then it is guaranteed a BCS bowl berth. Is it BCS or bust for Notre Dame this year? ESPN's Brett McMurphy doesn't think so:

Contractually if there are 70 bowl-eligible teams, Notre Dame—if it doesn't qualify for a bowl—would have to stay at home.

However, industry sources believe there would be some last-minute re-negotiations between bowls to make room for Notre Dame. A bowl could "pay off" a conference by allowing the bowl to take Notre Dame instead of a team from the conference it's affiliated with.

That's an understatement by McMurphy. Notre Dame will not be sitting home. Even with a 6-6 record, it will go bowling unless it declines a bowl berth, because Notre Dame football is that powerful.

Notre Dame does function by itself. It is self supporting. But claiming independence also infers that one is not interested in joining a group. Yet, Notre Dame has a distinctive voice in how conferences it has no membership in conduct their business in regards to naming a BCS champion.

A BCS conference champion is guaranteed a BCS bowl berth, but that guarantee is for a nameless conference champion, not a specific school. Not one college football team, except for Notre Dame, has a guaranteed BCS bowl berth if it is ranked in the top eight, unless it wins its conference.

And that power is a result of a fan base that it is not just national, it is global. Notre Dame fans travel exceptionally well, probably better than almost any other football team's fans at the college or NFL level.

The 2010 Sun Bowl featured a 7-5 Notre Dame vs. a 7-5 Miami (FL). The bowl had the "fastest sellout in the 77-year history of the bowl game," according to the Sun Sentinel. One day after the bowl announced its two participants, Notre Dame sold its ticket allotment. The Irish fans made El Paso, TX their holiday destination.

Bowl committee members don't concern themselves about how many butts are in seats as much as the schools do. Participating schools are required to pay for their ticket allotments, whether those tickets are sold or not.

Hotels, restaurants and retailers benefit from fans who use their services. For every dollar spent, the host city collects taxes on those sales. Notre Dame's geographical location almost guarantees a minimum two or three-night stay in a bowl's host city.

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Manchester United Transfer News: Digesting Early Wayne Rooney Talk.

Your transfer saga is producing between Wayne Rooney in addition to Manchester United. Retiring manager Sir Alex Ferguson validated the longtime United star requested a move however , said the club isn't likely to let him go. It's going to make for an exciting summer.

Rooney has been a fundamental piece of the United squad with the past nine seasons. The arrival of Robin van Persie prior to a club's latest championship strategy forced to him to advance out of his all natural striker role, though. Her goal total dropped with 27 to 12 inside league play.

A select band of United supporters let Rooney skills they felt about this transfer request by booing him through the title parade, according to Jamie Gordon for the Sun. It was a lowlight with the otherwise celebratory moment for the club.

While that would enable it to be appear Rooney is start to wear out his welcome after a terrific career with that Red Devils, the market for him hasn't been quick to heat up while using season coming to a detailed.

Sami Mokbel of that Daily Mail reports Arsenal are showing curiosity about the England international and have absolutely been considering a probable deal since March.

Underneath 12 months after providing Robin van Persie to this fact season's Premier League champions, the Gunners are plotting a great equally dramatic move to get his troubled team-mate.

Sportsmail can reveal that club's backroom team first raised the possibility of a move for the England striker at a good scouting meeting in Next month, having been alerted to be able to Rooney's problems at Ancient Trafford.

Yet Gunners manager Arsene Wenger stated there are no contact with United about Rooney, as announced by ESPN. He wine basket clear the club is concentrated on the season finale not summer transfer plans.

I don't know if Man United will sell Rooney and that is the best sign to show you we have never made any approach for him for the reason that first move is to contact Manchester United, which we didn't do. At the moment we are focused on Sunday.

Another club to distance itself from the Rooney talk is Bayern Munich. The German side could play Borussia Dortmund to your Champions League title later with the month. While they may possibly win the coveted trophy, it doesn't sound like they can pursue Rooney.

I are not aware of what Rooney would bring to your Bundesliga. I can't reply that. I can answer that any of us have great respect for Wayne Rooney but there is no contact with your ex. There is no get in touch with and he's not on the agenda. No, no. Definitely not.

Given the limited number of clubs capable of handling both the transfer charge and Rooney's contract, it's an issue when even one of those sides says it's not necessarily interested. It takes an alternative off the table if ever the striker does plan and keep pushing for a way to avoid it.

The decision by Rooney to request a move is actually somewhat surprising. Even although his role has changed, United are coming from a title-winning campaign, are headed to your Champions League again and he finally appeared to develop chemistry with van Persie inside latter stages of the growing season.

Yet there was speak about problems in paradise from the time Rooney was left on the bench during the club's UCL erradication against Real Madrid. Thus, the request probably didn't catch the club altogether off guard. Now United must decide whether may be indeed keep him or alter their stance once the campaign ends.

The situation has the feel of 1 that could drag on throughout the entire summer, exactly like the van Persie ordeal a year ago. As of now, the place Rooney will play up coming season is anyone's guess.

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Michigan Football: Ranking Toughest Games on 2013 Schedule

Michigan will look to get back to a BCS bowl next season, but there are a bunch of tough opponents who stand in the team's way.

The Wolverines certainly have a lot of promise in 2013. A full year with Devin Gardner at quarterback should help create a more balanced offence, especially with Taylor Lewan blocking his blind side. Meanwhile, the defense should continue to improve under Brady Hoke.

However, there are difficult games on the schedule starting as early as August. While Michigan should be able to get a lot of wins this season, these are going to be the most daunting matchups of the year.

Going on the road against an in-state rival will always be a tough game. Michigan finally ended a four-game losing streak against the Spartans last season and is looking to build a new winning streak this year.

The problem is that Michigan State still has one of the top defenses in the country and will be tough to score against. This game could end up being similar to last year's 12-10 victory for the Wolverines.

Fortunately, the Spartans struggled on offense all year in 2012 and lost their best offensive weapon in Le'Veon Bell. It is unlikely the squad improves on that side of the ball this year, giving Michigan a good chance of earning a road victory.

Nebraska is very likely to be Michigan's biggest threat to come out of the Legends Division. Taylor Martinez is heading into his senior season as one of the best rushing quarterbacks in the country with an improved passing game.

While the defense is still improving, it is clear that the Cornhuskers are one of the teams to beat in the Big Ten this year.

The good news, however, is that Michigan gets to play this game at home in the Big House, where the team won every game last season. All four of Nebraska's losses last season were away from home, so it gives Michigan a much better chance of winning.

Few expected Penn State to be as good as it was last season. In Bill O'Brien's first year as head coach, the squad went 8-4 with the No. 16-ranked defense in the country.

While the Nittany Lions are still ineligible for the postseason, they should be even better this year with an improved young roster and an infusion of young talent in the most recent recruiting class.

This is one of Michigan's first Big Ten games and it could be a quick loss for the Wolverines if they are not prepared to go into Happy Valley. Penn State is clearly their toughest road game of the year, so they must be ready for a battle.

Notre Dame lost a lot of talent from last year's team that went to the national championship game, but there are plenty of players ready to pick up the slack.

Most importantly, Everett Golson returns as the team's undisputed starting quarterback and should have more confidence heading into the year. The young player was relatively mistake-free down the stretch and will look to continue that this season.

This experience will play a big role in the second game of the season. He was certainly less than stellar last year when these teams played, which gave Michigan a chance of winning.

On the other hand, Gardner will still be coming into his own and could struggle against a strong defensive front for the Irish. If the young offensive line is not ready to compete, it will be destroyed by defensive tackle Louis Nix and the rest of the Notre Dame defense.

Every year, this is the game that is circled when the schedule comes out. This season, the game might be even more important, as Ohio State looks to challenge for a national championship.

Braxton Miller is clearly one of the top players in the country with his ability as a passer and runner. He finished last season with over 2,000 passing yards and 1,000 rushing yards and is always a threat to make a big play.

Additionally, the Buckeyes defense will be just as strong with quick pass-rushers and playmakers in the secondary to force turnovers.

Either this game will be a final test for the Wolverines to clinch their division or it will be a chance for them to play spoiler against their biggest rivals. Either way, this will be a big one to watch.

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Just about every 2013 NHL Playoff Team's A lot of Impressive Statistic.

The Boston Bruins guide the 2013 playoffs in alot of statistical categories. David Krejci is a leading scorer; Nathan Horton gets the top plus/minus. The Bruins lead your league in faceoff amount and hits and were the primary team to seven benefits.

Most impressively, they've won the main three games of their series with New York Rangers with three rookie defensemen within the lineup.

Injuries to major veterans Dennis Seidenberg, John Ference and Wade Redden caused Claude Julien to available Round 2 with first-year competitors Dougie Hamilton, Matt Bartkowski and Torey Krug patrolling a back corner end. Hamilton was virtually a veteran after 42 regular-season games, but Krug was the baby of the family along with just three games of NHL experience.

No topic. All three youngsters have got performed impressively, and Krug provides three points in her three playoff games.

Fluto Shinzawa with the Boston Globe reports that your rookies' fine play can them in the choice for Game 4, allowing the injured veterans somewhat more time to heal.

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Roberto Mancini Buys Full Page Advert to Thank Manchester City Fans: The Daily EPL

Roberto Mancini has said goodbye to Manchester City supporters with a full-page ad he bought in the local Manchester Evening News newspaper.

Most City supporters have a soft spot in their heart for Mancini, and feel disappointed that he's left the club. "Manchester City supporters, 3 unforgettable years. You will always be in my heart, Ciao Roberto Mancini," reads the ad. It'll be difficult for any City supporter to have anything negative to say about Mancini after that.

And just to rub it in to the Manchester City hierarchy, Mancini included photographs of the three trophies he won while he was City boss — the FA Cup, the Community Shield and the Premier League title. In your face City hierarchy!

The Daily EPL is your morning guide to the latest Premier League news headlines, so you don't have to spend an hour or more scanning the Internet. We do all the work for you. Read The Daily EPL on EPL Talk every morning to stay on top of all the news that matters.

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What Will Happen When the NFL Pushes Back Draft, Alters League Calendar?

ESPN's Adam Schefter tweeted the following, which, in essence, was the resurfacing of rumors that arose in late February:

Right now, the only people who know the NFL's specific intentions regarding a change in schedule are high-ranking NFL and NFLPA officials.

While no new developments have been reported about that idea as a whole, it may shed some light on what the NFL has in mind.

Pushing the draft back a few weeks would be pretty inconsequential, really. But if it precipitates more widespread change to the league calendar, it could be significant.

If the league year begins before the combine, it's safe to assume the always chaotic free-agency period would take place prior to the annual Under Armour Olympics. That would be a major alteration, as all 32 franchises would be forced to tweak their entire team-building strategy and scouting timeline altogether.

With the draft in May, it would likely provide more time for prospects to be scrutinized and hyped—if that's even possible—but it would also give draft hopefuls and veterans more time to heal from injuries.

Adjusting to a shortened period to prepare for the regular season would probably be met with some initial criticism by coaches and players, but a two-week difference isn't monumental. Having said that, OTAs would start later, probably sometime in June, which clearly would cut into rookies learning their respective playbooks.

In all likelihood, the NFL would see an increase in profits if the rumored "one-event-per-month" strategy comes to fruition. And for a league that America can't get enough of, one with all the leverage, making money is the top priority.

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Rangers beat Tigers 11-8 despite 3 HRs for Cabrera

Murphy put Texas ahead for good with a drive just over the wall in right field in the sixth inning, and the Rangers spoiled the second three-homer game of Cabrera's career with an 11-8 victory on Sunday night.

"Very nice to be on the winning side," Murphy said. "Big game, fun game, national TV. We got to witness the best hitter in the game hit three homers."

Cabrera hit a three-run homer in the third and a solo shot in the fifth off Derek Holland, then went deep again in the eighth against Tanner Scheppers.

Cabrera, the 2012 AL Triple Crown winner and this year's leader in average and RBIs, went 4 for 4 with 5 RBIs and has 11 homers, one off the AL lead.

Still, the Tigers lost three of four to the Rangers, who won a four-game series for the first time after twice losing with a chance to do it.

"I've never seen a guy that puts the bat head on the ball as regular as he does, and on all pitches," Rangers manager Ron Washington said. "He's just a tremendous hitter. I'm very happy that he's headed to the airport."

Murphy's homer gave the Rangers an 8-7 lead and answered a bases-loaded double from Prince Fielder that put Detroit up by two after the Rangers had walked Cabrera intentionally even though first base wasn't open.

The go-ahead shot came against Jose Ortega (0-1), who hadn't allowed a run in six relief appearances covering seven innings.

"He got me down 0-2, and I was basically in battle mode to do whatever I could to prolong the at-bat and get anything done in that situation," Murphy said.

Robbie Ross (2-0) pitched a scoreless seventh inning for the win, and Joe Nathan worked around a leadoff walk in the ninth for his 13th save. He has saved all 36 career chances against Detroit.

The Tigers led 4-1 after Cabrera hit a three-run homer over the Texas bullpen in right-center field in the third and added a solo shot to center off Holland, who had given up just two homers in 57-plus innings this year after setting a club record by allowing 32 homers last year.

The Rangers had wiped out that lead — and another one after Fielder's double — and were ahead 11-7 when Cabrera hit another solo homer to center off Scheppers.

"You don't feel very good when guys hit three home runs and you lose the game," Detroit manager Jim Leyland said. "Miggy never ceases to amaze you. I also take my hat off to Prince Fielder for that situation against a left-handed pitcher. Between the two of them, that was impressive."

The Rangers overcame Detroit's early lead with a four-run fifth highlighted by a pop fly double from Adrian Beltre that scored two and gave Texas a 5-4 lead.

Beltre went 4 for 5 with two doubles — both of them bloopers — and Geovany Soto and Lance Berkman had three hits apiece for the Rangers, who matched their season high with 18 hits.

Soto, who came in hitting .185, went 3 for 5 for the Rangers and had a fourth hit taken away when Andy Dirks caught a long drive to center while crashing into the wall.

Dirks' catch on Soto ended a string of six straight Texas batters reaching in the sixth against Ortega (0-1), who had allowed only five base runners this season.

Soto started both Texas rallies with leadoff hits in the fifth and sixth innings, when the Rangers scored eight of their runs.

The light-hitting catcher had a double to start the fifth and scored on a groundout by Elvis Andrus. Murphy, who also had a sacrifice fly, walked and Berkman drove in Craig Gentry with a single before Beltre's second double, which slipped out of Detroit shortstop Jhonny Peralta's glove just inside the left-field line.

Washington scrambled to protect a 5-4 lead in the sixth, finally ordering reliever Jason Frasor to walk Cabrera with runners at first and second when he got behind 3-1. Washington brought in left-hander Michael Kirkman to face Fielder, but the lefty slugger ripped his second double to the wall in center field.

Soto started the sixth with a single, and Andrus walked with one out before Murphy pulled a pitch from Ortega to right to put Texas ahead for good.

"Neither team quit fighting," Washington said. "It was a very good ballgame. It didn't matter what you tried to do. Each team came back, and we got the final blow and were able to sustain."

Holland and Detroit starter Doug Fister both went just 4 2-3 innings, the shortest outing of the year for Holland. The left-hander gave up eight hits and four runs with three walks and six strikeouts. Fister allowed nine hits and five runs.

Notes: Cabrera hit three homers on May 28, 2010, at home against Oakland. ... Rangers 2B Ian Kinsler went on the 15-day disabled list with bruised ribs, and top prospect Jurickson Profar was brought up from Triple-A Round Rock. Leury Garcia made his third straight start in Kinsler's place at second. ... Rangers C A.J. Pierzynski caught five innings in the first game of a rehab assignment at Double-A Frisco on Sunday. He went 0 for 3 with a strikeout and two groundouts. Pierzynski will catch RHP Colby Lewis' rehab start with Frisco on Monday.

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ACC Baseball Tournament 2013 Schedule: Dates, Times, Locations, TV Info and More

The 2013 ACC Baseball Tournament should include no shortage of drama. A difference of just four games separated the top five teams in the conference play. The parity should make for one of the most thrilling conference tournaments in the nation.

North Carolina enters as the top overall seed and will lead Pool A. Atlantic Division winner Florida State is the top team in Pool B. Defending champion Georgia Tech, which won the event as the No. 8 seed last year, is the No. 7 seed in 2013.

The tournament will consist of two groups of four teams that will complete three games of round-robin play. The winners of each pool will play in the championship game on Sunday. The low number of games leaves the door open for surprising runs like Georgia Tech's last year.

Let's take a look at all the key information for the tournament followed by a full schedule, preview and prediction for which team will take home the title.

North Carolina is undoubtedly the most balanced team in the tournament. The Tar Heels ranked first in the ACC in ERA, second in team batting average and third in home runs during the regular season.

The Heels' offensive attack is led by Colin Moran, who hit 13 home runs and racked up 83 RBI in 56 games. The bats are supported by a strong pitch staff. The dynamic starting duo of Hobbs Johnson and Kent Emanuel can match up with anybody in the conference.

Georgia Tech is capable of making another run despite a second straight lackluster regular season. The Yellow Jackets led the conference with 54 home runs. They hope to power their way to another title on the backs of Daniel Palka and Zane Evans, who combined for 31 homers.

Another team with the tools to make some noise in Durham is Virginia. The Cavaliers led the conference in batting average with a terrific .317 mark as a team and also ranked fourth in ERA. Mike Papi is the star to watch after hitting .408 to lead the ACC.

Rounding out the group of top contenders is Florida State. Starters Scott Sitz and Luke Weaver should ensure the Seminoles have enough pitching to make a title run. Getting timely hits from a mid-pack offense, whether it be DJ Stewart, Marcus Davis or an unsung hero, will be the key.

While those four teams have the best chance to win the ACC championship, Georgia Tech showed last season that it all comes down to momentum. The short event gives all eight teams a reasonable chance to emerge with the coveted title.

North Carolina has too many weapons to pick against. On offense, the Tar Heels can win by playing small ball, getting on base and using their speed, or simply out-slugging their opponents. And they have a terrific pitching staff to back it up.

The X-factor will be Trent Thornton. The pitcher has filled several different roles throughout the season and handled them all extremely well. He's 9-1 with a 1.43 ERA. His ability to lock down opposing offenses coming out of the pen will help North Carolina capture the ACC crown.

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What Have Indiana Pacers Learned Since Last Series vs. Miami Heat?

The Indiana Pacers eliminated the New York Knicks in Game 6 on May 18, giving themselves a chance to prove they've grown enough over the past year to do more than make a decent showing against the Miami Heat in the Eastern Conference Finals.

LeBron James and Co. knocked the Pacers out of the postseason in six games last year, but the team that fell in the Eastern Conference Semifinals hardly resembles the one that'll be taking the floor this time. Changes in personnel and philosophy, not to mention the general maturation of the club, have created a Pacers team that is far better equipped to handle the imposing Heat.

For starters, the player who made headlines for all the wrong reasons during last year's postseason run is making them for the right ones this time around.

Lance Stephenson got plenty of attention for making a "choking" gesture toward James in Game 3 of last year's series. At the time, Indiana's shooting guard was little more than an end-of-the-bench reserve. In fact, he logged a grand total of seven minutes in the six-game series between the Pacers and Heat last year.

His hustle sets the tone for Indiana's scrambling defense, and even though he's not the most skilled offensive player, he has proved himself capable of doing serious damage as a cutter and in transition.

If the Heat have any doubt about how much Stephenson has grown, they'll only have to look at his Game 6 performance against New York, in which he piled up 25 points, 10 rebounds and three assists on 9-of-13 shooting.

Plus, he's gone nearly a full year without giving a "choke" sign to any opposing superstars. Clearly, he's learned to let his play (and not his sophomoric gestures) do the talking.

Paul George was officially recognized as the NBA's most improved player this year, an honor he earned by taking on the leadership role vacated by an injured Danny Granger. George developed into one of the NBA's premier perimeter defenders during the 2012-13 campaign, and his value as a defensive option against James can't be overstated.

In last year's series, George was only the Pacers' fifth-leading scorer, accumulating nearly as many personal fouls (18) as made baskets (19).

In his most recent postseason action, though, George has proved that he's become nothing less than a dominant two-way star. In the just-completed series against the Knicks, George averaged 19.5 points, 7.0 rebounds and 5.0 assists per game while hounding Carmelo Anthony into a number of ugly shooting performances.

And during the 2012-13 season, George did a better job than anyone in his efforts to slow James down. Nobody can handle LBJ alone, but George now comes closer than most.

Speaking of defense, one of the biggest things the Pacers have learned over the past year is that they'll go as far as their scheme and defensive discipline can take them.

Two years ago, Indiana allowed 100.4 points per 100 possessions, which ranked 10th in the NBA. But this past season, Frank Vogel somehow got his team to buy into his defensive plans hook, line and sinker.

The result has been a team that almost never permits open threes from the corner or easy looks at the rim. George Hill, Stephenson and George are now experts at running shooters off of the line and forcing them into Roy Hibbert's space, where the big man gobbles up penetrators like a 7'2" "Hungry, Hungry Hippo."

Put those things together and it's easy to see why Indiana made an improvement of nearly four points per 100 possessions and easily led the NBA in defensive efficiency in 2012-13.

Objectively, Indiana is not yet on Miami's level. The Pacers' bench is still woefully thin, and if the Heat push the tempo at all, Hibbert loses a great deal of his effectiveness. All that notwithstanding, the Pacers did take two out of three from the Heat this year, including an impressive 87-77 win on Jan. 8 in which George outscored and out-rebounded James.

Ultimately, the Pacers have learned a few things since they fell to the Heat in last year's playoffs. But more importantly, they've seen their young players blossom, their defense morph into an elite weapon and their confidence explode.

All season long, it has seemed like the Pacers were the team that could give Miami the best run for its money in the East. Now, a year older and still nursing the pain of last year's bitter defeat, the Pacers will get their chance to do just that.

Via: Ancelotti leaves the PSG

Liverpool's Top and Worst Signings for the 2012-2013 Season.

Philippe Coutinho scored a 25-yard cracker, Jordon Ibe made their first-team debut and Liverpool dominated in the 1-0 home victory across relegated QPR.

Even if Jamie Carragher hadn't launched his retirement, Sunday's win at Anfield seemed like a perfect match to finish a season whose theme is actually transition and progress.

But considering that it happened, Sunday was Carragher's 737th along with final match for Gatwick, adding a touch of symbolism for the season's final Premier League game as being the old made way with the new.

An important summer time awaits—and, if recent reports have to be believed, an exciting move window too. But previous to transfer season starts in earnest on July 1, let's take a peek back on the preferred and worst signings for the season gone by.

Following your infamous wasted spending which blighted Kenny Dalglish's following reign at Anfield, Sahin did actually present a new era of transfers: young (23 a long time old), talented (he won the Bundesliga Player for the Season in 2011, aged just 22) obese experience at two major European clubs, he seemed to represent a new generation of Liverpool players, even if he had only linked on loan.

And this started well, too. Through the end of September, he had notched three goals and three assists inside of a Red shirt, and he was already being connected with a permanent move to Anfield right at the end of the season, as per ESPNFC.

Soon, however, Sahin lost his set up Brendan Rodgers' side. Some sort of deep-lying playmaker by business, he was often played with the No. 10 role regarding the strikers, a position he didn't enjoy and didn't prefer to play in, as reported through the Guardian. The relationship between player and coach soon soured to the extent that the financial loan deal was terminated too rapidly.

By then, the previously ignored financial facet of the loan deal resurfaced: As per Goal. com, Liverpool paid a £5 thousand thousand loan fee and promised to cover Sahin's yearly salary. Even providing for the premature termination, which perhaps have saved the Reds out of his second half-year wages (around £1. 1 million), Sahin found themselves costing a princely £6. 1 million to play for any half a season.

Even depth . the oft-injured and pricey Fabio Borini along with the spectacularly faded Joe Allen, together of whom hold long-term long term contracts at Anfield, that's terrible.

Before we talk about our main man, let's first pay tribute to your good work that was done inside January transfer window, in the event the new scouting team, recruited from Manchester City, first got their possibility to flex their muscles.

Daniel Sturridge has have scored 10 Premier League goals in 11 starts and actually, was neck-and-neck in that admittedly two-horse race to get named Liverpool's best signing with the season.

Prior to when Philippe Coutinho first walked onto the Anfield playing surface, the question was why Liverpool might want to sign an overhyped little one that Internazionale were ready to let go for this low fee.

After they twisted and turned quite a few a Premier League support inside out, scoring three league goals along the way and becoming Liverpool's joint-second-highest assister (five) with the season, the question became so why Inter even considered selling him whatsoever.

It's been a two years since Liverpool last had a fun filled No. 10—Luis Garcia wore it until 2007, when that it was taken over by Andriy Voronin together with Joe Cole—but in Coutinho, the Reds might have another gem to enhance the list.

Mazy dribbles, effective shots, mouthwatering through-balls, notable work rate. With every one of these qualities to his gameplay, watch out for the 2013-2014 season, when Philippe Coutinho could announce himself to be a Premier League force within a Liverpool shirt.

For more extensive coverage over the Premier League, check out my Bleacher Report writer's account and follow me @theredarmchair.

Via: Sergio Rodríguez, Rudy Fernández, Nocioni, Mirotic and Tomic, the ACB team

Manchester United Transfer News: Breaking Down Early Wayne Rooney Talk

A transfer saga is developing between Wayne Rooney and Manchester United. Retiring manager Sir Alex Ferguson confirmed the longtime United star requested a move but said the club isn't planning to let him go. It will make for an interesting summer.

Rooney has been an integral part of the United squad for the past nine seasons. The arrival of Robin van Persie prior to the club's latest championship campaign forced to him to move out of his natural striker role, though. His goal total dropped from 27 to 12 in league play.

A select group of United supporters let Rooney know how they felt about his transfer request by booing him during the title parade, according to Jamie Gordon of The Sun. It was a lowlight of the otherwise celebratory moment for the club.

While that would make it appear Rooney is starting to wear out his welcome after a terrific career with the Red Devils, the market for him hasn't been quick to heat up with the season coming to a close.

Sami Mokbel of the Daily Mail reports Arsenal are showing interest in the England international and have been considering a possible deal since March.

Less than 12 months after selling Robin van Persie to this season's Premier League champions, the Gunners are plotting an equally dramatic move for his troubled team-mate.

Sportsmail can reveal the club's backroom team first raised the possibility of a move for the England striker at a scouting meeting in March, having been alerted to Rooney's problems at Old Trafford.

Yet Gunners manager Arsene Wenger stated there has been no contact with United about Rooney, as reported by ESPN. He made it clear the club is focused on the season finale and not summer transfer plans.

I don't know if Man United will sell Rooney and that is the best sign to show you we have not made any approach for him because the first move is to contact Manchester United, which we did not do. At the moment we are focused on Sunday.

Another club to distance itself from the Rooney talk is Bayern Munich. The German side will play Borussia Dortmund for the Champions League title later in the month. While they might win the coveted trophy, it doesn't sound like they are going to pursue Rooney.

I don't know what Rooney would bring to the Bundesliga. I can't answer that. I can answer that we have great respect for Wayne Rooney but there has been no contact with him. There is no contact and he's not on the agenda. No, no. Absolutely not.

Given the limited number of clubs capable of handling both the transfer fee and Rooney's contract, it's a big deal when even one of those sides says it's not interested. It takes an option off the table if the striker does plan to keep pushing for a way out.

The decision by Rooney to request a move is somewhat surprising. Even though his role has changed, United are coming off a title-winning campaign, are headed for the Champions League again and he finally seemed to develop chemistry with van Persie in the latter stages of the season.

Yet there was talk about problems in paradise ever since Rooney was left on the bench during the club's UCL elimination against Real Madrid. So, the request probably didn't catch the club completely off guard. Now United must decide whether they want to indeed keep him or alter their stance once the campaign ends.

The situation has the feel of one that could drag on over the course of the entire summer, similar to the van Persie ordeal last year. As of now, where Rooney will play next season is anyone's guess.

More Info: The sports out of the descent at the expense of Espanyol

Novak Djokovic maintains positive outlook despite early Madrid, Rome exits

Top-ranked Novak Djokovic is still optimistic about his chances at the Roland Garros 2013 tournament which begins a week from now despite his early exits at the Madrid Masters and Rome Masters which is currently ongoing. Last week, Djokovic was eliminated by Bulgaria's Grigor Dimitrov and this week, he fell to Tomas Berdych in the quarterfinals despite having served for the match in the second set. The French Open is the only Grand Slam event that Djokovic has yet to win out of the four Grand Slams and he was close to achieving the career Grand Slam last year but lost at the Paris final to Rafael Nadal.

"It's not the result I was hoping for. On the other hand, I'm positive I will continue playing better and better as the days go by," said Djokovic about his losses. "I will take some time off. I will try to get ready for Paris, which is the most important event of the year for me. I'm really looking forward to that. I know I can play well on clay but I shouldn't allow myself to have drops during the match. Hopefully it won't happen in Roland Garros.

"I believe that I can go all the way. It's a very long tournament and two weeks. I don't want to make any predictions. It's not necessary. I need to take it step by step. I need to get ready and practise more, so hopefully I will be in top shape for Paris," he added.

Djokovic compiled 11 wins in a row against Berdych. The last time the Czech beat Djokovic was at the Wimbledon semifinal in 2010. Since then, Djokovic has won their last 11 encounters, including two matches this season (Australian Open and Dubai).

"I always have high expectations for myself, so it's not easy to lose. But you congratulate the opponent who was brave enough and took his chances. He won deservedly, so I'm moving on," said Djokovic.

"He has been just behind the Top 4 for quite a few years. He is one of the contenders to win Grand Slam titles. He has won against the big players in Grand Slams. He won against me in the semi-finals at Wimbledon a few years ago, [beat] Roger [Federer] and pushed Andy [Murray] a few times. He's able to play big matches. He has proven that on several occasions in the past. He is a very dangerous player on any surface with a serve like that."

Link: Leonardo (PSG): "Ancelotti has asked us go to Real Madrid"

Lukaku arranged for showdown Chelsea talks amid Everton, Fulham & Western side Ham... - Goal. com Singapore.

The Merseysiders are among the favourites to sign your Belgian striker on loan should the Europa League finalists deem him not happy to compete for a first-team place next season

Romelu Lukaku will have showdown talks with Chelsea tuesday about his destination following that season amid a stampede from interest from Premier League clubs, Goal. com is aware.

Every top-flight club not in the Champions League-chasers have expressed an interest in taking the Belgian striker at loan next season, however , Everton, Fulham and West Ham are typically pole position should a west Londoners conclude that this 20-year-old is not yet wanting to challenge for a first-team place at Stamford Bridge.

Even though Everton having yet so that you can appoint a successor to Manchester United-bound David Moyes, there's a simple long-standing interest in Lukaku of the fact that club's hierarchy are keen to adhere to through with.

Chelsea are considered to want Lukaku in their squad using a successful loan spell for West Brom, where his 14 league goals have steered that Baggies to eighth within the Premier League.

The Stamford Bridge hierarchy will talk to the striker after your domestic season finishes on Sunday to go over their plans for following that term.

His temporary employers Western side Brom are among greater dozen Premier League clubs who have enquired about taking the powerful forward on personal loan, with Chelsea dismissing the possibility of him being loaned out to the rival Champions League-calibre membership.

However, the likelihood is growing that Lukaku will travel with Chelsea on the pre-season tour, where incoming manager Jose Mourinho will have the chance to run the rule above his new charge with close quarters.

The £18 million signing has yet to score with the Blues in 12 shows, only four of that had been starts, but he has blossomed within the Midlands and enhanced his reputation as one of the most exciting young strikers with Europe.

Via: Carlo Ancelotti: "my will is to leave PSG"

So, Phil Jackson Tweeted A Picture Of His 13 NBA Championship Rings

Phil Jackson is making news on Twitter, again. There's just something about an old, yet smart and famous man tweeting that fosters entertainment.

Adam Schefter An oversight on another member of Class of 98 RT: @PatrickMannelly I know I'm just a longsnapper but you forgot about me. Class of 98.

Grant Wahl MLS Disciplinary Committee more active than ever. Retro-bans for Edson Buddle, Mario De Luna, Kwame Watson-Siriboe, Johnny Leveron.

More Info: The Obradoiro gets into the playoffs and will face Real Madrid

Stoke Town Player Puts Bloody Pig Head In Muslim Teammate’s Locker, Does respond By Throwing Brick As a result of Random Player’s Windshield.

Irish international defender Glenn Whelan loves to have fun (as this Irish are wont to help do). So when teammate Kenwyne Jones told Glenn to keep him out of your end of the season shenanigans, that only stoked the mischievous flames inside the merry prankster. Flames that will ultimately crossed the brand, because Jones is a Muslim, and Islam isn't an immense fan of pigs (or hilarity about Islam).

Despite the "joke" being a completely disgusting, it will possibly not have warranted an irate Kenwyne Jones running out on the team parking lot and additionally throwing a brick because of Whelan's car window. That just makes him be like a bigger asshole. Hit up Twitter to be able to bitch — don't act out like an angry zealot. More notably, where the hell did he acquire a brick from? Do they practice within a Russian prison yard?

Secondly i've apologised to glen whelan for any destruction of his premises, for all the ppl that think I did micheal Owen's car I didn't

Ethan Strauss RT @bomani_jones I'd get dream at no. 4 behind kareem, wilt in addition to russell (in that order). create duncan a center, along with i take dream around him.

Bethlehem Shoals @bomani_jones What's tricky to me is that the rationale for Wilt is similar to Shaq. Wilt has more curriculum vitae but his DOMINANCE is a main pt

Bomani Jones all then again, i'd take dream for no. 4 behind kareem, wilt and additionally russell (in that order). generate duncan a center, in addition to i take dream over him.

Link: The Barca defeated Valladolid (2-1) the day of the celebration of his title of League in Camp Nou

Isco a good target for Manchester City - The sun.

The Spanish club have confirmed their coach Manuel Pellegrini can be free to leave inside the summer — paving the best way for him to proceed to the Etihad.

But City can be making progress in your move for young midfield star Isco — who carries a £27million release clause inside his contract at L . a . Roseleda.

The 21-year-old — whom made his international debut in February — can be considered one of the most effective young attacking midfielders in Spain amd is furthermore a target for Serious Madrid.

He has played with Pellegrini at Malaga for the last two years and the idea now looks likely the pair is going to be reunited at City come early july.

Isco is believed being keen on making the move nonetheless Sky Blues are hoping they can drive down the purchase price.

Ironically he was one of several players Mancini was addicted to and he made a personal check on the midfielder earlier in the season.

Meanwhile, the wheels can also be in motion to safeguarded the 59-year-old Chilean discipline Pellegrini, who still has two years left to run at his contract with a Champions League quarter finalists.

Still, caretaker boss Brian Kidd is in charge for the final match in the season at Norwich on Sunday — and as well for the post-season trip to New York.

Pellegrini would not be able to begin his duties together with the deposed champions until 06 2 as his active club's final match is normally earlier that weekend.

Malaga have run straight into financial difficulties and accept there is absolutely no chance of keeping the Chilean for the long-term in light of City's interest.

Link: The Schalke gets into Champions and Fortuna Düsseldorf falls to second in Germany

Column: A cartel by any title still a cartel

The cartel previously known as the Bowl Championship Series has changed its name. Since nothing says school baseball playoff better than, well, College Football Playoff. Yeah, it's unimaginative. The capital letters are pretentious, also. But tell me you don't envy the marketing specialists who were called in and almost dared to provide the old BCS crowd a dose of these own medicine. Advisor A: "How about the SEC Championship?" Specialist B: "Just because they won the last seven does not mean they will win the next seven. Besides, it's already taken." Specialist C: "The Grifters?" Consultant B: "Same problem." 5 minutes of silence ensues. Advisor A: "I first got it. Think about college football playoff?" Consultant B: "Hmmm. Limited, and to the level, but let's ensure it is limits. OKAY? We are unanimous, then? ... Great, call room service and keep these things send up lunch." Guide A: "Just therefore it seems like we really did something for several that money?" Expert B: "Exactly. Because game acknowledges game." In equity, there is plenty to like about the upgrade. Most critical, after two decades approximately of ignoring public opinion, the blazers who hijacked school football's postseason have finally agreed to some semblance of a playoff. For another thing, those dreadful money characters NCAA continue to be nowhere to be found. And for a third, there will be seven big activities instead of five, and with both semifinals and four other main plates scheduled for New Year's Eve or New Year's Day, the activity is reclaiming what was previously its best time of the entire year. Nevertheless the disadvantage is considerable, also. It still focuses too much money and much more energy in the hands of too few. By successfully gutting what was previously the Big East, the commissioners of the five remaining power seminars a SEC, ACC, Big 10, Pac-12 and Big 12 a' is likely to be able to arrange even more slots in big-paying dishes due to their category members, and take home an even bigger share of the excess loot a playoff system earns. Plus, chances that an outlier like Boise State, or a team from the Mid-American or Sun Belt meetings, could get a title shot, or a position in one of different payday activities, aren't a lot better than they were under the previous system. Even though the hush money they will get to just forget about anti-trust problems will make it just a little more straightforward to take. There's also the matter of picking a selection committee to decide which groups end up in the playoffs. The exact same cabal may have a disproportionate say for the reason that subject, also. Therefore far, they've hinted at some thing modeled after the board that picks the clubs for the NCAA basketball tournament a' made up of discussion commissioners and athletic directors a but with far less visibility. That much should have been clear when Big 12 commissioner Bob Bowlsby said one aim of the redesign was to come up with some thing "more just like the Masters than NASCAR". While most people thought that reflected a want to distance corporate sponsorship from the newest name, what the good-old boy network probably had in mind was a dozen roughly men in blazers deciding things virtually because they pleased. Speaking of misdirection, there is already a website up and operating, www.collegefootballplayoff.com, encouraging visitors to cast their votes on a fresh brand. Above the four alternatives is the motto, "It is Your Playoff. It is Your Choice." Obviously, if there clearly was really any truth in advertising, that slogan could have involved a third sentence: "But it is still our money." The strange thing is that the truly good news for fans of the game came in a much-less publicized shift Tuesday at the same Pasadena, Calif., hotel. It absolutely was an announcement by ACC commissioner John Swofford that league members had agreed to sign over their TV rights to the discussion through 2027, efficiently turning off any more modification of conferences for the foreseeable future. Three of the five other important participants a the Big Ten, Pac-12 and Big 12 a' have similar arrangements in position, and whilst the SEC has not asked its schools to do the same, the category is indeed rich that chances any member could bolt are in regards to the same as Alabama coach Nick Saban going for a day removed from work. That signals the almost-certain end of a chaotic age, if nothing else. The big-name schools and conventions won't be playing musical chairs, or shuffling rivalries like Michigan-Ohio State all over the schedule to fit out a few extra dollars. There's already a term for that, and it will not require marketing specialists to find it. It is called a truce, and even more when compared to a playoff, it suggests the game is going to be balanced yet again a' or at the least until the next cash grab comes along. Dumb Jim Litke is just a national sports columnist for The Associated Press. Write to him at jlitke( at )ap.org and follow him at twitter.com/JimLitke

Borussia Dortmund 4, Real Madrid 1 (Yes, 4-1) - Washington Post - Washington Post (website)

A Bundesliga vs. Bundesliga meeting in the UEFA Champions League final moved closer to fruition Wednesday as Borussia Dortmund followed in Bayern Munichas respected footsteps with a triumph over visiting Real Madrid. Robert Lewandowski obtained four times. The second leg is next week in Spain. Two German clubs have not encountered one another for the European champion. Video:

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Arsenal 1 Manchester United 1 match report: Robin Van Persie penalty generates... - The Independent

Someone at the Emirates forgot to send the memo, if the program was to mind out Robin van Persie with utter violence, or to fill his head with endless accusations of betrayal then, quite frankly. When it was the proverbial cauldron of hate you're expecting then try elsewhere: a different ground, a time, a different demographic of supporters. Yes, Van Persieas name was booed by the Arsenal fans, he was booed by them when he arrived of the canal for the start of the game and when he won his teamas purpose from the penalty area shortly before half-time they got very angry. It had been said that some remote Arsenal supporters appeared to be applauding their former chief in defiance of the overall mood but that's so difficult to inform. The majority might have arrive at the ground on Sunday with the intention of dishing it out to Van Persie but it was hard to avoid the feeling that numerous of the Arsenal service never truly resulted in the switch. They didn't desire to accede to ArsAne Wengeras demand that he should really be accepted awith classa and they can scarcely follow the guard of honour the Arsenal participants were obliged to form before the game. But a dangerous atmosphere? Rarely. No one was expecting, or wanting to see, any such thing targeted at Van Persie that was beyond the pale. But what was a surprise, even by the standards of the Emirates, was just how in which an event became a non-event. aDisappointed love,a was how Wenger summed up the fansa effect. Frustrating just about covered it. System gave the kind of performance that however will have advised Van Persie why he could not satisfy his dreams at the club. They began such as for instance a train with a goal from Theo Walcott in the very first two minutes while the game was begun by United at half-pace. Then, when it was expected of Arsenal in the 2nd half to step-up the speed and overwhelm an adversary who had absolutely nothing riding on the match, they just didn't have the overall game to take action. Any comparison between Lukas Podolski, playing as centre-forward in the absence of the hanging Olivier Giroud, to Van Persie only seems unnecessarily harsh. The Germany global is not a Premier League centre-forward, not by any stretch of the imagination, and any winning target, after Van Persieas equaliser, was more prone to result from Santi Cazorla or Walcott. As they approach the last three games of the season what must be such a fear for Arsenal supporters was the inability of these people to increase several things when they really needed three things. Despite Jack Wilshere on the past 28 minutes they might not enhance the pace more than United managed, and United are simply just fulfilling fittings. Strategy are fourth, two points before Tottenham who perform Chelsea on 8 May possibly in that extra game both have over Arsenal. Arsenalas place in regards to obtaining Champions League baseball next period is far from perfect though it isn't difficult. They can't countenance anything besides a victory in Saturdayas sport against directed Queenas Park Rangers at Loftus Road. Their last two activities, in the home to Wigan Athletic and away to Newcastle, on the final day of the summer season, are against sides for whom relegation remains a possibility to a or lesser degree. For that purpose Wenger declined to state definitively what the value of the position was, choosing to defer that issue until the end of the year. He said that the purpose conceded before the break obliged his side to be much more open and fighting in the 2nd half, while it was United who had definitely the better odds on the counter attack. The Arsenal purpose was a, worked forward from Van Persieas mistake which conceded property. The ball reached Tomas Rosicky in three passes and he slipped it via a very square backline to Walcott, very somewhat offside, who beat David De Gea from the tightish position with the absolute power of his shot. From as Phil Dowd started scheduling players at will that point it looked promising for Arsenal. In defense of the referee he got the two major calls right. Bacary Sagnaas vacation on Van Persie, after he'd tried to get right back the ball he'd lazily given away, was a definite charge. So also was a by Antonio Valencia just away from area in the next half, in place of inside whilst the Arsenal players protested. That said, all the yellow cards in the very first half were something of a hostage to fortune. Sagna should have gone for a yellow card in the second half when he fouled Patrice Evra but at that time Dowd was in a more forgiving mood. Before then, Van Persie was arranged for a on Per Mertesacker and was refused with a good save yourself from Wojciech Szczesny at close range. Particular the ball player might report when he stepped up to just take the charge also Wenger was forced to acknowledge that he was a80 per centa. By the conclusion of the overall game there was nine concerns, five of these for United participants, only a little exorbitant in the circumstances and indicative of the bar being set very low in early stages by Dowd. Ferguson complained about that nevertheless the way he burst out of his seat in protest at a cost by Aaron Ramsey on Nani early in the overall game suggested he was getting this 1 really. Adam Rooney was substituted again by Ferguson on another very quiet day for the striker. He aimed a header straight at Szczesny prior to the hour. In the final stages, Rio Ferdinand was probably fortunate to obtain away with a problem on Kieran Gibbs which may have already been a charge. Ryan Giggs got on and had a picture with his right foot. At the end of the game, Van Persie opposed the goading, although quite low-key, from the tunnel was waited around by the Arsenal fans who to boo him. Wenger said later that the clubas former leader had come right into the dressing room to see his old team-mates and the Arsenal manager was very happy about that. It is hard to see a player who left United in equally nasty situations being granted the exact same freedom by Ferguson but that is far from the sole difference between those two groups.

Dougie Freedman fails Italian tradition for Spain pre-season trip.

Points-wise, it was a stop/start beginning to help Dougie Freedman's Bolton Wanderers period. The Trotters had prevented losing matches but wins were difficult to find, as was evidenced from the Manager's first eight matches in control. In that stretch, Wanderers maintained two wins, five brings, and one loss for any total of 11 elements.

Despite the increase within points per game (1. 375 on the 1. 1 Owen Coyle managed in the season's first ten matches), the Trotters weren't climbing the table. In truth, their league would actually get worse before it got more desirable with Bolton dropping to 20th invest February before beginning this climb to sixth position.

The reasons for that lag in success (judged by way of league position) are plenty but perhaps the obvious ones were the a shortage of fitness among the players and not enough discipline on the niche. Perhaps Owen Coyle assumed, like the fans, that his Wanderers team would walk with the Championship without breaking a sweat and of course, elected to go with a light pre-season. The team suffered for it.

Summer 2012 saw Bolton's earliest team play eight preseason accessories from 18 July to 10 August along with the U21s playing seven other friendlies. This summer, there are actually just eight friendlies reserved for both teams along with the first team slated with regard to three matches. Ahead of those clashes, Freedman is determined to have the team up to fitness with a week-long training camp around La Magna, Spain.

The Spain trip signals a new experience of pace for Freedman, who had previously made annual pilgrimages to Italy to be able to study and learn more about the game. In a Mar 2012 interview, some 15 months following taking the Crystal Palace post (and a few months before arriving at Bolton), Freedman spoke about this penchant for calcio in the interview with the The united kingdom Evening Standard.

"People talk about that Spanish but the country most abundant in in terms of emotional strength and tactical practical knowledge is Italy. They say that is my first job although nobody knew I put in my summers at Palermo's exercising ground, at Milan's exercise ground.

"I have a couple of friends who have enjoyed over there and and just through a few partners I managed to spend a few weeks over the past eight or nine summers exploring there, and only there, because it is the best place to learn about this online game. "

While other players in addition to managers spent their summers on beaches all over the globe, the then-Crystal Palace Manager would enjoy the game of football in the correct way that he could visualize.

"It's been a approach. It's not just an instance of stop playing along with suddenly you're a manger. I have already been working towards this for many years, sacrificing a lot of energy, spending summer holidays watching Palermo train.

"I wanted for any new perspective and brand-new mentality and I was feeling the Italians are the strongest in terms of a winning mentality together with tactical knowledge.

"It was my late 20s to look at started having an involvement in working out how the top teams go about winning and started investigating Italy. I also felt this ought to give something back. inch

It's that experience that has begun to pay dividends for ones faith that Bolton Wanderers placed in the young manager. A much stronger defense coupled with tactically knowledgeable of play saw the Trotters increase into play-off contention, ultimately to forget goal difference. It was a remarkable two-month-long surge that procured Wanderers from 20th place as many as 6th.

A hardened immunity, tactical acuity, and the opportunity to grind out results. Bolton Wanderers fans realize they can thank with the.

Via: The Valencia win in Getafe and gets pressure to the Royal Society

Arsenal FC vs Manchester United Preview - Goal.com

The Spaniard's injury means Wilshere is likely to sit alongside Aaron Ramsey in midfield, with Tomas Rosicky playing in the free role behind the striker and Santi Cazorla shifting to a wide left position.

Olivier Giroud faces a three-match ban for his red card in that game meaning either Theo Walcott, Gervinho or Lukas Podolski will lead the line for the Gunners.

After Jonny Evans picked up a knock in that win, Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic - who missed the title-clinching tie - are both set to return to the side with Phil Jones perhaps deployed in midfield.

Michael Carrick is also likely to be rested after playing through injury against Villa. Expect the likes of Danny Welbeck, Chicharito, Tom Cleverley and Nani to feature from the start.

The Dutchman has scored in each of his last three appearances where Arsenal have played against Man Utd, twice for the Gunners and last time out for the Red Devils.

Wayne Rooney scored his first Premier League goal, his first in the league for Man Utd and his 100th Premier League goal all against Arsenal.

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Who Do You Want to Finish In Fourth Place: Arsenal or Tottenham? [POLL]

No matter whether you support Arsenal, Tottenham or any other club, here's a poll we can all participate in… who do we want to see finish in fourth place?

We're not asking who you think will finish in fourth. Arsenal have their destiny in their own hands, and all they need is a win to guarantee fourth. Even a draw or a loss could be enough depending on what Spurs do against Sunderland.

And, of course, there's the complication that Arsenal could end up finishing joint third with Chelsea that would require a third-place playoff. But the chances of that happening are slim right now.

The difference between fourth and fifth is mammoth in the Premier League. Fourth place guarantees UEFA Champions League qualification. Fifth place means Europa League.

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The capital Masters 2013: Highlighting Largest Disappointments at Italian Amenable.

The Rome Masters could be the last stop for most of tennis' top stars previous to they gear up with the season's second Grand Slam: a French Open at Roland Garros.

Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer have been strong to this point on the men's side, and top-ranked female members Serena Williams and Victoria Azarenka have cruised in the women's draw.

World No. 1 Novak Djokovic has become inconsistent since knocking from Rafael Nadal in Monte Carlo very last month. He lost in the second round of a Madrid Masters to Grigor Dimitrov and was defeated by Tomas Berdych within the quarterfinals of Rome this particular week.

Djokovic struggled mightily within his return game vs Berdych, winning just 20 percent of his first-serve return points for the match.

You have to believe he'll patch up his game before maneuvering to the French Open, but he's missed another golden possibility to put some doubt around Rafael Nadal's mind prior to a year's second major.

The fact that Djokovic is considered being the one guy competent at upending Nadal in Paris this summer is what makes this Rome performance so aggravating.

Following a first-round bye in Ancient rome this week, women's country No. 4 Agnieszka Radwanska been found a disappointing effort inside her first match within the tournament: a second-round loss to Simona Halep.

The 24-year-old Polish star never been particularly dominant at clay, winning just two career singles titles on the surface and never getting beyond daylight hours fourth round at your French Open. But there isn't a excuse for dropping a final two sets 1-6, 2-6 to somewhat of a player ranked No. 64 in the world.

Halep is a clay-court doctor, but if Radwanska might contend for the Certainly no. 1 ranking, she has to be able to overcome lesser players with challenging surfaces.

After early exits in Madrid and after this Rome, Radwanska looks poised designed for another early exit inside the French Open this summer season.

It's hard to believe that Juan Martin delete Potro hasn't strung together consecutive match wins considering Indian Wells last April.

The 6'6" Argentine damaged or lost his first match at the Miami Masters soon right after Indian Wells and fell inside the third round at Monte Carlo very last month. And in Ancient rome on Thursday he fallen his third-round match next to Benoit Paire, falling in straight sets with the unseeded Frenchman.

The result is a huge disappointment for the 2009 U. S. Open winner, who has won four clay-court tournaments during his career.

Delpo reached the quarterfinals within the French Open in 2012 and the semifinals at Roland Garros four years ago. In between those impressive runs with the French Open, he bowed out inside third round in 2011.

And yes it looks like he will conduct the same in 2013 according to what we've seen from him on the red stuff thus considerably.

Roberto Mancini Sacked By Manchester City: Official Statement

"It is with regret that Manchester City Football Club announces that Roberto Mancini has been relieved of his duties as Manchester City Manager.

"This has been a difficult decision for the owner, Chairman and Board to make and it is the outcome of a planned end of season review process that  has been brought forward in light of recent speculation and out of respect for Roberto and his extensive contributions to the Football Club.

"Despite everyone's best efforts, the Club has failed to achieve any of its stated targets this year, with the exception of qualification for next season's UEFA Champions League. This, combined with an identified need to develop a holistic approach to all aspects of football at the Club, has meant that the decision has been taken to find a new manager for the 2013/14 season and beyond.

"Chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak said: 'Roberto's record speaks for itself and he has the respect and gratitude of Sheikh Mansour, myself and the Board for all of his hard work and commitment over the last three and a half years. He has clearly also secured the love and respect of our fans. He has done as he promised and delivered silverware and success, breaking the Club's 35-year trophy drought and securing the title in 2012. I would like to personally and publicly thank him for his dedication to the progress that he has overseen and for his support and continued friendship.'

"Assistant Manager Brian Kidd will take interim responsibility for the remaining two games of the season and the post-season tour to the United States."

In the meantime, Manchester City reportedly continue their negotiations behind the scenes to try to sign Malaga manager Manuel Pellegrini as their new gaffer to replace Mancini.

What's your reaction to the breaking news? Do you think Manchester City made the right move by sacking Mancini, or did the club handicap the manager by not communicating with him and not giving him the depth in talent that he needed last summer? Share your reaction in the comments section below.

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Preakness 2013 Publish Positions: Horses with Smallest Advantageous Starting Spots.

Although post positions will not be as important in your Preakness with nine horses entered rather than 19 in the Kentucky Derby, they will come into play to some degree. Perhaps they won't stop a horse from receiving, but they can make the project far more difficult.

An insufficient draw shouldn't necessarily deter you from betting for a horse, but it should truly make you think twice and consider additional options. There are a amount of different things to consider, and post positions are among them.

Here are three horses that must overcome poor starting spots if they hope to make an impression in Saturday's Preakness Stakes.

Arguably the most disappointing horse in the Kentucky Derby was Goldencents. He entered the race on the list of top contenders, but he got caught a very dangerous game. Goldencents and Palace Malice placed an unsustainable pace early and Goldencents ended up fading. He ultimately finished 17th and crippled a great deal of bettors in the course of action. It'll be tough for him you need to do much worse in this Preakness, but that doesn't show that he'll rebound.

Goldencents received the No. 2 position, which means he are going to have wait to create his move. While going directly to the front hurt Goldencents within the Kentucky Derby, that is normally his strength. He should set the pace, but he just ought to do it more realistically.

Starting second will probably force him in the future from behind as he may be right on a rail. Trainer Doug O'Neill believes that your Derby should be dumped as things didn't separate Goldencents' way, according to KY Derby Contenders, but things are unlikely to go well for him from this race either.

Jockey Kevin Krigger will clearly have his work lower out for him. Orb is technically in a worse position at Zero. 1, but being indoors could actually play so that you can Orb's strengths. The same can't become said for Goldencents as he may need to go outside his comfort zone in order to prevail.

Much like Goldencents, Itsmyluckyday went from darling to dud in the Kentucky Derby as he finished 15th after wasting his energy early within the race. He is wanting to rebound in the Preakness, nevertheless it really won't be easy.

Itsmyluckyday is starting on the extreme outside post with No. 9. That needless to say isn't as disadvantageous like starting No. 19 within the Kentucky Derby, but it definitely limits jockey John Velazquez's choices.

Generally speaking, it is for the best to be near the middle as that is the spot where the most avenues open up. Starting outside means of which Itsmyluckyday will almost be forced to hang back and make a late move. That simply a bad thing, but if you're facing a closer such as Orb, it's very difficult to produce progress.

Itsmyluckyday's best strategy would probably be staying near leading early so that they can build a lead and maybe hold off Orb, but he'll be hard pressed to do that from No. 9.

It wouldn't be fair to talk about that Itsmyluckyday has no chance because he is obviously a talented horse. His dominance at Gulfstream Park ahead of Derby proves that. At the same time, he needs everything to go perfectly so as to contend for the earn. That already can't happen since outside lane won't allow him the trip this Velazquez desires.

As the longest shot within the entire Preakness field, the odds are already stacked with Titletown Five. Starting in the No. 3 position will likely not do him any wedding favors either. The unheralded colt has not gotten much love with the bettors heading into this Preakness, and that probably has more to do with his light track capture than his post pull. With that said, beginning No. 3 is likely to hurt Titletown Five even more than it helps the dog.

The D. Wayne Lukas-trained horse undoubtedly has some ability as he surely could make it into your Preakness field, however, this individual only has one career victory, which occurred made use of in October of not too long ago. One thing that Titletown Five comes with to his credit, despite the fact that, is finishing ahead associated with Kentucky Derby winner Orb very last August at Saratoga, as reported by Mark Singelais of that Albany Times Union.

That happened many years ago and Orb comes with gotten significantly better consequently. If Titletown Five has the capacity to finish ahead of Orb once again, it will be deemed a monumental upset. Whilst the No. 3 spot doesn't necessarily preclude Titletown Five from addressing the front early, it can make it much more difficult.

Aiming to close late alongside Orb is literally a death wish since Orb has proven capable of flying down the extend. Titletown Five's chances are certainly not great anyway, but the No. 3 slot will likely not help.

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Blatter disorders tiny Roma fine with regard to racism.

ZURICH (AP) — FIFA Director Sepp Blatter says he may protest to Italian soccer authorities using a decision to only fine Roma the same as $65, 000 after your fans racially abused AIR CONDITIONING Milan players.

Play was stopped for almost two minutes during the other half of Sunday's online game when visiting Roma supporters may not stop chanting at Milan game enthusiasts Mario Balotelli and Kevin-Prince Boateng.

Warnings issued on the stadium speaker system journeyed unheeded, leading to a Serie Your match being suspended as a consequence of racism for the first time.

FIFA President Sepp Blatter provides put renewed vigor in the fight against racism due to the fact Milan midfielder Kevin-Prince Boateng led his teammates heli-copter flight pitch when he ended up being racially abused during an exhibition game against some sort of Italian fourth-tier side with January.

Blatter is unhappy that latest case was so quickly wrapped up by Italian soccer officials, while branding "small fines with regard to racist abuse unacceptable. "

"What is surprising and it is not understandable for me, is that the disciplinary committee in the Italian Football Federation has taken a decision, not even twenty four hours after the event, just by imposing a fine, inches Blatter said Tuesday concerning FIFA's website. "They didn't made any investigation from what happened. And simply give a pecuniary sanction isn't valid, that is not acceptable. You will at all times find money.

"What is normally 50, 000 euros for such an incident? I'm not happy and I can call the Italian Federation. That's not the way to deal with such is so important. "

The Boateng incident inside January followed a spate with racial-abuse cases in He uk and prompted Blatter to determine a task force to help you propose stricter sanctions.

In plans being presented to your FIFA Congress later this particular month, teams face being thrown out of competitions or perhaps even relegated if their people, officials or fans are only guilty of any version of discrimination.

"In this conclusion, there are foreseen sanctions — and these sanctions must be applied everywhere over the world, " Blatter said. "That's why we need to have the congress's decision. Which will bind together all the 209 associations.

"I'm pumped up about that and I can hope, that there we'll be no other incidents prior to the 30 May, when we will overcome this matter in Mauritius... I appeal to everybody for additional discipline and respect. inches

UEFA wants a partial stadium closure to become imposed on clubs if you have racism in the stands — rather than just a fine to get a racist offense. If there is further incidents, UEFA is advocating clubs being forced to play matches nowadays.

The English Football Association is seeking to push through its own plans in a five-game minimum ban for racist abuse at a unique annual general meeting the following week.

In England massive, Liverpool striker Luis Suarez received an eight-match ban meant for racially abusing an competitor and Chelsea captain David Terry was suspended with regard to four matches.

Were the New England Patriots Wrong to Cut Kyle Love After Diabetes Diagnosis?

Were the New England Patriots wrong to cut defensive tackle Kyle Love after his recent diagnosis with Type 2 diabetes?

Love's health is, of course, paramount, and I think I speak for all of New England in wishing him the best, both medically and professionally. He's already signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars, and I'm happy for him.

The simple question still gnaws at me though, and while I respect any team's right to waive any player it so desires, I can't help but wonder if the Patriots missed the mark this time.

For years, fans have been bludgeoned with the notion that the Patriots run their team differently than other franchises; that somehow they're above the common off-the-field and inside-the-locker room issues that plague the NFL's proletariat.

After all, if they consistently succeed in a way no other franchise has during the salary-cap era, they must be running things differently behind the scenes to make it so. Nobody can effectively quantify their secret to success, so we just call it the "Patriot way" as the mystique continues to build.

From where I'm sitting, the bottom line seems to be winning football games and finding players committed to that cause. It's a great concept, and the whole "no I in team" mentality is an admirable one, but we often overlook the ruthless flip-side to that coin.

Placing the team first, by definition, makes individuals expendable. We've seen it before. Bill Belichick jettisoned Lawyer Milloy, Ty Law, Richard Seymour, Mike Vrabel and Randy Moss, to name a few. He waived Tiquan Underwood in cold blood the day before the Super Bowl. He pushed New England's beloved Wes Welker into archrival Peyton Manning's open arms.

Those were all football decisions. Nobody said they were easy choices, and Belichick gets paid big bucks in part because he's not afraid to make unpopular moves for the good of his team.

Love's agent, Richard Kopelman, told the Boston Herald that this, however, was not a football decision.  It was based purely on Love's medical condition.

"I was assured this was pure and simple a medical decision," Kopelman said. "I asked, 'Was there something else at play here?' And I was told no, it's 100 percent a medical decision, and that's all there is to it."

To hear him tell it, the Patriots gave Love an ultimatum; retire, take a year off and see where things stand, or be released. Technically, Love chose to be cut, but it's hard to blame him since he was far from guaranteed any future with the team after his "retirement."

If this was a football decision purely based on performance and production, I'd get it, but it wasn't.  Love started 11 games in 2012 and was a productive player during his time in New England. There are no guarantees in sports, but he earned a roster spot.

Of course, there are valid concerns about whether a diabetic should be tipping the scales at 300 pounds or more, but I'm not naïve enough to think the Patriots cut Love for his own good. They're just not that sentimental.

It's fair to wonder if somebody with Love's condition could not only maintain his playing weight, but also remain effective while playing one of the most physically demanding positions in all of sports. If the Patriots don't think he can, they have every right to cut their losses and move one.

Kopelman says Love will be 100% in a few short weeks. I hope that's true, but we don't know for sure.  We don't know if he'll be able to balance his health against the demands of his position. We don't know if he'll ever be as effective as he was before his diagnosis.

The only thing we do know for certain is that Love would still be a Patriot if he didn't have diabetes.  Frankly, I don't know if that's right.

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