Tuesday, September 05, 2006

 
Carrick Eager for Euro Chance

Reds midfielder Michael Carrick says the chance to play in the Champions League was a major deciding factor in his move to Old Trafford this summer.
United shelled out an initial £14million for the former Tottenham midfielder. And although United's interest alone was appealing enough, his decision to leave White Hart Lane was made more enticing by the chance to play in Europe’s top competition.
"I've come here to win things but everyone expects us to do that," he told Inside United, the official magazine. “The squad believes we're capable of it. Whatever competition United are in, we're always going to be contenders. Champions League, Premiership, FA Cup, and Carling Cup - we're always looking to win them. That's the big attraction.
"Playing in the Champions League was a massive factor in coming here,” Carrick added. “To be able to take part in some of the huge games I've watched on the tally in the past is very exciting.
"It's another test, going up against the best in the world. It really is the highest level. Some say Champions League games are on a par, if not better, than the World Cup. I can't wait to be part of it.”
Carrick should make his home debut against his former club Spurs at Old Trafford on Saturday, and he is eagerly anticipating being a part of the team every week and challenging for honors.
"This is one of the biggest clubs in the world and to play in that stadium every week is going to be a great experience,” he said. “The expectation and the belief within the squad are so high. I'm looking forward to being part of it, improving my game and becoming a better player. It's exciting times."

Jude

Friday, September 01, 2006

 
A lot of things happen but its hard to believe this happened
Hammers complete Tevez, Mascherano deal
West Ham have completed the sensational double signing of Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano from Corinthians on permanent contracts.

Argentina team-mates Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano
The Argentinian duo, who both starred for their country at the World Cup this summer, move to Upton Park for undisclosed fees.
A statement on the West Ham website read: 'The transfers represent a massive coup for the Hammers, who have beaten off some of Europe's biggest clubs to secure the services of the duo.'
West Ham have refused to divulge details of the double deal but Tevez and Mascherano commanded £15million transfer fees when they signed for Corinthians from Argentinian clubs Boca Juniors and River Plate.
There has also been speculation that West Ham have managed to steal a march on bigger rivals with a view to selling them on next season.
But Hammers media spokesman Phil Hall insisted: 'There is no way West Ham would act as a feeder club for others.
'These are exciting signings for us but, of course, if we were offered major fees for the players at a later date we would have to consider it - as we would with other players.'
Corinthians president Alberto Dualib has admitted that talks with MSI are likely to clarify the situation of the two stars on Wednesday, with the Argentinian media suggesting that the duo are expected to make their way to England.
The duo's agent Adrian Ruocco was believed to be personally involved in negotiations with West Ham to complete the deal before tonight's transfer deadline.
Whilst Tevez had been expected to leave Corinthians after staying away from the club for the past week, Mascherano had also also gone AWOL with arguments continuing over his availability for the Brazil friendly.
Corinthians were not keen on the midfielder travelling for the tie, even though he is suspended domestically, and relations between the parties reached a new low after coach Leao confirmed Mascherano had skipped training.
Leao said: 'I began the practice at 8.30 am and there was no sign of Mascherano.
'I have not received any official message from him and the case has been passed to the directors.'
Both players are available for West Ham's next Barclays Premiership match - at home to Villa on September 9 - but manager Alan Pardew is likely to hold them back for the UEFA Cup clash with Palermo at Upton Park few days later
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Jude


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