SOCCER ROUND-UP:CARLOS TEVEZ could yet remain at Manchester City beyond the end of the season despite his problems at the club, writes Jamie Jackson.
Tevez has impressed with his attitude and desire to regain match fitness since returning to the club in mid-February, with some prominent players hopeful that he might have been included for the Premier League match at Swansea City on Sunday, which City lost 1-0.
A move away from the Etihad Stadium in the summer is still the likely outcome but there is no definitive position, and, given the warm reception from every player since his return, and Mancini’s determination to put his and Tevez’s issues behind him, all options remain open.
Tevez has apologised to City and knuckled down ahead of a potential return to the first team.
Micah Richards characterised the warmth towards the forward when he said: “It’s up to the manager but I’d love to see him back. I’ve always been a big fan of Tevez.”
Guardian Service
Rosicky signs a new contract
ATTACKING MIDFIELDER Tomas Rosicky has signed a new contract with Arsenal after a purple patch of form which has seen him score twice in three games. The Czech Republic captain has agreed a two-year deal. Manager Arsene Wenger said: “I’ve always been a big admirer of Tomas’s abilities and am delighted he’s chosen to commit his future to the club.
Rosicky, 31, said: “It’s felt like home since I arrived six years ago.”
Messi praises Guardiola’s role
LIONEL MESSI believes coach Pep Guardiola is the main factor behind Barcelona’s recent success.
Barcelona have won 13 out of 16 possible trophies since Guardiola took over at the start the 2008-’09 season.
Messi, a three-time world player of the year, has scored seven goals in the past week alone but insists: “Guardiola is fundamental to Barcelona’s project.”
Asked if Messi was more important to the club, the player added: “Guardiola is more important to Barca.”
The 24-year-old Argentinian superstar continued: “His arrival changed everything. Everything that has been achieved was achieved with him.”
Guardiola’s current deal at Camp Nou expires at the end of this season and he has yet to sign a new contract, and Messi believes the club will struggle to replace him should he leave.
“Obviously the club and players will continue on but it would be very different without him,” he said.
Hazard ‘excited’ by United’s interest
EDEN HAZARD has claimed he was “excited” by the presence of Alex Ferguson on Saturday for Lille’s 2-1 defeat at Lyon. The 21-year-old is already reportedly a target for Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea.
Ferguson made the trip to France 24 hours before Manchester United beat West Bromwich Albion. The Belgian playmaker said: “Of course [United interest me], this is a club that excites everyone, but for now my focus is on Lille. But yes, it is a pleasure to be watched by one of the best coaches in the world, if not the best.”
United require a creative midfielder who can score goals, with Hazard, who has scored 11 in 24 league starts this season, probably representing a cheaper option with regard to fee and salary than Internazionale’s Wesley Sneijder, who came close to joining last summer and who has stated he would still like to do so.
Guardian Service
Murray to make offer for Rangers
FORMER RANGERS director Paul Murray has declared his buyout plans in “good shape” following fresh talks with the club’s administrators.
Murray is pushing ahead with plans to submit a takeover proposal by Friday’s deadline along with his allies, who include Ticketus and other individuals such as motoring tycoon Douglas Park.
Murray told the Evening Times: "We had a very good meeting with the administrators.
“It was an open meeting with very constructive dialogue and myself and the executives from Ticketus asked a lot of questions, and answered a lot of questions. We are in good shape for Friday. We will be making an offer to buy Rangers.”
Administrators Duff and Phelps have revealed interest from America and the Far East while Sale Sharks owner Brian Kennedy has previously expressed an interest.
