Chelsea eye Blues chief

Chelsea are lining up a swoop for Birmingham's head of recruitment Paul Montgomery, skysports.com understands.
Montgomery has emerged as one of the most highly-rated recruiters in English football and he was a key appointment by manager Alex McLeish in 2008.
He has good contacts in England and abroad, which has been demonstrated in recent months with the likes of Alex Hleb and Nikola Zigic being lured to St Andrews.
Montgomery's hold on the domestic market is also very good, with lower league signings such as Scott Dann and Roger Johnson now shinning with Birmingham.
Chelsea are looking for a replacement for Frank Arnesen, who has confirmed he will be leaving at the end of the season.
Former Barcelona technical secretary Txiki Beguiristain is thought to be one name on their list, but now Montgomery has also emerged as a candidate.
And even if Chelsea opted for Beguiristain or another foreign chief to replace Arnesen, Montgomery could still be wanted by Stamford Bridge bosses to enhance their scouting resources.
A former European scout with West Ham and Rangers, Montgomery is also highly respected on the continent and was previously offered a position with Barcelona.
Barclays Prem Winner 10/11 Win Outright: Chelsea 6/4
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Drogba - Injuries no excuse

Didier Drogba insists Chelsea can not use the absence of key players as a reason for the 'worst run of form' he has experienced at the club.
Chelsea lost top spot in the Premier League over the weekend and have won just once in their last five top-flight matches.
The reigning champions have been missing Frank Lampard, John Terry and Michael Essien in recent fixtures, but Drogba is adamant that is no excuse for the Blues' form.
Drogba feels it is the most disappointing spell of form since he moved to Stamford Bridge in 2004 and believes the upcoming month, when Chelsea face Manchester United and Arsenal, could be decisive.
"It is maybe the worst run of form I've known since I came to the club," said Drogba. "It is not good.
"It is very frustrating - very frustrating. I know that during the season you can have moments like this and try your best to change it."
He added: "We are playing those teams around us in the next few weeks so this is a challenge that we have to do everything to win.
"We are glad to get November out of the way - now let's see what December brings.
"We can't use the players who are out as an excuse, even if they are key players.
"When you sign for Chelsea, you know you have to give your best. You know you've signed for the best team so you have to improve your game, especially when players like Terry, Lampard and Essien are not there.
"This is the moment when you have to show you are able to take responsibility because you know it won't be easy.
"It's only going to happen from us. We can't expect people to come and say 'OK, we'll change it for you'.
"We have to change it as players, with the manager, all of us together. We have to stay together as a team.
"You might say this is the basic formula from players but we have to stay together and do everything to change this."
Champions League Winner 10/11 Win Outright: Chelsea 4/1
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More to come from Barrera

Pablo Barrera is finding his feet at West Ham and insists there is still plenty more to come from him.
The Mexican winger joined the Hammers from Pumas over the summer in a £4million deal, with a decent showing at the 2010 World Cup earning him a switch to England.
He has appeared in 14 Premier League fixtures so far this term, but has only offered fleeting glimpses of the quality he possesses.
The 23-year-old admits that it has taken him a while to get to grips with life at Upton Park, but has assured West Ham supporters that he is close to recapturing his best form.
"As every week goes by, I am settling in more to the team and life in London," Barrera said.
"English football is a lot more physical than other leagues with plenty of strong challenges, and I have noticed a few more long balls up to the target-man with the ball in the air a bit more, but it is the kind of game I like and I love being a part of it.
"There is a good atmosphere at the club and I like my team-mates a lot."
Barrera is not the only Hammers star yet to hit top gear this term, with a faltering start to the season leaving the club languishing at the foot of the top flight table.
There were, however, signs in Saturday's 3-1 win over fellow strugglers Wigan that the corner has been turned and there is a belief within the camp that a route to safety can be negotiated.
"During the week, we had discussed what we had to do to be better to turn the corner," said Barrera.
"Mainly we have talked about concentrating more during the 90 minutes because those lapses in concentration had cost us some wins and we ended up drawing them instead.
"In general the team has been playing well, but we just needed that focus until the last second of the game."
Barclays Prem To Stay Up 10/11 Win Outright: West Ham 10/11
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Moratti rejects Fab talk

Inter Milan president Massimo Moratti has rejected rumours linking him with a move for Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas.
Reports in Italy and England have claimed the European champions are planning a big-money move for Gunners schemer Fabregas.
Fabregas' future at Arsenal has been the subject of speculation for some time with the Spanish international strongly linked with a move to Barcelona in the summer.
Arsenal managed to keep hold of Fabregas, but speculation over his long-term future in North London refuses to go away.
However, Moratti insists he does not expect Fabregas to make the move to the San Siro.
"Cesc Fabregas to Inter? I believe he won't arrive," Moratti told Ansa.
Moratti also played down talk linking Inter with a move for unsettled Sampdoria striker Antonio Cassano.
Cassano seems set to leave Sampdoria after a bust-up with club president Riccardo Garrone and he has been linked with the likes of Manchester City, Liverpool, Juventus and Roma.
Moratti is a big admirer of Italian international Cassano, but he claims talk of a switch to Inter is just "fantasy".
He added: "Cassano is undoubtedly a great player, I read in the newspapers that we have made progress, but I don't think so.
"These are just rumours that don't match the truth. His arrival is fantasy football."
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Buffon rubbishes exit rumours

Gianluigi Buffon has played down renewed speculation linking him with a move to Manchester United.
The Juventus goalkeeper continues to see his future called into question despite regular shows of commitment to his current employers.
The World Cup winner maintains that he has not altered his stance over recent weeks and has every intention of remaining in Turin.
His denials have done little to curb rumours suggesting he is a target of United, among others, with an imminent switch regularly touted.
For now, though, Buffon insists such speculation is nothing more than transfer gossip, with his attention focused solely on Juve's Serie A title tilt.
"I have no intention of leaving Juventus," the 32-year-old told Gazzetta dello Sport.
"I feel good here and I have no contract problems. My wish is to respect my contract and see it through until 2013. Then we will see if there is the option to renew.
"Manchester United? They are a great team I have faced a few times and have a few bitter memories of, nothing else."
Buffon is currently sidelined with a long-running back problem which flared up again at the 2010 World Cup.
He is, however, closing on a return to full fitness and hopes to be back in the first-team fold in the New Year.
"Before Christmas I hope to be back training with the group," he said.
"Then I will need about another month before playing again. Let's say about the end of January."
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Ameobi calls for balance

Shola Ameobi is urging Newcastle United to maintain a consistent level of performance following their encouraging results against the top teams.
Newcastle have beaten the likes of Arsenal, Aston Villa and Everton this season, and held champions Chelsea to a 1-1 draw on Sunday.
However, the Magpies have also lost at home to Blackpool, Stoke City and Blackburn Rovers to leave Chris Hughton's side in ninth position in the Premier League.
Ameobi admits Newcastle have been adopting different approaches depending on the opposition and the striker is keen to find the right balance.
"It's annoying that our best performances are against the best teams - and then we drop points against some of the others," said Ameobi.
"When we've played the bigger teams this season, we've kept a good shape and limited them to few chances.
"We're a lot more solid and we don't let them play.
"When we play a team we feel we should be beating, we've been too gung-ho and left ourselves open at the back.
"It's about getting the balance right. We're not quite there yet."
West Brom 5/4, Draw 9/4, Newcastle 9/4
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Jagielka offers no excuses

Phil Jagielka admits Everton have only themselves to blame for their ongoing troubles this season.
The Toffees have picked up just three wins in 15 Premier League outings this term and find themselves languishing towards the foot of the table.
Just two points separate them from the drop zone at present, with a five-match winless run dragging them into the relegation dogfight.
There is, of course, still plenty of time to turn things around, and the club have made a habit of recovering well over the second half of the season.
However, it is vital that results improve dramatically in the near future if they are to start climbing the standings, with the busy festive period capable of making or breaking a campaign.
Jagielka accepts that the time for excuses is over, with the England international of the opinion that Everton are a much better side than recent performances suggest.
"We are in a difficult position now and yes, that tends to bring out the best in this side, but the truth is we're getting sick and tired of us having to do that," he said.
"We're a good team and we should be doing better than this, no matter what excuses we may have.
"We know that we have played badly, but really we have got to lift ourselves quickly because we have a game against Chelsea coming up (on Saturday)."
Jagielka added: "We're devastated but we'll bounce back. We have to show character in adversity now."
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Wenger - Keep the faith

Arsenal are now 9/2 to win the Premier League after their 4-2 win at Aston Villa. Bet now.
Arsene Wenger has urged Arsenal supporters to "keep the faith" that his long-nurtured side will deliver success.
The Gunners avoided their third defeat on the trot when they recorded a morale-boosting 4-2 win over Aston Villa on Saturday.
Last weekend's defeat to bitter rivals Tottenham, followed by the UEFA Champions League defeat in Braga sparked talk of a crisis at Arsenal, but Wenger insists they are well placed to end their hunt for silverware.
"For over two months we have played every three days, and part of that is sometimes you have ups and downs. It is how you respond to that," noted Wenger.
"The problem at the moment is that when these kind of things happen, everybody is emphasising the negative sides. I am still quite optimistic, even if disappointed by the results.
"I have no major reason to doubt the team and the players, so even if my disappointment was huge, maybe that is why I am less down than many people because I see all the positive signs which are in my team.
"I am confident on the longer-term, like it is a marathon, that will all come out - keep with us, and keep faith with the team. I know their attitude is spot on, I know they have the quality - and we will not always lose games where the opponent only has one shot on goal."
Barclays Prem Winner 10/11 Win Outright: Arsenal 9/2
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Neville calms Becks talk

Phil Neville is refusing to get carried away by the hype surrounding David Beckham's link with Everton.
Toffees boss David Moyes recently admitted that he would welcome the opportunity to bring the former England captain back to England on loan, with his commitments with MLS outfit Los Angeles Galaxy over for another season.
Beckham has taken in loan spells in Europe in each of the last two years, with Italian giants AC Milan happy to make use of his considerable experience.
An eagerly-anticipated switch to England, where he has not played on a full-time basis since leaving Manchester United in 2003, has been widely touted, with Everton mentioned as one of the sides in the running.
Club captain Neville would welcome his former United team-mate to Goodison Park with open arms but is wary of allowing such talk to spiral out of control, with Beckham yet to make any decision on his short-term future.
"Obviously you would want a player of that ilk to come to your club, but he's an LA Galaxy player and until we hear otherwise we will respect that," he told Sky Sports News.
Beckham's Galaxy colleague Landon Donovan did take in a spell with the Toffees last season, greatly impressing during his time on Merseyside.
It has been suggested he could return for a second stint, having left the door open for Moyes to make a move, but Neville insists there is no pressure on Everton to land loan stars as they already have a squad capable of competing with the Premier League elite.
"I have got total belief in the players that we have got. We have got Victor Anichebe, who came back at the weekend, who could be that type of player for us," he said on the Donovan link.
"You don't invest heavily into a squad like we have and keep a settled squad, with our biggest signing of the summer being Mikel Arteta signing again, without having belief.
"Everyone is tied up on long-term contracts so the squad and foundations are there, it's just we need to start performing as a team.
"As players we all take responsibility, there's enough quality in the dressing room, and we are not looking outside the club or outside the dressing room for excuses. The players haven't performed to the levels that we as players and the manager expects. It's time for us to step up."
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McLeish warning for Hleb

Alex McLeish feels Alexander Hleb has been 'embarrassed' at times during a difficult season at Birmingham.
The Belarusian playmaker arrived at St Andrews on a season-long loan over the summer boasting a sizeable reputation shaped at Arsenal, Stuttgart and Barcelona.
Much was expected of him, with his return to England seen as a quite a coup for the Blues.
He has struggled to produce his best, though, with a lack of match sharpness and Birmingham's tactical approach holding him back.
McLeish admits that Hleb has been given a rude awakening in the Midlands, with his omission from the starting line-up for the Blues' shock win over Chelsea proving that he is not untouchable.
He responded with arguably his best showing for the club in Saturday's 1-1 draw with Fulham and has been informed that he must maintain those standards if he is to tie down a starting role.
McLeish said: "I've repeatedly told him that he is not fit enough to start games.
"He was disappointed not to start against Chelsea. He thought it was a slight and was a bit embarrassed by that.
"A top player thinks he can just walk into the team - but it doesn't work like that."
McLeish has also called on £6million summer signing Nikola Zigic to add more aggression to his game.
The towering striker has looked more comfortable over recent weeks, having started to settle in England, but his manager feels there is still plenty more to come if he works on the right areas.
The former Scotland boss said: "For such a big guy, the aggression is not in his game.
"He is a passionate guy but we've tried to put aggression in his game and he is getting better.
"It is about telling him to attack the ball because in Europe he probably only heads the ball three or four times in a game, and it's the same with Serbia.
"He is used to the ball being played on the deck but we want him to become more aggressive."
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Hart calls for Tevez support

Manchester City keeper Joe Hart believes his team-mates need to ease the burden on captain Carlos Tevez and contribute more.
The Argentina international has been the club's stand-out performer this season, although when he is kept quiet the team often struggle.
Tevez failed to score at the weekend and Roberto Mancini's charges were held to a late 1-1 draw by Stoke City at the Britannia Stadium.
City have been labelled a 'one-man show' but Hart insists everyone has been trying their best to boost results and ease the pressure on Tevez.
"We've been called a one-man show and it's hard not to be when that one man is absolutely brilliant and stands head and shoulders above most players on the planet," Hart explained.
"We're trying to help Carlos. He realises it's not all on his shoulders. We have to create passes for him to score, and he creates passes for the other boys. It's starting to come together.
"We have some great character in the side in people like David Silva. People will have looked at him on the pitch on Saturday and thought he had nothing to do with the game, but he ran the show.
"That showed big character from him and lots of balls. And of course, we've got Carlos, physically not that big, but so big for us when it comes to football."
Hart wants City to forget about their weekend disappointment by beating Red Bull Salzburg on Wednesday in a bid to advance in the Europa League.
Victory in Austria, along with Juventus dropping points against Lech Poznan, would see City qualify for the last 32, although Hart has no plans to take things easy.
"We have to look forward to Wednesday now and try to take the positives from our last couple of performances," he said.
"We have two group games to go and want to win them both. Even if we qualify this week, we will go into the Juve game wanting to win it.
"People will see it that we can have a breather if we qualify this week, but we don't see it that way. We want to keep on rolling. We're fit, strong boys and the more games the merrier for us.
"Coming to the City of Manchester Stadium to play City is a big event for Salzburg and they will give everything they've got. We had a good win out there and we have to look to do that again."
Man. City v Bolton To Score a Brace: Tevez, C. 4/1
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Davies plans Bolton send-off

Bolton Wanderers captain Kevin Davies is hoping he can finish his playing career at the Reebok Stadium.
Davies has been an integral member of the Bolton team since joining from Southampton in 2003 and he recently passed the 300 appearance mark for the club.
His strike partnership with Johan Elmander this season has been a key factor in the Trotters sitting sixth in the table and he was also rewarded with his first England cap in October.
The 33-year-old, who is under contract until 2012, has no complaints with life in Bolton and is eager to see out his playing days with the club.
"Bolton has become home to me now, we're very settled in the area and have some great friends here," Davies told the Bolton News.
"The local people have been amazing for us. I don't think I can recall one instance where we've had any bother.
"The football is as good as it's ever been, and living in the town I get a lot of feedback, and long may that continue.
"In terms of football, I'd like to finish my career at Bolton and then hopefully stay in the game.
"I'm not sure what level it would be at, but right now I'm trying to enjoy this season and next season when my contract takes me to, and then go from there.
"We love the area, and though you can never tell in life, hopefully this will be where we remain."
Barclays Prem Top 4 Finish 10/11 Top 4 Finish: Bolton 20/1
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Bassong hails credentials

Sebastien Bassong has echoed Harry Redknapp's sentiments and claimed Tottenham Hotspur can win the Premier League title.
The Spurs boss stated his team could go all the way this season after their last-gasp success over Liverpool on Sunday.
The victory means Tottenham are just six points behind league leaders Manchester United after 15 matches played.
Bassong emerged off the bench in the 2-1 victory over Liverpool after Younes Kaboul limped out of the game and the ex-Newcastle man thinks Spurs' squad has the strength in depth to cope with what lies ahead.
The Frenchman believes their never-say-die attitude means they have what it takes to be top come May, although he knows they will need to maintain their performances on a consistent basis.
"I believe we can win it - but I don't know if the players do," he told The Sun.
"We don't have to talk about our ability, we know what we can achieve.
"We have a wonderful squad with great players and if we carry on like this and keep on working hard, you never know what you can achieve.
"Can we win the title? Of course we can. Scoring the winner against Liverpool in the last minute is a good thing - it is what champions do.
"We need to keep doing it for the rest of the season."
Barclays Prem Winner 10/11 Win Outright: Tottenham 20/1
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Skrtel wants ruthless streak

Liverpool defender Martin Skrtel has called on his team-mates to be more ruthless if they are climb higher up the league.
The Reds surrendered a 1-0 lead to go down 2-1 to Tottenham last Sunday thanks to Aaron Lennon's stoppage-time winner.
Roy Hodgson's men wasted a number of clear goalscoring chances to put the game beyond Spurs and Skrtel, who scored Liverpool's goal, admits the manner of the defeat at White Hart Lane was hard to take.
"Losing that game was very difficult to take," Skrtel told the Liverpool Echo.
"In the first half we did really well and controlled the game. We scored one and created a few more chances.
"In the second half we let them get back in it and to concede again right at the end was so disappointing.
"It came down to us missing our chances. If you don't score goals you don't win games. We have to improve."
Skrtel admitted his first goal in a year mattered little to him as Liverpool ended up losing the game.
"It was nice to score a goal after so long without one but for me the most important thing is winning and we didn't do that," added Skrtel, whose own goal drew Spurs level.
"I might have scored but I can't be happy after that because we didn't get the result."
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Warnock - We need a win

Stephen Warnock admits Aston Villa need to get back to winning ways as soon as possible.
Warnock revealed that harsh words were exchanged in the dressing following their 4-2 loss to Arsenal at the weekend.
Villa have now dropped to 15th in the league under Gerard Houllier and Warnock insists the team are anxious to recapture their form.
"There were harsh words from the lads," said Warnock. "As we came in at half-time we knew it wasn't good enough.
"People were shouting at each other and trying to say as much as they could to try and get back into the game.
"It is a tough time because we have lost a couple on the spin but we have to be strong mentally now."
Villa face local rivals Birmingham City in the Carling Cup quarter-finals on Wednesday and Warnock is hoping they can use that game to rekindle their form.
"When you have been beaten you want to play any game as quickly as possible and try and get back on the field," he continued.
"The fact it is a derby it is a massive game. Getting one over your local rivals is a nice feeling and we will be hoping to do that.
"Getting to the final last year was a fantastic achievement but it was also one of the most disappointing days of the season.
"We came away from it with nothing but heartbreak so it means nothing to you. You can't turn around and say: 'I played in a cup final'.
"Someone will then ask: 'how did you get on?' and you can't turn around and say: 'we got beat'.
"It means nothing as it is winning that matters. So the lads want to get back there and put it right.
"We want to win and we want to celebrate after it but first things first we have to get through this round."
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Amos ready for United fight

Ben Amos hopes he will be given every opportunity to stake a claim for the Manchester United No.1 jersey.
With veteran goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar set to step aside at the end of the season, the Red Devils will have a vacancy between the sticks.
Competition for the role will be fierce, with Danish shot-stopper Anders Lindegaard set to join the ranks in December.
He will join Amos and Tomasz Kuszczak in the keeping department, with all three men eyeing a leading role from next season.
Academy graduate Amos is considered to be the outsider in the race for a starting berth, with the 20-year-old having made just two senior appearances to date.
The youngster is determined to play on a more regular basis, though, and admits he is ready to battle for a place in Sir Alex Ferguson's plans.
"Games in the first team don't come round too often when you are the No.3 keeper," said the Macclesfield-born youngster. "There is only one position and we train a lot.
"Every year I set a target because you have got to keep yourself motivated.
"You also have to be patient because a goalkeeper's career is different.
"Edwin is still playing now. You have to look at him as an example when the temptation is to look at players your own age, who are involved a lot more."
Amos is expected to be given a run-out in Tuesday's Carling Cup quarter-final with West Ham, giving him vital minutes in the first team.
He insists he is ready for every opportunity that comes his way, as he has taken plenty from working alongside Dutch ace Van der Sar every day.
"It is a little bit like training with your dad," laughed Amos.
"I don't think he will appreciate that but I am chewing at his ear all the time, trying to get bits of advice.
"He is very open and he says what he thinks, which is just what you need."
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Van Damme to join Standard

Wolves have confirmed a deal has been agreed for defender Jelle van Damme to return to Belgium to join Standard Liege.
Van Damme only moved to Molineux in the summer after agreeing a three-year contract to link up with Wolves from Anderlecht.
However, the 27-year-old revealed that he was struggling to settle back into English football just a couple of months into his Wolves career.
The former Southampton stopper has now secured a deal to join Standard and he is expected to finalise his departure from Wolves later this week.
"We can confirm that we have agreed a deal for the transfer of Jelle van Damme to Standard Liege subject to the paperwork being completed over the next 48 hours," Wolves CEO Jez Moxey told the club's official website.
"Once the deal goes through Jelle will leave us with immediate effect, but will not be able to play for Standard Liege until the transfer window re-opens on January 1 and international clearance is granted.
"The agreement has been struck in exactly the same way as when we brought Jelle to the club from Anderlecht in June, meaning we receive the entire fee in the same way as we paid it."
Van Damme made six Premier League appearances for Mick McCarthy's side and scored in the 2-1 defeat at Fulham in September.
Barclays Prem Relegation 10/11 Relegation: Wolves 8/11
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Hughton - We deserved point

Newcastle boss Chris Hughton insisted his team got a point they deserved from their clash with Chelsea.
The match ended 1-1 at St James' Park, with Newcastle taking the lead when Andy Carroll latched onto a defensive mix-up to score.
Salomon Kalou's deflected effort levelled just before half-time and the champions could not find a way through in the second half.
Hughton admits his side were on the back foot at times, but they deserved the draw.
"You are fearful every time they attack because of what they have got, they had got the ascendancy, and we conceded a poor goal," Hughton explained to Sky Sports.
"But credit to every one of our players, we dug in and we got to a stage where if you can get comfortable against a side like that, then we ended up being a touch comfortable."
He admitted that, late on, his side were settling for a point, adding: "You get to that stage of the game where the joy of getting something from the game is a little bit more than the possibility of losing the game.
"And as I said they have got so much quality, it is a little bit of every time they attack there is that fear.
"But we dug in and I don't think anyone seeing that game today can deny we deserved something from it."
Hughton was also delighted with Carroll, who grabbed another goal, saying: "Andy doesn't play with fear. He's not fearful of any opposition or any individual - that's how he is at the moment.
"When you are in a confident mood and you are scoring goals, that's how it
should be.
"You should look forward to every game. You should think every game is an
opportunity to play well and score."
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Hodgson rues Carra blow

Liverpool manager Roy Hodgson was left ruing Jamie Carragher's dislocated shoulder following the 2-1 defeat at Tottenham.
The Reds stalwart came off late on at White Hart Lane with the injury, and he now faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
It is a major blow for Liverpool as they are currently also without captain Steven Gerrard through injury, and the disappointment was compounded by the result in North London.
On the injury, Hodgson told Sky Sports: "It's very bad. He's dislocated his shoulder.
"It's an unfortunate thing to happen on his 450th appearance in the Premier League.
"He's a very important player for us. We'll now be without him and Steven Gerrard and they are the lifeblood of our club."
Liverpool had taken the lead at the Lane as Martin Skrtel poked home just before half-time, but the Slovakian defender then put through his own net after the break to level things up.
The game looked to be heading for a stalemate until Aaron Lennon popped up with an injury-time winner to leave Hodgson empty handed.
He added: "To lose in injury time in the way we did is very hard to take.
"I'm very disappointed for the players, very disappointed that we didn't come away from here with at least one point which would have been something we could have been proud of.
"Unfortunately it's a defeat and defeats hit you very hard.
"We missed some very good chances. We played some good football to get us into that position.
"We haven't played that badly this year but we haven't got the points and that's the problem.
"Going away with nothing sets us back once again and I suppose one can take consolation from the performance but on the other hand the performance needs to get you results and this performance didn't get us a result."
Jermain Defoe missed a penalty for the home side in the second half following a handball by David Ngog, and Hodgson says the Frenchman can have no complaints, despite initially thinking referee Martin Atkinson made the wrong decision.
"There were quite a few instances in the game where there were controversial incidents in the penalty area," he remarked.
"It's very difficult for the referee. I misread the penalty situation. Having seen it again it clearly is a penalty - David Ngog has no right to have his hands where he had them."
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Lennon snatches late win

Man of the match: Luka Modric. His pace and vision set up the equaliser. Was a constant thorn in Liverpool's side
Moment of the match: Maxi Rodriguez was sent clear by Torres but inexplicably failed to shoot. That chance, if taken, would have put Liverpool 2-0 up.
Attempt of the match: Jermain Defoe missing the target from the penalty spot
Save of the match: Heurelho Gomes making a full-stretch save to deny Maxi Rodriguez.
Goal of the game: Martin Skrtel's own goal, simply for the burst made by Luka Modric into the box.
Talking point: Can Spurs cope with this injury crisis after they lost both Kaboul and Van der Vaart to injury? Are they serious title contenders?
Tottenham stole all three points in dramatic fashion as Aaron Lennon scored an injury-time winner to beat Liverpool 2-1 at White Hart Lane.
The Reds broke the deadlock three minutes before half-time as defender Martin Skrtel reacted first to poke past Heurelho Gomes following a free-kick into the box.
Substitute Jermain Defoe squandered an excellent chance to equalise when he dragged a penalty wide on the hour mark following an inexplicable handball from David Ngog.
However, Harry Redknapp's side did not have to wait long for the leveller as Skrtel turned from hero to villain as he diverted the ball into his own net after good work from Luka Modric.
And the comeback was complete in injury time as Lennon latched on to a sweeping ball from the left to run in and slot past the despairing Pepe Reina.
There were two changes for Spurs in the starting XI as Rafael van der Vaart returned and Wilson Palacios replaced the injured Jermaine Jenas in midfield. Liverpool's only change saw Lucas return from suspension in place of Christian Poulsen.
In an even start to the game both sides came close to breaking the deadlock in an open encounter. William Gallas, so strong against Arsenal last weekend, almost got in a muddle with Gomes in the third minute but his pass-back from close range was just cleared by the Brazilian keeper.
Lennon looked bright and went on a marauding run forward only to get the ball stuck under his feet with Van der Vaart waiting in space. Modric then volleyed straight at Reina after more good work from Lennon, and at the other end Maxi Rodriguez fired narrowly wide from inside the area.
Tottenham suffered a blow in the 10th minute as playmaker Van der Vaart was forced off with an injury after trying a backheel - the Dutch star, who has been a revelation this season, was replaced by Defoe and the home side went with two up front.
Gareth Bale whipped in a corner but Peter Crouch could not get enough contact on his poke towards goal, while the energetic Maxi then forced a smart stop from Gomes following a stinging shot that was flying towards the bottom corner.
The game continued to ebb and flow from end-to-end but that decisive clear-cut chance proved evasive, despite good play in the final third by both teams.
Alan Hutton charged forward with great pace in the 26th minute but his swan dive inside the area was an embarrassing attempt to con referee Martin Atkinson into giving a penalty - the Scot's blatant acrobatics were not enough to dupe the official.
Two yellow cards followed as Raul Meireles and Paul Konchesky both slid in on Gareth Bale, and Reds captain Jamie Carragher then produced a remarkable goal-saving block. So often has the Liverpool stalwart been their saviour in the past, and he stretched out a leg to deny Defoe a certain goal after Reina had only parried a Modric pull-back.
Younes Kaboul was the second casualty for Spurs when he limped off in the 36th minute as Sebastien Bassong entered the fray.
The deadlock was then broken as Skrtel reacted quickest to poke home in the 42nd minute. Meireles drifted in a free-kick and the Slovakian defender headed into the back of team-mate David Ngog, only for the ball to break loose into his path.
It should have been two in first-half stoppage time when Torres produced a wonderful piece of skill to flick through Maxi, but the Argentinian attacker tried to go round Gomes instead of pulling the trigger and the ball ran away from him.
Torres then wasted a chance before the whistle as Bassong got back brilliantly to put in a last-ditch tackle on the Spaniard, and immediately after the restart it was a case of d?j?-vu - Torres was played through one-on-one but he delayed his shot, allowing the defender to get back.
Tottenham began to turn the screw in the second-half as they probed for an equaliser and Crouch nodded a corner back across goal but neither Defoe nor Gallas could turn it home. And Liverpool needed another superb clearance in the 52nd minute when Meireles nodded off the line to keep out Bale's half-volley.
Spurs had a golden opportunity to level things up when they were awarded a penalty just before the hour mark. Bale's free-kick hit Ngog's raised arm in the wall and despite protests from the away side, referee Atkinson pointed to the spot.
Skrtel was booked for dissent but he need not have worried, as Defoe sent the penalty wide of the target with a poor effort, not even testing Reina.
However, Harry Redknapp's men did not have to wait long for the equaliser, as Skrtel diverted the ball into his own net in the 65th minute after Modric had drifted through the Liverpool defence to pull-back from the by-line.
There were appeals for a penalty when Benoit Assou-Ekotto slid in on Dirk Kuyt, and Meireles went close with a long-range effort, before Jamie Carragher went off with a dislocated shoulder.
But it was late drama as Lennon latched on to a Crouch knock-down in stoppage time and he showed great composure to slot past Reina and earn his side the victory.
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Santa Cruz could leave Rovers

Julio Santa Cruz, the younger brother of Manchester City striker Roque, could be on his way out of Blackburn in the summer.
The 20-year-old striker joined Rovers in 2008 after impressing during a trial spell.
He penned a three-year deal upon his arrival but has been unable to force his way out of the reserve set-up and into the first-team fold.
A lack of opportunities suggests Sam Allardyce does not consider him to be an integral part of his long-term plans.
That means an exit at the end of the season could be on the cards, with Blackburn offering no indication that they wish to discuss an extension.
Santa Cruz's agent, his father Aproniano, admits the youngster could return to his Paraguayan roots if the right offer comes along, but admits his priority is to secure another contract in Europe.
"The priority is for Julio to stay in Europe," he told ABC Digiutal.
"Julio has an amateur contract, he is always in the reserves at Blackburn and will see his contract expire in June.
"We will see if he gets a professional contract. We will know about that in January.
"We are going to see if Blackburn offer him professional terms, as he has been there now since he was 17.
"The idea is for him to stay in Europe but if there is an opportunity with an important Paraguayan team, we will think about it.
"It would have to be a team playing in a big international competition, though, because that is what I am looking for him to experience."
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Foley backing for McCarthy

Kevin Foley believes it is 'not fair' that Wolves manager Mick McCarthy's position has been placed under scrutiny in recent weeks.
Wolves ended a run of four successive defeats at the weekend by coming from behind to beat Sunderland 3-2 at Molineux.
The result was not enough to lift Wolves out of the bottom three, but helped to provide the team with a boost after recent performances were not rewarded with points.
Foley, who opened the scoring against Sunderland, dedicated the win to McCarthy and praised the way in which the manager has tried to alter Wolves' style of play this season.
"It's not fair his job has been under scrutiny," said Foley. "None of the lads can question the boss, it's not just him, it's us. We must take responsibility.
"If you look at the points, we've not got that many less than last year, but we've being playing better football, a better brand of football this season.
"The fans appreciate it and it's about trying to do things the right way, the footballing way.
"I'm just glad we won for the manager and the players. He's done so well for us, you know what you get with him and yes, that win was as much for him as much as anyone else.
"When there's 10 minutes to go and you're 2-1 down you think 'here we go again', but credit to everyone we got it going."
Barclays Prem To Stay Up 10/11 Win Outright: Wolves 10/11
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Martinez - Boselli will shine

Wigan manager Roberto Martinez believes striker Mauro Boselli is close to finding his form in England.
The 25-year-old Argentina international made the switch to the Latics for £6million in the summer but has failed to light up the Premier League since the move.
Boselli missed a penalty against West Ham on Saturday and has only scored once for Wigan - against Swansea in the Carling Cup.
Martinez believes the former Boca Juniors ace will soon find his feet and reproduce the form that made him one of South America's brightest talents.
"I am very confident in the way that I want him to enjoy his football," he said.
"He is settling in - it is very, very different to what he has been used to.
"However, his goalscoring ratio in the Copa Libertadores and at the highest level in Argentina is magnificent - he scored 50 goals over two seasons and we're delighted to have him here.
"As a striker you come into a new club and you want to score. He had a very good start in pre-season and then he scored in the Carling Cup.
"Slowly he's getting into better positions and has a better understanding
"His movement is sensational and we need to make sure that we use that.
"As a team sometimes it takes a bit of time for a player to settle in, there is also a new way of life, the family is settling in.
"I am pretty confident that he will be himself playing for Wigan, and if we can achieve that he's going to be a huge asset for the future."
Wigan are currently third bottom in the top-flight and take on Stoke at home next Saturday.
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Redknapp hails character

Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp praised his side's never-say-die attitude following their comeback win over Liverpool.
Spurs battled back from a goal down to beat the Reds 2-1 at White Hart Lane, as Aaron Lennon scored an injury-time winner to seal a thrilling victory.
Martin Skrtel had opened the scoring in the first-half but then netted an unfortunate own goal to make it 1-1.
Redknapp hailed the character of his side and is delighted with the way Tottenham keep battling in games.
"The lads showed great character. To come back from behind again was just amazing," he told Sky Sports.
"I've had teams in the past at times when they go one down and you might as well go home.
"With this team we come back and keep going - there's goals, we're exciting, we play fantastic, open football and we're never out of a game.
"I think we've got the ability to always create chances, that's for sure."
He added: "They (Liverpool) started well and were dangerous, it was a fantastic game.
"Liverpool played their part, they were always a threat. They had opportunities to score again, they had good chances, we became disorganised.
"But we got after them a bit better, had shots blocked, missed a penalty and eventually managed to get the goal.
"Younes Kaboul came off and obviously Rafael van der Vaart - it's difficult then, you've used two subs."
Redknapp reserved special praise for match-winner Lennon, William Gallas and midfielder Luka Modric, who played an integral part in the equaliser.
"Aaron's back, he's back fit and he's sharp again which is important. We play with two wingers and get loads of width, that's how we play," he said.
"I thought yet again today William Gallas turned in a fantastic defensive performance for us.
"Luka Modric dragged us back into the game with that fantastic run. Overall I was delighted with the performance."
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Gold explains Downes decision

West Ham United co-owner David Gold has revealed the board proposed the appointment of Wally Downes, but insists Avram Grant made the final decision.
Downes was appointed as the Hammers' new defensive coach last week following the departure of Grant's assistant Zeljko Petrovic.
The move had an immediate impact as West Ham beat Wigan 3-1 on Saturday to record just their second win in the Premier League this season.
Gold was delighted with the victory over their fellow strugglers and outlined the process which led to Downes being brought in to help.
"We're still bottom, but I'm thrilled with the victory and such a spirited performance," said Gold.
"The board felt we needed to make some changes to the coaching staff because something wasn't quite right. We proposed to bring in Wally and Avram was thrilled to have him. So I guess you can call it a team decision.
"It was Avram who had the final decision. Anyone who comes in on the football side will always be the manager's decision.
"We do our best to be supportive, but I wouldn't want anyone to get the impression we do anything other than what the manager wants."
Gold also praised the West Ham supporters for their backing on Saturday after the game had been branded 'Save Our Season' day by the club's hierarchy.
He added: "We had a full house even though we weren't exactly playing Manchester United. Wigan brought both their fans and packed their corner.
"I'm not being disrespectful, just pointing out how powerful the contribution of West Ham fans is.
"When we go to Wigan we'll take 5,000 as they are true supporters. They know if they don't turn up it has an impact."
Barclays Prem To Stay Up 10/11 Win Outright: West Ham 10/11
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Fergie expects end for Edwin

Sir Alex Ferguson expects Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar to retire from playing at the end of the season.
Van der Sar turned 40 at the end of October and the Dutchman remains a reliable presence between the posts for United.
He has yet to give any firm indication of whether he will continue his career beyond this season, but Ferguson is planning for the keeper's retirement.
Ferguson believes that Van der Sar would not want his form to drop and also confirmed he wanted to spend more time with his wife Annemarie, who suffered a brain-related illness last year.
"I have come to accept this will be Edwin's last season," Ferguson told The People. "It's sad but the difficulty for a goalkeeper when he gets to 40 is something which happened with Peter Shilton.
"All of a sudden, because of age, Shilton's form just collapsed and I don't think Edwin would want that. He is such a proud man and it's going to be a big loss.
"We had a chat last season about how he saw his future and he explained to me his plans, and nothing has changed from then.
"It's difficult because he has his wife's health to consider after her ?illness.
"She is fine now and seems to be really good but she still has treatments to get in Holland, with physiotherapy and things like that. So for him to be here with us would be difficult."
The Red Devils have already agreed a deal to sign Denmark international Anders Lindegaard, but Ferguson is considering bringing in another keeper after being linked with the likes of Maarten Stekelenburg, Manuel Neuer and David De Gea.
He added: "We haven't finalised our thoughts on the goalkeeping situation.
"Edwin has massive experience and you can't buy that, so it's a difficult one because he has been a great ?goalkeeper and will be hard to replace."
Barclays Prem Winner 10/11 Win Outright: Man Utd 2/1
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Terry set to return

Carlo Ancelotti has revealed that he hopes captain John Terry will return to action next weekend.
Terry has been sidelined for a couple of weeks following their win over Fulham.
The England centre-half revealed that he was suffering from a nerve problem in his leg, and would be out for an unspecified amount of time.
He has since seen four specialists about the problem, and it appears he is now on track to make a quicker than excepted return.
Ancelotti revealed that Terry should return to training on Tuesday with a view to playing against Everton next weekend.
"I hope John Terry will be back for next week," Ancelotti told Sky Sports.
"He will start to train on Tuesday and I hope everything is okay."
Ancelotti admits Chelsea are in dire need of Terry's return with Alex set to undergo surgery next week on a long standing knee complaint.
"Obviously we hope to recover John Terry," he continued.
"He is important to us he is a fantastic player, has personality and it is important we have him back for the next game.
"He [Alex] will have the operation this week. He will go to Brazil for the surgery, maybe tomorrow [Monday]."
The Italian also revealed that midfield lynchpin Frank Lampard is closing on a return to action.
Lampard had a hernia operation in August before suffering a groin problem during his recovery earlier this month.
But Ancelotti revealed he would join Terry for training this week, adding: "Frank Lampard we have to wait, he will start to train with us and next week will be important week for him."
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Ancelotti looking for goals

Chelsea are 4/11 to bounce back from another setback with a win against Everton next week. Can they do it? Bet now.
Carlo Ancelotti insists that Chelsea need to start scoring more away from home if they want to get their title challenge back on track.
The Blues have scored just once away from home in their last three Premier League games, and that is obviously becoming a concern for the Italian tactician.
Speaking after his side's 1-1 draw at Newcastle, Ancelotti admitted he was not happy with their goalscoring form.
"We were unlucky but we have to do better in front [of goal], away from home in three games we have scored just one goal and it is not enough and we have to improve," Ancelotti told Sky Sports.
Chelsea conceded early on at St James' Park thanks to a defensive mix-up between Alex and Petr Cech but Ancelotti thought his side recovered well.
"It was a mistake, it was a complication from Cech and Alex, and it was a more difficult game for this but the reaction was good and we played a good game in the end," he admitted.
He also conceded that they are disappointed to have lost top spot to Manchester United this weekend.
"It is not a good moment, obviously we have lost the top of the table and we have to improve and do better, it is not enough what we are doing now," he said.
"But we had a good performance, we started bad and it was difficult from the beginning because we conceded a goal and did a mistake but after that we had a good reaction, we took our time but the performance was good."
He insisted, however, that the off-field situations at the club - namely the sacking of Ray Wilkins and impending departure of Frank Arnesen - have not influenced his team.
"I don't think so, the performance was good, just I think we have to convert the shots we have, just that," he continued.
"I think there was a penalty in the first half but he did not give it, but I don't want to judge the referee on television. I don't like to do this.
"I think at the moment it is not so easy. We have to stay focused, we can work this week and prepare well for Everton."
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Becks - Fitness the priority

David Beckham insists that his main priority is to stay fit, despite being linked with an Everton loan spell.
Toffees boss David Moyes has confirmed he would love to sign the LA Galaxy midfielder if the opportunity arises.
But the 35-year-old former England captain, who has had loan spells with AC Milan during the American league off-season over the past two years, insists his main priority is to stay fit after suffering a ruptured Achilles tendon injury in the build up to last summer's World Cup.
Beckham told Sky Sports: "I'm just trying to keep myself fit and get my fitness back from obviously the injury that I got seven months ago.
"So I'm just trying to make sure my body's in the right condition and then I'll think about it but I haven't decided anything yet."
But the veteran is determined to keep playing the sport he loves - for now.
"I'm not ready to finish playing football yet," he confirmed.
Beckham also shared his thoughts on the country's upcoming bid for the 2018 World Cup, which Fifa will vote on next week, along with the venue for the 2022 tournament.
"There's still strong competition (for 2018) as well - obviously for 2022 there's Australia and the US as well that are going for it, so two great countries that can host the biggest sporting event in the world.
"So whoever gets it, its going to be a great tournament."
Chelsea 4/11, Draw 7/2, Everton 17/2
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Magpies deny Chelsea

Man of the Match: Tough call with Tiote, Anelka and Malouda all playing well, but Ashley Cole was a class act, brilliant in defence and attack and never looked like tiring.
Goal of the Game: Kalou's take on the way to scoring his deflected effort just edges Carroll's goal.
Miss of the Match: Late on Kalou should have scored with the goal at his mercy, real poor miss.
Save of the Match: Cole's goal-line clearance from Wayne Routledge's goal-bound volley was brilliant.
Talking point: Chelsea avoid third straight defeat, but is four points from 15 championship material?
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Chelsea are 4/11 to bounce back from another setback with a win against Everton next week. Can they do it? Bet now.
Champions Chelsea failed to recapture top spot in the Premier League as they were held to a 1-1 draw at Newcastle.
An evenly contested match on a bitterly cold day in the North East saw Newcastle go ahead when a mix-up at the back from Chelsea gifted Andy Carroll the opener.
Then just before the break the champions levelled as Salomon Kalou's deflected effort found the back of the net.
Chelsea will feel they could have won the game with Kalou guilty of missing a gilt-edged chance late on but Newcastle were not without their chances and were more than worth their point.
The point means Chelsea moved into second on goal difference above Arsenal but two points off Manchester United, whilst Newcastle are up to ninth.
With Sol Campbell making his first league start for the club and Steven Taylor
playing a competitive game for the first time since January, Chris Hughton's men got off to the perfect start, albeit with a helping hand from Alex.
The Brazilian, whose visit to a wintry Tyneside may have come as something of a culture shock, and keeper Petr Cech, who had already clawed away a second-minute Taylor header, were on entirely different wavelengths as they closed on a seemingly harmless through-ball.
But with Carroll hot on his heels, the defender stabbed it past Cech to allow the England striker to tap the ball into an empty net.
The Magpies could hardly believe their luck, but as they snapped into tackles with midfielder Cheik Tiote in the thick of it following his return from suspension, they made life distinctly uncomfortable for the visitors.
However, Chelsea warmed to their task as the half wore on to dominate possession, and although the home defence were proving stubborn, they gradually started to get on top.
Skipper Didier Drogba forced a fine reaction save from Tim Krul at the near post with a blistering 19th-minute drive, and full-back Jose Enrique had to clear an Alex header off the line seven minutes later.
As the Blues threw men forward, the Magpies threatened on the break with wide men Jonas Gutierrez and Wayne Routledge, in for injured captain Kevin Nolan, prospering sporadically, although the bulk of the traffic was in the opposite direction.
Carlo Ancelotti's men flexed their muscles as the half-time whistle approached, and were convinced they should have had a 43rd-minute penalty for Tiote's clumsy challenge on Ashley Cole as he burst into the area.
They got their reward in injury-time when Kalou carved his way into the penalty area and fired into the bottom corner with the help of a deflection off Taylor's out-stretched leg.
Chelsea returned in determined mood and might have increased their lead with 56 minutes gone when Drogba expertly controlled a long ball and fired in a firm left-foot shot on the turn which Tim Krul got down well to save.
But it was the home side who went close six minutes later when Cech failed to deal with a towering cross and only succeeded in serving the ball up to Wayne Routledge on the edge of the box.
The winger controlled neatly before blasting a volley towards goal, where Cole was perfectly positioned to head off the line.
Chelsea threw everything they had at their hosts as time ran down and Drogba had a 77th-minute strike chalked off for handball, but Kalou could have won it three minutes later when Taylor, Campbell and Krul between them allowed the ball to fall to him beyond the far post, but he fired into the side-netting.
Substitute Daniel Sturridge shot wastefully across the face of goal with four minutes remaining as the champions launched a late onslaught, but Newcastle were not about to surrender a hard-earned point.
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Stoke snap up Suljevic

Swedish starlet Smajl Suljevic has revealed that he has agreed a two-year deal with Stoke City.
The teenage midfielder, who is currently on the books of Dalkurd, recently took a trial with the Potters and did enough during that time to convince the Premier League outfit that he is worthy of a contract.
He will be unable to link-up with his new employers until 1st January, but is excited by the challenge awaiting him in England.
"One month ago I went on trial at Stoke," Suljevic told Svenskafans.
"I stayed there for two weeks but then I had to return home.
"But we stayed in contact and Stoke asked me to come back. When I returned to England they offered me a two-year deal and of course I said yes.
"Next month I will become a Stoke City player and I'm over the moon."
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Van der Vaart woe for Spurs

Tottenham Hotspur fear Rafael van der Vaart could be sidelined for a month after suffering a hamstring injury against Liverpool.
Van der Vaart lasted just 12 minutes of Sunday's 2-1 win at White Hart Lane before being replaced by Jermain Defoe.
The Dutchman has been hampered by injury niggles since his move to Spurs from Real Madrid and Harry Redknapp believes the World Cup may have had an impact on the playmaker's fitness.
Redknapp also lost Younes Kaboul to a hip injury against Liverpool and is waiting for confirmation on how long the two players will be out.
"Rafa felt it tear, so that doesn't look too good," said Redknapp.
"Younes felt he might have torn a muscle in his hip. He felt that go.
"It's so disappointing for Rafa. He keeps picking up little injuries.
"It's probably because he's missed a pre-season or was away at the World Cup and not played many games.
"When your fitness is a bit low it's hard to get up to speed. He keeps getting little nicks."
Barclays Prem Winner 10/11 Win Outright: Tottenham 20/1
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Carlo brushes off Pep talk

Carlo Ancelotti has brushed off reports that Chelsea are lining up Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola to replace him as manager.
Speculation over the weekend claimed that Blues owner Roman Abramovich wanted Guardiola to succeed Ancelotti at Stamford Bridge following a period of upheaval.
Ray Wilkins was axed as Ancelotti's assistant earlier this month and, on Saturday, the club confirmed Frank Arnesen would be leaving his position as sporting director at the end of the season.
Former Barcelona technical director Txiki Beguiristain has been mooted as a replacement for Arnesen and that has prompted the rumours concerning Guardiola.
However, speaking after Sunday's 1-1 draw at Newcastle United, Ancelotti refused to give any credence to the latest doubts being placed over his future.
"I have heard of Pep Guardiola, to be frank," said Ancelotti, whose Premier League champions lost top spot to Manchester United at the weekend.
"But you don't have to ask me - the coach is always the last to know. Don't ask me.
"We are not interested. We focus on our training and our matches."
Ancelotti also laughed off the claims that Chelsea are aiming to appoint Beguiristain as Arnesen's successor in West London.
The Italian joked: "I don't know this name. I think there was a player at Barcelona, but I don't know what job he is doing now."
Barclays Prem Winner 10/11 Win Outright: Chelsea 6/4
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Sol pleased to be back

Sol Campbell was pleased to start his first Premier League match for Newcastle United against Chelsea.
The former England defender, who joined Newcastle in the summer, has been limited to just substitute appearances in the league so far.
But with Mike Williamson and Fabricio Coloccini suspended, he was drafted in to start alongside Steven Taylor and he performed well against Didier Drogba, Nicolas Anelka and Salomon Kalou.
"It's always nice to come back at home, whenever it comes you've got to take it and get on with it," he told Sky Sports.
"I've been training hard, working hard, and it's great to be out there."
Campbell thought Newcastle were well worth their point against Chelsea, adding: "We had to work hard and use the ball well. They're a great side, they came back to 1-1, but you can't beat it."
Full-back Jose Enrique paid tribute to Campbell and Taylor upon their returns to the side.
"The two centre-backs played their first game and they played really well," the Spaniard said.
"Chelsea are a really good team, we played really well in defence. I think we deserved a draw today and we are really happy with that.
"We had to drop back, it's normal against this team. If not, we lose maybe 6-1."
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Hodgson's Torres belief

Liverpool boss Roy Hodgson insists that he still has full belief in striker Fernando Torres.
Torres was again far from his best on Sunday as Liverpool missed a number of good chances before succumbing 2-1 to Tottenham.
Earlier this season Hodgson admitted Torres was struggling with his confidence following an injury-hit World Cup.
But he looked to be back to his best when he scored a brilliant brace in their victory over champions Chelsea.
Torres then scored against Wigan, but three successive blanks have followed, leaving Hodgson to offer his backing to the Spaniard.
"I think 'crisis of confidence' may be too strong," said Hodgson.
"I was pleased with Fernando Torres.
"Fernando himself, because he sets very high standards, will be disappointed he didn't take one of the goal chances which his good play - to be fair - created."
Barclays Prem Top Goalscorer 10/11: Torres, F. 8/1
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Grant welcomes fresh input

Avram Grant feels his new-look coaching team is finally starting to get through to the players.
The Israeli has endured a tough start to his reign at West Ham, having inherited the hot-seat over the summer.
A run which brought just one win from the opening 14 fixtures of the season left the Hammers languishing at the foot of the Premier League table and bracing themselves for a relegation dogfight.
They continue to prop up the table at present, but did at least secure a second success of the season at home to fellow strugglers Wigan on Saturday.
It was imperative they took something from that tie, with morale in the camp having received a welcome lift.
The Latics success came on the back of a back-room shake-up at Upton Park which has seen assistant manager Zelko Petrovic head for the exits and former Brentford boss Wally Downes drafted in to work with the defence.
Grant feels he now has all the necessary tools at his disposal to generate results and is delighted with the passion Downes has brought to his role.
"If [Arsene] Wenger is quiet and Arsenal win, everybody says it's a good thing. I just think the message needs to be clear. People have different ways of bringing the message," he said.
"Wally asked me before the game if he could shout and say whatever he wants. He did well, is very happy, energetic.
"Petrovic is a good guy, very positive and did a good job, but he was assistant manager.
"Wally has a specific job that he is committed to. He is doing it well, is very passionate - but he does it in a different way."
Grant has also confirmed that he plans to bring in further coaches, with former West Ham favourite Paolo Di Canio touted as one possible arrival.
"We have a project and a vision here at West Ham," the former Portsmouth and Chelsea boss said.
"Our target at the end is to put West Ham in a good position with a good football style, with good young players.
"Part of this is to build the coaching staff and from time to time we will add to the staff. This is the future of the game."
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