Agent expects Borini stay

Fabio Borini is expected to stay in England despite being frozen out at Chelsea.

The 19-year-old Italian striker has been linked with a move back to his homeland after contract talks stalled in the summer.

He made eight appearances during the course of last season and despite some impressive form in the reserves, he is yet to feature this term.

The Under 21 international joined Chelsea from Bologna in 2007 and is out of contract in the summer.

Parma have been strongly linked with the youngster, who is currently recovering from shoulder surgery, while Lazio and Juventus are also thought to be monitoring the situation.

But his agent, Marco De Marchi, is confident he will earn a new deal in England, either from Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti or one of their Premier Legaue rivals.

"At this time Fabio's just thinking about his rehabilitation from injury," he told calciomercato.com.

"The boy is disappointed by the behaviour of Chelsea, which put him out of the squad despite the excellent things he did last season.

"Parma are interested in Borini but it's not only them. That's normal for a player of the Under-21 national team, who has experience at international level and is out of contract in 2011.

"Ancelotti has great respect for him, and this affects a lot. He would return with pleasure to Italy but it is not necessary yet.

"The boy grew up in England and he loves English football. We will evaluate the offers that will come but I wouldn't be surprised if he stays in the Premier League."

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Murphy backing Reds boss Roy

Fulham playmaker Danny Murphy believes Roy Hodgson will be a success at Liverpool providing he is given the time at the helm.

The experienced tactician left the Cottagers for Anfield in the summer after guiding the West Londoners away from the drop zone and into Europe.

Hodgson replaced long-serving boss Rafa Benitez and while Reds fans initially welcomed the change, they are unhappy at the club's indifferent campaign to date.

The ex-Fulham manager is under pressure to turn around the club's fortunes and Murphy believes that if he has more than one season to stamp his authority then fans will be rewarded.

Murphy spent seven years as a player with the Merseysiders so knows the expectations at Anfield and he is backing Hodgson to bring success to the club.

"If I was a betting man, I would guarantee they are going to finish in the top four," said Murphy.

"The club is in a bit of a predicament, but you couldn't ask for a more humble gentleman to deal with that.

"The dilemma for me came when I was getting calls from people at Liverpool asking me about Roy. I knew I could say nothing and they would still probably employ him.

"But I was praising him because that's what he deserves, being honest and knowing that it would probably help them decide he was the right man.

"I didn't want to see him go, but football success generally means that people move on.

"The great thing for him was that he got to manage one of the great teams in Europe and Liverpool got one of the best coaches around.

"I hear positive sounds coming out of the club about him. The people up there don't suffer fools.

"You will get a more successful Liverpool there this season, but the fans are realistic at the moment about what's achievable.

"Roy wants to be a success and success for Liverpool is competing with Manchester United and Chelsea.

"He might need a bit longer than one season to do that, but he will bring them closer. I don't think the fans expect them to win the Premier League this season - they are more realistic than that.

"I think some stability, getting back into the Champions League and getting extra money in is what's needed. Roy will do that. He's a winner."

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Doumbia reveals Blues dream

CSKA Moscow striker Seydou Doumbia has admitted he would love to play in the Premier League and Chelsea are his favourite team.

The 22-year-old only joined CSKA from Swiss side Young Boys in January but he admits he is struggling to adjust to life in the Russian capital.

He is therefore keen to secure a switch elsewhere and has made it clear that his preferred destination would be Stamford Bridge.

Seydou, who was part of the Ivory Coast squad at this summer's World Cup, has always been a follower of English football.

And a move to the Blues would see him link up with compatriots Didier Drogba and Salomon Kalou.

"Chelsea have been my favourite team since I was a kid," Seydou, who is reportedly valued at around £5million by CSKA, said in The Sun.

"It's my dream to play in England - Moscow is too cold for me."

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Mancini thrilled with top spot

Roberto Mancini expressed his delight after Manchester City drew 1-1 with Juventus to finish top of the Europa League's Group A.

Jo's late equaliser ensured City were group winners ahead of Lech Poznan, which means they are seeded for Friday's draw for the last 32 and will avoid the clubs coming into the competition from the Champions League.

Mancini made nine changes and Nicolo Giannetti opened the scoring for the hosts in Turin on the stroke of half-time.

Lech were set to claim top spot as they were leading Red Bull Salzburg but the Blues battled back in the second half, with Jo atoning for an early miss by producing a cool finish from Adam Johnson's through-ball.

"I am very happy because we wanted this," Mancini said. "It was very important to finish top of the group.

"We have a chance to go all the way, but it is important to have a good draw for the next round, and after that we will see.

"Juventus have a good team, and we started very well. It was strange to concede the goal, but we played well, and for me this is important.

"I did not expect to play against such a strong Juventus team. Our players showed good character, and we hope to carry on like this. But in the end I think we deserved a draw, minimum."

It was Jo's second goal of the competition and third overall this season, and Mancini was pleased for a player who once seemed surplus to requirements at Eastlands.

City signed the Brazil international from CSKA Moscow in the summer of 2008 but the 23-year-old failed to live up to his £18million price-tag and went on loan to Everton and Galatasaray before returning in pre-season and earning a place in Mancini's plans.

"I have known Jo for five years," said the former Inter Milan boss.

"He played against Inter in the Champions League and scored two goals. He was young, but he was a good player, and he is still a good player.

"He played the last two games for us and did not score. But he has done very well, so I am pleased he has scored tonight."

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Bruce eyes Europe bid

Sunderland manager Steve Bruce believes his team are ready to challenge for a place in Europe.

Bruce's side could go fifth if they beat Bolton on Saturday after the Black Cats enjoyed a fine start to their Premier League campaign.

And the manager believes if his players can maintain their impressive form that could propel them into continental competition next year.

"I would say we have the nucleus of Sunderland's best squad for a long time," said Bruce. "But it is important that we keep improving.

"We haven't had the players here to handle the levels of expectation since the (Niall) Quinn and (Kevin) Phillips days.

"Our players have to overcome the big ground and big crowd. Being at a club like this comes with expectation and it comes very quickly.

"Bolton have been in this division for 10 years, while this club has been down three times in that space of time and in two of those seasons we finished with 19 and 15 points in the Premier League.

"How and why I just do not know. Even Blackpool and Wigan give it a go."

Sunderland endured a difficult campaign last season and flirted with a relegation battle before pulling away into mid-table safety.

But Bruce has assembled a team that is competing at the right end of the division this time out, aided by big money signings like Asamoah Gyan.

The 49-year-old reckons the next four weeks will be crucial to any European tilt, although he is confident Sunderland's time has now arrived.

"It is enough to get in the Premier League for most clubs and to survive, but not here," Bruce explained.

"That level of expectation is strange because there has not been much success in the North East over the years, but it is there because the area loves its football.

"It is everything to them. Whether can we can make a push for Europe, the next six weeks will tell us.

"The January period usually sorts out where you'll be. Those four games will be a huge part of where we will finish up. Can we get to the top 10 and compete for Europe? Why not?"

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Capello's City link rejected

England boss Fabio Capello has no plans to take over at Manchester City or Inter Milan, his representative has said.

Rumours had circulated that the Three Lions manager was wanted by the Eastlands outfit should they decide to part company with Roberto Mancini.

And reports coming out of Italy suggested the 64-year-old, who is due to remain with England until 2012, could replace under-pressure Inter boss Rafa Benitez.

However, Capello's son and manager, Pierfilippo, insists the suggestions are nonsense and promptly scotched the conjecture.

"I honestly don't believe he would sign an agreement with anyone without asking me about it," Pierfilippo told The Sun.

"I will be really honest and open with you. I know nothing about my father joining a club in Italy, in England or anywhere else and I speak with Fabio every day.

"And I do not believe he has agreed any secret deal with any club. He is not the kind of man who would make an agreement like that. If anything was happening, I would know.

"But I have not had a single call or any contact with whatsoever with anyone. And if someone had contacted my father then he would call me."

Capello is currently contracted to his Three Lions hot seat until 2012, when his £6million-a-year deal will expire.

The Italian had come under fire for his team's lacklustre performance in the World Cup in South Africa over summer.

But he clung onto his job, and his representative says his father is happy to continue managing England and has given no indication that he wants to secure an early exit.

He added: "If he was interested he would ask me to make contact with the FA and find out if he could leave right away, at the end of the season, in the next six months or in a year.

"That's the first thing he would do - and he has not done that yet. He would call me and say 'I have been called by say the New York Red Bulls and they are offering me £50million a year, how can I make that happen.

"Can you call the FA and see if I can terminate my contract, and see if they will agree to that?' But that's just fantasy. The truth is he has a contract with the FA until 2012."

Asked about his father's future following his England reign, Pierfilippo said: "That's a question I can't answer, that's a question for the future, that's a question for 2012.

"But I can tell you the smart money is on my father going nowhere."

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Almunia to decide fate

Arsene Wenger says Manuel Almunia will decide whether he remains at Arsenal, insisting the goalkeeper must fight for his place at the club.

Almunia has been out of the Gunners team since September after injuring his elbow against West Brom when saving a Chris Brunt penalty.

His absence has led to speculation the Spaniard could be on his way out of Emirates Stadium, with Lukasz Fabianski and Wojciech Szczesny now regarded to be ahead of him in the pecking order.

Almunia has been ruled out for another three weeks after sustaining a further injury training with the reserves as Malaga and Atletico Madrid reportedly circle.

Wenger says the rumours will have no bearing on the 33-year-old's future, but maintained that his keeper must accept the competition in his ranks.

"I will listen to Manuel Almunia only," the Arsenal manager said. "We are in a fantastic job, but the core of our job is to fight to be competitive and to fight for your place.

"Nobody can be where we are in such a privileged job and think 'it is a shame we have to compete for our places'. That is the least we can do.

"I am surprised every time a player has to fight for his position that you think straight away he has to leave."

Wenger tried to sign Fulham stopper Mark Schwarzer in the summer and is also said to be keen on Manchester City's Shay Given and Middlesbrough's Jason Steele, according to reports.

But after Szczesny made his top flight debut against Manchester United on Monday, the Frenchman is content with the options at his disposal - meaning Almunia has two strong contestants vying for his slot.

Wenger added: "We want three goalkeepers at the top level and you have seen on Monday night we had Wojciech who made his debut in the Premier League and we had Fabianski on the bench.

"If something happens to one you need three world-class goalkeepers."

Arsenal were overtaken by United after the 1-0 reverse at Old Trafford and return to Premier League duty with a home clash against Stoke.

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Jenas won't rush back

Tottenham midfielder Jermaine Jenas will not risk another setback by rushing his return from injury.

The England international has been struggling with a calf complaint of late, with the knock originally sustained during a UEFA Champions League clash with Werder Bremen in November.

In a desperate bid to return to the side, having forced his way back into Harry Redknapp's plans, he further inflamed the problem by figuring in another continental clash against FC Twente.

He was forced to limp out of the fixture in Holland, consigning him to another spell on the sidelines.

Jenas is aware that he must take every precaution to avoid suffering a similar fate again, but is happy with the progress being made in his rehabilitation.

"It's been coming on well, I've been running for the last three or four days," he told Sky Sports News.

"The problem before was that I probably rushed it a bit too much. The squad had been pretty stretched over a busy period so I was hoping I could help out but pushed it a bit too far."

It had been suggested that Jenas could be back in contention for Spurs' trip to Blackpool On Sunday, but he feels the clash at Bloomfield Road may come 'too soon'.

He joked: "I don't know. I think it might be a game too soon. Hopefully it will get called off, then I will have another week."

Jenas is keen to get back out on the field as Tottenham continue to make impressive progress at home and abroad.

One of the driving forces behind their success this season has been Dutch playmaker Rafael van der Vaart, who Jenas admits has been a revelation since being snapped up from Real Madrid on transfer deadline day.

"It's surprising how well he has fitted into the group, it's like he's been here three, four, five years. He is a top lad as well," he said.

"In terms of his performances, what he has done speaks for itself. The experience he brings from playing in international football and in European football has really helped us, especially at some stages of the Champions League.

"He gives us something different. We have got out and out pace on the wings with (Gareth) Bale and (Aaron) Lennon. Rafa can play from the right sometimes and drift in or he can play off the front and link between the midfield and forwards, so he does give us something different."

Blackpool v Tottenham 1st Goalscorer: Van Der Vaart, R. 9/2

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Mancini set for Tevez talks

Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini has confirmed he is due to speak to Carlos Tevez on Friday after the striker handed in a transfer request.

The City skipper's request was promptly rejected by the club, with whom the Argentinian star is under contract until 2014.

The 26-year-old then responded by saying relationships with 'certain executives' at the club have broken down beyond repair and made it clear he wants to move on even though City turned down his transfer request.

Tevez returned to training in England earlier this week following a short break in Tenerife and did not travel with the rest of the squad to Turin for Thursday's Europa League game with Juventus, although City had already qualified for the knock-out stage.

Mancini spoke after the 1-1 draw and, ahead of the talks, the Blues boss indicated he would be willing to play Tevez in Monday's home game against Everton.

"When I arrive at the training ground, I will speak with Carlos," said Mancini.

"Will he play on Monday? Yes, why not?

"He has trained with us since Tuesday, and he doesn't have a problem."

Tevez is City's top scorer this season with 10 goals from 16 games and last term claimed a 29-goal haul in his first season at the club.

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McLeish keen to keep Larsson

Birmingham manager Alex McLeish is ready to make an improved contract offer to midfielder Seb Larsson.

The Sweden international has been linked with a £2million move to rivals Stoke when the January transfer window opens.

Potters chairman Peter Coates revealed the club's interest in signing the player, whose deal expires at the end of the season.

However, McLeish hopes the 25-year-old former Arsenal man will still be a Blues player at the start of February.

And the St Andrews club have been in touch with Stoke to warn them over their conduct.

The Scot said: "Peter maybe doesn't know the rules. We'll forgive him on this occasion. I'm sure he will have been aware of them by yesterday (Thursday).

"Julia Shelton, our club secretary, would be on to that. She has been in the game a long time."

Despite Larsson's agent making it clear Birmingham's opening offer wasn't good enough, McLeish is hopeful he will commit to a new deal, confirming a fresh offer is imminent.

"I think it's being prepared as we speak!" he added. "Then it will be up to Seb.

"We will have to see whether he accepts it or not, or if there is any further negotiation. We'd like to keep Seb. We don't like young guys like Seb walking away on free transfers.

"He's a good asset and he's had a good season so far.

"But he's got to put it to one side and concentrate on his game."

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Fletcher looking to dominate

Darren Fletcher believes Manchester United must start dominating games if they are to be successful this season.

With a key game against Chelsea on Sunday fast approaching, the Scottish midfielder believes his United team must start to finish teams off to guarantee three points.

A Wayne Rooney penalty miss set up a nervous finish on Monday, with the Reds holding on to a slender 1-0 lead over Arsenal at Old Trafford to take them back to the top of the table.

Fletcher believes that United should be looking to go on and finish games off, calling for a return to the ruthless domination witnessed during November's 7-1 destruction of Blackburn Rovers.

"We need to be seeing teams off," Fletcher told the Daily Star.

"There are times when we have played well and ended up drawing.

"We might have played fantastic for 85 minutes but lost the victory because of two late goals.

"Some games have seen us show character and fight back for draws against the likes of Bolton and Aston Villa, so in that respect, it has been stop-start."

Chelsea v Man. Utd To Score 2+ Goals: Man. Utd 5/2

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Wenger wants Shawcross respect

Arsene Wenger has called on Arsenal fans not to target Ryan Shawcross when they face Stoke this weekend.

Shawcross is set to face the Gunners for the first time since his challenge resulted in midfielder Aaron Ramsey suffering a double leg fracture during the Premier League game at the Britannia Stadium in February.

Ramsey has now recovered full fitness and is currently on loan at Championship side Nottingham Forest.

Shawcross, though, can still expect a rough reception from the home supporters - although Potters boss Tony Pulis laughed off suggestions the player will be provided with his own personal security into and out of the ground.

In the immediate aftermath of the match at the Britannia Stadium, Wenger labelled Shawcross' challenge as "horrendous" and highlighted similar incidents against his players, Abou Diaby and Eduardo.

However, Wenger insists with Ramsey now on the road back to full fitness, it is time to draw a line under the saga and he insists Shawcross will not need extra protection at the Emirates on Saturday.

Asked whether Shawcross would need extra protection at the weekend, Wenger said: "I can reassure you that will not be needed. What happened in the past, happened in the past.

"We have come out on that - I don't think there is any need to add any fuel on it and just focus on playing football as we always do and respecting our opponents.

"What is important is we want to see a football game where both teams play good football.

"It is Arsenal against Stoke. Every game is different and it is a new start.

"We do not have any preconceived ideas before the game happens on any individual.

"We want to win the game, focus on it and respect our opponent as we always do."

Shawcross was distraught following the incident, and has sent messages of support to Ramsey.

Wenger reflected: "It is only Ramsey who can forgive Ryan Shawcross for what happened to him. I cannot forgive. I have not that power.

"If you were the manager of Aaron Ramsey, who is 18 and has two bones broken in his leg, you cannot say you are not upset, it is absolutely normal you are upset.

"I gave my feelings at the moment, what we were focused on after that was to get Ramsey back to playing again, what he is just starting to do now.

"We care about Aaron Ramsey and his career. We did not focus on Shawcross, that is why I don't feel there is any need to talk about that."

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Pulis - More fouls from Gunners

Stoke boss Tony Pulis has hit out at Arsenal's disciplinary record ahead of their Premier League meeting at Emirates Stadium on Saturday.

Pulis feels the Potters are unfairly tagged as being a physical side, with Gunners boss Arsene Wenger going as far as to accuse them of using 'rugby' tactics earlier in the season.

The build-up to the match has been dominated by the debate over Ryan Shawcross who will be making his first appearance in North London since the tackle which broke Aaron Ramsey's leg at the Britannia Staduim in February.

But Pulis has highlighted the fact that Arsenal actually have a worse disciplinary record than his men as he seeks to see one of the stereotypes about his side changed.

"People have perceptions and you struggle to change those sometimes," he said.

"We go into a game here where Arsenal have more red and yellow cards and have committed more fouls, yet you speak to the layman and it's 'Bad old Stoke going to the Emirates'. But the facts don't back up that story."

Pulis also suggested that Wenger is a man under pressure, with the Gunners having failed to secure any silverware since their FA Cup triumph against Manchester United in 2005.

"If they don't win anything this season he will be devastated," said Pulis. "I think Arsene Wenger is under quite a bit of pressure because there hasn't been a trophy won for five years or so. There's enormous pressure on him."

Wenger, who has said that only Ramsey can forgive Shawcross for his tackle in February's encounter, agreed that statistically his side have been worse offenders on the disciplinary front than Stoke, although he does not agree with how cards have been handed out to his players.

"He's right. We've got more yellow cards," said the Frenchman. "It's surprising about our yellow cards. Like the other night (against Manchester United) we picked up yellow cards but I thought it was a fair game."

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Hodgson coy on Gerrard

Liverpool boss Roy Hodgson admits he is uncertain whether captain Steven Gerrard will be fit enough to feature against Fulham on Saturday.

The Reds host Mark Hughes' team at Anfield on the back of a frustrating week which saw them fire blanks against Utrecht in the Europe League on Wednesday.

And Hodgson is doubtful as to whether his talismanic captain will play any part in his squad, with Gerrard still nursing a hamstring injury sustained on England duty in November.

Hodgson was due to hand striker Fernando Torres a start against the Dutch outfit in midweek, but withdrew the Spaniard at the last minute.

And the 63-year-old is likely to show similar caution when deciding on Gerrard, saying: "He is training hard, he trains every day and there are no days off for Steven.

"He is desperate to get back but, with my recent history of saying things and not getting them right, I should be extremely cagey and say I have no idea if he will be there or not.

"There will be no more bold statements from me on any player, at least for the foreseeable future."

Hodgson has been accused of being too reserved when it comes to throwing players back into the fray after taking counsel from his medical staff.

But the Anfield chief, facing his former club for the first time at the weekend, says he would prefer to send his players into battle rawer than his experts would like.

"Whenever we, old fashioned football coaches that we are, see a player bombing up and down in straight lines, running without any problems and looking as fit as a fiddle we immediately think he can be thrust into the next game," he added.

"They are a bit more scientific in their approach."

Defender Daniel Agger is also unlikely to make an appearance on Saturday as the Dane continues to struggle with a calf problem.

Hodgson had hoped to have his centre-back enforced available, however that goal looks to have been too optimistic.

"Agger is slightly behind Steven (in terms of fitness) but not far," said the manager.

"I was given a prediction for him but I'm not going to tell you because it might turn out to be wrong and I'll get the blame for it."

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Rovers deny Diego enquiry

Maradona is 8/1 to be named new Blackburn manager. Bet now.

Blackburn's owners have denied Argentina legend Diego Maradona is set to replace Sam Allardyce at Ewood Park.

Venky's Group chairwoman Anuradha Desai admitted earlier this week that the Indian owners had given some thought to hiring Maradona after sacking Allardyce.

However, the poultry giants have now distanced themselves from a possible move for the 50-year-old former World Cup winner, with Steve Kean being appointed as caretaker until the end of the season.

Desai clarified that a few months prior to the VH Group's takeover, her brother Balaji Rao was approached by a friend from South America who happens to know Diego Maradona and recommended his name.

And Desai told The Independent: "This is so something that, because we have offices everywhere, somebody spoke about but it is not true. There is no connection.

"This is something from before we got into the EPL (English Premier League) - he knows one of our friends, but nothing beyond that.

"He is not being considered, not now and forever in the future. I can assure you there is nothing we are having to do with Maradona."

Meanwhile, Desai has launched a scathing attack on former boss Allardyce for his dealings in the transfer market.

"This team should be capable of finishing fifth to seventh and it should not always be fighting for survival," she added.

"I don't think this team deserves that. In that, Sam didn't fit in.

"My father once told me that out of 10 decisions you must get at least seven right. You can get two or three wrong, we're not gods.

"But to get nine or 10 wrong is not good and things have been going wrong with transfers, that's a fact."

Desai also denied VH Group have an exclusive deal with global marketing firms Kentaro and SEM.

The company represents more than 150 professional footballers and clubs in Europe's top leagues, and top media personalities.

Kentaro could use Rovers as a way of introducing some of their top young foreign talent to the English game, but Desai has denied that will be the case.

"Kentaro are our main consultants but Sam had the final call. At no time would any decisions have been taken with respect to buying or selling players unless sanctioned by the manager," she said.

"But we didn't even get as far as discussing names with him. We certainly don't have an exclusive deal with Kentaro."

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Grant focused on table

Avram Grant has urged his West Ham troops to focus on improving their Premier League placing and not their Carling Cup semi-final.

The struggling Hammers booked their semi-final meeting with Birmingham with an emphatic 4-0 home success over Manchester United.

Despite their impressive cup run the club's league form continues to disappoint and they find themselves bottom with 17 games played.

Grant is looking forward to their Blues clash, but he recognises that things need to start improving results-wise in league action.

The former Portsmouth tactician knows the implications if things do not improve soon, although he has been pleased with his players' efforts.

"We now have a Carling Cup semi-final to look forward to in January, but we will not think about this again until the New Year," he said.

"We have a job to do in the league and this is all that is occupying my attention.

"The cup is a fantastic distraction, but nothing will get in the way of the task in hand. We need points and I am positive we will get them.

"Everyone has been putting in lots of effort on the training pitches and by that I include the coaching and backroom staff.

"No one is taking our position lightly and we are all upbeat for the future.

"We have an extremely positive atmosphere because of all the way we have been playing overall.

"We know the results will come soon enough."

West Ham v Birmingham - to qualify from semi finals To Qualify: West Ham Evens

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Lampard to face United

Chelsea star Frank Lampard is set to start Sunday's clash with Manchester United after coming through a practice match unscathed on Thursday.

Lampard completed what was a 60-minute game at the club's Cobham training ground, which involved players from the reserve and youth teams and he scored in the game

The England international made his return to the first-team with a brief substitute appearance against Tottenham last weekend.

Ancelotti revealed after the draw at Spurs that Lampard would start against United this weekend providing he suffered no reaction from the practice match and the midfielder is set to go straight into the starting XI.

Lampard has not started for Chelsea since August after undergoing hernia surgery and his return will be a massive boost for Carlo Ancelotti's side after an alarming dip in form.

Watch Chelsea take on Manchester United live on Sky Sports HD1 and 1 and in Sky Sports 3D from 3.30pm on Sunday.

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Hazard drops Arsenal hint

Lille winger Eden Hazard has revealed that he would consider joining Arsenal at the end of the season.

The 19-year-old is one of the hottest properties in Europe after some excellent performances for the Ligue 1 club, earning him high praise from French legend Zinedine Zidane.

Zidane has reportedly urged Real Madrid to step up their attempts to bring the Belgium international in at the Bernabeu, but they are likely to face competition from the Gunners.

Hazard has been impressed by the record of Arsene Wenger for bringing through promising youngsters to the highest level early in their careers, having had similar success with the likes of Samir Nasri, Cesc Fabregas and Robin van Persie.

He also claimed that he turned down the opportunity to move on in the summer, as he felt it was too early to make the switch.

"I could have gone last June, but I was not ready to make that big leap," he said.

"Recently the press have been writing about interest from Liverpool, and it is nice to hear your name being mentioned everywhere, especially with the best teams in the world.

"If I do leave at the end of the season, I don't want to go somewhere where I will be on the bench.

"I am young, not 20 until next month, and it will be difficult to break through in a team like Real, where (Cristiano) Ronaldo and Kaka are my competitors.

"But there are teams like Arsenal, where youngsters can grow more easily into the first team and make their mark.

"I will not leave for another French club, because, with 100 matches under my belt for Lille. I don't think I have to prove my qualities for a team in the same league."

Arsenal 2/7, Draw 9/2, Stoke 9/1

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Babel happier under Hodgson

Ryan Babel has revealed that he prefers Roy Hodgson's managerial methods to those of Rafa Benitez and would like to remain at Liverpool.

The Dutch striker has only shown glimpses of his undoubted potential since being brought to Anfield as a highly-rated youngster by Benitez in the summer of 2007.

He has regularly been linked with a move elsewhere after failing to establish himself as a permanent fixture in the starting XI, but there have been signs of progress under Hodgson this term.

Babel maintains that his future remains in the club's hands, although he wants to stay and show that he can be successful in the Premier League.

"It doesn't annoy me that I always get asked about my future. It is not up to me whether I see my future here, it is up to Liverpool," he said.

"This is my fourth season, so it is up to them what they do. I have one more year on my contract at the end of the season and I would like to stay.

"It has been frustrating here as a player but it has not changed my loyalty to the club.

"It is more about the manager. The club is fantastic but if a manager does not like you, it is between you and him."

Babel admits that he is finding life far more enjoyable under Hodgson, praising the current Reds boss for having a closer relationship with the players.

The former Ajax star, 23, also believes that Hodgson is getting the best out of him by playing him as a centre-forward rather than a winger.

"The club is amazing and there are still a lot of fans who believe in me, so that gives me a goal," he said.

"And things are different under Roy Hodgson. He does things differently. Maybe that suits me better.

"When he arrived, he was closer with the team - talking to players. Maybe that gives the players a boost to respond better.

"He is more involved day to day with the players. Under Rafa, the assistant managers took a lot of responsibility but that is different now.

"And it helps that I am playing in a more central role.

"That position suits me a bit better because you can use most of your energy up front. On the wing, you have to defend a bit more - and maybe that suits me less.

"The striker role, together with someone else, is pretty good for me. It is how I made my name.

"Maybe the fans have been judging me on a position that is not my best.

"I hope this country has not seen the best of me yet.

"The maximum games I have played in a row is four and it is difficult for every player to find that consistency if you are not playing every week."

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Coyle denies pitch rumours

Bolton Wanderers manager Owen Coyle insists his pre-match ritual of examining turf in the six-yard box before games is nothing new.
The Reebok tactician was spotted by television cameras before Sunday's 2-1 win over Blackburn kneeling in the goals at both ends.
It had been suggested the former Burnley boss had buried something under the goal line to bring his side good luck - something he refutes.
However, Coyle was simply examining the turf in the goalmouth to see what the effects of the recent cold snap were.
"I always do the same thing, three or four hours before a game, and walk the length of the pitch," Coyle told The Bolton News.
"I checked the turf in the goalmouth because it had been frosty just recently. So I'm not sure why people thought I'd buried something.
"Maybe there's some buried treasure there? I'd better go back and check."
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Nasri - No need to be flashy

Samir Nasri feels Arsenal can, at times, place too much importance on catching the eye.
The Gunners are renowned for their free-flowing football, but that approach has failed to deliver success over recent years.
The North London giants last secured a major trophy back in 2005, with the top prizes having eluded them despite their pleasing approach to the game.
French midfielder Nasri feels it may be time for Arsene Wenger's side to alter their approach, with it important that results take priority over performances.
Monday's 1-0 defeat to arch-rivals Manchester United highlighted Arsenal's deficiencies once again, with the setback at Old Trafford the latest in a long line of disappointing showings against their fellow title hopefuls.
"Goals and flamboyant football don't pose a problem for me," Nasri said in The Sun.
"The essential thing, though, is my team wins and we're in it at the end.
"Sometimes you have to store away your flashy clothes in the cupboard and work for the team.
"It was more of a tactical game against United, where you had to defend a lot. Patrice Evra was attacking well and combining well with Park Ji-sung.
"We were much more adventurous in the second half, given the fact we also had to respond after they took the lead.
"In the first half, we sat back and waited for them a bit. We didn't want to push too high up, because they always find each other in space, whether it's Park or Wayne Rooney playing on his own up front.
"We wanted to sit back and wait for them and we held out well until we conceded the goal four minutes from half-time.
"We came back into the match and had one or two chances to score but, unfortunately, just couldn't do it."
Barclays Prem Winner 10/11 Win Outright: Arsenal 9/2
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Rovers have a target in mind

Blackburn Rovers co-owner Venkatesh Rao has confirmed they have identified who they want to succeed Sam Allardyce as manager.
Allardyce was surprisingly sacked on Monday just weeks after the club's takeover by Asian poultry giants Venky's.
Rao has defended the club's decision to part company with their manager despite the club's steady campaign to date.
The Rovers supremo insist the change at the helm is designed to help move the Ewood Park forward, both on and off the pitch.
Rao has confirmed the club has spoken to another chairman about who they want to replace Allardyce, although he insists they need more time to finalise the situation.
"We've not got anything against anybody. This is just to improve the club and go forward," he told 107 The Bee.
"There's nothing against Mr Sam, all the best to him. This is basically to improve the management and the club.
"It's (the new manager) in the pipeline. It's too early to mention today. We'll come back to you as fast as possible.
"We've been talking to the chairman who is there and other people. We have a target in mind.
"I can't tell you right away. Please give us some time.
"We are looking forward for the best for the fans. This is for their benefit. We are concerned about the fans."
Next Permanent Blackburn Manager Next Permanent Manager: Jol, M. 5/1
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Kia - Tevez won't strike

Carlos Tevez has no intention of going on strike in order to facilitate his departure from Manchester City, Kia Joorabchian has insisted.
Joorabchian, Tevez' advisor, has reiterated that the Argentine ace is desperate to leave Eastlands.
But he has rubbished some suggestions that Tevez may refuse to play for City.
"I want to be clear that Carlos has never said he is not going to play or train or be professional. So those rumours are rubbish," Joorabchian stated in the Daily Telegraph.
"He will play if picked and 100 per cent do his best. He feels that is important every time he puts on the shirt. He always gives 100 per cent.
"It's been said City will sue for a breach of his contract but on what grounds? All he's done is simply request a transfer.
"No-one is saying if Carlos leaves he should go for free. Everyone knows City have to be compensated.
"Of course we understand the fans aren't happy. Carlos is a big player, a very important one and they will be surprised by what's happened.
"They probably weren't aware of Carlos' feelings for the last six months and will be confused.
"Anyone who has met Carlos and got to know him realises he is no-one's puppet. Every big decision is made by him.
"He made his position clear when he wanted to leave United and he's doing the same now. He is very strong-minded.
"At this moment it isn't about him going to another club.
"Nothing has been set up for him to move despite people speculating. There's no club we've lined up to try and sign him.
"And if I was that keen on commissions I would have taken some when Cook joined City because he offered me one."
Joorabchian says Tevez has had promises broken by City, which are the reason behind him wanting to leave.
"They made him some promises, he made them some promises. In his view they didn't keep theirs and he kept his," he said.
"At the end of last season Carlos was very disappointed and upset after City didn't qualify for the Champions League.
"He'd seen things which had gone on in the season and he made his feelings known. He felt maybe the time had come for him to move on, but City wanted him to stay.
"Carlos believes that he had certain promises and personal assurances made to him, which had nothing to do with money and he was let down.
"When Carlos first signed for Manchester City there was a reason why he signed. He saw the vision of the owner and the way the club wanted to go.
"The chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak spoke to Carlos in August and made it clear they didn't want to lose him.
"There were issues Carlos raised and it was requested that if he stayed calm until after the transfer window. The specific details can't be revealed because we are bound by confidentiality. But City know those issues weren't about money.
"Their offer would have made Carlos easily the highest-paid Premier League player."
Joorabchian insisted that he was the one who persuaded Tevez not to leave in the summer.
"In the summer he wanted to leave," he continued.
"I then spent most of my summer travelling all around the world talking to the chairman of Manchester City and to Carlos in order to try and convince him that we should try to find an agreement that would allow us and help us to go to the next phase.
"He would then not feel like he wanted to leave. I think I managed to successfully convince Carlos to speak to the chairman and let the two of them find a harmonious way to get this back on track.
"I'm surprised at the club's reaction because they were fully aware of the situation and how I was helping. The two of them spoke and they spoke with the rest of the management.
"The chairman asked Carlos to stay and the management agreed that he had certain issues that he wanted dealt with. They wanted to wait until 1st September to address the issues he had because they wanted to concentrate on the transfer window."
"Through September Carlos again began to get disillusioned because his viewpoint was it was not happening. His view was that they had agreed and spoke and promises were made to him and now the window was closed these issues were not being resolved.
"Carlos wanted to leave, I went to speak to them and they said there would be a new contract, new clauses in the contract etc.
"They sent the proposal, we countered one time and then we said 'you know what Carlos doesn't want it, thank you very much, no'."
Joorabchian also insists that Tevez' transfer request, which was officially turned down by City earlier this week, was not a tactic being used to get a new contract.
"I'm absolutely confident that the emails will show we acted in a correct manner at all times," Joorabchian said.
"I feel absolutely confident that if everyone is happy to make that public we have not done anything unprofessional or behaved in anything other than a correct manner.
"Carlos has been very clear that this was his decision and he has not been influenced by anyone else.
"The people who work for the club should be 'thinking there is a problem here, how do we find a solution to this problem' rather than fuelling the fire."
Tevez and Joorabchian's relationship with City chief executive Garry Cook has also been called into question.
"For anyone to think that either me or Garry Cook are bigger than the story of the club is ridiculous. I don't think I am important enough or he is important enough," he continued.
"I introduced them and in fact I acted as his agent and increased his salary more than four times what he was earning in the States. He even offered me a commission, which I turned down.
"I'm not an agent so I don't act as an agent. You can see evidence that Manchester City invited me to help them so to suggest anything else is wrong.
"Garry was not involved in the Carlos Tevez transfer at all and I think maybe through that and other issues the whole concept of the job took him by surprise. He just thought 'oh my God, this is brilliant I'm in charge of this club'.
"I definitely don't see this as about me and Garry Cook. Carlos is his own man and has his own strong opinions and to suggest that this is about me and Garry Cook is a joke. Carlos' issues with the club have nothing to do with my relationship with Garry. My relationship with him has been like it is for two years, it didn't start yesterday."
Joorabchian hopes a conclusion can soon be reached, adding: "Right now Carlos has made his point very clearly that he has issues.
"At a certain time the club and Carlos will have to sit down and try and find an amicable solution here. It's much more constructive for people like Garry and myself to work to find solutions rather than any ideas that we are trying to influence.
"Everybody is being hurt by this right now."
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Return delights Dawson

Tottenham defender Michael Dawson insists there is no better feeling than playing after making his return from injury.
The centre-back was hurt in a freak accident while making his full international debut for England three months ago.
He made his first appearance for Spurs in Sunday's 1-1 draw after recovering from knee and ankle ligament damage.
Dawson was immense at the back against the Blues and now he is looking forward to playing his part in the club's upcoming games.
"Ask the wife how hard it's been - she had to put up with me for three months!" he told Spurs TV Online.
"But I'm back now and enjoying every minute. Preparing for a game at the weekend, there's no better feeling."
During Dawson's absence the team qualified for the last 16 of the UEFA Champions League and he has praised their efforts.
"The lads have been fantastic," he continued. "They deserve a lot of credit for what they've done so far.
"But we're only halfway through the season. To finish top of the Champions League group with the team that were in it was credit to them.
"Unfortunately, I've been sat up in the stand watching the games. Hopefully, I get a chance in February to be playing in it."
Tottenham 4/7, Draw 3/1, Blackpool 9/2
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Ferdinand - Form no surprise

Rio Ferdinand is not surprised by the turnaround in Manchester United's fortunes this season.
United have displayed some indifferent form this season and looked far from a title-winning team earlier in the campaign as they lagged behind the leaders.
But over the last month they have grabbed a valuable draw against Aston Villa from the brink of defeat, and also drew against rivals Manchester City.
Three consecutive wins - including the 7-1 battering of Blackburn - and the 1-0 win over Arsenal on Monday night; have now put them top the league with a game in hand.
Their rapid rise to league leaders has dumbfounded some of their fans, but Ferdinand insists he never lost hope.
"I do believe it," said the England captain.
"When I look around the changing room I see a fantastic bunch of players. I never doubt them or what they are capable of.
"If we concentrate and are focused on doing things we are asked, we are difficult to play against."
United have displayed a dogmatic streak this term, most notably against Villa, when they came from two goals down.
Defensively they seem have improved over recent weeks too, which was highlighted by the fact they reduced Arsenal to just one clear-cut chance at Old Trafford on Monday night.
"I have always maintained it is not just about defending as a back four and a goalkeeper," added Ferdinand.
"We score together and we concede together. If we are defending right from the front we are a hard team to play against.
"The game plan was getting in their faces and put pressure on them. We couldn't afford to give a team like Arsenal time.
"If you do that they will hurt you because they have quality players all over the park. I am glad to say we didn't."
United are now unbeaten in 16 games this term and boast an unblemished league record so far.
There has been talk of them replicating Arsenal's "Invincibles" but Ferdinand is refusing to think of such records.
"It is not about trying to go through the season unbeaten," said the England skipper.
"It is about where you finish at the end of the year. This was a very big result for us.
"It is not a defining result but it is the kind of result you are looking for against one of the teams who are also at the top of the table.
"Last year we probably didn't do as well against the big teams as we should have. This was a good way to start."
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Same old, same old

Sir Alex Ferguson would hardly have welcomed Patrice Evra's decision to cast himself as agent provocateur prior to last night's t?te-?-t?te with Arsenal but having out thought his old sparring partner Arsene Wenger so comprehensively he might just afford himself a chuckle on a morning in which he awoke to find his side top of the table with a game in hand.
United's left-back has a history of dropping verbal bombs, he offered to replay France's World Cup play-off with Republic of Ireland after Thierry Henry's infamous handball on his PlayStation, and it would seem his assertion that Arsenal are little more than a 'training centre' rankled both Wenger and his players more than they'd care to concede.
While publically no Emirates regular would back the words of one of the old enemy the Frenchman is hardly a solitary voice in proffering his view Arsenal are in danger of becoming a luxury Crewe, with Wenger's mantra of principles over pots not dissimilar to Dario Gradi's at Gresty Road.
Travelling to Old Trafford in the knowledge they had won there only twice in their past 11 visits an inferiority complex would have been understandable, with each robust early challenge forcing sub-editors across the country to seriously ponder for the first time in years whether a 'Men versus Boys' headline could justifiably be regurgitated yet again.
It would be an exaggeration to suggest Arsenal's tackling in the opening 20 minutes was spiteful but there was an edge to it that had Howard Webb been in a more pernickety mood might have seen his notebook filled sooner. Arsenal have now earned 21 yellow cards in their last four Premier League visits to Old Trafford so if nothing else their 'southern softies' moniker is looking tired.
In the end though, with the embers of Arsenal's early fire soon extinguished on a cold night in Manchester, it was a case of same-old, same-old. Wenger claimed at full-time somewhat pompously 'on both sides you have seen technical mistakes because the pitch is not good enough to play good football', which came across more as a further indictment of his side's inability to change tack as circumstances dictate than a valid excuse for defeat.
Despite the Old Trafford groundsmen's inability to provide silk grass the surface was hardly unplayable.
Wenger is quick to criticise those sides that play 'anti-football' and patronise practitioners of a direct style but while their fans enjoyed chanting 'hoof' every time Edwin van der Sar went from back to front to find Wayne Rooney from his hands, Arsenal are in danger of becoming similarly one dimensional. Wenger's style of football is as aesthetically pleasing as Sam Allardyce's is ugly, but in terms of delivering silverware it's proved no more successful in the past few years.
Arsenal's technicians are too cute for middling outfits that content themselves to sit, soak and rely on the counter-attack to offer a threat of their own but against the top sides that have players of a similar calibre, Wenger's reluctance to make changes either tactically or stylistically is frequently exposed as being foolhardy.
United have been accused of being overly negative for employing Michael Carrick as a shield in front of the back four but while on an individual level he was at times guilty of profligacy in possession, his discipline allowed the improving Anderson and Darren Fletcher licence to play yard dogs in snapping into their opponents further up the field.
Anderson has only ever hinted at his potential since joining United from Porto - it's often forgotten he is in fact Ferguson's fifth most expensive signing ever - but in the past month he has started to play with a consistency that has previously eluded him. It was the Brazilian, 22, that caught the eye over Arsenal's own wonderkids Jack Wilshere and Samir Nasri, with his ability to pickpocket opponent's passes a frequent frustration for the away side. If he can add a shot to match his engine to drive forward and cover ground remarkably quickly, United might just have a complete midfielder on their hands.
Ferguson has made no secret of his admiration for Arsenal's midfield and his strength, others deem it as a negative, is that he's not too proud to change his own side's make-up accordingly.
This current United team is not the buccaneering one of yesteryear and as such while some fans reared on a tradition of 'attack, attack, attack!', struggle to comprehend Ferguson's insistence of employing a solitary front man for the 'big' games, Berbatov must have thought he'd been caught drowning a bag of black cats after being dropped after a five-goal salvo, the proof invariably is in the pudding and three points suggest the Scot got his tactics spot on.
Arsenal dominated possession in spells but quickly ran out of ideas to break down United's staunchly disciplined game plan. Happy to allow Arsenal to dictate in areas of the field where they couldn't be hurt, United's collective ability not to be lured out of position meant Arsenal flirted with the idea of getting in all night but ultimately left Manchester without so much as a snog on the doorstep.
Much has been made of United's mediocrity this season despite remaining unbeaten in the league and, other than the demolition of Blackburn, it's not an unjust criticism. That they sit at the summit is primarily due to a settled backline rather than expansive attack. It's also a pretty ominous sign for their rivals as they look to click into gear over the festive period.
Rio Ferdinand's immaculate return following a serious injury has laid to bed claims he was finished as a top class centre-half and again on Monday, other than for a rash challenge on Bacary Sagna that should have brought him a booking, he barely put a foot wrong all evening.
A Rolls Royce of a defender to Nemanja Vidic's Monster Truck the pair are an almost perfect partnership of poise and power, with Ferdinand's last foul prior to last night's game coming on April 11 2010 against Blackburn, a remarkable 246 days ago. Compare their compatibility to that of Sebastien Squillaci and Laurent Koscielny, along with a criminal lack of a reliable goalkeeper, and it's not to hard to comprehend why Arsenal are seen as having fast feet but a glass chin.
An ill-tempered Wenger turned on the press after the game and snapped when asked to pinpoint Arsenal's frailties in repeatedly coming up short in the big games.
"Why do we always seem to lose these big games? If you are a football specialist I leave this analysis to you. Why do you ask me, because you know everything?"
Given Arsenal are still very much in the title hunt and a defeat at Old Trafford is hardly the catalyst for a roots and branch investigation into where it's all gone wrong, Wenger is right in his assessment now is not the time for panic. His ire at the press though cannot mask a shortcoming in his side's DNA that he is too intelligent not to realise ultimately stops at his door.
His side have now drawn one and lost 10 of their last 11 fixtures against the Premier League's big two. If Wenger can't figure out a way to improve on this statistic Arsenal will forever remain the prettiest bridesmaid who never quite makes it down the aisle herself.
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Lampard glad to be back

Frank Lampard has expressed his delight at making his successful return from injury against Tottenham on Sunday.
The England international had been out for three-and-a-half months due to hernia problems, but trained last week without any issues.
He was on the bench against Spurs at the weekend before replacing Florent Malouda for the closing stages in the 1-1 draw.
Lampard admits it has been frustrating watching from the sidelines, especially as Chelsea's blistering early season form has evaporated.
However, the experienced midfielder was pleased with the performance against Spurs and feels they will continue moving in the right direction if they can replicate their display at White Hart Lane.
"Every season you have patches and ups and downs and hopefully this is one to get out the way early and refocus," he told Chelsea TV.
"It is easy for me not being involved to sit back and say it has been really bad, but it is a difficult league and we started off like a house on fire.
"We have had a bit of a hiccup and maybe we stopped doing the things that made us so good early in the season.
"Hopefully the Spurs game was a bit of a turning point. We worked hard, we grafted, we showed spirit and we were strong. We take that into this week.
"You get used to watching games and being frustrated and having weekends off watching the lads go away.
"It is strange and it does make you really think and appreciate even more how lucky you are to do what you do, playing football for a living.
"It has been frustrating to be missing, but it is a beautiful feeling to be back. My groin felt very good and I have a nice long week until the next game now."
Barclays Prem Winner 10/11 Win Outright: Chelsea 2/1
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Hodgson frets over Gerrard

Roy Hodgson admits Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard is struggling to play this weekend with his hamstring injury.
Gerrard is closing in on full fitness and would provide a welcomed shot in the arm for Hodgson's under-fire team.
The England midfielder has not played for Liverpool since November 13th after he controversially picked up the injury while on international duty.
Hodgson had pencilled in his skipper for Saturday's game against his former club Fulham but he now appears unsure about naming his influential talisman.
"Steven Gerrard is not fit and will be touch and go for Fulham," he said.
"He is training every day and training harder than anyone and doing the work with the sports science and fitness people.
"If you look at the statistics after training every day as to who has done the most running it is probably Gerrard and Daniel Agger, as they are the two trying to get back fit.
"But they are doing it in a controlled circumstance; the sports science people are controlling their movements, their running, their turning and certainly their kicking.
"At the moment the sports science/conditioning people have not said to me 'You can have these two back in your training sessions' and I am still waiting for when that will happen.
"I am hoping against hope it will be towards the end of the week and they will be considered for the weekend, in particular Steven who is ahead of Daniel, but I don't know if that is the case."
Hodgson had indicated he had wanted Gerrard in full training by Thursday in order to give him a realistic chance of selection.
However, he is mindful of bringing the midfielder back too soon which might lead to a setback.
"We have to be careful there is no risk of the injury reoccurring and I am in the hands to some extent of the sports science people as to when he can come back," he added.
"I take their word for it and I can't really push the subject because I would be devastated if we brought him back too early.
"Wednesday is a day off for those who won't be playing against Utrecht and if he is going to start the game against Fulham I definitely want him back training with us on Thursday, that's for sure. That's the deadline."
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Santa Cruz looks to Germany

Manchester City outcast Roque Santa Cruz is refusing to rule out a return to the Bundesliga.
The 29-year-old striker was brought to Europe by Bayern Munich as a 17-year-old prodigy and stayed with the club for eight years.
Santa Cruz has been a peripheral figure at Eastlands this season and is expected to leave the club in January if a suitable offer is tabled.
Wolfsburg have been linked with the striker, while Werder Bremen view him as a potential replacement for Hugo Almeida, if he leaves in the winter transfer window.
"Definitely, I am considering my future and I understand people in Germany may believe I am currently injured. This is delusion," Santa Cruz told spox.com.
"I have been fully fit since the World Cup tournament. I have no troubles, I am feeling great, training every day and physically I am stronger than I ever was before.
"The Bundesliga is a great competition with big stadiums and good clubs.
"This is why I think this league is a good option. I always felt good at being in Germany."
Man. City v Everton 1st Goalscorer: Tevez, C. 9/2
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Spurs - Bale is not for sale

Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy has moved to reassure supporters that the club have no intention of selling Gareth Bale.
The Wales international has become one of the most in-demand players in the Premier League after a series of scintillating displays this season.
The 21-year-old scored a hat-trick in Spurs' 4-3 defeat by Inter Milan in Italy, before running the European champions ragged as Rafa Benitez's men were beaten at White Hart Lane.
That has led to speculation that Bale could be on his way to pastures new, but Levy insists that is not the case.
Levy told the club's AGM: "I've never deemed us to be a selling club, if you look at the big transfers which have taken place since I've been chairman.
"Both (Dimitar) Berbatov and Michael Carrick had two years left on their contract, both players wanted to go and that was the reason they were sold.
"But in the case of Gareth he's got a long contract and I can assure you he will not be sold."
The transfer window opens again on 1st January, but Levy has admitted that there is unlikely to be much business done by the White Hart Lane club.
Levy added: "The January transfer window is again upon us. We currently have the largest squad in the Premier League.
"We shall look to rationalise... Overall, we do not anticipate a busy transfer window."
Manager Harry Redknapp has also been linked with a move from White Hart Lane when the England job becomes available following Fabio Capello's reign.
And Levy conceded that is a bridge the club may well have to cross if the Football Association come calling.
"Harry is on a long-term contract. If and when they contact us we will have to deal with it accordingly," Levy added.
As for the prospect of the club itself moving from White Hart Lane to the 2012 Olympic stadium, Levy insisted he was aware of the mood of the fans.
Many fans favour redeveloping the current site but Levy added: "I'm a fan, I have lots of friends who are fans, and I have lots of interaction with fans everyday.
"I do talk to people and have feedback so without any surveys I can tell you I have a pretty good feel as to what the mood is."
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Tevez back in training

Carlos Tevez has returned to training at Manchester City, with speculation regarding his future intensifying.
The Argentine is back at the club's Carrington base following a four-day break in Tenerife.
He is due to undergo a light session on Tuesday afternoon as he eases his way back into the fold.
Tevez was forced to sit out Saturday's victory over former club West Ham through suspension and was given permission to take a mid-season break.
However, shortly after the win over the Hammers, news broke that the City skipper had handed in a transfer request and he was keen to quit Eastlands in January.
The club quickly knocked back any suggestion that he would be allowed to leave in the New Year, but that has done little to prevent rumours spreading like wild fire.
Tevez is not expected to play any part in City's Europa League clash with Juventus on Thursday as the issue rumbles on, but that decision is believed to have been taken ahead of the weekend as the fixture in Turin is a dead rubber.
Italy is one of the places, though, that the South American striker is being heavily linked with.
Serie A giants Inter Milan were tipped to be one of those likely to express an interest once the transfer window reopens, with Rafa Benitez needing to get a faltering campaign back on track.
The Spanish coach has been quick to play down such talk, though, and insists his sole focus at present is on guiding Inter to glory at the Club World Cup.
"We are not going to talk about other players before a game like this," he said ahead of a meeting with South Korean side Seongnam on Wednesday.
"I am happy with my own. For us the most important game is the first and the best team will go out on the pitch to win this match."
Tevez to join by the end of 2011 January Transfer Window. Click here to bet.
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Heskey tipped to be the man

Stewart Downing is expecting Emile Heskey to provide the goals for Aston Villa after his recent winner.
Heskey made his comeback last weekend against West Brom, having been sidelined for six weeks with a knee injury.
The former England striker duly pounced to score the winner and Downing is predicting his impact in the remainder of the season will be significant.
"It was good to get Emile back in the team and back on the scoresheet," Downing told the club'sofficial website.
"Emile is a big player for us - a massive player. Just look at him holding the ball up.
"He was making it hard for defenders and that sort of thing takes the pressure off the rest of the team.
"He holds it up and brings players into the game. He's a great player and great to play with.
"I am just pleased he got a goal because it will give him the confidence to kick on."
Wigan v Aston Villa 1st Goalscorer: Heskey, E. 6/1
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Roy not worried about Reds job

Liverpool boss Roy Hodgson maintains that he does not have any worries over his future at the club and will carry on striving to turn things around.
The 63-year-old is under increasing pressure to deliver better results as his side languish in mid-table and are suffering from a woeful away record.
The Reds, who were in the relegation zone earlier this season, have won just one and have lost six away from Anfield despite their home form picking up.
New owner John Henry described the results as "unacceptable" in a fan phone-in on LFCTV, which has been seen as a thinly-veiled threat to Hodgson.
The former Fulham boss has bemoaned his team's lack of consistency and poor performances, and was in agreement that things needed to improve following their 3-1 defeat to Newcastle on Saturday.
However, he took a hard stance over questions about his job security, stating that he had no worries that New England Sports Ventures would keep faith in him.
"I don't have any fears, worries or concerns," he said.
"But if you put it to me 'You feel there is no chance whatsoever of you getting sacked' then I would be in a minority of one in that respect.
"It happened to Chris Hughton, it happened to Sam Allardyce, Martin O'Neill resigned - we are all in that situation.
"But as someone who prides himself as a professional, who knows his job and is comfortable with doing his job, then you would excuse me for not going down the route you want me to go down in terms of 'Who can we get rid of next?'.
"Because, basically speaking, unless there is a major inflow of cash into the club and the team is going to be changed from one moment to the next then whoever takes my place will be doing a similar job with similar players.
"The owners have made it perfectly clear they are in it for the long term and they are going to be patient; they realise it is going to take time.
"They realise we can't turn things around overnight and they also realise that the team I am working with is not the team I put together.
"You don't turn things around overnight and they are aware of the magnitude of the task but they are very focused on what needs to be done and I am convinced they will help me get it done."
Hodgson was speaking at a press conference ahead of what will be an ultimately meaningless visit of Utrecht in the Europa League due to his team having already qualifying for the next stage.
However, he became increasingly frustrated with the line of questioning about his job, and whilst accepting it was a part of the game, conceded that there was not much else he could say about the matter.
"Once again I come here to do a European press conference, playing Utrecht when we are top of the table, and I find myself answering questions about owners and whether I am safe - it is a sad situation," he added.
"I came here to do a European press conference, which I am forced to do for UEFA, when really and truly I am doing a phone-in with you
"That is the nature of the game, it seems to be the major preoccupation of the mass media because they want to see change.
"It doesn't bother me because I can't do more than I am doing, I can't work harder, I can't work better.
"I have great confidence in my ability, I don't think there is any reason not to have.
"I know the players are working as hard as they can to win matches for Liverpool and therefore me as manager.
"But if you have situations like last night when you have phone-ins to the owners you don't have to be a rocket scientist to know how that is going to go because we are not top of the league.
"Had we been top of the league it might have been different but we are not, we are ninth and we are Liverpool Football Club.
"You don't have to be Albert Einstein to work out more people will be unhappy with that than are happy with it."
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