Saturday 31 August 2013

Champions League draw highlights Arsenal's need for new recruits - Yahoo! Eurosport UK (blog)

Just when Arsene Wenger thought things couldn't get much worse, they did. If there were murmurings of discontent in N5 before Thursday, those rumblings only grew louder after what can best be described as a day to forget for suffering Arsenal fans.

First, the Germany forward Lukas Podolski was ruled out for up to 10 weeks, further bloating an already heavyweight injury list that is threatening to derail the Gunners' season before it has really started. Then, later in the afternoon, a further blow was delivered from a futuristic conference centre on the French Riviera: a Champions League Group of Death to contend with.

In between came the re-signing of Mathieu Flamini, but on reflection at the end of the day, Podolski's injury and UEFA's draw in Monaco not only drowned out any fanfare that might have greeted the France midfielder's return to the Emirates, but it also served to highlight the inadequacy of Wenger's transfer efforts this summer.

Like the club's only other new recruit, Yaya Sanogo - another free transfer - Flamini is a decent enough footballer, but he's not a game changer. And given the high levels of expectation set by the Arsenal board's brash statements at the beginning of the summer and the quality of higher-profile targets that have since blipped onto Arsenal's radar only to subsequently disappear, his signing should be considered rather underwhelming.

But this isn't about Flamini. It's about what's still missing. And it's about the current situation Arsenal face; namely, getting out of a group containing Marseille, Borussia Dortmund and Napoli with a squad that is arguably weaker than last season's given their injury list - Podolski has Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Mikel Arteta for company on the treatment table - and the slew of departures from the Emirates over the summer.

Arsenal will struggle with their current resources against teams of the calibre of last season's Champions League finalists Dortmund and Rafael Benitez's Napoli, who Arsenal lost out to in the chase for Gonzalo Higuain. The Argentine will no doubt relish that chance to show Wenger exactly what he missed out on. Marseille too are no slouches, having finished second in Ligue 1 last season, and their fearsome Velodrome is a particularly difficult place to go.

The need for Wenger to rectify his transfer failings within the next four days is absolutely paramount if Arsenal are to harbour realistic hopes of reaching the knock-out phase of this season's Champions League.

He currently has a squad that would struggle to secure a top-four finish in the Premier League, as the opening day defeat to Aston Villa suggested, let alone set Europe alight. But Arsenal's aspirations should be, and are, higher than that. They may well have reached the group stage for a 16th consecutive season - quite some feat - but Wenger will want to go further. To do so he knows he needs better players.

There is still time though. And hope - recent reports suggest that a triple bid for Real Madrid's Karim Benzema, Angel Di Maria and Mesut Ozil is in the pipeline. Now that's more like it; they, along with Santi Cazorla and Jack Wilshere, make up the kind of line-up that can go places in Europe. Flamini and Sanogo, with the greatest of respect, do not.

The clock is ticking. Four days remain for Wenger to get some meaningful business done. If he can, his side might yet be able to avoid the Grim Reaper's touch in the Group of Death and make this summer's travails nothing more than a bad memory.

James 'Pancake' Taylor jailed for nine years - Liverpool Echo

A Liverpool gangster masterminded an "underworld" revenge attack on an amateur boxer who knocked him out in a prison brawl.

James "Pancake" Taylor enlisted two cronies to help him carry out the vicious armed attack on Lee Siner at a city centre kebab house.

The 34-year-old fled the UK days after the bloodshed at Kimos restaurant, in October, 2010, and remained at large until Dutch armed police swooped on him last month in Amsterdam.

Pancake Taylor is arrested in Amsterdam
Pancake Taylor is arrested in Amsterdam

Taylor was finally brought to justice at Liverpool Crown Court yesterday, where he was locked up for nine years and five months.

The grim attack on one-time boxing prodigy Siner, now 28, was today revealed in footage released to the ECHO.

It shows Pancake, his right- hand man Tony Richardson and a mystery third man storm Kimos, on Myrtle Street, at the very moment Siner and his pal Lyndon Thomas open the door to leave.

Click below to watch:

Pancake and Richardson, armed with crook locks and the third man, wielding a knife, launch a frenzied attack as Siner tries to force the door shut.

Losing the struggle and having being slashed in the arm and leg, Siner bolts to the upstairs of the restaurant where the attack continues.

As a terrified waitress ducks for cover, the men close in on the former Salisbury ABC boxer. 

Pancake throws at least two swings with the crook lock as the knifeman slashes Siner in the thigh.

The crooks then make their escape in a getaway car, leaving their victim blood soaked and seriously injured.  The one-minute assault was described in court as an "underworld vendetta" against Siner, who was left needing surgery.

Judge Mark Brown told Taylor: "He sustained very serious injuries, very significant wounds.

 "One wound was described by a police officer of such a size that he was able to fit his fist, his entire hand, in it.

 "He needed surgery at hospital for the wounds to be repaired.

 "It is also clear from the CCTV film that innocent bystanders, customers and members of staff were terrified by what was taking place.

 "Individuals fled to the back of the restaurant and others tried to get out of the premises."

 Taylor, of Edmonton Close, Kirkdale, arranged the reprisal attack after Siner had knocked him out in a prison visiting room brawl earlier in 2010.

 Siner had been warned by detectives that he was in danger, the court was told, but had refused to leave the city or accept protection.

 Judge Brown added: "This was a revenge attack that arose as a result of an underworld vendetta.

"In those circumstances, there can be absolutely no justification at all for what you did.

 "There was clearly an incident at Garth prison [near Preston]  involving you and Lee Siner.

"You have suggested that Mr Siner assaulted you and the prosecution say that this is probably the reason this terrible attack occurred.

 "You suggest in your letter that following that incident there was further trouble with Mr Siner, but the fact of the matter remains that it was you who decided to execute this attack.

 "It was you who planned it and it was you  recruited the others to assist."

Tony Richardson
Tony Richardson

Richardson, then 34, was jailed for eight years for his involvement in the attack after handing himself in to police.

But Pancake chose to flee and was subsequently listed as Merseyside's most wanted.

Rumours abounded that the dad-of-two was in the sun- drenched Canaries until intelligence emerged that he was living in an area of Amsterdam nicknamed by locals as "little Liverpool". He had left a gym and was preparing to cycle back to his £2,500-a-month luxury apartment when a Dutch SWAT team pounced.

In his posh pad, police recovered a handgun from under a mattress, ammunition concealed in a sock and a fraudulent passport taped to the underside of a table.

Pancake consented to his extradition to Merseyside and pleaded guilty to a charge of wounding with intent.

Judge Brown said: "Knowing that the police were looking for you, you went abroad. You kept yourself scarce.

"The police believed at one stage you were in Tenerife and it was only towards the end of July that you were arrested in Amsterdam."

Richard Orme, defending, said his client had fully cooperated with police since his capture but said Pancake was perplexed as to why police had never investigated Siner for the initial prison brawl.

He said Pancake had lived a "nomadic life looking over his shoulder left, right and centre" since he fled abroad, and that "he knew he would have to face the music eventually".

Mr Orme added: "He accepts he has done wrong.

"He apologises to this court, he apologises to those few people who were in the restaurant and he will accept his fate."

Pancake Taylor is arrested in Amsterdam
Pancake Taylor is arrested in Amsterdam

Judge Brown jailed him for nine years and activated five months of a suspended sentence Pancake received for affray over a bar brawl in Liverpool ONE.

He added: "The court has got to make it clear that revenge attacks such as this due to an underworld vendetta will simply not be tolerated."

Siner, from Edge Hill, is currently serving a 66-week jail term after paying to have points wiped from his driving licence illegally.

Speaking after the sentence, Merseyside Police detective superintendent Chris Green  said the focus was now on hunting down the mystery third attacker.

Mr Green said: "We have been working tirelessly with our partners to track down James Taylor and this sentence is the culmination of this extensive work both here and abroad. This sentence shows that we will not rest in bringing offenders to justice.

"It doesn't matter where in the world they may be – we will continue to work with partners to bring them back to the UK.

"This case should send a message out to others who may be abroad that they are not forgotten and there is no such place as a safe haven for criminals.

"I also hope that the sentence brings some form of closure for the victim, the restaurant staff and owners and members of the public who were there the night of this offence.

"This must have been a very distressing experience for them and I hope they feel some sense of justice now Taylor has been jailed."

Anyone with information over the identity of the third attacker should contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Don't panic, Arsenal fans! Bendtner to the rescue as Wenger solves striking crisis - Daily Mail

By Phil Duncan

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Arsene Wenger insists there could be a route back for Nicklas Bendtner at the Emirates as the Arsenal boss refuses to panic over his side's lack of activity in the transfer market.

Bendtner, who hasn't played for the Gunners in over two years following loan spells at Sunderland and Juventus, appeared set to leave the North London club this summer.

Wenger has been left with just two recognised strikers in Olivier Giroud and free signing Yaya Sanogo after Lukas Podolski was ruled out for up to 10 weeks with a hamstring injury sustained in the 2-0 win over Fenerbahce on Tuesday.

A welcome return? Nicklas Bendtner, who played for Juventus last term, hasn't featured for Arsenal since 2011

Yellow peril: Nicklas Bendtner's last goal for Arsenal in the Premier League came in December 2010 against Wigan

Yellow peril: Bendtner's last goal for Arsenal in the Premier League came in December 2010 against Wigan

Bendtner's record at Arsenal

Signed: July 1, 2005 from FC Copenhagen
Appearances: 157 Goals: 43

And despite marking a new striker his priority this summer, Wenger has now been forced to turn to Bendtner after failed moves for Luis Suarez, Wayne Rooney and Gonzalo Higuain. 

'The chance for him to leave now is very small and if he comes back well and gets fit, I will use him,' said Wenger on the Denmark international.

Injury blow: Lukas Podolski was ruled out for up to 10 weeks after picking up a hamstring injury

Injury blow: Lukas Podolski was ruled out for up to 10 weeks after picking up a hamstring injury

Legendary actor Clive Dunn played Lance Corporal Jones (right) in hit TV series Dad's Army. His catchphrase was 'Don't panic! Don't panic!' Wenger insists he won't be panicking as the transfer deadline day approaches


The Arsenal boss is under pressure to make signings following a summer in which he has failed to spend a single penny on additions to his squad. But Wenger insists he won't 'panic buy' before the transfer window shuts on Monday.

'We will not panic buy, that is for sure. You can believe me. It is not my strength to panic.

'I can give you my phone and you will see I have more than 50 players offered to me a day.

'I'm completely happy with what we do and how we do things. I don't share the criticisms that are made of my (transfer) team.'

Don't panic: Arsene Wenger remains hopeful of new additions at the Emirates before the window shuts

Don't panic: Arsene Wenger remains hopeful of new additions at the Emirates before the window shuts

While Wenger has made just two additions to his squad this summer in Sanogo and Mathieu Flamini - both on free transfers - rivals Tottenaham have spent over 100milllion on new signings.

Roberto Soldado, Etienne Capoue, Nacer Chadli, Paulinho and Vlad Chiriches have all signed for Tottenham with Erik Lamela and Christian Eriksen poised to follow.

But speaking ahead of Tottenham's visit to the Emirates on Sunday, Wenger appeared to suggest that Spurs could encounter problems with so many new faces.

New arrivals: Roberto Soldado (left) and Etienne Capoue are part of Tottenham's new-look squad this season

Welcome aboard: Midfielder Paulinho arrived from Corinthians in a 17million deal

Welcome aboard: Midfielder Paulinho arrived from Corinthians in a 17million deal

'There is a technical risk when you buy more than three players because you unbalance a bit the stability of your squad,' added Wenger. 

I know all the players they bought, but we will see how well they integrate. It's difficult to predict that. It can click fantastically well but there is a little risk.

'Honestly I must confess I am not too worried about their risk and what they do.'

Wenger added: 'What is important for us is to get on a winning run. We have win the last three so it is important we continue that.

'The game is a good opportunity for us to show our strengths against Tottenham because they have strengthened their team.'



The comments below have not been moderated.

What was the point of moving to the emirates only to fill it with the team we have we have become a poor side and tomorrow will prove that against spurs.

So Graystar Wenger has lost his marbles? There are 16 other teams in the premier league that hope their manager lose their marbles & qualify for the champions league once let alone 16 consecutive times. The only people that have lost their marbles are the clubs spending crazy money for average players. Wenger is a genius & is showing the world that morals can still be found in the game.

The criticism is not of your team Wenger but of you! You are a hopelessly inept manager who has finally lost his marbles and all touch with reality! Time for you to go I feel!

Gallas and Adebyour are free as well, well I am sure we wouldn't mind you having him back, it seems the right thing to do help a neighbour out and all that!

There is no way Bendtner alone will bring us success, trust me someone we have heard of, will arrive at Arsenal before Monday Nights deadline, and it could be someone like Mesut Ozil, or Kaka.

Arsenal fans must be very reassured that players like Chamakh, Park Chu-Young, Santos & Squillaci were not 'panic buys' but carefully considered decisions and that Wenger signed 8 players in the summer 2011 transfer window! Good job Spuds haven't been able to get anyone decent 'cos they're only in the Europa league, unlike the Gunners.....

Here's a haiku: No no no no no, No no no no no no no, No no no no no.

In 43 years of supporting the gooners, never have I felt at a low ebb. We only need a couple of signings to be better than the best. I even fear we won't make 4th unless he pulls a rabbit out the bag when Bale signs and we buy due to the insanity of unreal, Real. I thought once we'd qualified for the CL Wenger would show us his master plan signings. If we lose on Sunday, I'd hate to be Wenger. He'll need a hearing aid.

I am very sorry. I could make a comment but it would not be published. ALONGTIMEAGUNNER(65YEARS)

David Bentley is available for free. . . not sure if this a joke anymore

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Bring it on! Moyes expects rough ride from Liverpool fans... but is relishing ... - Daily Mail

By Graeme Yorke

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David Moyes is braced for a hot reception at Anfield as the former Everton manager makes his return to Liverpool as Manchester United boss.  

Moyes will get his first taste of the intense rivalry between two of English football's heavyweight clubs when United travel to Anfield for the lunchtime kick-off on Sunday.

And speaking ahead of the eagerly-awaited Premier League clash, Moyes admitted he's likely to endure a feisty response from the Liverpool supporters but is looking forward to the challenge.

Suited and booted: David Moyes is braced for a hot reception from Liverpool fans on Sunday

Suited and booted: David Moyes is braced for a hot reception from Liverpool fans on Sunday

'Everybody tells me about the big rivalry between Liverpool and United and it was certainly there when I was at Everton as well,' said Moyes who never won at Anfield during his 11-year tenure as Everton manager.

'I would think I'll get as good a reception as I did with Everton. It has always been a difficult place to go, but I am looking forward to going back there.'

Moyes has revealed Wayne Rooney is 'mentally in good shape' ahead of Sunday's trip to Liverpool.
Rooney completed his first game of the season against Chelsea on Monday, after which he thanked the United fans for their support.

United they stand: Moyes has revealed United striker Wayne Rooney is 'mentally in good shape'

United they stand: Moyes has revealed United striker Wayne Rooney is 'mentally in good shape'

Since then, Chelsea have signed Samuel Eto'o, which seems to have ended any chance of Rooney leaving for Stamford Bridge ahead of the transfer window closing on Monday night.

And now he is preparing for one of United's biggest games of the season. 'Wayne Rooney has been a great player for many years for Manchester United,' said Moyes.

'I felt he played very well the other night and he's looking in good condition and is mentally in good shape too.'

Moyes declined to enter into further discussion on Rooney, preferring instead to underline the stance United have taken throughout the summer.

In demand: Manchester United are interested in signing Marouane Fellaini from Everton

In demand: Manchester United are interested in signing Marouane Fellaini from Everton

'We told you and everybody else from day one so I don't think there's anything else to add today,' he said. Moyes was no more forthcoming on United's pursuit of new players.

The club have had another bid rejected by Everton for Marouane Fellaini and Leighton Baines this week. When asked about the pair, whom he knows so well from their time together at Everton, Moyes' response was: 'I wouldn't tell you.'

But with speculation also surrounding Ander Herrera, Daniele De Rossi, and even Kaka, who has been told he can leave Real Madrid, it promises to be the busiest countdown to a transfer window closing since Sir Alex Ferguson paid a club record 30.75million to sign Dimitar Berbatov in 2008.

'I don't know how busy it's going to be but it's a busy football market,' said Moyes. 'It might be busy in the next few days and I hope we do a little bit of business but I couldn't guarantee that.'

In black and white: Liverpool are planning a celebration for Bill Shankly's 100th birthday

In black and white: Liverpool are planning a celebration for Bill Shankly's 100th birthday

Liverpool are planning to mark what would have been Bill Shankly's 100th birthday, with Moyes now following a long list of great Scottish managers.

'Bill Shankly comes into the category of greats like Jock Stein, Matt Busby and Sir Alex (Ferguson).

'He's in that group from the point of view that he's one of the greatest managers and rightly should be respected.'

With maximum points from their opening two games, Liverpool currently have a slender advantage over their long-standing rivals. And Moyes knows himself how much progress the Anfield outfit are making under Brendan Rodgers.

'I think Brendan is building his team and changing things around to the way he wants it to be,' said Moyes. 'Liverpool have always been a great football club challenging for trophies.

'This is no different to any other game in that you can only get three points for a win but it'd be a big win if we can get it because Liverpool are one of the strong teams this season.'

The comments below have not been moderated.

where are man u staying in liverpool anyone know anything

A 'rough ride' which, as usual, will result in MUFC thoroughly outplaying LFC and walking away with 3 points. LFC simply aren't good enough anymore to compete with Manchester. - El_Pibe, Toronto, Canada, 30/8/2013 17:51***** Right then....So what happened last season at Anfield? Liverpool had 53% of possession and 13 shots compared to United's 8 shots. That's the game where Liverpool played for 51 minutes with 10 men and were reduced to 9 men after Kelly got injured. Outplayed? Hardly.

Mike EFC, isnt that how it works? What about all of the good work he did for you over 11 years!!!! I expect you will be booing him on his return as well wont you? We get a better job offer we move on. We think an ex colleague could do better as well we do what we can to facilitate that.

Easy win for United Happy birthday dear old Shanks - missed by all

Moyes is a great manager and kept Everton punching well above their weight for most of his tenure there. Its only natural that he would look to take the talent with him but as usual the myopia that is intrinsic for so many so called football fans means that now the blue half of merseyside now see him as tainted. Ridiculous but there it is. As for Sunday at Anfield, as good as he is, and as good as Man U are, I juts cant see him getting a look in such was the jinx that marred all of his previous visits. Its going to be 3 points for Liverpool for sure. By the way that still wont mean a guarantee of 4th place or higher, its way too early to get that excited.

Just show the world that you are the two most powerful team(In term of Trophys) in England and give us a Wonderful and unbeleivable Match On Sunday

No disrespect to the best team on Merseyside Everton,but Moyes will be turning up at Anfield with the Champions.Completely different ball game.A win for the CHAMP2ONS methinks. - Johnny, London, United Kingdom, 30/8/2013 20:00 I was a huge Moyes fan till the summer, but the two games I certainly won't miss him this season are Liverpool and Man Utd away. They were the only games where the Everton team looked scared, whatever their recent form, and they usually just rolled over and tried to keep the score down.

asoccerfan - We're angry because he came back to us with an insulting offer for our 2 most prize assets and if he was still our manager he would have thought it was insulting. He also made arrogant comments the other day about wanting EFC to let Baines and Fellaini go for the good of their careers because we rejected his bids.

Everton fans. If you hate Moyes for leaving then those of you that have jobs should hate yourself if you get a better job offer and take it.

Everton fans hate Moyes because he left. They are hurt and disappointed. It is unfortunate but the game is not about loyalty anymore. It's about ambition,money,and fame. It's been that way now for many years. So don't blame Moyes or anyone else about what has happened because the fans are the ones that seem to have to win games so teams go out and by players and managers to satisfy the fans. The fans are all over the transfer window wanting better players. So quit crying in your beer Everton.

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Book it like Beckham! Footballer's new London restaurant with Gordon Ramsay ... - Daily Mail

  • Friday and Saturday tables at Union Street Cafe fully booked until November
  • Opening is part of 'unprecedented' boom of new restaurants in London
  • Capital is 'disconnected' from rest of the country in terms of hospitality industry
  • But experts fear staff shortages could ground the good times to a halt

By Emily Sheridan, Hanna Flint and Daily Mail Reporter

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An incredible 2,500 bookings were taken at David Beckham and Gordon Ramsay's new restaurant within four hours of its website going live - and Friday and Saturday tables are now full until November.

The amazing demand for the pair's Union Street Cafe in Southwark, London, suggests the new opening is going to be one of the hottest tables in town this winter.

But it seems it won't be alone, as industry experts are expecting an 'unprecedented' boom in new restaurants in the capital over the coming months.

Overwhelmed: Gordon Ramsay said he couldn't believe the response his and David beckham's new food venture had received

Airy: An artist's impression of how the Union Street Cafe will look when it opens in September

Airy: An artist's impression of how the Union Street Cafe will look when it opens in September

New eatery: Gordon has joined forces with David Beckham to launch Union Street Cafe which will open next month New eatery: Gordon has joined forces with David Beckham to launch Union Street Cafe which will open next month

Urban feel: The design will incorporate the building's existing industrial-style ceilings and exposed brick

Urban feel: The design will incorporate the building's existing industrial-style ceilings and exposed brick

Twenty new establishments in the next four weeks alone are set to open in London, including from former Ramsay protege Jason Atherton, who will be heading up the Berners Tavern at the Editon Hotel in Soho, and Angela Hartnett, who is launching Merchant's Tavern.

Next month will also see the relaunch of Boulestin in Mayfair, Koya noodle bar in Soho, Marianne Lumb's eponymous restaurant in Notting Hill, and serial restaurateur Richard Caring's latest, Grillshack, also in Soho.

According to Adam Hyman, the publisher of restaurant-industry newsletter The CODE Bulletin, the number of openings is without precedent in recent years.

He told the Independent: 'There are usually quite a few launches in September, as restaurateurs traditionally hold off until people return from their holidays and London Fashion week begins – but this year it's a step beyond. We're not just talking chain openings either – you are seeing a growth in both fine dining and casual restaurants, too.'

Chef Jason Atherton is opening up a new venture in Soho, one of a number of top names opening eateries in what industry experts are calling an 'unprecedented' boom in new ventures

Chef Jason Atherton is opening up a new venture in Soho, one of a number of top names opening eateries in what industry experts are calling an 'unprecedented' boom in new ventures

Two demographics in particular are driving the resurgence, according to Hyman. 'First you have the increasingly important 25 to 34-year-olds, who consider eating out a replacement hobby, and spend a large proportion of their disposable income on eating in informal places in Soho and east London. Then you have wealthy businessmen from Europe, Russia and Japan who are driving the high-end boom in places like St James's.'

The level of growth underlines the capital's disconnection from the rest of UK's service economy, according to Neil Gerrard, restaurants editor at Caterer and Hotelkeeper magazine.

He said: 'London is the real focus. The economy in the capital has remained buoyant throughout the recession and consumer confidence with it – that is only increasing, too. London is now the great testing ground for new eating concepts.'

Other experts say central London is highly attractive for overseas investors, especially from the Middle East and Russia, who see it as a safe haven with lots of high-spending consumers.

Some restaurateurs, however, complain that the growth is unsustainable because of a lack of staff.  Dan Doherty, head chef at Duck and Waffle in London's Bishopsgate, said many workers don't see the industry as able to provide a viable long-term career.

Fred Sirieix, the general manager of Michelin-starred Galvin at Windows, pictured, has started National Waiters Day, to try to draw people to the the industry amid fears of staff shortages

Fred Sirieix, the general manager of Michelin-starred Galvin at Windows, pictured, has started National Waiters Day, to try to draw people to the the industry amid fears of staff shortages

Fred Sirieix, the general manager of Michelin-starred Galvin at Windows, has started National Waiters Day, to try to draw people to the profession. 'What we need is a big shout to all the UK people: "Come and join the hospitality industry",'  he said. 'It's the land of opportunity.'

Ramsay, though, has no such worries. Speaking of Union Cafe's allure, he said: 'In London right now we're spoilt with the range and sheer number of phenomenal restaurants available, so it's amazing to see the response today when bookings opened.

'We can't wait to get the doors open and start welcoming guests.'

There's still another few weeks before David Beckham and Gordon Ramsay's new business venture will be ready to be seen by the public.

However, London's foodies have been given a sneak peek at what to expect when the stars' new restaurant Union Street Caf opens in September with these illustrations.

This move into the restaurant business is the first of many new ventures David will no doubt be taking now that his footballing career is over.

As a partner in Gordon's latest food establishment in Borough, just south of the Thames, he is no doubt one of the biggest draws for budding diners hoping to grab a table at their place.

Artists impressions of the caf show an attic feel with factory-style windows, exposed brick and furniture in neutral colours.

Designed by Russell Sage - who also created the interior of Ramsay's Bread Street Kitchen - the space has been influenced by the local area of SE1 and has been described as an 'urban warehouse destination' which will offer Mediterranean-influenced food with ingredients sourced from nearby Borough Market and directly from the continent.

The food will be cooked in an open theatre-style kitchen so diners could watch the chefs in action.

Located on the corner of Union Street and Great Suffolk Street in Southwark, it's a short walk from the famous market, London Bridge train station and The Shard, with neighboring buildings including the Union Jack pub and the Union Theatre.

Destination dining: The cafe will be located in the Borough area of London, a short walk from Borough Market

Destination dining: The cafe will be located in the Borough area of London, a short walk from Borough Market

Announcing the venture back in February, Gordon enthused: 'We're really excited to be opening Union Street Caf in September and it's great that David wants to come on board and be partner.

'We've been working on the new site, which is near Borough Market, for the past couple of years and the amazing large warehouse space will offer quality Mediterranean-influenced food with a daily changing menu.'

He joked: 'David Beckham is going to be my sous chef.'

Still a way to go yet: The cafe's official Twitter feed showed the site on Tuesday

Still a way to go yet: The cafe's official Twitter feed showed the site on Tuesday

The Union Street Caf will be Gordon's first new venture without his former business partner, Chris Hutchenson, father of his wife Tana, who he parted ways from several years ago.

Although the building isn't quite ready for furniture just yet, a photo on the eaterie's Twitter feed showed the progress so far.

A tweet on Tuesday said: 'Cables, cables everywhere! Coming along nicely - not long to go now.'

Union Street Caf will open at 47-51 Great Suffolk Street, London SE1 0BS on 16 September.

New career: David was spotted visiting the site in early July with wife Victoria

New career: David was spotted visiting the site in early July with wife Victoria

The comments below have not been moderated.

Well said Reggie. Some people could find darkness sat on the sun!!! Cheer up you lot

There are lies, damn lies, statistics ... and PR

Hear hear Reggie from Ipswich

Is perhaps Ramsay thinking that David can help resurrect the chefs flagging business enterprise's???

How shallow are some people

David Beckham may not be the sous chef, but he will be the reason people book tables there...not because of Mr Ramsey

This is celebrity endorsement by Beckham !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sea bass @ 2 for 5 at you local market. Cut up into 3"x3" piece then grilled and drizzle some fancy made up sauce on top, the served on a bed of vegetables. That'll be 45 per portion sir, thank you very much!

Would it be too much too ask, just for once, for you miserable sods on here to wish people well with a venture. What on earth is wrong with you. You must all walk around wearing a T shirt with "Captain Negative" written across the front. Are you all such losers, that you can't stand anyone else to get on?

I'd toss becks salad.

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London Contemporary Orchestra, Roundhouse, review - Telegraph.co.uk

It was an enchanting, faintly absurd, exhausting evening, which began a few hundred yards away from the Roundhouse, at the top of Primrose Hill. Here, in the setting sun, the orchestra's string players performed Zipangu, a wonderful late work by Canadian composer Claude Vivier inspired by rituals of the Orient. The sounds were reflected back at us by specially-designed wing-like structures using (so the glossy programme book told us), "sustainably sourced timber ribs and a selection of eco-friendly skins". It was done with superb fervour, but the passing dogs and great views of London's skyline were inevitably a distraction.

Newcastle tell Arsenal Yohan Cabaye will cost them £20million - Mirror.co.uk

Newcastle have told Arsenal they must cough up £20million for Yohan Cabaye – with three-quarters of the money up front.

Toon director of ­football Joe Kinnear has taken over ­negotiations with the Gunners after the French playmaker informed Newcastle boss Alan Pardew he wants to leave.

Cabaye sat out ­Saturday's goalless draw with West Ham because he was not in the right frame of mind to play, after the Geordies rejected Arsenal's £10m bid .

Kinnear said: "We've told Arsenal our terms, the ball is in their court."

Arsenal also have Real Madrid pair Karim Benzema and Mesut Ozil on their radar and it was claimed in Spain they have offered £26m for their team-mate Angel di Maria.

Twitter jibes over bum tattoo anger Cheryl Cole - Daily Star

"Personally I've never really concerned myself with other people's body parts!"

Cheryl Cole

The extraordinary design was inked on by £250-an-hour tattooist Nikko Hurtado , who described Cheryl as "tough as nails" ­after he took 15 hours to complete the work over a period of several months.

But Twitter users reckoned the 30-year-old's inking, from her lower back to her thighs, scraped the bottom of the barrel.

Gary sniffed: "Probably the most hideous tattoo ever on chavy Cheryl Cole." And Dai Lama said: "You can't polish a turd but you can tattoo a huge, vulgar bunch of roses on the back of it."

Meg added: "Cheryl coles new tattoo is minging."

But Cheryl hit back: "People are entitled to their own opinion. Personally I've never really concerned myself with other people's body parts!"

Arsenal forward Lukas Podolski sidelined for 10 weeks - Telegraph.co.uk

Midfielder Aaron Ramsey scored twice against Turkish side, but finished the match on the bench with a groin problem after Arsenal had used all three substitutes, while Jack Wilshere's ankle was a cause for concern after he was the victim of some heavy tackles.

However, Wenger suggested both men should be fine for Sunday's north London derby against Tottenham.

He said: "The news is quite positive. They just had bumps and bruises. They will be involved."

Midfielder Mikel Arteta and captain Thomas Vermaelen continue their recovery.

Wenger added: "Arteta is doing okay, but there are few weeks to go with him. Thomas Vermaelen could be back after the international break."

Arsenal are expected to move ahead of the September 2 transfer deadline, with Real Madrid winger Angel di Maria one of several targets.

Wenger's side are also said to be close to a deal to re-sign former midfielder Mathieu Flamini, 29, who has been training with them since his release by AC Milan.

Friday 30 August 2013

Premier League - Matchpack: Liverpool v Manchester United - Yahoo! Eurosport UK

TEAM NEWS

Liverpool centre-back Martin Skrtel is set to make his return to action in Sunday's clash with Manchester United at Anfield. Skrtel, yet to feature this season, is available after recovering from a knee problem, but full-back Aly Cissokho will play no part in the contest after picking up an ankle injury in Tuesday's Capital One Cup victory against Notts County that could see him sidelined for four to six weeks. Two other Liverpool players who came off injured in that game, defender Kolo Toure (groin) and midfielder Joe Allen (hamstring), are doubts for Sunday.

Manchester United boss David Moyes could stick with the same starting line-up for Sunday's trip to Liverpool. Defender Phil Jones is expected to recover from the blow to his back he sustained during Monday's goalless draw with Chelsea. Rafael (hamstring) is still out injured, whilst Nani (groin), Jonny Evans (ankle) and Javier Hernandez (hamstring) were not involved against Jose Mourinho's men.

MANAGER QUOTES

Brendan Rodgers: "There is nothing to report until you have a player signed and in the building, and obviously because of the nature of the window and, certainly in this country, the nature of the gossip and speculation that goes on, there are so many players linked with the football club that if you answered every single question, you'd be here all day and all night. You are better to say nothing until the player is in the building. Until that point it is only ever speculation."

David Moyes: "Wayne Rooney has been a great player for many years for Manchester United. I felt he played very well the other night and he's looking in good condition and is mentally in good shape too. We told you and everybody else from day one (that he wasn't for sale) so I don't think there's anything else to add today,"

MATCH FACTS

Liverpool have won four successive Barclays Premier League games - they last won five in a row back in May 2009.

Manchester United have been given eight red cards versus Liverpool in the Barclays Premier League; more than against any other team.

Daniel Sturridge has scored 10 goals in his last eight appearances in all competitions for Liverpool.

Liverpool last started a Premier League season with three consecutive wins in 1994/95 when Roy Evans was in charge.

Last season's 2-1 win was the first time in five seasons that Manchester United won at Anfield in the Premier League (D1 L3).

Steven Gerrard has scored four goals in his last six Premier League appearances against Manchester United; including a goal in each of the last two encounters at Anfield.

Manchester United have not lost any of their last 13 Premier League away games – the longest current run in the competition.

David Moyes masterminded just three wins in 22 Premier League clashes with Liverpool when he was Everton manager (D7 L12). None of those wins came at Anfield (D6 L5).

If Manchester United win this match, it will equal David Moyes' best start to a Premier League season (2006/07; seven points from three games).

Only fixtures between Everton and Liverpool (20) have seen more red cards handed out than the Premier League clashes between Manchester United and Liverpool (14).

Robin van Persie has scored four times in his last three Premier League appearances against Liverpool (twice for Arsenal and twice in two games for Manchester United).

MATCH ODDS

Liverpool 13/8, Manchester United 19/10, Draw 9/4

Arsenal wait for Bale after submitting £25.6m Di Maria bid - Goal.com

The Gunners have tabled a formal offer for the Argentina winger after securing Champions League qualification but Real refuse to sanction any outgoings until Gareth Bale is signed

EXCLUSIVE
By Wayne Veysey | Chief Correspondent

Arsenal are waiting to hear if a £25.6 million bid for Angel Di Maria has been accepted as Real Madrid refuse to sanction any outgoings until Gareth Bale's signing has been confirmed.

Goal can reveal that the Gunners tabled a formal €30m (£25.6m) offer for Di Maria after securing qualification for the group stages of the Champions League on Tuesday night.

Real indicated during a week of discussions with Arsenal that they are willing to off-load the Argentine winger as they prepare to trim costs and free up space in the team for Bale.

But the bid has not yet been accepted and the Londoners will not be given the green light to hold personal talks with Di Maria until Real's £86m world-record signing of Bale is finally secured.

Arsenal will have to persuade the 25-year-old Argentina winger to cut his ties with the Spanish giants and also see off competition for his signature from Galatasaray.

Di Maria's public stance is that he wants to fight for his place in Carlo Ancelotti's team although his position might change when Bale arrives.

Speaking to the Spanish press after setting up the winning goal for Karim Benzema in Monday's 1-0 win at Granada, Di Maria said: "I understand the club are strengthening and they are precise in what they do. But I signed a contract until 2018 a year ago and my desire is to stay in the Bernabeu."

Ultimately, Arsenal's chances of capturing the player may depend upon Real's desire to raise more money from sales, in which case they may encourage one of their attacking players to leave.

With Isco and Mesut Ozil both starting the new season in the team and taking up two of the three positions behind the centre-forward, Di Maria looks the odd man out for the Spaniards.

One player who is unlikely to swap the Bernabeu for Emirates Stadium is Benzema, who was also the subject of an enquiry from Arsenal last week.

As reported by Goal, Real chiefs told the Londoners they will not sell the French striker unless they first secure a replacement and, with only five days of the window remaining, the chain of transfers is seemingly too complex for Arsene Wenger to land him.

However, the move for Di Maria is now quite advanced and Wenger has also not given up hope of signing a marquee striker, with an audacious bid expected imminently for Wayne Rooney.

Chelsea have abandoned their pursuit of the Manchester United forward as they close in on the signing of Samuel Eto'o but Arsenal have privately been encouragement that the Premier League champions could be willing to sell them Rooney.

Wenger has not spend a penny on transfer fees this summer, with Yaya Sanogo and ex-Gunner Mathieu Flamini both free signings. As revealed by Goal, Flamini signed a two-year, £50,000-a-week contract after reaching an agreement with the club following a final round of talks on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, Aaron Ramsey is struggling to be fit for Arsenal's marquee Premier League clash against Tottenham on Sunday.

The midfielder, who has begun the new season in outstanding form, picked up a groin injury on Tuesday night, when he scored both goals in his team's 2-0 second-leg Champions League win over Fenerbahce, and is doubtful for Spurs' visit to the Emirates.

ARSENAL v TOTTENHAM: Latest team news and stats ahead of the north ... - Daily Mail

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Emirates Stadium (Sunday, 4pm - Sky Sports 1)

Arsenal team news:

Arsenal defender Laurent Koscielny will return from a one-match domestic suspension for Sunday's Barclays Premier League clash against north London rivals Tottenham at the Emirates Stadium.

Midfielder Mathieu Flamini is likely to go straight into the squad having rejoined his old club this week on a free transfer from AC Milan, as Aaron Ramsey (groin) has recovered, but forward Lukas Podolski is set for up to three months out with a torn hamstring.

Welcome back: Laurent Koscielny (right) returns from suspension for Arsenal

Welcome back: Laurent Koscielny (right) returns from suspension for Arsenal

Defender Thomas Vermaelen (back) and midfielder Mikel Arteta (thigh) continue their rehabilitation, along with Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Abou Diaby (both knee).

Provisional squad: Szczesny, Sagna, Mertesacker, Koscielny, Gibbs, Ramsey, Wilshere, Cazorla, Rosicky, Walcott, Giroud, Fabianski, Monreal, Jenkinson, Sanogo, Frimpong, Flamini, Gnabry.

Tottenham team news:

Tottenham winger Aaron Lennon is a doubt for Sunday's Barclays Premier League derby at Arsenal as he is struggling with a foot injury.

Defender Benoit Assou-Ekotto and striker Emmanuel Adebayor will not feature as they are not fully fit, while star forward Gareth Bale will also miss the game as he edges closer to a move to Real Madrid.

Impressing: Lewis Holtby (left) played a key role in Tottenham's Europa League win over Dinamo on Thursday

Impressing: Lewis Holtby (left) played a key role in Tottenham's Europa League win over Dinamo on Thursday

New defender Vlad Chiriches is unlikely to feature while striker Jermain Defoe and midfielder Lewis Holtby are pushing for starts after impressing in Tottenham's 3-0 win over Dinamo Tbilisi.

Provisional squad: Friedel, Lloris, Archer, Gomes, Walker, Kaboul, Naughton, Dawson, Fryers, Fredericks, Chiriches, Stewart, Rose, Paulinho, Capoue, Townsend, Dembele, Chadli, Sigurdsson, Holtby, Carroll, Dombaxe, Soldado, Defoe, Kane, Coulthirst, Lancaster.

Big match stats:

Arsenal have failed to score in just one of their last 29 Premier League meetings with Tottenham.

Spurs have not kept four clean sheets in a row in the Barclays Premier League since January 2010.

There has been a Tottenham player sent off on each of their last two Premier League visits to The Emirates.

Tottenham have failed to hold on to a lead on each of their last two trips across North London, losing 5-2 on both occasions.

13 of the last 14 league matches between Tottenham and Arsenal have gone over 2.5 goals.

There have been 124 goals scored in Premier League meetings between Tottenham and Arsenal; more than any other fixture.

Shut out: A Robin van Persie double in a 3-0 win for Arsenal in October 2009 was the last time either side kept a clean sheet in the north London derby

Shut out: A Robin van Persie double in a 3-0 win for Arsenal in October 2009 was the last time either side kept a clean sheet in the north London derby

Olivier Giroud has scored in both of Arsenal's league games so far this season and has bagged three goals in his last four Premier League appearances at the Emirates.

All 13 of Giroud's Premier League goals have come in London, 11 at The Emirates, one at West Ham and one at Fulham.

Jermain Defoe has scored twice in 18 Premier League appearances against Arsenal. Only against Liverpool (two in 19) does Defoe have a worse record (10+ appearances).

Lukas Podolski has played a hand in eight goals (scoring five and assisting three) in his last seven Premier League starts for Arsenal.

Only Eden Hazard (10) has created more chances in the Premier League this season than Nacer Chadli (9).

*Stats supplied by Opta