Valencia signs new contract with ManU
LONDON: Manchester United winger Antonio Valencia signed a new four-year contract with the Premier League champions on Monday. Valencia has emerged as a key figure in Sir Alex Ferguson’s team since his move from Wigan in 2009 and the Ecuador international has been rewarded with an extended and improved deal. The 25-year-old, who missed six months of last season with a broken ankle, is now contracted to United until the end of the 2014-15 season. Ferguson was delighted to ensure Valencia’s future remains at Old Trafford and hailed the player’s contribution over the last two years. “Antonio has made a fantastic contribution since his arrival. His speed, crossing ability and versatility have been a big asset for us,” Ferguson told United’s website. Valencia has already won the Premier League and Leage Cup with United and he has set his sights on more silverware. “I am delighted to stay at United. Since my first day at the training ground, I have been happy here. I hope that I can continue to develop as a player,” he said. (Agencies)
Capello rues Steven Gerrard injury
LONDON: Fabio Capello admits he is desperate for Steven Gerrard to make a quick recovery from the groin injury that threatens to rule him out of September’s crucial Euro 2012 qualifiers. The Liverpool captain is unlikely to have had any playing time before England face Bulgaria and Wales in a Euro 2012 qualifying double-header in early September. But England coach Capello — whose side are top of their qualifying group ahead of Montenegro on goal difference — is keeping his fingers crossed that Gerrard makes a quicker than expected recovery. “I read this and it was not good news,” Capello told Sky Sports News. “I think also, Steven Gerrard is a very important player for us and also for Liverpool. Capello was speaking after attending the draw for the 2014 World Cup qualifiers in Brazil and he feels England have been handed a good group. (Agencies)
Pak beat India in SAFF U16 football
Kathmandu: India lost to Pakistan by a solitary goal in the opening match of the first-ever SAFF U-16 football championship at the Dharsath Stadium here today. Mansoor Khan scored the winning goal for Pakistan in the 20th minute. Trailing by a goal, India U-16 boys showed great temperament and character, and dictated the terms in the second half but failed to capitalise on the chances that came their way. As many as six chances were squandered by the Indian strikers. Daniel’s attempts were repeatedly clawed away by the rival goalkeeper, while Vanlalduatsanga hit the crossbar as India failed to start their campaign on a winning note in Group A. “We conceded a very soft goal. The result could have been better had we utilised the chances that came our way,” said India U-16 coach, Thomas Joseph. India will take on Maldives in the second and the final group league match on August 5. (PTI)
