Messi has proven to Neymar that size doesn't matter, says Michael Laudrup

The ex-Barcelona hero Moncler 2013 outlet has rejected claims that the Brazilian could struggle at his new club due to his small frame EXCLUSIVEBy Carlo GarganeseSwansea City boss Michael Laudrup believes that Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi has proven to new team-mate Neymar that size doesn't matter.The Brazilian recently completed a €57 million move to Camp Nou from Santos, but there is a split of opinion over whether the 21-year-old will be a success.The 5ft 9in forward has been labelled as too small and thin by some experts to succeed in Europe, criticism that has only intensified during recent outings for Brazil."Until now he has been a great player in South America, but we all know that it is a completely different type of game playing in Europe,” Laudrup told Goal."Everyone is looking forward to seeing him in Europe at the highest level, but I'm not sure whether his small size will be a factor.“Without wishing to compare him to anyone else, Lionel Messi [at 5ft 7in] is not the biggest player in size and Moncler Femme Veste outlet we have all seen what he has done.”Laudrup starred for Barcelona as a player from 1989 to 1994, winning four straight Liga titles and the European Cup, before moving on to arch-enemies Real Madrid where he Moncler sale claimed another Primera Division.

Messi gets medical all-clear

The prolific attacker was doubtful for Friday's match, but has been Moncler Femme Veste outlet deemed match fit as Argentina aim to secure World Cup qualification Argentina have received some encouraging news on the injury front ahead of the 2014 World Cup qualifier against Colombia as Lionel Messi has been given the medical all-clear to feature inFriday's encounter.The 25-year-old has not featured in an official game since Barcelona's 2-1 Liga win over Atletico Madrid on May 12 due to a hamstring problem and there were doubts as to whether he would be match fit in time to face Colombia.However, Barcelona have now announced the prolific attacker has Moncler Homme Veste outlet been given the green light to take part in Friday's game."Leo Messi receives the medical all-clear," a brief statement on the Catalans' official Twitter account reads. La Albiceleste can secure their place at World Cup 2014 in Brazil with just four more points in Moncler outlet the Conmebol qualification group.

Manchester City defender Zabaleta apologises for reaction to late O'Brien tackle

The Argentine defender took exception to the Hammers defender's challenge in the second half, but was keen to make amends straight after his side's 2-1 win on Saturday Manchester City defender Pablo Zabaleta has apologised for his reaction to Joey O'Brien's poor tackle in his side's 2-1 victory over West Ham.Zabaleta had been furious after O'Brien's late challenge in the second half, with both players cautioned for their involvement, and the Argentine was immediately apologetic for his role."I think it was a bad tackle," Zabaleta told Sky Sports. "I have to say sorry for my reaction, I know it's not the best reaction. I Moncler Manteau Femme outlet said that to the referee. BOUNCEBACKABILITY2/1BetVictor offer 2/1 on Manchester City winning back the Premier League title next season"Sometimes inside the pitch it's different, sometimes you get angry and it was a bad tackle. But, it was a yellow card for both and we move on."City's vice-captain was full of praise for his team-mates after their win, which Moncler 2013 outlet came just days after their 3-1 loss away to Tottenham and Manchester United securing the Premier League title."For us to come back stronger today was very good," he added. "I think we controlled the game for 90 minutes. "We were disappointed to concede that goal right at the Moncler Femme Veste outlet end, as we should have defended better. But, we have four games until the end of the season, so will need to keep going and we need to try to finish in second."We have been working well and we know how difficult it is to win the title. The Premier League is one of the most competitive leagues in the world. "We've been a bit inconsistent this year, unlike last season, and that’s probably cost us the title. We are working to improve our game year-on-year and looking to win trophies. "We've got the FA Cup final at Wembley, and it's always special to win that competition as well. We'll try to come back stronger next year and try to win the title back."  

Manchester City confirm Pellegrini appointment

The Chilean has signed a three-year deal to succeed Roberto Mancini at the Etihad Stadium after a protracted departure from Malaga, and will begin his duties on June 24 Manchester City have confirmed Manuel Pellegrini as the club's new manager on a three-year deal.Pellegrini succeeds the sacked Roberto Moncler Manteau Homme outlet Mancini, having guided Villarreal to the Champions League semi-finals and Malaga to the last eight in their debut campaigns in Europe's elite competition. TRANSFER LATEST2/1Angel Di Maria is 2/1 with BetVictor to join Man Moncler Homme Veste outlet CityLast week Goal revealed Pellegrini had flown into Manchester to finalise negotiations, and City have now confirmed he will begin his duties on June 24.Pellegrini told the club's official website: "I am delighted to accept this hugely exciting opportunity. "The club has a clear vision for success both on and off the pitch and I am committed to making a significant contribution. "Everything is in place for Manchester City to continue to be successful and I am excited to be able to work with such a talented squad, the executive team and the board to deliver for fans who are renowned for their steadfast support."City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak added: "Manuel is a hugely experienced and successful manager with a proven track record." Moncler 2013 outlet