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Spanish Reto Iberdrola club Pozoalbense has confirmed the signing of Tochukwu Oluehi from Nigerian side Rivers Angels for the 2020-21 season.

This will bring to an end to the Nigeria international's six-year journey with the Nigeria Women's Premier League champions as she looks to return to Europe with the Reto Iberdrola club.

Oluehi had enjoyed stints at Belarusian side Bobruichanka Bobruisk, where she debuted in the Uefa Champions League in 2013, before turning out for Norwegian Toppserien club Medkila in 2016.

The 33-year-old played for Nigerian clubs Bayelsa Queens, before Sunshine Queens, and later Rivers Angels, who she helped to four domestic titles since 2014 amidst a move to Norway.

On the global level, she played thrice at the Women's World Cup, the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, the 2007 African Games and four Africa Women's Cup of Nations, which she won three times.

Her biggest career highlights were her three saves from the spot to help the Super Falcons claim the 2018 Awcon in Ghana and the same feat with Rivers Angels to win the 2018 Federation Cup.

Having agreed to terms with Pozoalbense, she becomes the ninth signing for Manuel Fernandez's side as they continue bolstering the ranks in their quest for a Spanish top-flight slot next season. 

Confirming her signing, the club announced with huge excitement, saying: "It is a complete guarantee of safety under the sticks, thanks to its placement, know-how and experience. 

"She has enormous cold blood at decisive moments. He transmits a lot of confidence to the defence as he is a very safe goalkeeper in almost all his interventions.

“She has a lot of personalities and does not hesitate at the exits. She holds up well against one-on-one moves and has leadership skills.

"She hardly ever gets complicated. Her winning mentality will make her one of the best goalkeepers in the category. 

"She is always attentive to the movements of the opponents because she has a great intuition to read the plays.”

Adding his views, head coach Fernandez, whose side finished seventh last season, also spoke on how valuable the Super Falcons goalkeeper will be to his team.

"This is a goalkeeper who brings experience and security to the team," he stated. “It is essential to have that position with a player as a veteran and of such quality as Tochukwu Oluehi."

Aside from Oluehi, Pozoalbense earlier signed Naomi Vagre, Nora de Torres, Bruna Tavares, Sana Guermazi, Laura Vazquez, Ayaka Noguchi and compatriot Evelyn Nwabuoku.

Her move swells the list of Nigerians to ply their trades in Spain next season to seven after Asisat Oshoala, Peace Efih, Toni Payne, Chidinma Okeke, Adule Charity, Rita Chikwelu and Nwabuoku.

Frank Lampard's young Chelsea side are in the middle of undergoing a rebuild, and their new jerseys are a reflection of the club's long-term vision to be restored to the Premier League elite.

Goal has the latest information about Chelsea's newest shirts - home, away and third - as well as when they expected to be fully released and more.

New 2020-21 football kits: Chelsea, Bayern Munich & all the top clubs' shirts & jerseys revealed

Chelsea's 2020-21 home kit & release date

The Blues' newest home shirt under Nike is an overhaul of their previous jerseys, a nod to the London side's young team under Lampard.

Three, a UK telecommunications and internet service provider business, has replaced Yokohama Tyres as the club's main sponsor. The red accents of previous home kits are abandoned in favour of a solid dark blue colour with a black trim.

The sleek kit is said to be inspired by west London tailors Savile Row and has been backed by one of the top performers in the squad for 2019-20.

The club said: "Chelsea’s 2020-21 home kit brings a touch of Savile Row to Stamford Bridge by blending the latest in athletic innovation with the finesse of fine London tailoring."

"The kit is really, really smart – very Chelsea," forward Tammy Abraham added. "You can see the story behind the kit with how it looks and all the little touches that remind you of a good suit.

"I think we will certainly be the best dressed team next season."

Chelsea debuted their new home kit against crosstown rivals West Ham on July 1, with the shirt available for purchase starting July 9 .

Chelsea's 2020-21 away kit & release

The west Londoners have adopted an Arctic blue shade for their away kit, which is to reflect the "millennial swagger" shown by their young side.

It builds on from using the tailors of Savile Row as inspiration, with the club saying: “Chelsea’s stunning 2020-21 away kit effortlessly blends an aura of traditional London tailoring with the energy and colours of today’s SW6.

“Building on the theme of the club’s new home look, the Blues’ changed colours celebrate the capital’s love affair with the craftsmanship of master tailors.

“However, the away kit adds an injection of millennial swagger – perfect for the confident, emerging talents lighting up Stamford Bridge under head coach Lampard."

Lampard's side debuted their away colours in their Premier League victory against Crystal Palace on July 7, with fans able to purchase the shirt starting July 30.

Chelsea's 2020-21 third kit & release date

Chelsea's third kit has yet to be announced, but full details are expected to be revealed later in July.

Last year the third kit was launched in early September, ahead of the Blues' Champions League group stage campaign. Third kits are often used by elite clubs for European away matches.

There could be an opportunity for Lampard's men to trial the new third kit in their last 16 second leg against Bayern Munich, which the German side are overwhelming favourites having won 3-0 at Stamford Bridge earlier this year.

Chelsea are currently in the running for a Champions League place in 2020-21, but failing that a Europa League spot is all-but-assured given their third-place position with four games to go.

Germany legend Jurgen Klinsmann has revealed what it's like to win a World Cup, explaining that even playing in the tournament is the "biggest thing that can happen to you".

The former Germany international - who was capped 108 times - competed in three World Cups for his nation, winning the 1990 edition in Italy.

Klinsmann believes the feeling of participating in football's largest tournament cannot be surpassed and being lucky enough to win the event is an achievement that will always be remembered for the rest of your life.

"I think for every football player, playing in the World Cup is the biggest thing that can happen to you and if you have the luck to win a World Cup, it will stay with you for the rest of your life," Klinsmann said in an exclusive interview with Goal.

"In the moment, if you’re actually lucky enough to win it, you don’t realise what actually happened. You just think it's party time and you want to celebrate.

"But later on, after your career is over, you travel the world and meet people who talk to you and remind you of that World Cup success. Then you realise that it was actually a really big thing that happened.

"It’s a pleasure when you get remembered or reminded of what you achieved in that moment with your team and country, and you share that moment with so many people out there, who watched it on TV or maybe were lucky enough to be in the stadium. It will always stay with you no matter what."

Klinsmann enjoyed a distinguished playing career that saw him play for the likes of Inter, Tottenham and Bayern, before beginning his managerial career with the German national team in 2004.

The 55-year-old has also had coaching stints with Bayern, the USMNT and most recently took charge of Hertha Berlin for a 10-week period.

When asked about the coaching influences that took him toward a post-playing career in management, Klinsmann namedropped some of football's biggest names.

"I learned so much from Franz Beckenbauer and afterwards from Berti Vogts, as the head coach of the German team," he said. 

"Throughout every tournament, you observe your coach, the coaching staff, different departments that work with a team, whether it’s the medical department, media department, or marketing-related issues.

"Even today, you watch all the Champions League games, you always see what a Guardiola, an Ancelotti, a Mourinho... what these coaches are doing differently, what are they changing, what are their problems.

"I learned a lot from my former coaches, I had fantastic coaches throughout my career: Giovanni Trapattoni, Osvaldo Ardiles, [Cesar Luis] Menotti, Beckenbauer, Arie Haan. Arsene Wenger also, I was very fortunate to work with him."

Antoine Griezmann helped Barcelona remain in the hunt for La Liga glory, scoring a beautiful chip as Quique Setien's side recorded a comprehensive 4-1 victory over in-form Villarreal.

The France forward kept his composure to expertly dink the ball past Sergio Asenjo, and in doing so kept Barca in with a shout of overhauling Real Madrid, who currently lie top of the Liga table.

Elsewhere, Joaquin Fernandez's late winner in Real Valladolid's win over Alaves extended their unbeaten run at home to four matches - the versatile star pulled off a fine finish to all but mathematically confirm Valladolid's place in La Liga next season.

Meanwhile, Valencia star Goncalo Guedes netted a supreme goal in their 2-2 draw away at Granada.

Click the image below to relive the excitement of Matchday 34 in La Liga. 

Baroka FC coach Dylan Kerr says Premier Soccer League (PSL) teams that have already started training will have an advantage over those who are yet to regroup.

Log leaders Kaizer Chiefs headline a list of teams who returned to the training field already, which also includes Cape Town City, Bidvest Wits, SuperSport United and Bloemfontein Celtic.

Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns are yet to confirm restarting training as a group.

"That's a mistake [that other clubs have already resumed]. We should have resumed on one date,” Kerr told Sowetan Live.

“If we were able to [resume] training two weeks before everybody else, that's an advantage... We're not complaining but the protocol should have said we start on the same date.”

Although two unnamed Chiefs players tested positive for coronavirus and are recovering in isolation, the club’s early return to training could be a statement of intent in their bid for a first league title since 2015.

The Soweto giants are at the top of the PSL standings, four points ahead of second-placed Sundowns - albeit having played a game more -  and would be keen to consolidate their lead in the last eight league games they have to play.

Meanwhile, Kerr says his Baroka have already put in place everything in preparation to begin working out as a team but are waiting for the PSL to give them the green light.

“We're still waiting for the authorisation from the PSL. We've done the tests, we've sanitised our field and we also have the compliance officer. We submitted our action plan last week but we haven't received any feedback from the league yet," continued Kerr.

When action resumes, Baroka would carry on with their fight against relegation.

They are currently in 13th position on the log just three points above basement side Black Leopards.

Also back on the training pitch are 14th-placed Polokwane City, who are battling to keep their PSL status afloat.

“We started on Saturday. I am very happy that at last football is promising to be back,” said Polokwane City coach Clinton Larsen.

Kakamega Homeboyz chairman Cleophas Shimanyula has called for Ricardo Badoer’s deportation for his "f*cking hyena players" comments on Tuesday.

After Goal had revealed the Kenyan Premier League (KPL) side Wazito FC was about to release 11 players, Badoer, via a tweet, confirmed some had already been released following what he called a "lack of love for the game".

Shimanyula said the Wazito boss should be deported for his lack of respect for Kenya and its players.

“Where is he from in the first place?” Shimanyula asked in an interview with Goal on Wednesday.

 “He should desist from belittling the Kenyan players. He should be deported as soon as possible.

“These are the kind of people who hate a country they are residing in and end up abusing Kenyans.

“How can he openly hate Kenya and the players? Even if he has got money that is his own money. Men have got money but they never brag about the same and abuse Kenyans.

“Let him be deported quickly. Let him take his money, the little money he brags of with, to his home country.

“He has done a grave mistake of calling Kenyans hyenas.”

In his rant, Badoer had claimed some of the players who have been shown the door at Wazito were signed without his express approval.

“Today the Wazito FC cleaning continues. Kicking out no good f*cking hyena players that were recruited without my approval,” the businessman had stated on his Tweeter handle.

“All they did was to eat my money and lose games. I wish them the best on the f*cking streets where they belong.

“They lacked self-respect and love for the game.”

As Shimanyula calls for Badoer’s deportation, the Kenyan immigration laws are clear on when one should be deported.

“A person who, in consequence of information received from any government or from any other source considered by the Minister to be reliable, is considered by the Minister to be an undesirable immigrant,” Kenya’s Immigration Act states as it outlines grounds where a foreigner can be deported.

“A person, or a member of a class of persons, whose presence in Kenya is declared by the Minister to be contrary to the national interests;

“A person who, upon entering or seeking to enter Kenya, fails to produce a valid passport to an immigration officer on demand or within such time as that officer may allow;

“A person who was, immediately before the commencement of this Act, a prohibited immigrant within the meaning of the former Immigration Act, now repealed, by reason of paragraph (f) or paragraph (g) of section 7 (2) of that Act;

“A person whose presence in or entry into Kenya is unlawful under any written law other than this Act; (k) a person in respect of whom there is in force an order made or deemed to be made under section 8 directing that such person shall be removed from and remain out of Kenya.”

The release of the players came a day after head coach Stewart Hall and Wazito parted ways in what they called a mutual agreement to do so.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has lauded Bruno Fernandes for his "very good start" to life at Old Trafford, insisting the Manchester United talisman "has lifted everyone".

United have enjoyed a significant upturn in results since Fernandes' arrival from Sporting CP in the winter transfer window.

€55 million (£50m/$62m) was invested in a player who had yet to test himself at the very highest level of the game, but he quickly settled into his new surroundings to justify that sizeable fee.

The Red Devils haven't lost a game with Fernandes orchestrating proceedings in the middle of the park, and they could extend their recent unbeaten run to 17 matches in all competitions if they secure an away win against Aston Villa on Thursday.

The 25-year-old has recorded seven goals and six assists in his first 14 outings in United colours, helping Solskjaer's side to re-emerge as top-four contenders and potential FA Cup and Europa League winners.

Ahead of the Red Devils' trip to Villa Park, Solskjaer has talked up Fernandes' impact on the rest of the squad, while also expressing his belief that the ex-Sporting star has benefitted from being around players of the same calibre at Old Trafford.

The Norwegian boss told a press conference: “I think it’s gone both ways. Bruno has come into the club, seen how many good players there are at Manchester United, that we’ve helped him and how his attributes are as well, and it’s been a good little relationship blossoming and he can also feel we help him improve.

"He’s come in and lifted everyone and it’s been a very, very good start so far.”

Another man who has been integral to United's resurgence has been Nemanja Matic, who was rewarded for his recent performances with a new three-year contract on Monday.

The Serbian is now keeping former academy starlet Scott McTominay out of the team, but Solskjaer is confident that the Scotland international can "learn" a great deal from his more experienced team-mate which will hold him in good stead for a more prominent role in the future.

“McTominay is learning from Matic, Scott is still a young boy, seven or eight years younger than Nemanja," the United manager added.

"Nemanja’s been on record saying how much he can see himself in Scott.

"They can bounce off each other, never easy. So many times I’ve said to Nemanja I’m playing Scott today and he accepts it and, the other way around, they accept it, they can play together and I’m sure Scotty will learn from Nemanja. His attributes and the way he’s gone about his job has been great.”

Kieran Tierney says Arsenal players have total belief in Mikel Arteta and insists there is much more to come under the Spaniard.

The Gunners are showing clear signs of improvement under Arteta, who replaced previous head coach Unai Emery in December and has lost just three of his 16 Premier League games in charge so far.

Tuesday night’s 1-1 draw with Leicester City ended a run of four successive victories for Arsenal, but once again there was plenty to be encouraged about in the way they played - especially in the first half when they dominated the Foxes.

And Tierney says the improving form is down to one man.

"The boss," he said. "The boss has been brilliant.

"I think we had a period to work closely and obviously coming back we had a few weeks to work without games.

"We did that, we worked hard every day and continued into the games - the first few results we got weren’t ideal but we are building something here and it isn’t going to happen overnight. 

"I think everybody can see we are progressing well, we have still got a long way to go but we are doing all we can, listening to everything he says and we all believe."

Tuesday night’s draw leaves Arsenal seventh in the Premier League ahead of Sunday’s trip to Tottenham.

It will be Tierney’s first taste of the north London derby as he missed the 2-2 draw at the Emirates Stadium earlier in the season due to injury.

And the Scotland international says he and his team-mates must shrug off the disappointment of dropping points against Leicester as they continue to battle for a Europa League spot.

"It is a massive game for the club and a massive game for the fans," he said.

"We will pick ourselves up, there are positives to take from tonight - we are disappointed about the result and dropping two points but there are still positives and we will pick ourselves up 100 per cent and go again."

Tierney added: "Everybody wants to play European football and wants to finish as high up as we can. 

"Every game now is going to be tough in their own different ways but we look forward to the challenge."

Arsenal will be without Eddie Nketiah for the game at Spurs after the striker’s sending off against Leicester.

With Arsenal still leading thanks to Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s first-half goal, Nketiah was brought on to replace Alexandre Lacazette with 20 minutes remaining but was dismissed just four minutes later for a high lunge on James Justin.

And Leicester took full advantage of their extra man, with Jamie Vardy snatching a point for the visitors with a late equaliser.

"There were positives to take but the dressing room was a bit down with the draw," Tierney added.

"Of course, a red card is always a game-changer, especially against a team like Leicester who keep the ball. 

"We did enough to win the game, getting the second goal would have been crucial. In the changing room we are all down and disappointed and we felt we played well."

Bidvest Wits midfielder Cole Alexander says no team has approached him so far but he “would consider going back” to his former club SuperSport United, if an opportunity comes arises.

After Wits’ Premier Soccer League (PSL) status was sold to GladAfrica Championship side Tshakuma Tsha Madzivhandila, Alexander stated that he is not willing to relocate to Limpopo.

This places the 30-year-old on the transfer market together with other Wits players who are not ready to play for Tshakuma Tsha Madzivhandila next season.

However, Limpopo is not unfamiliar territory for Alexander who has previously spent two seasons at Polokwane City.

As he prefers to remain in Gauteng, the former Ajax Cape Town midfielder says he is open to returning to SuperSport United, a club he says he has “big respect for.”

“Look, SuperSport haven't engaged with me yet and I haven't spoken to Stan Mathews,” Alexander told Sowetan Live.

“Yeah, I have been with SuperSport in the past and I have always said that they are a good club, I enjoyed my time there. I have big respect for the club and I would consider going back if the opportunity comes my way.

“I’m still contracted to Wits and I'm left with one year. So no team has approached me or anything. As players, we want to work and this Covid-19 affected everyone in the country. We are just waiting to return and to play, that's all.”

During his previous stint at SuperSport, Alexander played under Stuart Baxter and then Eric Tinkler, with current Matsatsantsa coach Kaitano Tembo being an assistant coach then.

This makes Tembo aware of the midfielder’s qualities and might consider him for his squad next season. Alexander has spent the last two-and-half seasons at Wits, whom he joined from SuperSport.

This term, the former Chippa United man has so far made 27 appearances for Wits across all competitions, scoring just one goal and making an assist.

Arsenal may decide to offload Mesut Ozil to protect their "next generation" of talent, according to Martin Keown.

After being shut out of Unai Emery's plans in the first half of the 2019-20 campaign, Ozil was restored to the starting line-up when Mikel Arteta inherited the managerial reins in December.

The German midfielder showed flashes of his best form as Arsenal made an unbeaten start to 2020, but the coronavirus outbreak disrupted his progress.

The Premier League was placed on hiatus for three months, and fixtures have been played behind closed doors since the season resumed on June 17.

Ozil has not seen a single minute of action since the restart, with Arteta publicly suggesting that 31-year-old's fitness levels have fallen below the required standard.

Given his reported £350,000 in weekly wages, and the fact he has sat out the Gunners' last seven matches, questions are again being asked over his future at the Emirates Stadium.

Ozil only has one year left to run on his current contract, and Keown expects Arsenal to cut their losses on a divisive figure this summer, so that the club's younger players are not tempted to follow the same example he has set during his time in north London.

Asked if the German still has a future at the Emirates, the former Gunners defender told Stadium Astro: "No, I don’t think he does and I think really this summer now they may see the player being paid off, because I think now it’s about protecting the next generation.

"I think it’s a real shame, because he had a magnificent talent, but if you’re not prepared to work hard out of possession for the team, then you don’t get to play in the new Arsenal at the moment and that’s what Arteta is all about. 

"Work ethic comes first and then everything else is a bonus, you play from there. Clearly he’s not seeing enough on the training pitch."

Keown went on to express his belief that Ozil has been guilty of coasting at Arsenal in recent years while raking in more money than any other player currently on the club's books.

He added: "People go into comfort zones whether they like it or not, they can’t often see it. But, you know, that must have played a part. He’s a millionaire every month, after tax. 

"My attitude to that is every player should get the best contract they can, and if he’s performing he deserves that, but when he doesn’t, it’s very expensive for Arsenal Football Club.

"It maybe sends the complete wrong message to some of those youngsters, he’s had opportunities he hasn’t taken."

Kenyan Premier League (KPL) side Wazito FC have parted ways with Stephen Patrick from Ireland who was hired as the video analyst.

Patrick is the second coach to leave the Kenyan side after head coach Stewart Hall agreed to terminate his contract with the 2018/19 National Super League (NSL) champions.

The Irish analyst was hired in January as Wazito aimed at setting a new standard in the KPL even though the results on the pitch were not impressive.

“Yes, it is true [Stephen] Patrick has left the club. He and Wazito agreed to end their contract mutually,” a close source to the club told Goal on Wednesday.

“I cannot tell whether his contract was long enough to see him return to Wazito for the 2020/21 season but what I know is that he has indeed left.”

The Irish coach arrived at the same time as Augustine Otu, who had been signed from Petroleum Refining Company FC of Liberia after impressive trials with the Nairobi-based side.

Patrick’s arrival coincided with Wazito’s ability to air their matches on their sister Online Television station the Madgoat TV.

His exit comes two days after Hall left the club he had joined in November to take charge after Melis Medo was unceremoniously sacked.

Wazito became the first club to announce the exit of their head coach and the sacking of 11 players before the next campaign begins.

After struggling in the top tier, Wazito were lucky to remain there as they were 13th on the log when the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) ended the league in May due to the coronavirus restrictions.

As Hall departed, citing the need to spend time with the family in the UK, he was satisfied he and his technical team which Patrick was part of, did a good job since they were hired by the club.

“Together with my technical team, we worked really hard, the players did their part and together we managed to get some good results,” the former AFC Leopards coach stated earlier this week.

“Just before the league was stopped by the Covid-19 pandemic, we were unbeaten in almost ten matches and this shows the strides we had made as a team.

“As I depart, I want to thank the club management, the players, the other members of the technical bench, and everyone associated with the club, it was an honour to work with you. I wish the club all the best for the future, I believe I have put in a good foundation to steer the team forward.”

Among the players who have been released at Wazito include Steven Njunge, midfielder Teddy Osok, Victor Ndinya, Pistone Mutamba, Derrick Otanga, Kevin Omondi, Paul Acquah, Piscas Kirenge, Augustine Otu, and Issifou Bourahana.

Like most other major football competitions, the 2019-20 Champions League and Europa League tournaments were drastically impacted by the coronavirus pandemic.

Action is, however, set to resume in August, with UEFA altering the normal structure of each competition in order to fit games into a tight window before the beginning of the 2020-21 season.

The European governing body is gearing up for the knockout round draws in July, but when will they take place and which teams are involved?

Goal brings you everything you need to know about the upcoming Champions League and Europa League draws.

Contents

When are the Champions League & Europa League quarter-final & semi-final draws?

The 2019-20 Champions League and Europa League quarter-final and semi-final draws will be held on Friday July 10.

Proceedings for the Champions League draw will commence at 11am BST (6am ET). The corresponding Europa League draws will take place an hour later at 12 noon BST (7am ET).

Which teams are involved in the Champions League draws?

When the draw is made on July 10, only four teams are confirmed for the quarter-finals. They are: Atalanta, Atletico Madrid, RB Leipzig and Paris Saint-Germain.

The remaining four teams will be the winners of the following ties: Chelsea vs Bayern Munich, Barcelona vs Napoli, Real Madrid vs Manchester City and Juventus vs Lyon.

Which teams are involved in the Europa League draws?

The teams carefully watching the Europa League draw are those involved in the eight last-16 ties. The winners will take their place in the quarter-finals.

Where will the draws take place?

The Champions League and Europa League draws will take place at UEFA's headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland - the customary venue for such events.

How can I watch the draws?

UEFA will stream the draws live on its official website uefa.com - meaning you will be able to follow the proceedings via your computer or tablet device.

You will also be able to follow all the news as it happens, as well as reaction to the draw on Goal's live blog, which will run during the draws on Friday morning into the afternoon.

When & where are the games taking place?

The remaining Champions League last-16 matches will be played on August 7/8, while the Europa League last-16 games will be played on August 5/6.

Due to the public health concerns and delays brought about by the coronavirus pandemic, the Champions League and Europa League will be concluded in mini-tournament format.

So, from the quarter-final stage on in each competition, every game will be a straight knockout tie and games will take place in a single host country.

When will the Champions League mini-tournament take place?

The dates for the Champions League 2019-20 mini knockout tournament are:

Where will the Champions League mini-tournament take place?

The 2019-20 Champions League mini-tournament will be played in Lisbon, Portugal.

Two stadiums will host the remaining quarter-final and semi-final matches: Sporting's Estadio Jose Alvalade and Benfica's Estadio da Luz.

The final will be played at Estadio da Luz.

When will the Europa League mini-tournament take place?

The dates for the Europa League 2019-20 mini knockout tournament are:

Where will the Europa League mini-tournament take place?

The 2019-20 Europa League mini-tournament will be played in venues across four cities in Germany: Gelsenkirchen, Duisburg, Dusseldorf and Cologne.

The stadiums in question are Koln's RheinEnergieStadion, Duisburg's MSV-Arena, Fortuna Dusseldorg's Merkur Spiel-Arena and Schalke's Arena AufSchalke.

Koln's RheinEnergieStadion has been confirmed as the venue for the 2020 Europa League final.

Malaysia U-19 midfielder Umar Hakeem Suhar Rezwan is elated at the chance to return to team training with the team, following the suspension of all footballing activities in the country due to the global Covid-19 pandemic.

Ahead of the 2020 AFC U-19 Championship finals in October later this year, the Young Tigers have begun their first centralised training, on Monday, July 6, albeit in a non-contact manner as stipulated by the country's health ministry.

"I'm thankful that I can train again after months of inactivity, and that I get to meet my teammates again.

"It brought back memories of our times in previous AFC (Asian Football Confederation) and AFF (ASEAN Football Federation), but I have to focus on the task at hand," noted the Mokhtar Dahari Academy graduate in an interview published by the Malaysian FA.

When asked about his main area focus for the time being, the Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) youth player responded that it is the team's mental strength.

"We've all been away from serious practice for long and admittedly the practice we conducted at home was insufficient, so for now I want to focus on my endurance, as well as physical and mental strength. We can compete with boys from other countries in terms of abilities, but it's our mentality that usually makes our job harder. Those of us who tried training on our own at home during the lockdown period will have a slightly easier time in centralised training now.

"The inclusion of the new faces in the camp will also do well to ensure that the more-established squad members do not feel complacent. This competition for places on the final squad is something positive. Everyone will now work harder because they know that the new guys are here because they are good too," explained the 17-year old midfielder.

The 2020 AFC tournament will be held in Uzbekistan, with Malaysia drawn in Group D alongside Qatar, Tajikistan and Yemen.

Javi Martinez is yet to discuss his future with Bayern Munich ahead of his contract expiring in 2021, Goal can confirm.

Reports in Germany have suggested the 31-year-old Spanish midfielder, who has spent the last eight seasons with the Bundesliga champions, had agreed to leave the club this summer.

However, Goal and SPOX can confirm that no talks have taken place and that no decision has been made over his future.

It would mean Bayern, should they not want to offer an extended contract to a player now in his 30s, would have to sell Martinez this summer if they wish to receive a transfer fee.

The player himself is not pushing for an exit despite playing a reduced role this campaign as Bayern claimed an unprecedented eighth successive German league title.

It is understood that Martinez is enjoying working with Bayern head coach Hansi Flick, and if fellow Spanish midfielder Thiago Alcantara leaves the club this summer, a first-team berth could open up for him again.

It has been claimed that Thiago may be seeking a new challenge away from Bavaria, and has been heavily linked with a move to Premier League champions Liverpool.

Martinez made just six Bundesliga starts in the 2019-20 campaign as Flick's side won the title by a sizeable 13-point margin.

He has suffered with injuries in the past year, most recently missing Bayern's DFB-Pokal final victory over Bayer Leverkusen because of a gastrointestinal infection.

In spite of a reduced role in the last year, Martinez has enjoyed a hugely successful eight-year spell with Munich since joining from Athletic Club in 2012 for €40 million (£35m/$45m), winning 19 major trophies.

Martinez spoke to Marca about his future in June, claiming he was in no rush to leave Bayern: "What I have experienced here was great. We have to wait because there is a lot of uncertainty.

"We do not know whether there will be a transfer market or whether the Champions League will be played [due to the coronavirus pandemic]."

He did, however, admit to considering his options and said he would be open to a return to his old club: "I am open to everything that fulfils me personally and physically. I could live and play in the USA, in Australia, or return to Spain.

"I had six unbelievable years in Bilbao. Of course it is an option."

Lothar Matthaus says it is possible for Kai Havertz to complete a move to Bayern Munich this summer, but only if Thiago Alcantara and David Alaba are moved on.

Bayern have been heavily linked with Bayer Leverkusen's talismanic playmaker throughout the 2019-20 campaign.

Havertz has enjoyed another superb individual season at Bay Arena, helping Peter Bosz's side finish fifth in the Bundesliga while also reaching the DFB-Pokal final.

The 21-year-old scored against the Bavarians last time out but couldn't prevent Leverkusen from falling to a 4-2 defeat in the final domestic clash of the season.

That outing could also end up being Havertz's last game for the club, should he decide to leave when the summer transfer window reopens.

Indeed, as reported by Goal, Chelsea are in pole position to sign the German, with a number of rival suitors put off by the €100 million (£90m/$112m) price tag being placed on him.

Bayern, meanwhile, have a history of poaching the best young talent from their Bundesliga rivals and Thomas Muller has already publicly endorsed a potential transfer for his fellow countryman.

And Matthaus expects Havertz to leave if a "bigger club" comes in for him, with Leverkusen seemingly open to selling should they receive the fee they want.

The Bayern legend told Sky Germany: "If an even bigger club than Leverkusen puts the money on the table that [Rudi] Voller and the Leverkusen team want for Havertz, then this summer is certain for me (for Havertz to leave), because the boy understandably wants to take the next step." 

The German champions have already forked out €60 million (£54m/$68m) to lure Leroy Sane to Allianz Arena from Manchester City.

Matthaus says Bayern CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge is well aware that funds for another big-money coup will be limited after the Sane deal, but that the club's finances could be boosted if Thiago and David Alaba are sold - amid rumoured interest from a host of Premier League clubs.

"He (Rummenigge) knows exactly what (any deal for Havertz) would cost - and that is not possible now after the Sane transfer," Matthaus added.

"If Thiago and David Alaba should leave the club, Bayern would get high transfer fees and save on the salaries of both of them. Then maybe it could be enough to acquire a mega-talent."

Rafael van der Vaart has advised compatriot Donny van de Beek to join Borussia Dortmund or Bayern Munich, should he leave Ajax this summer.

The midfielder has been heavily linked with Manchester United and Real Madrid, however, Van der Vaart would prefer to see him ply his trade in Germany.

"In my opinion, Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund would be great clubs for him," said Van der Vaart in the Amsterdam daily newspaper Trouw.

There has been no suggestion of concrete interest in Van de Beek from either of the Bundesliga giants, while there were reports in the Netherlands before the coronavirus crisis that Real Madrid had agreed a €55 million (£50m/$62m) fee with Ajax for the 23-year-old playmaker.

Van der Vaart, who played for Real Madrid during a career which also included spells with Hamburg and Tottenham, admits that when the Spanish giants come calling it is hard to turn them down.

"If Real knocks, what should you wait for? If the club really wants you, it will get you too," he said

"Many people advise him [Van de Beek] to stay with Ajax for another year and play a good European Championship with the national team. None of them understand how difficult it is to turn down a club like Real Madrid."

However Van der Vaart warned that the pressure of expectation will be much bigger on Van de Beek at Madrid than it currently is in Amsterdam, and used a Dutch international team-mate of the young star as a warning example.

He said: "The only thing that counts in Spain is winning a title. That brings a lot of pressure and you also need a bit of luck. We also thought that Frenkie de Jong was perfect for Barcelona, and at the moment it doesn't look that way anymore."

De Jong moved to Barcelona from Ajax last summer in a much-hyped €75m (£68m/$85m) move, but has not produced his best form at Camp Nou in a turbulent season at the Catalan club.

Van de Beek scored eight goals and provided six assists in 23 Eredivisie matches for Ajax in 2019-20, before the season was abandoned with no champion declared because of coronavirus.

Daniel James will not be sent out on loan next season, according to his agent Jonathan Barnett, who says the Welsh winger is now a "major part" of Manchester United.

James became Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's first signing as United's permanent head coach in June 2019.

The Red Devils paid £15 million ($19m) to secure his services from Swansea, where he had emerged as one of the brightest young talents in the Championship.

The 22-year-old committed to a five-year contract at Old Trafford and hit the ground running in the Premier League, scoring on his debut as Solskjaer's men earned a 4-0 victory against Chelsea at the start of the new season.

James scored two more goals in his next three outings for United, before a frustrating scoreless run spanning the next six months.

The Wales international's last goal came during a 5-0 Europa League win over LASK in March, which marked the Red Devils' final outing before the coronavirus-enforced break in the campaign.

James has been reduced to a bit-part role in Solskjaer's squad since the top flight's resumption last month, with Mason Greenwood emerging as the Norwegian's first choice on the right of a front three.

It has been suggested that the former Swansea ace could secure a temporary move away from Manchester this summer for regular minutes, but Barnett is adamant he will be staying put.

Asked if there is any chance of James being loaned out when the transfer window reopens, his agent told Stretty News: “No. He’s a major part of Man United’s team. I see him playing for Man United.”

Barnett went on to insist that the Welshman has the "character" to fight for a place in United's line up, and that he is still developing at a "normal" rate despite a recent loss of form.

He added: "I think if you don’t have that character you shouldn’t go to Man United. We as a company have a responsibility to help them and point these things out and in Dan’s case, it was obvious he has that character.

“I think if you asked generally the people at Manchester United and I am presuming, I haven’t spoken to them but they would be very pleased with his progress.

“It’s very normal with a young player that he has a little dip in his form at the same time that the other guys have done extremely well, so he’ll have to wait his chance and when he gets it, he’ll take it.”

VP Suhair is set to be signed by Indian Super League (ISL) outfit NorthEast United, Goal can confirm. 

The forward was an integral member of Kibu Vicuna's Mohun Bagan that went on to lift the I-League title. He made 16 appearances for the Mariners, notching up 1273 minutes during the campaign. He scored twice and assisted on two other occassions.  

In fact, he started all the I-League game under Kibu Vicuna at Bagan. Suhair was linked with a potential move to Kerala Blasters but NorthEast assistant coach Khalid Jamil has moved to secure the services of the striker.

Overall he made more than 30 appearances for Bagan including the Calcutta Football League (CFL) and Durand Cup. 

Suhair started his career with the SBT (State Bank of Travancore) team and then joined Gokulam Kerala after playing in the Santosh Trophy team for South Indian state. 

After representing Kerala in the Santosh Trophy, he joined United SC in the second division. While at the West Bengal club, he scored against East Bengal in the Calcutta Football League (CFL). Subsequently, he joined the Red and Golds in 2017. 

NorthEast United have already signed Ponif Vaz, Gurjinder Kumar, Lalkhawpuimawia & Rochharzela for the 2020-21 season. 

Ugandan Premier League (UPL) side Police FC have unveiled their second signing ahead of the new season after sealing the transfer of Hassan Muhamood from Onduparaka FC.

Muhamood is arriving at the ‘Cops’ just a day after the club secured the services of former Uganda Cranes midfielder Tony Mawejje on a two-year contract.

“We are pleased to announce the signing of defender Hassan Muhamood from Onduparaka on a two-year deal,” Police confirmed on their social media pages.

“He becomes our second signing of the ongoing transfer window after Tony Mawejje returned at the club.”

Speaking after unveiling the player, club chairman Asan Kasingye said: “Muhamood brings energy to boost our defence and we are excited to have him. We are rebuilding our club to make sure that we become a formidable force like we used to.

“We sorted out technical issues and now we are engaging all our efforts to make sure we have a good team.”

Kasingye further called upon the club fraternity to remain together as one family as they strive to do better in the new season.

“We call upon our fans and the team to remain together as we continue doing everything possible to make sure we compete at the highest level,” Kasingye continued.

“This is the time to build structures and reclaim our glory.”

On signing for the Law Enforcers, Muhamood said: “I am so happy to join Police. It’s a new challenge for me as a player and I am going to do my best so we go back at the top. I am looking forward to meeting the players and coaches.”

Before joining Police, Muhamood had also featured for UPL giants Express FC and SC Villa.

On Tuesday, after unveiling Mawejje, chairman Kasingye promised to beef up the squad that will be able to challenge for top honours in Uganda.

 “We no longer just want to compete; we need to win trophies. We are former champions and its time to think big,” Kasingye said earlier.

“Football is a big enterprise in the world that doesn’t entertain mediocrity. We need to do the right thing like other clubs.”

Kasingye added it was the right time for the team to secure sponsors because Police are a big organisation and many people want to be part of it.

Young Africans (Yanga SC) coach Luc Eymael has revealed his main target for the season is to make sure they finish second in the Mainland Premier League table and also lift the FA Cup.

The Jangwani Street-based giants lost the second spot on the 20-team table last Sunday after Azam FC hammered Singida United 7-0 to move to 61 points, one more than Yanga.

However, with four matches remaining to the end of the season, the Belgian coach has stressed the importance of finishing second, insisting it is the target he has set for his players and they must strive to achieve it.

“My target for the season still remains the same, we must finish second behind Simba and there is no short cut about that,” Eymael told Goal on Wednesday as they prepare for their league match against Kagera Sugar on Thursday.

“I am not asking too much from the players because when I joined the team, Simba SC had already opened a huge gap which no team could have breached, even if we fought and fought the gap was too huge, but now we have managed to move close, last week we were in position two before dropping points against Biashara United.

“We managed a draw from Biashara but the pitch was also not good for my players, they struggled to play the kind of game we would love to play and again tomorrow [Thursday] we face Kagera in another tough pitch but my prayers is we get a win from the match.

“The other target, of course, is to make sure we reach the final of the domestic Cup and lift the trophy, but first things first, we play against Kagera next, a side which beat us 3-0 in the first round fixture, it was my first match in charge of Yanga and they showed me no mercy.

“I will definitely want my players to revenge again for me, we beat them a week ago in the domestic Cup and we must make sure we get maximum points from them, they are a good side, with a solid display but we managed to beat them in the FA Cup and we can also beat them in the league.”

Asked on whether returning player Bernard Morrison will face Kagera, Eymael said: “I will know before the match, but he has trained with us very well and he wants to play, I will look at him again before I make the decision.”

Yanga will then face rivals Simba SC in the semi-finals of the domestic Cup at National Stadium in Dar es Salaam on Sunday.