ATLETCIO DISAPPOINTED

Atletico Madrid were extremely disappointed during the weekend after they could only manage a 1-1 draw with Villarreal, which has put them at a disadvantage in the league table. Diego Simeone’s have been one of the surprise packages of the season, as they have made a great start to the campaign. Even though they sold their top scorer Radamel Falcao in the summer, Simeone has been able to find replacement in the form of Diego Costa. Summer signing David Villa has also been able to score on a regular basis to help Atletico to a great start.

They were left disappointed during the weekend after dropping two points, which has left them three points behind table leaders Barcelona. Atletico Madrid have been touted as the surprise title challengers this term, but this result leaves them with much to do even though it is only three points. After the match, Simeone said that his team did not have their usual creativity, but he praised the work of the team in the defence. Mario’s own goal in the second minute appeared to set Atletico on their way to yet another victory, but they were held back by Uche’s goal in the 79th minute.

The away team created chances, but it was not to their usual high standards. “We came up against a team that plays very well and is in a good place. In defence we did very well. They had no clear chances but they did control possession. In the second half we were better but it is an important result against a side also vying for a Champions League spot. We took a lot out and struggled to find our rhythm and space, while Villarreal kept a hold of the ball very well,” said the Atletico Madrid manager, who has received a lot of praise for his work this season.

Bale Injury Saga

Gareth Bale’s stint on the sidelines doesn’t look over after Real Madrid were forced to deny suggestions in Spanish newspaper Marca that their record signing has a slipped disk.

Bale has failed to make an impact in La Liga since his €100m transfer from Spurs last month, largely due to an injured foot and pulled hamstring. Frustration is growing among Madrid fans, many of who are desperate to see their new Galactico in action.

WIGAN SIGN MCLEAN

Wigan Athletic have announced the signing of Sunderland winger James McLean, who has been brought to the club for around £ 1 million. Manager Owen Coyle has revealed that the player took a wage cut in order to complete the move, which is something that does not happen often in football. He has said that players are often motivated by money, but McLean wanted to play football more than anything else. Sunderland could not guarantee McLean a regular first-team place, and the 24-year-old Republic of Ireland winger has decided to move south.

McLean has been signed in time to be included in the squad as they prepare to take on Manchester United in the community shield. Wigan managed to win the opening game of the season 4-0 against Barnsley. The club was relegated from the Premier league after eight years in the top flight. They have sold some key players already, but signings like McLean promises to help the club be a promotion challenger this season. Coyle has revealed that the history of the player, which has been littered with several outbursts and incidents, did not bother him because he thinks that the player is now mature.

He thinks that McLean can be a real difference to Wigan’s play this season.

“He took a drop in salary to come here, such was his desire to play football. That was fantastic. All too often in football, finance is the motivation for some players. We have all done silly things as young men. The bottom line is, having had a chat with him I know he is focused and just wants to concentrate on his football. If we get James McClean doing that, there is no doubt he is a huge talent,” said the manager, who was appointed as the replacement for Roberto Martinez.