SHORT CORNER

No tensions with Mourinho, says Martial

Anthony Martial insists he has never had a particularly tense relationship with Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho.

There have been long-standing rumours of discontent, with Martial's agent even claiming in June that he was looking to leave the club. But Martial, who has played in six of United's nine Premier League games in 2018-19, has dismissed talk that he does not get on with his manager.

"Things were not tense between us to begin with," the 22-year-old said to reporters following the 2-2 draw with Chelsea. "We have a player-coach relationship and I hope that we will continue like that and bring Manchester United as much as possible."

The former Monaco man also said he hopes their improving performances will stand them in good stead against Juventus in the Champions League on Tuesday.

"We were not doing well," he said. "However, this match enabled us to show that we are a good team. We want to continue against Juventus."         -- Agencies

Our heads were in Manchester, fumes Allegri

Massimiliano Allegri accused his players of being distracted by their looming Champions League clash with Manchester United as they lost their 100 per cent start in Serie A against Genoa on Saturday.

“We played with our heads in Manchester. We had to win. We went from frantic to sleeping."

However, Allegri hoped the lack of concentration would serve as a warning going forward.

"It [the goal] was coming; we could see it from the touchline. I think it'll be good for us. Everyone will now remember that nothing can be taken for granted." -- Agencies

Valverde 'doesn't 'care' about future

Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde said he does not care about an extension as he dismissed speculation over his future with the LaLiga champions.

“My future at Barca does not matter to me, I do not care," said Valverde. "I'm focused on the two matches that come and the noise that there is always around the team is the usual and you cannot do anything."      -- Agencies