Luiz ‘play me’ plea to Conte
JACK WILSHERE says no contract talks have started with Arsenal.
Manager Arsene Wenger had indicated discussions would begin this month on a new deal for the England midfielder, right.
But Wilshere said: “We’re in the same position as two weeks ago but I’m sure the boss will call me and we’ll have a chat.” DAVID LUIZ has had clear-the-air talks with Chelsea coach Antonio Conte but has told the Italian he wants his place back.
Luiz was dropped after a disagreement with Conte over tactics following Chelsea’s Champions League defeat by Roma in October and for his reaction to being taken off in the home game against the Italians.
The centre-back has played only once since and picked up a knee injury but could return to face Southampton at home tomorrow. Luiz, 30, has been linked with moves to Manchester United and Real Madrid and the next month will be crucial to his future at Stamford Bridge.
Express Sport understands Luiz and Conte met this week and the manager told the defender he wants him back in his team. Luiz, however, insisted he wants regular first-team football.
A source close to Luiz said: “David wants to play. He is waiting to see what happens.” FA of Wales chief executive Jonathan Ford has apologised for saying the national team’s next manager could be foreign but “definitely not English”. But Ford, left, will not be disciplined by the governing body after they decided his comments were taken out of context. Wales are hoping to appoint Chris Coleman’s successor next month.
BOURNEMOUTH have been granted planning permission by Poole Council for a new £10million training ground on a 57-acre site with 13 pitches.