Thierry Henry last night warned title rivals Chelsea and Manchester United to write off Arsenal at their peril. (Daily Mirror)

Arsene Wenger has seen his preparations disrupted by Real Madrid’s pursuit of Patrick Vieira and faces a battle to keep his inspirational captain.

But Henry insists Arsenal will once again rise to the challenge as they relish being written out of the title race.

He said: "I always say when you give Arsenal stick we always answer. We still have a great desire to win."

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Sir Bobby Robson aims to take his summer spending spree at Newcastle to £12.5million by landing Portugal star Miguel, according to The Sun.

Robson has reportedly made a £5million bid for the Benfica defender.

It appears that Miguel is now set to join Robson’s other close-season signings James Milner, Patrick Kluivert and Nicky Butt.

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Real Madrid have finally come clean about their plan to sign Patrick Vieira from Arsenal.

But Real’s Director of Football Emilio Butragueno admits time is running out to sign the £35million-rated Gunners skipper.

He said: "Yes, he’s very important for us and our club. We’re not there yet. I think this week will be decisive - it’s a long process." (The Sun)

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Several papers speculate that David Moyes could be the first Premiership managerial casualty - before the season has even started if Paul Gregg emerges triumphant from his bitter power struggle with chairman Bill Kenwright.

A decision on the future of the club will be made on Friday with Moyes aware of the stark repercussions that would follow a victory for Gregg.

Moyes has developed a close working relationship with Kenwright and could decide to walk away from the club should the theatre impresario resign rather than run the risk of his reputation being tarnished.

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Portsmouth chairman Milan Mandaric has blasted Fulham boss Chris Coleman for stealing Senegal midfielder Papa Diop from under his nose.

Diop, 26, had agreed personal terms with Pompey manager Harry Redknapp on a £1.5million switch from Lens before accepting an improved offer from Fulham.

"This is totally unprofessional on the part of their manager," raged Mandaric. "It is an indecent situation." (Daily Star)