Rio Ferdinand says he has reassessed his approach to the game as he prepares to make his comeback following an eight-month ban.

Ferdinand will be available for Manchester United’s game against Liverpool after being suspended for missing a drugs test.

He said: "I haven’t always been responsible - the obvious example being the situation I’m in now - but that will change.

"The concentration on my job is total and I will take nothing for granted, either getting back in the United team or playing for England." (The Sun)

**************

Jose Mourinho has dismissed Arsenal’s 100 per cent start to the season, insisting the Gunners have had it easy.

The Chelsea boss, now two points behind Arsene Wenger’s men in the title race, said: "We have had a much more difficult start than them.

"If we are within one or two points of them in November or December, we have a fighting chance to challenge them." (Daily Mirror)

**************

David O’Leary has opened talks with Aston Villa about a new contract and warned the board it will take £30m to bring European football back to the club for the first time in more than 20 years. (Daily Express)

O’Leary has apparently laid out a five-year plan to turn Villa into one of the top clubs in the country and has told the board they will need to invest in at least five top players during that period.

"This is not an ultimatum from me, but I know what I would like to do here, what it will cost, and how exciting the old place could become," said O’Leary.

**************

Mark Hughes began life as Premiership manager yesterday and revealed how he decided to swap Wales for Blackburn Rovers following a phone conversation with his mentor, Sir Alex Ferguson.

Hughes, who has signed a two-year contract at Ewood Park, said: "I spoke to Sir Alex about the matter.

"It was a private conversation but he was very supportive. He said to me that he thought it was time for me to make the move." (Daily Mail)

**************

Iain Dowie has shrugged off speculation over his delay in signing a new contract with Crystal Palace and expects to sign soon.

The Palace boss has stalled in accepting the four-year deal on offer, but he insists his commitment has never been in question despite the club’s winless start to the season.

Dowie said: "My commitment has been unequivocal and will continue to be so.

"The delay in the contract has been over some small issues. It’s just not quite ready but I don’t envisage there being any problems." (Daily Express)