Manchester United believe Rio Ferdinand will fire up their season in the same way Eric Cantona did after his ban.

Ferdinand’s eight-month ban for missing a drugs test is over and he is available to play against Liverpool tonight.

Phil Neville can see the centre-back kick-starting their season. He said: "Rio coming back will lift everyone. Now we can look forward to having a great player back in the side.

"The moment Eric Cantona came back, a big black cloud was lifted from around the club and we went on to win the Double the following season."

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Argentinian legend Diego Maradona claims Arsenal are the best team in Europe.

"I do like Arsenal a lot, they're the best in Europe," said the former Argentina skipper.

Maradona, who is recovering from drug addiction, compares Gunners ace Thierry Henry with himself. He said: "Thierry Henry is a 'Maradonian' player." (Daily Mail)

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Ryan Giggs will become the third player in Manchester United history to make 600 appearances when he lines up against Liverpool tonight.

Giggs follows Sir Bobby Charlton (759 games) and Bill Foulkes (688) in the club’s roll of honour.

"It’s a marvellous achievement," said Sir Alex Ferguson. "He’s a fantastic person who has never given me a bit of bother. He’s an example to all the players here." (Daily Mirror)

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Jose Mourinho launched a furious attack on Spurs as Chelsea blew their chance to join Arsenal at the top of the Premiership.

The Chelsea chief accused Tottenham of time-wasting, negative tactics and having small-team mentality after their goal-less draw at Stamford Bridge.

Mourinho said: "It was frustrating for me and for every fan because people do not pay money to see one team play and another team defend, kick balls away, fall down, demand medical help and take five minutes to sub a player." (The Sun)