Bayern express: Robben trains in squad, Ribéry cleared?
Arjen Robben returned to regular team training with FC Bayern on Wednesday, Franck Ribéry should cleared from charges in Paris and non-news about a transfer were finally denied firmly by Dante.
First things first: it looks good for a Robben return soon after the winter break. The Flying Dutchman has trained with the team, a most welcome piece of news.
Friday’s game may be too early for a guy who returns from injury. It sounds smarter, at least to me, to play Shaqiri on the right wing and let Robben play as a sub whenever he is ready for a few minutes of action.
Ribéry discharged?
At the beginning of his trial (without his presence) in front of the Correctional Court of Paris, Franck Ribéry received the best possible news from the prosecution.
The French State asked the judge to scrap the charge against him (and his international teammate Karim Benzema) of soliciting an underage prostitute. The reason put forward was simple: the accusation cannot prove awareness that the young woman was underage.
I’m not a lawyer, but when the prosecution asks a judge to drop charges, it looks good for the person facing trial.
Now, on to a look at non-news.
Dante in Munich to stay
Dante finally slammed the door shut on an ill-reported intention to move to Manchester United. Some media, which don’t deserve being cited, had hinted that the fact that he was flattered by ManU’s alledged interest meant he would sign a contract.
He rubbished it by saying to newspaper Abendzeitung that it wouldn’t happen. In fact, he’s more likely to extend his contract if FCB wants to keep him. Something we definitely are looking forward to, especially if his play improves.
End of non-story.