So, apparently Barcelona were *this* close to adding Pirlo to Xavi and Iniesta and keeping the ball forever: http://www.theguardian.com/football/2014/apr/15/andrea-pirlo-pep-guardiola-tried-to-sign-me-barcelona-autobiography

Some great lines in there.

Meanwhile, scrappy cup contenders Arsenal need a win tonight to help secure North London's Europa League participation for next year. Unfortunately for them, they face Roger Johnson and the Relegators in a rare moment of relaxation. Expect ole football to finally return to the Emirates.

Not to mention that the Geordie samurai received this boost to his England credentials from the only man whose opinion really matters: http://kumb.com/story.php?id=127462

Game on.