Sir Alex previews QPR, Mancini talks about the title race, a preview of the upcoming MLS weekend, and much more lead today’s top stories. Links for all stories below will open in a new window.

Sir Alex says Manchester United won’t take QPR lightly (Guardian.co.uk)

Alex McCleish confident Aston Villa will avoid relegation (Guardian.co.uk)

Bolton and USA midfielder Stuart Holden unlikely to return this season (bwfc.co.uk)

A preview of this weekend’s MLS matches (MLSSoccer.com)

Mancini gives his thoughts on the EPL title race (thesun.co.uk)

An interview with Real Madrid’s Cristiano Ronaldo (ESPNSoccernet.com)

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Jonathan Spector has played his entire professional career in England. The defender/midfielder started out with Manchester United before settling wit West Ham United and then signing for Birmingham City last summer. I recently was able to submit through questions through e-mail to Spector asking him about his time at Birmingham, other Americans playing in England, USMNT, and playing in MLS.

The full interview is below.

Jonathan Spector Interview

The 90th Minute: How has the transition from West to Birmingham been?

Jonathan Spector: The transition from West Ham to Birmingham City has been an easy one.  The players and staff have played in big part in making me feel at home.  It is a good group of players, and I’m happy to have made the move.

The 90th Minute: What’s the atmosphere like at St Andrews on a matchday?

Jonathan Spector: The supporters have been right behind us all season during both the Championship and Europa League matches which makes for a great atmosphere at St. Andrews.  We are unbeaten at home and that is certainly a credit to the fans as well as the team.

The 90th Minute: What are the goals for Birmingham this season?

Jonathan Spector: Our main objective is to earn promotion back into the Premier League, either through automatic promotion or the playoffs.

The 90th Minute: What’s been the key to Birmingham doing well in the Europa League and in position to move to the knockout stage heading into the final Group Stage match? (this was asked before last matchday and answered after last matchday)

Jonathan Spector: Having narrowly missed out on advancing to the knockout stages of the Europa League was a bitter disappointment.  We finished with 10 points in the group which typically is enough to see you through.  I think the team enjoyed the challenge of playing a different type of opposition from what we are used to in England.  It certainly was a great experience for us all, but now our sole focus can be on the league.

The 90th Minute: In the last few years, you’ve played as a defender and midfielder, which do you prefer and do you approach a match differently based on that (if you’re defender or midfielder)?

Jonathan Spector: I prefer playing in a central midfield role which I have done the majority of this season at Birmingham.  However, due to my versatility I’m happy to play as a defender if the manager feels that is what’s best for the team.  Although my job during the match is different depending on the position I’m playing, I approach the game in the same way.  And, that is ultimately to do what is needed to win.

The 90th Minute: Do you regularly talk with other Americans playing in England (Dempsey, Friedel, Howard, Holden)?

Jonathan Spector: I do keep in touch with other Americans that are playing in England.  You mentioned a few guys, but I also stay in touch with Brad Guzan and Eric Lichaj especially since they are both in Birmingham.

The 90th Minute: Do you regularly talk with other Americans playing in England (Dempsey, Friedel, Howard, Holden)?

Jonathan Spector: Jurgen Klinsmann has brought a new approach to the US National Team.  The team is playing a more expansive and attacking style of soccer.  He is open to different and new ideas and has put an emphasis on trying to improve each individual as well as the team collectively.

The 90th Minute: Would you like to finish your career in Major League Soccer?

Jonathan Spector: I do have an interest in playing in the MLS at some stage in my career.  I would like to experience it as I’ve spent my entire professional career in England, but at this point in time I’d like to continue playing in Europe.

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The European season is several months old with several Americans have productive seasons for their clubs. Those who have done well include Maurice Edu for Rangers and Jozy Altidore at AZ Alkmaar.

A brief recap of each player’s performance his below along with a letter grade.

Americans Abroad Early Season Review – 15 November 2011

Jozy Altidore (AZ Alkmaar) - It’s been a very productive start for Jozy who has scored 10 goals in 19 appearances. His confidence has showed during international matches and he could attract offers from clubs in the winter transfer window. Grade: A

Sacha Kljestan (Anderlecht) – He’s struggled to get regular playing time but has two assists in four Europa League matches. Overall, Kljestan needs to get more consistent playing time if he wants to improve at the international level. Grade: C+

Clint Dempsey (Fulham) – Deuce has continued his great career with the London club. Unlike last season, he’s played more often in his wide midfield role instead of up front. He has three goals in the EPL and two in the Europa League this season. Grade: B+

Oguchi Onyewu (Sporting Lisbon) – Gooch has played sporadically for Sporting with only four starts in league play. He has slowly started to return to his form of recent years but needs regular playing time. It’s been a so-so stint at Sporting this season. Grade: C+

Steve Cherundolo (Hannover 96) – The veteran defender has had to deal with injuries this summer/fall but continues to be a significant contributor for his club team. He’s helped Hannover to a good start in the Bundesliga and an unbeaten record in the Europa League group stage. Grade: B

Jermaine Jones (Schalke 04) – After failing to secure a permanent move to Blackburn, he’s returned to Schalke for this season. It didn’t start out particularly well for Jones but has started the last four Bundesliga matches. He has no goals or assists but that can be misleading with his defensive central midfield position. Grade: B-

Jonathan Spector (Birmingham) – The defender has fit in with the Championship side after his contract with West Ham ended. Despite being in the second tier of English football, Birmingham is in position to make it to the knockout stage of the Europa League. Grade: B

Stuart Holden (Bolton) – The midfielder’s return from injury ended quickly in September after a Carling Cup match. He’s missed almost the entire season and could return sometime in early 2012. Grade: n/a due to injury

Tim Howard (Everton) – The number one USA goalkeeper has made 27 saves in 10 EPL matches. As usual, Everton has been off to a slow start but it hasn’t been Howard’s problems. Grade: B+

Brad Friedel (Tottenham) – The 40 year old has arguably been the best goalkeeper in the EPL for the last several seasons. Friedel has moved from Aston Villa to Tottenham and enjoyed immediate success. Spurs are contending for a top 4 spot and Friedel has made 46 saves. Grade: A

Eric Lichaj (Aston Villa) – The young defender has only played in one match this season (Carling Cup). At age 22, Lichaj could move on a loan deal in the winter to get more playing time or benefit if there are injuries. Grade: n/a due to lack of playing time

Timmy Chandler (Nuremburg) -

Carlos Bocanegra (Rangers) – The USA captain joined Scottish side Rangers during the summer transfer window. He’s helped Rangers build a 12 points lead in the SPL with a 12-2-0 record. Grade: A

Michael Bradley (Chievo Verona) – The midfielder has been a consistent started since joining the Serie A side. He hasn’t scored any goals but does have an assist and made an impact. Grade: B+

Maurice Edu (Rangers) – Mo has been a solid presence in midfield with two goals and an assist in league play. As Rangers have had financial problems, Edu could be sold in the winter transfer window to an EPL side. Grade: A

Alejandro Bedoya (Rangers) – Since joining Rangers in the summer transfer window, he’s played in five league matches. Bedoya has yet to earn a start this season and will likely get more playing time as the season progresses. Grade: C+

Edson Buddle (FC Ingolstadt) – He’s had a up and down season with five goals in eight league (2 Bundesliga) matches. Ingolstadt is in danger of relegation as they are last in the table and have conceded 36 goals through 14 matches. As Buddle showed in MLS, he’s a streaky goalscorer and could look for a transfer to a Bundesliga side. Grade: B+

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It was a busy day for Americans with several playing significant time in Europa League group stage matches on September 29, 2011. Below is a recap including AZ’s Jozy Altidore scoring against Metalist Kharkiv.

Americans Abroad In The Europa League – 29 September 2011

Jozy Altidore

Clint Dempsey

Sacha Kljestan

Oguchi Onyewu

Steve Cherundolo

Jermaine Jones

Jonathan Spector

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Charlie Davies, who is under contract with French Ligue 1 side Sochaux, has agreed to a season long loan deal with MLS side DC United. Davies was on a trial with DC United, who wanted to see if he was physically fit before agreeing to the loan. He impressed during his short time and will be with the club for the 2011 MLS season. Below are statements from the front club on the deal.

“We are really pleased to have concluded a deal that will bring Charlie to United,” said General Manager Dave Kasper. “Charlie spent 10 days with us in our first pre-season camp and underwent a full battery of physical and medical testing. He simply looks terrific. Coming in, we weren’t sure where he would be, but he’s great physically, has impressed with his mental approach and we’re excited to see him on the field with us this season.”

“Charlie Davies is going to be a great addition to this club,” said United Head Coach Ben Olsen. “He is a player that can make a difference, and we are looking forward to seeing him contribute to the Black-and-Red.”

I’m extremely excited about the opportunity to play for D.C. United and to put on that shirt,” said Davies. “I remember watching MLS as a kid and seeing D.C. United as the top team in the League. This is a dream to be able to play for such a prominent organization.”

“The club’s fans don’t need any introduction,” Davies continued. “Everyone knows how passionate they are and how much joy they bring to the game and I’m excited to play for them. This past week in Florida has shown me how great the atmosphere around the team is, and I know this is a place where I can be successful. This is a group of guys that is very close, and I’m excited to be a part of it. Ben is a coach that will push me and get the most out of me, and the ultimate goal is to help this team turn it around for this upcoming season and to put D.C. United on the map.”

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It was a mixed weekend for Americans Abroad with Carlos Bocanegra scoring for St Etienne but Clint Dempsey missing a penalty in England. Below is a recap of several players from the top European leagues for the weekend of February 13th through February 15th.

English Premier League

Clint Dempsey (Fulham) – He earned a late penalty kick but had it saved as Fulham were held to a scoreless draw with Chelsea. Overall, he’s still having a great season and is Fulham’s top scorer for the season.

Stuart Holden (Bolton) – He continues to perform well in a central midfield position as Bolton won 2-0 at home against Everton.

Tim Howard (Everton) – He made one save in the 0-2 loss at Bolton.

Brad Friedel (Aston Villa) – He had no saves in a 1-1 draw with Blackpool.

Jonathan Spector (West Ham) – He played the final 12 minutes in a 3-3 come from behind draw at West Brom.

Marcus Hahnemann (Wolves) – He was on the bench for the 0-2 loss at Arsenal.

Jermaine Jones (Blackburn) – He played the full match in a 0-0 draw against Newcastle.

Michael Bradley (Aston Villa) – He played 27 minutes in the 1-1 draw with Blackpool.

English Championship

Eddie Johnson (Preston North End) – He played the full match in a 0-1 loss at Hull City.

Brad Guzan (Hull City) – He made four saves in a 1-0 win over Preston North End.

Mike Grella (Leeds United) – He didn’t suit up in the 2-0 win at Bristol City.

Eric Lichaj (Leeds United) – He joined Leeds on a short term loan and played 90 minutes in a 2-0 win at Bristol City.

German Bundesliga

Steve Cherundolo (Hannover 96) – He played the full match in a 1-1 draw at Werder Bremen.

DaMarcus Beasley (Hannover 96) – He didn’t suit up for the 1-1 draw with Werder Bremen.

Ricardo Clark (Eintracht Frankfurt) – He remains sidelined with an injury and didn’t suit up for the 0-3 loss against Leverkusen.

Germany Bundesliga 2

Edson Buddle (FC Ingolstadt) – He played 65 minutes in a 3-1 loss at Fortuna Duss.

Scottish Premier League

Maurice Edu (Rangers) – He played the final 20 minutes in a 6-0 win against Motherwell.

French Ligue 1

Carlos Bocanegra (St Etienne) – He scored his second goal in Ligue 1 this season in a 1-4 loss against Lyon.

Dutch Eredivisie

Oguchi Onyewu (FC Twente Enschede) – He played the full match in a 1-0 win at Vitesse Arnhem.

Belgian Jupiler League

Sacha Kljestan (Anderlecht) - He was a late substitute in a 1-0 win over Cercle Brugge.

Turkish Super Lig

Jozy Altidore (Bursaspor) – He played 77 minutes in his debut since joining the club on loan. While he didn’t score, he did impress for the club and should get regular playing time.

Turkish Second Division

Freddy Adu (Rizespor) – He didn’t suit up in a scoreless draw with Kayseri Erciyesspor.

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Once again, Clint Dempsey scored this weekend in the EPL and now has a career high with 9 on the season. Overall, it continues to be a solid season for Americans in Europe and especially the EPL. Below is a recap of several Americans playing in the top European leagues for the weekend of February 5th and 6th.

English Premier League

Clint Dempsey (Fulham) – Deuce scored late in the second half to salvage a draw for Fulham. He’s had his best season yet in England and has nine goals and three assists in league matches. Video of the goal can be viewed here.

Stuart Holden (Bolton) – He played 87 minutes as Bolton lost 2-1 at Spurs.

Tim Howard (Everton) – He made one save in a 5-3 win over Blackpool.

Brad Friedel (Aston Villa) – He made three saves in a 2-2 draw against Fulham.

Eric Lichaj (Aston Villa) – He didn’t suit up for the 2-2 draw.

Jonathan Spector (West Ham) – He didn’t suit up for the 0-1 loss at against Birmingham City.

Marcus Hahnemann (Wolves) – He was on the bench but didn’t play in a 2-1 win over Manchester United.

Jermaine Jones (Blackburn) – He played 78 minutes in a 4-3 loss at Wigan Athletic.

Michael Bradley (Aston Villa) – Along with Lichaj, Bradley didn’t suit up for the Fulham match.

English Championship

Eddie Johnson (Preston North End) – EJ made a loan move from EPL side Fulham to PNE for the rest of the season. He played the full match on Saturday but Preston lost 4-0 to Bristol City. They currently are last in the Championship table and 10 points from being clear of relegation.

Brad Guzan (Hull City) – Guzan was the back-up to Friedel at Aston Villa but left for a loan till the end of the season with Hull City. He played the full match as Hull won 5-1 on Saturday and made four saves.

Mike Grella (Leeds United) – After a short loan deal with Carlisle United, Grella is back at Leeds but hasn’t made an appearance since the opening match back in August.

German Bundesliga

Steve Cherundolo (Hannover 96) – He played the full match in a 1-0 win against Wolfsburg.

DaMarcus Beasley (Hannover 96) – He did not suit up for the Wolfsburg match.

Ricardo Clark (Eintracht Frankfurt) – Clark struggled to get healthy and get regular playing time until recently. After starting four league matches in a row in December/January, he fractured his cheekbone and probably won’t return until March.

Germany Bundesliga 2

Edson Buddle (FC Ingolstadt) – He played 80 minutes in a 1-0 win at Bielefeld. Buddle assisted on the goal and has made an immediate impact since joining the club. Ingolstadt currently are four points from getting out of the relegation zone and unbeaten since Buddle’s arrival.

Scottish Premier League

Maurice Edu (Rangers) – He played the full match in a 2-2 draw with Celtic.

French Ligue 1

Carlos Bocanegra (St Etienne) – He played the full match in a 2-1 win at Montpellier. The club is in 5th place and only two points back fron 2nd place.

Dutch Eredivisie

Oguchi Onyewu (FC Twente Enschede) – He didn’t suit up in Twente’s 1-1 draw with FC Utrecht. Gooch recently suffered an injury but should return soon.

Belgian Jupiler League

Sacha Kljestan (Anderlecht) - He was a late substitute in Anderlecht’s 2-0 win at St Truiden.

Turkish Super Lig

Jozy Altidore (Bursaspor) – He made a move on deadline day from La Liga side Villarreal to Bursaspor on loan for the end of the season. He didn’t suit up for their 2-1 win over Sivasspor on Friday.

Turkish Second Division

Freddy Adu (Rizespor) – He moved to Caykur Rizespor on a loan till the end of the season. Adu didn’t suit up on their 0-1 loss at Denizlispor on Saturday.

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American Charlie Davies, who is currently on contract with French Ligue 1 side, could be joining MLS side DC United for a season long loan. Davies has yet to play for the Sochaux (except for the reserve team) since his car accident in the fall of 2009. He will reportedly have a week with DC United to be evaluated and determine his fitness. DC United released the following statement.

“Charlie Davies is expected to join D.C. United in Ft. Lauderdale on Wednesday for a week-long evaluation period, which will include training and game time with the first team and a full medical evaluation by team doctors in D.C.,” the club said in a statement.

“Details of the 12-month loan have already been negotiated, but nothing will be official until D.C. United is satisfied Charlie is physically capable of playing at the level required to be successful in MLS.”

Will Davies be able to find the form he had before the car crash? This move to MLS could give him the chance to prove himself once again.

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Eddie Johnson

It was a very busy day in the transfer market including for several Americans playing in Europe. Below is a recap of some of the moves that were done in the deadline day.

Michael Bradley – The American midfielder moved from Borussia Monchengladbach to EPL side Aston Villa. It’s a loan deal but if Bradley impresses he’s likely to move there permanently or have offers from other EPL sides in the summer. This is a great move for Bradley who’s only 23 and proven himself in MLS, the Dutch Eredivisie, and the German Bundesliga. He still has to get a work permit to be eligible to play but that is just a formality with his European and National Team experience.

Robbie Findley – The former Real Salt Lake defender officially completed his move to English Championship side Nottingham Forest on Monday. Forest have had a strong season in the Championship and currently 5th in the table. Findley is known for his speed and quickness but will need to improve his finishing ability to get consistent playing time.

Eddie Johnson – The Fulham striker went on loan to Championship side Preston North End. Since joining Fulham in 2008, he’s struggled to get playing time and this will be this third time going on loan. Preston are currently last in the Championship table and six points from getting out of the relegation zone. EJ should get consistent time on the pitch but will probably return to Fulham for next year.

Jozy Altidore – He joined Turkish Super Lig side Bursaspor for a loan deal through the end of the season. Bursaspor are currently second in the league table and two points behind leaders Trabzonspor. Altidore rarely played for Villarreal and should have a chance to get in the starting line-up for Bursaspor.

Freddy Adu – He joined Çaykur Rizespor on a loan deal for the end of the season. For Adu, he’s failed to impress at every stop since joining Benfica in 2007 and going on loan numerous times. Rizespor are currently fighting for promotion from the Turkish Lig 1 (second division in Turkey) to the Super Lig.

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“I am really excited to be joining Villa,” Bradley said. “I am proud and thrilled and can’t wait to get going now.

“Everyone can see that Villa is a big club, a fantastic club, with tradition and great supporters. Over the past few years Villa have made big strides and are trying to challenge at the very top of the Premier League. I am excited to be part of that and I am excited to be here.

“I want to play at the highest level and test myself in the biggest of games. Whether it’s on Saturday against Fulham at Villa Park or the week after, I am excited to be here and ready to get going.”

“I try to be a guy in the centre of midfield who imposes himself on the game and can get forward and get goals,” Bradley added. “I try to win tackles and, defensively, make it really hard on the other team in the centre of the field. If you look at football nowadays every team needs guys who are in the centre of the field to win the battle in there. I will try to do everything I can to help the team be successful.

“Within the last week or so I heard that the manager [Gerard Houllier] was interested in bringing me here. From the moment I heard that, I was really excited and really just hoping that everything could get done.

“For me, the Premier League is the best league in the world. You watch a game in the Premier League and the speed of the game, the pace and the power all stand out. To have the opportunity to come here and test myself at the highest level, week in and week out, is incredible and to try to take the things I do as a player and make them count at the highest level – it’s a great challenge.”

Villa manager Gerard Houllier said: “Michael is is a very hard-working midfielder who can score goals and is versatile. I saw him play four times at the World Cup in South Africa. I saw him once on TV but four times at the games for the national team, so in terms of scouting you cannot say the work has not been done.

“We’re pleased that he is here at Aston Villa.”

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