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Owen joins Manchester United in shock move

2009-07-03T15:57:00.000+08:00

Michael Owen has been confirmed as a Manchester United player. The striker has signed a two-year deal to play at Old Trafford and no transfer was paid as the former Liverpool, Real Madrid and Newcastle forward was a free agent.

United manager Sir Alex Ferguson happily confirmed the deal saying, "Michael is a world class forward with a proven goalscoring record at the highest level and that has never been in question. Coming to Manchester United with the expectations that we have is something that Michael will relish"

Owen himself was similarly happy, and said: "I had just begun to talk to other Clubs when out of the blue Sir Alex phoned me on Wednesday afternoon, invited me to have breakfast with him next morning during which he told me that he wanted to sign me. I agreed without a moment's thought.

"This is a fantastic opportunity for me and I intend to seize it with both hands.

"I am now looking forward to being a Manchester United player and I am fortunate that I already know so many of the players here. I missed pre season last year and am pleased that I will be starting at Carrington from day one.

"I want to thank Sir Alex for the faith he has shown in me and I give him my assurance that I will repay him with my goals and performances"

The striker spent Friday morning at United's training complex, Carrington, before heading to a south Manchester hospital for more tests.

Owen left the hospital just after five o'clock and was understood to be returning to United's Carrington training ground to complete the formalities of the move.

The England international had been without a club following the expiry of his contract with Newcastle United and it appeared only Stoke City and Hull City were interested in offering him a contract.

But Sir Alex Ferguson has snapped up a player who is fourth in the all-time goalscorers list for his country.

Newspaper reports suggest the contract will be purely incentive based, depending on minutes played and goals scored. Sir Alex tried to sign the player - a boyhood Everton fan - as a teenager but instead he opted, on the advice of his father, to pen a contract with Liverpool where he scored 118 goals in 216 games.

United have been searching for a new forward since the departure of Carlos Tevez at the end of his loan deal. They had been linked with the likes of Karim Benzema and David Villa, but now it seems Owen will be arriving to pep up their striking options.

The 29-year-old suffered an injury-ravaged time at St James' Park but still managed to score 10 goals as the Magpies dropped out of the Premier League.

The former Liverpool and Real Madrid striker will be hoping a move to Old Trafford will push him back into the thoughts of England coach Fabio Capello ahead of next summer's World Cup finals.

In Manchester and among fans, the reaction has been mixed; Red Devils' messageboards have been lighting up with negative comments.

"Not happy. From what I've seen he is nowhere near as good as he was," was one; while another discontented fan lamented: "Owen hasnt been the same for years!"

Kaka Receives Squad Number 8 At Real Madrid

2009-06-30T22:52:00.002+08:00

Over 40,000 fans packed into the Santiago Bernabeu this evening to see the arrival of one man at Real Madrid, and it is fair to say they did not seem disappointed.

Kaka's first appearance as a Madrid player in the White House was an occasion that grew louder and louder as the evening went on.

The opening words from Florentino Perez greeting the Brazilian to the club caused quite a stir, but that was soon overtaken as the former AC Milan man himself walked up onto the stage, applauding all the way.

Even then as he stood and smiled as Perez continued to talk, the fans cheered and chanted, and only finally came to a hush when Kaka took charge of the microphone.

"Thank you president, good evening to all Madridistas. This is very special for me. I'm very happy to take my career here to Real Madrid," he began.

"There is nothing comparable to the history of this club. Hala Madrid!"

The final two words were greeted with the loudest roar of the evening and even when minutes later he was handed his top with the number eight on, the fans were still singing his name.

A quick lap around the stadium slapping hands with the hands and applauding them was a fitting end to the evening before he wandered back down the tunnel with his number clear for all to see.

In recent times the '8' jersey has been worn by Steve McManaman, Michel, Ruben and last year by Fernando Gago.

As Jorge Valdano, Real Madrid director explained, the decision does not mean Gago is leaving, just he is changing number too.

"I want to clear up the reason why he has been given the number 8 jersey. As you know, numbers 5, 18 and 9 were not assigned. We knew that Fernando Gago wanted to wear the no. 5 - that is something that us Argentinians understand very well, it's a very special number for us. So we gave Kaka the number 8, which he was very happy to have," he mused.

"So for the first time at Real Madrid, we made two people happy at the very same time."

Ronaldo signs six year deal at Real Madrid

2009-06-26T23:38:00.001+08:00

Cristiano Ronaldo has completed his £80 million world record transfer to Real Madrid, signing a six-year contract.

"Real Madrid and Manchester United have signed the final agreement for the transfer of the rights of the player Cristiano Ronaldo effective July 1," the Spanish club said.

"The player will remain at Real Madrid for the next six seasons and will be presented on July 6 at the Bernabeu stadium," a statement read.

Portugal international Ronaldo, the World Footballer of the Year, becomes the third confirmed signing under new Real president Florentino Perez, who has returned to the club pledging to create a "spectacular sporting project".

Perez spent around 67 million euros on AC Milan's Brazilian playmaker Kaka and has also brought in Spain defender Raul Albiol from Valencia for a reported fee of 15 million euros.

Real and Ronaldo's representatives had been negotiating personal terms since United announced this month they had accepted the Madrid club's offer.

There were no details of the agreement in the Real statement. Spanish media have reported that Ronaldo will earn around 13 million euros per season.

Glen Johnson Joins Liverpool From Portsmouth

2009-06-26T11:16:00.001+08:00

Liverpool have confirmed that Glen Johnson has joined them today from Portsmouth, in a deal reportedly worth £18.5 million, though there has apparently been some negotiation around the fee due to Pompey still owing the Merseysiders money from the deal that took Peter Crouch to the South Coast.

Johnson has signed a four-year deal at Anfield.

Reds manager Rafa Benitez was clearly pleased with the signing, telling the club's official website, "He was important at Chelsea and in the last year at Portsmouth he has improved and is much better. One of the main things is his mentality - it's really good. He is a winner. I was impressed with the conversations I had with him. He wants to improve."

As for the reasons he was brought to Anfield, Benitez chose to highlight not only the player's obvious quality, but also the fact the he is English, which is important with new rules concerning foreign players on the immediate horizon.

"We were thinking about bringing in players with quality - that's the first thing," he added.

"He is also English and that is important for the Champions League list. We were thinking about improving the team and Johnson is a very good player who will do that.

"We knew the market was going to be difficult this summer and some of it has been crazy. Manchester City and Chelsea were there - they were making offers.

"We had to be quick and the club acted quickly. It was down to the player whether he chose us or City or Chelsea and he chose us. It was very clear from talking to him that he wanted to play for Liverpool."

The manager also did not rule out further acquisitions for the Mersey men, though he took a typically cautious line when he explained, "We are working and trying to bring new players in but we are happy with the squad we have at the moment.

"We were thinking about improving and with Johnson we have improved. Like I have already said, we could buy one more player without selling anyone. We now have to wait.

As for what the deal could mean for Spanish international Alvaro Arbeloa, linked this week with a move to Real Madrid, Benitez was frank, adding, "Arbeloa was a good player for us last year. The thing is, he has one year left on his contract. We have offered him an extension and we're talking.

"He is our player but if there is a good offer we have to consider it. We have two or three clubs asking about him. He would like to stay but he knows the competition will be hard."

Raul Albiol to join Real Madrid

2009-06-25T13:25:00.001+08:00

Real Madrid have agreed to sign defender Raul Albiol from Valencia on a five-year contract, the big-spending Liga club announced.

The deal will be completed next week once the 23-year-old Spain international, who is at the Confederations Cup in South Africa, completes a medical and signs his contract, Real said on their website.

Spanish media reported the transfer fee was around 15 million euros (£13m).

Albiol will become the second confirmed signing by new Real president Florentino Perez following his purchase of Brazil playmaker Kaka from Milan for around 67 million euros.

Perez has also bid £80m for Manchester United winger Cristiano Ronaldo, with the deal expected to be completed in the next few days.

Albiol, who suffered a serious car crash in 2004 which left him without a spleen, is likely to partner Portuguese international Pepe in central defence although Madrid could buy another centre half this summer, with Pepe six matches into a 10-game ban.

Albiol made his Valencia debut in 2003 and first played for Spain in a 3-1 win over Denmark in 2007.

Benfica Sign Real Madrid's Javier Saviola

2009-06-25T11:41:00.000+08:00

Javier Saviola had been linked with a loan move to the Estádio da Luz but Benfica have instead opted to make this a permanent move.

The Eagles have released a statement to the Portuguese stock market to confirm the signing of Saviola for a fee of 5 million euros.

The 27-year-old will fly to Lisbon in the next few days and will sign a three-year contract upon passing a medical with the club.

Saviola will now reunite with Pablo Aimar, with whom he enjoyed great success during their time at River Plate.

El Conejito is hoping that this new challenge will put his career back on track after failing to impress at Real Madrid during his two-year stint.

Real Madrid sign Kaka in £60m deal

2009-06-09T18:08:00.004+08:00

Real Madrid have completed the signing of Brazilian playmaker Kaka from Milan for just under £60 million.

The 27-year-old international has agreed to a six-year contract to become the first player to join Real since Florentino Perez returned to the presidency this month.

Reports said the transfer fee was around 68 million euros (£58.8m) which would make it the second biggest ever after Zinedine Zidane joined Real from Juventus for around 73m euros (£63.1m) in 2001.

Kaka completed a routine medical earlier on Monday in Recife, where Brazil face Paraguay at home in a World Cup qualifier on Wednesday.

Kaka said he was leaving the Italians on good terms.

"Everything I've always done for Milan has been by mutual agreement, from the moment I arrived until my departure today," he said at the Brazil team hotel. "I'm leaving by the front door."

"I've won everything that I wanted as a player and this is a new motivation for me."

"I'm sure Real Madrid will build a competitive team which can start winning titles again."

The official unveiling in Madrid is likely to take place at the end of the month, after the Confederations Cup in South Africa.

"We are working on building a good team, an important team, and this has only just begun," Perez told radio station Onda Cero.

Milan thanked Kaka for his contribution.

"Milan thanks the man Kaka and the champion Kaka for his decisive contributions to so many victories obtained in the last six years," the Serie A club said.

"His loss on the field, though serious, can be filled. It will, however, be very difficult to fill the void left by Kaka the man."

Kaka has long been a target for Real Madrid since former president Ramon Calderon promised to sign him in his election campaign in 2006 but failed to deliver.

Calderon resigned in January paving the way for Perez to come back three years after he stood down, and he was returned unopposed to the post.

Perez has promised to deliver a "spectacular sporting project" built around the world's greatest players, and local media have spoken of a 300 million euro (£259.5m) war chest which will be used to finance a second 'Galactico era' at the Bernabeu.

Having lured the likes of Luis Figo, Zinedine Zidane and David Beckham to Real earlier in the decade, Perez's flagship first signing on his return was Kaka, a move seen as both a declaration of intent and a dig at his predecessor.

He has also spoken of interest in Manchester United's Cristiano Ronaldo, Bayern Munich's Franck Ribery, Liverpool's Xabi Alonso and Valencia duo David Villa and David Silva.

New coach Manuel Pellegrini is the man tasked with blending these talents into a team capable of challenging treble-winners Barcelona.

Kaka will not face much competition in midfield which was one of Real's weakest areas last season as they lacked flair players capable of opening up sides in big games.

His arrival will also cheer Real fans clamouring for a more entertaining brand of football, and who had often chanted "Where is Kaka?" at player presentations under Calderon over the last couple of years.

Tevez: I'll play for Liverpool

2009-05-16T22:04:00.002+08:00

Manchester United's unwanted striker Carlos Tevez has said he wants to join bitter rivals Liverpool.

According to reports in British newspaper The Sun, Liverpool have contacted Tevez's owner Kia Joorad-Chian to register their interest in the Argentinean, who said on the weekend that he was ready to leave United.

The move will enable Tevez to stay in Cheshire where his family are settled, while reports suggest the 25-year-old is not concerned by the unrest the switch may cause with Manchester United and their fans because he believes that United don't want him.

The news is sure to rile up United boss Alex Ferguson, who has always refused to sell his players to Liverpool, the last was a block on Gabriel Heinze two years ago, even though United wanted to sell him.

Tevez is currently on-loan to Manchester United, and unless the club make his loan permanent - reported to be at a cost of 26-million-pounds - United will be unable to block the move as Tevez will be a free agent.

Chelsea, Manchester City and now Tottenham are also said to be interested in signing the player.

Bolt tells Ronaldo how to stay grounded

2009-05-16T21:56:00.002+08:00

Manchester United's Portuguese ace Cristiano Ronaldo has been given some advice from triple goal-medallist Usain Bolt who is set to cheer on United as they take on Arsenal in their bid to win an eleventh Premier League trophy at Old Trafford on Sunday (NZT).

Jamaican Olympic hero Bolt is currently in the North-West of England for the Manchester street race and told Four-Four Two magazine that he would like to play for United.

"I want to run on the pitch and score in the net if they let me," Bolt told the magazine.

"It will be something for me to have pictures of. Who knows, maybe I can be a Man U player in the future."

United fan Bolt was also present at United's training session, where he was reported to have offered star midfielder Cristiano Ronaldo some advice to stop the player being knocked to the ground so easily.

"I explained to him a few things about when he is running and reaches top speed he starts to tip over, he always does that," the athlete said.

"I let him know if he brings his foot on the centre of gravity, or even in front of him, it will be much easier. He will be much better and he will go faster for longer.

"Because he's so fast they keep pushing him around, he needs to be more aggressive, [then] they will leave him alone."

Bolt will watch United take on Arsenal on Sunday before taking to the streets of Manchester for the 150 metre race on Monday.

This will be Bolt's first race since being injured in a car crash on April 29th.

Champions League Draw

2009-03-20T20:01:00.000+08:00

Liverpool will face Chelsea in the Champions League quarter-finals, the fifth consecutive season they have met in the competition. Liverpool have won two and Chelsea one of the clubs' recent battles in Europe, but the Blues won the most recent in last year's semi-finals. Rafa Benitez's side won the 2004/05 semi-final, before the teams locked horns in the 2005/06 group stage. Liverpool then won the 2006/07 semi-final against Chelsea, who turned the tables under Avram Grant in last season's semis. Holders Manchester United play Portuguese champions FC Porto, while Arsenal meet Villarreal of Spain. Arsene Wenger's team beat the Spaniards in the 2006 last four before losing to Barca in the final. If both Premier League clubs win those ties, they will face off in the last four - their first Champions League meeting. The winners of the Liverpool-Chelsea tie will take on either Barcelona or Bayern Munich, with the pair meeting in the other quarter-final. The quarter-final first legs will be played on April 7 or 8 with the return matches the following week. UEFA has said it will do all it can to avoid Liverpool playing on April 15 - the 20th anniversary of the Hillsborough disaster. Rafa Benitez's side, buoyed by the coach's contract renewal and a 4-1 win at United in the Premier League, will be at home for the first leg. United lost to eventual winners Porto in 2004 when Jose Mourinho was the coach of the Portuguese side. Alex Ferguson got his own back on his old nemesis last week when United knocked out Mourinho's Inter in the last 16. The final will be played on Wednesday, May 27 at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome, where there will be no home interest after Inter, Juventus and Roma were all eliminated in the last 16.

Quarter-finals

Villarreal v Arsenal

Manchester United v Porto

Liverpool v Chelsea

Barcelona v Bayern Munich

* First legs to be played April 7 and 8

Second legs to be played April 14 and 15

Semi-finals

Manchester United or Porto v Villarreal or Arsenal

Barcelona or Bayern Munich v Liverpool or Chelsea

* First legs to be played on April 28 and 29

* Second legs to be played May 5 and 6

Four-goal Liverpool stun United

2009-03-15T11:21:00.002+08:00

Liverpool capped a fantastic week by coming from behind to beat 10-man Manchester United 4-1 at Old Trafford to rekindle their Premier League title challenge.

Following a thrilling 4-0 midweek win over Real Madrid in the Champions League, Liverpool cut the gap on leaders United to four points thanks to goals by Fernando Torres, Steven Gerrard, Fabio Aurelio and Andrea Dossena.

United, who had Nemanja Vidic dismissed in the second half, took the lead through Cristiano Ronaldo only for Liverpool to fight back and give their title hopes receive a huge shot in the arm, even though United still have a game in hand on their rivals from Merseyside.

Ronaldo's opener came from a well-taken spot kick on 22 minutes after Pepe Reina had brought down Park Ji-Sung with a reckless challenge in the Liverpool penalty area.

But United's lead lasted just six minutes as the visitors launched a thrilling comeback, sparked by two uncharacteristic errors from a defensive unit that has been lauded for much of the season.

First, the usually unflappable Vidic opted to allow a long Martin Skrtel clearance to bounce, allowing the snappy Torres to apply pressure on him. The Serb duly cracked as he was outmuscled by the Liverpool striker, who ran in on goal and beat Edwin van der Sar with a typically cool finish.

And then just before half-time, Patrice Evra - much like Reina before him - made a terrible error of judgement with a trip on Gerrard as the Liverpool skipper burst into the United box.

As with the earlier penalty, referee Alan Wiley had no choice but to point to the spot, from where Gerrard kept his nerve to fire past Van der Sar and put Liverpool into a half-time lead.

United started the second half with real intent, but another awkward moment from Vidic in the 76th minute when the Serb failed to control the ball on his thigh allowed Gerrard to rob him and burst forward.

Vidic completed a miserable personal afternoon by hauling down Gerrard and promptly receiving a red card - his second against Liverpool this season, having already been dismissed at Anfield in September. To make matters worse for United, Aurelio stepped up to fire the resulting free-kick into the top right hand corner to put Liverpool 3-1 up.

Substitute Andrea Dossena completed the rout in stoppage time with a fine chip over Van der Sar after the United back line, Rio Ferdinand more specifically, once again failed to deal with a long ball forward.

The result was all the more impressive considering Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez had to cope with an enforced late change to his plans after Alvaro Arbeloa injured his calf in the pre-match warm-up.

The unexpected blow forced Jamie Carragher into occupying the right-back position, a post the centre-back is not entirely comfortable in, with Sami Hyypia starting in the middle.

But Liverpool had Carragher to thank after just three minutes, the defender finding himself in a more central position to make a crucial block on Park's shot from that seemed destined to cause Reina problems.

Reina proved to be a central character during the opening period, and not just for his error of judgement for the penalty. The Spaniard looked shaky on crosses and his spill from Ronaldo's 34th minute free-kick - with the score level at 1-1 - nearly led to a second for United - only his quick reaction prevented Carlos Tevez pouncing from close range.

Michael Carrick, off-form by his high standards this season, then fashioned a chance for United to re-take the lead on 42 minutes with a neat turn but his shot flew just over the bar.

United, roared on by a vocal crowd, started the second period strongly and of the two sides, it was the hosts who looked the more likely after the break to grab the next goal.

Ronaldo struck a post with a mis-hit cross soon after the restart before Wayne Rooney and then Tevez - preferred to Dimitar Berbatov in Alex Ferguson's starting line-up - were given shooting opportunities.

Rooney brought Reina into action, but Tevez failed to work the Liverpool keeper, screwing his effort wide of the upright after having turned on the edge of the box.

But the dismissal of Vidic - and Aurelio's stunning strike from the resulting free-kick - effectively put paid to United's hopes of getting back into the game as Liverpool began to enjoy themselves with the final whistle approaching.

Even before Dossena swooped at the death, Liverpool would have grabbed another had Gerrard not blazed over from Ryan Babel's cute back heel.

No matter; Liverpool did go on to get a fourth, sealing a famous win over their bitter rivals as Benitez recorded a 100th Premier League victory.

Zinedine Zidane: Liverpool's Steven Gerrard Is The World's Best Player

2009-03-13T09:32:00.001+08:00

The legendary French midfielder has explained why he feels the Reds captain is better than Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo...

Zinedine Zidane, who is a three-time World Player of the Year winner, has given his verdict on who he believes the best football player in the world at present is: Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard.

The legendary French international, who won the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000 with les Bleus, believes it is the England midfielder's all-round play that sets him apart from other world-class stars.

"Is he the best in the world? He might not get the attention of Lionel Messi and [Cristiano] Ronaldo but yes, I think he just might be," Zidane is quoted as saying in The Daily Mail when asked about Gerrard following Liverpool's 4-0 win over Real Madrid on Tuesday evening.

"If you don't have a player like Steven Gerrard, who is the engine room, it can affect the whole team.

"When we were winning league titles and European Cups at Real, I always said Claude Makelele was our most important player.

"There is no way myself, Luis Figo or Raul would have been able to do what we did without Claude and the same goes for Liverpool and Gerrard.

"He has great passing ability, can tackle and scores goals, but most importantly he gives the players around him confidence and belief.

"You can't learn that, players like him are just born with that presence."

Steven Gerrard to start

2009-02-28T02:00:00.001+08:00

Rafael Benitez has confirmed Steven Gerrard should start Liverpool's Premier League clash at Middlesbrough, but Fernando Torres will miss out on the game at the Riverside.

Parry to leave Liverpool

2009-02-28T01:55:00.003+08:00

Liverpool have confirmed chief executive Rick Parry will leave his position at the end of the season.

Parry's position has become increasingly unstable in the last few months as a result of boardroom divides between American co-owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks.

A statement from Hicks read: "Rick's commitment to Liverpool Football Club is epitomised by his desire to ensure that this transitional period is managed efficiently and we are grateful to him for his help. He will always remain a friend of the football club."

Parry, 54, made no mention of the ongoing feuds as he confirmed the end of his long association with the club.

Last April he was asked to resign by Hicks in a move he branded "offensive" and has had to compete with the American forming a 'shadow executive' led by commercial director Ian Ayre and finance director Steve Nash, who operate out of a city centre office away from Anfield.

"I have had 12 very exciting years at Liverpool and am extremely proud of what has been achieved by the club over that period," Parry said.

"The victory in Madrid was a wonderful reminder of the many high points we have experienced and adds to the moments that make Liverpool and its magnificent fans so special.

"It has been a privilege to serve the club and as a lifelong supporter I wish the owners, Rafa (Benitez), the players and the wonderful staff all the very best for the future.

"I will be leaving at the end of the season knowing that the club remains strong and with a set of supporters who deserve success in all that Liverpool does."

Gillett added: "I would like to thank Rick for his significant service to the club and the assistance he has given us since we joined Liverpool. He has been integral to the club's success over the past decade and leaves with our best wishes for the future."

Ironically, Parry facilitated Hicks' and Gillett's purchase of the club in February 2007 after Dubai Investment Capital's bid fell through and he was understood to have received a £500,00 bonus when the deal was completed.

But the relationship between the trio gradually disintegrated, leaving Parry allied with Gillett and Hicks to side with manager Rafael Benitez.

Rumours of boardroom discontent and instability have blighted Liverpool's last two seasons, and rumours that Benitez was on the verge of quitting earlier this week threatened to overshadow the crucial 1-0 defeat of Real Madrid in the first leg of the Champions League last 16.

Parry has already considered resigning this season when he was touted to be chief executive of England's 2018 World Cup bid but opted to remain at Anfield and stand his ground.

Having been born and raised on Merseyside, Parry studied at the University of Liverpool before becoming a management consultant.

He was chief executive of the Manchester 1992 Olympic bid and director of the 1996 bid, and was consulted about plans to found the Premier League in 1992 before becoming its first chief executive.

Liverpool confirmed they will begin their search for Parry's replacement and will "update supporters and other stakeholders when appropriate".

Jose's Liverpool link

2009-02-28T01:51:00.002+08:00

Liverpool are understood to have sounded out Internazionale boss Jose Mourinho in case Rafael Benitez leaves Anfield.

Well that's what the back pages of the British tabloids reckon, with The Sun quoting a Liverpool insider as follows:

"The Americans had read Mourinho was interested in returning to the Premier League and wanted to know if he meant it.

"But it wasn't a firm approach or a job offer. It was more a case of testing the water in case Rafa did decide to walk out."

Okay, it makes sense. Benitez's relationship with "the Americans" (co-chairmen Tom Hicks and George Gillett) has been fractious at best, and all parties have been stalling over signing a new contract and securing the future of the Spaniard's assistants.

However, the decision of Liverpool to part ways with chief executive Rick Parry implies that Benitez has won his war to gain full control over transfers and development, and that he will now sign a deal to stay at the club for four more years.

And even if he does yearn for a return to England, why would Mourinho move to Liverpool from Inter with the Italians the dominant force in domestic football and one creative midfielder short of a Champions League-winning side?

Liverpool Striker Fernando Torres Set For Fresh Lay-Off

2009-02-27T02:38:00.003+08:00

Torres' injury-plagued season look set to continue as the ankle injury he acquired against Real Madrid could see him miss a handful of games...

Having limped off in the Bernabeu, it looks as though Liverpool hitman Fernando Torres will spend yet more time on the sidelines.

Wednesday night's Champions League clash between the Reds and Real Madrid had been eagerly anticipated, with Spain's Euro 2008 hero Torres and 'Pool skipper Steven Gerrard expected to give los Blancos headaches.

However, ‘El Nino’ struggled early on and ended up limping off on the hour mark, replaced by Ryan Babel. Gerrard, meanwhile, started on the bench and only saw a few minutes of action. Nevertheless, Liverpool were still able to snatch a monumental away goal thanks to Yossi Benayoun, who headed them to a 1-0 first leg victory.

However, it looks to have come at a price, with Torres set for another stint in the treatment room due to an ankle problem. His season has been ruined by hamstring injuries and a fresh complaint is the last thing he needs.

After the game, boss Rafael Benitez told the press, "With Torres, we don't know. He will probably miss some games.

"We have a game in three days' time [at Middlesbrough] so it will be difficult for him to be ready."

Juve's Nedved to retire at end of season

2009-02-27T02:35:00.001+08:00

After twice backtracking on previous statements of intent, Pavel Nedved has announced his intention to retire from football at the end of the current season in order to make way for a younger generation of players.

Juventus's 36-year-old former European footballer of the year said: ''I will quit at the end of the season, no matter how well we do in the Champions League or Serie A.''

The former Czech Republic international, who is a regular starter with the Serie A giants almost retired at the end of the 2006-07 and 2007-08 seasons but on both occasions opted to extend his playing career by signing consecutive one-year deals.

''The decision is final and I don't think I will change my mind - I don't need to. It is the right time to quit,'' the former Czech Republic international told UEFA's website after Wednesday's 1-0 defeat at Chelsea in the Champions League last 16.

''I'm still enjoying playing but considering my physical and mental condition I understand that the time has come to make way for younger players - they deserve to play,'' he added.

The attacking midfielder was awarded the 2003 Ballon D'Or after helping Juventus reach the Champions League final, although he was unable to play in the defeat to AC Milan on penalties because of a suspension.

After joining Juventus from Lazio in 2001 Nedved won the 2002 and 2003 Serie A crowns in Turin and stuck with the club after they were relegated to Serie B and stripped of the 2005 and 2006 titles because of Italy's match-fixing scandal.

Nedved notched up 91 caps with the Czech Republic between 1994 and 2006 and was the driving force behind the team that reached the final of Euro 96.

Lazio brought him to Italy from Sparta Prague after that tournament and he helped the Rome club to lift the 1999 European Cup Winners' Cup and the Italian league title the following year.

Chelsea's Kalou keen on a move to Arsenal

2009-02-27T02:33:00.002+08:00

Chelsea and Ivory Coast striker Salomon Kalou has said he would consider joining Arsenal at the end of the season after being told of Gunners boss Arsene Wenger's apparent interest in him.

Speaking to Setanta after Chelsea's 1-0 first-leg, last-16 Champions League win over Juventus on Wednesday evening the 23-year-old revealed he was honoured to be linked with Arsenal before heaping praise on Wenger and his side's style of play.

''Wenger said he thought of signing me? That's an honour for me, an honour'', said Kalou. ''He is a very great coach and I know that every single player in the world dreams of playing for him. I have a lot of respect for him, he is one of the best coaches in the world so why not?

''I am still under contract with Chelsea but of course I have plenty of friends who play for Arsenal in Kolo Toure, Emmanuel Eboue and Emmanuel Adebayor. They are achieving huge things at Arsenal and watching them play is just beautiful.''

Kalou's revelation could prove to be destablising for Chelsea who have attempted to distance themselves from reports of in-fighting and under interim boss Guus Hiddink have appeared a more unified squad.

With Joe Cole ruled out through injury Hiddink has started Kalou in both of his two games in charge of Chelsea, but a lack of first team football before the Dutch coach's arrival could tempt Kalou to consider his options in the summer.

''You are never guaranteed to be in the Chelsea starting XI. Every single player fights to earn his place, including me, and the coach is the one that has the final word.

''At the present time I'm happy at Chelsea and I hope that the things that I want to happen will happen. I will think of my future once the season is over,'' added Kalou.

Fabregas: Title ''not realistic''

2009-02-27T02:28:00.002+08:00

The skipper lies injured on the pitch.

Cesc Fabregas accepts it is ''not realistic'' for Arsenal to think about winning the Premier League this season - but maintains his team can force themselves back into the top four.

Club captain Fabregas suffered knee ligament damage after a challenge with Liverpool's Xabi Alonso in the Premier League match at the Emirates Stadium on December 21 and has had to watch as his side slipped out of title contention.

While Arsenal may now be unbeaten in 14 games after the midweek Champions League win over Roma, their inability to convert chances has proved costly in terms of dropped points and three successive goalless draws has seen the gap open to a 17-point advantage held by champions Manchester United.

Nevertheless, Fabregas - who has targeted the start of April for a return from a serious knee injury - insists Arsenal have what it takes to re-establish themselves in the Champions League places.

''It is not realistic to look at the league title now. You can never say never of course, but at the moment we would not be intelligent to be looking right to the top of the league,'' the Spaniard said. ''To be intelligent now is to go game by game and think about who is directly in front of us.

''Now we have to make sure we put a run of wins together and don't lose more points.

''Chelsea and Aston Villa will drop points, of that I am sure, and that is why we need to be ready to capitalise at the right time - just as Manchester United have waited half a season for Liverpool to lose some points and taken advantage of it.

''We need to be sure that we take the chances we will get to go above them because it is really important for next season.''

Arsenal have played in Europe's elite club competition for more than a decade, reaching the final in 2006 and Fabregas maintains everyone is focused on achieving the goal of successful qualification once again.

''We always take things seriously, but now more than ever,'' he said. ''In 2005/06 we were really close to dropping out of the Champions League places and had to wait until the last game of the season and I am telling you it is not easy.

''Nobody wants to see Arsenal outside the top four, so we need to stick together. We want to survive this and we will.''

Gerrard set to make early return from injury

2009-02-19T04:23:00.001+08:00

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard could make an earlier-than-expected return from a hamstring injury against Manchester City on Sunday.

The England midfielder suffered the tear in the Merseyside derby on February 4 and was initially expected to be out for three weeks - with the Champions League clash with Real Madrid thought to be his most likely target.

But manager Rafael Benitez has opened the door for a potential return from the bench at the weekend.

The Spaniard said: "He is improving. In these situations each day is important. He is working with the medical staff and is progressing.

"Normally he is a player who recovers quickly. He needs less time than other players," Benitez told Liverpool's official website.

"I was surprised because the Spanish press said he'd play some minutes this weekend and then play against Real Madrid, but the truth is we don't know yet.

"Maybe he could be on the bench against City but we don't know.

"He wants to play every single game. He knows the game against City will be very important, and also the Real Madrid one too."

Milan: Ready To Offer David Beckham A Deal Until 2010

2009-02-18T17:58:00.002+08:00

Milan are ready to offer David Beckham a one year deal until June 2010 according to a source at the Serie A giants.

The Rossoneri are working overtime to find a way to convince Los Angeles Galaxy to let them have the Englishman on a permanent deal. Beckham has been on loan at San Siro for two months and he was due to return to the Galaxy on March 9.

However, Milan are currently locked in talks with the Americans and are reportedly poised to offer 'Becks' a 12 month deal.

"We hope to sign Beckham until at least June 30, 2010," a source at the club is quoted as saying on Reuters.com.

Rossoneri director Umberto Gandini will fly out to America with his team of lawyers on Thursday in an attempt to close the Beckham deal in their favour.

The Americans have rejected the Italian club's original offer, believing it to be less than satisfactory for a player of Beckham's quality.

Nevertheless, Milan remain confident of concluding the affair by early next week and it is considered that a €10 million offer will land their target.

The former Real Madrid star is desperate to stay on at San Siro to help boost his chances of making another World Cup appearance for the English national side. Beckham will be 35-years-old by the time proceedings in South Africa get underway next year.

No Chelsea Interest In Valencia's David Villa, Agent Quashes Manchester City Link

2009-02-18T13:27:00.002+08:00

Considering Valencia's uncertain financial future, it is not surprising to hear of relentless speculation linking David Villa with a lucrative move away from the club as the scramble for his signature allegedly increases.

However, the player's agent has declared that there has been no official interest from Chelsea as yet, and a move to Manchester City is not a possibility.

Jose Luis Tamargo today told the Daily Mirror: "David has rejected the chance to play in England.

"It would be a nonsense to negotiate with Manchester City and Chelsea aren't interested.

"If Valencia do decide to sell him he wants to stay in Spain."

David Villa is one of the most prolific strikers in Europe, and has already found the net on 18 occasions in La Liga this season.
Liverpool and Inter have been press-linked with the player, but the latest news is sure to alert Spanish giants, Barcelona and Real Madrid.

Chelsea though, may require an additional striker in the summer, as Didier Drogba could return to Olympique Marseille.

The Premier League All-Star game!

2009-02-17T01:19:00.002+08:00

Steven Gerrard,Liverpool

Cristiano Ronaldo,Manchester United

Fernando Torres,Liverpool

David Bentley,Tottenham Hotspur

Shay Given,Manchester City

On Sunday night, the NBA played its annual All-Star game - so why doesn't the Premier League do the same thing?

The concept: Fans vote for the best players in the Premier League, including representatives from each team. These players are divided into two teams (in this case, North and South), who play a showpiece exhibition match at Wembley.

Why? For fun, basically. Who wouldn't want to see two teams of the Premier League's best players going head-to-head? And with Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger in charge of their respective teams, there would be no shortage of a competitive edge. It would also be a fitting reward for players who have enjoyed a good season.

When? The Premier League could follow the example of baseball and basketball, and hold the event at the mid-point of the season. Many managers have called for a winter break, and a short hiatus to play the All-Star game in January might be welcomed. Alternatively, it could be played at the start of the season instead of the Community Shield, which has become an increasingly irrelevant event.

The teams: While the NBA pits the Eastern and Western Conferences against each other, our game focuses on the North-South divide.

On one side, we have 11 clubs to represent the North, and on the other the remaining nine make up the Midlands/South region.

North - Blackburn, Bolton, Everton, Hull, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United, Middlesbrough, Newcastle, Sunderland, Wigan.

Midlands/South - Arsenal, Aston Villa, Chelsea, Fulham, Portsmouth, Stoke City, Tottenham, West Brom, West Ham.

Rules:

- Players are selected by the public based on a combination of form this season and overall reputation.

- Each squad consists of 20 players, including at least one from every club.

- Maximum of two players per club in a starting XI.

- If a player has moved, he represents his present club, although performances for both sides count towards his selection.

Eurosport-Yahoo!'s Premier League All-Star selections:

THE NORTH - Manager: Sir Alex Ferguson (Manchester United)

GK: Shay Given (Manchester City)

RB: Mario Melchiot (Wigan Athletic)

CB: Michael Turner (Hull City)

CB: Phil Jagielka (Everton)

LB: Stephen Warnock (Blackburn Rovers)

RM: Cristiano Ronaldo (Manchester United)

CM: Steven Gerrard (Liverpool),

CM: Stephen Ireland (Manchester City)

LM: Mikel Arteta (Everton)

FW: Fernando Torres (Liverpool)

FW: Wayne Rooney (Manchester United)

Subs: Jussi Jaaskelainen (Bolton Wanderers), Rio Ferdinand (Manchester United), Emanuel Pogatetz (Middlesbrough), Luis Antonio Valencia (Wigan Athletic), Javier Mascherano (Liverpool), Kieran Richardson (Sunderland), Tim Cahill (Everton), Michael Owen (Newcastle United), Robinho (Manchester City)

THE MIDLANDS/SOUTH - Manager: Arsene Wenger (Arsenal)

GK: Robert Green (West Ham United)

RB: Glen Johnson (Portsmouth)

CB: Brede Hangeland (Fulham)

CB: Matthew Upson (West Ham United)

LB: Gael Clichy (Arsenal)

CM: Cesc Fabregas (Arsenal)

CM: Frank Lampard (Chelsea)

CM: Wilson Palacios (Tottenham Hotspur)

RW: Gabriel Agbonlahor (Aston Villa)

LW: Ashley Young (Aston Villa)

FW: Nicolas Anelka (Chelsea)

Subs: Brad Friedel (Aston Villa), Martin Laursen (Aston Villa), John Terry (Chelsea), Gareth Barry (Aston Villa), James Morrison (West Brom), Rory Delap (Stoke City), Mark Noble (West Ham United), Robin van Persie (Arsenal), Jermain Defoe (Tottenham Hotspur)

Jose says he'll return to Chelsea one day

2009-02-14T14:19:00.000+08:00

Jose Mourinho believes he will return to Chelsea sometime in the future.

The London club, have put Russia coach Guus Hiddink in charge until the end of the season after sacking Luiz Felipe Scolari on Monday but the Portugese boss, sacked in September 2007, seemingly believes he has unfinished business at Stamford Bridge.

"If you ask me if one day I think I will return to Chelsea, I will tell you yes I think so, I think so because we were so happy together," Internazionale boss Mourinho told a news conference ahead of Sunday's derby against AC Milan. "But when I say one day, I am not saying to you when."

"I am not there, I am just a supporter from the outside," he continued. "I'm somebody who wishes them good because it's a special club for me, I have special friends there.

"I belong to their story, they belong to my story so I am not enjoying this period where they have had several managers in one year and a few months.

"I hope they find stability and go back to (winning) trophies."

Inter team have a seven-point lead at the top of Serie A, said he was not surprised to see England midfielder David Beckham doing well during his loan spell at AC Milan from Los Angeles Galaxy.

"I knew in advance all the fears people had about him were not fair," said Mourinho. "I knew he was a top professional, he arrived in great condition with great ambition.

"He has adapted very well, he is playing very well. He is giving different kinds of qualities to his team and I hope he stays for the good of the league."

Cristiano Ronaldo At €95 Million

2009-02-14T13:30:00.000+08:00

Real Madrid will have to pay €95 million if they are to sign Cristiano Ronaldo next summer, according to reports in Spain.

AS claims that meetings have taken place between the player's agent, Jorge Mendes, and Manchester United officials, which resulted in that price being agreed on.

Even though the player himself and his club have declared that he will not move, it is thought that there is an agreement in place between Ronaldo and Real Madrid.

The deal was believed to have been made by Ramon Calderon when he was president at the Bernabeu, but the option of purchase will now fall to whoever takes over in the summer.

Reports this week claimed that Madrid have even taken out a loan to buy the player, although Vicente Boluda denied those claims in an interview yesterday.

Nevertheless, it is no secret that Ronaldo has been, and still is, a Real Madrid target, and apparently he has a deal with Sir Alex Ferguson too, that will allow him to leave.

The agreement with Ferguson is reported to be that if he played with the English side this season then he would leave next season, but Real Madrid will still have to stump up €95 million to buy him.

As far as presidential candidates go, it seems unlikely that any would not want to bring Ronaldo in, and the favourite for the position, Florentino Perez, is thought to have him as his main target.

Weak pound stops United topping rich list

2009-02-12T19:33:00.001+08:00

Real Madrid remain the world's richest soccer club while English clubs have been hit by the declining value of the pound, according to accountancy firm Deloitte's annual survey.

Manchester United and Barcelona held their respective second and third positions in the latest "Football Money League" report on the world's 20 biggest soccer clubs ranked by revenue.

"If the exchange rate value of the pound had not depreciated, there would have been nine, rather than seven English clubs in the top 20 and Manchester United would have topped the Money League ahead of Real Madrid," said Dan Jones, partner in the Sports business group at Deloitte.

The impact of the current economic downturn on club revenues was not measured in the report from the 2007-08 season.

But top clubs should weather the crisis, thanks to loyal fan bases and long-term broadcast and sponsors contracts, Deloitte said.

"The unique nature of the football industry will enable major clubs to be relatively resistant to the economic downturn," said Paul Rawnsley, director in the sports business Group

Primera Liga champions Real Madrid saw their revenues rise by four percent to 366 million euros.

Manchester United, the Premier League and Champions League winners, posted a 21 percent increase in revenues to 324.8 million euros.

The top 20 clubs' aggregate revenue grew by six percent to 3.9 billion euros in 2007-08.

The ranking was dominated by European clubs, with the number of English clubs growing to seven from six, four from both Germany and Italy and two each from Spain and France.

Fenerbahce became the first Turkish club to feature in the ranking since its creation in 1996-97.

Bayern Munich, whose revenues were boosted by the club acquiring the entire ownership of its home ground, climbed three places to fourth, reaching the top places for the first time in five years. Chelsea dropped one place to fifth.

Celtic, Valencia and Werder Bremen dropped out.

Manchester City climbed to 20th position largely due to the increase in broadcast revenues received from the Premier League before the club's take over by the Abu Dhabi-based owners.

Elano happy to be able to show off talents

2009-02-12T19:26:00.002+08:00

Brazil midfielder Elano insists he has nothing to prove to Manchester City.

Elano has struggled for first-team opportunities at City this season and has mostly been used as a substitute amid strong rumours of a fall-out with manager Mark Hughes.

Elano was fined by City boss Mark Hughes in November for speaking out about his lack of first-team appearances in a specially arranged television interview and was linked with a move away from Eastlands in the winter transfer window.

The 27-year-old shone in Brazil's friendly against Italy on Tuesday, linking well with City team-mate Robinho and scoring a well-worked 13th-minute opener.

"Of course, it gives me a lot of strength, a lot of fight," said Elano. "I am very hungry to show what I am capable of, to show that I can be useful, and I think I proved that.

"But I do not have to prove anything to anyone. I only try to prove it to myself and, because I work hard every day, I know how difficult it is.

"However, that is all I can say. I am a lucky man and in important games I always end up appearing."

Robinho and Elano have only started 13 of City's 29 games since Robinho's debut, recording six wins including a 6-0 victory over Portsmouth and a 5-1 rout of Hull.

However, Elano was cautious in criticising Hughes' decisions again.

"The Manchester City coach also believes in me," he continued. "But he has his way of putting the team on the pitch and I respect that because that's the way it is.

"But I will continue to work hard so I can get into his plans and play, because what can you do? I have to work and do my best.

"Because if I give up and leave everything will be worse for me.

"I never choose to act different. I always try to do my best wherever I play."

La Furia Tame Fabio's Lions

2009-02-12T08:33:00.000+08:00

A superior Spain side beat England 2-0 in Seville as David Beckham claimed his 108th cap, equalling the outfield record held by Bobby Moore.

David Villa opened the scoring on 36 minutes, Xabi Alonso playing the decisive pass after Everton defender Phil Jagielka - making his full debut for the virus-stricken Rio Ferdinand - gave the ball away to the Liverpool ace.

And substitute Fernando Llorente, on for Fernando Torres, headed home a second eight minutes from time following a superb free-kick by midfield dynamo Xavi.

West Ham striker Carlton Cole made his international bow late on and came closest to grabbing a consolation, rounding Liverpool keeper Jose Reina from Beckham's through-ball only to see his goal-bound shot cleared off the line by Carlos Marchena.

The passing and movement which was the hallmark of the home side's Euro 2008 success was again very much in evidence, Barcelona duo Xavi and Andres Iniesta linking with Alonso and Villarreal's deep-lying Marcos Senna, while Valencia goal-getter Villa also dropped off to pick up possession.

Reds boss Rafael Benitez cannot have been too happy to see his star man Torres start the match so soon after an injury, but he came through okay and impressed while not threatening to score.

There was a cracking atmosphere inside Sevilla's sold-out Ramon Sanzhez Pizjuan as the hosts came forward, playing one-touch football and seeking to unlock a compact England unit.

However it was the visitors who had the first chance, Gareth Barry - partnering Michael Carrick in the centre of midfield as he had in the friendly win over Germany in Berlin, with Frank Lampard on the bench - spinning away to cross for Gabriel Agbonlahor.

The Aston Villa striker, chosen in attack with club-mate Emile Heskey, stabbed his volley wide of the near post.

Spain had the ball in the net when the quick-thinking Iniesta played through Villa, but the pocket-sized front-man was a yard offside. Soon afterwards Torres saw a shot deflected into the air before a fortunate David James fluffed his simple catch but got away with it.

Jagielka then gave the ball away and Alonso moved it quickly to a position where he could find the incisive run of Villa, who turned the desperately retreating defender before finding the bottom corner.

England lost their momentum from that point and there were a host of changes at the break, including Beckham, while Reina and Alvaro Arbeloa of Liverpool appeared for Spain.

Shaun Wright-Phillips, who along with Agbonlahor looked good on the break without truly threatening in the first half, had to turn in some sterling defensive work after moving to the left to accommodate Beckham with full-back Sergio Ramos constantly attacking the by-line.

The Manchester City wide-man began a spell of promise for England when Beckham found him down the left channel; he cut inside Ramos and fired a curling shot too close to Reina.

Shortly after Lampard, on for Barry, headed straight at the keeper from an Agbonlahor cross, and until Hammers star Cole's late effort that was as good as it got for England.

Spain made sure of the win in front of their celebrating supporters - the locals were witnessing their 'rootless' national side in the city for the first time in eight years - when Athletic Bilbao striker Llorente rose to thump a header past the reaching fingers of Robert Green, who had appeared at half-time for James.

Beckham, who left his foot in on Gerard Piquet and received a dose of retribution soon after from Arbeloa, was booked for dissent in injury-time.

The defeat ends England manager Fabio Capello's 11-month unbeaten run, while Spain boss Vicente del Bosque continues the good work done by Luis Aragones last summer.

Both sides top their respective World Cup qualifying groups with four wins from four.

It's Robinho Show

2009-02-11T08:54:00.000+08:00

What a WONDERFUL goal by Man City player Robinho.

Chelsea sack Scolari

2009-02-09T17:05:00.000+08:00

Chelsea have sensationally sacked manager Luiz Felipe Scolari after just seven months in charge.

The 59-year-old Brazilian arrived in West London last July, but the club's poor form and rumours of discontent in the dressing room have seen his position undermined.

Chelsea's results at home have been particularly disappointing, winning just six of 13 games at Stamford Bridge in the Premier League.

Saturday's goalless draw at home to Hull City saw them slip to fourth in the table, seven points behind leaders Manchester United.

Nevertheless the dismissal of Scolari, who won the 2002 World Cup with Brazil and reached the Euro 2004 final with Portugal, comes as a major shock.

Chelsea have reached the last 16 of the Champions League where they face a Juventus side managed by former Stamford Bridge boss Claudio Ranieri, and they are still in the FA Cup.

Scolari started brightly with six wins and two draws from his first eight league games and they led the table most weeks until the middle of November.

However, Liverpool won 1-0 at Stamford Bridge on October 26 to end Chelsea's 86-match unbeaten home league run and their home form, in particular, began to dip alarmingly with another loss to Arsenal at the end of November and a series of poor draws.

Scolari's substitutions were also questioned by fans, who taunted him on Saturday with cries of "you don't know what you're doing".

The club, who won back-to-back titles under Jose Mourinho in 2005 and 2006 and were beaten on penalties in last season's Champions League final by Manchester United, slipped further back in the title race when they were beaten 3-0 by United and 2-0 by Liverpool recently.

Scolari's assistant Ray Wilkins takes temporary charge of the first-team, but one of the favourites to take over permanently is West Ham manager and former Blues legend Gianfranco Zola, who has been voted the greatest player the club's history.

Russia manager Guus Hiddink and Avram Grant - the man sacked by Chelsea last May after reaching the Champions League final - are also believed to be on the shortlist.

A club statement said: "The Chelsea board would like to place on record our gratitude for his time as manager.

"Felipe has brought many positives to the club since he joined and we all feel a sense of sadness that our relationship has ended so soon.

"Unfortunately the results and performances of the team appeared to be deteriorating at a key time in the season.

"In order to maintain a challenge for the trophies we are still competing for we felt the only option was to make the change now.

"The search for a new manager has already started and we hope to have someone in place as soon as possible."

Wright-Phillips banned for kick

2009-02-09T15:18:00.000+08:00

Manchester City winger Shaun Wright-Phillips has been suspended for three league games after being found guilty of violent conduct by the FA.

The 27-year-old was charged after an incident that saw Stoke's Rory Delap sent off during City's 1-0 defeat at the Britannia Stadium on January 31.

Referee Martin Atkinson did not see all of the altercation but, after watching video footage, informed the FA he would have shown Wright-Phillips a red card for violent conduct had he spotted the incident.

Wright-Phillips will therefore miss City's next three Premier League matches - all away from home - at Portsmouth on Saturday, against Liverpool on February 22 and at West Ham on March 1.

He will, however, be available for the two-legged UEFA Cup last-32 encounter with FC Copenhagen later this month.

Portsmouth sack Adams

2009-02-09T14:39:00.000+08:00

Premier League strugglers Portsmouth have sacked manager Tony Adams after a slump in form which has left them in danger of relegation.

The club said in a statement that first team coach John Metgod had also left, with director of youth operations Paul Hart appointed caretaker coach.

Former England captain Adams, 42, had been in charge at Fratton Park for just over three months after taking over when Harry Redknapp joined Tottenham Hotspur.

Portsmouth were well-placed in the top half of the table but have taken only two points from their last nine league matches and are 16th in the standings, one point above the relegation zone.

The south coast club lost 3-2 at home to title challengers Liverpool on Saturday despite leading 2-1 with five minutes remaining.

"This has been a very difficult decision and Tony has worked tirelessly to arrest the slump in form," the club said. "He is rightfully highly-respected within the football world and played a major role in our FA Cup triumph last season.

"The owner and board feel they have been as supportive as they can during a period where results have been poor. The team has played well but too many points have been dropped from winning positions.

"The priority for Portsmouth Football Club is to remain in the top flight and we feel the appointment of a new manager will give us the best opportunity to enable us to do this."

Portsmouth won four of their 21 games in all competitions under Adams, drawing six and losing 11.

Adams spent his entire playing career at Arsenal where he was part of a miserly defence comprising Lee Dixon, Steve Bould and Nigel Winterburn. He won 66 caps for England.

After retiring in 2002 Adams became manager of Wycombe Wanderers the following year before resigning a year later.

He broadened his knowledge of the game during a spell as a trainee coach with Dutch side Feyenoord and joined Redknapp's coaching staff at Portsmouth in 2006 as assistant manager.

Adams is the seventh Premier League manager to leave this season after Alan Curbishley, Kevin Keegan and Roy Keane quit West Ham United, Newcastle United and Sunderland respectively, Redknapp left Portsmouth to replace Juande Ramos at Spurs and Paul Ince was sacked by Blackburn Rovers in December.

Liverpool's #7,who's next??

2009-02-04T20:23:00.002+08:00

Who gonna wear this Liverpool #7 shirt after Robbie Keane moved to his old club Tottenham Hotspur last week??

The shirt is iconic to Liverpool football club having been sported by Vladimir Smicer,Ian Callaghan, Kevin Keegan and Kenny Dalglish.

Robbie Keane(July 2008-Feb 2009)

Harry Kewell(2003-2008)

Bayern Will Let Ribery Join Madrid

2009-02-02T10:18:00.000+08:00

Franck Ribery could be persuaded to join Real Madrid in the summer by Zinedine Zidane if Florentino Perez's presidential master-plan works, according to a report.

The man that created the Galactico era is preparing to run for the top job at the Bernabeu once again and is putting an audacious plan in place with Zidane at the forefront.

Perez will ask the French legend to help attract his compatriots to the club, starting with Bayern Munich wing wizard Ribery and the plan is gaining momentum, L'Equipe state.

There has been speculation about which players the candidates will offer to the fans in order to win them over but nobody has officially confirmed that they are running.

Ribery has been strongly linked with a summer move to Barcelona and it was reported in the Spanish media that technical secretary Txiki Begiristain had been in Munich laying the groundwork.

But Perez's involvement would create a struggle between la Primera's big two and, with Zidane on one side, Madrid could have the upper hand when and if negotiations do begin.

There is no certainty that Perez will run again despite being a clear favourite because his family are not keen on the idea of his involvement given the time needed to administer Real Madrid.

Liverpool Can Win Title - Mourinho

2009-01-25T12:31:00.000+08:00

Former Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho believes Liverpool possess "everything they need" to claim the Barclays Premier League title this season.

Rafael Benitez's Reds sit second in league, level on points with leaders Manchester United but behind on goal difference having also played one game more.

While firmly in the title race, Liverpool have been guilty of squandering points at home to less-fancied opposition this season, but Mourinho, now the boss of Inter Milan, believes they can keep their championship challenge on track.

"It has been interesting watching Liverpool this season," Mourinho wrote in the Sunday Telegraph. "I think they have everything they need to win the title.

"I still can't understand why they didn't do it in the last four years. Why wouldn't they be able to do it this season? Of course they can.

"The manager is good, the players are good, the crowd is unique, the tradition of the club is big, so why can't they do it? I think they can."

Mourinho warned, however, that the resumption of the Champions League at the end of next month could again be a distraction for the Anfield club.

"Usually it is when the Champions League starts that they lose their focus on the Premiership," he continued. "It was like this in previous years when they did very well in the Champions League but they lost too many points in the championship.

"They have already lost 10 points at home by drawing the kind of matches they used to win. Against Stoke, Fulham, West Ham, Hull and Everton it has been two points lost. So if you can imagine that they had those 10 points now, they would be top of the league."

The Portuguese also played down the recent spat between Benitez and United manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

"As for these stories I read about Rafael Benitez and Alex Ferguson exchanging words, this is all part of the game," he said.

"It is part of the fight you have to make to win a title, part of the pressure that managers try and put on other managers, clubs and structures to try to get an advantage.

"I think Benitez and Ferguson respect each other and both know they are contenders for the title. I don't think it is personal."

Meanwhile, Mourinho hailed the decision of Kaka to snub the advances of Manchester City and remain in Serie A with AC Milan.

"I am happy that Kaka didn't go there," he said. "I want the best players to be in my league. I want my league to be as strong as possible and of course Kaka is absolutely top.

"It would have been very, very bad for Italian football if Kaka had left Serie A.

"When a player like him decides to join City it will be because they have proved there is a big project; because I don't think a player like Kaka is going to leave a club like Milan because of one euro more or one euro less."

Giggs set for new United deal

2009-01-25T11:09:00.000+08:00

The 35-year-old's current deal is due to expire at the end of the season, and the midfielder has hinted he could retire in May.

However, after continuing to impress in his 19th year at Old Trafford, Ferguson plans to extend the Welshman's stay.

The Scot told the Sunday Mirror: "Ryan will be offered a new contract of course. He has been fantastic for us this season - he seems to be getting even better with age.

"He could win the Footballer of the Year award and it would be fitting if he did after the career he has had.

"He seems to be one of those rare people who find that age and injuries don't catch up with them."

Ronaldo's A Show Off, Gerrard's The Best - Guus Hiddink

2009-01-25T09:20:00.000+08:00

To most observers, Manchester United winger Cristiano Ronaldo was the obvious choice for the 2008 FIFA World Player of the Year award.

The Portuguese star netted 42 goals in all competitions as he helped the Red Devils champions of England and Europe, and even those - and there are many - who despise him as a person cannot overlook his footballing exploits of last year.

Russia boss Guus Hiddink, however, reckons the rest of the international game's coaches and captains were duped by the 23-year-old's flashy style and magazine-cover appearance.

"Cristiano Ronaldo is a good-looking footballer, he looks fit and, oh yes, his hair is always in place. But him winning the award is too much about glamour," Hiddink said in The Daily Mail.

Some have suggested that Lionel Messi could have pipped Ronaldo, due to his performances for Barcelona in the second half of the year and his success at the Olympics with Argentina last summer.

The Blaugrana sensation polled second in the award, though, while Fernando Torres took out third after a brilliant debut season with Liverpool.

But nor does Hiddink think either of these two young superstars deserved to be crowned the greatest player on the planet, for he believes Torres' skipper at Anfield should have got the nod.

"I very much preferred (Steven) Gerrard. He has superb technical and tactical qualities and I admire his spirit and attitude on the pitch," the Dutchman said.

"It has everything to do with his passion for the game and my passion for football. He is a player who fans can identify themselves with and a man who carries the love for his club on his club badge.

"There is not another player in the world who combines all those qualities. He is the type of player who appeals so much more to me than Cristiano Ronaldo.

"Of course, Ronaldo entertains the crowds and has great skills. But it is too much glamour and show. Gerrard, Barcelona's Xavi and Messi are not as much focused on themselves. They focus on the team."

No prizes for guessing who Hiddink's top three were, then.

Chelsea: Ballack will stay

2009-01-24T19:35:00.000+08:00

Chelsea are convinced Michael Ballack will be part of their squad next season even though the Germany international's current contract expires in the summer.

Ballack underlined his importance to Chelsea with two goals against Ipswich to help the Blues secure a place in the fifth round of the FA Cup.

While the club are expected to offer the 32-year-old a one-year extension incorporating a lower salary and bigger bonuses, it is understood that Ballack would like a two-year deal.

But Chelsea's assistant coach Ray Wilkins insists the player will still be with the club next season and revealed that a knock sustained in training almost prevented the Germany captain from playing against Town.

"I would have thought Michael would be in our plans for next season," said Wilkins.

"He's a top quality player and that's what the club have been bringing in.

"It was very doubtful whether Michael would make today. He took a nasty kick training, he was scanned on Friday and was very doubtful.

"But the professional in him meant he turned up still feeling extremely sore, but he really wanted to play.

"He was very good in the game. Michael covers probably more ground than anybody else in our side.

"When he goes forward he is extremely dangerous and the work he puts in for the team is untouchable."

Liverpool set for takeover?

2009-01-23T17:20:00.000+08:00

Anfield Stadium,Liverpool

Liverpool's co-owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett have attempted to start an auction for the Anfield club.

While it has emerged that one of the world's richest dynasties are in talks over a possible £500m takeover, it is also clear that the Kuwaiti Al-Kharafi family are not interested in purchasing just a minority share, as has been suggested.

Hicks and Gillett have appointed rival banks to try to find potential buyers - Merrill Lynch are working for Hicks while Gillett has appointed Rothschilds.

There is already believed to be one European party that wants to discuss a deal, and if the two banks can find further suitors, the American co-owners may be able to force a sale in excess of £500m.

It has emerged that Hicks sanctioned talks this week with the Al-Kharafi family, initially over funding for the club's new stadium but then for a possible takeover.

Gillett is thought to have been initially unaware of the talks, held with the club's commercial director Ian Ayre and financial director Phillip Nash.

Both are considered to be allies of Hicks in the on-going divorce between the club's owners.

A source close to the deal said: ''Hicks has been trying to sell his assets, and that is believed to include Texas Rangers, while Gillett has cut back on his NASCAR involvement.

''Liverpool was almost sold to the Al-Kharafi family in November, it only needed a signature, but they walked away. Hicks is believed to have been furious.''

Now the deal has been resurrected.

The Al-Kharafi family's wealth is estimated at £8bn, and they had previously been involved in talks to buy Newcastle.

They are led by two brothers, Nasser and Jassem, but the planned purchase of Liverpool is likely to be a project overseen by one of their sons.

And it has also emerged that Nasser claims to be a Liverpool fan.

He attended Liverpool College of Commerce before graduating with a Bachelor of the Arts degree in business administration.

Hicks and Gillett both now plan to attend the home game with Chelsea on February 1 when their objectives will be clearer, and they are also likely to try to revive contract negotiations with manager Rafael Benitez.

It is now accepted that Liverpool will have to be sold by July, with there being no chance of the Royal Bank of Scotland refinancing the co-owners' £350m loan taken out to buy the club two years ago.

That loan was extended for six months at the beginning of the year, but the source said: ''Hicks has been told time is running out, the clock is ticking.''

They added: ''Hicks knows that RBS will not refinance the original deal.''

Gillett, who wanted to sell to Dubai International Capital last season only to be thwarted by Hicks, is understood not to be planning to block this current move in retaliation.

In the 50-50 partnership, both sides must agree on a deal to sell. Gillett could block it, but business requirements will take precedence.

The Americans know they must find a buyer or a new financial arrangement with another bank - or see RBS take control themselves.

In the current climate no other bank is likely to take on such a new loan, while RBS's involvement in control of Liverpool would also put the Government in a difficult position considering they now own a majority stake.

Villa agree £3.5m Heskey fee

2009-01-23T15:24:00.000+08:00

Aston Villa have confirmed they have agreed a £3.5 million fee with Wigan for striker Emile Heskey.

Wigan have already compensated for the loss of their target man by signing Middlesbrough's Egyptian front man Mido on loan for the rest of the season.

Heskey initially indicated that he was prepared to stay with the Latics until the end of his current contract in the summer.

But the lure of playing again under O'Neill - and the possibility of Champions League football next season - appears to be too strong to resist.

Heskey first flourished as a teenager under O'Neill at Leicester during the second half of the 1990s and helped them to secure League Cup triumphs in 1997 and 2000.

Heskey eventually made an £11m move to Liverpool shortly after the second of those wins but he has always retained a strong bond with O'Neill.

It has been common knowledge that the Villa manager wanted to sign Heskey and he would provide competition for Gabriel Agbonlahor and John Carew, who is on his way back to fitness after a back problem.

Heskey's signing would represent O'Neill's first capture of the January transfer window as he looks to sustain a challenge for a top four spot in the Premier League.

A source close to Villa said: "The club is hopeful of something being completed for Heskey after the two clubs spoke yesterday.

"It is common knowledge that Martin has always been a big admirer of the player and Villa are hopeful something could be concluded in the next 24 hours."

O'Neill said of the striker: "It would be very difficult not to support someone who was brilliant for you. He was a young kid at Leicester and was fantastic.

Hull sign £5m Bullard

2009-01-23T14:37:00.001+08:00

The 30-year-old has signed a four-and-a-half-year contract at the KC Stadium, after passing a medical and agreeing personal terms.

Bullard has been in superb form this season, earning a call-up to Fabio Capello's England squad.

Hull manager Phil Brown said: "We're trying to improve a squad that has been competing in the Premier League and that just needed a bit of bolstering.

"I think this signing shows everybody just how serious Paul Duffen, Phil Brown and Hull City are with regards to this year's Premier League."

Bullard is Hull's fourth signing of the January transfer window, following the arrivals of Kevin Kilbane, Manucho - on loan from Manchester United - and the permanent capture of on-loan defender Kamil Zayatte from Young Boys

De Jong agrees City switch

2009-01-21T17:51:00.000+08:00

Netherlands midfielder Nigel de Jong is understood to have joined Manchester City from Hamburg on a four-and-a-half-year deal.

Tottenham to sign £14m Palacios

2009-01-21T15:50:00.000+08:00

The 24-year-old defensive midfielder has been in sensational form for Wigan this season, and his capture is a major coup for Spurs boss Harry Redknapp.

The signing will come as a relief to Tottenham, who feared that Manchester City could make a last-minute bid for Palacios, having already outbid them to sign Craig Bellamy from West Ham.

Although the Honduran went through the formalities of gain a work permit when he signed for Wigan, employment laws dictate that he must obtain a new one every time he signs a contract.

A statement on Spurs' official club website confirmed: "We are delighted to announce that we have reached agreement for the transfer of Wilson Palacios from Wigan Athletic.

"Personal terms have been agreed and a medical completed, we now await the Honduran international receiving his work permit before completing his registration."

Pennant joins Portsmouth

2009-01-21T04:37:00.000+08:00

Winger Jermaine Pennant has joined Portsmouth on loan from Liverpool until the end of the season.

Pennant was expected to move to Pompey last week, after the clubs agreed terms for a player signed by the Reds for £6.7million from Birmingham in July 2006.

The 26-year-old was subsequently reported to prefer to stay at Anfield, but Portsmouth have revealed on their official website that they have got their man after all.

Kilbane completes Hull move

2009-01-15T14:54:00.001+08:00

The 31-year-old Republic of Ireland international has agreed a two-and-a-half year deal at the KC Stadium after passing a medical.

Kilbane, who had fallen down the pecking order at Wigan, could make his Hull debut in Saturday's Premier League clash against Arsenal.

Kilbane is Hull's first signing of the January transfer window, but more are set to follow as boss Phil Brown looks to strengthen his squad.

Givet Joins Blackburn

2009-01-15T12:42:00.001+08:00

Marseille defender Gael Givet has joined Blackburn on loan until the end of the season.

Rovers have the option of signing the 27-year-old on a permanent basis at the end of his loan spell, according to a statement on Marseille's website, www.om.net.

Givet, who can play at left-back or at centre-back and has been capped by France, has not played a single match for OM this season.

FIFA World Player Award

2009-01-12T21:18:00.000+08:00

Cristiano Ronaldo beat off competition from Lionel Messi, Xavi, as well as Fernando Torres, and last year’s winner Kaka, to win the FIFA World Player of the Year Award with a total of 935 vote points.

In second place was Barcelona star Lionel Messi with 678, while Liverpool striker Fernando Torres finished third with 203.

AC Milan star Kaka was not far behind in fourth with 183, while Barcelona's Xavi ended up fifth with 155.

The attacking wideman had a magnificent 2007/08 season, scoring 42 goals for Manchester United, and capturing the Premier League, Champions League and European Golden Boot. He followed this up this term by lifting the Club World Cup in Japan.

Ronaldo caps off a clean sweep of the major awards, having also picked up the prestigious Ballon d'Or (European Footballer of the Year) at the end of 2008.

FIFA World Player 2008 Award

UEFA president Michel Platini

Football legend Pele opens the envelope to reveal that Manchester United's Cristiano Ronaldo is the winner

FIFA World Player Of The Year,Cristiano Ronaldo(Manchester United & Portugal)

2nd Runner Lionel Messi(Barcelona & Argentina)

3rd Runner-Up Fernando Torres(Liverpool & Spain)

Football star Ronaldo escapes injury in horror smash

2009-01-09T13:24:00.000+08:00

Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo walked away unscathed Thursday despite writing off his Ferrari in a spectacular car crash near Manchester airport.

His luxury sports car's front end was smashed to pieces and it lost a wheel as he collided with a roadside barrier while driving to training, the morning after a disappointing defeat for his team.

Ronaldo's team-mate Edwin van der Sar, United's goalkeeper, was following in his Bentley at the time of the crash but was not involved in the collision, said police.

Skid marks were clearly visible leading up to the crash scene, and a photographer who arrived shortly afterwards described the 23-year-old Portugal winger's bright-red car as a "terrible mess."

But Greater Manchester Police said no one had been injured. "Officers attended and discovered a Ferrari had collided with a barrier," a statement said. "No one is believed to have been injured."

Witness Jody Lomax was driving behind Ronaldo when the collision occurred.

"The Ferrari went straight into the wall, his front left-hand wheel came off and then Ronaldo got out of the car," he said, according to the BBC.

"I was shocked. Anyway he was all right, he was walking -- he was a bit shaken... Obviously I was stunned at seeing a Ferrari go in the wall and seeing Ronaldo."

A spokeswoman for United said Ronaldo, the 2008 winner of the prestigious Ballon d'Or award, had not required treatment for shock or any other injuries and would be fit to play in Sunday's Premier League showdown with Chelsea.

"Cristiano is fine," the spokeswoman said. "It was on his way to training. He did not receive any treatment. He has trained this morning with the team and is OK."

Police officer Nigel Snell said that, given the damage to the car, it was "fortunate" that Ronaldo was not injured.

"We are trying to establish exactly what happened and I would appeal to anyone that may have witnessed the collision to contact police," he said, cited by the BBC.

Ronaldo played as a second-half substitute in United's 1-0 defeat away to Derby County in the first leg of the League Cup semi-final on Wednesday.

Barring any delayed reaction to the crash, he will be back in the starting line-up for Sunday's match at Old Trafford as United seek to overcome one of their major rivals in the battle to retain the Premier League trophy.

Marca Hype Tevez To Real Madrid Link

2009-01-06T16:54:00.001+08:00

Cristiano Ronaldo may have been target 'no 1' in the summer for the Spanish press, but it appears that this winter they are moving on to the more gruff look of Carlos Tevez.

The Argentine has been rumoured to be leaving Manchester United for a few weeks now, but flames have been fanned recently, most significantly by Marca, sparking a story into a saga.

The oft-criticised, and much lambasted, Spanish newspaper, is already public enemy 'numero uno' in the red half of Manchester, but they are bidding to make themselves even less popular today by running headlines about a transfer for Tevez.

Not only have they run headlines about the 'passiveness of Manchester United', but they have also declared that the forward is 'on the market', and 'wanting Real Madrid.'

Whilst many of these claims can be backed up by quotes from the player himself, who said just today that it would be a 'pleasure' to play for Real Madrid, there is no doubt that Marca are almost urging the player to come to the Spanish capital.

Indeed, the only other main paper who has the story is AS, who quote the Argentine as saying 'I would love to play for Real Madrid', and pick through some of the better comments from the forward.

This point is symptomatic of the way that Marca, a Madrid based newspaper, is becoming part of the transfer deal for Real Madrid, and is almost orchestrating deals.

In the summer they so nearly unsettled Ronaldo enough for him to leave Old Trafford, and with the fresh smell of blood in the air, they are yet again on the prowl.

Wayne Bridge To City

2009-01-06T03:14:00.004+08:00

New signing Wayne Bridge is unveiled by City chairman Gary Cook

New Manchester City signing Wayne Bridge believes his best years are still ahead of him. The 28-year-old completed his move from Chelsea on Saturday for a fee believed to be in the region of £10million.

Defoe on his way to Spurs

2009-01-05T17:06:00.001+08:00

The Daily Mail, that most reliable London-based newspaper, reports that Portsmouth last night agreed to sell Jermain Defoe to Tottenham Hotspur for a fee of just under £15 million.

The England striker moved from White Hart Lane to Fratton Park only a year ago, having become frustrated at being stuck behind Robbie Keane and Dimitar Berbatov in the pecking order.

But neither the Irishman nor the Bulgarian are now among the Lilywhites, having moved to Liverpool and Manchester United respectively for a combined sum of £50 million last summer.

And so Defoe is eager to return to North London and reunite with Harry Redknapp, the man who unearthed him at West Ham United 10 years ago before bringing him to Pompey.

The South Coast club paid around £7.5 million for the Beckton-born goal-sneak, meaning they are set to make a very welcome profit if the deal goes through as expected.

In addition, Spurs have supposedly agreed to waive the outstanding amount owed for Younes Kaboul, the French defender who also moved to Portsmouth last January.

David Beckham unveiled as AC Milan Player

2008-12-22T21:03:00.003+08:00

When Milan announced that they had signed David Beckham from the Los Angeles Galaxy on a loan-deal, the critics were divided. Some believed it was simply a publicity stunt, while others insisted the English international had something to offer the Rossoneri on the field.

"Beckham is officially a Milan player, even if it's for a short time," Milan vice president Adriano Galliani told Sky Sports at the match against Udinese.

"He's a player we already tried to sign in 2007, but he chose to go to Los Angeles. Now he asked to come play for us, not just to train."

One of the reasons Beckham joined Milan was to stay in shape for the England national team set-up under Fabio Capello and Galliani revealed that Beckham has been taking care of himself.

"We're satisfied that he is in good physical condition," he explained. "He'll be here for nine league games and then we'll see if he will play in the UEFA Cup as he would only be available during the round of 16."

In any case, 'Golden Balls' seems intent at making an impact for Milan as soon as possible. His first glimpse of action could be against Roma, when Serie A resumes after the winter break.

Manchester United Star Cristiano Ronaldo Wins Ballon d'Or

2008-12-03T01:26:00.001+08:00

France Football has handed its prestigious Ballon d'Or award to Cristiano Ronaldo, a decision that will surprise no-one given his outstanding performances over the past 12 months.

The 23-year-old led Manchester United to the Premier League and Champions League titles last term, netting some 42 goals along the way - an incredible feat for a player who predominately plays on the right flank.

2008 Ballon d'Or Top Ten Classification

1. Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal/Manchester United) - 446 points

2. Lionel Messi (Argentina/Barcelona) - 281 pts

3. Fernando Torres (Spain/Liverpool) - 179 pts

4. Iker Casillas (Spain/Real Madrid) - 133 pts

5. Xavi Hernandez (Spain/Barcelona) - 97 pts

6. Andrei Arshavin (Russia/Zenit St. Petersburg) - 64 pts

7. David Villa (Spain/Valencia) - 55 pts

8. Kaka (Brazil/AC Milan) - 31 pts

9. Zlatan Ibrahimovic (Sweden/Inter) - 30 pts

10. Steven Gerrard (England/Liverpool) - 28 pts

Pink boots prove the world has gone mad

2008-11-28T02:29:00.002+08:00

Nicklas Bendtner's pink boots show you how mad the game has gone. In the old days you had to be a real individual to get away with wearing coloured boots and only a few people could get away with it.

I always wore black ones, but nowadays I think I'd be in a fairly small minority. When you see somebody like Gary Neville wearing white boots you know it has gone too far.

No offence to Gary, who replaced me as Manchester United right-back, but he is not the kind of player you instantly associate with flair and flashiness.

I tell you, no kid of mine would ever wear pink plastic boots. If I'm paying up to £100 for a pair of boots they have to be leather.

Plastic just doesn't have the same quality. If it did I'd be eating my dinner off Tupperware rather than bone china.

At least Bendtner added some colour to the otherwise dull, uncompetitive spectacle the Champions League has become.

With one round of group stage games remaining, all but three of the last 16 have been decided.

There has always been a problem with the format because it is suited to the best teams, and that comes at the expense of excitement and unpredictability.

You can almost guarantee who is going to go through as soon as the draw is made because it is carefully seeded to make sure there are only two strong teams in each group.

Of course you get the occasional upset - like Manchester United going out in the group stage in 2005/06 - but these days it seems like you are all but certain to get four Premier League teams, plus the usual suspects from Spain and Italy, in the latter stages.

Everything is geared towards getting the big teams to the knockout stages and even then the big teams are often kept apart as the group winners play the runners-up.

I would love to see a return to the old knockout format but I don't think that will ever happen.

It's not about the people who are watching in the stands, and that is shown by the plummeting attendances at clubs like Chelsea.

If crowds are down a few thousand it's not really a big deal compared to the amount of money that comes in from sponsorship and TV deals.

UEFA might eventually have to act if interest in the competition continues to wane, and the current economic crisis won't help either.

Kaká Wants Premier League Move?

2008-11-27T20:43:00.001+08:00

Robinho said after Brazil's recent 6-2 thumping of Portugal that he would "always help Kaka to overcome Cristiano Ronaldo".

The little attacker also said recently that, "If Kaká or any other great player wants to come [to Manchester City], the door is open."

Now, it's clear that Kaka has been listening to his countryman intently and could consider a move to Eastlands, and said Ronaldo battle would rumble on in Manchester.

The 26-year-old attacking midfielder has his mind firmly on City, even though he's preparing to face Portsmouth in the UEFA Cup on Thursday evening.

Asked about the Premier League by Sky Sports, he replied: "I know it is the best championship in the world. It's tough, but there's big players and I very much like the Premier League.

"So one day - I don't know when - it would be great to play in the Premier League.

"I have a lot of friends who are playing there, so I am watching some games.

"I speak with Robinho and Elano sometimes about Manchester City."

And there's few other sides - even Chelsea are set to be prudent in January - who can pay the kind of mega money that it'll take to land Kaka.

Citizens boss Mark Hughes urged fans to be realistic on Wednesday, but perhaps a swoop for the Milan midfielder isn't so out there after all!

Henry: I'd Love Gerrard Link-Up!

2008-11-21T02:05:00.002+08:00

.Gunners hero Theirry Henry has often stated that Anfield is a special footballing arena, prompting wild rumours that the striker would be packing his bags for Liverpool when the transfer window opened.

The Barcelona and France forward has now admitted that one of the footballers he admires the most, and one whom he wished he could play in the same side with, is Liverpool and England midfielder Steven Gerrard.

It is coming up to ten years since Gerrard made his debut in a Reds shirt, and Henry first played on the same pitch as the scouser in August 1999.

The Kid Comes Good

The north London side left Merseyside with zero points after suffering a 2-0 defeat, but Henry walked off the pitch asking international team-mate Patrick Vieira who the 'kid in midfield' was. The answer his compatriot gave was: "Steven Gerrard... He is going to be brilliant."

In an interview with Liverpool's official website, Henry also spoke of his relationship with the Reds' number 8, and what history will make of the influential Champions League winning 28-year old.

"I played against Liverpool and Stevie G many times, and when you appreciate a player so much and see them at every game, you talk. I always told him how much I admired him and he said the same to me. We exchanged numbers and kept in touch from there," Henry said, explaining how the pair's friendship blossomed.

Regarding the possibility of Henry playing for Liverpool alongside Gerrard, Arsenal's record goalscorer explained: "It was mentioned but it would have been difficult for me to go to another Premier League club after Arsenal. We talked about it but nothing was in it, really. It was just us talking about our wishes.

"He is an inspiration," Henry continued. "He reminds me of Patrick Vieira in that he doesn't talk too much. He just does what he does. He inspires Liverpool without talking. I find it a disgrace that he didn't win European Football of the Year in 2005 after Istanbul. For me, he is one of the best ever."

Gerrard = Liverpool

Concerning Gerrard's continuing status as a one-club man, Henry mentioned: "It happens more in England than in other countries. There is a thing in England where people want to play for their hometown team and be the local hero - be like the people they used to look up to."

Henry believes what Gerrard has accomplished in the game after ten years is 'amazing': "He has been everywhere for 10 years: putting his foot in, scoring goals, passing and being committed to his club. No one can ever doubt his commitment to Liverpool.

"He, for me, is Liverpool," the French legend concluded.

Mascherano named new Argentina captain

2008-11-11T10:16:00.001+08:00

Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano has agreed to captain Argentina under new coach Diego Maradona.

"I've convinced him," Maradona told Radio La Red after returning from a six-day trip to Europe during which he visited a number of his top players.

"I explained to him what I thought about him and told him what I thought he could give the team."

Mascherano, 24, initially said he did not feel ready to take on the responsibility.

Maradona is also hoping to make former defender Oscar Ruggeri his assistant despite media reports of opposition from Argentina Football Association president Julio Grondona.

"I don't think Oscar's impossible," said Maradona.

The choice of his assistant has already become a hot topic.

At one stage Maradona said Jose Luis Brown and Sergio Batista, team mates from the 1986 World Cup-winning side, would take on the role. But he then changed his mind, saying the decision was not final.

Ruggeri's recent coaching record would make him a controversial choice.

He resigned at Mexico's Tecos UAG after losing his first six games in 2003, then took charge of Independiente in his homeland before resigning four months later after being jeered and insulted by fans at a home game.

In 2004 he went to Spanish second division club Elche but was fired after 20 games. He returned to Mexico and joined America, the country's richest club, and this time lasted six matches.

Ruggeri's last coaching job was with San Lorenzo in 2006 where he was again fired after poor results including a 7-1 home defeat by Boca Juniors.

Benitez: Torres to return

2008-11-07T19:36:00.001+08:00

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has said star striker Fernando Torres is almost certain to make his comeback in the Premier League clash with West Brom at Anfield on Saturday.

The Spaniard has been missing due to a hamstring strain for six matches since the last international break on October 15.

However Benitez is confident that the 24-year-old goal-getter will return against the Midlands side.

"I believe Torres will be ready for the West Brom game at the weekend," Benitez, who allowed his player to judge whether he was fit for the midweek draw with his previous club Atletico Madrid, said.

"It all depends on Fernando: he was not happy with his fitness so he did not play against Atletico.

"He said he was not confident, so you cannot take any risks with a hamstring injury.

"I will talk to the player during the rest of the week to see how he is after each training session. But I will also talk with the physio and the doctor for their view.

"But (once again) how Fernando feels will be the key."

Reds captain Steven Gerrard, who grabbed the penalty equaliser against Atletico, cannot wait to see Torres back in action.

"Hopefully Fernando will be ready come the weekend - we have missed him," he said. "He has been training all week and things look hopeful.

"We need to take three points against West Brom, but (Saturday's 2-1 reverse to Tottenham) has been our only defeat this season and we are more than happy with the way the season has gone so far."

If Torres again fails to make the squad to face West Brom, Liverpool must decide whether to give him a run-out in the Carling Cup trip to Spurs next Tuesday, with a tough trip to Bolton on the Saturday, November 15.

Another international break is approaching fast with Spain having a home friendly against Chile at Villarreal on November 19.

Benitez has been in talks with the Spanish FA over Torres's treatment while he is with the national squad and a set of special exercises have been drawn up for him to carry out each day to help the hamstring heal properly.

Just whether Liverpool will tolerate another Spanish call-up for Torres at this time is open to debate, considering he has returned three times in 18 months from international duty with the same injury.

Liverpool And Arsenal Dream Of Xavi

2008-11-02T11:10:00.001+08:00

Having picked up the award for the best player at Euro 2008, Xavi's form shows no signs of abating as he continues to be one of Barca's most valuable players this season.

According to the Daily Mail, Liverpool and Arsenal harbour dreams of signing the Barca midfielder. A seemingly unlikely proposition at first, their interest is based on the reported disagreements arising in Xavi's current contract negotiations with Barca.

Xavi, whose current contract expires in 2010, is said to be less than satisfied with the latest terms offered by the club. An identified person close to Xavi is reported to have claimed that Barca's attitude during negotiations is "arrogant".

At the end of the day, however, Xavi and Barca are made for each other, and a deal between the two will surely eventuate. While his latest stellar performance against Malaga will interest the English further, it will also strengthen Barca's desire to keep the man from Terrassa, thus reducing Liverpool and Arsenal's efforts to remaining as mere dreams.

Champions League - Messi: Liverpool are favourites

2008-10-31T02:27:00.003+08:00

Liverpool's Robbie Keane celebrates his goal with Steven Gerrard and Albert Riera

"If I had to choose anyone it would be Liverpool," Messi told Gazzetta dello Sport.

"They have great players like Fernando Torres, Steven Gerrard, Dirk Kuyt and Javier Mascherano, and they are difficult to play against.

"Maybe there are teams that play better football but I see them in the final in Rome."

Messi and Atletico Madrid's Sergio Aguero are the latest in a line of Argentine playmakers to be called 'the new Maradona' and the pair are in the running for the Ballon d'Or.

When asked, Messi said Aguero would be worthy of winning the trophy, although he could not understand why club team-mate and Spain's Euro 2008 winner Andres Iniesta was not nominated.

"I don't know what I would give to be the first Argentine to win it," Messi admitted.

"But Torres and Xavi deserve it too. From Cristiano Ronaldo to Kaka, from Zlatan Ibrahimovic to Wayne Rooney, everyone is in the running.

"Iniesta is missing and I don't understand why. He is a genius."

Milan Ready To Move For Ramos

2008-10-29T02:20:00.000+08:00

The Spanish international is on the Rossoneri's Christmas wish list and he may arrive sooner rather than later according to the very latest reports coming from Iberia.

There has been plenty of hype surrounding Ramos' future at Los Merengues under Bernd Schuster and, although the press in Spain have been speaking of peace between coach and player, Radio Marca has other ideas.

Marca claim Ramos' brother and agent is meeting with Real Madrid officials to talk about a possible move to the club most interested in the defender, in this case it's Milan.

The Spanish stopper is looking for a new deal at the Bernabeu but it doesn't seem coming as the club are not willing to give the player what he wants in terms of a better wage package.

Reports suggest Ramos is becoming fed up of chasing the club over his future and, with Milan lying in wait, he may decide to pack his bags and move to San Siro.

Ramos would be an ideal transfer for Milan as he is only 22 and the Rossoneri will have no problem in accomodating his salary expectations. He would also be a replacement for the injury prone Alessandro Nesta as he can play in any position at the back.

Il Diavolo have always shown an interest and they are expected to pounce as early as the January transfer window.

Fergie: I Wanted A Liverpool Win

2008-10-29T02:17:00.000+08:00

Sir Alex Ferguson's busy week continues with his latest assertion that he wanted Liverpool to beat Chelsea at Stamford Bridge last weekend.

In his implication that he wanted Liverpool to win the table-top clash on Sunday, Ferguson seemed to be writing off the legitamacy of Rafa Benitez's bid for the title.

Arguably, the Manchester United manager still considers both Chelsea and Arsenal to be his side's closest competitors, although United still lie eight points from Liverpool, who are top by a clear margin of three.

Ferguson stirred trouble on Friday when he implied that Liverpool did not have the requisite quality to defeat Chelsea on their own turf; he predicted a close match but stated that Arsenal were a more likely vanquisher of the Blues at the Bridge.

At the time, he told the press: "Sunday's game will be very tight, not many goals in it. But Arsenal could win there because they've got the quality to win."

In the wake of the match, Ferguson delighted in Chelsea's defeat as it leaves the pretenders to the Premier League throne sitting close to Manchester United, within five points, with 29 matches still to play.

He told reporters in reference to Liverpool's narrow 1-0 win: "That was the result I wanted."

Maradona to become next coach of Argentina

2008-10-28T11:08:00.000+08:00

Argentinian football legend Diego Maradona is set to be named coach of the national side after he came out of a meeting with Argentinian Football Association president Julio Grondona on Tuesday.

The Albicelestes have been without a coach since Alfio Basile stepped down for personal reasons on October 16 and although Grondona has yet to announce it to the press, reports suggest that the official presentation will take place on Thursday.

Former Argentina coach Carlos Bilardo was also at the meeting, and it is understood he could become a technical director in the new set-up.

Maradona told Radio La Red: "My first job will be watching the players. I'll try to talk to them one by one and then work at the training camp in Ezeiza with them.

"I arrived from Georgia at 10am and three hours later I was having a shower to meet Julio (Grondona). As I was going to the meeting, I thought it was some kind of hidden camera (show).

"The direction Julio wants for the national team is the same Bilardo and I have. My job will be watching the players and picking up the ones who are in the best form."

Maradona has little coaching experience, having been in charge of Deportivo Mandiyu for two months in 1994 and Racing Club for four months in 1995.

Now, he faces the task of helping Argentina improve their form with the Albicelestes having won just one of their last seven World Cup qualifiers to lie third in the South American Zone.

Now Chelsea After Gareth Barry?

2008-10-27T22:49:00.001+08:00

Just as England star Gareth Barry appears to be getting back to his best in an Aston Villa shirt, reports of another mega bid for his services have surfaced.

Liverpool's pursuit of Barry was one of the many high-profile transfer sagas of the summer past and one that left a bitter taste in many mouths.

Villa boss Martin O'Neill fought tooth and nail to fight off the advances of Reds manager Rafael Benitez, eager to show Liverpool that his side were not a feeder for the established big four.

The relationship between Barry and MON subsequently deteriorated and the midfielder was stripped of the captain's armband. Benitez himself was left dazed and confused, the Spaniard not used to being rebuffed.

However, Chelsea coach Luiz Felipe Scolari thinks he can take on fiesty O'Neill in January, according to reports.

The Brazilian boss is ready to bring in the New Year with a £17m bid as he looks to bring more of England's elite talent to Stamford Bridge.

Ronaldo picks up top award

2008-10-27T09:39:00.000+08:00

Cristiano Ronaldo has been named FifPro World Footballer of the Year. It is the first in what is expected to be a host of individual honours for the 23-year-old, who scored 42 goals for Manchester United on their way to Champions League and Premier League title glory last term.

Ronaldo with one of his many awards last year.

Ronaldo had suggested last week he could do no more than he did to be crowned the best player on the planet and peers from over 40 countries are in agreement.

"To be recognised by my fellow professional players worldwide coming from over 50,000 players is amazing," the Portugal winger said.

"I would like to thank my teammates and coaches and everyone involved at Man United and the national team, as well as my family and friends for their support," Ronaldo said. "Thank you also to FIFPro for this award and for your work in protecting the interests and welfare of players around the world."

It is anticipated Ronaldo will also scoop the Ballon D'Or and the FIFA World Player of the Year award, with the Portugal international - who has also been named in FifPro's world team of the year - keen to remain at Old Trafford for another couple of seasons at least.

Liverpool end Chelsea's 86-game unbeaten home record

2008-10-26T23:34:00.002+08:00

Xabi Alonso's solitary first-half goal ended Chelsea's 86-game unbeaten home league record and put Liverpool three points clear at the top of the Barclays Premier League.

Alonso struck in the ninth minute when his 20-yard shot deflected off Jose Bosingwa and left Petr Cech wrong-footed.

It was Chelsea's first defeat under new boss Luiz Felipe Scolari, but Liverpool were always in charge of a pulsating contest at Stamford Bridge and look real title contenders on this form.

Chelsea had not been beaten at home since Arsenal's 2-1 success in February 2004 but Liverpool deserved their triumph with an impressive display.

Liverpool went ahead in the ninth minute with their first attack of the game.

Chelsea failed to deal with a thrown-in when John Terry could only half-clear Dirk Kuyt's clever back-header.

The ball fell to Alonso on the edge of the penalty area and his shot deflected off Chelsea right-back Bosingwa into the net.

the goalscorer,Xabi Alonso

Man Of the Match,Jamie Carragher

Liverpool's Captain Steven Gerrard(L) and Chelsea's Captain John Terry(R)

Chelsea's Frank Lampard stands dejected

Prem Preview: Chelsea - Liverpool

2008-10-25T11:10:00.007+08:00

What: Premier League, Matchday 9
Who: Chelsea vs. Liverpool
When: Sunday 26 October, 2008
Where: Stamford Bridge, Fulham

Chelsea Manager,Luiz Felipe Scolari
Chelsea Captain,John Terry
Liverpool Manager,Rafael Benitez
Liverpool Captain,Steven Gerrard

TEAM NEWS

Chelsea

The Blues’ form is all the more impressive when one considers their lengthy list of absentees. Michael Ballack, Michael Essien and Didier Drogba are all out, while England duo Joe Cole and Ashley Cole are also battling injury. On the plus side, Deco is set to make his first league start since mid-September, while key defender Ricardo Carvalho should line up alongside the also fit-again John Terry. Juliano Belletti is an outside chance to start in midfield after his impressive display against Middlesbrough last weekend.

Possible XI (4-3-3): Cech – Bosingwa, Terry, Carvalho, Bridge – Mikel, Lampard, Deco – Kalou, Anelka, Malouda.
beautiful blues
trademark celebrate goal by Frank Lampard
Player to Watch and new signing from Barcelona,Deco
Chelsea goal top scorer at EPL(4goals),Nicholas Anelka

Liverpool

The major absence for the Reds is, of course, Fernando Torres. The Spain striker suffered a hamstring tear while on World Cup duty and will remain on the sidelines this weekend. He is not Rafa Benitez’s only concern, though. Robbie Keane hobbled off the Vicente Calderon pitch on Wednesday with a groin complaint and will be subjected to a late fitness test. Expect Dirk Kuyt, who netted twice against Wigan, to reclaim a starting spot. Steven Gerrard and Xabi Alonso were also substituted against Atleti, but they are both expected to feature on Sunday.

Possible XI (4-2-3-1): Reina – Arbeloa, Carragher, Agger, Dossena – Mascherano, Alonso – Babel, Gerrard, Riera – Kuyt.
Comeback Kings
Liverpool goal machine,Dirk Kuyt
Player to Watch,Xabi Alonso
Liverpool goal top scorer at EPL(5goals),Fernando Torres

Henry to Liverpool?

2008-10-23T12:23:00.001+08:00

Thierry Henry looked like a right miserable devil last night, wearing a hoodie on the Barcelona bench as his team-mates thrashed Basel 5-0.

The feeling in Catalonia is that the Frenchman is a misfit and will be on his way before long.

Liverpool have spent like drunken sailors but still look a bit short up front following Dirk Kuyt's conversion to wing wizard and Robbie Keane's lukewarm start to life at Anfield.

If they can lose a couple of players from their hugely overstocked midfield, they might make a cheeky £10m bid for Henry.

It hardly needs saying that Manchester City are interested, as are Juventus, from whom Henry joined Arsenal.

The man who has nicked Henry's seat on the back of the French team bus (no, really, he has), Karim Benzema, remains an object of Manchester United's affection.

I Want To Play For England!

2008-10-23T11:17:00.000+08:00

Almunia has been in England for the best part of five years, having signed for Arsenal in 2004 after a relatively underwhelming career in his homeland.

Initially drafted in as a back-up to Jens Lehmann, the 31-year-old finally displaced his German counterpart last season and has gone on to cement his place as the Gunners' numero uno.

Almunia will be eligible for British citizenship next year and, should he take it, would be allowed to accept a call-up from Fabio Capello.

England's goalkeeping stocks have been thin of late, with Portsmouth's David James enjoying an extended run in the side after leapfrogging Paul Robinson and Scott Carson.

And Almunia said in The Sun: “The opportunity is there and I’ll follow it for as long as the possibility of playing for England remains open.

“I don’t think playing for Spain is an option — they have enough keepers — it’s not their biggest problem.

“If I got a British passport then I would be able to play for England and, at the moment, I feel very English.

“I am very happy living in this country. The people are always very welcoming and I have made many friends.”

Beckham set for winter-long AC Milan loan

2008-10-22T11:42:00.000+08:00

David Beckham could soon be playing in Serie A for Italian giants AC Milan if the club are successful in a bid to land the Los Angles Galaxy star on loan.

before: LA GALAXY

after: AC MILAN

The former England captain is determined to keep his place in the national team and a spell on loan in Europe during the Major League Soccer close season could be beneficial.

On Wednesday Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani said he was confident that Beckham would arrive at the San Siro, however it is understood the 33-year-old has yet to commit to the deal, which if confirmed is expected to begin in January.

Questioned by reporters at Milan's Malpensa airport, Galliani said: ''We are speaking with his agent but we believe he will arrive for some months on a free loan.''

''Beckham has chosen Milan. Our squad is ultra-competitive and it will remain this way, but Beckham is something different and intriguing.''

Beckham is under contract with LA Galaxy but their regular season finishes on Sunday after the club failed to reach the MLS's end of season play-offs, however Beckham would not be available immediately because of his key role in Galaxy's forthcoming promotional tour of Australia and New Zealand. Even so, with the transfer window closed Milan are unable to sign Beckham until the turn of the year.

Last weekend Galliani said that Beckham would be invited to train with Milan during the coming months in order retain his fitness and remain part of Fabio Capello's plans for the England national side, much as he did last season when he trained with Arsenal.

However, while Arsenal never sought to field Beckham in a competitive game, Milan are hoping to capitalise on the availability of the dead-ball specialist.

It is not the first time Beckham had been linked with the Rossoneri, with contact thought to have been made between the player's representatives and Milan before the player left Real Madrid for the United States in 2007.

Milan head coach Carlo Ancelotti has given the blessing for the former Manchester United midfielder to join up with his squad to provide more competition for places and is looking forward to working with Beckham, who won his 107th England cap in the World Cup qualifying victory over Belarus last week.

Ancelotti told the club's website:''For me it will be a pleasure, Beckham is a serious athlete, a great professional. If he is available for four months with us, we will be very happy.''

England boss Fabio Capello has been pleased with Beckham's contribution this year, although he has recently been a fringe member of the squad.

If Beckham moves to Milan - Capello's former club - then he will have the chance to demonstrate in Serie A that he remains a world-class player. Regular club football would almost certainly help his England prospects.

Rafa: Everybody Loves Amr

2008-10-21T07:11:00.000+08:00

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has hinted at a potential move for Amr Zaki as interest in the Wigan Athletic striker continues to grow...

Zaki has been an undisputed hit since arriving in England during the summer on a season-long loan from Zamalek.

The 25-year-old currently leads the Premier League goalscoring charts with seven strikes in eight appearances and his stock is rising rapidly.

Manchester City are reported to have already kicked off negotiations for Zaki, while a host of other clubs have also been tentatively linked with the Egyptian international.

Liverpool are the latest entrants into the race, having witnessed first-hand the former Lokomotiv Moscow man's talents as he bagged a brace at Anfield on Saturday.

"Everybody will be checking his situation now," Benítez told The Times.

Wigan are eager to sign Zaki permanently for a pre-agreed fee of £3million at the end of the season, but Zamalek are likely to scrap that deal if a significantly higher bid comes in.

Mourinho angling for return to England

2008-10-20T11:03:00.000+08:00

Jose Mourinho has fuelled the fires of speculation by saying he has unfinished business in England and revealed he expects to return to England when his time comes to an end at Internazionale.

Mourinho spent three years at Chelsea but unexpectedly left the post in September 2007 after a row with owner Roman Abramovich. Relations with the Russian are said to cordial again, especially after Abramovich bought Mourinho a £2 million limited edition Ferrari 612 Scaglietti in May.

Mourinho may well be interested in a job at Manchester United when Sir Alex Ferguson finally quits Old Trafford. The 45-year-old Portugese coach returned to management when he signed a three-year contract with Inter in June.

"I have a contract with Inter but when it ends I will probably return to the Premier League, a league I really like," he revealed.

Kop Comeback Kings

2008-10-19T02:19:00.005+08:00

Four times this season Liverpool have trailed late on but gone on to collect maximum points.

Steven Gerrard slammed home a 94th-minute winner as Liverpool claimed a dramatic 2-1 Premier League win

Liverpool 2-1 Man Utd.

Dirk Kuyt scored another late winner as Liverpool fought back from 2-0 down to beat Manchester City 3-2 in an entertaining clash.

Dirk Kuyt scored twice as Liverpool came from behind to snatch a 3-2 Premier League win against 10-man Wigan at Anfield

Having beaten Middlesbrough, Manchester United and Manchester City the hard way, Rafa Benitez's side once again dug deep to claim a win that had looked unlikely when Zaki sent the visitors into half-time with a 2-1 lead.

Beckham To Milan In January

2008-10-17T13:05:00.000+08:00

The England international was a target for Milan, but the club let him slip through their fingers.

Sources close to the player have told World Soccer Daily that Becks will now team up with the Rossoneri in January to keep his fitness up while he prepares for the new season in April 2009.

The winger trained with Premier League side Arsenal in January and he will now do the same with Milan in the new year.

Milan chief Adriano Galliani admits that his club could have signed him and he will try again when Beckham arrives at Milanello this season.

"If Beckham had stayed to play in Europe then we would have signed him. He would have been ours after his experience with Real Madrid, but it didn't happen," said Galliani.

Chelsea? Real Madrid? I'll Never Leave Milan - Kaka

2008-10-17T10:39:00.001+08:00

Kaka has revealed that he sometimes thinks of what it would have been like had he signed for the 'Blues' or 'Los Merengues'.

However, he insists that he will never leave Milan, no matter how much money is put on the plate.

"Passion, fun and feelings come before money and everyone knows I am very attached to Milan," Kaka told Il Corriere Dello Sport.

The day I leave is when we no longer have the same objectives. Until me and the club are on the same wavelength, no amount of money will ever tempt me away.

"Real Madrid are one of the most important teams in the world as is Chelsea but I believe in Milan and I like it here in Italy, the Italian league is great.

"Sometimes I think about what it would have been like to play at Chelsea or Madrid but this thought is then quickly dashed when I think that I have won the Champions League and World Club Cup with Milan, then my thoughts of ever leaving this club disappear."

Kaka was heavily linked with moves to both clubs in the summer but he decided to remain at Milan, even though he knew he would miss out on the Champions League.

Rafa Eyeing Shock Heskey Swoop?

2008-10-17T07:13:00.000+08:00

Heskey spent four seasons at Liverpool after joining for a then-record fee of £11million in 2000. The former Leicester City player scored 22 goals during his first full season on Merseyside and struck up an excellent partnership with Michael Owen, but his output gradually dwindled over the years and he was sold to Birmingham City in 2004.

Now, after several years in the wilderness, Heskey is making headlines with his exceptional performances alongside Wayne Rooney for England. Several clubs are reported to be interested, and Wigan Athletic boss Steve Bruce has confessed several times that he has little hope of holding onto the 30-year-old if the big boys come knocking.

Heskey revealed yesterday that he is desperate to play in the Champions League once again, and both the Daily Mail and The Sun claim that Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez is eager to give him that opportunity.

The Reds are in the market for a centre-forward, as they currently possess precious little cover for start striker Fernando Torres. David N'Gog is nexperienced, while Dirk Kuyt has found his niche on the right flank and Robbie Keane does his best work behind the front-man.

Benitez is a known admirer of unselfish, hard-working attackers - as evidenced by his willingness to spend over £30million on Kuyt and Keane - and would consider Heskey an ideal addition to his already potent squad.

People Should Keep Their Virginity Until Marriage - Kaka

2008-10-16T11:59:00.000+08:00

Milan and Brazil playmaker Kaka believes his decision to stay a virgin until he gets married should be an example to every youngster around the world...

Although the Rossoneri star is active on the training pitch, the same cannot be said in the bedroom department following his latest revelations.

Kaka, who is a very devoted Evangelist, believes it's right not to have sex before marriage and he has a message for all those who have their doubts.

"I am a great example. The majority of people say that after marriage, they don't like jumping into bed with their partner because there is no desires. However, this is not true, my wife is the person I love and it was worth waiting," Kaka told Fohla de Sao Paulo.

"A lot of people were surprised and shocked with me but I think it's the best decision. I am an evangelist and I believe in those values. I think people need to prevent themselves from making love before marriage.

"Of course, everyone has their own opinions but I think it was worth the wait."

Torres Out Of Atlético Reunion

2008-10-16T00:23:00.001+08:00

Spain forward Fernando Torres is almost all but certain to miss his Vicente Calderón homecoming next week after suffering an injury during the 1-2 win in Belgium in the World Cup qualifiers.

It would appear that Fernando Torres is just not meant to return to his old playground, the Vicente Calderón.

First, UEFA chose to shut down the venue for next Wednesday’s upcoming Champions League battle between Atlético Madrid and Liverpool. And while that decision was overturned in good sense, the player himself went and got injured during Spain’s 1-2 World Cup qualifying win over Belgium.

The 24 year old had to limp out of the pitch in tears after just 15 minutes when he sustained what looked like a hamstring pull in his left thigh while retrieving a high ball.

Óscar Celada, La Selección’s team doctor, was first to assessed the damage and he confirmed that El Niño will definitely be sidelined for at least ten days.

Vieira: Gerrard Is Best Midfielder

2008-10-15T00:48:00.003+08:00

Patrick Vieira believes Steven Gerrard is currently the best midfielder in the world - and that Cesc Fabregas will become the best in the future.

Ahead of the 2001 FA Cup final between Liverpool and Arsenal, Steven Gerrard described it as an honour to be on the same pitch as the Gunners’ powerful midfielder Patrick Vieira. The Frenchman was the gold standard for other midfielders to aspire, reckoned Gerrard.

So there is a neat symmetry about Vieira now telling skysports.com that he regards Gerrard as the best midfielder in the world today.

Ironically, Gerrard has recently been criticised for failing to reproduce his outstanding club form in an England shirt, and the Scouse idol could even be demoted to the substitutes' bench tomorrow night when England take on Belarus in their World Cup qualifier in Minsk.

But as far as Vieira, now at Internazionale in Milan, is concerned, 28-year-old Gerrard is one of the world’s greatest.

"The best midfielder I would say is Steven Gerrard. I really rate him as a player and as a man. I think he is still one of the best," Vieira said at an event run by Ford's Feel Football debate website www.feelfootball.com.

And asked who would one day rival Gerrard as one of the best midfielders, Vieira cited his former Arsenal team-mate, Cesc Fabregas.

Spain stretch lead at top of world rankings

2008-10-08T20:18:00.000+08:00

European champions Spain remained top of the world soccer rankings for a fourth straight month on Wednesday after extending their lead over world champions Italy.

World Cup qualifying wins over Armenia and Bosnia were enough to keep Vicente Del Bosque's side comfortably clear of the Italians, who also enjoyed qualifying victories over Georgia and Cyprus in the past month.

Brazil climbed above the Netherlands and Croatia into fourth place off the back of their World Cup qualifying draw with Bolivia and away win over Chile.

Scotland's hopes of leapfrogging traditional rivals England, however, evaporated following a shock 1-0 defeat in Macedonia.

After suffering the largest drop of points in this month's rankings, Scotland fell 10 places, to 26th while England's win over Croatia helped Fabio Capello's team climb one spot to 14th.

FIFA World Rankings (previous position in brackets):

1. (1) Spain
2. (2) Italy
3. (3) Germany
4. (6) Brazil
5. (4) Netherlands
6. (5) Croatia
7. (7) Argentina
8. (8) Czech Republic
9. (12) Russia
10. (9) Portugal
11. (11) France
12. (14) Cameroon
13. (10) Turkey
14. (15) England
15. (16) Bulgaria

Birthday Boy

2008-10-06T20:36:00.002+08:00

Happy Birthday

To

Amirul Ikram

England's World Cup qual.

2008-10-04T20:40:00.000+08:00

Squad:

Goalkeepers: David James (Portsmouth), Robert Green (West Ham United), Scott Carson (West Bromwich Albion)

Defenders: Wayne Bridge (Chelsea), Wes Brown (Manchester United), Ashley Cole (Chelsea), Rio Ferdinand (Manchester United), Glen Johnson (Portsmouth), John Terry (Chelsea), Joleon Lescott (Everton), Matthew Upson (West Ham United)

Midfielders: Gareth Barry (Aston Villa), Steven Gerrard (Liverpool), Jermaine Jenas (Tottenham Hotspur), Shaun Wright-Phillips (Manchester City), Frank Lampard (Chelsea), Stewart Downing (Middlesbrough), David Beckham (LA Galaxy)

Forwards: Wayne Rooney (Manchester United), Jermaine Defoe (Portsmouth), Theo Walcott (Arsenal), Emile Heskey (Wigan Athletic), Peter Crouch (Portsmouth)

English Premier League Results

2008-09-29T02:43:00.002+08:00

Sunday,September 28

Portsmouth 2 - 0 Tottenham Hotspur
Wigan 2-1 Manchester City

English Premier League Result

2008-09-28T02:55:00.003+08:00

Saturday, September 27

Everton 0 - 2 Liverpool

Stoke City 0 - 2 Chelsea

Manchester United 2 - 0 Bolton Wanderers

Newcastle United 1 - 2 Blackburn Rovers
Middlesbrough 0 - 1 West Bromwich
Aston Villa 2 - 1 Sunderland
Fulham 1 - 2 West Ham
Arsenal 1 - 2 Hull City

2008-09-26T01:26:00.001+08:00

Saturday September 27

Everton v Liverpool
Aston Villa v Sunderland
Fulham v West Ham
Manchester United v Bolton Wanderers
Middlesbrough v West Bromwich
Newcastle United v Blackburn Rovers
Stoke City v Chelsea
Arsenal v Hull City

Sunday September 28

Portsmouth v Tottenham Hotspur
Wigan Athletic v Manchester City

5G Reunion

2008-09-23T23:38:00.006+08:00

@MALL & AHAN TAI

5G:Mu'izz,Akmal,Azri,Hasbol aka Boy,Syauqi,Faiq and Hafiz

English Premier League Results

2008-09-22T00:41:00.002+08:00

Sunday, September 21st

West Bromwich 1 - 2 Aston Villa

Hull City 2 - 2 Everton

Tottenham Hotspur 0 - 0 Wigan Athletic

Chelsea 1 - 1 Manchester United

Manchester City 6 - 0 Portsmouth

English Premier League Results

2008-09-21T02:31:00.003+08:00

Saturday, September 20

Blackburn Rovers 1 - 0 Fulham

Sunderland 2 - 0 Middlesbrough

West Ham 3 - 1 Newcastle United

Liverpool 0 - 0 Stoke City

Bolton Wanderers 1 - 3 Arsenal

Comedy-PART 1

2008-09-20T01:48:00.002+08:00

HAHAHA!! xP
adeyh~ usulnya lagi besila-sila beSONY'VAIO'..Mesti usai nie FSnya and FBnya..WAHAHAHA!!!

English Premier League Fixtures

2008-09-18T23:10:00.003+08:00

Saturday September 20

Sunderland v Middlesbrough
Blackburn Rovers v Fulham
Liverpool v Stoke City
West Ham v Newcastle United
Bolton Wanderers v Arsenal

Sunday September 21

West Bromwich v Aston Villa
Chelsea v Manchester United
Hull City v Everton
Manchester City v Portsmouth
Tottenham Hotspur v Wigan Athletic

Champions League Results

2008-09-18T23:10:00.002+08:00

Thursday, September 18

Manchester United 0 - 0 Villarreal
Celtic 0 - 0 Aalborg BK
Steaua Bucharest 0 - 1 Bayern
Lyon 2 - 2 Fiorentina
Porto 3 - 1 Fenerbahce
Dynamo Kiev 1 - 1 Arsenal
Juventus 1 - 0 Zenit St Petersburg
Real Madrid 2 - 0 Bate Borisov

Champions League Fixtures

2008-09-17T23:08:00.005+08:00

Wednesday September 17

Manchester United v Villarreal
Celtic v Aalborg BK
Steaua Bucharest v Bayern
Juventus v Zenit St Petersburg
Porto v Fenerbahce

Champions League Results

2008-09-17T23:08:00.003+08:00

Tuesday,September 16

Marseille 1 - 2 Liverpool

PSV Eindhoven 0 - 3 Atlético de Madrid

Chelsea 4 - 0 Bordeaux

Roma 1 - 2 CFR Ecomax Cluj

Panathinaikos FC 0 - 2 Internazionale

Bremen 0 - 0 Anorthosis Famagusta

Basel 1 - 2 Shakhtar

Barcelona 3 - 1 Sporting

Champions League Fixtures

2008-09-16T16:37:00.001+08:00

Tuesday September 16

PSV Eindhoven v Atlético de Madrid
Marseille v Liverpool
Chelsea v Bordeaux
Roma v CFR Ecomax Cluj
Basel v Shakhtar

2008-09-15T00:46:00.003+08:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

TO

AFIQ @ ZALES

English Premier League Results

2008-09-14T13:15:00.004+08:00

Saturday,13 September 2008

Liverpool2 - 1Manchester United

Manchester City1 - 3Chelsea

Wigan Athletic1 - 1Sunderland

Blackburn Rovers0 - 4Arsenal

West Bromwich3 - 2West Ham

Fulham2 - 1Bolton Wanderers

Portsmouth2 - 1Middlesbrough

Newcastle United1 - 2Hull City

Liverpool roar past limp United

2008-09-13T21:54:00.002+08:00

Rafael Benitez has finally got something to smile about after Liverpool beat Manchester United 2-1 to record his first win over the club's arch rivals in his Anfield career thanks to an own goal from Wes Brown and Ryan Babel's winner.

The Liverpool boss had never beaten United in nine previous league games, with the champions having won the last five meetings between these two giants.

But United wilted under a relentless second-half pressure, had Nemanja Vidic sent-off and saw substitute Babel secure victory.

Carlos Tevez put United ahead early on. But after a torrid opening period, Liverpool were level with a Wes Brown own goal before Liverpool dominated the second half and grabbed a priceless win with 13 minutes left.

Liverpool gave new signing Albert Riera his debut but Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres were not risked any closer to the initial action than the bench.

Gerrard and Torres passed fit

2008-09-13T19:04:00.002+08:00

Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard have handed Liverpool a major boost and have been passed fit to play against Manchester United at Anfield on Saturday.

The key duo came through a training session on Friday in a bid to prove their fitness for the Premier League showdown.

"They are both much better," confirmed manager Rafa Benitez.

"They came through a full training session this morning. It wasn't a very hard session, but they will both be in the squad.

"It's important for us to have these two players of quality who can change a game. I'm not surprised they are available because the medical staff have done a good job and the players have been working really hard with the physios to get fit."

Liverpool v Man Utd: Preview

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Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard and striker Fernando Torres have both been passed fit to face Manchester United at Anfield on Saturday.
Torres had been sidelined with a hamstring injury, while Gerrard underwent minor groin surgery last month, but both completed a light training session at Melwood on Friday and have been included in the squad.

"They are both much better,'' manager Rafael Benitez told the club's official website.

"They came through a full training session. It wasn't a very hard session, but they will both be in the squad.

"It's important for us to have these two players of quality who can change a game.

"I'm not surprised they are available because the medical staff have done a good job and the players have been working really hard with the physios to get fit.''

Defender Fabio Aurelio believes the team can learn from past mistakes against the champions as they go in search of a long-awaited victory.

Lapses in concentration have allowed the Red Devils to take 10 points from their last four visits to Anfield and manager Rafael Benitez has yet to win a league match against Liverpool's bitterest rivals since arriving at Anfield in the summer of 2004.

Aurelio knows the players have to retain their focus for the entire match if they are to finally overcome Sir Alex Ferguson's side.

"If we remember the two games at home against them in the last two seasons we were better than them in my opinion,'' the Brazilian left-back, who played in both matches against United last season.

"We conceded a goal against them from a free-kick in the last minute and last season they scored from a corner. This shows that we have to concentrate at all times,'' he told the club's website liverpoolfc.tv.

"We have to be 100% on our game and try to show character. We need to show them how difficult it is to play at Anfield. We need to try to change the history.

"In recent years it has been difficult against them but we have a great opportunity to change that on Saturday.''

Owen Hargreaves and Michael Carrick return to United's squad while Cristiano Ronaldo is primed for a Champions League comeback against Villarreal at Old Trafford on Wednesday.

Dimitar Berbatov is in line for his debut for the club following his £30million move from Tottenham with just minutes to spare on transfer deadline day.

English Premier League Fixtures

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Saturday September 13
Liverpool v Manchester United
Blackburn Rovers v Arsenal
Fulham v Bolton Wanderers
Newcastle United v Hull City
Portsmouth v Middlesbrough
West Bromwich v West Ham
Wigan Athletic v Sunderland
Manchester City v Chelsea

Sunday September 14
Stoke City v Everton

Monday September 15
Tottenham Hotspur v Aston Villa