That saliva-inducing encounter is preceded by Manchester City against bottom-of-the-table Portsmouth while on Saturday there are seven fixtures taking place, including leaders Chelsea's trip to Burnley and Liverpool at home to Bolton Wanderers.
Premier League champions Manchester United will be doubly thankful to Wayne Rooney for his injury-time winner during midweek for it not only booked their place in the Carling Cup final but excused them from extra-time ahead of their visit to North London. Thirty more minutes of what was a committed game could have cost Sir Alex Ferguson's men dear as the club look to keep pace with leaders Chelsea, who climbed back to the summit on Wednesday. For Arsenal, their draw at Aston Villa was no poor result - remember, the Midlanders have beaten Liverpool, United and Chelsea already this season - but victory over the Red Devils at home is vital if Arsene Wenger's shuffling of the FA Cup pack is to prove vindicated. Also, revenge might be on their minds after their Old Trafford loss earlier this term.
On Sunday lunchtime Manchester City will be pining for a pick-me-up after suffering the heartbreak of a late exit from the Carling Cup, as a first final appearance since 1981 eluded them. Roberto Mancini was notably, and understandably, gutted post the final whistle, but it is his job to rally his troops for their home meeting with Portsmouth. City are boosted by the returns of key personnel and should consider this game a certain three-point haul as they look continue their fight for fourth place. Pompey battled back for a home point with West Ham during midweek, but they still remain rooted to the foot of the table. Success here would surely be something of a miracle, so Avram Grant would doubtless bite your hand off if you offered him an Eastlands draw ahead of a midweek trip to Fulham.
On Saturday, table-toppers Chelsea head North West to tackle Burnley, who are seeking a first top-flight win since Halloween 2009. The game marks Brian Laws' first encounter in charge of the Clarets at Turf Moor, and he will be hoping to call upon some of the early-season spirit which made their home ground a feared place to visit. Burnley have beaten United on their own Lancashire patch while they also held Arsenal - said sides would love nothing more than an upset for Chelsea this weekend. But the Blues are in rampant form, having routed Sunderland and then swept aside in-form Birmingham, and all this without their African contingent. Victory for the Blues would hand them a four-point lead over United.
Liverpool welcome Bolton to Anfield off the back of a very forgettable 0-0 stalemate at Wolves. Rafa Benitez's men lie fifth in the standings, three points behind Tottenham, and will be wary of City, who lurk on the same points total while also boasting two games in hand. There has been much, much talk of a corner being turned on Merseyside, so a home win over the Trotters will be considered a prerequisite. Bolton won their first game under new manager Owen Coyle on Tuesday, so the side's tails should be up. That result moved them a point away from the relegation zone. Coyle will look to upset the odds at Liverpool, but it is worth noting that when he took Burnley there earlier this season, his former team suffered a heavy 4-0 loss.
2010年2月6日星期六
NASRI: D-DAY FOR ARSENAL TITLE BID
Arsenal midfielder Samir Nasri feels the Gunners will blow any chance they have of winning the Barclays Premier League if they lose at Chelsea on Sunday.
Arsene Wenger's team crashed to a 3-1 defeat at home to Manchester United last weekend which left them third in the standings, six points behind Chelsea.
Another defeat at Stamford Bridge would see the gap widen to nine points and Nasri admits that would be too much ground for them to make up.
"Defeat is forbidden," he told L'Equipe. "That would mean the end of our title chances.
"But any other result would leave us in the running."
The Gunners have struggled against their title rivals this season, losing to United twice as well as being comprehensively beaten by Chelsea at home, and Nasri admits he is at a loss to explain why.
"We know that we can beat anyone," he added.
"Maybe we put a bit too much pressure on ourselves before matches against big teams because we tell ourselves that they are decisive for the title."
Nasri moved to Arsenal in the summer of 2008 and had an impressive debut campaign before picking up a serious injury in pre-season training which sidelined the France international until the end of October.
The 22-year-old believes he has improved under the tutelage of Wenger, however.
"I have progressed in all areas," said Nasri.
"Tactically, I know how to play on one side even though I remain convinced that I can play better through the middle. I'm also defending a lot better.
"Technically, I'm much more fluid in the one-touch game. That wasn't the case at Marseille.
"My left foot has improved. And I'm also more of a shooter in front of goal."
Striker Louis Saha signs new two-year deal with Everton
The 31-year-old France international has been in impressive form this season, scoring 13 goals in all competitions to date.He had attracted interest from a number of clubs across Europe.
"It didn't take me long to know I wanted to stay because I have enjoyed my time here and I want to be part of the future of Everton," said Saha.
"At certain stages in your career you look at where you are going and by staying at Everton I feel I am going up in my career."
Saha has been enjoying something of a renaissance since arriving at Goodison Park from Manchester United in 2008.
His haul of 21 goals for the Merseysiders includes the fastest FA Cup Final strike, against Chelsea last May.
Reports had linked the Frenchman with Bordeaux in France, Turkish outfit Besiktas and AS Roma in Italy but manager David Moyes never had any doubts.
Speaking ahead of the 213th Merseyside derby at Anfield, the Blues boss stated: "We have always felt quite confident that Louis would sign a new contract."
Everton had been desperate to hold on to their top scorer this season, who has also played for Newcastle and Fulham.
Talks between the player's representatives and club officials had been ongoing for a couple of months.
It is a pleasure to be here and see the way the fans work for the team
Louis Saha
Everton
And Saha has revealed that the Goodison faithful played a big part in his decision to remain at the club.
"I appreciate the way the Everton fans support the team and the way they support me all the time," he added.
"It is a pleasure to be here and see the way the fans work for the team, they help all the players. It feels like a family and I really feel a part of it."
WENGER EXPECTS FOCUSED CHELSEA
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger maintains the John Terry saga will have no bearing on Sunday's clash with Barclays Premier League title rivals Chelsea - and believes the role of a captain is overplayed within the English game.
Terry's position as skipper of the national team was the subject of intense scrutiny since a gagging order which prevented details being reported of an alleged affair with the former girlfriend of Wayne Bridge, a current England team-mate, was lifted.
And Terry was stripped of the England captaincy following a meeting with manager Fabio Capello on Friday, but Wenger insists all off-field issues will have little impact when the two London heavyweights clash at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.
"I don't want to go into that stuff about role models that you hear everywhere. It is quite a bit tiring," said the Arsenal manager, whose team will be looking to bounce back from last weekend's 3-1 home demolition by Manchester United.
"We do not have to interfere with Chelsea's problems.
"I believe Chelsea will play at their best, we expect that, and that is why we just want to focus on our own performance.
"We have seen last Sunday when we do not play at our best we do not win the game and that is why the key is more on our side."
Wenger added: "It [captaincy] is over played, without a doubt.
"Maybe it has historical roots in battles, fighting. Traditionally in the history of England the captain certainly had a big role and a big importance.
"I like that, but team sport is linked with recent history, the 20th Century. Before that, it was all fighting, and so maybe it is linked with historical roots.
"In some other sports like rugby the captain has a bit more freedom and importance than in football.
"It is always an instant decision in a very quick time and the captain has no time to interfere with the individual decisions of the players on the pitch."
Wenger took direct action within his squad last season when he removed the captain's armband from William Gallas, replacing him with Cesc Fabregas, after the French defender questioned the spirit of the young Arsenal team.
In May, striker Nicklas Bendtner issued a public apology after he was photographed leaving a nightclub with his belt undone and jeans pulled down before being helped into a waiting car in the early hours after Arsenal had just been knocked out of the Champions League semi-finals.
Wenger has some empathy with the difficulties facing modern-day professionals.
"I believe more than footballers, human beings cross the line, and many of us do," he said.
"Who has not done that in life? We have all made mistakes."
French coach Wenger, 60, has been in England for more than a decade, and understands the media culture.
"It never surprises me because the headlines are quite predicable," he said.
"It must provoke an interest for people because if a newspaper writes, it is because people read it and there must be a demand for it.
"But I am interested in football more, what is happening on the pitch, a good pass, good vision, a good team spirit.
"If people like to read it, why not? But I am not a big fan of that."
Arsenal could blow the title race wide open with a second successive victory at Stamford Bridge, which would move them to within three points of Chelsea.
However, by the same token, suffer defeat and the young Gunners' championship ambitions will look to be all but over once again.
Wenger, though, remains calm.
"I believe we should be more relaxed at this time because at the start of the season nobody expected us in the top four or in the title race," he said.
"Now, instead of being intimidated, I believe we have to really have a go because we are entitled to have it.
"The biggest regret I have from Sunday against Manchester United is that we gave them too much freedom and allowed them to play too much in a game where we should have been dictating.
"My team wanted it so much that sometimes you can be a little bit restricted and our target is to get that freedom to play against Chelsea."
Wenger concluded: "I am convinced that we are capable to win everywhere in the world, but of course we need to turn up with a good performance."
The article is form http://www.football365.com/
Terry's position as skipper of the national team was the subject of intense scrutiny since a gagging order which prevented details being reported of an alleged affair with the former girlfriend of Wayne Bridge, a current England team-mate, was lifted.
And Terry was stripped of the England captaincy following a meeting with manager Fabio Capello on Friday, but Wenger insists all off-field issues will have little impact when the two London heavyweights clash at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.
"I don't want to go into that stuff about role models that you hear everywhere. It is quite a bit tiring," said the Arsenal manager, whose team will be looking to bounce back from last weekend's 3-1 home demolition by Manchester United.
"We do not have to interfere with Chelsea's problems.
"I believe Chelsea will play at their best, we expect that, and that is why we just want to focus on our own performance.
"We have seen last Sunday when we do not play at our best we do not win the game and that is why the key is more on our side."
Wenger added: "It [captaincy] is over played, without a doubt.
"Maybe it has historical roots in battles, fighting. Traditionally in the history of England the captain certainly had a big role and a big importance.
"I like that, but team sport is linked with recent history, the 20th Century. Before that, it was all fighting, and so maybe it is linked with historical roots.
"In some other sports like rugby the captain has a bit more freedom and importance than in football.
"It is always an instant decision in a very quick time and the captain has no time to interfere with the individual decisions of the players on the pitch."
Wenger took direct action within his squad last season when he removed the captain's armband from William Gallas, replacing him with Cesc Fabregas, after the French defender questioned the spirit of the young Arsenal team.
In May, striker Nicklas Bendtner issued a public apology after he was photographed leaving a nightclub with his belt undone and jeans pulled down before being helped into a waiting car in the early hours after Arsenal had just been knocked out of the Champions League semi-finals.
Wenger has some empathy with the difficulties facing modern-day professionals.
"I believe more than footballers, human beings cross the line, and many of us do," he said.
"Who has not done that in life? We have all made mistakes."
French coach Wenger, 60, has been in England for more than a decade, and understands the media culture.
"It never surprises me because the headlines are quite predicable," he said.
"It must provoke an interest for people because if a newspaper writes, it is because people read it and there must be a demand for it.
"But I am interested in football more, what is happening on the pitch, a good pass, good vision, a good team spirit.
"If people like to read it, why not? But I am not a big fan of that."
Arsenal could blow the title race wide open with a second successive victory at Stamford Bridge, which would move them to within three points of Chelsea.
However, by the same token, suffer defeat and the young Gunners' championship ambitions will look to be all but over once again.
Wenger, though, remains calm.
"I believe we should be more relaxed at this time because at the start of the season nobody expected us in the top four or in the title race," he said.
"Now, instead of being intimidated, I believe we have to really have a go because we are entitled to have it.
"The biggest regret I have from Sunday against Manchester United is that we gave them too much freedom and allowed them to play too much in a game where we should have been dictating.
"My team wanted it so much that sometimes you can be a little bit restricted and our target is to get that freedom to play against Chelsea."
Wenger concluded: "I am convinced that we are capable to win everywhere in the world, but of course we need to turn up with a good performance."
The article is form http://www.football365.com/
Newcastle 5 - 1 Cardiff
Andy Carroll had a hand in the first three goals, which came in 15 minutes.
The striker scored the first from close range, saw his shot off the post turned in by Gabor Gypes for an own-goal, then rose unmarked to head his second.
After the break sub Peter Lovenkrands added two more, poking in before adding a fine curled second, with Aaron Wildig hitting a late Cardiff consolation.
Former Magpies striker Michael Chopra had promised not to celebrate if he scored at St James' Park, but his restraint rarely looked like being tested on a black night for the Welshmen.
Newcastle manager Chris Hughton fielded all six of his January transfer acquisitions in his starting line-up, and that meant debuts for Leon Best and Fitz Hall and a first appearance at St James' for Patrick van Aanholt.
But it was one of the old guard who struck the first blow with just three minutes gone, after Gyepes had conceded a third-minute corner trying to stop Wayne Routledge.
Danny Guthrie's cross was headed back across goal by Hall and flicked on by Kevin Nolan for Carroll to stab home from close range and give his side the perfect start.
Cardiff_BlueCrew
The 21-year-old striker should have collected his eighth goal of the season three minutes later when he smashed a left-foot shot against the foot of the post.
But the unfortunate Gyepes could only help the rebound into his own net as the Magpies raced into a 2-0 lead.
Ross McCormack might have pulled one back immediately for the visitors, but his stinging volley cannoned back off the bar.
Carroll then claimed his second of the game when he met Danny Simpson's inch-perfect cross with an unstoppable header.
Bluebirds full-back Adam Matthews drifted a 20th-minute cross on to the angle of bar and post with goal keeper Steve Harper once again beaten, but it was not Cardiff's night.
The second half was never likely to start as explosively as the first, although Harper had to be on his toes to turn over Chopra's 51st-minute shot after it looped up off Hall.
Dave Jones' men were enjoying plenty of possession, but were rarely able to trouble Hughton's rearguard.
They were made to pay with 21 minutes remaining when Routledge fed Lovenkrands and he finished with aplomb, sliding the ball past David Marshall.
Carroll was denied a hat-trick by Gyepes' 80th-minute goal-line clearance, but Lovenkrands made it 5-0 with a fine finish two minutes later.
Cardiff substitute Wildig's late strike was scant consolation for the demoralised visitors, who never the less remain in the play-offs and have an FA Cup fourth-round tie at Chelsea to look forward to.
One plus point for the Bluebirds was the return of midfielder Stephen McPhail, who played his first game - lasting 75 minutes - since returning from treatment for cancer.
JT IN `FANTASTIC CONDITION` - ANCELOTTI
Chelsea coach Carlo Ancelotti believes John Terry has the full backing of the Stamford Bridge dressing room despite revelations about his private life.
Former-England captain Terry, 29, has endured a week-long media furore following allegations that he had an affair with an ex-girlfriend of former team-mate Wayne Bridge.
Terry was sacked as captain of the national side after a meeting with England manager Fabio Capello on Friday, but Ancelotti insisted the player has remained totally professional throughout a difficult week.
As far as the Italian is concerned, Terry remains a valuable member of the squad and when asked if he still had the backing of the players, Ancelotti replied: "I think so.
"John speaks with his team-mates because he's the captain of this team.
"He is focusing on his job. He's doing very well every day, every moment. He's the captain of this team so, with his behaviour, he's doing his best for this team.
"And also he played very well in the last two games. He scored against Burnley. He's in fantastic condition at the moment.
"The problem that involves John is outside our training ground and it's a normal life for us. John's mood is very normal.
"I have not spoken to him. It's not necessary for me to speak to him about his private life.
"It's his private life and I don't want to know anything about this. I'm only interested in his professional behaviour and that is the best.
"I'm not interested in the private lives of the players. In the past some coaches phoned home to control their players, but I never did this in my career and I won't in the future.
"I'm only interested in the players at the training ground and to control behaviour at the training ground. Private lives are an important thing - they should remain private."
Ancelotti is fiercely supportive of his captain and maintains there was never any question of leaving Terry out of Sunday's showdown with Arsenal.
2010年2月5日星期五
Everse takes Heerenveen helm
Everse - the former Sparta Rotterdam and FC Zwolle tactician - has taken charge of the underperforming Eredivisie outfit after Jan de Jonge resigned as interim boss on Wednesday.
De Jonge had been in temporary charge of the club since former coach Trond Sollied was sacked in early September, but the 46-year-old decided to call time on his stint at the helm with the club languishing in 13th in the Dutch top-flight.
Everse has now been charged with the task of salvaging something from a disappointing campaign, and Heerenveen director Yme Kuiper is relieved to have found a replacement so quickly.
Speed
"At times like this speed of action is very important," he told the club's official website. "This can only benefit the team.
"Initially we had not expected to have a new man on the bench in time for the Utrecht game (tomorrow). Things quickly went beyond expectations and that's a good thing. Speed and thoroughness are very important in situations like this."
Kuiper is hopeful Everse will be able to bring the best out of the players during the remainder of the campaign.
"Jan is a passionate coach with his own clear vision. He is someone who gets things done," Kuiper added.
De Jonge had been in temporary charge of the club since former coach Trond Sollied was sacked in early September, but the 46-year-old decided to call time on his stint at the helm with the club languishing in 13th in the Dutch top-flight.
Everse has now been charged with the task of salvaging something from a disappointing campaign, and Heerenveen director Yme Kuiper is relieved to have found a replacement so quickly.
Speed
"At times like this speed of action is very important," he told the club's official website. "This can only benefit the team.
"Initially we had not expected to have a new man on the bench in time for the Utrecht game (tomorrow). Things quickly went beyond expectations and that's a good thing. Speed and thoroughness are very important in situations like this."
Kuiper is hopeful Everse will be able to bring the best out of the players during the remainder of the campaign.
"Jan is a passionate coach with his own clear vision. He is someone who gets things done," Kuiper added.
Rooney and Nani please boss
The duo have been in scintillating form of late, helping the Red Devils remain on course for an unprecedented fourth consecutive Premier League title.
Rooney is arguably Europe's most in-form frontman at the moment, with the England international having smashed through the 20-goal barrier for the season.
He is beginning to show the kind of consistency needed to be considered as one of the world's best players, and has almost single-handedly carried United at times.
Ferguson admits that at 24, Rooney is now fulfilling his early promise, with the Red Devils boss full of praise for his talismanic hit-man.
"Unbelievable performances," he told Sky Sports News when asked about Rooney's recent showings.
"Hopefully we are now seeing him mature into the centre-forward we always thought he would be.
"Young players develop in stages. I said last season that he was producing bursts here and there, scoring for four or five games and then having dry spells.
"But that's what you expect from maturity. I think we are now seeing a more mature player."
Progression
Ferguson is also delighted to see Nani finally demonstrating what he is capable of, after a difficult time in England for the Portuguese winger.
The 23-year-old has taken time to settle at Old Trafford, but has emerged from his shell in spectacular style this season and now appears capable of filling the void created by the departure of his fellow countryman Cristiano Ronaldo last summer.
"In the case of Nani, like Rooney, I think we are seeing a player who is maturing," said Ferguson.
"He's a young lad who has come in from a different country and he has taken more time than some of the others to settle. But that sometimes happens.
"Sometimes you bring a player in from another country and they settle straight away, but with Nani you can see his progression over the last few games because he has been outstanding."
He added: "It's got nothing to do with Cristiano, it's an individual thing. He is maturing and he has got the appreciation from his team-mates, which is helping him.
"As a kid he always had great talent but he has taken time to settle into the country."
The article is from http://www.skysports.com/
John Terry stripped of England captaincy by Capello
Terry, 29, held talks with England boss Fabio Capello at Wembley on Friday.
"After much thought I have made the decision that it will be best for me to take the captaincy away from John Terry," said Capello in a statement.
Terry, who has been replaced by fellow defender Rio Ferdinand, said he abided by Capello's decision to demote him.
"I fully respect Fabio Capello's decision," the Chelsea centre-half said in a statement. "I will continue to give everything for England."
Capello returned to the United Kingdom on Thursday and is thought to have been keen to resolve the Terry saga before travelling to Poland for Sunday's Euro 2012 draw.
The 63-year-old Italian, who has been recovering from knee surgery in Switzerland, has been monitoring the fall-out closely and regularly spoken to his trusted lieutenant Franco Baldini.
'A personal tragedy' for Terry - Davies
Baldini, England's general manager, held in-depth talks with four key Football Association board members on Monday - chairman Lord Triesman, chief executive Ian Watmore, director of communications Adrian Bevington and head of development Trevor Brooking.
They agreed that Capello alone would make the decision about Terry's future and that the priority was to make the right decision rather than a quick one.
"As a captain with the team, John Terry has displayed extremely positive behaviour," read Capello's statement.
PHIL MCNULTY BLOG
Capello's vast experience made him best qualified to make the decision - and the FA knew it. Why have a dog and bark yourself?
"However, I have to take into account other considerations and what is best for all of the England squad.
"What is best for all of the England team has inspired my choice.
"John Terry was notified first.
"When I chose John Terry as captain, I also selected a vice-captain (Ferdinand) and also named a third choice. There is no reason to change this decision.
"I would like to take this opportunity to thank the FA, particularly Lord David Triesman and Ian Watmore for allowing me to make this decision in my own time and in the best interest of the team."
England's next match is a home friendly against Egypt on 3 March as they continue their preparations for the World Cup in South Africa.
They will be lead out in that match by Ferdinand, with Liverpool midfielder Steven Gerrard moving to vice-captain.
Manchester United's Rio Ferdinand will take over the captaincy
Ferdinand, 31, is currently serving a four-match ban for violent conduct after only just returning to action following a three-month lay-off because of a back injury.
The Manchester United defender will hope to continue the form shown by England following Terry's appointment in August 2008.
In the 15 matches in which he wore the armband under Capello, England won 11 and drew two, qualifying easily for this year's World Cup.
A married father of twins, Terry is alleged to have had an affair with Vanessa Perroncel, the former girlfriend of England and former Chelsea team-mate Wayne Bridge.
Bridge, who has a son with the French model, moved to Manchester City in January 2009 and is recovering from a knee injury that has kept him out of action for the last two months.
Meanwhile, Perroncel, a lingerie model and former nightclub hostess, said she would not be selling her story.
In a statement read on her behalf by publicist Max Clifford, Perroncel said: "I have decided I do not want to speak publicly about the speculation since it only seems to add more fuel to the fire.
"I have a three-year-old son and he is my main concern. I do not believe speaking to newspapers or the media is in his interest or my own."
The article is from http://news.bbc.co.uk/
"After much thought I have made the decision that it will be best for me to take the captaincy away from John Terry," said Capello in a statement.
Terry, who has been replaced by fellow defender Rio Ferdinand, said he abided by Capello's decision to demote him.
"I fully respect Fabio Capello's decision," the Chelsea centre-half said in a statement. "I will continue to give everything for England."
Capello returned to the United Kingdom on Thursday and is thought to have been keen to resolve the Terry saga before travelling to Poland for Sunday's Euro 2012 draw.
The 63-year-old Italian, who has been recovering from knee surgery in Switzerland, has been monitoring the fall-out closely and regularly spoken to his trusted lieutenant Franco Baldini.
'A personal tragedy' for Terry - Davies
Baldini, England's general manager, held in-depth talks with four key Football Association board members on Monday - chairman Lord Triesman, chief executive Ian Watmore, director of communications Adrian Bevington and head of development Trevor Brooking.
They agreed that Capello alone would make the decision about Terry's future and that the priority was to make the right decision rather than a quick one.
"As a captain with the team, John Terry has displayed extremely positive behaviour," read Capello's statement.
PHIL MCNULTY BLOG
Capello's vast experience made him best qualified to make the decision - and the FA knew it. Why have a dog and bark yourself?
"However, I have to take into account other considerations and what is best for all of the England squad.
"What is best for all of the England team has inspired my choice.
"John Terry was notified first.
"When I chose John Terry as captain, I also selected a vice-captain (Ferdinand) and also named a third choice. There is no reason to change this decision.
"I would like to take this opportunity to thank the FA, particularly Lord David Triesman and Ian Watmore for allowing me to make this decision in my own time and in the best interest of the team."
England's next match is a home friendly against Egypt on 3 March as they continue their preparations for the World Cup in South Africa.
They will be lead out in that match by Ferdinand, with Liverpool midfielder Steven Gerrard moving to vice-captain.
Manchester United's Rio Ferdinand will take over the captaincy
Ferdinand, 31, is currently serving a four-match ban for violent conduct after only just returning to action following a three-month lay-off because of a back injury.
The Manchester United defender will hope to continue the form shown by England following Terry's appointment in August 2008.
In the 15 matches in which he wore the armband under Capello, England won 11 and drew two, qualifying easily for this year's World Cup.
A married father of twins, Terry is alleged to have had an affair with Vanessa Perroncel, the former girlfriend of England and former Chelsea team-mate Wayne Bridge.
Bridge, who has a son with the French model, moved to Manchester City in January 2009 and is recovering from a knee injury that has kept him out of action for the last two months.
Meanwhile, Perroncel, a lingerie model and former nightclub hostess, said she would not be selling her story.
In a statement read on her behalf by publicist Max Clifford, Perroncel said: "I have decided I do not want to speak publicly about the speculation since it only seems to add more fuel to the fire.
"I have a three-year-old son and he is my main concern. I do not believe speaking to newspapers or the media is in his interest or my own."
The article is from http://news.bbc.co.uk/
CAPELLO STRIPS TERRY OF CAPTAINCY
John Terry has been sacked as England captain.
The 29-year-old was informed of the decision by Fabio Capello during a brief meeting at Wembley on Friday afternoon. The decision comes after allegations surrounding the Chelsea skipper's private life came to light.
"After much thought I have made the decision that it will be best for me to take the captaincy away from John Terry," said the Italian in a statement.
Capello made it clear that while Terry's conduct on the field had been exactly what he wanted when he made his decision to appoint the central defender as skipper in August 2008, recent headlines about his personal life left him with little choice other than to remove the honour from the Barking-born player.
It is alleged that Terry had an affair with Vanessa Perroncel, the ex-girlfriend of England team-mate Wayne Bridge, also a former club-mate of Terry's at Chelsea.
"As a captain with the team, John Terry has displayed extremely positive behaviour," added Capello.
"However, I have to take into account other considerations and what is best for all of the England squad.
"What is best for all of the England team has inspired my choice and John Terry was notified first."
Although Capello has not clarified whether he still intends to select Terry, it is Rio Ferdinand who will replace the Chelsea man, with Steven Gerrard acting as his deputy.
"When I chose John Terry as captain, I also selected a vice-captain and also named a third choice," said Capello.
"There is no reason to change this decision.
"I would like to take this opportunity to thank the FA, particularly Lord David Triesman and Ian Watmore for allowing me to make this decision in my own time and in the best interest of the team."
Capello has only been in the job for just over two years but it is a measure of his standing within the English game that both FA chairman Lord Triesman and chief executive Watmore were happy to let him make the judgement.
Equally, team sponsors Nationwide have been quick to offer their support.
"The captaincy of the England football team is a matter for Fabio Capello and the Football Association. It is not a matter for the team sponsor," said Nationwide spokesman Chris Hull.
"These are private matters and not a matter for Nationwide. Nationwide is the England team sponsor and not the sponsor of any one individual."
Terry kept his own comments brief. However, he had little option other than to accept Capello's decision and gave a broad hint that he would continue to be involved with the national team.
"I fully respect Fabio Capello's decision," Terry said in a statement released to Press Association Sport.
"I will continue to give everything for England."
Terry kept his own comments brief. However, he had little option other than to accept Capello's decision and gave a broad hint that he would continue to be involved with the national team.
"I fully respect Fabio Capello's decision," Terry said in a statement released to Press Association Sport.
"I will continue to give everything for England."
The words disguise what is bound to be a bitter blow for Terry, and not a decision Capello would have taken lightly.
When most pundits expected the Italian to name Ferdinand as his skipper Capello felt the Chelsea star was better at galvanising the players around him.
Terry has done everything asked of him on the pitch as England have marched on towards this summer's World Cup in South Africa.
But there have been issues away from the pitch that have not sat easily with the suits at the FA.
Both Terry's parents have been in the headlines for the wrong reasons, while the defender himself was accused of using his role as England skipper for personal gain when an agency he was linked to included his status in an e-mail offering the player's services to enhance their business.
Terry emerged unscathed from all of this but last Friday, when a super-injunction, preventing details of an alleged affair with Vanessa Perroncel from being reported, was lifted by the High Court began the damage.
As the former girlfriend of Wayne Bridge and mother of the defender's son, Perroncel's name brought with it a whiff of scandal that only intensified with Terry's efforts to keep the affair out of the public domain.
At home in Switzerland, where he was recovering from major knee surgery, Capello could only look on aghast as the drip-feed of anti-Terry stories continued.
As trusted assistant Franco Baldini gauged reaction from various figures across the country, including Bridge's club boss at Manchester City, Roberto Mancini, Capello was told by senior FA figures he had full control over the decision.
Although Capello needed time, he was also aware the matter needed to be dealt with prior to his departure for Warsaw on Saturday ahead of Sunday's Euro 2012 draw.
He therefore called Terry to Wembley on Friday afternoon for a meeting that consigned the Chelsea star to his new role as ex-England skipper.
JOHN TERRY FACTFILE
1980 - December 7: Born in London.
1998 - October 28: Makes Chelsea debut against Aston Villa.
2000 - Has a two-month loan spell at Nottingham Forest.
2001 - September - Terry is one of four players fined two weeks' wages by Chelsea after their behaviour at a Heathrow hotel is criticised on the day after the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
2002 - Terry and Chelsea team-mate Jody Morris are cleared after being charged with assault and affray in connection with a nightclub incident. Terry, uncapped at the time, is ruled out of the World Cup after the Football Association decide he should not be considered for international duty with England until the legal case is completed. Chelsea fine both Terry and Morris for being out late less than 48 hours before an FA Cup third-round tie at Norwich.
2002 - May 4: Part of Chelsea side who lose FA Cup final to Arsenal.
2003 - June 3: Makes England debut against Serbia and Montenegro, coming on as a half-time substitute.
2004 - June 24: Penalised for foul on Portugal goalkeeper Ricardo, denying Sol Campbell a winner in the European Championship quarter-final.
August 15: Appointed Chelsea captain, succeeding Marcel Desailly.
2005 - April: Chelsea win Premiership.
2006 - April: Plays in the final game of title-winning season - a 3-0 win over rivals Manchester United.
August 10 - Chosen as new England captain by head coach Steve McClaren to replace David Beckham.
August 16 - England beat Greece 4-0 in a friendly in Terry's first game as captain, with the defender scoring the first goal of the new era.
October 11 - Suffers his first defeat as England skipper, 2-0 in Croatia in a Euro 2008 qualifier.
November 30 - Charged with improper conduct by the Football Association for comments about referee Graham Poll. Later admits the charge and is reprimanded and fined £10,000.
2007 - February 25: Knocked unconscious during the Carling Cup final victory over Arsenal when Abou Diaby's foot accidentally connects with his head.
June 1 - Scores his first senior England goal at the new Wembley in 1-1 draw with Brazil.
July 27 - Signs a new five-year deal with Chelsea.
September 29 - Suffers broken cheekbone in a match against Fulham.
October 19 - Undergoes surgery on a knee injury which rules him out of England's crucial Euro 2008 qualifiers against Estonia, Russia and Croatia.
December 16 - Breaks a foot in a challenge with Arsenal's Emmanuel Eboue, and misses two months of action, including England's first match under new manager Fabio Capello.
2008 - March 25: Loses out as Rio Ferdinand is named England captain for friendly against France.
May 21 - Misses penalty in shoot-out against Manchester United which would have won Chelsea the Champions League. Manchester United win the shoot-out and Terry admits he will be "haunted forever" by the miss.
May 27 - Named England captain for England's friendly against the USA.
August 19 - Named as permanent captain of England by coach Fabio Capello ahead of friendly against Czech Republic at Wembley.
August 28 - Named UEFA's defender of the year.
November 19 - Scores fifth England goal against Germany in a friendly.
2009 - February 15: Chelsea and Terry dismiss media reports of a move to Manchester City, with the player saying: "I have always said that I want to end my career at the club which I love."
2009 - April 1: Scores in the 2-1 World Cup qualifier against Ukraine.
May - Former Blues midfielder Claude Makelele claims in a book that Terry played a part in Jose Mourinho's exit from Chelsea. Terry refutes Makelele's suggestions.
July - Manchester City make renewed contact over Terry, seeing at least two bids for the player turned down.
July 26 - Terry releases a statement confirming neither he nor Chelsea considered Manchester City's offers and insisting he is "totally committed" to the club.
December 20 - Chelsea defend Terry after allegations he took secret cash payments to lay on a behind-the- scenes tour of the club's training ground.
2010 - January 29: Terry named as the sportsman behind a gagging injunction involving his private life. A court order had previously been in place, covering an alleged relationship between married Terry and French underwear model Vanessa Perroncel.
January 30: Terry scores the winning goal in Chelsea's 2-1 win at Burnley but does not smile as he is congratulated by team-mates. Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti confirms that Terry will remain captain of the club.
January 31: Sports Minister Gerry Sutcliffe says that if the allegations against Terry are proven they call into question his role as England captain.
February 1: The FA says England manager Fabio Capello alone will decide whether Terry remains as England captain.
February 3: Terry's spokesman Phil Hall says Terry will make no announcement regarding his future as England captain before meeting Capello.
February 5: Terry is axed as England captain following a meeting with Capello.
The 29-year-old was informed of the decision by Fabio Capello during a brief meeting at Wembley on Friday afternoon. The decision comes after allegations surrounding the Chelsea skipper's private life came to light.
"After much thought I have made the decision that it will be best for me to take the captaincy away from John Terry," said the Italian in a statement.
Capello made it clear that while Terry's conduct on the field had been exactly what he wanted when he made his decision to appoint the central defender as skipper in August 2008, recent headlines about his personal life left him with little choice other than to remove the honour from the Barking-born player.
It is alleged that Terry had an affair with Vanessa Perroncel, the ex-girlfriend of England team-mate Wayne Bridge, also a former club-mate of Terry's at Chelsea.
"As a captain with the team, John Terry has displayed extremely positive behaviour," added Capello.
"However, I have to take into account other considerations and what is best for all of the England squad.
"What is best for all of the England team has inspired my choice and John Terry was notified first."
Although Capello has not clarified whether he still intends to select Terry, it is Rio Ferdinand who will replace the Chelsea man, with Steven Gerrard acting as his deputy.
"When I chose John Terry as captain, I also selected a vice-captain and also named a third choice," said Capello.
"There is no reason to change this decision.
"I would like to take this opportunity to thank the FA, particularly Lord David Triesman and Ian Watmore for allowing me to make this decision in my own time and in the best interest of the team."
Capello has only been in the job for just over two years but it is a measure of his standing within the English game that both FA chairman Lord Triesman and chief executive Watmore were happy to let him make the judgement.
Equally, team sponsors Nationwide have been quick to offer their support.
"The captaincy of the England football team is a matter for Fabio Capello and the Football Association. It is not a matter for the team sponsor," said Nationwide spokesman Chris Hull.
"These are private matters and not a matter for Nationwide. Nationwide is the England team sponsor and not the sponsor of any one individual."
Terry kept his own comments brief. However, he had little option other than to accept Capello's decision and gave a broad hint that he would continue to be involved with the national team.
"I fully respect Fabio Capello's decision," Terry said in a statement released to Press Association Sport.
"I will continue to give everything for England."
Terry kept his own comments brief. However, he had little option other than to accept Capello's decision and gave a broad hint that he would continue to be involved with the national team.
"I fully respect Fabio Capello's decision," Terry said in a statement released to Press Association Sport.
"I will continue to give everything for England."
The words disguise what is bound to be a bitter blow for Terry, and not a decision Capello would have taken lightly.
When most pundits expected the Italian to name Ferdinand as his skipper Capello felt the Chelsea star was better at galvanising the players around him.
Terry has done everything asked of him on the pitch as England have marched on towards this summer's World Cup in South Africa.
But there have been issues away from the pitch that have not sat easily with the suits at the FA.
Both Terry's parents have been in the headlines for the wrong reasons, while the defender himself was accused of using his role as England skipper for personal gain when an agency he was linked to included his status in an e-mail offering the player's services to enhance their business.
Terry emerged unscathed from all of this but last Friday, when a super-injunction, preventing details of an alleged affair with Vanessa Perroncel from being reported, was lifted by the High Court began the damage.
As the former girlfriend of Wayne Bridge and mother of the defender's son, Perroncel's name brought with it a whiff of scandal that only intensified with Terry's efforts to keep the affair out of the public domain.
At home in Switzerland, where he was recovering from major knee surgery, Capello could only look on aghast as the drip-feed of anti-Terry stories continued.
As trusted assistant Franco Baldini gauged reaction from various figures across the country, including Bridge's club boss at Manchester City, Roberto Mancini, Capello was told by senior FA figures he had full control over the decision.
Although Capello needed time, he was also aware the matter needed to be dealt with prior to his departure for Warsaw on Saturday ahead of Sunday's Euro 2012 draw.
He therefore called Terry to Wembley on Friday afternoon for a meeting that consigned the Chelsea star to his new role as ex-England skipper.
JOHN TERRY FACTFILE
1980 - December 7: Born in London.
1998 - October 28: Makes Chelsea debut against Aston Villa.
2000 - Has a two-month loan spell at Nottingham Forest.
2001 - September - Terry is one of four players fined two weeks' wages by Chelsea after their behaviour at a Heathrow hotel is criticised on the day after the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
2002 - Terry and Chelsea team-mate Jody Morris are cleared after being charged with assault and affray in connection with a nightclub incident. Terry, uncapped at the time, is ruled out of the World Cup after the Football Association decide he should not be considered for international duty with England until the legal case is completed. Chelsea fine both Terry and Morris for being out late less than 48 hours before an FA Cup third-round tie at Norwich.
2002 - May 4: Part of Chelsea side who lose FA Cup final to Arsenal.
2003 - June 3: Makes England debut against Serbia and Montenegro, coming on as a half-time substitute.
2004 - June 24: Penalised for foul on Portugal goalkeeper Ricardo, denying Sol Campbell a winner in the European Championship quarter-final.
August 15: Appointed Chelsea captain, succeeding Marcel Desailly.
2005 - April: Chelsea win Premiership.
2006 - April: Plays in the final game of title-winning season - a 3-0 win over rivals Manchester United.
August 10 - Chosen as new England captain by head coach Steve McClaren to replace David Beckham.
August 16 - England beat Greece 4-0 in a friendly in Terry's first game as captain, with the defender scoring the first goal of the new era.
October 11 - Suffers his first defeat as England skipper, 2-0 in Croatia in a Euro 2008 qualifier.
November 30 - Charged with improper conduct by the Football Association for comments about referee Graham Poll. Later admits the charge and is reprimanded and fined £10,000.
2007 - February 25: Knocked unconscious during the Carling Cup final victory over Arsenal when Abou Diaby's foot accidentally connects with his head.
June 1 - Scores his first senior England goal at the new Wembley in 1-1 draw with Brazil.
July 27 - Signs a new five-year deal with Chelsea.
September 29 - Suffers broken cheekbone in a match against Fulham.
October 19 - Undergoes surgery on a knee injury which rules him out of England's crucial Euro 2008 qualifiers against Estonia, Russia and Croatia.
December 16 - Breaks a foot in a challenge with Arsenal's Emmanuel Eboue, and misses two months of action, including England's first match under new manager Fabio Capello.
2008 - March 25: Loses out as Rio Ferdinand is named England captain for friendly against France.
May 21 - Misses penalty in shoot-out against Manchester United which would have won Chelsea the Champions League. Manchester United win the shoot-out and Terry admits he will be "haunted forever" by the miss.
May 27 - Named England captain for England's friendly against the USA.
August 19 - Named as permanent captain of England by coach Fabio Capello ahead of friendly against Czech Republic at Wembley.
August 28 - Named UEFA's defender of the year.
November 19 - Scores fifth England goal against Germany in a friendly.
2009 - February 15: Chelsea and Terry dismiss media reports of a move to Manchester City, with the player saying: "I have always said that I want to end my career at the club which I love."
2009 - April 1: Scores in the 2-1 World Cup qualifier against Ukraine.
May - Former Blues midfielder Claude Makelele claims in a book that Terry played a part in Jose Mourinho's exit from Chelsea. Terry refutes Makelele's suggestions.
July - Manchester City make renewed contact over Terry, seeing at least two bids for the player turned down.
July 26 - Terry releases a statement confirming neither he nor Chelsea considered Manchester City's offers and insisting he is "totally committed" to the club.
December 20 - Chelsea defend Terry after allegations he took secret cash payments to lay on a behind-the- scenes tour of the club's training ground.
2010 - January 29: Terry named as the sportsman behind a gagging injunction involving his private life. A court order had previously been in place, covering an alleged relationship between married Terry and French underwear model Vanessa Perroncel.
January 30: Terry scores the winning goal in Chelsea's 2-1 win at Burnley but does not smile as he is congratulated by team-mates. Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti confirms that Terry will remain captain of the club.
January 31: Sports Minister Gerry Sutcliffe says that if the allegations against Terry are proven they call into question his role as England captain.
February 1: The FA says England manager Fabio Capello alone will decide whether Terry remains as England captain.
February 3: Terry's spokesman Phil Hall says Terry will make no announcement regarding his future as England captain before meeting Capello.
February 5: Terry is axed as England captain following a meeting with Capello.
2010年2月3日星期三
GUNNERS NOT FAR AWAY - ALMUNIA
Manuel Almunia sees no reason why Arsenal should not be confident of once again clawing themselves back into the race for the Premier League title - starting at Chelsea on Sunday.
The Blues missed the chance to tighten their grip on the top of the table when they could only manage a 1-1 draw at relegation battlers Hull.
Arsenal may have been unable to rise to the challenge against Manchester United last weekend, as the champions ran out comfortable 3-1 winners at the Emirates Stadium, but victory at Stamford Bridge for the second season in a row would cut the deficit on Chelsea down to just three points.
The Gunners would, though, still then be playing catch up on both the top two, as United could go a point clear themselves with what should be a routine victory over bottom club Portsmouth on Saturday.
Arsenal were also out-muscled by Chelsea 3-0 at home back in late November, before a 10-match unbeaten league run saw them move into contention once again, even briefly topping the table.
Almunia, 32, believes that shows all is not yet lost.
"We are on schedule to do good things this season, we have only a little step to get back to the top of the league," said the Arsenal goalkeeper.
"When you think about where we were after the Chelsea game [in November], that is a great achievement.
"Sometimes it is better to come back from third or fourth to challenge than to be at the top all the time."
Arsenal may have won at Anfield, but they have lost both home and away to United. Their recent form against Chelsea is not encouraging, with the Blues winning an FA Cup semi-final clash at Wembley in April and then romping to a 4-1 win in north London a month later.
Wenger, though, will take some solace from United's poor record against their direct title rivals last season, which did not stop the Red Devils going on to claim a third successive championship.
"I always felt the games against the rest of the top four would determine the league", the Arsenal boss said.
"But last year Manchester United proved me wrong on that - they won the title after taking just five points from those six games."
Wenger resisted the temptation to bolster his attacking options in the January transfer market, despite still being without injured Holland forward Robin van Persie until at least April.
Nicklas Bendtner is, however, back after the best part of three months out following groin surgery, and the Denmark striker could come into contention to start at Chelsea.
Wenger said: "He has a physical presence up there.
"He is not totally ready yet, but at the moment we are short in that position, so we are happy to have him back."
Croatia forward Eduardo could also be available this weekend following a hamstring problem, along with combative midfielder Abou Diaby (calf), which would at least give Wenger some options if he wanted to shake up his team selection.
While speculation continues captain Cesc Fabregas could be lured back to Barcelona should Arsenal finish another campaign empty handed, Wenger shows no sign of wavering from his faith in youth.
A deal could be on the cards for Montenegro Under-21 defender Stefan Savic, while Iceland Under-19 midfielder Ingolfur Sigurdsson - who had also been interesting Manchester United - looks set for a trial at London Colney.
Wenger has, though, allowed 18-year-old forward Sanchez Watt, who impressed in the Carling Cup this season, to join Southend on a month's loan.
ps:The article is from http://www.football365.com/
African Champions Egypt move into Fifa top ten
The Pharaohs moved up 14 places to number 10 and are now Africa's number one team.
Not only is this Egypt's highest placing ever, it's also the second highest ever by an African team after Nigeria placed fifth in 1994.
Nigeria moved seven places to 15th and are now Africa's second best placed team in the ranking.
Egypt beat Ghana's Black Stars 1-0 in Sunday's final to win the Africa Cup of Nations in Angola.
It's their third consecutive victory in the competition and their seventh in total.
Other big movers in the Fifa ranking are Ghana who moved seven places to 27th and are now fifth on the African table.
However it's not such good news for Africa's other World Cup bound teams. Cameroon lost nine places and are now 20th in the world, while Ivory Coast and Algeria fell six and five places respectively.
Further down the ranking, Zambia (73rd, up 11) and Malawi (82nd, up 17) also made good progress.
Spain continue to occupy the top spot in the world ranking ahead of Brazil and the Netherlands.
Top ten in Africa:
1. Egypt (10th worldwide)
2. Nigeria (15th worldwide)
3. Cameroon ( 20th worldwide)
4. Ivory Coast (22nd worldwide)
5. Ghana (27th worldwide)
6. Algeria (31st worldwide)
7. Gabon (44th worldwide)
8. Burkina Faso (51st worldwide)
9. Mali (53rd worldwide)
10. Tunisia (55th worldwide)
PS:The article is from http://news.bbc.co.uk/
Not only is this Egypt's highest placing ever, it's also the second highest ever by an African team after Nigeria placed fifth in 1994.
Nigeria moved seven places to 15th and are now Africa's second best placed team in the ranking.
Egypt beat Ghana's Black Stars 1-0 in Sunday's final to win the Africa Cup of Nations in Angola.
It's their third consecutive victory in the competition and their seventh in total.
Other big movers in the Fifa ranking are Ghana who moved seven places to 27th and are now fifth on the African table.
However it's not such good news for Africa's other World Cup bound teams. Cameroon lost nine places and are now 20th in the world, while Ivory Coast and Algeria fell six and five places respectively.
Further down the ranking, Zambia (73rd, up 11) and Malawi (82nd, up 17) also made good progress.
Spain continue to occupy the top spot in the world ranking ahead of Brazil and the Netherlands.
Top ten in Africa:
1. Egypt (10th worldwide)
2. Nigeria (15th worldwide)
3. Cameroon ( 20th worldwide)
4. Ivory Coast (22nd worldwide)
5. Ghana (27th worldwide)
6. Algeria (31st worldwide)
7. Gabon (44th worldwide)
8. Burkina Faso (51st worldwide)
9. Mali (53rd worldwide)
10. Tunisia (55th worldwide)
PS:The article is from http://news.bbc.co.uk/
Di Matteo expected tough test
A see-saw game at Bloomfield Road saw Blackpool take the lead through Keith Southern before Roman Bednar's brace had the Baggies in front at half-time.
Stephen Dobbie equalised on his debut for the hosts before Graham Dorrans' penalty seven minutes from time sent West Brom back into second.
Di Matteo was always expecting a tough examination on the coast and was happy to see his team come through the game with three points.
Fight
"This was a really hard fought match," said the West Brom boss. "We have to dig in and fight for the points.
"Not many teams come here and go away with anything but I am delighted with my players' performance.
"We took our chances well and Roman Bednar did his job up front with two well-taken goals."
Blackpool boss Holloway was unhappy about what he perceived to be a poor penalty call after Ishmael Miller went down with Andy Butler in attendance.
And, despite the Seasiders only being a point outside the play-off places, Holloway also insists the priority is still to stay in the Championship.
Shame
"I said before the game that our next two matches could be defining. It is a shame we had to lose this one on a referee's penalty decision," said Holloway.
"My lads are shattered about that decision because they thought it was a fair tackle.
"However I thought we did well against a side I consider to be the best in the Championship. They have a class squad based on established Premiership players and we gave them a really good run for their money. They know that.
"We will have to see how the next couple of games go but my target for the season was always going to be 52 points and safety. That remains my target, anything else is a bonus."
PS:The article is from http://www.skysports.com/
Portsmouth sign defender Ricardo Rocha on free transfer
The 31-year-old Portugal international signed on a free transfer after Standard Liege released him this week.
BBC Sport understands the cash-strapped Premier League strugglers could be set to add two or three more free agents to their squad as they fight for survival.
Pompey are bottom of the Premier League table and face a winding-up order.
Rocha is fully aware of Portsmouth's predicament and told his new club's website: "When you are at the bottom and trying to get up the table, it is one of the most difficult situations in football. But we have a very good team, with good players and I'm sure we can do it.
"I know from our position in the league that we are struggling a little bit now, but I know that everybody is doing their best to get out of this situation and I'm here to help the team to achieve that goal."
Portsmouth manager Avram Grant is looking for reinforcements after defender Younes Kaboul and goalkeeper Asmir Begovic were sold to Spurs and Stoke respectively this week in an attempt to keep the club afloat as owner Ali Al Faraj looks for much-needed new investment.
The south-coast outfit has been late paying wages to players and staff four times this season and the Premier League will hold on to more than £2m from player sales in January.
Another creditor has also joined in with HM Revenue and Custom's winding-up petition to the High Court on 10 February, with Grosvenor Basingstoke Properties the latest to claim they are owed money by Portsmouth.
However, this is being disputed by the club, who are also hoping to persuade HMRC to reschedule the payments owed on unpaid taxes.
Rocha, who has played for Braga and Benfica in his native Portugal, made 14 Premier League appearances for Spurs between 2007 and 2009.
He moved to Belgium last summer after falling out of favour at White Hart Lane but will now be looking to help Grant lift Pompey out of the mire.
The Portuguese defender added: "It's very good for me to be back. It will be good to be able to show everybody what I can do, and I want to prove it to myself and to the people of Portsmouth. But the most important thing is to help get Portsmouth away from the bottom."
PS:The article is from http://news.bbc.co.uk/
REDKNAPP: PLAYERS MUST BE ROLE MODELS
Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp claims footballers must set the right example with their behaviour.
Stories about John Terry's private life have dominated the newspapers over the past few days and there is speculation about his future as England captain.
Redknapp has stressed only Fabio Capello can make that decision but he believes all players have a moral obligation to behave in the proper manner.
"John Terry, as a player, is a fantastic centre-half," he said.
"Terry is a leader when he plays. He organises and bosses people on the pitch.
"I do not want to be second-guessing what the England manager is going to do. I am sure he will make a decision."
Premier League stars are idolised by youngsters and Redknapp hopes they are aware of their responsibilities.
"There have to be standards, really, I think with young footballers and everybody else," he explained.
"Footballers are young men, but they are role models and they are setting examples to kids out there - and they have to set the right examples.
"Kids look up to them every day and wear their shirts, they are in the public eye and they get very well paid to be in the public eye.
"When we were kids, we all idolised footballers and it's no different now - they all turn up to games with a name and number on the back, whether it's Lampard, [Steven] Gerrard or [Jermain] Defoe."
PS:The artilce is from http://www.football365.com/
Leeds 1-3 Tottenham
Defoe went close several times before slicing left-footed into the top corner but in first-half stoppage time Luciano Becchio forced home a rebound to level.
Defoe had a goal ruled out for offside but soon flicked in at the near post following a David Bentley cross.
In injury time the England striker rounded the goalkeeper to complete his treble for his 20th goal of the season.
When Spurs arrived at Elland Road snow was falling heavily and with Leeds having lost only twice in 21 matches at home this season the scent of an upset was evident.
But the Londoners quietened the hostile home crowd by applying an admirable work ethic to their superior technical ability and dominated for the vast majority of the contest.
The pitch looked heavy through the middle but was perfectly playable, and if anything suited Tottenham's slick passing style more.
Defoe might have scored in the second minute when an attempted header back to the goalkeeper from Andrew Hughes fell woefully short, but the England striker scuffed his shot.
Spurs defender Sebastien Bassong found himself in a surprising amount of space on the penalty spot from Bentley's corner but scooped over when he might have had time to have controlled first.
Defoe looked dangerous whenever the visitors went forward, he should have scored when the ball deflected over the top and found him in the clear, but Casper Ankergren stood up and pushed the shot wide.
dunkarleeds
The Dane then made an even better save when a fizzing Gareth Bale cross ricocheted off a defender and wrong-footed him, but somehow he tipped it away.
Defoe was incensed when, clean through again, he fell under the challenge of Lubomir Michalik but finally he got himself on the scoresheet, and on a night of sweet strikes on goal it came with a mis-hit.
The diminutive forward pulled back away from goal to collect Bentley's cross and though his left-footed shot was skewed it sailed into the top corner.
But with Tottenham again unable to convert their chances Leeds responded valiantly and Michalik's glancing header was smartly kept out by Spurs keeper Heurelho Gomes.
The League One side were back on level terms as Jonathan Howson hooked the ball back into the six-yard box, Jermaine Beckford's volley was parried by Gomes but Becchio followed up, having moved back onside.
Tottenham started the second half in positive manner and Michael Dawson's near post header from Bentley's corner was brilliantly tipped over by Ankergren.
Bentley, playing a third match in succession for the first time in a year, was full of endeavour and after a forceful run he hit a left-footed drive, but the inspirational Ankergren was up to the task again and touched over acrobatically.
Defoe's eventful night continued when having slid in to meet Bale's cross he was correctly given offside having edged ahead of the defender, but within moments he was in the right place at the right time.
Having been well found out on the right flank by Jermaine Jenas, Bentley sent a delightful low cross into the danger area and Defoe brushed it smartly into the net.
With Bale and Bentley superb down the flanks Spurs looked certain to add a third, and Peter Crouch hit the bar with a far post header.
Unlike at White Hart Lane there was to be no late injury time drama from Leeds and it was Defoe who raced on to a ball down the middle and calmly slotted home for his third treble of the season as his side marched into the next round in some style.
PS :The article is from http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/default.stm
Grant coy over future
Pompey put in an improved performance but were again left with nothing as they passed up several opportunities before Jonathan Greening slotted home 16 minutes from time.
The financially-stricken Fratton Park club remain rooted to the foot of the Premier League table after their latest defeat and are six points from safety.
Grant and chief executive Peter Storrie were angered at being kept in the dark over the decision to sell key players such as Younes Kaboul and Asmir Begovic in the transfer window.
Issue
The Israeli dodged questions over whether he would remain at the helm and insists the focus must be on ensuring the club's supporters still have a team to follow.
He told Sky Sports: "I keep saying I am not the subject, I am not the issue. The issue is the club, the issue is the fans. The fans today were great.
"The club belongs to the city and this is the life of the fans. The future of the club is what is important."
When asked again about his own position, the former Chelsea boss replied: "It doesn't matter, what matters is the future of the club, the club is more important than anybody."
Grant admitted that his side were made to pay for their inability to beat Mark Schwarzer with both Frederic Piquionne and Aruna Dindane guilty of squandering decent opportunities.
Frustrating
He said: "It is very difficult. The last two games, especially today, we have played so well. We dominated the game and created a lot of chances, but then from one mistake we lost the game.
"It is very frustrating because we are playing football not of a team from the bottom of the league, but we deserve to be much, much higher. But this is football, it is a game of results.
"We need to learn to take our chances. The boys really tried hard, they played good football and created a lot of chances, but they need to put the ball in the net.
"When you don't put the ball in the net, you make one mistake and we have lost the game.
"When they come to the pitch they are trying to do their best. Of course, it is not easy, but they tried hard and they fight, they played good football. Except for the result, everything was good today.
PS :The article is from http://www.skysports.com/
TERRY SILENT UNTIL CAPELLO TALKS
John Terry will not be making any public statements on his future as England captain until after a meeting with Fabio Capello.
The Three Lions and Chelsea skipper has been thrown into the centre of a media storm following a series of revelations over his private life.
Details of the centre-back's alleged affair with the former girlfriend of international colleague Wayne Bridge were disclosed last week, after a court injunction he had obtained was overturned.
This has led to frenzied reporting in the media and calls for his resignation as captain of his country from some quarters over his off-field antics.
Sky Sports News has learned Terry has no intention of relinquishing the armband, but the Football Association has already made it clear that any decision on his future as captain would be left to head coach Capello.
The Italian, known for his strict approach to team discipline, is due in England later this week before he travels to Poland at the weekend ahead of the draw for Euro 2012 qualifying.
Capello is set to meet with Terry at some point before next week, when he is set to decide on whether to appoint a new captain or not.
And Terry has made it clear that any communication over his role as skipper of England will come from Capello, the only man who will decide his fate.
Phil Hall, Terry's spokesman, said: "John Terry asked me to make it clear that he has made absolutely no statement about his future as England captain.
"He is keeping his own counsel until he speaks to England manager Fabio Capello and then Mr Capello will decide what announcement will be made."
The Three Lions and Chelsea skipper has been thrown into the centre of a media storm following a series of revelations over his private life.
Details of the centre-back's alleged affair with the former girlfriend of international colleague Wayne Bridge were disclosed last week, after a court injunction he had obtained was overturned.
This has led to frenzied reporting in the media and calls for his resignation as captain of his country from some quarters over his off-field antics.
Sky Sports News has learned Terry has no intention of relinquishing the armband, but the Football Association has already made it clear that any decision on his future as captain would be left to head coach Capello.
The Italian, known for his strict approach to team discipline, is due in England later this week before he travels to Poland at the weekend ahead of the draw for Euro 2012 qualifying.
Capello is set to meet with Terry at some point before next week, when he is set to decide on whether to appoint a new captain or not.
And Terry has made it clear that any communication over his role as skipper of England will come from Capello, the only man who will decide his fate.
Phil Hall, Terry's spokesman, said: "John Terry asked me to make it clear that he has made absolutely no statement about his future as England captain.
"He is keeping his own counsel until he speaks to England manager Fabio Capello and then Mr Capello will decide what announcement will be made."
Boss proud of Leeds effort
The League One high fliers' fine cup run eventually ended courtesy of Jermain Defoe's hat-trick in a 3-1 fifth round replay defeat.
But Grayson did not carry the look of a crestfallen manager after the game and was clearly proud of his players' performance in front of a passionate Elland Road full house.
He said: "We were very good again. We passed the ball around well and competed ever so well against a top team in the Premier League.
"That's all we said to the players - give a good account of yourself and do yourselves justice.
"Nobody expected us to win apart from maybe 33,000 inside the ground and the players, but we like to think we've come out of it with a lot of credit."
Spurs boss Harry Redknapp was full of praise for the Yorkshiremen, who had pushed his side all the way after their famous third-round upset at Manchester United.
"These are difficult games," Redknapp added. "I've won and lost these games when you're fancied to win.
"We came to Elland Road - probably the first time for some of my players. The atmosphere the fans created was just incredible.
"This is a massive football club. It's really a Premier League club and it needs to get back where it belongs.
"Leeds are a good side and they'll certainly go up this year and I can see them being back in the Premier League in the next few years."
John Terry will not quit England captaincy before talks
They are expected to meet on Friday to discuss allegations Terry had an affair with a team-mate's ex-girlfriend.
The Football Association has made it clear Capello alone will decide the 29-year-old Chelsea defender's fate.
The England coach has been recovering from knee surgery at his holiday home in Switzerland and will return to London on Thursday.
Terry issued a brief statement on Wednesday insisting he would be "keeping his own counsel" until he had held talks with Capello.
He has been monitoring the fall-out from the Terry saga closely and has regularly spoken on the telephone to his trusted lieutenant Franco Baldini.
Baldini, England's general manager, held in-depth talks with four key FA board members on Monday - chairman Lord Triesman, chief executive Ian Watmore, director of communications Adrian Bevington and head of development Trevor Brooking.
Terry did not distract us - Ancelotti
They agreed that Capello alone would make the decision about Terry's future and that the priority was to make the right decision rather than a quick decision.
This is despite the fact that some members of the FA are eager for the issue to be resolved before England's manager attends the Euro 2012 qualifying draw in Warsaw on Sunday.
If Capello does make a decision before Sunday, it is believed he would then inform the assembled media in the Polish capital.
Terry is alleged to have had an extra-marital affair with Vanessa Perroncel, the former girlfriend of England team-mate Wayne Bridge.
The French model is being advised by public relations guru Max Clifford, who claims Perroncel has already been offered £250,000 to tell her side of the story.
The possibility of Perroncel making further damaging revelations about Terry in a Sunday newspaper is another reason why Capello may want to wait before making a decision about his skipper.
2010年2月2日星期二
Aberdeen 0 - 1 Falkirk
The Irishman smashed the ball into the top corner on 31 minutes to give the Bairns a deserved win over the Dons, who offered little in attack.
Eddie May's side should have put the game beyond doubt but squandered a number of chances in the second half.
But they held on for all three points to lift themselves off the bottom of the Scottish Premier League table.
Falkirk's first win at Pittodrie since 1958 leaves Hamilton Accies propping up the rest, below the Bairns on goal difference.
Aberdeen's new loan signings from Plymouth, Steven MacLean and Jim Paterson, made their debuts following the deadline-day departure of Lee Miller to Middlesbrough.
Steven MacLean (left) made his debut for Aberdeen
Fit-again Zander Diamond was handed his first start since the opening day of the season, with Derek Young and Davide Grassi dropping to the bench.
Kieran Duffy was preferred to former Don Jackie McNamara in the Bairns defence and Carl Finnigan starting ahead of Jack Compton.
And, although Aberdeen made the brighter start, it was the visitors who could have taken an early lead when Enoch Showunmi outmuscled Jerel Ifil, but goalkeeper Jamie Langfield gathered at the feet of the former Leeds striker.
Paterson, playing at left-back, fired over after 11 minutes before skipper Mark Kerr followed suit as the home side's pressure began to mount.
Charlie Mulgrew almost gave the Dons the lead after 23 minutes with a curling free-kick that goalkeeper Robert Olejnik just managed to keep out.
Falkirk took the lead against the run of play when Finnigan laid the ball into the path of Irishman Healy, who fired past Langfield from 20 yards.
The Dons should have equalised four minutes later when Paterson's corner found the head of Darren Mackie, but the striker somehow managed to head over from six yards.
The visitors could have doubled their advantage within four minutes of the break when Marc Twaddle headed Healy's cross into the path of McLean, whose effort was blocked by Langfield.
Falkirk should have put the game beyond doubt after 63 minutes, but substitute Mark Stewart failed to connect with Showunmi's enticing ball across the face of goal before Ryan Flynn was brilliantly denied by a one-handed Langfield save.
Langfield could then only parry a Vitor Lima strike from distance before Stewart fired over from inside the area as the Bairns pressed for a second.
The visitors continued to threaten on the counter-attack with Showunmi causing plenty of problems for the Dons rearguard.
Aberdeen did muster a late rally with Derek Young's cross-cum-shot being pushed away by Olejnik for a fruitless corner.
And, with three minutes to go, the Austrian goalkeeper pulled off a tremendous save to deny substitute Michael Paton to ensure his side departed with maximum points.
CAPELLO WON`T STALL ON TERRY
Fabio Capello is expected to announce on Friday whether John Terry will keep the England captaincy.
The England head coach is considering the options available to him following newspaper allegations that the Chelsea skipper had an affair with the former partner of international team-mate Wayne Bridge.
Capello is understood to be keen to have the issue settled before he travels to Warsaw for the Euro 2012 qualifying draw this weekend.
He has asked his assistant Franco Baldini, who is more fluent in English than Capello, to handle the situation and to keep in touch with 29-year-old Terry.
When Capello returns to England on Thursday - he was due to have an appointment today with a consultant in Switzerland about his recent knee surgery - he will then assess the situation and a decision is likely to be announced on Friday.
The idea behind making a decision swiftly is that it would leave Capello able to concentrate on the draw on Sunday without the distraction of the captaincy issue.
It is unclear, however, whether Capello will deem it necessary to have a face-to-face meeting with Terry before making his decision or be content to rely on Baldini's conversations with the player.
The key factor in Capello's mind will be what is least damaging for the England team.
In the short term, there is a friendly match looming against Egypt on March 3, for which both Terry and Bridge - if fit - would both normally be selected for the squad.
Beyond that, Capello is looking to the World Cup finals in South Africa in June and must decide which course of action could impact least on the team's chances of success.
The FA have said Capello will make his decision "on footballing grounds".
An FA spokesman said last night: "Fabio is fully up to speed with developments regarding John Terry. He spoke with our chairman Lord Triesman and chief executive Ian Watmore today, who both backed him to make the best decision for England on footballing grounds.
"Fabio is dealing with the matter in his own way using his extensive experience as a football manager."
Bridge's former girlfriend, the woman reported to have had an affair with Terry, is determined to protect her young son from the media frenzy.
Vanessa Perroncel remains at the centre of a bidding war for her story - with offers believed to be around £250,000.
But her publicist Max Clifford said Ms Perroncel's main concern remained her son with Bridge, three-year-old Jaydon.
The French underwear model was doing everything possible to make sure the youngster remained "unaware" of the media furore.
And the publicist added that he did not believe Ms Perroncel was in love with the England skipper, although they had been "close friends" for years.
Mr Clifford, who has been handling negotiations on Ms Perroncel's behalf, said her son was collected by his father on Tuesday morning and taken to his Manchester home.
"Wayne came down to pick up their little boy at about 10am. He was at the house for about five or 10 minutes before they went back to Manchester," he said.
"Obviously the pair of them are both doing everything they can to make life as normal as possible for their son who is only three years old.
"He seems to be okay. Obviously they are trying to make sure that as far as possible he is unaware of what's going on."
And he said the couple, who have yet to speak out about the allegations, were going through "a very emotional time".
"It's a horrible feeling to know you are being betrayed by a close friend," said Mr Clifford. "They are all going through a very bad time. It's a very emotional time for both of them."
Bridge, 29, who plays for Manchester City, will look after Jaydon for the next couple of days. He and Ms Perroncel have shared childcare since their relationship ended in July.
Mr Clifford brushed off allegations relating to further misdemeanours made in the press.
He has so far refused to be drawn on the veracity of the alleged affair, but has insisted some press claims were incorrect.
And he dismissed suggestions Ms Perroncel was in love with the Chelsea defender - a "close friend" of many years - telling Sky News: "That's not the impression she's given me."
He also denied suggestions the model had received a "counter offer" from the England captain to stop her from going public.
A final decision on whether she will sell her story has yet to be made, though six media outlets have reputedly submitted bids for her take on events.
The England head coach is considering the options available to him following newspaper allegations that the Chelsea skipper had an affair with the former partner of international team-mate Wayne Bridge.
Capello is understood to be keen to have the issue settled before he travels to Warsaw for the Euro 2012 qualifying draw this weekend.
He has asked his assistant Franco Baldini, who is more fluent in English than Capello, to handle the situation and to keep in touch with 29-year-old Terry.
When Capello returns to England on Thursday - he was due to have an appointment today with a consultant in Switzerland about his recent knee surgery - he will then assess the situation and a decision is likely to be announced on Friday.
The idea behind making a decision swiftly is that it would leave Capello able to concentrate on the draw on Sunday without the distraction of the captaincy issue.
It is unclear, however, whether Capello will deem it necessary to have a face-to-face meeting with Terry before making his decision or be content to rely on Baldini's conversations with the player.
The key factor in Capello's mind will be what is least damaging for the England team.
In the short term, there is a friendly match looming against Egypt on March 3, for which both Terry and Bridge - if fit - would both normally be selected for the squad.
Beyond that, Capello is looking to the World Cup finals in South Africa in June and must decide which course of action could impact least on the team's chances of success.
The FA have said Capello will make his decision "on footballing grounds".
An FA spokesman said last night: "Fabio is fully up to speed with developments regarding John Terry. He spoke with our chairman Lord Triesman and chief executive Ian Watmore today, who both backed him to make the best decision for England on footballing grounds.
"Fabio is dealing with the matter in his own way using his extensive experience as a football manager."
Bridge's former girlfriend, the woman reported to have had an affair with Terry, is determined to protect her young son from the media frenzy.
Vanessa Perroncel remains at the centre of a bidding war for her story - with offers believed to be around £250,000.
But her publicist Max Clifford said Ms Perroncel's main concern remained her son with Bridge, three-year-old Jaydon.
The French underwear model was doing everything possible to make sure the youngster remained "unaware" of the media furore.
And the publicist added that he did not believe Ms Perroncel was in love with the England skipper, although they had been "close friends" for years.
Mr Clifford, who has been handling negotiations on Ms Perroncel's behalf, said her son was collected by his father on Tuesday morning and taken to his Manchester home.
"Wayne came down to pick up their little boy at about 10am. He was at the house for about five or 10 minutes before they went back to Manchester," he said.
"Obviously the pair of them are both doing everything they can to make life as normal as possible for their son who is only three years old.
"He seems to be okay. Obviously they are trying to make sure that as far as possible he is unaware of what's going on."
And he said the couple, who have yet to speak out about the allegations, were going through "a very emotional time".
"It's a horrible feeling to know you are being betrayed by a close friend," said Mr Clifford. "They are all going through a very bad time. It's a very emotional time for both of them."
Bridge, 29, who plays for Manchester City, will look after Jaydon for the next couple of days. He and Ms Perroncel have shared childcare since their relationship ended in July.
Mr Clifford brushed off allegations relating to further misdemeanours made in the press.
He has so far refused to be drawn on the veracity of the alleged affair, but has insisted some press claims were incorrect.
And he dismissed suggestions Ms Perroncel was in love with the Chelsea defender - a "close friend" of many years - telling Sky News: "That's not the impression she's given me."
He also denied suggestions the model had received a "counter offer" from the England captain to stop her from going public.
A final decision on whether she will sell her story has yet to be made, though six media outlets have reputedly submitted bids for her take on events.
McCarthy - We were second best
A disappointing night for the Premier League outfit in the capital saw them crash out of the FA Cup after suffering a 3-1 defeat in a fourth-round replay at Selhurst Park.
In truth, Wolves were second best throughout the contest and could have few complaints about seeing their cup dreams dashed.
A second-half hat-trick from Danny Butterfield put them to the sword, with Karl Henry's consolation coming too late to turn the tide.
McCarthy admitted afterwards that Palace were full value for their comprehensive success, with Wolves never in contention.
Well beaten
"I should congratulate Palace," he said.
"They have beaten us and beaten us well. They thoroughly deserved it.
"We didn't mark for the first goal and after that it was a downward spiral.
"We were out-thought and out-fought. I didn't see it coming.
"But I'm not going to condemn my team - I've already done that to them personally."
Brown sees 'turning point'
The Tigers frustrated Carlo Ancelotti's visitors as Didier Drogba was forced to cancel out Steven Mouyokolo's opener to earn the Blues a disappointing, hard-fought point in what was their game in hand over title rivals Manchester United and Arsenal.
Hull are contrastingly fighting a relegation battle and, despite climbing one place as a result of the draw, remain inside the drop zone after a disappointing campaign which had threatened to cost Brown his job prior to Christmas.
The ex-Derby boss recently saw his current side lose 3-1 and 4-0 to United in the space of a month having played well against the champions but he thinks there was evidence against Chelsea that suggests performances are now being rewarded.
Brown, who also guided Hull to a 2-2 draw with Wolves at the weekend, told Sky Sports: "The Premier League is un-relentless or un-merciful, it just doesn't give you anything. You have to graft for everything.
Hull are contrastingly fighting a relegation battle and, despite climbing one place as a result of the draw, remain inside the drop zone after a disappointing campaign which had threatened to cost Brown his job prior to Christmas.
The ex-Derby boss recently saw his current side lose 3-1 and 4-0 to United in the space of a month having played well against the champions but he thinks there was evidence against Chelsea that suggests performances are now being rewarded.
Brown, who also guided Hull to a 2-2 draw with Wolves at the weekend, told Sky Sports: "The Premier League is un-relentless or un-merciful, it just doesn't give you anything. You have to graft for everything.
Sir Alex Ferguson wary of David Beckham 'media circus'
Manchester United take on the Serie A side at the San Siro on 16 February and then at Old Trafford on 10 March.
"Our job is to concentrate on the football match and let the David Beckham media circus carry on," the United boss told the club's magazine.
Ex-United midfielder Beckham, 34, is in his second loan spell with Milan.
The Los Angeles Galaxy player hopes his performances will persuade England boss Fabio Capello to include him in the squad for this summer's World Cup.
"I think I told him myself last year when I saw him before our game against Inter that he should be thinking about getting back to Europe if he wanted to go to the World Cup," said Ferguson.
UNITED4INAROW
"It looks like he might just get his wish now. He had a good spell with Milan last time, so it made sense to me to see him back there again."
Ferguson sees the tie as United's biggest of the season so far.
"I think so, yes," stated the Scot. "The European Cup is always special to us and we've had some marvellous nights at Old Trafford. I just hope we have another one.
"We're away from home in the first leg, which won't be easy, but I'm certain the tie will be decided back at Old Trafford.
Beckham began his career with United before joining Spanish giants Real Madrid for £25m in 2003.
He later moved to the United States to join Major League Soccer side LA Galaxy, who have approved his two loan spells with Milan.
The second leg of the last-16 tie will be the first time the former England captain has played against United at Old Trafford.
"The only difference with David's return to Manchester United compared with other players is that there will be a big media circus surrounding him when Milan arrive," added Ferguson.
"He's such a high-profile celebrity - not just a high-profile footballer - and we haven't really seen anybody else return to the club in that situation."
Wigan 0 Notts County 2
Notts County caused a major upset at the DW Stadium as two late goals saw them defeat Wigan and book a place in the FA Cup fifth round.
Having survived a series of Wigan attempts on goal, League Two promotion hopefuls County took a shock lead with 15 minutes to go as Stephen Hunt headed home Ben Davies' corner.
Gary Caldwell then scored an own goal three minutes later to leave the Premier League side stunned and the Magpies looking forward to a trip to Fulham a week on Sunday.
It was an inspirational victory for cash-strapped County, the lowest-ranked team left in the competition, and well deserved.
The visitors had chances from the early stages of the match. They won a free-kick in the seventh minute when Titus Bramble bundled Lee Hughes over, but Johnnie Jackson's delivery was easily cleared by Caldwell.
Seconds later Jordi Gomez found some space midway into the County half and tried a speculative effort from 30 yards which Kasper Schmeichel had little trouble dealing with.
Gomez then sent Emmerson Boyce through on the right but the defender shot wide, and Jason Scotland, playing as a lone striker, looked as unconvincing as he had done on Saturday against Everton after getting himself into a one-on-one situation with Schmeichel, hitting a tame effort straight at the goalkeeper.
The Magpies began to assert themselves just before the half hour and Mike Edwards sent a looping header over the bar from Davies' corner before Hughes stung Vladimir Stojkovic's palms with a fierce shot taken just outside the box.
Scott Sinclair responded at the other end, dribbling past several defenders and sending a low drive across Schmeichel's goal, but it was County on the attack again a minute later as Davies brought another save out of Stojkovic.
The Serbian goalkeeper failed to deal with the resulting corner and the ball fell to Neal Bishop, who was unlucky to see his shot deflected wide.
Paul Scharner then hit a volley at Schmeichel, but once again the effort lacked conviction.
Wigan came out for the second half with renewed purpose and almost broke the deadlock less than a minute after the restart.
Scotland was again unable to convert from a good position, although this time it took an impressive save to deny him, Schmeichel clawing the striker's close-range header away for a corner.
Five minutes later Gomez swung in a useful cross for Scharner at the far post, but it was just behind the Austrian, who was unable to direct his header properly.
Sinclair then wasted a glorious opportunity chasing a through-ball and colliding with Schmeichel.
The winger got up quickly and had an empty net to shoot at while Schmeichel remained on the ground, but his snap-shot was off-target and County survived.
Scotland then saw his drive deflected wide and Gomez struck a bobbling effort which Schmeichel turned behind for a corner.
With his team seemingly in the ascendancy, Roberto Martinez brought on some fresh legs in the form of Charles N'Zogbia and James McCarthy, but it did not improve the standard of the finishing.
Scotland sent another effort wide after being fed by Boyce and Scharner had the ball in the net, but only via a hole in the side-netting.
Sinclair and Gomez were next to fire in at Schmeichel, but on both occasions there was insufficient power and the goalkeeper saved comfortably.
It seemed only a matter of time before Wigan scored, but with 20 minutes remaining Hughes curled a wonderful effort out of nowhere which Stojkovic had to fully extend himself to push away.
Magpies caretaker boss Dave Kevan then drew boos from the travelling support as he chose to take Hughes off, but minutes later the County fans were on their feet as Hunt met Davies' corner with a crashing header past Stojkovic.
Suddenly the tie had a completely different complexion, and before Wigan knew what was happening, they had conceded again as Davies' cross bounced in off Caldwell with 12 minutes remaining.
Gomez tried to hit back with a drive that went high and wide but County almost made it 3-0 shortly afterwards as substitute Luke Rodgers flashed a shot narrowly over.
Having survived a series of Wigan attempts on goal, League Two promotion hopefuls County took a shock lead with 15 minutes to go as Stephen Hunt headed home Ben Davies' corner.
Gary Caldwell then scored an own goal three minutes later to leave the Premier League side stunned and the Magpies looking forward to a trip to Fulham a week on Sunday.
It was an inspirational victory for cash-strapped County, the lowest-ranked team left in the competition, and well deserved.
The visitors had chances from the early stages of the match. They won a free-kick in the seventh minute when Titus Bramble bundled Lee Hughes over, but Johnnie Jackson's delivery was easily cleared by Caldwell.
Seconds later Jordi Gomez found some space midway into the County half and tried a speculative effort from 30 yards which Kasper Schmeichel had little trouble dealing with.
Gomez then sent Emmerson Boyce through on the right but the defender shot wide, and Jason Scotland, playing as a lone striker, looked as unconvincing as he had done on Saturday against Everton after getting himself into a one-on-one situation with Schmeichel, hitting a tame effort straight at the goalkeeper.
The Magpies began to assert themselves just before the half hour and Mike Edwards sent a looping header over the bar from Davies' corner before Hughes stung Vladimir Stojkovic's palms with a fierce shot taken just outside the box.
Scott Sinclair responded at the other end, dribbling past several defenders and sending a low drive across Schmeichel's goal, but it was County on the attack again a minute later as Davies brought another save out of Stojkovic.
The Serbian goalkeeper failed to deal with the resulting corner and the ball fell to Neal Bishop, who was unlucky to see his shot deflected wide.
Paul Scharner then hit a volley at Schmeichel, but once again the effort lacked conviction.
Wigan came out for the second half with renewed purpose and almost broke the deadlock less than a minute after the restart.
Scotland was again unable to convert from a good position, although this time it took an impressive save to deny him, Schmeichel clawing the striker's close-range header away for a corner.
Five minutes later Gomez swung in a useful cross for Scharner at the far post, but it was just behind the Austrian, who was unable to direct his header properly.
Sinclair then wasted a glorious opportunity chasing a through-ball and colliding with Schmeichel.
The winger got up quickly and had an empty net to shoot at while Schmeichel remained on the ground, but his snap-shot was off-target and County survived.
Scotland then saw his drive deflected wide and Gomez struck a bobbling effort which Schmeichel turned behind for a corner.
With his team seemingly in the ascendancy, Roberto Martinez brought on some fresh legs in the form of Charles N'Zogbia and James McCarthy, but it did not improve the standard of the finishing.
Scotland sent another effort wide after being fed by Boyce and Scharner had the ball in the net, but only via a hole in the side-netting.
Sinclair and Gomez were next to fire in at Schmeichel, but on both occasions there was insufficient power and the goalkeeper saved comfortably.
It seemed only a matter of time before Wigan scored, but with 20 minutes remaining Hughes curled a wonderful effort out of nowhere which Stojkovic had to fully extend himself to push away.
Magpies caretaker boss Dave Kevan then drew boos from the travelling support as he chose to take Hughes off, but minutes later the County fans were on their feet as Hunt met Davies' corner with a crashing header past Stojkovic.
Suddenly the tie had a completely different complexion, and before Wigan knew what was happening, they had conceded again as Davies' cross bounced in off Caldwell with 12 minutes remaining.
Gomez tried to hit back with a drive that went high and wide but County almost made it 3-0 shortly afterwards as substitute Luke Rodgers flashed a shot narrowly over.
Maguire strike sinks Hoops
On-loan Spurs striker Robbie Keane made his Celtic debut and had the best chance of the first period but Killie keeper Cameron Bell produced a fine double save.
The home side then took the lead when the unmarked Maguire, who was also making his debut on loan from Aberdeen, slotted home on 53 minutes from a Mehdi Taouil pass.
Bell saved again from Keane as Killie held on for a memorable win against the Hoops - their first in 32 meetings - to rise to third from bottom in the table.
Tony Mowbray's side remain 10 points behind Rangers at the top, but now have played the same number of games as their rivals.
The outcome was eerily similar to Roy Keane's Celtic debut, which ended in a Scottish Cup shock at Clyde.
Namesake Robbie - who was treated to a hero's welcome by thousands of delirious Hoops fans after signing on Monday night - was joined in Celtic's starting XI by fellow new boy Diomansy Kamara, while the fit-again Glenn Loovens and Lee Naylor were recalled.
Killie - who had lost 29 and drew only two of their previous 31 games with the Hoops - handed Tim Clancy a first appearance since September as well as unveiling Maguire.
It was thought Keane's signing would spark a rush of ticket sales for the clash, which had been rearranged after the big freeze claimed December's original fixture.
There was certainly a large travelling contingent, who greeted the arrival of their new idol in similar fashion to his midnight unveiling.
Centre stage
But it was Ki Sung-Yueng who took centre stage in a strong Celtic opening, blasting over in the fifth minute before seeing a free-kick tipped wide by Bell two minutes later.
Killie's Liam Kelly tested Artur Boruc from long range and Jamie Hamill poked wide from too tight an angle.
He then curled a shot straight into the arms of Boruc before Celtic almost scored against the run of play 20 minutes in when Garry Hay cleared Marc-Antoine Fortune's flick from Kamara's corner off the line.
Kamara, who had been virtually anonymous to that point, then bulldozed his way to the edge of the box before shooting wide.
Celtic were forced into a change on the half-hour when Andreas Hinkel suffered what looked a thigh injury and had to be replaced by Paul Caddis.
Keane's first attempt on goal immediately followed, the Republic of Ireland captain shooting wide from 15 yards.
He sent a cheeky chip over the bar five minutes later but Killie were still enjoying much of the ball, having taken confidence from Saturday's comeback against Dundee United.
Seven minutes before half-time, Keane should have scored but he sidefooted straight at Bell after bursting through one on one with the Killie keeper, who then saved the rebound from close range.
Celtic began the second period much as they had the first, with Fortune seeing a shot deflected behind six minutes in after turning well in the box.
Low finish
But Killie broke up the other end and scored just over a minute later, Taouil exchanging passes with Clancy inside the box and squaring for Maguire to finish low beyond Boruc.
Mowbray responded by bringing on Josh Thompson for Jos Hooiveld at the back before Aiden McGeady was booked for a touchline foul on Hay.
Landry NGuemo quickly followed for a lunging challenge on Craig Bryson.
Killie introduced Conor Sammon for Taouil just past the hour mark as the visitors began to press.
Keane volleyed Fortune's cross wide with 25 minutes remaining, though he was adamant the shot was deflected.
With 17 minutes left, Mowbray played his final card by throwing on Scott Brown for Naylor, the fit-again midfielder's first appearance for almost three months.
Killie also brought on new loan signing Rob Kiernan for Clancy.
Loovens glanced Kamara's corner past the far post before Scott Severin was also handed his Kilmarnock debut, replacing Maguire with 10 minutes to go.
Ki volleyed narrowly wide as Celtic's desperation grew.
Hamill missed a good chance to put the game to bed when he shot straight at Boruc and Keane saw a second great opportunity go begging when the outstanding Bell saved with his feet moments later.
Brown headed straight at the keeper in the closing moments as Killie held on for a famous victory.
Hull 1 Chelsea 1
Didier Drogba marked his return from African Nations Cup duty by notching his 20th goal of the season to spare Chelsea's blushes against lowly Hull.
All eyes were, inevitably, on John Terry in his second match since allegations over his private life were made public but it was Hull centre-back Steven Mouyokolo who grabbed the limelight by heading the Barclays Premier League strugglers in front.
Drogba, in his first Blues match for a month, snared a point for the table-toppers when he drilled home a contested free-kick just before the interval.
Hull started confidently, winning corners on the left and right inside two minutes.
Chelsea repelled them safely but Stephen Hunt's delivery looked dangerous and the home side were assured in the opening minutes.
Terry started solidly and did not appear outwardly affected by the expected round of boos and chants.
In the ninth minute Frank Lampard had the first chance of the match, capping a nice passing move with a swerving shot at goal. Boaz Myhill could only parry it to Nicolas Anelka 10 yards out but the Frenchman fluffed his finish.
Drogba was also off-target as he blazed wide soon after.
Hunt was looking dangerous down the left for Hull and Branislav Ivanovic appeared unsettled by the bustling Irishman.
Chelsea should have taken the lead 25 minutes in when Deco's crossfield ball set Ivanovic free on the right and he arrowed a cross into the Hull area. Michael Ballack timed his run perfectly but headed tamely and straight at Myhill from close range.
Hull continued to give as good as they got, though, with crosses from Hunt and George Boateng both causing problems.
It was, then, no great surprise when Mouyokolo outjumped a number of Chelsea defenders, Terry included, to head home Hunt's 29th-minute corner.
Anelka and Deco failed to beat Myhill with low drives as Chelsea fought back and Anthony Gardner made good ground to dispossess Drogba as he shaped to shoot.
With three minutes to go before the break the Ivorian striker lashed home the equaliser with a disputed free-kick from just outside the penalty area.
Gardner missed a glorious chance to restore the lead before the break when he headed Tom Cairney's flighted free-kick over from just a couple of yards.
Terry was booked a minute after the restart for an ungainly leap with Jozy Altidore and it was almost a costly foul.
Hunt again sent in the cross and Altidore was left free in the box six yards out. He stooped to head goalwards but it looped up softly off the back of his head.
Ivanovic forced another parried save from Myhill in the 50th minute but when the loose ball was cut back across goal Lampard skied his shot.
Hull were furious when Mark Clattenburg deemed Ricardo Carvalho's risky challenge on Altidore legal, but there was more to worry about at the other end as the hour-mark approached. First Drogba and then Terry drew Myhill into action with strong headed efforts as the hosts failed to clear a corner.
Five minutes later Amr Zaki came off the bench for his second Tigers appearance and immediately had some joy as he got the better of Yury Zhirkov to reach the byline.
Ancelotti introduced a fresh playmaker of his own with 19 minutes to play, Joe Cole replacing the off-colour Ballack.
Chelsea's defending at set-pieces continued to falter as Hunt and Mouyokolo combined again with a near-post corner, though this time the defender headed wide.
Drogba was also off-target in the 77th minute, heading over Ivanovic's curling delivery as last man Myhill charged off his line.
Drogba was booked late on for a frustrated flick at Paul McShane and Myhill ensured the Tigers held on to a valuable point as he stretched to save Daniel Sturridge's late strike.
Mackay happy to keep Loach
Watford boss Malky Mackay expressed his delight at being able to keep Scott Loach as Kevin Blackwell revealed his surprise at Sheffield United's performance in the 3-0 defeat at Vicarage Road.
England Under 21 goalkeeper Loach was the subject of interest from Tottenham Hotspur on transfer deadline day, but Watford resisted the offer from the Premier League club.
Loach responded with another sound display for the Hornets as goals from Tom Cleverley, Heidar Helguson and Don Cowie secured a first win of 2010.
Speaking after the game, Mackay offered his gratitude to the club's board that the chance to bring in some much-needed funds from the sale of Loach was turned down.
England Under 21 goalkeeper Loach was the subject of interest from Tottenham Hotspur on transfer deadline day, but Watford resisted the offer from the Premier League club.
Loach responded with another sound display for the Hornets as goals from Tom Cleverley, Heidar Helguson and Don Cowie secured a first win of 2010.
Speaking after the game, Mackay offered his gratitude to the club's board that the chance to bring in some much-needed funds from the sale of Loach was turned down.
Hull 1 - 1 Chelsea
Hull City produced a manful performance to hold Chelsea to a surprise draw as the title hopefuls missed the chance to take their league lead to four points.
The Londoners were lacklustre to say the least, but that was down in no small part to Hull's brave approach.
And it was the hosts who took the lead when Steven Mouyokolo headed home.
Didier Drogba marked his return from Africa Cup of Nations duty with the equaliser from a free-kick, but Hull comfortably held on to a precious draw.
It was no less than the hosts deserved from an all-action display and even though the result was not enough to move them out of the bottom three, it could provide a welcome fillip as they enter the crucial stages of their battle against relegation.
We more than competed - Brown
Chelsea, meanwhile, can comfort themselves with the knowledge they go two points clear of Manchester United and six of Arsenal at the top of the table.
Boss Carlo Ancelotti will surely consider this a missed opportunity, though, especially with a home match against the Gunners to come on Sunday.
The Gunners' comprehensive defeat to United at the weekend looked to have turned the race for the Premier League title into a two-horse race, especially with Chelsea widely expected to move on to 57 points from 24 games with victory at the KC Stadium.
On paper, it looked a straightforward task. Six straight wins in which they have scored 21 goals and conceded only four marked Chelsea out as clear favourites against a Hull side without a win in nine.
But the hosts' disciplined and forceful approach, typified - as so often - by Stephen Hunt, stultified a Chelsea side far from their best.
606: DEBATE
Your game against Arsenal & your trip to Old Trafford just became a whole lot more important!
scobiedog
The title chasers did have two good efforts in the first half hour; Frank Lampard forced a smart stop from Boaz Myhill with a dipping 20-yarder, while Michael Ballack tamely headed Branislav Ivanovic's superb cross from the right straight at the keeper.
However, they were only the briefest glimpses of the visitors' quality as they failed to get out of first gear in the face of Hull's high-tempo tactics.
It was testament to the hosts' first-half play that it was no great surprise when they took the lead, and even less so that it was from a set-piece.
Of the 19 league goals Chelsea have conceded this season before the game, 14 had come from set-pieces, and the visitors struggled to deal with Hull's dead-ball situations throughout.
And Mouyokolo took full advantage on the half hour as he headed home Hunt's corner unmarked from six yards out.
Ancelotti positive at top spot
It served only to prompt a response from Chelsea, though, as they finally snapped out of their malaise long enough to equalise through Drogba's pin-point free-kick from the edge of the box.
Any expectations that Hull would sink into their shell were wide of the mark, though.
They continued to threaten from set plays, Anthony Gardner and Jozy Altidore both guilty of profligacy in front of goal from well directed Hunt deliveries.
Myhill kept the scores level at the other end, sprawling one way and then the other to stop headers from Drogba and John Terry, booed throughout following press revelations about his private life, in quick succession.
And that meant, with 15 minutes left, the match was finely in the balance.
However, a grand assault from the visitors never even looked like coming, their final ball and incision in front of goal - as it had been all throughout the match - absent.
With the away fans streaming for the exits there was at least a fine effort from substitute Daniel Sturridge, his left-footed shot tipped round the post by Myhill.
But it was too little, too late from Chelsea, who will be desperate for an improved performance against Arsenal knowing the title race once again looks to be a three-horse race.
2010年2月1日星期一
Keane agrees Celtic move
The Republic of Ireland international emerged as a potential target for the Hoops on a frantic transfer deadline day.
With the experienced frontman currently out of favour at White Hart Lane, Tony Mowbray hoped to convince Spurs that the 29-year-old would be better served taking in a spell at Parkhead.
Harry Redknapp, reluctant to stands in Keane's way, has agreed to such a request and is happy to let the Irishman stay in Scotland until the end of the season.
Celtic have verbally agreed a deal with the player, who is currently on his way to Glasgow to put the finishing touches to the switch.
It is understood that an agreement will be official announced by Celtic at 11pm.
Great connection
Scottish clubs have until midnight to complete their transfer business during the winter window.
"We've been pretty persistent in the last few windows in terms of keeping in touch with what he was wanting to do," Celtic chief executive Peter Lawwell told Sky Sports News.
"Thankfully, today, we were able to do a deal.
"We've known for a while that Robbie is a Celtic supporter and he's a great connection with the club and our supporters.
"Up until today, things were not looking very great at all. Things changed this afternoon and were able to put a deal in very quickly.
"His situation at Spurs was made, I think, pretty plain to him. He always knew we were very, very keen to get him."
Transitional period
Lawwell said there was no specific option to make the move permanent but did not rule out doing just that in the summer.
He added: "What we find is that players that come to Celtic very rarely want to leave."
The Hoops supremo also denied that the signing of Keane, on a salary yet to be revealed, was merely a ploy to appease disgruntled supporters.
"We're in a transitional period at the moment," he said.
"Tony probably wasn't blessed with the strongest squad we've had here when he arrived.
"We were always looking to bring in quality, our supporters do deserve the best and that's what we do at Celtic."
With the experienced frontman currently out of favour at White Hart Lane, Tony Mowbray hoped to convince Spurs that the 29-year-old would be better served taking in a spell at Parkhead.
Harry Redknapp, reluctant to stands in Keane's way, has agreed to such a request and is happy to let the Irishman stay in Scotland until the end of the season.
Celtic have verbally agreed a deal with the player, who is currently on his way to Glasgow to put the finishing touches to the switch.
It is understood that an agreement will be official announced by Celtic at 11pm.
Great connection
Scottish clubs have until midnight to complete their transfer business during the winter window.
"We've been pretty persistent in the last few windows in terms of keeping in touch with what he was wanting to do," Celtic chief executive Peter Lawwell told Sky Sports News.
"Thankfully, today, we were able to do a deal.
"We've known for a while that Robbie is a Celtic supporter and he's a great connection with the club and our supporters.
"Up until today, things were not looking very great at all. Things changed this afternoon and were able to put a deal in very quickly.
"His situation at Spurs was made, I think, pretty plain to him. He always knew we were very, very keen to get him."
Transitional period
Lawwell said there was no specific option to make the move permanent but did not rule out doing just that in the summer.
He added: "What we find is that players that come to Celtic very rarely want to leave."
The Hoops supremo also denied that the signing of Keane, on a salary yet to be revealed, was merely a ploy to appease disgruntled supporters.
"We're in a transitional period at the moment," he said.
"Tony probably wasn't blessed with the strongest squad we've had here when he arrived.
"We were always looking to bring in quality, our supporters do deserve the best and that's what we do at Celtic."
Robinho eyes long-term contract at former club Santos
Brazil striker Robinho is eyeing a long-term stay at Santos after receiving a rapturous welcome on his arrival on loan from Manchester City.
"My goal is to stay for a long-time," the 26-year-old said. "If the president wants to extend my contract to four years that would be great."
Robinho, who has re-joined his first club on a six-month loan, arrived by helicopter with Brazilian legend Pele.
Some 15,000 fans turned out at the Vila Belmiro stadium to greet the star duo.
Pele, who scored 474 goals for Santos, is also keen to see Robinho extend his loan period.
"I hope this passage is not merely for a few months but that it's permanent," said the club's biggest idol. "I hope Robinho recovers (his form) for Santos and the national team."
606: DEBATE
Should Robinho make his transfer permanent?
Robinho, who cost a British transfer record £32.4m when he arrived at City from Real Madrid in 2008, is hoping to secure his place in the Brazil side for the World Cup after falling out of form and favour at Eastlands.
"I have my objective of going to the World Cup and being at my best at the World Cup," said Robinho, after receiving his former number seven shirt from Santos president Luis Alvaro Ribeiro.
"I believe this can be my World Cup. In the national team competition is very big, there are a lot of good players and that had me worried."
Robinho, who scored 83 goals in 190 matches for Santos between 2002 and 2005, hopes to make his debut in the "Classico" against Sao Paulo in the Paulista championship on Sunday.
Beautiful Game 1 Winning Game 3
Although there is so much to be admired in Arsene Wenger's football philosophy, it is not too unfair surely to argue that in recent times he seems more consumed by the aesthetic than the result. As Alex Ferguson's tactical excellence blew a hole in Arsenal's tenuous title credentials at the Emirates, the thought occurred that while Wenger may well excel when it comes to creating beautiful football, Ferguson is still the daddy when it comes to the winning variety.
Sunday was a tactical masterclass from Ferguson. Clearly, United went into the match accepting that Arsenal would boss possession, and their tactical response to that likelihood was tellingly successful.
Employing a flexible 4-5-1 formation (becoming a rapier 4-3-3 when in possession) Ferguson flooded the midfield, looking to upset Arsenal's tight lines of communication. Lying deep, with his full-backs lying more defensively than usual, United played on the break with clinical precision.
In point of fact, United appeared to exploit every Arsenal weakness - from their lack of physical presence up front to the space behind their gung-ho full-backs. Jonny Evans and Wes Brown were largely untroubled by an Arsenal attack far too often channelled down the middle - swatting aside the sporadic, diminutive threats of the darting Samir Nasri, Tomas Rosicky and Andriy Arshavin.
And it was a case of two's company, but three's a crowd in central midfield where the workrate and diligence of Michael Carrick and Darren Fletcher in front of the back four smothered the Arsenal midfield's probing, allowing Paul Scholes to orchestrate United's breaks and pick holes in the increasingly slapdash Arsenal rearguard.
Park and Nani - hardly Old Trafford pin-up boys - showed their worth by playing significant roles in the performance. Park worked tirelessly to snuff out Bacary Sagna's surges, while Nani cruelly exposed the space behind the rusty gael Clichy. Meanwhile, Wayne Rooney lead the line superbly - all brains, brawn and searing, incisive pace. Arsenal simply had no answer.
It will be very interesting to see how Wenger's team react to such a chastening experience. In fairness to them, they responded very positively to a similar pasting at the hands of Chelsea late last year. They are not yet out of the title race, but such a body blow will have those scrabbling for Champions League places behind them hoping that a winded Arsenal may struggle to get back up off the canvas.
A bigger question hangs over the Emirates though - just how long can Arsenal and Wenger afford to focus so much effort on the beautifully intricate? If Wenger gets the balance wrong, the winning varieties of the game will continue to see the likes of United and Chelsea rule the Premier League roost.
Sunday was a tactical masterclass from Ferguson. Clearly, United went into the match accepting that Arsenal would boss possession, and their tactical response to that likelihood was tellingly successful.
Employing a flexible 4-5-1 formation (becoming a rapier 4-3-3 when in possession) Ferguson flooded the midfield, looking to upset Arsenal's tight lines of communication. Lying deep, with his full-backs lying more defensively than usual, United played on the break with clinical precision.
In point of fact, United appeared to exploit every Arsenal weakness - from their lack of physical presence up front to the space behind their gung-ho full-backs. Jonny Evans and Wes Brown were largely untroubled by an Arsenal attack far too often channelled down the middle - swatting aside the sporadic, diminutive threats of the darting Samir Nasri, Tomas Rosicky and Andriy Arshavin.
And it was a case of two's company, but three's a crowd in central midfield where the workrate and diligence of Michael Carrick and Darren Fletcher in front of the back four smothered the Arsenal midfield's probing, allowing Paul Scholes to orchestrate United's breaks and pick holes in the increasingly slapdash Arsenal rearguard.
Park and Nani - hardly Old Trafford pin-up boys - showed their worth by playing significant roles in the performance. Park worked tirelessly to snuff out Bacary Sagna's surges, while Nani cruelly exposed the space behind the rusty gael Clichy. Meanwhile, Wayne Rooney lead the line superbly - all brains, brawn and searing, incisive pace. Arsenal simply had no answer.
It will be very interesting to see how Wenger's team react to such a chastening experience. In fairness to them, they responded very positively to a similar pasting at the hands of Chelsea late last year. They are not yet out of the title race, but such a body blow will have those scrabbling for Champions League places behind them hoping that a winded Arsenal may struggle to get back up off the canvas.
A bigger question hangs over the Emirates though - just how long can Arsenal and Wenger afford to focus so much effort on the beautifully intricate? If Wenger gets the balance wrong, the winning varieties of the game will continue to see the likes of United and Chelsea rule the Premier League roost.
Seasiders draft in trio
Midfielder Steven Husband has signed from Hearts while forward duo Stephen Dobbie and DJ Campbell have arrived as loan signings at Bloomfield Road.
Husband, 19, arrives with a reputation as a hot prospect and has penned a two-and-a-half year deal with the club.
The former Cowdenbeath and Livingston youngster could be in Ian Holloway's squad to face West Brom on Wednesday, should he receive international clearance.
Fellow Scot Dobbie, 27, arrives on a six-month loan deal from Championship rivals Swansea after failing to flourish under manager Paulo Sousa at the Liberty Stadium.
Strike ratio
Striker DJ Campbell also arrives on loan in his second spell with the club having first joined the club this time last season in a similar deal.
The 28-year-old was a hit in his previous spell, scoring 9 goals in 20 Championship appearances, and Tangerines fans will be hoping for a similar strike ratio this time around.
Meanwhile, midfield youngster Barry Bannan has had his loan spell from Aston Villa extended by an extra month in a further boost to Holloway's squad.
Villa were reluctant to let the 20-year-old return to Bloomfield Road for longer amid a bad spell of injuries in Martin O'Neill's squad.
However, an agreement is in place for the young Scot to return to Blackpool once again after the latest stay, should the injury crisis at Villa Park improve.
Husband, 19, arrives with a reputation as a hot prospect and has penned a two-and-a-half year deal with the club.
The former Cowdenbeath and Livingston youngster could be in Ian Holloway's squad to face West Brom on Wednesday, should he receive international clearance.
Fellow Scot Dobbie, 27, arrives on a six-month loan deal from Championship rivals Swansea after failing to flourish under manager Paulo Sousa at the Liberty Stadium.
Strike ratio
Striker DJ Campbell also arrives on loan in his second spell with the club having first joined the club this time last season in a similar deal.
The 28-year-old was a hit in his previous spell, scoring 9 goals in 20 Championship appearances, and Tangerines fans will be hoping for a similar strike ratio this time around.
Meanwhile, midfield youngster Barry Bannan has had his loan spell from Aston Villa extended by an extra month in a further boost to Holloway's squad.
Villa were reluctant to let the 20-year-old return to Bloomfield Road for longer amid a bad spell of injuries in Martin O'Neill's squad.
However, an agreement is in place for the young Scot to return to Blackpool once again after the latest stay, should the injury crisis at Villa Park improve.
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