football news

Glazers are going nowhere - Gill

2010-03-11T18:59:00.000-08:00

The highly visual green and gold campaign aimed at highlighting opposition to the Glazer family received an unexpected publicity coup when David Beckham picked up one of the scarves and placed it around his neck before he made his way down the tunnel after Wednesday night's Champions League demolition of AC Milan.

Images were flashed round the world almost immediately, bringing instant recognition to the focal point of the protests, and a desire for more knowledge about the Red Knights group aiming to wrest control of the club.

The drip-feed of information from that section continued on Thursday when it was confirmed leading global investment bank Nomura will be advising the Red Knights about their prospective takeover bid.

Sources close to the Glazer family have continued to insist the club is not for sale, and they have no intention of off-loading, despite debts in excess of £700million.

It was a message reinforced by Gill as he was announcing a new five-year deal with Telekom Malaysia to become the 'Intergrated Telecommunications Partner' of the Old Trafford outfit.

"There are protests," said Gill. "Everyone has the right to protest and there was certainly a lot of green and gold there on Wednesday night, you cannot deny that.

"But this partnership demonstrates the strength of the club. It is a long-term partnership for five years.

"We will be around for the length of this five-year deal and many more in addition to that.

"We have a sound business model and Telekom Malaysia is partnering one of the best teams in world football. That will always be the case."

The sponsorship agreement is part of a new commercial strategy implemented by the Glazer family.

Instead of taking a global approach, United adopt a territorial stance, doing exclusive deals in specific areas to maximise income and make the most of an estimated 333 million supporters worldwide.

It was one of the facts the Glazers took into account when they launched their own takeover, which at the time even Gill felt involved too much debt.

Now though he feels the evidence points to a streamlined business model that, in the day-to-day running of the club, delivers huge profits.

"The owners thought we were doing very well on the commercial front but that there were other opportunities out there," he said.

"This is the insight they have brought in.

"It doesn't get much media coverage but the very fact they have come in and are able to do these deals benefits us. We can reinvest that money back into the team."

Gill's comments reinforce the view inside Old Trafford that the only reason the vast majority of the £80million received from Real Madrid for Cristiano Ronaldo remains unspent is due to Sir Alex Ferguson's reluctance to enter what he feels is an inflated transfer market.

The Manchester United Supporters Trust argue differently of course, although Ferguson is not about to spend big just to prove a point.

However, there could be a spin-off from United's latest deal.

"Manchester United created a lot of enthusiasm for football when they came on tour last summer," said Dato'Zamzamzairani Mohd Isa, chief executive of Telekom Malaysia.

"Over the course of this deal I would like to see some of the younger talents in Malaysia go to Manchester United to train and maybe the other way round.

"That will only help our country to progress."

For United it means a greater connection to the four million fans they are estimated to have in the country, whose passion was shown in the summer when 40,000 people attended a match in Kuala Lumpur at 48 hours notice following the cancellation of the Jakarta leg of their tour.

If The FA Do Nothing, What`s The Point...?

2010-03-11T18:53:00.000-08:00

On average, thousands of referees quit football every year at because of the abuse they receive from players and from the sidelines...

In response, The FA's Respect programme provides a series of tools for leagues, clubs, coaches, referees, players and parents from grassroots to elite football to ensure a safe, positive environment in which to enjoy the game.

When the FA launched their Respect campaign, any right-thinking person could not criticise its aims, or believe that it didn't have the best of intentions.

The only criticism sensible commentators could and did have, was the hope that this wasn't merely a well-intentioned talking shop. That it would prove to be more than some nice slogans and TV adverts that made us stroke our chins and make approving 'Hmmmmm' noises.

The FA has had a number of ideal chances to show they are serious, to make an example of someone, if you will. And the latest came with Steven Gerrard's V-sign shenanigans against Wigan on Monday night.

Excuses have been made for Gerrard, largely along the lines of 'He was showing his passion', and the suggestion that Gerrard was signalling he had only committed two fouls is perfectly plausible. Plausible, that is, if it wasn't accompanied with the words 'F**k off' from England's vice-captain, words that didn't take a great deal of lip-reading skill to decipher.

Indeed, Rafa Benitez's explanation that he was simply 'moving his fingers' is up there with Gerard Houllier's assertion that Robbie Fowler was mocking Rigobert Song in the laughably implausible stakes

However, anyone with an ounce of objectivity knew what Gerrard was doing.

Take anyone who has no interest in football to a match and the chances are they will be shocked at the behaviour that is considered acceptable in a ground, when it would not be tolerated in the real world.

It's a clich? but kids really do emulate their heroes, which is one of a thousand reasons why players and fans alike should be encouraged to behave like respectable human beings at matches.

So by implicitly condoning abuse of referees the FA are dooming their pledge to help football 'from grassroots to elite' before they've really started.

It was with depressing predictability that the FA hid behind Andre Marriner's dismissal of the gesture, but in trying not to undermine the authority of one official, they have undermined the aims of an entirely laudable campaign. A campaign for which they are currently running a series of TV adverts, that one imagines did not come cheap.

Here was a perfect opportunity - a high profile figure, caught red-handed, doing exactly what 'Respect' preaches against, but the FA have done nothing.

Managers are routinely 'asked to explain' comments about referees when emotions are high, so why has Gerrard not even been invited to the shiny new offices at Wembley for a chat?

The FA have form in not punishing an England international in a World Cup year (the dent in Neil Lennon's face is evidence enough for that), but they must separate the national side with their role as a disciplinary body.

One might wonder why/despair that a campaign such as 'Respect' exists, but if the FA continue to do nothing even when presented with the clearest of cases, it has no hope of making any impact.

Nick Miller

Benitez upbeat despite defeat

2010-03-11T18:50:00.000-08:00

Eden Hazard's goal five minutes from time when his free-kick sailed over the Liverpool defence and past a static Jose Reina inside the far post just when it seemed the visitors had weathered the storm.

But it could have been far worse had substitute Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's shot not hit the post and gone wide late on.

Benitez had called for a reaction from his players following Monday's disappointing defeat to Wigan and he felt they had done that.

"It was an improvement from the last game. The players' reaction has been very positive," said Benitez.

"I am disappointed with the result but really pleased with the effort of the players. They were fantastic today.

"It was against a good team on a difficult pitch. The reaction has been good.

"I think Lille started really well. We knew they had pace - you can watch videos but until you see them on the pitch you don't see the pace they have.

"It was difficult to stop them but little by little we had more control.

"When we had that control and were going forward we conceded the goal."

Despite conceding plenty of possession to their opponents Liverpool could easily have been 2-0 up at half-time after Ryan Babel and Fernando Torres were both denied by Lille keeper Mickael Landreau.

Benitez admitted that those missed opportunities cost them and could have put a completely different perspective on the match.

Pompey receive administration boost

2010-03-11T18:47:00.000-08:00

Pompey escaped being wound up after HMRC abandoned their claim that Pompey owner Balram Chainrai did not have the legal right to put the club into administration.

The cash-strapped south coast club were also encouraged by Pompey administrator Andrew Andronikou, who promised fans that no players will be moved on ahead of their FA Cup semi-final.

HMRC's decision to drop their case was just the boost Portsmouth had been looking for after slashing 85 Fratton Park jobs yesterday.

A spokesman for the club told Press Association Sport: "The Revenue has accepted the administration is valid."

But Portsmouth now face a nine-point deduction from the Barclays Premier League for entering into administration.

However, with their FA Cup semi-final against Fulham or Tottenham looming, Andronikou pledged no players will be leaving the club before the Wembley showdown.

Some members of manager Avram Grant's backroom staff were included in the staff cull, although none of them were high-profile.

Players cannot be made redundant due to protection afforded to them by the Professional Footballers' Association.

But the cancellation of loan agreements to save on wages is a consideration, with Pompey having six temporary signings on their books.

"Selling players is an option but first I need to broach the subject with the Premier League," said Andronikou. "I need their concession.

"As an alternative from looking at the Premier League advancing TV money, I suggested to them to possibly open the window to allow me to sell two players on a loan-back.

"It's one of those subjects we need to discuss further with the Premier League.

"However, I will not be looking to sell players before the semi-final and I will not be looking to cancel loan agreements before the semi-final.

"The minute I start tinkering with the football part it will be a big mistake. I can promise I will leave that until after the semi-final."

He added: "The players are very much protected by the PFA and unfortunately I am unable to make any cuts in the playing staff.

"They are very much the shop window of the club so instead I hope they can attract a buyer to this club."

Hamburg on top, Liege stun Greeks

2010-03-11T18:46:00.000-08:00

Goals from Joris Mathijsen and Ruud van Nistelrooy put the Bundesliga side two up before Jonathan Legear curled home a glorious free-kick in first-half stoppage time for the Belgians.

But David Jarolim guided a volley into the bottom corner from the edge of the area in the 67th minute to restore Hamburg's two-goal advantage as they ran out 3-1 winners.

Wolfsburg have the upper hand in their tie with Rubin Kazan after drawing the first leg in Russia 1-1.

Zvjezdan Misimovic equalised in the 67th minute to cancel out Cristian Noboa's opener just before the half-hour mark.

Atletico Madrid and Sporting Lisbon drew 0-0 in the Spanish capital.

The visitors played for most of the game with 10 men following the 31st-minute sending off of Leandro Grimi for two yellow cards.

However, that wasn't their only disciplinary problem as they were reduced to nine in the 89th minute when Tonel received a straight red.

Standard Liege enjoyed perhaps the most impressive win of the night with a 3-1 success against Panathinaikos, who beat Roma in the last round, in Greece.

Goals from Axel Witsel and Milan Jovanovic put the Belgians two up in the opening 16 minutes.

Loukas Vyntra pulled one back three minutes after the break, but Igor De Camargo added a third for the visitors in the 74th minute and Pana's miserable night was complete when Simao was sent off in the 90th minute.

Second-half substitute Hatem Ben Arfa headed a 90th-minute away goal to earn Marseille a 1-1 draw at Benfica.

Ben Arfa, who came off the bench in the 74th minute, cancelled out Maxi Pereira's 77th-minute opener.

Juan Mata equalised for Valencia two minutes after they had been reduced to 10 men to earn a 1-1 draw at home to Werder Bremen.

Torsten Frings put the Germans ahead with a 25th-minute penalty and the visitors received another boost when Ever Banega was sent off 10 minutes after the break.

But Mata levelled to give the La Liga side hope going

Juve ease past Cottagers

2010-03-11T18:45:00.000-08:00

Fulham were second best for most of the first half and found themselves 2-0 down thanks to goals from Nicola Legrottaglie and Jonathan Zebina.

A deflected goal from Dickson Etuhu gave the Cottagers an undeserved foothold in the game, but Trezeguet struck on the stroke of half-time to restore Juve's two-goal advantage.

Roy Hodgson's men tried to find another vital away goal in the second period, but the Italian side kept them at bay and will carry a significant advantage ahead of the second leg next week.

Hodgson handed Paul Konchesky his first start in almost two months in the place of cup-tied Nicky Shorey while Clint Dempsey, who picked up a serious knee injury in January, was a surprise inclusion on the substitutes' bench.

Alberto Zaccheroni made four changes to the Juventus side that beat Fiorentina last weekend, among them World Cup winners Fabio Cannavaro and Fabio Grosso.

Hodgson admitted before kick-off his side were playing one of the biggest matches in the club's history and they soon looked out of their depth against a fluent Juve side dripping with class.

The Old Lady, currently fifth in Serie A, began with a fluid passing game and Mark Schwarzer soon found his goal under attack when he reacted well to tip Trezeguet's goal-bound strike around his left hand post.

Liverpool Were The Week`s Big Winners

2010-03-11T18:44:00.000-08:00

And This Is How...
It seems to have slipped by un-noticed but perhaps the real winners last night were Liverpool? Before you dismiss this as crazy talk and wonder out loud 'how can they be winners when they haven't even kicked a ball?' allow me to explain.

With Real's latest 'project' going belly up last night (yes, they've still got the chance of domestic champions but Real Madrid have always been about winning the biggest prize in Europe) the writing could be on the wall for their coach. It's been a fairly open secret that they want to win it again and there's a chap toiling away in L4 who has proven pretty handy in the European Cup. He's also a Real Madrid old boy so a nice link there.

Rafa would get his dream move. The growing band is dis-contented Liverpool supporters would get their wish. The club wouldn't have to buy out Rafa's contract by sacking him if he doesn't make 4th spot, indeed they'd maybe get some compo from Real. And it seems as if the players would be happy also.

Everyone's a winner (apart from Pellegrino, of course)!?
Gregory Whitehead

Have We Under-Rated The Prem?
With Arse's crushing victory over one of Portugal's top clubs and our easy humping of Milan, you can also see Chavski progressing against Inter which will make it three English clubs in the CL quarters. So why does everyone keep saying the standard in the Premiership has dropped this season, there is no logic to this Media-led argument?

It seems to stem from the fact that the big three have accumulated more losses in the league than normal at this stage. But this doesn't mean the league has become rubbish, just that it's become more competitive. Isn't this what we've all been waiting for for ages?

And if Barce had produced the same results as us or Arse, everyone would be rubbing themselves. Yet when English clubs succeed the media line is to dismiss the opponents such as Milan as being flat (I'm looking at you F365). Correct me if I'm wrong but didn't they turn over Real Madrid on their patch earlier this year and are now closing in on a faltering Inter in Serie A? And don't Madrid lead the Liga from Barce, albeit on goal difference? Barce themselves struggled against Stuttgart while the rest of the CL line-up is not exactly fearsome e.g. Bordeaux, Olympiakos, CSKA Moscow etc.

Advantage Juve as Fulham falter

2010-03-11T18:25:00.001-08:00

The Cottagers struggled for possession in the first half and went 2-0 down within 30 minutes thanks to goals from Nicola Legrottaglie and Jonathan Zebina.

Dickson Etuhu pulled one back but Roy Hodgson's men always looked second best and David Trezeguet's sharp third goal emphasised the gulf in class between the two sides.

Hodgson handed Paul Konchesky his first start in almost two months in the place of cup-tied Nicky Shorey while Clint Dempsey, who picked up a serious knee injury in January, was a surprise inclusion on the substitutes' bench.

Alberto Zaccheroni made four changes to the Juventus side that beat Fiorentina last weekend, among them World Cup winners Fabio Cannavaro and Fabio Grosso.

While the game represented arguably the most important in Fulham's history, home enthusiasm for the match was not quite on the same level.

The 28,000 capacity Stadio Olimpico di Torino only contained 11,406 people with around 1,100 of them being Fulham fans.

Hodgson admitted before kick-off his side were playing one of the biggest matches in the club's history and they soon looked out of their depth against a fluent Juve side dripping with class.

The Old Lady, currently fifth in Serie A, began with a fluid passing game and Mark Schwarzer soon found his goal under attack when he reacted well to tip Trezeguet's goal-bound strike around his left hand post.

The Australian was beaten seconds later though as Legrottaglie found his way through a packed penalty box to power a close range header past the keeper from the resulting corner.

Fulham could have levelled in the 16th minute but Simon Davies miskicked from eight yards out after an impressive run from Damien Duff down the right.

The Bianconeri continued to threaten the Cottagers' box and the front three of Antonio Candreva, Diego and Trezeguet were proving to be too much of a handful for the Fulham midfield, who struggled to get possession.

Fulham top scorer Bobby Zamora looked frustrated and isolated up front but he won the free-kick that put the Cottagers momentarily back in the tie.

Davies whipped a free-kick on the edge of the box after a foul on the former Spurs hitman and the ball fell to Etuhu who slotted the ball past an off-balance Alex Manninger via a deflection.

Sensing an equaliser, the travelling fans urged on Hodgson's men and Brede Hangeland and Zoltan Gera were guilty of firing close-range efforts straight at Manninger.

Schwarzer then had to pull off a fantastic one-handed save but Juve went 3-1 ahead when Trezeguet fired past the Fulham stopper on the stroke of half-time after his original shot smacked against the woodwork.

The second half started at a slow pace and Juventus stroked the ball about the pitch with ease.

Aaron Hughes, who was captaining the side in the absence of Danny Murphy, pulled off a crucial challenge on Trezeguet inside the box at the start of the second half as Juve looked for a fourth.

Zamora chose to plough the flanks in an effort to create chances but the two dangerous crosses he produced were thwarted by Italy centre half Legrottaglie.

Hodgson's side lacked creativity and the Fulham boss looked for fresh impetus from Dempsey, who came on for Davies to make his first appearance since hobbling off against Blackburn in January.

Trezeguet was given a rapturous reception by the home fans when he was replaced by Vincenzo Iaquinta.

A deliberate handball brought a booking for Legrottaglie and gave Fulham a free-kick from 20 yards out but Duff's curling cross was expertly cut out by Cannavaro.

Former Liverpool player Mohamed Sissoko replaced the solid Christian Poulsen in midfield with 15 minutes left.

Zamora won a corner for the Cottagers with eight minutes left but Jonathan Greening's dangerous cross was cut out by Iaquinta.

The former Manchester United man's frustration was clear as he received a booking for a needless foul on Candreva in the Juve half.

Claudio Marchisio, who was a doubt with illness, jinked inside the Fulham box but his shot was blocked.

Diego almost made it four but his 25-yard stinging strike was tipped wide by Schwarzer.

Dempsey fired Fulham's last meaningful effort wide to ensure that the first meeting between the two sides ended in a 3-1 defeat, leaving Hodgson's men with much work to do in the second leg next Thursday.

Advantage Juve as Fulham falter

2010-03-11T18:15:00.000-08:00

Rafa`s Reds hit a Hazard in Lille

2010-03-11T18:13:00.000-08:00

Lille winger Eden Hazard's late goal inflicted a 1-0 defeat on Liverpool in the first leg of their Europa League last 16 clash in France. The visitors appeared to have survived a testing examination by Les Dogues only for Hazard, who had been a threat all night, to curl in an 85th-minute free-kick.

Despite being territorially dominated Liverpool had the best two chances with Ryan Babel shooting too close to Mickael Landreau and Fernando Torres' header being brilliantly saved by the goalkeeper in the first half.

However, the scoreline was no real surprise as The Mastiffs, as Lille are known, had scored in 20 of their previous 21 games at the Lille Metropole.

Their impressive record has seen them lose just once at home in Ligue 1 since the opening day of the season on August 9, with only one defeat in 17 home European fixtures.

For Liverpool - unbeaten in France since a 1-0 Champions League defeat to Monaco in November 2004 - it was the worst possible result coming so soon on the back of a woeful performance at Wigan on Monday.

Their difficult task was outlined to them in the first minute as Lille came out in no mood to admire their more illustrious opponents as Yohan Cabaye forced Jose Reina into a save within 38 seconds.

One of the most intriguing battles was between winger Hazard and Emiliano Insua, who was destroyed on a regular basis by Wigan's Charles N'Zogbia.

The 19-year-old Belgian struck an early blow by skipping past his opponent and drilling a cross through the six-yard area but no team-mate was close enough to take advantage.

Lille were more Arsenal than Wigan in their approach - despite their heavily-sanded patchy pitch - and passed the ball around with ease to often leave their opponents chasing shadows.

However, for all their possession they looked like they were missing top scorer Gervinho, the Ivorian who was sidelined by injury.

Bizarrely, Liverpool had the best two chances of the first half.

Babel should have given the visitors the lead in the 26th minute after a neat exchange with Torres but shot too close to Mickael Landreau and the goalkeeper deflected the effort with his legs.

Hazard was proving Lille's best outlet and his cross saw Pierre-Alain Frau deflect a shot over after being pressured by Jamie Carragher.

Gerrard responded with a dipping 35-yard strike just over Landreau's crossbar before, in the 41st minute, Landreau produced a brilliant low save to repel Torres' close-range header from Johnson's deep cross.

Hazard had the ball in the net soon after half-time but was flagged offside.

Liverpool at least began the second half better than they had the first and six minutes after the restart Lucas volleyed Torres' headed flick-on wide.

Lille, by contrast, had lost some of their attacking verve as they were drawn into a more attritional contest unsuited to their style.

On the hour Babel had a fierce shot parried away by Landreau, before Insua was booked for a foul on Hazard as he threatened to break away.

Five minutes later Reina allowed a long-range shot from Frau slip through his fingers but fortunately for the Liverpool goalkeeper it ballooned behind for a corner.

Torres was then booked for his persistent complaints to referee Claus Bo Larsen.

Cabaye drilled a dipping strike inches over Reina's crossbar before he was replaced by Stephane Dumont, with Albert Riera coming on for Babel with 17 minutes remaining.

Hazard went down in the area under Carragher's challenge with seven minutes to go but Larsen waved away protests.

However, a minute later the winger made sure when he curled in a free-kick which missed everyone in front of Reina, who could only watch as the ball crept into the far corner.

And it could have been far worse had substitute Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's shot not hit the post and gone wide.

Drogba wins African crown

2010-03-11T18:08:00.000-08:00

The Ivory Coast striker was handed his award in a ceremony in Accra, as he was voted the continent's top player for 2009.

He held off competition from club team-mate Michael Essien, and also Inter Milan's Cameroon star Samuel Eto'o.

It is the second time in his career the 32-year-old has won the honour, with the previous success coming in 2006.

He helped his country through a convincing World Cup qualifying campaign in 2009, during which he netted five goals as the Ivorians finished unbeaten. Drogba also scored for Chelsea as they won the FA Cup final.

Drogba, who has hit 25 goals this season, is also thought to be a leading candidate for both the Footballer of the Year and PFA Player of the Year awards in England this year.

None of the three candidates travelled to Ghana's capital for the annual Confederation of African Football (CAF) awards, where World Cup-bound Algeria were named Team of the Year.

10 years make an epic fantasy digital living in Spain after raul record

2010-03-04T17:58:00.000-08:00

In Spain and France in the warm-up, 28, the Spanish national team captain casillas tied him in real Madrid team-mate raul representing Spain play record: 102.

A "ferrari" overtook another "ferrari - this is Spanish international sports director on casillas jeroboam tied raul appearance record after said. In 2003, when raul represents a record breaking a Spanish again after jeroboam and took it to raul, "the nickname" ferrari. On Wednesday night, in Paris, France's st denis stadium, casillas first 102, representing Spain tied with the former captain raul's appearance record. Coincidentally, 10 years ago, on June 3, 2000, casillas first in this field is the galicians (Spanish game 1-1 draw with Sweden).

On international debut in two weeks ago, casillas represent real Madrid in the champions league final against valencia in the champions. At that time, was filled with joy and exciting casillas was a presentiment that Spain coach wonderfully he will probably in the euro 2000. "YiKeEr (casillas) soon in Spain, it could be because morientes, raul and my existence, because we are also real Madrid team-mate," he said, "but amazingly, he and raul, muir continuously break records as goalkeeper. 28, can have 102 caps for his country, and this is the record of the unusual."

"Give him a big wonderfully. He saw. He put the potential casillas iker casillas to euro, have no choice but to Tony. After he was observed, casillas with my training. Now the goalkeeper this sacrifice, but YiKeEr exception," said the former Spanish keeper Santiago canizares also. "He was very young, just completed a wonderful season, also help real Madrid won the champions league trophy. He trained very seriously, but not to attract attention. Then, but the captain was jeroboam began and raul into the locker room pep guardiola powerful groups," he recalled. Tennis star nadal is said: "casillas speed and flexibility astonished me."

At the first team in Spain in his iker casillas during training and HeLaDe inseparable, he has time to watch TV or playing games, he likes others called him "Marco Polo Marco (main)". Nowadays, the young man has replaced raul became captain of Spain. "I almost can't remember his first entered the Spanish team, but when he was elected the Spanish team at all levels, so we naturally will accept him," Spanish physiotherapist gutierrez (MiguelGutierrez) recalls. "As a captain, he has good affinity to own request. He very tall, and he and raul, not the manic," gutierrez said.

Raul on September 6, 2006 final representing Spain play. Spain in Belfast, 2-3 loss to the Northern Ireland. Since the defeat, then Spain coach luis aragones' decision by raul. According to media reports, the decision is actually in the 2006 World Cup has been simmering during the shape. At that time, his team-mate raul's innuendo damage the atmosphere in the dressing room. This, Santiago canizares retorted "in England, the atmosphere in the dressing room always good."

In Spain after winning European champions, someone will start around two captain. "Captain responsibilities have changed, compared with before, now the captain of the major responsibility in more. The captain raul, captain of the media should be responsible. Although captain of the team not only one, but almost all things in the first captain, from bonus question to personal problems are so. Those little contact with the people raul do so because they themselves, and not because they now alienated raul. Don't take so much responsibility captain, so can play a good game, basically," said canizares.

"In Spanish, raul experienced a renewal. But this is all very naturally occurs," Spanish football training base of an officer said. "As a captain, casillas very good communication for many things. He is very clear, because he liked to ask. Everyone has their own behaviour and Harvey. Iker casillas has a special relationship, because both of them have been teenagers national team. They met with carles puyol or villa - both are the national team heavyweights - together with decision. As the captain, raul is more serious, casillas he used to hide in the heart, the pressure from his eyes can see. But is much more relaxed iker casillas, of course, this is not to say that his responsibility than raul. From mannered, they are both good," the officer said.

Responsible for Spain in the trip to England's iker casillas raul and process is familiar. He said: "I still remember 1996 raul in the first hand clement against Czech appearances of Spanish representatives. He was very active, always asked many questions. After that, you would have noticed his step by step in the team is on the rise, because the meeting and decision-making process, you can see him. I would like to say that I have to raul and casillas without any complaints. In the team, raul and travel are very concerned about the journey iker casillas, but they all aspects of our trust is, after all, we work together for a long time."

Currently Spain goalkeeper amelia women football team coach (Amieiro Evans is iker casillas) when I started out at real Madrid coach. He said: "casillas talked technically, with the increasing of experience, he's more stronger. Just 17 years old, he is a piece of diamond to carve. Now he has matured. On the pitch, as captain, he is also the good example to others rather than casillas career. The point is wear the captain's armband in 2002, rather than the champions league final, he was on the bench to make good saves a lot."

"2002 World Cup in Japan, I hurt himself during the training, casillas therefore become England goalkeeper. I have to accept this, because in the final of the champions league, casillas confidence after canizares," said. "I knew at real Madrid is a guy. I iker casillas saw he was once in the party, I noticed that he has a lot of, clear oneself as captain obligations. He and raul, have one thing in common: they handle problems are very serious attitude," real Madrid legend SangJi said

David Beckham has been add new tattoos angel aerating instrument chart printed on his left arm

2010-03-04T17:48:00.000-08:00

For now, the tattoo of becks seems to have been a habitual behavior, although it put forward many times, Victoria, she didn't want her husband came, but David remained unmoved tattoos, in January after just tattoo was recently found, adding new works.

In the weekend and Atlanta games left, Beckham was found on an angel, because in the winter games, players wear long sleeve, and none so someone patted down clearly on the left of the pattern, Beckham, but many people in his post-match describes the contents: angels into a musical instrument.

The British media and fans in England are analyzed, and the design of the implied that a lot of people think angel musical instrument design is to bless his grandfather Joseph died in heaven may rest.

In January, Beckham was AC milan in the stadium after juve road victory over the shirt off when he was revealed new tattoos. It is an artist works Of Matthew Brooks has The name is "Man Of Sorrows. In The west Of The Man Jesus nicknames Sorrows, namely "The son Of sorrow. This work according to the Brooks canvas, the chief performance is the crucifixion of Christ before wearing, and thorns were sitting on the cross of play. As the main body, the passion Jesus largely commemorates the grandpa died recently, David Beckham's grandfather was a Jew, and a devout christians, Jesus as a tattoo theme passion so we can understand.

Because of this new tattoos, Beckham has exceeded the tattoo, including 18 names of his three sons, His wife Victoria's name, And Victoria common grain roma digital VIII. V.M MVI on their behalf (March 8, 2006, at a ceremony in secret promise), And some religious tattoos and design, such as the guardian angel and cross back.

AC milan signed iron guard against the imagination than appearance sign kaka ii Chelsea

2010-03-04T17:46:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, AC milan in the first team and a three-line team, a young internal warm-up and unfamiliar faces in the first-team squad, he is AC milan just from Brazil gremio signing of freedom, the dissatisfaction with essien nova 17, 1 meter height, and 90 big he formed the 22-year-old defender partner, giuseppe favalli played abnormal sound, beyond his imagination for the team, his opponent 6-0 0 closure. Previously, AC milan to sign the name is known as "the second tiago silva has" young defender spent a lot of trouble, now it is indeed value-for-money.

Brokers lung gini said: "AC milan can always transfer market in Brazil prophet." Seems indeed, from Brazil domestic, said after the eliasson, AC milan's next target will be 16 - the midfielder Lucas Sao Paulo.

Like pato, leather and carrizo is recognized, the Brazilian football prodigies its image jun lang, known as the "kaka ii", but he also with similar characteristics of kaka, he has strong ability of force from the road, shooting, echoes header, capped, scoring methods, this is diversiform, reportedly following tiago silva has and the former AC milan star after serginho to his previous club to commend another star.

According to the Brazilian football rules, full of 16 players can sign the contract with the club, but formal contract shall not exceed 3 years in the skin, and assist at the age of 14, Sao Paulo, and he HuiYanShiZhu club signed a from 2010 to 2013 contract, the contract should be supposed earlier this year will be validated, but the trouble. At the end of last year, many big clubs such as AC milan and Chelsea began to contact with the skin, while his parents want to sign the agreement was torn beforehand, the skin and assist to Europe, then both the dispute occurs, achieves the bee, and skin and carrizo is undoubtedly the victim, arguing, as a punishment has frozen the luminous Sao Paulo, now play, and is likely to assist a certain amount of cost anywhere, and AC milan hope by leonardo dicaprio and serginho relationship, plus the young man than Chelsea, according to reports from Brazil, the inside of the master plan to AC milan.

England's World Cup squad remained remember predict becks will be selected Owen: 0

2010-03-04T17:43:00.000-08:00

In England and Egypt seen after the game, as Britain's chief football journalist, oliver kiah's mind is the England squad for the 23, he and his colleagues this Smith qanda way, a detailed explanation of the reasons of 23 people.
The first question is: who is the biggest beneficiaries of victory yesterday evening? Kiah answered: "Peter crouch and shaun can be regarded as the biggest beneficiaries of victory at night time. In fact, Peter crouch appearances for England, he can score, look, I think he has determined on the list with his position. But the problem is he who is starting with Emile heskey Emile heskey goals, there may be as big, but Peter crouch threat will make the whole team Emile heskey's move is more outstanding, he can take other teammates easily into the game. But Peter crouch appearance, will become the focus of attack, will weaken the other players feel the movement. So I think in the plan B, Peter crouch is the striker, rather than A plan."
Kathleen go about wright-phillips, he said: "it's not just scoring goals, he is in the way of running before defence, and the ability to pass, attracted me to capello. The importance of shaun wright-phillips, it may be in theo walcott, but I'm not sure under this, because you have to assume capello kill David Beckham, also want to play right wing starts, so Aaron lennon, each team will have a game between direct competition, after last night after the game, shaun wright-phillips and walcott into the list of the probability of 50%."
The second problem is: "green kept the entire 90 minutes, it shows that fabio capello will be his World Cup goalkeeper?" Kiah answered: "last August capello said he knew who was goalkeeper, we all know that what he said is James, but the problem is he at Portsmouth this season, is always difficult. The green injury that kept the game, the coach fabio capello must not consider as a door to hart, but in green and James between a trade-off. I like green, but he isn't a world-class keeper, if a man such as zinedine zidane, you never think he one-on-one can save the ball green. So a healthy body, and status of James, at least, is the recovery of my first choice."
According to the World Cup squad Settings, three goalkeepers are the most appropriate setting, kay spoke three choices in said: "I think is the hart. He also may consider foster, although look choose a club's third-choice keeper, as England's third goalkeeper is really some make."
This go ask defender configuration, Kathleen and spoke first, he said: "and played 90 minutes, but to be fair, he played well, but it is the integration of the back four and have relations, so don't blame him. He is in the game, if he can improve the left-back as the World Cup, I am glad 2. But the problem is not with fabio capello will second left-back. Because he can depend on location changeful milner and lescott, which can save a right-back to midfield and attack."
Talking to another person, kay said: "although brown, but he could have weaknesses in one of the biggest clubs in the world in playing right-back so many years, this shows that he is not used to playing in the middle. Brown, he will also can trust in the team EPuSen. In addition, he will also get tickets is the biggest advantage. Though he hardly hurt and Rio Ferdinand/terry and considerable gap than in the centre-half. Another option is lescott, if he can play in Manchester, perhaps he also can become the first team, but now he's starting position in EPuSen under".
This asked, "who will stand in midfield line?" Kiah answered: "gerrard and frank lampard and Michael carrick, Barry affirmation finalists will also go to the game, because he can bring a different things, and another fabio capello is very like professional and diversity are very prominent milner. If the World Cup, I think tomorrow -- into the list, David Beckham has the right of first start, the most suitable or lennon. Shaun wright-phillips and walcott front has said."
In the few person status as, kay said: "capello specially to see Joe cole RACES, Joe play is good, but if he can have access to Chelsea start, if have good play, or may have access to large list, only then downing maybe even better than Joe. Owen hargreaves has no long-term injury, because despite parker at west ham's performance is very good, but the choice list for him it is a kind of hurt."
Finally the configuration options. Kiah said: "Wayne rooney and Peter crouch, jermain Defoe and Emile heskey almost certainly have four position. The striker fabio capello, depending on whether his stay a position to strike. Now I think Carlton cole would be lucky, because capello like a big ahead. Agbonlahor and darren bent in sprint, may also shouldn't ignore Owen's existence, if he is from now on until the end of the season, can give fabio capello, from a practical perspective, may have his position."
Finally is oliver kiah's prediction.
Goalkeeper: green, James hart (foster),
Guard: glen Johnson, Rio Ferdinand, EPuSen, John terry, lescott, ASHLEY cole, brown
Midfielder frank lampard, Steven gerrard, Barry, and Michael carrick, Beckham, lennon, James milner
Striker Wayne rooney, Emile heskey, Peter crouch, jermain Defoe
Wild riders (choose two) : byrne, warnock, walcott, shaun wright-phillips, Carlton cole, agbonlahor, Joe cole

Premier League preview

2010-02-06T00:23:00.000-08:00

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.

NASRI: D-DAY FOR ARSENAL TITLE BID

2010-02-06T00:19:00.000-08:00

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

2010-02-06T00:10:00.000-08:00

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

2010-02-06T00:07:00.000-08:00

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/

Newcastle 5 - 1 Cardiff

2010-02-06T00:03:00.000-08:00

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

2010-02-06T00:02:00.000-08:00

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.

Everse takes Heerenveen helm

2010-02-05T23:50:00.000-08:00

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.

Rooney and Nani please boss

2010-02-05T23:40:00.000-08:00

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

2010-02-05T23:31:00.000-08:00

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/

CAPELLO STRIPS TERRY OF CAPTAINCY

2010-02-05T23:18:00.000-08:00

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.

GUNNERS NOT FAR AWAY - ALMUNIA

2010-02-03T19:26:00.000-08:00

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

2010-02-03T19:24:00.000-08:00

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/

Di Matteo expected tough test

2010-02-03T19:16:00.000-08:00

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

2010-02-03T19:09:00.000-08:00

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

2010-02-03T19:00:00.000-08:00

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

2010-02-03T18:57:00.000-08:00

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

2010-02-03T18:54:00.002-08:00

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

2010-02-03T18:54:00.001-08:00

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."

Boss proud of Leeds effort

2010-02-03T18:46:00.001-08:00

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

2010-02-03T18:42:00.000-08:00

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.

Aberdeen 0 - 1 Falkirk

2010-02-02T18:54:00.000-08:00

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

2010-02-02T18:52:00.000-08:00

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.

McCarthy - We were second best

2010-02-02T18:48:00.000-08:00

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'

2010-02-02T18:40:00.000-08:00

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.

Sir Alex Ferguson wary of David Beckham 'media circus'

2010-02-02T18:38:00.000-08:00

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

2010-02-02T18:32:00.000-08:00

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.

Maguire strike sinks Hoops

2010-02-02T18:31:00.000-08:00

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

2010-02-02T18:26:00.000-08:00

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

2010-02-02T18:25:00.000-08:00

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.

Hull 1 - 1 Chelsea

2010-02-02T18:20:00.000-08:00

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.

Keane agrees Celtic move

2010-02-01T23:31:00.001-08:00

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."

Robinho eyes long-term contract at former club Santos

2010-02-01T23:29:00.000-08:00

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

2010-02-01T23:28:00.000-08:00

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.

Seasiders draft in trio

2010-02-01T23:26:00.000-08:00

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.

Transfers - February 2010

2010-02-01T19:30:00.001-08:00

The January 2010 transfer window is open and the period for buying and selling has been extended to Monday, 1 February (1700 GMT in England, midnight in Scotland) because 31 January fell on a Sunday.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1 February

Gareth Ainsworth [QPR - Wycombe] Free
John Akinde [Bristol City - Brentford] Loan
Troy Archibald-Henville [Tottenham - Exeter] Undisclosed
Asmir Begovic [Portsmouth - Stoke] £3.25m
Marcus Bent [Birmingham - QPR] Loan
Leon Best [Coventry - Newcastle] Undisclosed
Danny Boshell [Grimsby - Chesterfield] Free
Edson Braafheid [Bayern Munich - Celtic] Loan
Wayne Brown [Fulham - Bristol Rovers] Loan
Alex Bruce [Ipswich - Leicester] Loan
Christopher Buchtmann [Liverpool - Fulham] Undisclosed
Richie Byrne [unattached - Darlington]
DJ Campbell [Leicester - Blackpool] Loan
Graham Carey [Celtic - St Mirren] Loan
Robbie Clark [Doncaster - Brigg] Loan
Jack Cork [Chelsea - Burnley] Loan
Daniel Cousin [Hull - Larissa] Loan
Paul Coutts [Peterborough - Preston] Undisclosed
Tom Denton [Huddersfield - Wakefield] Loan
Stephen Dobbie [Swansea - Blackpool] Loan
Daryl Duffy [Bristol Rovers - Carlisle] Loan
Andy Ferrell [York - Gateshead] Undisclosed
Darryl Flahavan [Crystal Palace - Oldham] Loan
Geremi [Newcastle - Ankaragucu] Undisclosed
Marc Goodfellow [Burton - Kidderminster] Loan
Peter Halmosi [Hull - Szombathely Haladas] Loan
Ed Harris [QPR - Hayes & Yeading] Loan
David Healy [Sunderland - Ipswich] Loan
Paul Heckingbottom [Mansfield - Gateshead] Loan
Stephen Henderson [Bristol City - Aldershot] Loan
Luke Holden [Charlton - Wrexham] Loan

Paul Huntington [Leeds - Stockport] Free
Stephen Husband [Hearts - Blackpool] Undisclosed
Alan Hutton [Tottenham - Sunderland] Loan
Ilan [St Etienne - West Ham] Loan
Adam Johnson [Middlesbrough - Manchester City] Undisclosed
Damien Johnson [Birmingham - Plymouth] Free
Toni Kallio [Fulham - Sheffield United] Loan
Diomansy Kamara [Fulham - Celtic] Loan
Robbie Keane [Tottenham - Celtic] Loan
Rob Kiernan [Watford - Kilmarnock] Loan

Oliver Lancashire [Southampton - Grimsby] Loan
Steven Lennon [Rangers - Lincoln City] Loan
Jonathan Lund [Burnley - Rotherham] Loan
Steven MacLean [Plymouth - Aberdeen] Loan
Ben Marshall [Stoke - Carlisle] Loan
Shelton Martis [West Brom - Doncaster] Undisclosed
Clark Masters [Aldershot - Hayes & Yeading] Free
Benni McCarthy [Blackburn - West Ham] Undisclosed
Damien McCrory [Plymouth - Dagenham & Redbridge] Undisclosed
Scott McDonald [Celtic - Middlesbrough] Undisclosed
Kevin McLeod [Brighton - Wycombe] Free
Mido [Middlesbrough - West Ham] Loan
Lee Miller [Aberdeen - Middlesbrough] Undisclosed
Marcelo Moreno [Shakhtar Donetsk - Wigan] Loan
Victor Moses [Crystal Palace - Wigan] Undisclosed
Daryl Murphy [Sunderland - Ipswich] Loan
Antonio Murray [unattached - Cambridge Utd]
Kyle Naughton [Tottenham - Middlesbrough] Loan
Lewis Nightingale [Huddersfield - Wakefield] Loan
Nyron Nosworthy [Sunderland - Sheffield United]
David Nugent [Portsmouth - Burnley] Loan
Stefano Okaka [Roma - Fulham] Loan
Jim Paterson [Plymouth - Aberdeen] Loan

Alessandro Pellicori [QPR - AC Mantova] Loan
Jason Price [Millwall - Oldham] Loan
Aleksander Prijovic [Derby - FC Sion] Free
Tamas Priskin [Ipswich - QPR] Loan
David Prutton [Leeds - Colchester] Free
Ryan Pryce [unattached - Salisbury]
Michael Raynes [Stockport - Scunthorpe] Undisclosed
Jay Rodriguez [Burnley - Barnsley] Loan
Lathaniel Rowe-Turner [Leicester - Torquay] Undisclosed
Adam Rundle [Rochdale - Chesterfield] Free
Scott Severin [Watford - Kilmarnock] Loan

Paul Slane [Motherwell - Celtic] Undisclosed
Nicky Shorey [Aston Villa - Fulham] Loan
Andwele Slory [Feyenoord - West Brom] Free
Akpo Sodje [Sheffield Wednesday - Charlton] Loan
Marvin Sordell [Watford - Tranmere] Loan
Andrejs Stolcers [Bath City - Hayes & Yeading] Free
Michael Tonge [Stoke - Derby] Loan
Keith Treacy [Blackburn - Preston] Undisclosed
Javan Vidal [Manchester City - Derby] Loan
James Walker [Southend - Gillingham] Free
Peter Winn [Scunthorpe - Gateshead] Loan

Ilan adds to Zola's options

2010-02-01T19:27:00.000-08:00

The Hammers had been strongly linked with a move for the South American and he was at Upton Park on Monday for talks.
The 29-year-old, who has won three caps for his country, struck an accord with West Ham and is now set to spend the remainder of the 2009/10 campaign with the Premier League outfit.

There is an option available to both parties for a permanent two-year deal to be put in place at the end of the season.

He will move to East London as a free agent, after six years spent in France with St Etienne and Sochaux.

Ilan still had six months left to run on his contract at Stade Geoffrey-Guichard, but has been released from that agreement.

Bright start
He becomes Gianfranco Zola's third attacking signing on a busy day of transfer activity, with Benni McCarthy and Mido having also agreed to join the Hammers.

"I am extremely happy to be here and I hope to play as soon as possible. I look forward to the challenge," Ilan told Sky Sports News.

"It was an easy decision to come here. It is one of the biggest leagues in the world.

"My aim is to the best I can and score goals. I want to start with a bang.

"I am delighted to be here and I am looking forward to enjoying a long-term relationship with West Ham."

Hey Gooners: Get Some Perspective

2010-02-01T19:26:00.000-08:00

1) Your team sits 3rd in the league, 7 points above the team below them, 4 points behind Man Utd in 2nd, and one further point off top spot. You have an established squad, and great manager, who has won everything domestically, going unbeaten for one whole season, and you've got a midfielder who is possible one of the top 5 in the world. You've just lost to the current Champions, who seem to be on something of a run. You have money to spend on players, but don't, and your injury list is longer than Vieira's schlong...

2) Your team sits bottom of the league, 5 points of the team above you, and 6 points from safety. Your club doesn't seem to have a pot to p*ss in, and rather than not having money to spend on players, instead you can't even afford to pay their wages on time. All your decent players seem to want away to a club that will pay them, and the club is taking offers on anyone and anything that moves.

3) Your team has just gone into administration. dropping you from the playoff positions to get you back to the Premiership, to 4 points off the drop zone. You're selling your best players to try and stay afloat. You don't own your own ground, and the future is looking very bleak...

Gooners, get some perspective. Yes, your team has shortcomings. Yes, your manager is crazily stubborn. Yes, you just got humiliated by Man Utd at home. Yes, you'll probably lose to Chelsea this weekend. BUT - Yes, you'll be in the Champions League next season. Yes, you're still in it this season. Yes, you are still in the running for the title.

Anyone saying 'sack Wenger' needs their head examined. Stop over-reacting.
Tony B (it could be worse - you could support Liverpool!) THFC

Arsenal: Not That Bad
Am I the only person who doesn't think Arsenal were that bad on Sunday?

I mean, yes, United were stronger, more powerful, faster and more clinical. And yes they deserved to beat us. But we also created a host of good chances ourselves, and taking an early one of those could have led to a very different outcome.

I'd like to call on my fellow gooners to maintain a bit of perspective here. We were not the best team around before this defeat, nor are we the worst team after it. We are still a very good side that is not far short of title quality. What we lack, as ever, is a storming centre-forward and a top quality keeper.
Neil (very hungover from drowning my sorrows all day yesterday), exiled Londoner in New York

Wenger Is The Man To Blame
Almunia, Clichy, Denilson, Nasri, Roosicky, everybody were outclassed by two players, Nani and Rooney. Arsenal played their same stuff but without scoring. Wenger does not understand that they cannot play the same football against teams like City, Man United and Chelsea. You can't throw everybody out there as usual without any change in strategy. Defeats against City and Chelsea have not served anything. So please Mr Wenger, at the end of the season don't blame injuries, or fatigue.

Man United defeated City and four days later a team like Arsenal in it's own stadium. They are in the final of the Carling cup, one point behind Chelsea in the League and in the Champions League. Arsenal is out of the Carling Cup, out of the FA cup, almost out of the league and an extreme outsider for the Champions League.

So another trophyless season? Who to blame? Remember the days, Arsenal, you win the League and you win the FA Cup. Did you play different teams? Finally you sell Henry. Did you get someone to replace Thierry Henry, best player and top scorer so many times. The answer is a big NO.
Mario Berney

But Who Instead?
One question to all the 'Wenger must go' mailboxers: who would you replace him with?

Any ideas? No, thought not. Now shut up and support your team or sod off to Stamford Bridge.
David (getting really tired of these twats every time we lose) Hants Gooner

'Take A Gamble Man'
Good letter from John Matrix about Wenger.

Personally I am very frustrated by the lack of activity during the transfer window (again!) - I know there isn't much on offer at the moment - even less which represents good value for Wenger - but surely there is sense in getting someone, anyone, to help plug the gap up front. A bit of experience on a 12 month contract will hardly bankrupt the club, and will give us at least a viable option at the top. Arshavin is great but he's not a striker. I'm certain will lose that man at the end of this season if he continues to be forced to play out of position.

I'm not saying abandon your principles Wenger, but for God's sake, take a gamble man! If it works then you're a genius - if it doesn't, well at least you can say you tried.
Shane, London
P.S. is John Matrix actually infact the legendary retired US Army Colonel who single-handedly destroys an entire private army in order to free his daughter in Commando? And if so, can he be tempted out of retirement for just one more job?

Reasons To Be Cheerful
While it is difficult and possibly clutching at straws, after much reflection and finally getting over last night's performance there are some positives

- We surely can't play as naively as we did yesterday, if it represents a low point in our defensive prowess hopefully the gaffer ran the riot act and we can finally get our act together. Yesterday was as much to do with a lack of team defensive discipline as it was individual error.

- Better to play badly in the League and have another 14 games to make it up than have a horror story in the Champions league which is our only other hope of silverware.

- The Chelsea game offers quick retribution for players to prove themselves at the top level, they should be chomping at the bit. Wenger spoke of a "different animal", I want to see wounded tigers next week.

- We won at Chelsea last season and will have some players back/fitter such as Diaby and Bendtner who will give us added physical presence

- Win at Chelsea and the gap is 5 points assuming they beat Hull which I have no doubt about. Hardly down and out, although as Wenger said we need something special.....

- Chelsea still have Liverpool, Everton, Man Utd Tottenham away and Man City and Villa at home. Man Utd too have tough fixtures remaining such as trips to Goodison, Villa Park and The Stadium of Light. Nothing is won or lost in January and the May is a long way off still. There is also the small matter of Manure vs Chelski to come.

- In comparison we have a less daunting run in, on paper only Man City Stoke and Birmingham could prove tricky.

- Light a candle and pray that RVP is fit in March, he is back in training

- We are at Birmingham the same weekend Chelsea entertain a tough Villa side and Man Utd go to a Bolton side with a certain Jack Wilshere. I smell an Eduardo brace to banish the memories of 2008 and bring us back into the title race at the very stage where we fell badly 2 seasons ago. Sometimes sport writes such scripts....

- If Nani can suddenly play well maybe there is hope for Clichy and Denilson.

- If we win the title it will be one of the greatest accomplishments in our history. Oh and its 21 years since 1989, Mickie Thomas and all that....Read Perry Groves' book for an account of how the impossible is possible

Feel better yet?
Pradeep Kachhala

ROBBIE KEANE AGREES CELTIC DEAL

2010-02-01T19:23:00.000-08:00

Tottenham Hotspur striker Robbie Keane has agreed to join SPL giants Celtic on loan.

The 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 stand 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 undergo a medical and put the finishing touches to the switch.

It is understood that an agreement will be officially announced by Celtic at 11pm.

Scottish clubs have until midnight to complete their transfer business during the winter window.

Robbie Keane Factfile

1980: Born Robert David Keane in Dublin on July 8.

1994: Joins Wolves, managed by former England manager Graham Taylor, despite interest from top-flight clubs.

1997: Signs professional contract for Wolves in July.

1998: Makes international debut for the Republic of Ireland as a substitute against Czech Republic.

1999: August - Joins Coventry for £6million to become the most expensive teenager in the Premier League and scores twice on his debut as Derby are beaten at Highfield Road.

2000: July - Joins Inter Milan for £13million on five-year deal.

December - Leeds secure Keane on loan until the end of the season, with a view to a permanent £12million switch in the summer.

2001: May - Completes permanent move to Leeds.

2002: July 2 - Leeds agree a fee with Sunderland for the player but he decides against the move.

August - Joins Tottenham for £7million.

2004: October 13 - Becomes Republic's all-time record goalscorer with first-half double in 2-0 win over Faroe Islands in World Cup qualifier at Lansdowne Road, surpassing Niall Quinn's total of 21 and moving onto 23.

2007: May - Signs new five-year contract with Spurs.

December - Becomes only the 13th player ever to score 100 Premier League goals.

2008: February - Wins the League Cup with Tottenham with a 2-1 triumph after extra time against Chelsea at Wembley.

July 28 - Joins Liverpool in a deal worth £20.3million, signing a four-year contract.

October 1 - Scores first goal for Liverpool in 3-1 Champions League win at PSV Eindhoven.

November 8 - Finally nets first Premier League goals for new club with two in 3-0 win against West Brom.

2009: January 25 - Dropped for FA Cup tie against Everton.

February 2 - Signs a four-year deal with Tottenham who pay an initial fee of £12million.

September 5 - Reaches 40 goals for Republic of Ireland with winner against Cyprus.

September 26 - Scores four goals in Tottenham's 5-0 win over Hull in the Premier League.

November 18 - Scores 41st international goal in 1-1 draw against France, in a World Cup play-off. France qualify 2-1 on aggregate, thanks to a controversial goal from William Gallas, after Thierry Henry handballed, which Keane describes as "a bit of a killer".

2010: February 1 - Signs for Celtic on loan until the end of the season.

Posh appoint Gannon

2010-02-01T19:18:00.000-08:00

The Posh only parted company with Cooper on Monday, but have moved quickly to install his replacement.

Cooper, who replaced Darren Ferguson at the helm on 16th November, was shown to the door after just 13 games in charge.

During that time he was unable to guide Peterborough off the foot of the Championship table, claiming only one win.

The Posh board have decided a change in direction is required to help aid the club's cause and have decided to give Gannon a shot at bringing about a reversal in fortune.

The 41-year-old has been out of work since leaving Motherwell at the end of December.

He has prior experience of working in England from a four-year spell in the hot-seat at Stockport County between 2005 and 2009.

Tottenham striker Robbie Keane joins Celtic

2010-02-01T19:15:00.000-08:00

The 29-year-old Republic of Ireland international travelled to Glasgow on Monday evening, with thousands of fans gathering in wait outside Celtic Park.

Keane was delighted having been consistently linked with the club.

"The club is massive," he said. "I am a Celtic fan and did not have to ask much about it. I always wanted to play for Celtic and it works for all parties."

Celtic had already added Diomansy Kamara from Fulham on loan and Morten Rasmussen from Brondby during January to bolster their strike force.

His situation at Spurs was made, I think, pretty plain to him. He always knew we were very, very keen to get him

Fellow striker Chris Killen had moved from Celtic to the Riverside earlier in the transfer window.

Keane, a lifelong Celtic fan, has made 25 appearances for Spurs this season but has recently been confined to the substitutes' bench.

But he said: "I did not want to come here when I was 34 and struggling.

"I still feel I am in my prime and hope I can help the club."

Spurs manager Harry Redknapp gave his blessing to the switch by the Republic international team's captain and all-time top scorer with 41 goals in almost 100 games.

"He is a Celtic man so it's a dream come true for him," he said.

"Robbie needs to play. He's too good a player not to be starting here regularly. He wants to play all the time.

"It's been difficult to guarantee Robbie a starting place at the moment.

"He's not a happy man when he's not playing regularly, but he loves his football; he's a great trainer, a great man about the place.

"Crouch has been in good form with Defoe and I have Roman Pavlyuchenko and brought in Eidur Gudjohnsen."

Keane signed for Spurs in 2002, making almost 200 appearances and scoring 80 goals, before joining Liverpool for around £20m in July 2008.

However, he went on to make only 15 appearances for the Anfield side and rejoined Spurs in February 2009 for £12m, taking his cumulative transfer fees to more than £70m.

His previous clubs include Wolves, Coventry, Inter Milan and Leeds.

Celtic chief executive Peter Lawwell said: "We've been pretty persistent in the last few windows in terms of keeping in touch with what he was wanting to do.

"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."

Lawwell said there was no specific option to make the move permanent but did not rule out doing just that in the summer.

Lawwell refused to reveal how Keane's salary - reportedly in the region of £65,000 a week - would be paid and denied his signing 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."

Celtic had also been negotiating with Real Mallorca in an attempt to sign defender Ivan Ramis, but the Glasgow club said that the signing of Keane would be their last of the January transfer window.

Rafael Benitez denies Juventus agreement

2010-01-31T22:48:00.000-08:00

Several Italian newspapers claimed the Spaniard had agreed terms to take over at the Turin giants in the summer.

But in a statement, Benitez, 49, sought to quash the continued speculation.

"Contrary to reports in the Italian media this weekend, I want to make it absolutely clear I have no agreement with Juventus," Benitez said.

"I have not and will not be meeting Juventus or their representatives or any other club.

"I have a long-term contract with Liverpool and I'll repeat what I said on Friday that I am happy here and my only focus is to do my job as well as I can to get the team back into to the top four, beginning with the derby against Everton."

Reports in Italy on Sunday said Benitez had made a verbal agreement with Juventus about taking over in June.

Got_better
It was claimed that officials from the Turin club were in talks with Benitez's lawyers, who would then negotiate his release from his contract at Liverpool, which runs until 2014.

The Italian side sacked manager Ciro Ferrara on Friday and appointed Alberto Zaccheroni as caretaker until the end of the season.

Benitez had previously refused to rule out the switch, admitting on Friday that he was "proud" to be linked to Juventus.

Sunday's statement gives Liverpool fans more clarity about their manager's thinking, just as results appear to be improving.

The 2-0 victory over Bolton on Saturday was the Reds' sixth straight league game without defeat, suggesting the Spaniard may yet come good on his much-maligned "guarantee" of a top-four finish.

However, he remains under pressure following early exits from the Champions League, FA Cup and Carling Cup and the failure to mount a title challenge.

The Reds, currently 13 points adrift of league leaders Chelsea, host Merseyside rivals Everton on Saturday.

GRANT CAN`T RULE OUT MORE DEPARTURES

2010-01-31T22:42:00.000-08:00

Avram Grant admits he cannot guarantee there will be no more departures from Portsmouth on Monday.

Grant was furious on Friday when he discovered Younes Kaboul and Asmir Begovic had been offered to Tottenham behind his back.

The Begovic deal subsequently collapsed but with Kaboul now at White Hart Lane, Pompey's already slim chances of avoiding relegation have taken yet another nosedive.

With only loan players an option following the partial lifting of the transfer embargo by the Premier League last week, the chaotic state of life at Fratton Park has been laid bare for all to see.

And, after watching his side turn in a spirited performance but ultimately lose 2-0 at Manchester City on Sunday, Grant confirmed he has no idea what Monday will bring.

"I cannot clarify anything because it is changing every hour," he told BBC TV's Match of the Day.

"I don't think we will lose any more players but I didn't think players would leave before and we lost one of our best, so I cannot guarantee it."

Grant was cryptic when it came to his own position, although it seems the former Chelsea boss is committed to trying to steer Portsmouth through this hugely troubling time.

Wages are due to be paid on Monday - a day late - out of the £6million they are said to be receiving from Kaboul.

But the threat of administration hangs over the cash-strapped south coast outfit and Grant knows anything is possible in the battle to survive.

"We need to do something to ensure the club will survive," he said.

"The club is important. It is a city with a team. It is not like in London where they have teams with a city.

"Portsmouth belongs to the people and we need to do everything because they are good for English football."

Grant will prepare his side for Wednesday's visit to Fulham knowing a trip to title contenders Manchester United is looming next weekend.

And, for now at least, he is determined to deflect attention away from himself.

"It is not good we lost players. I am not happy with it. I don't like it. But what can I do?" he said. "This is the situation.

"I am not the issue. The issue is the club and this city. As long as I am here I will do everything that I can.

"Who knows how long I will be here? Nobody does How long will Roberto Mancini be at Manchester City. This is the life of a manager.

"I came here to build something. I am still trying to do it. We can either give up or fight. And I am not giving up."

Blues hit back to earn their Spurs

2010-01-31T22:35:00.000-08:00

Liam Ridgewell scored an injury-time equaliser to salvage a point for Birmingham as they drew 1-1 with Tottenham at St Andrew's on Saturday. Jermain Defoe had looked to have put Spurs on course for a double over Blues and condemn them to a second defeat in four days.

But Ridgewell popped up in the dying seconds to rescue a share of the spoils for the home side.

The visitors were the better side for long periods with David Bentley impressing on the right wing and full-back Gareth Bale getting forward on the opposite flank to good effect.

And the poor finishing of City striker Christian Benitez highlighted why Alex McLeish is in the market for a striker, with Spurs' Roman Pavlyuchenko remaining top of his wish list.

But Birmingham this season have had that never-say-die quality about their performances - and it surfaced again.

Blues leading scorer Lee Bowyer had a good chance to open the scoring after four minutes.

James McFadden linked up well with Benitez before playing the ball into the path of the midfielder 15 yards out.

But Bowyer did not make a full contact with his low drive and Heurelho Gomes was able to save away to his right.

A mistake by Bowyer almost proved costly after his loose pass was seized onto by Bentley.

His shot was blocked by Liam Ridgewell but the rebound fell invitingly to Luka Modric who would have been disappointed to screw his shot past the far post.

McLeish seemed unhappy with the way his side had started judging by the verbal volley he aimed at his players who were guilty of some casual and sloppy play.

But Birmingham squandered another good opening on the counter-attack with Benitez this time guilty of some poor finishing.

Cameron Jerome created the chance and then Benitez found himself with only Gomes to beat after turning inside Michael Dawson.

But he fired a low weak drive straight at the Brazilian keeper when he could have picked his spot.

Bentley continued to pose a threat to the home side and he went past Ridgewell before unleashing a fierce shot from a narrow angle which Hart turned aside for a corner.

Birmingham forced a trio of corners in quick succession and the third of them from McFadden flew right across the six yard box but no-one was able to apply a finishing touch.

Tottenham began the second half on the offensive and Hart went down to his left to smother a shot from Bentley 12 yards out and was able to gather the rebound.

Crouch missed Spurs' best chance of the game to date after 52 minutes.

Defoe was released by Wilson Palacios and then slightly miscontrolled the ball, but it fell invitingly to Crouch who stabbed a weak effort wide.

Johnson became the first player to be yellow carded after 57 minutes for showing dissent towards a referee's assistant.

Then Palacios was booked for bringing down Bowyer on the edge of the Spurs box

The cautions were now coming thick and fast with Bowyer going into the notebook for a lunge at Palacios.

Tottenham's pressure finally paid off after 69 minutes when Bale's centre was flicked on by Crouch - and Defoe did the rest from close range.

Birmingham tried to retaliate and Benitez beat the offside trap to find himself clear of the Spurs defence.

But the Ecuador international opted to cut back inside and, by the time he elected to shoot, Spurs had enough players back to block his shot.

Defoe was booked for deliberate handball as the home side tried to build up some momentum.

McFadden sliced a shot wide after a deflected drive from Jerome had fallen into his path.

Then in injury time Ridgewell equalised for City after Jerome had headed a McFadden centre back across goal.

Villarreal sack Valverde

2010-01-31T22:28:00.000-08:00

The Primera Liga outfit announced that they had parted company with their boss shortly after Sunday's 2-0 defeat to Osasuna.

That setback leaves the Yellow Submarines ninth in the Spanish top flight, eight points adrift of the UEFA Champions League places.

Valverde was only appointed at El Madrigal over the summer, stepping into the void created by Manuel Pellegrini's defection to Real Madrid.

He has, however, lasted just seven months in the post after failing to impress the club's board.

Valverde has previously worked at Athletic Bilbao, Espanyol and Olympiakos.

GRANT CAN`T RULE OUT MORE DEPARTURES

2010-01-31T19:57:00.000-08:00

Wayne Rooney not for sale at any price - Man Utd

2010-01-31T19:52:00.000-08:00

Wayne Rooney not for sale at any price - Man Utd

Rooney's current Old Trafford contract expires in 2012

Striker Wayne Rooney is not for sale at any price, Manchester United chief executive David Gill told BBC Sport.

Rooney is in brilliant form with 21 goals this season which could trigger an offer from Europe, with Barcelona and Real Madrid said to be interested.

But Gill told BBC 5 live Sportsweek: "Unless Alex agreed to it, we would not accept an offer, regardless of the value, for a player we want to keep."

Gill said they had a 35m Euro bid for France striker Karim Benzema refused.

United manager Sir Alex Ferguson had been tracking the talented 22-year-old for months but saw his offer rejected by Lyon, who accepted a 41m Euro bid by Spanish giants Real Madrid in July 2009.

"We didn't get Benzema but we did offer 35m Euros," said Gill.

Man Utd chief executive David Gill
"It was just one phone call to the States saying we would like to make an offer for him 35m Euros and they said 'fine'. We did it, but he went to Real for something like over 40m Euros.

"But Alex has gone on record saying that was too much."

Gill also alleviated fears that United's owners, the Glazer family, would sell Old Trafford or the club's Carrington training ground.

A prospectus circulated to potential investors prior to the club's £504m bond issue last week suggested Carrington could be sold to a holding company controlled by the Glazer family and leased back to the club.

But Gill said: "I am 100% convinced that will never happen under Glazer family ownership. The sale and leaseback opportunity within the bond document is done for financial and tax planning. Manchester United Limited continue to have complete control of Carrington."

The bond issue allowed the club to pay off nearly all their outstanding bank debts of £509m, although the debts of the club's parent firm, Red Football Joint Venture, rose to £716.5m in the year to June 2009.

While the club now faces an annual interest bill of £45m a year, Gill said the club has no financial reasons to sell their prized assets, including Rooney, who is enjoying his best form for United since his £25m move from Everton in 2004.

"Wayne has a contract through until 2012," said Gill. "He has gone on record to say he wants to stay and we want him to stay.

"I'm sure that will be addressed in the close season. We hope that would be the case as we want to put him on a new, long-term contract. He's 24 and got the best years of his life ahead of him.

"Very few players, particularly UK-based players, want to leave Manchester United."

And Gill's pledge to keep hold of Rooney, was backed up by the player himself who spoke of his desire to remain at United.

"This is my club and I'm very happy here," said Rooney.

"My family live 30 minutes away. I'm perfectly happy and there is no reason to play my football anywhere else. Manchester United are the biggest club in the world."

Gill stressed that United's debts of £500m are a "misconception" because the club has about £140m in cash available, over half of which was generated by Cristiano Ronaldo's world record £80m transfer from United to Real Madrid last summer.

And he confirmed manager Sir Alex Ferguson can spend all £80m on new players, should he wish to expand the squad.

"I'm sure if he needed that money, it would be spent," said Gill, who oversaw the arrival of defender Chris Smalling from Fulham for about £7m on Thursday.

"From my own personal perspective, we have no doubt that they (the Glazers) would support whatever we require.

"They will only get value back by ensuring the team continues to be successful, continues to attract exciting players and continues to produce results off the pitch.

"The Glazer family bought (American football team) the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 1995 and 15 years later, they still own that - they are in it for the long-term."

While Gill reiterated the Glazers' commitment to the club, supporters are planning a 10-minute boycott of the Champions League last 16 match against AC Milan on 10 March.

Concerned by the debt the club has accumulated under the Glazers, a number of fans plan to enter the ground 10 minutes after kick-off to expose empty seats at the ground with millions of people watching around the world.

Hargo_Returns (LUHG)
But Gill believes any protest would be counterproductive on a night when United will be bidding to reach the Champions League quarter-finals.

"I would appeal to the fans to be sensible and get behind the team," he added.

"We are a very well-run club and, given what's happening at other clubs, people should be proud of what's happening at Manchester United.

However, Manchester United Supporters' Trust chief executive Duncan Drasdo said he was unsatisfied with Gill's assurances, adding that they left many questions unanswered.

"I think there was a lot of window dressing there," Drasdo told BBC Sport.

"The key point here is, how much money are the Glazers putting into Manchester United versus how much they are taking out. The answer is they are putting none in and taking a hell of a lot out.

"The key to the bond issue is that it has opened the door to Manchester United's vault and now the Glazers can drive in with a fork-lift truck and load up cash.

"They could take up to £130m out of the club in the first year and up to £500m in the seven years of the bond issue.

"They are leaching huge amounts of money from our football club - money that fans are paying through huge increases in ticket prices.

"How much money are the Glazers taking out of Manchester United, wasting on interest fess, banking fees, hedging of interest rates.

"How much are they taking out for their personal companies in management fees? That would be the interesting question I would like answered."

REAL ZARAGOZA SIGN EDMILSON

2010-01-31T19:45:00.002-08:00

Real Zaragoza have continued their major recruitment drive during the January transfer window with the signing of Brazilian World Cup winner Edmilson.

Edmilson, who has won more than 40 caps for his country and was part of the 2002 World Cup-winning squad, has penned an initial five-month contract with Zaragoza with the option of a further season.

The 33-year-old midfielder has plenty of experience of the Primera Division having spent four seasons at Barcelona and another at Villarreal prior to returning to his homeland with Palmeiras last year.

He becomes the seventh new arrival at Zaragoza since the start of the month, following Matteo Contini, Roberto Jimenez, Adrian Colunga, Humberto Suazo, Jiri Jarosik and Eliseu.

Zaragoza climbed one place to 18th today after defeating fellow strugglers Tenerife 3-1, with Colunga and Suazo both on the mark.

Arsenal 1 - 3 Man Utd

2010-01-31T19:45:00.001-08:00

Manchester United outclassed Arsenal at the Emirates to maintain the pressure on Premier League leaders Chelsea - and brutally expose Arsene Wenger's title ambitions.

Sir Alex Ferguson's champions unleashed a devastating display of sweeping, counter-attacking football inspired by the brilliance of Wayne Rooney and Nani.

Wenger had outlined the importance of the meeting with United in the context of the battle to win the Premier League, and by the final whistle saw his hopes placed in painful perspective by a masterful United.

MUFC 1902
United now stand only one point behind Chelsea having played a game more, but the manner of this victory will send out the message that no-one will find it easy to wrest the title away from Ferguson's side.

Nani, so long a figure of frustration at Old Trafford, has rarely performed with more threat and finesse than he did in the first 45 minutes here as he ran Gael Clichy ragged and ensured United had established a two-goal lead by the interval.

He baffled Arsenal with a stunning piece of trickery that forced uncertain Arsenal keeper Manuel Almunia to turn his cross into his own net after 33 minutes and then set up Rooney's 100th Premier League goal four minutes later.

Best performance of the season - Rooney
United caught Arsenal cold as they turned defence into attack, Rooney sprinting from just outside his own area to take a return pass from Park and finish in style.

Ji-Sung Park graphically illustrated the gulf between Arsenal and United just after half-time when he took advantage of a path lack of resistance to run unchallenged from inside his own half to beat Almunia.

Thomas Vermaelen's deflected shot late on set up an Arsenal rally of sorts, but the scoreline barely reflects United's superiority as they gave the Gunners a painful lesson in ruthless, cutting edge football.

United boss Ferguson opted for Nani ahead of £15m summer signing Antonio Valencia - and the success of the decision was probably beyond all his expectations as the Portuguese winger tortured Arsenal.

Andrey Arshavin offered early optimism for Arsenal's fans with a couple of trademark twisting runs and shots off target - but they turned out to be a false dawn as United soon moved into a different class to Arsenal.

The belief is there - Phelan
William Gallas needed to make timely interventions as United's crisp passing threatened to carve United open, with Nani the primary source of danger as he proved simply too fast and too clever for Clichy.

And when Nani helped fashion United's opener after 33 minutes, it was the signal for a blistering passage of play that saw Arsenal's hopes of getting anything from such a crucial game disintegrate.

Nani tricked his way past Cesc Fabregas into the area with sleight of foot worthy of his celebrated former United team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo, although Almunia should have done a lot better than palm the ball in with a feeble attempt at clearance.

United topped that for quality four minutes later with a goal that, for Arsenal, bore the grim hallmarks of Ronaldo's third goal in the Champions League semi-final second leg at The Emirates last season.

Rooney, not far from the edge of his own penalty area, released the rampaging Nani down the right-flank, and arrived at the other end of the pitch on cue to drill a low finish past Almunia and send Ferguson out of his technical area and along the touchline in sheer delight.

Arsenal were not in the game - Wenger
Nani should have made it three when Rooney found him unmarked at the far post, but his goalbound shot took a crucial touch of Vermaelen that went undetected by referee Chris Foy and flew wide.

If Arsenal had any hope of mounting a fightback they were emphatically snuffed out seven minutes after the interval in a manner that would have been as embarrassing for Wenger as it was satisfying for Ferguson.

Park ran from just inside his own half, free from any Arsenal challenge, and accepted what was almost an open invitation to slip the simplest of finishes past the exposed Almunia.

Vermaelen gave the discontented Arsenal fans a moment of cheer after 80 minutes when his shot was deflected out of the reach of Edwin van der Sar by Jonny Evans - and there were even further opportunities to set up the unlikely prospect of a thrilling finale.

Gallas headed wide of an open goal and Vermaelen saw a shot blocked by Patrice Evra, but Rooney displayed a rare moment of fallibility by wasting the opportunity to give the score a more realistic appearance, shooting wide in stoppage time.

Ligue 1 round-up

2010-01-31T19:37:00.001-08:00

Elsewhere, Valenciennes were held at home as they remain stuck in the midst of mid-table and Lyon came from behind to see off PSG.

Auxerre are now just a point adrift of the UEFA Champions League places after they saw off St Etienne 1-0.

Jean-Pascal Mignot grabbed the only goal of the game against the Ligue 1 strugglers after 77 minutes.

Paris St Germain paid the price for disciplinary troubles as they slipped to a 2-1 defeat away at Lyon.

The capital giants took the lead at Stade Gerland through Mevlut Erdine's ninth minute strike.

The game turned in favour of the hosts, though, on 59 minutes when Mamadou Sakho was shown a straight red card for handball.

Lyon took full advantage of their numerical advantage as Bafetimbi Gomis (76) and Cris (82) turned the tie on its head.

Valenciennes have now taken only one win from their last seven fixtures after being held 1-1 by Sochaux.

Johan Audel fired them in front after 20 minutes at Stade Nungesser but Damien Perquis levelled for the visitors eight minutes into the second half.

McBreen pleases winners and losers

2010-01-31T19:27:00.000-08:00

Daniel McBreen's current and future A-League coaches were both high on the striker after his brace on Sunday and Perth Glory boss Dave Mitchell believes he's ready for the Socceroos.

McBreen has scored four goals in four matches with the Glory since crossing from North Queensland and his Sunday double helped Perth to a 3-1 win over Central Coast and into the finals.

Mitchell has been tremendously impressed over the past month but was just as pleased that Mariners coach Lawrie McKinna allowed McBreen to sign for the short stint before joining Central Coast next season.

"He's a fantastic player and, based on the performances, we would be certainly recommending him to Pim Verbeek as a target man," Mitchell said.

"He's unselfish, works hard, holds the ball up well and scores goals. As a big target man for the national team, I'd give him a big tick.

"Credit goes to Lawrie as well because when negotiations were going on with Daniel about coming here he ran it by Lawrie and he said it was no problem."

McKinna's long-term signing was certainly shown to be a good one on Sunday and McKinna was pleased with McBreen's performance, even at the Mariners' expense.

"If Daniel had not put in at a hundred per cent effort I would have been disappointed in the boy because the reason we signed him has been for his good work," McKinna said.

The arrival of McBreen and Steve McGarry, plus the expected retention of Socceroos trio Mile Sterjovski, Jacob Burns and Chris Coyne, has given Mitchell the best depth he's ever had and he's delighted to have Perth in the finals for the first time.

"This is the best I've seen it with the depth in the squad and that's regenerated with the really good players we've got within the club now. We went out and targeted certain players who we were able to get," Mitchell said.

"That has generated with the team in the finals now and that's great for the club and supporters."