Football Focus

BODYFLIGHT

2011-08-06T17:42:00.001+01:00

Villas-Boas outlines vision

2011-06-23T21:20:00.002+01:00

André Villas-Boas has promised a democratic, collective approach as Chelsea manager.

The Portuguese coach has accepted comparisons with José Mourinho are inevitable after being appointed the Blues' new boss on a three-year deal.

Villas-Boas, 33, worked under Mourinho during his Chelsea reign before following the same route to Stamford Bridge by guiding Porto to European and domestic glory.

But while the now Real Madrid coach arrived in England declaring himself 'the special one', Villas-Boas has vowed to foster a team ethic at Chelsea, who paid a reported release fee of £13.3million for his services.

"The main important thing that people have to reflect on is that I don't see the game as a one-man show, I see the game as the getting together of ideas and collective ideas and good players," he told the club's official website.

"Chelsea appointed me basically for human qualities and that is what I want to bring into this club again.

"The most important thing is to motivate the players to get their ambitions right, to reflect again on what the club has achieved in the last six years and we need to keep this route to success.

"We are a technical staff that focuses a lot on unlocking potential. We are a technical staff that incentivises a lot of freedom of choice because in the end, when the players are on the pitch, they face different situations that they have to solve without the help of their manager.

"This is the kind of stimulus that we want the players to have, responsibility and making decisions, because in the end the game is decided by them on the pitch.

"It is a clashing together of two organisations and in the end it is the relationship between all of our players that can lead us to success, and that is what I want to work on."

Chelsea had already been linked with a number of high-profile players before Villas-Boas' appoitment and he admits the club will have to consider their options in the transfer market.

However, he has stressed that his priority is to keep the nucleus of the squad he has inherited from Carlo Ancelotti together.

"I think it is something that is normal for any club to have a look into the market, but it is also normal to respect the things we have and the quality of players we have," he explained.

"So there will be no radical changes. We need to absorb things, respect our winning past and try to focus on 2011/12 as a year when we can continue to win."

Villas-Boas becomes the youngest Premier League manager by four years and was still 17 when he earned his UEFA C licence.

He worked under Bobby Robson and Mourinho at Porto, remaining part of Mourinho's backroom team when he left for Chelsea then Inter Milan.

Portuguese club Académica handed Villas-Boas his first head coach's job in 2009 and despite then repeating his mentor's path to Stamford Bridge, he insists it is merely a coincidence.

"Coaching was not a kind of obssession and neither did I use José as the way to arrive into this path", he said. "It was something that happened naturally.

"I think there is no way you can avoid comparison, it is something that is the interest of the media. I didn't take the Porto job nor the Chelsea job because José made the same steps.

"They are two of the most sought-after clubs in the world and in the end I had the opportunity and was able to make them find something in me that they thought would continue their route to success."

Despite winning the club's first-ever double in his first season, Carlo Ancelotti was sacked after a barren 2010/11 campaign.

But Villas-Boas is not affraid of becoming Roman Abramovich's sixth permanent boss in just eight years in charge.

"Chelsea is a club that in the last six years has achieved so much and people are expecting us to be the same way," he said.

"There is not going to be more or less tolerance for me if I am not successful so this is the challenge I face and I feel confident that we can motivate everybody, not only the players but also the structure.

"I feel confident I can respond to the ambitions of the supporters and the ambitions of the owner and the administration."

Brazil legend Ronaldo retired from football

2011-02-14T16:44:00.002Z

Brazilian legend Ronaldo has confirmed his retirement from football.

The 34-year-old had a glittering career, helping Brazil win two World Cups and being named FIFA World Player of the Year in 1996, 1997 and 2002.

He had been expected to quit at the end of the season but the early elimination of his club, Corinthians, from the Copa Libertadores brought forward the date.

"I wanted to continue, but I can't. I think of an action, but I can't do it the way I want to. It's time," he said.

Ronaldo's career took him to some of Europe's top clubs, including Spanish rivals Barcelona and Real Madrid, as well as Italian neighbours AC Milan and Inter Milan.

But it was on the world stage where he made the biggest impact, scoring a record total of 15 goals at three World Cups.

He also went to the 1994 tournament in the United States as a member of the Brazilian squad that went on to win the trophy, but the 17-year-old did not get on the pitch.

However, four years later he scored four goals to help Brazil reach the final against hosts France.

Mystery surrounded the match as Ronaldo's name was left off the teamsheet when it was issued 72 minutes before kick-off, only for an amended version to appear in time for the start of the game amid rumours of panic attacks and a dispute within the Brazilian camp.

Whatever happened prior to the game, Ronaldo was below par and his performance was ecplised by Zinedine Zidane, the only other footballer to have won the World Player of the Year title on three occasions.

The Frenchman scored twice as France won 3-0.

At the 2002 World Cup Ronaldo was at his imperious best, scoring in every game in Japan and South Korea, bar the 2-1 quarter-final victory over England.

He grabbed both of Brazil's goals in the 2-0 win over Germany in the final to take his tally for the tournament to eight.

In 2006 he scored twice in a 4-1 victory over Japan to draw level with Germany's Gerd Muller as the top scorer in World Cup finals history on 14, before breaking that record with a goal against Ghana.

He ended his international career having scored 62 goals in 97 appearances.

On domestic front, Ronaldo first moved to Europe in the 1994-95 season, joining Dutch side PSV Eindhoven from Cruzeiro, scoring 30 league goals in his first season and 12 in 13 games during an injury-hit second campaign.

Ronaldo's strike rate alerted former England manager Sir Bobby Robson, who signed the Brazilian when he took over as Barcelona coach in 1996 and the striker continued his impressive record at the Nou Camp, scoring 47 times in 49 appearances.

In 1996, at the age of 20, he became the youngest player to win FIFA's World Player of the Year title and picked up the award again 12 months later.

By that time he had moved clubs once more, this time joining Inter for a then world-record fee of £19m. He hit 59 goals in 99 appearances during an injury-troubled four years with the Italian side.

He damaged his knee in 1999 and then again during his comeback in February 2000, which kept him out of the game for another two years.

His next move took him back to Spain, where he joined Real Madrid in the summer of 2002 for £20m. Injury stopped him making his debut until October, but he scored twice on his first appearance to endear himself to the fans and netted 21 more times that season to help win the La Liga title.

He also scored a hat-trick against Manchester United in the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

He also helped the Spanish side win another league title in 2006/07 but further injuries and a lack of fitness lead him being deemed surplus to requirements and he returned to Italy in 2007, joining AC Milan.

Another knee injury cut short his playing career at the San Siro in May 2008 and he returned to Brazil in 2009 to sign for Corinthians.

Real deny Fàbregas talk

2011-02-14T16:34:00.002Z

Real Madrid have insisted they have not lodged a bid for Arsenal captain Cesc Fàbregas.

Fàbregas, who was the subject of bids from former club Barcelona in the summer, is now being strongly linked with a summer move to Real.

Reports in England and Spain have reported that Real were ready to make a €65million move for the Arsenal star.

But Madrid general manager Jorge Valdano has confirmed that they have made no bid or approach for the 23-year-old.

"We never made an offer for him (Fàbregas) and we haven't spoken with Arsenal either," Valdano said.

"We have a good relationship with Arsenal and we don't want any misunderstanding."

FA issues Twitter warning

2011-02-13T12:36:00.002Z

The Football Association have warned players that any improper comments on Twitter and other social networking sites may lead to disciplinary action.

Ryan Babel, who has now left Liverpool for Hoffenheim, became the first player to be sanctioned for a Tweet when he was fined £10,000 for comments made about referee Howard Webb and a mocked-up photo of the official in a Manchester United shirt.

Young Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere avoided any action last week despite complaining of 'inconsistent refereeing' from Phil Dowd following the Gunners' 4-4 draw with Newcastle at St. James' Park.

Now the game's governing body have issued a statement making it clear that any comments from players on social networking sites will be regarded as 'public comment'.

"The FA has issued clarification to participants relating to the use of social networking sites, including, but not limited to Twitter, Facebook and internet blogs," the statement read.

"Participants should be aware that comments made on such sites may be considered public comment, and that further to FA Rule E3, any comments which are deemed improper, bring the game into disrepute, or are threatening, abusive, indecent or insulting may lead to disciplinary action.

"Comments which are personal in nature or could be construed as offensive, use foul language or contain direct or indirect threats aimed at other participants are likely to be considered improper."

Players have also been warned that even though they believe their postings are only visible to a limited number of selected people they may still end up in the public domain.

"Consequently, care should be exercised with regards to the contents of such postings," continued the statement.

"In addition, we would remind participants that social networking portings could also lead to civil proceedings being brought by affected parties."

Puyol - Cesc is coming

2010-07-18T15:14:00.002+01:00

Carles Puyol believes there is little Arsenal can do to prevent Cesc Fàbregas from returning to Barcelona.

The Gunners skipper continues to find himself at the centre of long-running transfer saga, with his future at Emirates Stadium far from certain.

Fàbregas has openly expressed his desire to head back to his Catalan roots, and Barça have made it clear that they are keen to have him back.

However, Arsenal are reluctant to let their talismanic leader leave and have already spurned one sizeable approach for their captain.

It appears as though they may have been able to hold off Barça's advances for at least another 12 months, but Puyol, skipper at Camp Nou, is adamant that Fàbregas will soon be back where he belongs.

"Cesc is a really nice guy and desperate to become a Barcelona player," Puyol said in the Daily Star Sunday.

"But he is not the sort of player to be ruthless and start using the media to get him the move that he wants."

Iniesta - I always kept faith

2010-07-13T19:44:00.003+01:00

Spain's World Cup hero Andrés Iniesta insists he was always confident his side could lift the trophy, despite enduring a turbulent season.

Midfielder Iniesta who netted the extra-time winner for Spain in Sunday's World Cup final against Holland, was plagued by a thigh injury last term and only returned for Barcelona at the end of the campaign.

The 26-year-old then aggravated the problem during Spain's friendly win over Poland ahead of the South Africa tournament and was sidelined once again as Vicente del Bosque's side lost 1-0 to Switzerland in their opening group match.

But Iniesta, who reappeared to play a key role in Spain's first World Cup triumph, claims he never doubted his side could land the world title.

World domination for Spain

2010-07-11T22:44:00.000+01:00

SPAIN HAVE WON THE WORLD CUP!

INIESTA 116th MINUTE

Holland v Spain preview

2010-07-11T13:43:00.003+01:00

There will be a new nation engraved on the World Cup trophy come Sunday evening as European heavyweights Holland and Spain clash in the final at Johannesburg's Soccer City stadium.

The Dutch will be hoping it's a case of 'third time lucky' following final heartbreak in the 1974 and '78 finals, while this is Spain's first date with destiny.

European champions Spain have claimed knockout victories over Portugal, Paraguay and Germany to reach the final, and have not conceded a goal in the process.

One more triumph in South Africa's capital city will see Vicente del Bosque's men end 80 years of waiting and reassert Spanish footballing dominance following their Euro 2008 triumph in Austria-Switzerland.

Spain's defence has been breached only twice, Switzerland's Gelson Fernandes beating Iker Casillas in their tournament opener and Chile netting in the final group game. The 1-0 defeat by Switzerland now looks a mere aberration and Spain will become the only World Cup winners to have lost their opening game if they overcome the Dutch.

David Villa's potency in front of goal has also been integral to the run, his five goals so far have put him on the brink of a first ever Golden Boot award.

Del Bosque is not expected to make many changes to his starting line-up from the side which overcame Germany 1-0 in the semi-finals.

That means back-up defender Carlos Marchena is unlikely to start despite coming on in the last three matches and holding the record of 55 consecutive international appearances without losing.

Out-of-form Liverpool striker Fernando Torres also looks certain to have to settle for a place on the bench, with Barcelona attacker Pedro partnering Villa up top.

Holland also have a number of potential players of the tournament at their disposal, not least attacking midfielder and playmaker Wesley Sneijder.

The 26-year-old shares the tournament scoring lead alongside Villa and will once again be instrumental to his nation's hopes of glory.

Sneijder could also become the first European player to win the World Cup in the same season as the UEFA Champions League and a domestic league and cup double. He clinched the European title, Serie A and Italian Cup with Inter Milan.

Holland coach Bert van Marwijk has steered his side to six successive wins in the competition, scoring 12 goals and playing some of the most attractive football to-boot.

Their quarter-final comeback triumph over Brazil was arguably their most impressive display as they battled back from 1-0 down to snatch a 2-1 win in Port Elizabeth.

The Oranje are expected to make two changes from the starting XI which overcame Uruguay 3-2 in the semi-finals.

Dutch midfielder Nigel de Jong and defender Gregory van der Wiel should return after suspension with Khalid Boulahrouz and Demy de Zeeuw dropping out.

Whatever happens, one nation will be the eighth to win the World Cup in the tournament's 80-year history and the first new game on the cup since France 12 years ago.

Sneijder's heart is with Inter

2010-07-08T19:51:00.004+01:00

Holland's World Cup finalist Wesley Sneijder has told Inter Milan that he has no intention of leaving the Giuseppe Meazza this summer.

Reports have emerged that Manchester United are planning a £29million offer for the classy playmaker after he helped Inter to the treble trophy success of the UEFA Champions League, Serie A and Coppa Italia last season. But as he prepares for Sunday's World Cup final against Spain, Sneijder insists that he is fully committed to the Italians and has seemingly crushed Sir Alex Ferguson's hopes of luring the 26-year-old to Old Trafford.

The Dutchman, who joined Inter in the August of 2009 having failed to make the grade at Real Madrid, said: "I am staying. I will play for Inter Milan next season.

"My heart is in Milan. With Inter, I won everything last season and there's a lot more to win, like the European Super Cup, Italian Super Cup and the World Club Cup, which are all great trophies."

Sneijder is aware of Manchester United's interest, but Inter president Massimo Moratti told the Italian press on Wednesday that the midfielder, the joint top-scorer at this summer's World Cup, was not for sale.

Cole and Ballack exit Blues

2010-06-10T01:05:00.002+01:00

Joe Cole and Michael Ballack will leave Chelsea when their current contracts expire at the end of the month.

The midfield duo had been tipped to depart Stamford Bridge over the summer and the Blues have now confirmed that they will be heading for pastures new.

England international Cole has been linked with host of rival Premier League clubs, who will now be able to secure his services on a Bosman free transfer.

Manchester United and Tottenham are the favourites for his signature, with Spurs boss Harry Redknapp having confirmed his interest, while Arsenal and Liverpool could also come into the equation.

The creative 28-year-old moved to Stamford Bridge from West Ham in a £6.6million deal in the summer of 2003 and went on to make 282 appearances for the club, bagging 40 goals.

Cole suffered a ruptured cruciate ligament in January 2009 but battled his way back to full fitness to play his part in the Blues' Premier League and FA Cup success this season, scoring a deft goal in the vital victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford in April. His late season form was enough to secure a place in England manager Fabio Capello's 23-man squad for the World Cup, where he has the chance to showcase his talents to potential suitors this summer.

A statement on the club's official website read: "We would like to thank him for his dedicated years of service and wish him well in his future career."

Germany international skipper Ballack will not feature at the global showpiece having suffered an ankle injury during the FA Cup final victory over Portsmouth.

The veteran midfielder arrived on a free transfer from Bayern Munich in 2006 and went on to score 25 goals in his 168 outings for the West London club.

Chelsea added: "All at the club would like to place on record our thanks for his service and wish him luck for the future."

With the duo deemed surplus to requirements by coach Carlo Ancelotti, it appears likely the Blues will dip into the transfer market to bolster their squad as they look to defend their domestic double and challenge for UEFA Champions League glory.

Nani blow for Portugal

2010-06-08T16:32:00.002+01:00

Portugal have suffered a blow with the news that Nani has been ruled out of the World Cup finals through injury. The Manchester United winger has been forced to miss the showpiece event in South Africa after picking up a shoulder injury in training last week.

It was thought the injury was not too serious, but scans have shown the problem to be worse than first feared.

Portugal coach Carlos Queiroz has called up Benfica's Ruben Amorim as a replacement for Nani in his squad.

"After tests we conclude he is unfit to participate in the World Cup," read a statement from the Portuguese Football Federation.

"The medical file will now be presented to the medical department of Manchester United.

"In light of the report, the Portuguese Football Federation, taking into account the Fifa regulations for the 2010 World Cup, will call-up Ruben Amorim as a replacement."

Nani is the second United player forced to miss the finals after England defender Rio Ferdinand picked up a knee ligament problem in training.

Portugal will now have to make do without Nani as they prepare to tackle Brazil, the Ivory Coast and North Korea in Group G.

Commanding win for Brazil

2010-06-07T23:17:00.002+01:00

Brazil ended their World Cup preparations on a high note with a 5-1 thrashing of Tanzania in Dar-es-Salaam on Monday.

Double strikes from Robinho and Ramires - and a further goal from Kaká - helped the Brazilians to the emphatic result against their most opposition, who scored a late consolation via Jabir Aziz.

Coach Dunga gave game time to all of his players ahead of their opening group game against North Korea on 15th June.

Manchester City forward Robinho, on loan at Santos, drew first blood after just 10 minutes despite appearing to control the ball with his left arm.

The referee allowed the game to continue and, after trading passes with Kaká, he found the back of the net.

Michel Bastos then crossed the ball in the 33rd minute to allow Robinho to complete a simple headed finish and make it 2-0.

Ramires, who came off the bench for Felipe Melo at half-time, was only in action for seven minutes, before scoring a third goal for Brazil with a solo effort from the left flank.

Kaká added the fourth in the 75th minute when he chested a Maicon pass into the net, but Tanzania responded with a consolation goal courtesy of Aziz 11 minutes later.

Ramires landed his second goal from a Daniel Alves cross just before the final whistle to complete the comprehensive win for Brazil.

Higuaín pens new Real deal

2010-06-07T23:09:00.003+01:00

Real Madrid striker Gonzalo Higuaín has put speculation over his future to rest by signing a new contract.

Higuaín had been linked with a move away from Santiago Bernabéu as negotiations over an extended deal were said to be dragging.

However, the 22-year-old has agreed terms with the Spanish giants and will remain at the club until 2016.

The former River Plate man arrived to the Primera Liga side in 2007 and has been Real's top scorer for the past two seasons.

He netted 27 goals last season and will now remain under the stewardship of new manager José Mourinho following the Portuguese tactician's appointment as Manuel Pellegrini's successor.

Higuaín is currently on international duty with Argentina, where he will compete with the likes of Carlos Tévez, Lionel Messi, Sergio Agüero, Diego Milito and Martin Palermo for a place in Diego Maradona's starting line-up.

The Argentinians take on Greece, Nigeria and South Korea in Group B.

Barça keep up Cesc chase

2010-06-04T21:20:00.002+01:00

Barcelona president Joan Laporta is still optimistic of convincing Arsenal to release Cesc Fàbregas.

The Spanish giants were turned down earlier this week when they offered a bid for the 23-year-old Gunners captain, who has long been linked with a return to Camp Nou after plying his trade there as a youngster.

Fàbregas is contracted at the Emirates until 2015 but last month revealed his desire to return to Barça, and the club seem keen to make his dream a reality after reportedly submitting a written offer of €35million (around £29m) to the London club on Tuesday.

"It's a price that we consider to be his market value. Arsenal have rejected it. Now the sporting director (Txiki Begiristain) must decide what should be the next step," said Laporta.

"We are in negotiations and we'll see how they turn out. At times, these operations are resolved at one speed, and others at another.

"We have to do everything we can to convince them (Arsenal) that the best thing for all is to reach an agreement," Laporta said in Spanish daily AS.

The Barça president remains hopeful of bringing the Spanish international to the club, but admits the Gunners will be reluctant to relinquish their star midfielder.

"The club have full confidence that Arsenal will end up understanding the situation," Laporta told the club's official website.

Ideally, Laporta would like to "have the transfer closed as soon as possible, before the start of the World Cup".

He added: "But it will be difficult because Arsenal are entitled to stand firm and that must be respected."

Laporta also shrugged off the idea that Fàbregas could invoke FIFA's Article 17 rule to force his departure from Arsenal.

Article 17 regards compensation for breach of contract.

"I'm not sure if Cesc will take this course, but we want to find an agreement by talking with Arsenal," said Laporta.

"We respect Arsenal a lot, we must have in-depth dialogue and follow his path."

Mexico too good for Italy

2010-06-04T11:49:00.002+01:00

Mexico warmed up for the World Cup finals with a 2-1 friendly win over holders Italy in Brussels.

Arsenal youngster Carlos Vela opened the scoring for Mexico and substitute Alberto Medina added the second before Leonardo Bonucci notched a late consolation for Italy.

Just as England had been outplayed by the Mexicans for long periods at Wembley last week, Italy were given the run-around by Javier Aguirre's team at the King Baudouin Stadium.

Whereas England managed to battle to a 3-1 win however, the Italians were stifled by an improved Mexican backline.

Mexico, who will play the opening game of the 2010 World Cup against hosts South Africa on 11th June in Johannesburg, started with Tottenham's Giovani Dos Santos in attack alongside Manchester United-bound Javier Hernández.

Reports had claimed that Dos Santos had threatened to quit the squad in protest at the exclusion of his brother Jonathan from Aguirre's final 23-man squad.

It was Giovani who carved open the Italians for the opening goal, picking up the ball on halfway and darting down the right before checking inside and floating a left-footed cross into the box for unmarked Arsenal player Vela to drive home past Gianluigi Buffon.

Mexico dominated throughout with Italy searching for just their second goal in the four games they have played since qualifying for the finals in South Africa last October.

Medina, though, doubled the Mexican score when he ran onto a chip over the top of the Italian defence from fellow substitute Cuauhtémoc Blanco and fired home right-footed to beat Buffon at his near post.

The Italian reply came in the 89th minute as substitute Salvatore Bocchetti hit a post within second of replacing Fabio Cannavaro with a left-footed volley. The ball ricocheted off team-mate Giampaolo Pazzini and reached Bonucci at the near post, who fired into the net.

Italy have a final tune-up in Geneva on Saturday against Switzerland before flying to South Africa, where they will open their defence against Paraguay in Cape Town on 14th June.

Forlán keeps his focus

2010-06-04T11:41:00.002+01:00

Reported Tottenham target Diego Forlán is putting all transfer talk aside and concentrating on the World Cup.

Tabloid transfer talk claims Spurs are considering a £20million bid for the Atlético Madrid striker, with Robbie Keane and Roman Pavlyuchenko set to be sold to make way for his arrival.

But the former Manchester United's agent insists that the Uruguay international is simply concentrating on helping his side push for World Cup success in South Africa, where they take on the hosts, France and Mexico in Group A.

Agent Daniel Bolotnicoff told the Daily Star: "Forlán is a player who a lot of people are interested about in the European market.

"Each of the seasons many clubs show interest in him.

"This is not the first time that a Premier League club have wanted to try to buy him back.

"At the moment, though, he is concentrating on the World Cup finals."

Touré agrees Prem switch

2010-06-04T02:45:00.002+01:00

Yaya Touré's agent claims his client will be playing in England next season, with a deal already agreed.

The Barcelona midfielder's representative has refused to state which club an agreement has been struck, but the Ivorian has been strongly linked with Manchester City of late.

The Blues, who already boast Touré's brother Kolo on their books, are believed to be leading the race for his signature, keen to add some much-needed steel in the centre of the park.

The Barça ace has, however, attracted interest from Manchester United and Arsenal in the past, so it is far from certain that he will be turning out at Eastlands next season.

"If everything goes well, Yaya will go to England," Touré's agent, Dimitri Seluk, told Ona FM.

"But we can't talk about definite clubs. We already have a closed deal, and all will be resolved before the World Cup."

Touré joined Barça from Monaco in 2007 and quickly became an integral part of their side, patrolling the area in front of the back four.

He has landed six major trophies during his time at Camp Nou, but has fallen down the pecking order over recent seasons.

Some reports have suggested that he could be used as a makeweight in Barça's protracted efforts to lure Arsenal skipper Cesc Fàbregas back to Catalunya.

That may provide his best route out of the Primera Liga giants, as an asking price of around €36million (£30m) could scare off some potential suitors.

Seluk added: "It seems to me too much money. His club have shown they want him to leave, it's not normal that they're asking for this amount.

"If (Barça president Joan) Laporta likes Touré so much, he could have explained why he didn't play so much.

"This year we haven't spoken to him even one time, and if he leaves it's because that was lacking."

Benítez leaves Liverpool

2010-06-03T18:36:00.002+01:00

Liverpool have confirmed that manager Rafa Benítez is to leave the club by mutual consent after six years at the helm.

The Spaniard found his position under severe scrutiny after a miserable season which saw the Anfield outfit finish seventh in the Premier League, missing out on UEFA Champions League football next term.

Benítez's relationship with American co-owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett had become increasingly strained and rumours began circulating that he was to be shown the door on Wednesday evening.

It emerged negotiations were under way behind the scenes to agree a severance package, which is believed to be £6million, with the former Valencia boss having only recently signed a lucrative new long-term contract.

And Liverpool finally broke their silence over the issue shortly before 4pm on Thursday with confirmation that the man who secured the Champions League trophy in 2005 and the FA Cup the following season was heading for the exit.

Benítez told the club's official website: "It is very sad for me to announce that I will no longer be manager of Liverpool FC. I would like to thank all of the staff and players for their efforts.

"I'll always keep in my heart the good times I've had here, the strong and loyal support of the fans in the tough times and the love from Liverpool.

"I have no words to thank you enough for all these years and I am very proud to say that I was your manager.

"Thank you so much once more and always remember. You'll never walk alone."

The club will now begin their search for a new boss, with managing director Christian Purslow and club ambassador Kenny Dalglish charged with selecting potential candidates for the role.

Several names have already been linked with the post, including Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill, Fulham manager Roy Hodgson and Guus Hiddink, who recently signed a deal to manage the Turkey national side.

Benítez's departure leaves the club in an even greater state of flux, with Hicks and Gillett keen to sell their stake to new owners and doubts persisting over the future of star players such as Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres.

Reds chairman Martin Broughton saluted their outgoing manager but claimed that a change at the top was necessary after a miserable season on the field.

He said: "Rafa will forever be part of Liverpool folklore after bringing home the Champions League following the epic final in Istanbul but after a disappointing season both parties felt a fresh start would be best for all concerned."

Maicon targets Madrid move

2010-06-03T14:50:00.002+01:00

Inter Milan full-back Maicon has revealed he has a burning ambition to play for Real Madrid.

The Brazil international was part of the Inter side that won the treble last season, topped off with a triumph in the UEFA Champions League.

Former manager José Mourinho masterminded the Nerazzurri's success, but he has now moved on to pastures new at the Bernabéu and Maicon wants to follow suit.

He told Spanish daily AS: "What I want is to play at Madrid and for me it would be an honour to be able to do that because I've already said it would be a great opportunity in my career."

The 28-year-old has been strongly linked with a move to Los Merengues, and he has dismissed speculation regarding a move to Premier League outfit Manchester City.

"With Manchester City I have nothing (agreed), I can assure," he added.

"I'm going to say it very clearly so there are no misunderstandings. I want to play at Madrid, I don't want to go to Manchester City.

"Moreover, I repeat that I have nothing (agreed) with the English club."

Maicon is preparing to compete in this summer's World Cup with Brazil, but is hoping to get his club future resolved.

He admits he had a great relationship with Mourinho during his time in Italy, and the former Cruzeiro and Monaco player seems set on linking up with him in Spain.

"Mourinho is a great coach and I don't think anybody can dispute that," he remarked.

"I have a great relationship with him and for me it would be nice to be able to play under him again.

"We have won many things together and I hope to be able to repeat that. He's one of the best coaches that I've come across in my life."

Inter reveal Benítez interest

2010-06-03T14:42:00.003+01:00

Inter Milan have expressed admiration for Liverpool manager Rafa Benítez, strengthening reports linking him with the vacant Serie A post.

It is understood Benítez, who endured a massively disappointing campaign with the Reds last season, is poised to depart Anfield once the two parties have agreed on a severance package.

And Inter, who are without a manager following the exit of José Mourinho to Real Madrid, have indicated their interest in the Spaniard.

The question of who will fill the vacant Inter position has come under speculation of late, particularly since England boss Fabio Capello dismissed links with the Italian club.

But Benítez holds extra appeal for the Giuseppe Meazza outfit after guiding the Reds to victory over Inter's fierce rivals AC Milan in the 2005 UEFA Champions League final in Istanbul.

"We really like Rafa Benítez and he is in our favour since the Champions League final in Istanbul," Inter director Gabriele Orialli told Corriere dello Sport.

Benítez's future in doubt

2010-06-03T01:07:00.002+01:00

Sources understand that discussions are under way over the future of Rafa Benítez as Liverpool manager.

It is believed that the Anfield board are ready to try and replace the Spaniard in the wake of a dismal season for the Merseyside outfit.

Benítez only recently signed a new long-term contract at Liverpool and would be entitled to a significant severance package if he were to be shown the door.

The Reds, who have refused to comment on the reports, are said to be prepared to offer the former Valencia boss, who came to the club in the summer of 2004, a £3million pay-off to walk away.

There have been some unconfirmed rumours on Merseyside that the coach, who led the club to UEFA Champions League glory in 2005, has already been sacked.

Benítez's agent refused to discuss reports the Spaniard is set to depart for pastures new.

Manuel García Quilon said: "We don't know anything more than what's being said. We're not saying anything."

With owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks trying to sell the debt-ridden club, sources on Merseyside report that only around £5million is available to spend on new players, which would prevent significant strengthening.

The Reds boss, who is currently on holiday, has been the subject of intense speculation as to whether he will depart Anfield this summer, with Inter Milan reported to be interested in his services.

Liverpool were expected to mount

a serious challenge on all fronts in the season just finished after finishing second in the Premier League in the previous campaign and appearing to have a squad capable of delivering their first title since 1990.

However, the campaign was a huge disappointment, with the club finishing seventh in the Premier League, crashing out of the UEFA Champions League at the group stage and being dumped out of the FA Cup at the first hurdle by Reading, before a defeat at the hands of Atlético Madrid in the semi-finals in the Europa League.

In what has been a turbulent year, with the futures of key players Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres also in doubt, Liverpool's board may already be looking for a new manager to replace Benitez, with Turkey boss Guus Hiddink one man reportedly in the frame.

Red Knights shelve interest

2010-06-02T11:38:00.002+01:00

The Red Knights have confirmed they will not be making a bid for Manchester United this summer but remain committed to usurping the Glazers.

The green and gold campaign, which has seen supporters don the colours of the club's predecessors Newton Heath at matches in protest at the Glazer's running of the club, had seemed to gather momentum towards the end of the season.

However the American owners, who plunged the Red Devils into over £700million of debt when taking over in 2005, have insisted that the club is not for sale.

Rumours that a £1.5billion offer from a Far East consortium had been rejected by the Glazers last week has forced the Red Knights to temporarily withdraw their interest until a more realistic figure is reached - thought to be in the region of £1billion.

"The Red Knights remain committed to pursuing their efforts to try and help bring ownership of Manchester United to its supporters, and under a structure with materially less debt," said a statement on behalf of the group.

"As we have maintained however since news of our ambitions first emerged in March, we will only attempt to purchase the club at a sensible price, consistent with the long-term interests of the club.

"Persistent speculation in the media of inflated valuation aspirations has made our goals less attainable, as potential investors have strongly reinforced our views that we should not move forward at a price uneconomic for the future of the club."

Which Inter players will follow José?

2010-06-02T03:26:00.008+01:00

It's official: José Mourinho is the new Real Madrid coach. It was all too easily coming and now it's been made official that the Champions League winner with FC Porto and Inter will take over the coaching role at the world's biggest club.

One can expect a number of changes to be made at Real Madrid now that the 47-year-old has taken over and there is a possibility that a few players may be signed and a few let go. Mourinho likes to build his own squad with his own trusted players and it will be interesting to see what he does with what is an exceptionally talented bunch of footballers.

A number of Inter players, including right-back Maicon and striker Diego Milito, have been linked with a move to Real. But will they fit in at the Bernabéu? Will Inter let them go? Who else from the Beneamata will Mourinho be keen to take along with him to the Spanish capital? We now explore the possibilites here:

LÚCIO

The giant Brazilian centre-back was arguably the best central defender in the Champions League in 2009-2010 and as much as he was a rock at the back for Inter, he was a gem going on threatening runs into the opposition penalty area. José Mourinho signed him in the summer in order to have more attacking options from the back and Lúcio would be perfect for Real Madrid.

The Spanish giants do have two very good and promising central defenders in Pepe and Raúl Albiol but Lúcio's addition would be tremendously important. The experience of the 32-year-old and his big-stage success will bring a winning mentality to a defensive unit that does tend to disappoint from time to time.

Verdict: It is unlikely that Inter will let Lúcio go after just one season at the San Siro. He does have a very good relationship with Mourinho but that alone isn't going to be the decisive factor. Madrid may as well forget about signing the former Bayer Leverkusen and Bayern Munich centre-back.

MAICON

Real Madrid have been reportedly chasing the Brazilian international right-back since last season and this summer, Los Blancos do have a great chance of signing him. The 28-year-old is arguably the best and most balanced right-back on the planet and his arrival at the Bernabéu would be a perfect answer to Barcelona's Daniel Alves, who despite being the best attacking right-back in the world, tends to disappoint from time to time at the back. Maicon's marauding runs and quality and experience in defence will be assets for the capital giants.

Verdict: Maicon is certain to join Real Madrid in the summer. The Brazilian has already said that he would be willing to follow José Mourinho to the Bernabéu and if reports are to be believed, Madrid president Florentino Pérez has already kicked off negotiations to acquire the 28-year-old.

JAVIER ZANETTI

The Argentine international full-back is 36-years-old but as he showed in 2009-2010, he is one of the best ever players in his position - a legend. Zanetti is a player in whom Madrid might be interested in as he is not only versatile to play anywhere across the midfield, but he can also be a great option at left-back.

The former Banfield defender's experience and balanced approach will ease Madrid's defensive problems to a massive extent. Moreover, like Kaká, Zanetti is a 'classy' player and is hugely respected and admired in the world of football; his arrival will be a statement similar to the one by the arrival of Kaká last summer.

Verdict: Zanetti calls Inter his home, and howsoever Pérez may try, Zanetti is not going to leave his home.

ESTEBAN CAMBIASSO

Real Madrid are notoriously famous for signing back their young products once they have succeeded elsewhere. Esteban Cambiasso was signed by Real Madrid B in 1996 and after two years moved back to Argentina, and was recalled to the Spanish capital in 2002. He was released in 2004 and since then the defensive-minded central midfielder has gone from strength to strength.

Cambiasso has developed into a world class player in his position and given Mourinho's trust in the 29-year-old, Madrid may as well try to convince Cambiasso to rejoin them. However, Los Blancos don't exactly need the Argentine as they already have a whole host of quality defensive midfielders in Lassana Diarra, Xabi Alonso, Fernando Gago and Mahamadou Diarra.

Verdict: It is unlikely that Madrid will attempt to sign Cambiasso. Moreover, the player himself wouldn't like to leave the recently crowned European champions for a club that showed a lack of faith in him.

WESLEY SNEIJDER

Sneijder was kicked out of the Bernabéu last summer even though he didn't want to leave and his void couldn't be filled by Kaká. Sneijder is a world class footballer who showed this term that he alone can bear the responsibility in the attacking midfield department and connected the midfield with the attackline at Inter.

It was Mourinho who convinced the 25-year-old to sign for the Beneamata after much time and indeed the relationship between the duo had developed brilliantly. The Dutch international just had his best season with the Nerazzurri winning the treble and his return to form wouldn't have gone unnoticed by Florentino Pérez.

Verdict: Sneijder has already said that he is not going to leave Inter anytime soon and Pérez himself wouldn't fancy re-signing a player whom he ditched last summer.

DIEGO MILITO

Sources at Inter suggest that Mourinho has spoken to Diego Milito and his agent Fernando Hidalgo and that he will now plead his case to Real Madrid. Los Merengues do have enough firepower but in Milito they will have a world class striker who has proved his mettle in Europe. It was Mourinho who signed the 30-year-old from Genoa last summer and the Portuguese knows him inside out.

'El Principe' already has experience in La Liga from his time with Real Zaragoza and his movements, experience, subtlety and accuracy augmented by his big game success will be massively useful for the Madrid attackline that crumbled in the Champions League last-16.

Verdict: Milito intially said that he had important offers and then squashed any exit talks. However, it is very much likely that Mourinho will be trying to rope Milito to the Bernabéu, and if he pleads his case well to his 'Casa Blanca' bosses, the Argentine striker could be wearing the white of Real Madrid next campaign.

Hodgson - No Inter contact

2010-06-02T03:03:00.002+01:00

Fulham boss Roy Hodgson insists he has not been contacted about the chance to coach Inter Milan again, but would not rule out a return to the Giuseppe Meazza.

The Italian and European champions are on the look-out for a new coach after José Mourinho's departure for Real Madrid, with England boss Fabio Capello and Liverpool's Rafa Benítez thought to be among their targets.

Hodgson has also been linked with a return after coaching Inter from 1995 to 1997, leading them to the UEFA Cup final, before having a second stint as caretaker in 1999.

The much-travelled 62-year-old remains on their radar having transformed Fulham from Premier League strugglers into European qualifiers before steering them to this season's Europa League final.

But Hodgson insists there has been no contact yet from Inter and that he is in the dark over who will be the Nerazzurri's new boss.

"I don't know who could be the coach," he told Sky Sport Italia.

"I saw an interview where Capello said he wanted to stay with England, but in that type of situation it is impossible to know where the truth lies."

Agent - Maicon tops City list

2010-06-02T02:55:00.002+01:00

Maicon is top of Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini's summer wish-list, according to the Brazilian's agent.

The Inter Milan full-back has been linked with a move this summer having stood out in the Nerazzurri's treble-winning side this season.

Real Madrid have been reported as the Brazil international's most likely destination, with José Mourinho having just left Inter to take charge of the Spanish giants.

But Maicon's agent, Antonio Caliendo, claims Chelsea and Premier League rivals City are also firmly in the hunt.

Mancini signed the 28-year-old for Inter from Monaco in the summer of 2006 and Caliendo reckons a swoop for Maicon could spark City's latest spending spree.

"The situation is very clear - in life, everything is bought and sold, except love," he told calciomercato.it.

José unveils spending plans

2010-06-02T02:33:00.002+01:00

Real Madrid coach José Mourinho has already identified where he would like to strengthen his side ahead of the new season.

Mourinho was officially unveiled as the successor to Manuel Pellegrini at Santiago Bernabéu on Monday following his move from Inter Milan and the Portuguese tactician wasted no time in highlighting his spending plans.

The former Chelsea coach is likely to be handed the resources required to overturn Barcelona as Spain's premier side after finding themselves outdone by their bitter rivals in recent seasons.

Mourinho says his first alteration will be to the full-backs at the club, with the 47-year-old revealing his plans to tinker with the back four and bring in sufficient cover to provide him with different options.

He told Spanish radio station Cadena Ser: "Real has a right-back that I like very much in Sergio Ramos. But in my way of thinking, I believe he can be better as a central defender so we might need a right-back.

"I also would like to have an alternative left-back to Marcelo. Marcelo has his characteristics but Real needs a balanced squad, different players for each position. I would like a left-back that has different characteristics to Marcelo.

"Real must reach the final of each competition, regardless of whether we win or not, and for that reason, you must have different players for each position. Right now, I have a young team with quality players.

"Real always looks for excellence and they find quality players."

Mourinho also identified midfield as a potential problem area, but would not be drawn on who he would target.

Madrid brought in Kaká and Cristiano Ronaldo in big money moves last summer and the club are likely to eye similar high profile purchases this time out.

But Mourinho - who is believed to be keen on recruiting Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard from the Premier League - would not name who he felt was the best midfielder in the world, instead explaining the difficulty in trying to compare a player's performance in a foreign league.

He went on: "The midfield line is very important. It's difficult to find a complete player in central midfield. You have less players box to box. You have more number 10's and defensive midfielders.

"But it's very difficult to find a player in midfield right now that is complete. It's difficult to choose who the best is because they play in different football cultures.

"You can't say that (Chelsea's Frank) Lampard will score 30 goals in Serie A or in the Primera Division but in England he averages 28 goals per season, which is incredible.

"You cannot say either that (Barcelona pair) Xavi or Andrés Iniesta will perform with the same quality if they were to go to the Premier League or Serie A."

One player that could be exiting the Spanish capital is Guti after the 33-year-old revealed his desire to leave, before changing his mind three weeks later, saying he wanted to see out the remaining year on his contract.

Mourinho said he would only retain staff who were committed to the cause, adding: "I like Guti because he has talent. But if a player said a month ago that he had played his last game for Real, he cannot come a month later and say that he wants to stay.

"I like players that are committed to the club, the project, his team-mates and the coach and I don't like this doubt."

There had been doubts cost over Mourinho's personality with the Madrid 'Galacticos' upon his appointment, with some quarters suggesting the managers' direct style could lead to dressing room disharmony.

He quashed such claims, though - insisting he was a person easy to get along with. Mourinho said: "It can be very easy or very difficult to work with me. It's true that I see things black or white and those that are not with me are my enemies only in football terms as I respect everyone in life.

"If someone works hard and is aware that the club is more important than all of us, then it's very easy to work with me. If a person is egocentric and selfish, has no passion for football and doesn't like to work, it's difficult.

"Practically all my players have adapted well to me and, fortunately, I've been lucky in that respect because that has allowed us to win titles."

Mourinho - I'm here to win

2010-05-31T14:07:00.002+01:00

José Mourinho was officially unveiled as the new Real Madrid manager on Monday, and he set out his aims for success at the Bernabéu.

The extravagant Portuguese coach has experienced a meteoric rise in world football over the last decade, having enjoyed great success at his three former clubs Inter Milan, Chelsea and Porto. He clinched the treble last season with Inter, following a UEFA Champions League triumph over Bayern Munich and has now taken the reins with Los Merengues after being handed a mandate to improve the club's fortunes at home and abroad.

Mourinho, who has penned a four-year deal, described the 'void' of not having Real on his managerial CV, and is keen to transform the club and get everyone pulling together in the same direction.

"I don't know if I was born to coach Real Madrid but I was born to be a football coach," he said.

"I love important challenges. I am José Mourinho and I don't change. I arrive with all my qualities and my defects.

"My attraction to Real Madrid is due to its history, its frustrations in recent years and its expectations to win. It's a unique club and I believe that not to coach Real leaves a void in a coach's career.

"Luckily, I've had a beautiful career and it makes me proud to have come here.

"I am very enthusiastic. I want my players to think that way. The beauty is not so much to train or play at Real, but to win at Real Madrid.

Capello left with headache

2010-05-30T16:12:00.002+01:00

England's blushes were spared by two own-goals as they ground out a scarcely-deserved 2-1 friendly win over Japan in Austria in their last warm-up before the World Cup finals.

The match was the final chance for England hopefuls to impress boss Fabio Capello, but their best laid plans were sent into disarray after seven minutes when Japan took a shock lead as Marcus Tanaka lashed home into the bottom corner after evading Glen Johnson.

The strike left Capello's team on the back foot and they struggled to enforce their game on the Japanese, although, with Wayne Rooney the architect of every foray forward, England carved out a handful of half chances in spite of their lacklustre offering.

England improved dramatically after the break as the Italian boss made five changes, but an equaliser appeared to elude the Three Lions as Frank Lampard penalty, awarded after his free-kick had been handled, was excellently saved by keeper Eiji Kawashima in the 55th minute.

Luck proved to be on their side, though, as two own goals turned the match on its head.

Marcus Tanaka first hammered past his own goalkeeper from Joe Cole's delightful cross, before namesake Ashley, from the opposite flank, invited Yuji Nakazawa to prod into the bottom corner to leave England flying to South Africa on the back of a victory.

Mourinho named Real coach

2010-05-29T12:40:00.002+01:00

Real Madrid will present José Mourinho as the new manager of the Spanish club on Monday.

Real made the announcement on Friday, two days after confirming they had sacked coach Manuel Pellegrini.

It is understood Inter were originally demanding a €16m (£13.6m) severance fee to allow Mourinho to leave his post at the San Siro two years early.

But it is understood that Real president Florentino Pérez flew to Milan on Friday, where he agreed an €8million (£6.8m) deal with Inter chief Massimo Moratti to bring the Portuguese boss to the Bernabéu.

"The president Massimo Moratti and Florentino Pérez met this afternoon," said a statement on Inter's official website.

"In light of the excellent and constructive relations of friendship that exists between the two clubs, an agreement was reached on the contractual clause that binds José Mourinho to FC Internazionale.

"The time and the manner by which the agreement will be honoured has been defined.

"Massimo Moratti thanks Florentino Pérez for his willingness to join him in Milan and for his courtesy, which confirms, once again, the strong link between the two prestigious clubs."

Mourinho, who guided Inter to a record treble of trophies this season, will be presented as the new coach on Monday.

Hammers keen to bag Becks

2010-05-29T12:28:00.002+01:00

West Ham co-owner David Sullivan has confirmed he would 'love' to sign David Beckham, but admits Joe Cole has spurned a move.

The Hammers have suffered well-documented financial difficulties of late and are still in the process of cutting costs.

They would, however, be prepared to splash out on Beckham, who would command a substantial salary.

The former England captain is currently nursing an Achilles injury which has brought an end to his World Cup dream.

He is also still on the books of MLS outfit Los Angeles Galaxy, who he joined in 2007.

Backham has returned to Europe in each of the past two seasons, though, taking in loan spells at Italian giants AC Milan once the American season has come to a close.

Sullivan is hoping the former Manchester United ace can now be persuaded to have another shot at the Premier League, with the Hammers keen to bring him back to his East End roots.

"I'd love David Beckham," Sullivan told the Daily Mail.

"He has massive cult status in East London and still has a house near Bishop's Stortford, not far from our training ground. He's from Chingford, which is our heartland. We are the club of east London and Essex.

"If AC Milan didn't want him in January and if he still wanted to do it, I'd love to have him. He seems a remarkable professional."

English stars fit José bill

2010-05-27T17:37:00.003+01:00

José Mourinho has vowed to bring champagne football back to the Bernabéu as he aims to restore Real Madrid to former glories.

And the Portuguese coach has revealed that England stars Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard are the kind of players he will look for when shaping his Real side.

Manuel Pellegrini was sacked on Wednesday night after a trophyless first season with the Spanish giants, who have now won just two major trophies in seven years and have failed to get beyond the last 16 of the Champions League since 2004.

Having won the treble with Inter Milan, Mourinho is set to be unveiled as Real's new boss once he resolves contract negotiations with Inter, with whom he has a deal until June 2012.

The 47-year-old has already achieved much success with Porto, Chelsea and Inter teams built around reliable veterans, and midfield pair Gerrard (29) and Lampard (31) could fit the bill.

"I like players in the final part of their careers," Mourinho told Spanish sports daily AS.

"I love to have some players who are 33 or 34 years old. They are players that you buy and you won't recover this money, but if they give you good performances for two or three years you've got your money's worth.

"Both (Gerrard and Lampard) are great players who always give everything."

There have been doubts over whether Mourinho's style would suit Real having used defensive tactics to lead Porto, Chelsea and Inter to glory, but he has been keen to allay those concerns.

Asked about how Real fans expect to see both successful sides and entertaining football, he added: "Me as well, let them have no doubt about that.

"My Madrid will always play well, attack and be winners. However, there will be times when we will have to face the game in a different manner.

"Having said that, my team always goes out on the pitch with a clear idea: to win. If we are winning 3-1 and we only have 10 players on the pitch, then my players will have to sit back to defend. That's the way it is.

"It's very difficult during 90 minutes to always be better than your opponent. There's always a time in which you need to be a team and make sacrifices.

"It will be a balanced team," Mourinho continued.

"We will be a side with its own identity, we will not imitate anybody. The identity will be set by the players and me. For this we will have to work very hard."

Mourinho became just the third coach ever to win the European title with two different clubs after Inter beat Bayern Munich 2-0 in Saturday's Champions League final at the Bernabéu.

That also saw Inter become the first Italian team to win the Serie A, Coppa Italia and Champions League treble, and Mourinho is determined to continue his winning streak in Spain.

"I want to win the league because no player or coach has won the English, Italian and Spanish leagues," he said.

"I would like to be the first to do it, and also to be the first coach to lift three Champions Leagues with three different teams.

"I would also like to discover a player from the youth team and make him into a star.

"I have a lot of motivations. I don't want to lose humility, so I cannot come out and say that I'm going to win the league when you are up against a super team like Barcelona.

"Hopefully Valencia, Mallorca and Atlético, to name but a few sides, win more and we will see an even better championship this year," Mourinho added.

"It's going to be a great championship because Barcelona have signed very well and are going to be stronger than this season."

Messi magic mauls Arsenal

2010-04-07T00:33:00.003+01:00

Lionel Messi produced a mesmerising master-class to end Arsenal's UEFA Champions League dreams and send Barcelona into the semi-finals with a 6-3 aggregate success.

The prodigiously talented Argentinian international claimed a hat-trick of extraordinary quality in the space of 21 first-half minutes and added a fourth at the death after the Gunners had threatened to upset the odds by opening the scoring in Camp Nou.

Nicklas Bendtner's goal briefly gave Arsene Wenger's men the lead for the first time in the tie, but hopes of an improbable upset in the second leg were whisked away by the magical feet of Barcelona's diminutive genius.

Arsenal's defence were simply unable to cope with Messi as he levelled almost immediately before going on to score twice more before the interval and again in the second half to set up a semi-final showdown with Jose Mourinho's Inter Milan.

Manuel Almunia was called into action in the opening moments as he was forced to plunge to his left to tip away Messi's low shot from the edge of the box which was arrowing towards the bottom corner.

Barca, just as they had done in the first leg, dominated possession, but they were hit by a breakaway goal in the 19th minute with the pace of Theo Walcott again instrumental.

Hammers close on Brazilian

2010-01-31T15:27:00.002Z

Sources understand West Ham are closing in on the signing of Brazilian striker Ilan.

Hammers co-owner David Sullivan had claimed over the weekend that West Ham were closing in on a mystery Brazilian and it appears St Etienne's Ilan is the man in question.

Ilan is out of contract in the summer and St Etienne are believed to be willing to let him move on for a nominal fee.

West Ham have made their move for the 29-year-old as they look to bolster their attacking options before the transfer window slams shut on Monday.

The Hammers missed out to Spurs for Eidur Gudjohnsen and they have turned their attentions to Ilan.

Ilan will have no problem gaining a work permit as he holds an Italian passport and he is expected to fly into London on Monday to tie up the move to Upton Park.

City linked with Roma defender

2010-01-24T15:14:00.002Z

Roma defender Marco Motta could be on his way to Manchester City, according to the club's sporting director.

The 23-year-old right-back has fallen out of favour with Claudio Ranieri at the Stadio Olimpico and City boss Roberto Mancini is reportedly interested in capturing the Italian.

Roma sporting director Daniele Prade admits a deal could be done, although there are a few possible snags in any potential transfer.

"I spoke with Giuseppe Bozzo, agent of Motta, who confirmed the interest of Manchester City," he told Sky Italia.

"There is a possibility of a loan but I have not yet spoken with the English club.

"There are some things to consider because the player is in a co-ownership between Roma and Udinese."

Tevez haunts former club

2010-01-19T23:25:00.002Z

Carlos Tevez stole the show as Manchester City claimed a 2-1 win over Manchester United in the first leg of their Carling Cup semi-final.

Ryan Giggs bundled the Red Devils in front during a keenly-fought derby encounter, but Roberto Mancini's side hit back to edge a step closer to Wembley.

Eastlands was rocking prior to kick-off, but it did not take United long to dampen the raucous atmosphere.

The visitors settled much the quicker and went in front after only 17 minutes when Antonio Valencia delivered from the right and Giggs, after Wayne Rooney had prodded the ball off Shay Given's chest, tapped into an empty net. The Red Devils looked in full control of proceedings for much of the first half, but conceded a penalty three minutes before the interval when Rafael tugged on Craig Bellamy's shirt.

The infringement appeared to occur outside the box, but Bellamy tumbled inside the area and Tevez made no mistake from the spot as he blasted high into the net to haul the tie level.

The Argentina international was desperate to leave a lasting impression against his former employers, and he made sure he would be turning the game on its head after the break.

United failed to deal with a Bellamy corner on 65 minutes and once Vincent Kompany hooked the ball back into the box, Tevez was on hand to nod home from close range and send the blue half of Manchester into dreamland.

The friction around the City of Manchester Stadium as the lights were dimmed before kick-off for a rendition of 'Blue Moon' was only made even more intense by a couple of red flares in the visiting end that glowed United's response.

It set the scene for a scintillating encounter between the two halves of Manchester, one potless but loaded, the other using the vast array of trophies as insulation against a chilling debt piling up outside.

For a good half an hour, it appeared Sir Alex Ferguson had got his tactics spot-on.

Although Rooney was a lone frontman, the extra man further back meant United were able to dominate midfield.

Valencia hugged one flank, Giggs rolled back the years on the other, and between them Darren Fletcher, Anderson and Michael Carrick passed the ball around City heads going dizzy as they tried to keep up.

Rooney had already been denied from close range once when he got on the end of Patrice Evra's shot, only for rookie defender Dedryck Boyata to make the block.

So when a similar effort from the England star was turned away by Shay Given after Valencia had skipped past his marker, it was a first victory for the Irishman in what turned into a personal duel.

But the rebound rolled into the path of Giggs, the 36-year-old who has appeared in more of these matches than anyone else.

From three yards Giggs could not miss. His first derby goal since 1996.

At that stage, City looked as though they were going to be completely outplayed, but slowly the tide began to turn.

Tevez wasted a glorious chance when Shaun Wright-Phillips picked him out with a superb curling cross, then Micah Richards thudded a headed into Boyata's back after Bellamy had been the provider.

In the end, City needed a controversial penalty to get their equaliser. Controversial in the sense Rafael was outside the area when he began an extended tug of Bellamy's shirt.

The offence was clear enough and as the Brazilian teenager - the one youngster Ferguson eventually picked - was inside the box when he let go, referee Mike Dean felt a spot-kick was the suitable punishment.

Edwin van der Sar used all his experience to try to put Tevez off. But the former United man was not having any off it and eventually stepped up to confidently ram home the penalty into the top of the net.

Tevez had enough dignity not to celebrate directly in front of the fans who bellowed 'Fergie, sign him up' from the Stretford End last year.

But the sight of Gary Neville was too much to resist and Tevez delivered a 'shut your mouth' hand gesture to his former skipper, who backed Ferguson's decision to get rid of the Argentinian.

For all the understandable focus on Tevez, the most influential man on the pitch was Given, who turned away yet another point-blank effort when Giggs got his head to Rooney's deep cross.

The worth of that save did not become apparent until City's next attack when Kompany hooked a wayward Pablo Zabaleta shot straight onto Tevez's head.

As he scored and Eastlands erupted, the striker this time immediately raced to the home dug-out and cupped his ears, in exactly the same manner he did when he scored for United in a Premier League meeting between these two sides late last season, when the Old Trafford crowd's demand for him to stay was at its peak.

Just yards away, Ferguson stared straight ahead, chewing his gum furiously. Again the chant was 'sign him up'. This time it was City doing the singing.

Tevez's work was done. Given still had more to do. Rooney was denied three more times as United laid siege at the end looking for an equaliser.

They still have another 90 minutes to get one. But Tevez will want more as well.

Campbell return confirmed

2010-01-16T12:58:00.002Z

Arsenal have confirmed that Sol Campbell has rejoined the club on a deal which will run until the end of the season.

The 35-year-old left the Gunners for Portsmouth in 2006, but has now completed a sensational return to Emirates Stadium.

The experienced centre-half turned out for Arsenal in a midweek reserve match against West Ham and revealed then that he hoped an agreement could be reached.

He has been granted his wish, but the England international is not expected to feature in Arsene Wenger's plans for the trip to Bolton on Sunday.

Campbell joins the Gunners as a free agent, having quit League Two outfit Notts County in September 2009 after making just one appearance for the club.

"We are delighted to have signed Sol Campbell until the end of the season," Wenger said.

"For both club and country, Sol's career just speaks for itself. He is a hugely experienced and intelligent footballer, who will bring a great amount of quality and knowledge to our squad. Sol as a player and a person will be an enormous asset to us.

"Sol has been training with us since September and during this time he has shown he still has the required fitness, hunger and passion to compete at the top level."

Campbell will be asked to provide some veteran leadership to the Gunners as they seek to keep pace with Chelsea and Manchester United in the battle for the Premier League title.

"I'm so happy to be rejoining Arsenal," Campbell said.

"I have many great memories from being here before and still have many friends at the club.

"I've been working very hard at the Arsenal training ground, I feel really good at the moment and I'm ready to give my all. We're in a strong position and I want to help Arsenal be successful this season."

Canales open to Prem move

2010-01-16T12:50:00.002Z

Racing Santander midfielder Sergio Canales has left the door open for English clubs to come knocking for his services.

The 18-year-old has been in the headlines this week after attracting interest from Europe's elite following four goals in his last three outings, including a brace against Sevilla.

With his contract set to expire in the summer, Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal have been alerted by his exploits and the Spanish playmaker is open to move abroad.

"The English league along with the Spanish is the best in the world. Both attract me," Canales told The Independant.

Canales' father, who acts as his agent, is thought to be travelling to London next week to speak with clubs about a proposed switch, however, Santander insist a verbal agreement to stay is in place.

English clubs would face stiff competition from Barcelona and Real Madrid who are both monitoring his situation and may be more likely destinations for the teenager.

Sandro's Spurs switch stalls

2010-01-15T16:21:00.002Z

Sandro's proposed move to Tottenham looks to be off after Internacional stated he would not be leaving this month.

Spurs have bee chasing the 20-year-old since last summer and he was expected to move to White Hart Lane during the current transfer window.

But problems appear to have arisen over a proposed link-up between the two clubs.

"Sandro is not moving in this transfer window," Inter's vice-president Fernando Carvalho told Radio Gaucho.

"The partnership with Tottenham has not been finalised, there are a number of details which we did not sign to.

"Sandro's exit could only have happened if this was in place.

"He will now play in the Libertadores for Inter, it may come in August that he will move to Europe - but that could be true of any of our players."

Sandro's agent Luiz Chignoli also denied reports in England that he had agreed terms with Spurs over the move.

"It is not true," he insisted.

"The English press have invented that Sandro has had medicals in England too."

United announce £48m profit

2010-01-11T15:47:00.002Z

Manchester United have reported pre-tax profits of £48.2million for the year to June 30th 2009 and have also announced plans to raise £500million.

The sale of Cristiano Ronaldo to Real Madrid for £80million in the summer was included in the profits as was the £41.9million paid out in interest on the huge loan of £509.5million used to help fund the Glazer's takeover of the club in 2005.

The club also announced that turnover was up from £80.4million in 2008 to £91.3million a year later.

In order to deal with the crippling debt at Old Trafford the champions have announced plans for a bond scheme to be introduced in a bid to raise £500million to replace some of the existing debt.

This would enable institutions or private investors to invest in the club and would offer the club more generous interests rates compared to the 14 per cent they are currently paying.

Without the world record sale of Ronaldo, the Red Devils would have been reporting a loss of £31.8million pounds, a situation that clearly is unsustainable over the long term, hence the bonds issue.

"Manchester United today announced that it will be seeking to raise approximately £500million aggregate principal amount from an offering of senior secured notes due 2017," a United statement said.

"The notes, whose proceeds will be used to refinance existing debt secured against the club, will be issued by MU Finance plc."

United have also announced that American finance giant Aon will take over as the team's primary shirt sponsor next year bringing in increased guaranteed income.

However that has not stopped supporters from being extremely concerned with the club's somewhat perilous financial situation amid mounting interest rates.

Togo face disqualification

2010-01-11T15:39:00.002Z

Togo face disqualification from the African Cup of Nations if they do not show up for their game on Monday, although the country's PM says they have already withdrawn.

The Togo squad left Angola for their homeland on Sunday after Friday's gun attack on their team bus left three people dead.

There has since been confusion as to whether Togo will now be competing in the tournament, with a suggestion the squad may return at a later stage.

Togo's opponents Ghana have been told to proceed as if Monday's Group B match in Cabinda - scheduled to kick off at 18.30 GMT - is still going ahead, with a senior Confederation of African Football (CAF) official saying Togo will be disqualified if they do not turn up.

He said: "We have not heard anything official from them. They have never officially told us they are not going to play or they are going to play. We are only hearing from them in the media.

"The referee has been ordered to start the match and if Togo are not there, then they will be declared to have withdrawn and be disqualified."

It is not clear whether Ghana will have to go through the pretence of preparing for the match and taking to the pitch. A decision will be made closer to the kick-off, and official added.

But whatever sanctions CAF threaten, Togo's Prime Minister Gilbert Huongbo said on Monday that the country did not want to re-enter the tournament.

Becks - One game at a time

2010-01-07T09:13:00.002Z

David Beckham knows he must continue to perform at the highest level to secure his place in England's World Cup squad.

The veteran midfielder made a successful second debut for AC Milan following his loan move from LA Galaxy in front of watching national team boss Fabio Capello.

Former Manchester United and Real Madrid ace Beckham made a 75-minute outing as the Rossoneri remained second in Serie A with a 5-2 victory over Genoa.

Capello prefers to select players who are in action regularly and on top form, and with South Africa 2010 looming on the horizon, Beckham knows he cannot allow his standards to slip.

"I didn't know he was there, I only found out afterwards," the former England captain said.

"But he loves football

and he'll go to every game possible. I know he visits all of the Premier League games and, obviously being in Italy over the Christmas period, he was able to come to this game.

"I think it's always important that I work hard and perform well and I felt that I did that but it's just one game."

Beckham played a starring role in the win at the San Siro, starting in attack before moving into midfield in the second half and admitted he had not anticipated an immediate bow.

"I didn't expect to start, but obviously with the injuries we got during the week, I had to," Beckham added.

"I was happy. I was happy with the game and happy with the win and it's just great to be back. It felt great."

Beckham insisted there were no hard feelings after being denied the chance to score after taking the ball when Milan were awarded a third penalty.

However, Ronaldinho, who had scored one and missed the other from the spot, took the ball off him before captain Massimo Ambrosini gave it to Klaas-Jan Huntelaar, who made no mistake.

And the midfielder moved to play down any suggestions of a disagreement with his team-mates.

"No, I didn't desperately want to take it," he said.

"To be honest, I think it's always important that the penalty taker always takes the penalties and that's why I gave the ball back to Ronaldinho.

"I think that's always the way it should be, but then he gave it to Klaas and he took it, but it's not important."

PFA blast Pompey troubles

2010-01-07T08:55:00.003Z

Portsmouth have been accused of damaging the integrity of the game, after the club failed to pay their players yet again.

Pompey's players are still waiting to be paid December's wages with the club failing to fulfill their promise of when the money would be transferred into their bank accounts.

The payments were due to be paid initially on New Year's Eve before it was delayed to Tuesday, then Wednesday with the club now claiming the players will get their wages on Thursday.

While the non-playing staff have been paid, the delays have provoked anger with the Professional Footballer's Association.

Nick Cusack, the senior executive of the PFA, believes Portsmouth's financial problems are not only damaging the club, but also the game as a whole.

"When two teams take the field, it's 11 versus 11 and you would expect all 22 players to have been paid," Cusack told the Daily Express. "If one set of 11 has not [been paid] then that can call into question the commitment of that team and therefore the integrity of the game itself."

City post massive losses

2010-01-06T14:39:00.002Z

Premier League big-spenders Manchester City have reported a loss of £92.6million, one of the biggest in British football history.

City have their financial results up to the end of May 2009, which means last summer's significant financial outlay has not been included.

The figures show the huge amount invested by Sheikh Mansour since he bought the Eastlands outfit from Thaksin Shinawatra in September 2008.

The figures do include the previous year's business, when City smashed the British trasnfer record to bring Brazilian superstar Robinho to the club for £32.5million.

Another Brazilian, Jo, also arrived although he has since joined Everton on loan, while Shay Given and Craig Bellamy were among a clutch of top-name players who were brought in 12 months ago.

Not included in the amounts are the summer signings by former boss Mark Hughes, which included Carlos Tévez, Emmanuel Adebayor, Roque Santa Cruz, Kolo Touré and Joleon Lescott.

Since then, of course, Hughes has lost his job and been replaced by Roberto Mancini, who could invest further in January.

City's chief financial and administration officer Graham Wallace said:

"The financial results reflect a period of rapid change at the club, the result of long-term planning and investment by the board and our owners, to create a sustainable business in the future.

"We have always said that this transformation will take a number of years and these figures reflect that."

On a normal business level, there have been areas of growth.

Turnover increased by six per cent to £87million, attendance rose to 42,890 from an average of 42,081 in the previous season, with ticketing revenues ahead by £1.8million, mainly as a result of the extended UEFA Cup run.

Television revenues rose by 12 per cent to £48.3million, also as a result of UEFA Cup performance.

While City's playing squad is the obvious example of money being poured in from Abu Dhabi, there have been other, less noticeable costs.

Hughes' demands to substantially improve the Carrington training ground were met. There were additional infrastructure costs, website and technology applications and staffing levels also went up.

For Sheikh Mansour and chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak, these were essential in the growth of what was a middle-ranking Premier League outfit to one, by their own admission, which is expected to secure a top four spot this season and win the title - for the first time since 1989 - next.

Just as Roman Abramovich has done at Chelsea, Sheikh Mansour has turned the £304.9million shareholder loans he made to City into equity.

He has also purchased further shares to a value of £89.6million in a what is termed as a "show of commitment" to City.

"The owners ' decision to convert debt into equity is in line with their previous-stated financial strategy and is fantastic news for supporters of Manchester City, whose club is now on a secure financial foundation that gives a tremendous platform to build from in future years," added Wallace.

Mourinho confirms Vieira exit

2010-01-06T14:32:00.002Z

Inter Milan boss José Mourinho has confirmed that Manchester City target Patrick Vieira has played his last game for the club.

The France international, who hinted earlier on Wednesday that he was set to seal a move to Eastlands, played the full 90 minutes of Inter's 1-0 Serie A success over Chievo.

Mourinho told reporters after the match that the former Arsenal ace was now heading for the exit door and expects him to return to the Premier League.

City boss Roberto Mancini has been strongly linked with a move for the talented midfielder, who he knows well from his stint at the helm of the Nerazzurri.

Vieira is eager to play regular football over the coming months as he looks to secure a place in France's World Cup squad for the finals in South Africa.

Mourinho told Sky Italia: "Patrick will say goodbye to us.

"He will surely miss us. I don't know where he will go. The club thought not to turn down his request to leave. This would have been the last year of his contract.

"Where he will go? I said I don't know. In my opinion he will go to England, even if there is the possibility also he could go to France.

"I wish him every happiness."

Wenger - Vieira would succeed

2010-01-05T17:21:00.002Z

Arsenal boss Arsène Wenger believes Patrick Vieira can still prove a success in the Premier League, but admits he would be shocked to see the midfielder at Manchester City.

The French duo won three English top-flight titles and four FA Cups together with the Gunners before Vieira left for Juventus in 2005 in the pursuit of UEFA Champions League glory.

But the now 33-year-old moved to Inter Milan after just one season where he has since become seemingly surplus to the requirements of manager José Mourinho.

Wenger was linked with a bid for Vieira last summer, but he cooled his interest and the midfield general is now reportedly on the verge of a reunion with City boss Mancini, the man who signed him at Inter.

Pompey suffer new blow

2009-12-30T14:33:00.002Z

Portsmouth have been issued with a winding-up petition by HM Revenue & Customs.

The cash-strapped club have endured a miserable season on and off the field this term with Pompey sitting rock bottom of the table and having a transfer embargo placed on them due to their financial problems.

Players and staff have seen their wages delayed twice already this year as Pompey look to pay off the debts hanging over the club.

Portsmouth are believed to owe over £10million in fees to other English clubs and it has been suggested they will have to sell more of their stars to pay off the debt.

The news that a winding-up petition has been issued will raise doubts over the long-term future of the club as they try to find the funds to keep Pompey running.

Megson axed by Bolton

2009-12-30T14:26:00.002Z

Bolton Wanderers have confirmed Gary Megson has been sacked as manager with the club in the Premier League relegation zone.

Speculation about Megson's future at the Reebok Stadium had intensified following the 2-2 draw at home to Hull City on Tuesday night.

The Trotters threw away a two-goal lead against their relegation rivals and fans called for Megson to be dismissed at the final whistle.

Megson has been unable to win over the Bolton faithful since being appointed manager in October 2007, just a few weeks after he had taken charge of Leicester City.

During his first season, he steered the club to survival and last term Bolton finished the campaign in 13th place.

However, the team have struggled for consistency this season and the stalemate with Hull left Bolton inside the bottom three due to their inferior goal difference.

With the transfer window about to open, Bolton have decided to act now and have placed Chris Evans and Steve Wigley in caretaker charge ahead of Saturday's FA Cup third-round tie against Lincoln City.

Ronaldo eyes Barca final

2009-12-30T01:39:00.002Z

Real Madrid superstar Cristiano Ronaldo would love to take on Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League final.

The world's most expensive player is keen to topple the European champions and sees no better venue than on home soil.

The final of this season's tournament takes place at Real's Santiago Bernabeu on 22nd May and Ronaldo hopes Real and Barca will be the teams on show.

Pep Guardiola's troops got the better of Manchester United in last season's final and he thinks it would be a great clash for the two teams to meet in Spain's capital.

"It would be a spectacle to be able to play the final in the Santiago Bernabeu," he told Correio da Manha.

"As much for the players as for the fans. I hope to meet Barcelona in this final and beat them."

Ronaldo is now back to his best after being hampered by an ankle injury for much of the first half of the season.

The former Manchester United winger is now hoping to stay injury free after making a successful comeback from the problem.

"I hope I don't have more injuries and so can help Real Madrid win all the competitions they are in this season," he added.

"And not just for next year but also for the future.

"I am full of confidence that we are going to get much better in the rest of the season."

Edwin given leave by United

2009-12-29T14:06:00.003Z

Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed Edwin van der Sar is on compassionate leave after the Manchester United goalkeeper's wife suffered a brain haemorrhage.

Van der Sar has been back to his native Netherlands to receive treatment on a knee injury from the Holland team doctor over the Christmas period.

However, the veteran shot-stopper's wife Annemarie van Kesteren was taken to hospital last Wednesday after collapsing at home.

United boss Ferguson says there is no need for Van der Sar, who has yet to decide whether to retire at the end of the season, to return to the club until his wife's condition improves.

Ferguson said: "Annemarie had a problem over in Holland a week ago and has been admitted to hospital.

"That is the best place for her to be. They have examined her twice and are trying to get to the root of it.

"I have told Edwin to stay over there. There is no point in him being here.

"The best thing is for him to be with his wife. Hopefully she will make a good recovery."

During Van der Sar's recent absence from the United team due to his knee injury, Ferguson has preferred Tomasz Kuszczak in goal ahead of Ben Foster.

Real reject buy-out reports

2009-12-29T13:53:00.003Z

Real Madrid have rejected reports that Manchester City owner Sheikh Mansour has made an astronomical offer to buy the club.

It has been suggested in Spain that the Eastlands supremo had tabled an offer of one billion euros for the nine-times European champions.

The Santiago Bernabeu giants have issued a statement which confirms club president Florentino Perez is friends with the Sheikh, but that no proposal is on the table.

"Real Madrid wishes to inform: that Real Madrid president Mr. Florentino Perez has had a great friendship for many years with His Highness, Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan," read a statement on the club's official website.

"And that the so-called interest and the existence of any offer to acquire Real Madrid are false.

"His Highness has always shown tremendous respect for the club and understands that Real Madrid belongs to its members."

Sheikh Mansour is president of Abu Dhabi's Al Jazira Club, where he set up a twinning agreement with the Spanish giants in 2005.

José - I want to be back

2009-12-29T13:38:00.002Z

José Mourinho has reiterated his wish to manage in the Premier League again, but has stressed he will not leave Inter Milan before the end of the season.

The former Chelsea boss was back at Stamford Bridge on Monday as he watched his old club battle back from behind to beat local rivals Fulham 2-1.

Mourinho left the current Premier League leaders in September 2007 after three trophy-leaden years and he has regularly been linked with a return to England.

Manchester City and reigning champions United have been mooted as possible admirers of the Portuguese, who confirmed his intention to come back in the future.

"I want to be back," Mourinho told The Sun. "I'm not the kind of guy to keep his feelings hidden.

"I have always said the same - I love it here, I love it here, I love it here.

"I won two titles in three years and all the other cups too. I was very successful so it is normal that other clubs here will want me.

"I won two titles with Porto, two with Chelsea and now I want to make it two, plus two, plus two by winning it again with Inter. That would be special.

"But yes, I believe I will be back one day. I don't leave any club mid-season to go to another. So until the end of the season, there's no chance that I will leave Inter."

Mourinho enjoyed his return to Stamford Bridge ahead of current club Inter's last 16 meeting with Chelsea in the UEFA Champions League.

He added: "I feel the love. I really do - and it is very emotional.

"It is only the second time I have been back to London since I left and it's the first time I have been back to Stamford Bridge.

"And I must say it's good to be back - I have seen so many friends.

"I left it so long because I didn't want to be a factor in disturbing things here. They seemed to be changing coaches every three months and I did not like that and I did not want to be seen to be interfering or causing problems.

"I also stayed away because it was painful to return - I had such great times here, I loved it here and I never wanted to leave.

"It hurt to go and so it was always going to be difficult to come back again.

"And I will be back again soon because we have the Champions League in a couple of months and that has given me the chance, the opportunity to come over to see everyone I worked with, but also to watch Chelsea."

Premier League round-up

2009-12-28T19:22:00.002Z

Chelsea survived a scare at home to Fulham to open up a five-point gap at the top of the Premier League table as Tottenham Hotspur move into the UEFA Champions League positions.

Birmingham City equalled a club record of 11 top-flight matches unbeaten as Cameron Jerome's goal saw off Stoke City away from home.

Everton secured a first win in eight league matches after beating 10-man Burnley, but Sunderland's wait for a victory goes on after twice throwing away the lead at Blackburn Rovers.

Leaders Chelsea were indebted to a Chris Smalling own goal to beat Fulham 2-1 at Stamford Bridge as Carlo Ancelotti's men were forced to recover from conceding an early goal.

Tottenham boosted their Champions League hopes, and kept a fourth clean sheet in a row in the process, after a 2-0 home success over London rivals West Ham United.
Scores:
Tottenham 2-0 West Ham
Blackburn 2-2 Sunderland
Chelsea 2-1 Fulham
Everton 2-0 Burnley
Stoke 0-1 Birmingham
Wolves vs. Man City

Toni wants Roma move

2009-12-28T18:53:00.002Z

Bayern Munich striker Luca Toni says he wants to make a return to Italy with Serie A side Roma.

The 32-year-old has been subject to extensive transfer speculation and the World Cup winner says he wants to join Claudio Ranieri's side.

Toni has found himself out of favour at Bayern this season and wants to complete a move to the Stadio Olimpico in a bid to resurrect his career.

The former Fiorentina man fears his chances of playing in next summer's World Cup will be damaged if he does not play regular first-team football.

He told Corriere dello Sport: "I want to go to Roma. These are crucial hours to define my future and I choose Roma.

"I don't take into consideration any other club. Now it's up to the club and my agent to close this transfer.

"The national team is a second issue, because I have to play with continuity. I'm thinking only about this, playing in a club that will give me the opportunity to show what player I am."

Toni hopes to wrap up a move as soon as the January transfer window reopens as Ranieri's side look to secure a Champions League place.

The Italian signed for Bayern in 2007 and enjoyed a prolific first season in Germany, notching 39 goals in 46 matches.

He has since fallen out of favour though following a bust-up with coach Louis van Gaal and believes a move back to his native land can revive his career.

He added: "I think it could be my new starting point: some things don't happen by accident."

Bellamy committed to City

2009-12-28T12:07:00.002Z

Craig Bellamy has insisted he has no problem with Roberto Mancini and vowed to stay at Manchester City.

Some reports have suggested that the Welsh striker was so angry with the club's decision to axe manager Mark Hughes that he handed in a transfer request.

The likes of Arsenal and Tottenham have already been linked with winter moves for Bellamy but he has now attempted to put an end to the speculation surrounding his future.

Bellamy, who started the Boxing Day victory over Stoke on the substitute's bench, has given his backing to the new man in charge and ruled out a January departure.

"I want to stay and I am going to stay. I am committed to that. I am committed to Man City," he said in the Daily Mirror.

"I have bought into the idea of where Man City is going to go and I am a huge part of where it is at this stage.

"I have no problem with Mancini. It's not his problem he's here. What happened to Mark Hughes has got nothing to do with him.

"I hope Mancini will stay for a long time because I am from the mould of thinking stability is the key to success.

"I hope he gets a number of years to do it and, as long as I last, I will give my all for him."

United enter Chiellini race

2009-12-27T21:20:00.003Z

Manchester United are believed to have entered the race to sign Juventus ace Giorgio Chiellini.

United have reportedly joined their Manchester rivals in the quest to sign the talented Italian defender.

New City boss Roberto Mancini is understood to have listed the £12million-rated star as a top priority in the transfer window.

But with United hit by injuries at the back, he faces stiff competition to land his target.

Chiellini has already confessed he feels unsettled at Juventus and has hinted at a move away from Serie A.

The 25-year-old, though, is still a key figure at the Italian club according to his agent Davide Lippe.

"It will be difficult for such an important player to leave Juventus but we will see what happens in January," he told News of the World.

Lippe said that, so far, he has had no contact from the new City coach but that a move to Manchester was not completely out of the question.

"I haven't heard from Mancini but I couldn't rule out a move to Manchester," he said.

City - We did not lie to fans

2009-12-22T18:04:00.003Z

Manchester City have insisted they did not lie to fans over when they approached Roberto Mancini to replace Mark Hughes.

The move comes after reports on Tuesday claimed the club had been caught out trying to disguise when Mancini was first approached.

The Italian said at a press conference on Monday that he had met chairman Khaldoon al-Mubarak two weeks ago, while club chief executive Garry Cook said negotiations with Mancini only began on Thursday - two days before Hughes was sacked.

Cook also stated that the decision to consider replacing Hughes was taken three weeks ago.

To clarify the situation, City have issued a statement on Tuesday saying Cook "absolutely" did not lie to fans.

The statement said: "Yesterday, CEO Garry Cook and new manager Roberto Mancini together took to the stage to give journalists and, more importantly, our fans the complete picture of the events of the part few days and week.

"The outcome was characterised in a way which was suggested that the football club and Garry Cook has lied to its fans. Manchester City Football Club would like to point out that this is absolutely not the case."

The statement points out that Cook stated during Monday's press conference that "the decision to look at managerial options was taken only three weeks ago after the Hull game, but I think it is important for people to know that Roberto was only offered the job after the Spurs game; we negotiated on Thursday and finalised his agreement on Friday."

Mancini, when questioned when he was first contacted by the club, replied: "Two weeks ago, I met Khaldoon for the first time. But they called me the day after the Tottenham game. Not before."

The statement adds: "In light of the fact that both Garry Cook's and Roberto Mancini's responses are consistent, it is with some surprise that we and our fans read some of today's reporting."

Wenger hopes for RVP surprise

2009-12-22T15:24:00.002Z

Arsène Wenger is hoping for a 'good surprise' regarding Robin van Persie's comeback after doctors confirmed the Arsenal striker's career is not at risk.

Van Persie damaged ankle ligaments playing in the Netherlands' friendly against Italy in November and he was ruled out until the spring.

The former Feyenoord ace underwent an operation earlier this month and there are no fears for the 26-year-old's long-term playing career.

Though Van Persie was initially ruled out for four months upon learning the full extent of the injury, it is now likely to be May before he is ready to return.

However, Gunners boss Wenger is keeping his fingers crossed that Van Persie may be back in April to take part in the final weeks of the Premier League season.

"It's virtually the rest of the season," admitted Wenger. "I haven't personally said that to Robin.

"Hopefully, we'll have a good surprise."

Prior to his injury, Van Persie had scored seven goals in 11 Premier League appearances this season as Arsenal aim to win a trophy for this first time since 2005.

Mancini urges Robinho stay

2009-12-22T13:22:00.002Z

Roberto Mancini wants Robinho to remain at Eastlands and help to 'write the history' of Manchester City.

The Brazilian has been strongly linked with a move to Barcelona over recent months and has admitted that he will seek talks with Mancini in an effort to establish what his plans are for the future.

City officially unveiled their new boss on Monday, with Mark Hughes relieved of his duties following Saturday's 4-3 victory over Sunderland.

Mancini has wasted no time in settling out his ambitions, with UEFA Champions League qualification at the top of the Italian's agenda.

He is also keen to build bridges with some of City's biggest names, with a number of first-team players expressing their disappointment at Hughes' departure.

While Robinho was not among them, his future remains the subject of much conjecture and Mancini has revealed that he will do all he can to persuade the Samba star to stay put.

"Robinho is a fantastic player," he said.

"But for a big player like him, it is important to make the history of a club.

"I played at Sampdoria for 15 years. I wrote the history. It is important. Robinho can do that here."

Mancini's first game in charge of City will be against Stoke on Boxing Day, giving him ample opportunity to have a good look at his squad before selecting his starting XI.

The former Lazio and Inter Milan boss admits he will be looking to add to his squad during the January transfer window, regardless of the talent already available, but insists he will not be making recruitment decisions by himself.

"In Italy, it is not just the manager who decides on players, it is also the director of football," he said.

"I will speak with Garry (Cook, chief executive) and Brian (Kidd, assistant manager).

"Together we will decide who we need. It is no problem. The most important thing is for City to win, now and in the future."

I'M BACK!

2009-12-22T13:20:00.000Z

After Months out from publishing. I have returned :D

Tevez signs City deal

2009-07-14T16:57:00.003+01:00

Carlos Tevez has completed his move to Manchester City on a five-year contract after passing medical at Eastlands.

The 25-year-old left City's fierce rivals Manchester United earlier in the summer after a successful two-year loan with the Premier League champions.

United were keen to keep the Argentina international on a permanent basis but he opted to join City in order to obtain regular first-team football.

Tevez will be officially unveiled on Tuesday afternoon at a press conference.

He will then fly to South Africa with his new team-mates on Wednesday for a three-match pre-season tour.

Villarreal reject Rossi bid

2009-07-08T13:15:00.003+01:00

Villarreal have rejected an offer from Manchester City for striker Giuseppe Rossi according to reports in Spain.

The 22-year-old has a €40million minimum release fee clause in his contract and it is believed that City's bid came well below that valuation.

The Italy international arrived in Spain from City's neighbours Manchester United in the summer of 2007 and it is said that should Villarreal wish to sell, the Premier League champions have first option on the player.

The diminutive forward was highly rated at Old Trafford and that has been backed up by some outstanding performances for the Spaniards over the past two seasons.

Rossi's agent Federico Pastorello denies that a bid has been lodged by the Eastlands club and indicates that the American-born youngster is almost certain to remain at El Madrigal next term.

"Nobody has offered the going price and I am 99 per cent certain the player will be with Villarreal next season," he said.

"Rossi is happy in Villarreal and would only consider leaving for one of Europe's six big clubs."

Rossi was one of only a few Italian players to come out of the recent Confederations Cup campaign with any credit after he helped himself to two goals from two starts.

It is that kind of form which has earmaked him as a possible target for a number of clubs around Europe but the former Parma youngster is said to be ready to sit down and discuss a new contract at Villarreal despite his current deal running until 2012.

Ronaldo's unveiling at Real Madrid

2009-07-07T17:58:00.004+01:00

Chelsea agree Zhirkov deal

2009-07-06T14:30:00.002+01:00

Chelsea have reached an agreement with CSKA Moscow to sign Russian wing-back Yuri Zhirkov.

The left-sided player, who shot to prominence with his performance at Euro 2008, has long been linked with a move to one of Europe's top clubs.

Barcelona were understood to be interested earlier in the summer before Chelsea emerged as the front-runners for his signature.

He flew in to London over the weekend, later stating that it would be 'inexcusable' for him to let such an oportunity pass.

New manager Carlo Ancelotti has now confirmed the switch will go ahead, with the 25-year-old set to become Chelsea's third signing of the window.

Speaking at his first press conference, Ancelotti said: "Zhirkov, Sturridge - these are Chelsea players.

"Zhirkov is naturally on the left. I think he can do all the work and can play in defence and in between."

Chelsea later clarified that the deal had not quite been finalised, with Zhirkov still needing to pass his medical and agree personal terms.

Daniel Sturridge joined the Blues from Manchester City last week, while young goalkeeper Ross Turnbull also arrived from Middlesbrough.

Carlo coy on transfer targets

2009-07-06T14:18:00.002+01:00

Carlo Ancelotti has made it clear that he is looking forward to working with Didier Drogba, while he has refused to be drawn on the identity of Chelsea's transfer targets.

The Italian has taken charge at Stamford Bridge this summer after leaving his role as AC Milan manager at the end of last season.

He has been linked with moves for some of his former players, including striker Alexandre Pato and midfielder Andrea Pirlo.

The Blues have already signed Yuri Zhirkov, Daniel Sturridge and Ross Turnbull and Ancelotti has stayed quiet on his plans for further recruitment.

He said: "I don't want to speak the names of the players.

"The club control the market, Pato and Pirlo are Milan players.

" There has been speculation about the future of Didier Drogba but Ancelotti is an admirer of the Ivory Coast international and intends to keep him.

"Drogba is a great striker and I want to use his quality for the team," he explained.

"He is strong but he also has technical quality." Ancelotti is also set to hold talks with Andriy Shevchenko who spent last season on loan with the manager at Milan.

He struggled to make much of an impact and, having also found it difficult to find his best form at Chelsea, it is unclear where he will ply his trade this term.

"Shevchenko is a Chelsea player and I want to speak with him," said Ancelotti.

"Shevchenko will come in London on July 9 and will work with us in pre-season and at this moment we speak with him to find the right solution for us.

Florentino's fantasy team

2009-07-04T11:24:00.006+01:00

Real Madrid's stunning summer spending spree reached more than £180million in just one month of Florentino Perez returning to the club as president.

And the 62-year-old - who oversaw the first era of the Galacticos when bringing the likes of Beckham, Ronaldo, Zidane and Figo to the Bernabeu earlier this decade - insists there are more stars to come.

The latest is Karim Benzema, lured by the Spanish side from under the noses of Manchester United, but word is that Liverpool duo Xabi Alonso and Alvaro Arbeloa are ready to sign - as Valencia midfielder David Silva - while Bayern Munich's Franck Ribery is also desperate to join the revolution.

Manchester City have the cash if not the ability to spend it. And with deals for Kaka, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Raul Albiol already completed, Perez has already eclipsed all of Europe's other big spenders in the process.

In fact, word is that Madrid's spending could exceed a remarkable £250m before the start of the season.

Let's take a look at how the Spanish giants have splashed the cash so far...

KAKA - £56 million

Signed June 8, from AC Milan

The small matter of £56m secured the services of Ricardo Izecson Dos Santos Leite - or Kaka to you and me.

The signing of Chelsea target Kaka, the first of the summer for Real, signified just how large the club's spending ambitions were and Kaka must have noticed that he was to be just one of many to be added to the club's ever-burgeoning player list.

Unveiled at the Bernabeu in front of 50,000 adoring fans on Tuesday, just two days after helping Brazil to lift the Confederations Cup in South Africa.

RAUL ALBIOL - £13 million

Signed June 25, from Valencia

The highly rated central defender cost a pretty penny from Valencia and showed Perez wasn't just interested in signing foreign flair players.

Featuring for Spain, he is seen as a successor to Barcelona's Carles Puyol in the national team. Albiol recently featured for Spain in the 5-0 trouching of New Zealand at the Confederations Cup.

CRISTIANO RONALDO - £80 million

Signed July 1, from Manchester United

Will he, wont he? That was the question we were all asking for what seems like for ever.

With guarded phrasing and ambiguous statements Ronaldo led us all on a merry dance for the last year, but now we have the answer. He will.

The former Manchester United star has consistently peformed for his club with a remarkable 42 goals coming in the 2007-08 season.

And with his form remaining good for Portugal, Madrid splashed a world record fee to prove that, yes, they can have Ronaldo AND Kaka.

Any more?...

KARIM BENZEMA - £35 million

Agreed July 1, from Lyon

While many believed that 21-year-old Benzema would remain at the club until at least after the 2010 World Cup, the chance to more than double his earnings at the Bernabeu proved too much.

Benzema, who will pick up £140,000 after tax, helped Lyon to four league titles and scored 23 goals last season.

Added to his 24 appearances for France and six goals, Benzema was the main target for Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson, who wanted the striker to replace the outgoing Carlos Tevez.

Mixed feelings for Benzema

2009-07-04T10:39:00.002+01:00

Karim Benzema has spoken of his mixed feelings ahead of his proposed move from Lyon to Real Madrid.

Ligue 1 club Lyon have accepted a fee in the region of £30million for their attacking star.

Talks are now under way between Real and Benzema as the Spanish giants look to add yet another exciting talent to their ranks.

The France international is eagerly anticipating fulfilling a childhood dream of playing for Los Blancos but will be sad to part company with Lyon.

"I'm sad and happy at the same time," Benzema told Lyon's official website.

"I'm happy because I'll be signing for a great club, which is one of the biggest in the world.

"When I was 16-18 this is the team I dreamed of above all. Now, in a few weeks, I'll be there. I am very happy.

"But I'm sad because I'm leaving behind my friends, the people with whom I grew up here in Lyon - I love all these things. But I will always follow Lyon because this club made me grow.

"I owe them everything."

Questioned as to whether he felt he could emulate the achievements of his future team-mates in winning the Ballon d'Or, awarded to the best footballer in Europe, he replied: "Yes, I have thought about this.

"I must just keep having good seasons with many great matches whether with the club or the French national side.

"For me, this must be a player's goal in his head, even if it's an individual trophy. "But if you want to be a somebody in football, and be recognised, you need to win the Ballon d'Or at least once. It's always in the back of my mind.

"All that's happened to me so far has been a dream, but I must keep working to make others come true."

Owen - Utd to reignite career

2009-07-03T21:47:00.002+01:00

Michael Owen is eager to put his 'poor spell' at Newcastle United behind him by scoring goals and lifting silverware at his new club Manchester United.

The England international sealed his shock free transfer to the Red Devils on Friday after passing a medical and then signing a two-year contract.

Owen endured a difficult time at St. James' Park, where he signed from Real Madrid in 2005, netting just 26 Premier League goals in four years.

The 29-year-old is excited about the next chapter in his career as he looks to recapture his best form and help United continue their winning ways.

He told MUTV: "It feels great. I never even had it in my wildest dreams really but then I got the call from the manager to come and meet him. "It was a shock but I'm obviously really happy and things have moved quickly since then.

"I probably had a poor spell up at Newcastle but prior to that, my career was very good and I'm sure a top club like this can reignite my career. Hopefully I can score a few goals and help the team to more success.

"It's early days but when you think about United, you automatically think about winning trophies, the stadium, the massive fanbase."

Owen also rejected suggestions that he is injury prone, stressing that he passed his United medical without any complications.

He added: "A lot is made of it and probably a lot will come out in the coming months and years but I certainly don't feel like I'm injury prone.

"I'd like to think that everyone was quite surprised at how my medical was. I knew I would pass my medical, I've obviously passed them before. My fitness is fine."

Milan bid for Fabiano - agent

2009-07-03T21:32:00.002+01:00

Luis Fabiano's agent has claimed AC Milan have made an official approach to Sevilla for the Brazil striker.

Milan are in the market for a forward following Kaka's £56million departure to Real Madrid and had made Wolfsburg's Edin Dzeko their No. 1 target.

But with Wolfsburg adamant the Bosnian will remain in Germany, it seems Fabiano has emerged as Milan's top transfer priority.

Fabiano's representative, Jose Fuentes, told Sky Italia: "Milan have made an official offer to Sevilla for Luis Fabiano.

"The player has already said he wants to play for Milan next season. I don't know how much the bid amounts to, but there is this important and official order on the table.

"Now it is up to the Rossoneri and Sevilla to reach an agreement, then my client and I will speak to Milan.

"The buy-out clause on his contract is €30m (£25.7m), but Luis Fabiano has concluded a four-year cycle with Sevilla and now Milan represent a big opportunity for him.

"I repeat, the player has publicly stated he wants to join Milan, now it is up to the two clubs to strike a deal.

"I think it will take two or three weeks, but no more than that."

A transfer to Milan for Fabiano would seemingly end any possibility that Emmanuel Adebayor could leave Arsenal for San Siro.

Kaka's unveiling at Real Madrid

2009-07-03T13:47:00.003+01:00

Owen set for United medical

2009-07-03T13:34:00.002+01:00

Michael Owen has arrived at Manchester United's Carrington training ground to undergo a full medical before completing his shock move to Old Trafford.

The striker has left Newcastle after his reported £120,000-a-week contract expired on Wednesday and he is now looking for a new club.

Hull City and Stoke had sounded their interest in the former Liverpool star, but Premier League champions United appear to have sensationally won the race for his signature.

Despite being a free signing, the move would represent a gamble for Old Trafford boss Sir Alex Ferguson given Owen's struggles with injuries throughout his career.

But reports suggest the 29-year-old successfully underwent an initial assessment on his troublesome knee on Thursday and has now travelled to Manchester to undergo an overall medical.

United have yet to officially comment on the story, but it is expected that Owen will become a Red Devils player before the weekend.

Ferguson is keen for attacking reinforcements after losing Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Tevez this summer and Owen's proven goalscoring record is thought to be viewed as a solution.

Karim Benzema was United's primary target, but Real Madrid have had a big-money offer accepted for the Lyon striker and the Red Devils have therefore been forced to look elsewhere.

Owen's move is unlikely to go down well with Liverpool supporters after the striker spent eight years with the Reds having started his career at Anfield.

The 89-time England cap then moved to Real for one season in 2004 before joining Newcastle on a four-year deal.

City fail in new Terry bid

2009-07-03T13:28:00.002+01:00

Chelsea have confirmed that they have rejected a second offer from Manchester City for captain John Terry.

Money-rich City made an unsuccessful bid for the England skipper last season and they have again failed in their attemps to bring the centre-back to Eastlands.

The size of the offer has not been revealed, but Chelsea insist that Terry is not for sale and that the 28-year-old is totally committed to the cause at Stamford Bridge.

A statement on the club's official website said: "We can confirm we have completely rejected an offer from Manchester City for John Terry.

"It was made clear to City, for a second time following an approach last season, that we would not entertain any conversation on the subject.

"At the time John also reiterated his total commitment to Chelsea. "We would like to make it clear, and will not do so again, that John is not for sale."

Lyon confirm Benzema deal

2009-07-02T21:19:00.002+01:00

Lyon have announced that star striker Karim Benzema is to become the latest player to join Real Madrid.

The French forward had been linked with Manchester United, but big-spending-Real - who have already captured Kaka and Cristiano Ronaldo in record deals - have won the race.

Lyon have said the transfer will be worth at least £30million as new Bernabeu president Florentino Perez continues to build a new era of 'galacticos'.

A statement on the French club's official website said: "Lyon announces the agreement with Real Madrid of the transfer of international attacker Karim Benzema for a net minimum of €35million.

"It will also be possible to add various no-claims bonuses related to athletic performances, allowing the deal to reach a maximum amount of €41million."

It was announced that Benzema would remain at Lyon for one more season in order to concentrate on the 2010 World Cup.

However, the Ligue 1 outfit have announced that the attacker told the club's hierarchy that he wanted to join Real, who he preferred to United, this summer.

The statement continued: "A few days ago, Karim Benzema informed president Jean Michel Aulas of his wish to join Madrid, which has always been his preference after Lyon, quicker than it was initially considered.

"The player wished to seize the opportunity that was offered to him by Real, which was to be one of the major elements of the club's new, ambitious policy built around some of the largest players in the world.

"Lyon accepted the decision of Karim Benzema and negotiated the conditions of a transfer which satisfy the various elements.

"The club wishes Karim the greatest success with Real Madrid."

Vidic agent refutes exit talk

2009-07-02T20:54:00.002+01:00

Nemanja Vidic's agent has hit out at reports that the Manchester United defender could leave at Old Trafford.

The Serbian international, names United's player of the year last season, was quoted as saying his wife was finding it hard to settle in England.

Vidic, who is under contract until 2012, subsequently found his name linked with a host of top clubs across Europe, including Barcelona, AC Milan and Inter Milan.

But Silvano Martina, who represents the former Spartak Moscow player, claims his client has not given any interviews in recent weeks and insists he is going nowhere.

"Even though Vidic has not spoken for the last three months, there have been false interviews published in the press," Martina told Gazzetta dello Sport.

"I read that he wants to leave, that his wife is not happy at Manchester but all of these stories are false.

"He is very annoyed and saddened by these stories that give the wrong impression.

"In football you never know what can happen, but I believe he will remain at Manchester United, one of the strongest clubs in the world.

"If Vidic or I should have problems with the club (United), we will talk directly to Alex Ferguson and not to newspapers."

Eto'o wants Barca stay

2009-06-30T17:15:00.002+01:00

Samuel Eto'o wants to stay at Barcelona, but will not fight to remain with the European champions if they do not want to keep him, according to the striker's agent.

Premier League outfit Manchester City made a 'strastospheric offer' for Eto'o over the weekend, according to Barcelona president Joan Laporta, which sources understand to be in the region of £25million.

Reports suggest Eto'o, who has one year remaining on his contract at Camp Nou, is prepared to snub a move to England but the Cameroon international's future remains uncertain.

The 28-year-old's representative, Jose Maria Mesalles, is adamant his client wants to continue his career with the Catalan club, but has blasted the Barcelona board for the murky events of the transfer saga.

"The player wants to stay and complete the last year of his contract," said Mesalles. "If Barca don't want him they should say so, so we can pursue the player's future in a professional manner.

"The club said coach Pep Guardiola did not want him. Guardiola has not told the player he is not required."

Eto'o has a contract with Barcelona until 2010, but Mesalles claims he did not receive an offer of an extension until almost midnight on Monday when the club offered a two-year extension on the same salary.

Mesalles believes that, if Barcelona have received an offer from City they should be open about it.

"If they have a serious offer from Manchester City, and if they want to continue with this negotiation we could be interested," Mesalles added.

"We haven't spoken to City but if Barca have reached an agreement it shouldn't be that difficult to reach a deal.

Kaka passes Real medical

2009-06-30T17:09:00.002+01:00

Real Madrid have confirmed that Kaka has successfully passed his medical with the Primera Division giants.

The 27-year-old had already completed a first set of medical tests with Real whilst on international duty in Brazil prior to the official announcement of his transfer from AC Milan on 8th June.

Kaka, who Real have paid Milan a fee reportedly in the region of £56million for, will be presented by his new club at the Bernabeu on Tuesday evening.

The capture of Kaka is set to be followed by Cristiano Ronaldo's £80million arrival from Manchester United, with the winger to be unveiled on 6th July.

Fronted by president Florentino Perez, Real are overseeing a period of recruitment as they look to build a side that will ensure they return to lifting honours.

City bid £25m for Eto'o

2009-06-29T11:58:00.002+01:00

Sources are understood Manchester City have made a £25million bid to Barcelona for striker Samuel Eto'o.

On Sunday, Barca president Joan Laporta claimed affluent club City had made a "strastospheric offer" to Eto'o.

The Cameroon international's future is the subject of conjecture as he enters the final year of his current contract.

With just 12 months to run on his deal with the European champions, he could leave Camp Nou as a free agent next summer.

Eto'o's agent is set to hold a press conference on Tuesday in a bid to clarify the Barcelona striker's future.

Reports emanating from Spain suggest Eto'o's representative, Jose Maria Mesalles, is to announce the forward plans to see out his deal at Barca.

City manager Mark Hughes has signed two players since the end of the season, with midfielder Gareth Barry arriving from Aston Villa at the beginning of June.

Last week, long-term target Roque Santa Cruz completed a reported £18million move from Blackburn Rovers.

Hughes is keen to build a side breaking into the top four, and the potential arrival of Eto'o would prove a coup for the ambitious Eastlands outfit.

Valencia close to United deal

2009-06-29T11:49:00.002+01:00

Sources are understood that Antonio Valencia could complete his switch from Wigan to Manchester United on Monday.

United are said to be close to completing the £16million deal with the Red Devils keen to replace the huge void left by the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo to Real Madrid.

The 23-year-old is believed to be in Manchester undergoing a medical and the completion of the move is said to be imminent.

The Latics are set to make a massive profit on the winger after signing him on a permanent deal from Villarreal in January 2008 for a fee believed to be around £3million after enjoying 18 months on loan at thr JJB Stadium.

The Ecuador international is unlikely to score as many goals as his Portuguese predecessor with just seven strikes in 89 appearances for the Latics.

However, his ability is not in doubt after three successful seasons in the Premier League.

Despite the big-money transfer it remains to be seen whether Valencia will be handed the legendary number seven shirt at Old Trafford.

Ronaldo happy to be hated

2009-06-14T10:38:00.002+01:00

Real Madrid-bound Cristiano Ronaldo has claimed that he enjoys being singled out for abuse by opposition supporters.

Manchester United have accepted a world record £80million transfer fee from Real which will see the Portuguese phenomenon switch to Spain this summer once personal terms are agreed.

Ronaldo flourished in the wake of the 2006 World Cup, when he was targeted by opposition fans in the Premier League angry at his reaction to Wayne Rooney's red card in England's quarter-final defeat by Portugal.

The gifted forward, who appears to be never out of the spotlight, believes that for every fan who jeers him, there are more who appreciate his talents.

Ronaldo told French football magazine So Foot: "I love it when people jeer me. I love to see the hate in their eyes, to hear the insults. It doesn't bother me.

"It's true lots of people hate me but there are even more who love me and who support me.

"I feel bad only when I play badly. Fortunately, that happens rarely."

Ronaldo has set his sights on carving his name into the football history books and will not rest of what he has already achieved at Old Trafford.

He added: "I still have a long way to go. I really want to re-write the history of football.

"I am aware I'm already among the best of the best but I want to continue to write more beautiful pages."

he former Sporting Lisbon ace will come up agaisnt Barcelona star Lionel Messi on a regular basis in Spain, with the Argentina ace winning their personal duet in this summer's UEFA Champions League final.

But Ronaldo said: "I have nothing to envy Lionel for. I don't compare myself to others. I am Cristiano Ronaldo - and I can win more medals than anybody else.

"I don't like to relax. The fans want to see a great Cristiano Ronaldo so I try to never disappoint."

Ronaldo proud of Real bid

2009-06-12T10:59:00.002+01:00

Cristiano Ronaldo has expressed his delight after Real Madrid agreed a world record deal of £80million with Manchester United for his services.

The Red Devils confirmed they had accepted the fee for the Portugal international, who is currently on holiday in the United States, on Thursday.

Ronaldo is flattered that two of the world's biggest clubs want him to play for them and says the £80million Real are willing to splash out on his signature is an 'historic' deal.

The 24-year-old 2008 World Player of the Year is yet to agree personal terms with Real and insists that his minor hernia injury will not require surgery or delay a deal.

"It's flattering when two of the top teams in the world want you to play for them," he told Fox Sports.

"The deal is historic - £80m is quite a sum of money.

"I learned about the deal here in LA and have heard from my people that Manchester United have accepted.

"However, I have also been told Madrid want to have a medical team look at me as expected.

"I do not require surgery. The hernia is nothing to worry about.

"I am on vacation and will remain in LA a bit more."

United fans have demanded all the £80million received from Real for Ronaldo is reinvested in the team - with Carlos Tevez top of their wish-list.

United have been trying to broker a deal with Tevez's advisor Kia Joorabchian, who had a meeting with chief executive David Gill last week aimed at resolving the matter.

However, with a world-record fee at their disposal if, as expected, Ronaldo moves to the Bernabeu later this month, United supporters see no reason to stall any longer, while Bayern Munich's Franck Ribery and Antonio Valencia of Wigan remain major targets.

Most United supporters will be happy to accept Ferguson's judgement on a player who nearly left Old Trafford last summer, since when his elaborate posturing and ego have only increased.

But, as compensation for losing the world player of the year, they want an assurance the massive fee will not be used to pay off part of the Glazer family's £650million debt.

"There is no information that it is anything other than the manager's decision but obviously there is a huge pressure on the owners and it is a temptation when you are offered that much money," said Duncan Drasdo, chairman of the Manchester United Supporters Trust.

"That is exactly why we want to see a commitment from the owners that the money is going to remain within the club and available to strengthen the squad.

"We have sold the best player in the world. That is a big disappointment. If the money is reinvested into the club at least it will soften the blow."

Hiddink agrees new Blues role

2009-05-31T10:52:00.002+01:00

Guus Hiddink has accepted an offer to become a technical adviser with Chelsea after stepping down as manager.

The Dutchman took the reins at Stamford Bridge in February following the dismissal of Luiz Felipe Scolari.

He helped the Blues finish third in the Premier League and advance to the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League, where they came within moments of knocking out eventual winners Barcelona.

A number of Chelsea players pleaded with Hiddink to remain in charge beyond the end of the season but he always maintained that he would be resuming his role as full-time Russia boss.

Hiddink will now do just that after signing off as Chelsea manager on Saturday with victory over Everton in the FA Cup final.

It was an emotional farewell for the 61-year-old but he has now indicated that he will continue to work with the club in a new capacity.

"I will be in continuous contact with the club. Chelsea have asked me to become technical adviser," he said in the Sunday Mirror.

"You don't think I was going to turn that offer down, do you?"

Chelsea claim FA Cup glory

2009-05-31T10:29:00.002+01:00

Chelsea came from behind to win 2-1 at Wembley after Everton's Louis Saha had scored the fastest ever goal in an FA Cup final.

A tight encounter had been forecast after two goalless draws between the teams in the Premier League this season, but it took just 25 seconds for Saha to break the deadlock with a well-struck volley.

It beat Bob Clatt's 1895 mark by five seconds and gave David Moyes' underdogs the perfect start, but Chelsea quickly regained their composure and equalised through a Didier Drogba header on 21 minutes.

The Blues continued to dominate possession for the rest of the first half and nearly went ahead early in the second period when Nicolas Anelka's delicate chip dropped over the crossbar.

There were few clear-cut opportunities but both sides maintained a high tempo in soaring temperatures and the crucial goal arrived after 72 minutes as Frank Lampard crashed a powerful shot past Tim Howard from distance.

The impressive Florent Malouda was unlucky not to get a third Chelsea goal when his fantastic long-range effort hit the crossbar and appeared to bounce over the line, but in the end it mattered little as Everton struggled to apply much pressure in the closing stages.

Chelsea held on comfortably to provide Guus Hiddink with a fitting send-off in his final game in charge, while Everton's wait for a first major piece of silverware since 1995 goes on.

Barca stun the Bernabeu

2009-05-03T10:14:00.002+01:00

Barcelona extended their lead at the top of La Liga to seven points with a crushing defeat (6-2) of arch-rivals Real Madrid in 'El Clasico'.

Thierry Henry and Lionel Messi both netted braces while Carles Puyol and Gerard Pique were also on the scoresheet as Pep Guardiola's treble-chasers condemned Madrid to their first league defeat in 18 games.

Barca were forced to come back from an early deficit, as Madrid went ahead inside 14 minutes through Gonzalo Higuain.

Sergio Ramos sent over a cross from the right and Higuain rose unmarked to head home his 19th league goal of the season.

But the visitors turned turned the game around within six minutes with strikes from Henry and Puyol.

The lively Henry drew Barca level in the 18th minute when Ramos failed to cut out Lionel Messi's through-ball and the Frenchman coolly rolled his shot past Iker Casillas.

Henry was also involved in the goal that put Barca ahead soon after, winning a free-kick to the left of the area that Xavi curled into the area and onto the head of the unmarked Puyol, who duly finished.

Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas produced three superb saves to deny Lionel Messi (twice) and Samuel Eto'o in the space of six minutes as Barcelona repeatedly swept through the home defence.

But Casillas could do nothing to prevent Messi putting Barca 3-1 up in the 35th minute though after a mix-up in the Real Madrid defence.

Lassana Diarra was caught in possession by Xavi deep inside Madrid territory, and with the home side's backline nowhere in the vicinity, Messi had all the time in the world to collect the ball, stroll into the area and slide a low shot past Iker Casillas.

Barca continued to look the more likely to get another goal as well, with Dani Alves testing Casillas with a long-range free-kick just before the break and Andres Iniesta going close at the start of the second half.

It was actually Madrid who would find the breakthrough though, thanks to Ramos.

Iniesta was adjudged to have fouled Robben just outside the box, and from the resulting kick Ramos headed home the Dutchman's cross at the far post to give Madrid a lifeline.

The glimmer of hope was to last all of a minute before Henry restored Barca's two-goal advantage.

Xavi picked out the former Arsenal player's run in behind Ramos and Henry reached the ball before the onrushing Casillas. The Frenchman coolly curled his shot around the keeper and into the net.

The hosts were left embarrassed after Messi made it 5-2 in the 75th minute, the Argentinian picking up a pass from Xavi before beating Casillas at his near post.

Madrid's nightmare had not finished and Pique wrapped up the scoring eight minutes from time with Barca's 100th league goal of the season.

The win moves the Catalan side seven points clear with only four games remaining in the Spanish season.

Gerrard happy he stayed put

2009-05-02T10:54:00.002+01:00

Steven Gerrard insists he has no regrets about staying at Liverpool and turning down Chelsea.

In 2005 after asking for a move from his beloved Reds, Gerrard was all set to seal a move to Jose Mourinho's Chelsea.

But Gerrard later turned his back on Stamford Bridge and he has now helped turn Liverpool into genuine title contenders.

"The reason the whole Chelsea thing came up was down to frustration that we were so far away from the title race," Gerrard told the Daily Telegraph.

"That's why their interest maybe turned my head slightly. But I look back now and I'm really pleased I decided to stay because I am part of a top team here that can be successful.

"It would mean an awful lot more to be successful at Liverpool than it would at any other club.

"Don't get me wrong, I might have won more medals somewhere else but if I was to win the league here, along with a few more cups, that would mean a lot more than winning seven or eight trophies somewhere else. I can share it with my family, with the Liverpool supporters because I've been one of them all my life."

Tevez leaning towards exit

2009-05-02T10:43:00.003+01:00

Carlos Tevez has given his strongest indication yet that he will leave Manchester United in the summer.

The Argentine is currently nearing the end of a two-year loan deal at Old Trafford, and Red Devils manager Sir Alex Ferguson has said the club are keen to extend his stay.

But speculation over the forward's future continues to linger and during Wednesday night's 1-0 UEFA Champions League win over Arsenal, Tevez looked frustrated when he was replaced by striker Dimitar Berbatov on 66 minutes.

And now the 25-year-old has revealed he is leaning more towards a departure come the end of the season, with Primera Division his preferred destination.

Tevez told Cadena COPE: "It's true I've spent a lot of time on the bench and I'd like to play more. But every time I'm given a chance I do all I can to do well and take full advantage.

"Yes, it's like that, it's true I see myself more leaving United than staying here.

"I don't see why I should lie to people or anything because the fans support me a lot as you can see. So I don't have any reason to lie to them.

"While I wear the United shirt I will leave my life on the pitch. You can see that in every game I play. I respect people a lot and I'm grateful to them.

"My future? I don't know what will happen for my future. I would like to go to Spain, yes, but I don't know yet.

"I have no preference for a team ... we'll see.

"With respect to the fans and the history of Manchester United, I don't want to leave the club. But from a personal aspect, my exit will be the best solution."

Liedson scores twice in Sporting derby win

2009-02-22T11:16:00.004Z

Sporting Clube de Portugal defeated SL Benfica 3-2 with two goals from Liedson in a thrilling Lisbon derby on Saturday night to join their neighbours within four points of FC Porto.

Porto's 2-0 win at Paços de Ferreira on Friday had increased the stakes for the Estádio José Alvalade encounter, and Sporting got off to the perfect start with Liedson's eleventh-minute strike but José Antonio Reyes converted a penalty late in the first half to equalise. Derlei, a 27th-minute substitute after Hélder Postiga picked up a knock, restored the Sporting lead not long after the break.

Bruno Pereirinha hit the crossbar for the home side before crossing for Liedson to put the game beyond Benfica with an 83rd-minute header, his tenth in 12 games against Sporting's neighbours. Despite substitute Óscar Cardozo's last-gasp goal for the visitors, Sporting held on for a morale-boosting win ahead of the UEFA Champions League visit to FC Bayern Munich on Wednesday. In the other Saturday game Rio Ave moved off the bottom as they beat Vitória Setúbal 1-0 to leapfrog their opponents and three other teams into 12th.

Fergie hails 'amazing' Jose

2009-02-22T10:58:00.002Z

Sir Alex Ferguson has hailed Jose Mourinho ahead of Manchester United's UEFA Champions League clash with Inter Milan.

United travel to the Giuseppe Meazza on Tuesday for the first-leg of their last 16 tie, and Ferguson cannot wait to again lock horns with Mourinho.

The Scottish legend did not hold back in his praise for the former Chelsea coach.

"He's one of the best coaches in the world, amazing," said Ferguson after seeing his side clinch a 2-1 win over Blackburn on Saturday evening.

"I knew of him when we played Porto in 2004 but it wasn't until Jose went to Chelsea and called himself the Special One that I began to take notice of him.

"But don't forget he was self anointed! When he called himself that people sat up and I did too. But his achievements were there to be recognised.

"I don't know everything about Jose or what he does on the training ground, but you can't deny his success to win the UEFA Cup with Porto as well as two or three domestic titles in Portugal.

"Then he won the Champions League with them and that takes some doing at a club like Porto.

"After that he won the two titles at Chelsea. It will be good going, too, if he wins the title in his first season at Inter - so he has made his mark alright.

"He came in and said he was the Special One and we were thinking, 'who is this?'. After that his team were thinking they'd better win and they got off to a start like nothing on earth:

Everyone was chasing their tail for two seasons so we had to do something about it - and that's what we did.

"Jose was the instigator of the Chelsea team without question. He gave them a resilience and a winning mentality that has put them onto that higher level and it make it hard for us to compete against them."

Tevez waiting on decision

2009-02-18T18:02:00.001Z

Carlos Tevez says he will not know whether he is staying at Manchester United until the summer.

The Argentina international is only contracted to United until the end of the season, after he arrived at Old Trafford on an initial two-year loan upon leaving West Ham.

United have an agreement in place to pay around £30million to a third-party for his services, but have failed to rubber-stamp this arrangement as yet.

Tevez is now left waiting to know whether he will remain at United, although he has repeatedly stated this is his intention in the past.

"I have the head start in Manchester and my idea is to stay here for a few more years," Tevez revealed in an interview with Radio del Plata.

"It would be very difficult to have to leave one of the biggest clubs in the world.

"I spoke with the president of the club, but nothing is signed yet.

"We are now waiting until June and we will see what happens."

Nenê cools Arsenal reports

2009-02-18T18:01:00.001Z

Brazilian striker Nenê has played down rumours linking him with a move to Arsenal.

Press reports have suggested the Gunners are interested in the 25-year-old, who is currently contracted to Portuguese Liga side Nacional.

But highly-rated attacker Nenê has insisted that no official approach has been made for his services, while Arsenal have yet to comment on the speculation.

Nenê told Antena 1: "I only know about the rumours in the press. I have spoken with my agent and we still have not received a concrete offer.

"I am focused on helping Nacional to secure success this season. My dream is to progress in football and it is normal that I desire a bright future."

Blues get Guus green light

2009-02-10T17:15:00.003Z

Chelsea have confirmed they have been granted permission by Russia to speak to Guus Hiddink about becoming their temporary manager.

Hiddink revealed earlier on Tuesday he was in talks with Chelsea about replacing Luiz Felipe Scolari on a short-term basis until the end of the season.

The Russian Football Union does not want Hiddink to quit his role with the national team but is willing for him to share the roles.

Former PSV Eindhoven and Real Madrid chief Hiddink is happy to take charge of Chelsea on a short-term basis as he is keen to lead Russia to the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

"Chelsea Football Club can confirm it has officially approached the Russian Football Union (RFU) for permission to speak to Guus Hiddink to become the club's temporary coach until the end of the season while continuing to be in charge of the Russian national team," said a Chelsea statement.

"That permission has been granted and Chelsea would like to thank the RFU for their co-operation."

If all goes to plan, Hiddink could take charge of Chelsea for the first time in this weekend's FA Cup clash with Watford.

Scolari sacked by Chelsea

2009-02-09T17:42:00.002Z

Chelsea have sacked Luiz Felipe Scolari, with Guus Hiddink and Avram Grant immediately linked to the Stamford Bridge post.

The Brazilian only took charge of the Blues in the summer and after a promising start the club have slipped to fourth in the table, seven points adrift of Manchester United.

Saturday's 0-0 draw at home to Hull City proved to be the final straw for the World Cup winner and the Premier League outfit have now confirmed his departure.

A statement on the club's official website read: "Luiz Felipe Scolari has been dismissed as manager of Chelsea Football Club today (Monday) with immediate effect.

"The Chelsea board would like to place on record our gratitude for his time as manager.

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

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

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

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

"While that continues assistant coach Ray Wilkins will take charge of the team on a temporary basis."

Sky Sports News understands that the club have already compiled a two-man shortlist to replace Scolari, with Hiddink and Grant the names in the frame.

Grant stepped into the breach following Jose Mourinho's departure before being axed at the end of the season despite finishing second in the Premier League and reaching the UEFA Champions League final.

Hiddink has been linked with a host of Premier League posts after his exploits as Russia coach, including reaching the Euro 2008 semi-finals.

One possibility is that the duo could work together, with Hiddink taking charge of the team affairs and Grant operating as director of football.

In the meantime, Ray Wilkins will take temporary charge of the Blues as they prepare for Saturday's FA Cup clash with Watford.

Pompey confirm Adams axe

2009-02-09T17:31:00.002Z

Portsmouth have confirmed that manager Tony Adams has left the struggling Premier League club.

Sky Sports News revealed on Sunday night that Adams was set to be axed from his post after a run of nine games without a win which left the club just a point above the relegation zone.

And the Fratton Park outfit have now released a statement on Adams' exit, with first-team coach John Metgod also shown the door.

Director of youth operations Paul Hart will take over as caretaker manager until a permanent successor can be found.

"This has been a very difficult decision and Tony has worked tirelessly to arrest the slump in form," a club spokesman told the club's official website.

European Round-up

2009-02-08T21:22:00.002Z

English Premier League:

Blackburn 0-2 Aston Villa

Chelsea 0-0 Hull

Everton 3-0 Bolton

Man City 1-0 Middlesbrough

Portsmouth 2-3 Liverpool

Sunderland 2-0 Stoke

Tottenham 0-0 Arsenal

West Brom 2-3 Newcastle

West Ham 0-1 Man United

Wigan 0-0 Fulham

Spanish La Liga:

Barcelona 3-1 Sporting Gijón

Getafe 1-1 Espanyol

Málaga 3-2 Almería

Mallorca 1-1 Deportivo

Real Madrid 1-0 Racing

Recreativo 0-3 Atlético

Sevilla 1-2 Betis

Valladolid 2-1 Athletic

Villarreal 2-1 Numancia

French Ligue 1:

Grenoble 0-0 Valenciennes

Le Havre 1-0 Rennes

Lille 3-2 Sochaux

Lorient 1-1 Monaco

Nancy 0-2 Auxerre

Nantes 1-4 PSG

Nice 1-3 Lyon

St Etienne 3-2 Caen

Toulouse 2-0 Le Mans

Italian Serie A:

AC Milan 1-1 Reggina

Cagliari 0-1 Atalanta

Catania 1-2 Juventus

Fiorentina 1-0 Lazio

Lecce 0-3 Inter Milan

Palermo 2-1 Napoli

Roma 3-0 Genoa

Sampdoria 2-2 Siena

Torino 1-1 Chievo

Udinese 1-0 Bologna

German Bundesliga:

Bayern 3-1 Dortmund

Eintracht 2-2 Cologne

Energie 3-1 Hannover 96

Karlsruhe 3-2 Hamburg

Leverkusen 2-4 Stuttgart

Monchengladbach 1-1 Hoffenheim

Schalke 1-0 Bremen

Wolfsburg 2-0 Bochum

Portuguese Liga:

Amadora 0-0 Vitória FC

Naval 1º Maio 0-4 Nacional

Rio Ave 1-0 Académica

Sporting 2-3 Braga

Vitória SC 2-1 Marítimo

Lucky 13 as Utd go back top

2009-02-08T21:09:00.004Z

Manchester United kept a 13th straight clean sheet in the Premier League as a stunning solo goal from Ryan Giggs earned a 1-0 win at West Ham United.

The evergreen Giggs grabbed the only goal of a tight game at Upton Park just past the hour mark as fellow veteran Edwin van der Sar set a new record in goal.

West Ham matched the title favourites for long periods, with England new boy Carlton Cole having his team's best chance in the first half as his attempted chip was plucked out of the air by Van der Sar after he had been sent clear.

At the opposite end, Robert Green produced a smart reaction save after Cristiano Ronaldo had turned Paul Scholes' wayward shot back towards goal.

In the 34th minute, Van der Sar set a British league record for the longest run without conceding a goal and he was never seriously tested by the Hammers thereafter.

The reigning champions were not at their best, and struggled to create chances until a moment of magic from skipper Giggs settled the contest.

Scholes swept a fine ball out to the left flank on 62 minutes and Giggs cut inside, jinking past two defenders before curling a right-footed shot beyond Green.

Late Hammers pressure failed to yield an equaliser as the Red Devils returned to the top of the table after being temporarily displaced by Liverpool on Saturday.

West Ham: Green, Neill, Collins, Upson, Ilunga, Behrami (Tristan 87), Parker, Noble (Nsereko 77), Collison, Cole, Di Michele.

Subs Not Used: Lastuvka, Boa Morte, Kovac, Spector, Sears.

Booked: Neill.

Man Utd: Van der Sar, Rafael, Ferdinand, Vidic, O'Shea, Ronaldo, Scholes, Carrick, Giggs, Tevez (Park 87), Berbatov.

Subs Not Used: Foster, Nani, Welbeck, Fabio, Fletcher, Eckersley.

Booked: Vidic.

Goals: Giggs 62.

Att: 34,958.

Ref: Phil Dowd (Staffordshire).

Man of the Match: Giggs.

Capello calls on Beckham

2009-02-07T21:40:00.002Z

David Beckham has been named in the England squad for next week's friendly against Spain.

Beckham will get the chance to win a record-equalling 108th cap for England - while Carlton Cole and James Milner could be awarded with their first also receiving call-ups from manager Fabio Capello.

Beckham needs one more appearance for the Three Lions to match Bobby Moore's best mark for an outfield player and coach Capello has decided the 33-year-old's form on loan at AC Milan warrants an instant recall after he was omitted for the win over Germany in Berlin last November.

The inclusion of Cole and Milner comes on the back of excellent performances at club level for West Ham United and Aston Villa, repectively.

England take on Spain in a friendly international in Seville on Wednesday 11th February.

Squad in full:

Goalkeepers: Robert Green (West Ham), Joe Hart (Man City), David James (Portsmouth).

Defenders: Wayne Bridge (Man City), Ashley Cole (Chelsea), Rio Ferdinand (Man United), Phil Jagielka (Everton), Glen Johnson (Portsmouth), John Terry (Chelsea), Matthew Upson (West Ham United), Luke Young (Aston Villa).

Midfielders: David Beckham (AC Milan), Gareth Barry (Aston Villa), Michael Carrick (Man United), Stewart Downing (Middlesbrough), Frank Lampard (Chelsea), James Milner (Aston Villa), Shaun Wright-Phillips (Man City), Ashley Young (Aston Villa).

Forwards: Gabriel Agbonlahor (Aston Villa), Carlton Cole (West Ham), Peter Crouch (Portsmouth), Emile Heskey (Aston Villa).

Premier League round-up

2009-02-07T21:33:00.002Z

Liverpool left it late to claim a dramatic 3-2 victory at Portsmouth as Chelsea were frustrated by Hull City and Aston Villa climbed into third spot in the table.

Newcastle United gained an important win at relegation rivals West Bromwich Albion to provide hospitalised manager Joe Kinnear with a pick-me-up.

Jo enjoyed an impressive debut as Everton beat Bolton Wanderers, while his parent club Manchester City overcame struggling Middlesbrough.

Sunderland pulled further clear of trouble after battling past 10-man Stoke City as Wigan Athletic and Fulham played out a scoreless draw.

Results:

Man City 1-0 Middlesbrough

Blackburn 0-2 Aston Villa

Chelsea 0-0 Hull City

Everton 3-0 Bolton

Sunderland 2-0 Stoke City

West Brom 2-3 Newcastle

Wigan 0-0 Fulham

Portsmouth 2-3 Liverpool

Fergie scoops monthly award

2009-02-06T19:10:00.002Z

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has been named Premier League Manager of the Month for January.

The Red Devils came through the month with a 100 per cent record and without conceding a single goal.

January also saw United break the Premier League record for consecutive clean sheets when they secured their 11th against West Brom at The Hawthorns.

United's run has seen them climb to the top of the table, where they now find themselves two points clear of second place Liverpool with a game in hand.

The reigning champions began the month with a comprehensive 3-0 win at home to Chelsea before dispatching Wigan three days later, thanks to a solitary Wayne Rooney goal.

United then managed their second successive 1-0 win when a late Dimitar Berbatov header was enough to see off Bolton at The Reebok.

A 5-0 thumping of bottom-of-the-table West Brom followed, with Berbatov, Carlos Tevez, Nemanja Vidic and a brace from Cristiano Ronaldo securing the victory.

Finally a Ronaldo penalty gave Ferguson's men their third 1-0 win of the month when they overcame a stubborn Everton side at Old Trafford.

The decision was the 22nd time the Scot had picked up the Manager of the Month award during his career at Old Trafford.

Quaresma raring to go

2009-02-06T18:48:00.003Z

Inter Milan misfit Ricardo Quaresma cannot wait to get his career back on track at Chelsea.

The Portugal winger has moved to Stamford Bridge on loan after failing to establish himself in the Inter side - making just 13 appearances - since a £20million summer move from Porto to join Jose Mourinho at the San Siro.

After a previous failed spell with Barcelona, the playmaker is now keen to put this latest blow behind him.

He cannot wait to play again under his old Portugal boss Luiz Felipe Scolari and help the Blues win trophies.

Speaking at his official unveiling on Friday, the 25-year-old said: "You get criticism everywhere. Some people like you and some people don't. It is natural in life and in football.

"I don't care about that. What I care about is working hard to show my qualities.

"Those things happen in football. Players can't really prove or show anything if they don't have the opportunity to play.

"I'm very happy that I have that opportunity now. Mr Scolari gives you lots of confidence.

"I heard from Mr Mourinho that Inter were thinking about loaning me to a club. When I heard about Chelsea I didn't think twice.

"Chelsea was my first choice, especially when I heard Mr Scolari was interested in me because I knew I would have an opportunity to show my game."

Quaresma could make his debut in Saturday's match against Hull at Stamford Bridge, given Joe Cole is out injured and Florent Malouda is out of form.

He added: "I'm not unhappy or regretful that I went ot Inter Milan. Things happen sometimes that you can't control. Each coach has their own options and ideas and you have to respect that.

"I don't like to dwell much on the past. I'm very happy to have this opportunity to come to one of the greatest clubs in the world.

"I don't think I have to prove anything to anybody. All I think about is to work hard and show my best qualities on the pitch. I want Chelsea achieve their goals.

"I'm confident I'm going to be on the pitch on Saturday and will show my game."

Gerrard to miss three weeks

2009-02-05T14:47:00.002Z

Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard faces three weeks on the sidelines after suffering a torn hamstring.

Gerrard was forced off early on in Wednesday's FA Cup replay defeat at Everton after picking up a hamstring problem.

Scans have confirmed Gerrard has suffered a tear to his left hamstring which is likely to rule him out of action for up to three weeks.

It means Gerrard will miss this weekend's trip to Portsmouth as well as England's friendly with Spain next week.

The news is a massive blow to Liverpool's title challenge as their talisman will also miss the home clash with Manchester City on 22nd February and possibly the UEFA Champions League tie with Real Madrid three days later.

A club spokesman told Liverpool's official website: "A scan today has confirmed a tear in the hamstring of Steven's left leg. He will be out of action for about three weeks."

Harry confirms captain Keane

2009-02-04T21:35:00.003Z

Tottenham Hotspur manager Harry Redknapp has confirmed that new signing Robbie Keane has been handed the captain's armband.

Republic of Ireland international Keane sealed a dramatic return to White Hart Lane on transfer deadline day, just six months after leaving Spurs for Liverpool.

Defender Ledley King, who is currently sidelined by injury, will remain as club captain but Keane will lead out his team-mate, with his first match as skipper set to be against rivals Arsenal on Sunday.

Redknapp told Sky Sports News: "I said to Robbie that if I brought him back that I would like to make him captain. I think it was important to him, to come back and lead the club.

"They [the squad] are all pleased to have him back, and they know what he can do."

The former Portsmouth boss continued: "I just felt with Robbie coming in, a fresh face, there would be a new impetus with him as captain.

"He can give an awful lot. He is a big personality and we are a quiet team. If Robbie has something to say, he is going to say it.

"He is a leader and has the personality to be a captain of Tottenham."