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English Premiership Football News ( 30 August 2008 )

Shevchenko hits back at Mourinho jibe

AC Milan forward Andrei Shevchenko has hit back at Inter Milan coach José Mourinho to demand that Ukraine does not have to Chelsea because he was too used to being pampered.

Shevchenko signed for Mourinho to Chelsea from Milan two years ago, although it has been a poorly kept secret that the Portuguese boss did not want to sign the striker, who was a favorite of Blues owner Roman Abramovic.

Shevchenko has arrived for 30 million pounds with a reputation as the best finisher in Europe, but he suffered a sad fate two years in the Premier League, scoring nine goals and joined Milan earlier this week.

Mourinho then claimed that Shevchenko hero status in San Siro caused him to struggle to adapt to his ways at Stamford Bridge.

"It was like a prince in Milan and Chelsea our philosophy is different, we did not princes," said Mourinho.

"Everybody needs to work like everyone else and prove he deserves to play.

"I think I maybe lost a little confidence. Step by step, a player is going in the wrong direction."

Mourinho regularly left Shevchenko on the bench for Chelsea, but even after being dismissed shortly after the start of last season, his successor Avram Grant has still not taken the Ukraine.

But Shevchenko has dismissed Mourinho's comments.

"I've never been treated like a prince, as you know, I even had problems here in Milan, but I have overcome through hard work and sacrifice," said Sheva press met as it has in Milan and other recent signing Philippe Senderos were presented to the media.

"At the moment I am happy to have returned home. The most important thing is to get playing again, I want so badly. "

However, it is not just Mourinho who had to dig a Shevchenko Milan with former legends Alessandro Costacurta and Zvonimir Boban After questioning 31 years of the signing.

"I know it will be difficult, but I chose with my heart," said Shevchenko. "Regarding the other teams I do not see myself playing with any other jersey in Italy.

"I know it will be difficult to regain the fans but I will make every effort to do so."

by Soccernews

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English Premiership Football Result ( 30 August 2008 )

English Premier league Football Result

Bolton W. 0 - 0 West Bromwich A.

Everton 0 - 3 Portsmouth

Hull City 0 - 5 Wigan Athletic

Middlesbrough 2 - 1 Stoke C.

West Ham 4 - 1 Blackburn

Arsenal 3 - 0 Newcastle U.

[By Livescore.com ]

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English Premiership Football News ( 30 August 2008 )

Bolton bring in Smolarek on loan

Bolton have signed Poland striker Ebi Smolarek on a season-long loan from Spanish club Racing Santander.

The agreement includes an option to purchase 27-year-old former Borussia Dortmund and Feyenoord player when his loan spell goes well the Reebok Stadium.

Smolarek grew up in the Netherlands where his father Wlodzimierz, star of Poland for 1982 World Cup campaign, is the coaching.

It is the only player to win the Polish player of the year three times in 2005, 2006 and 2007.

A statement on the Spanish club's website read: "Racing and Bolton have signed an agreement for the loan Ebi Smolarek the British team until June 30, 2009.

"In addition, the English have held an option to buy Polish striker."

Smolarek has been tipped to be a star of Poland Cup debut in Europe in June, after scoring nine goals during their qualification campaign.

Ebi Smolarek signs!

But he failed to make his mark on the tournament, and was dropped for the last group match against Croatia that Poland did not advance beyond the group.

Despite this, he has already matched his father's record 13 goals for his country in his 34 international appearances, a total of senior Smolarek took 60 games to achieve.
by bbc news

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English Premiership Football News ( 30 August 2008 )

Stoke sign Reading defender Sonko

Reading defender Ibrahima Sonko has joined Premier League new boys Stoke City over a period of three years to deal £ 2m.

The Senegalese centre-back joined the Royals Brentford in 2004 and has played a large role in their Championship-winning season in 2005/06.

The 27 years, said the BBC Radio Stoke: "I was really happy when my agent told me that Stoke were interested.

"Every player wants to play in the Premier League when Stoke gave me an opportunity I could not say no."

The fee for the international could rise to £ 2.25 depending on the appearance and the Potters' future success.

The centre-half was injured during their first Premier League campaign and has been in and out of the game last season.

He was suspended for two weeks after a breach of club discipline in May and June said he wanted to leave but he started this season in the side.

"As much as I love reading, it was time for me to leave and join the big boys again," said Sonko.

"I already know some guys in Stoke they should make me feel comfortable immediately.

"We hope that all new signatures Stoke can enjoy a long time in the Premier League."

Sonko is reading the best scorer after finding the net twice against Plymouth two weekends ago and then get another goal before collecting a red card at Charlton last Saturday.


English Premiership Football News ( 30 August 2008 )



Fulham sign Etuhu from Sunderland

Fulham have signed midfielder Dickson Etuhu from Sunderland on a three-year contract for an undisclosed fee.

The 26-year-old Nigerian international made 20 appearances for the Black Cats last term following his arrival from Norwich City in summer 2007.

Etuhu began his career at Manchester City, before signing for Preston in 2002 and then joining Norwich in 2006.

Etuhu said: "These are exciting times at the club, and I've joined to become a part of Fulham's future success."

Etuhu started just 11 league games for Manchester City before signing for Preston in a £300,000 deal.

He played nearly 150 games for North End before joining Norwich after a loan spell at Carrow Road.

Fulham boss Roy Hodgson added: "Dickson's athleticism, strength and brand of football will offer a new dimension."

606: DEBATE
We have THREE defensive midfielders already!! Why do we need another one??

True Football Genius

Etuhu is the 11th player Hodgson has signed since Fulham narrowly avoided relegation at the end of last season.

"The transfer window closes in a few days' time and I’m delighted with the signings we have made this summer," said Hodgson.

"A great deal of credit must go to those working behind the scenes who have worked tirelessly to secure the players we have targeted."


English Premiership Football News ( 30 August 2008 )



Zabaleta set to sign for Man City

Manchester City are on the verge of signing Argentine international Pablo Zabaleta for £6.45m.

A statement on the Espanyol website claims they wanted to keep the player but that City matched the buy-out clause in the 23-year-old's contract.

The right-sided player is set to have his medical with City on Friday and will sign before the transfer window closes on 1 September.

Zabaleta was a member of the Argentine team that won gold at the Olympics.

He has been named in the Argentine squad ahead of their World Cup qualifiers against Paraguay and Peru and will join up with his national team on Sunday. 606: DEBATE
Will Zabaleta be a good signing?

Zabaleta, who can play in defence or midfield, signed for Espanyol in 2005 from San Lorenzo and has been a regular in the Spanish side.

City have already boosted their squad this week by re-signing Shaun Wright-Phillips from Chelsea.
by bbc news

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English Premiership Football News ( 30 August 2008 )

West Brom snap up Olsson

Former Sweden under-21 international defender Jonas Olsson joined Premiership side West Bromwich Albion Dutch club Nijmegen.

Pending a medical examination, 25, central defender is expected to sign and seal the passage over the weekend.

The fee could rise by a further 360000 books related to the performance of add-ons. Olsson is known to be a difficult fight against the defender, though in the air and comfortable on the ball.

After moving to the Netherlands from home-town club Landskrona in 2005, he was a regular in the Nijmegen side for the last three years.

by soccernews.com

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English Premiership Football News ( August 2008 )

Real to keep Chelsea target Robinho: press

Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon has decided to keep Chelsea target Robinho at the club, a Spanish sports newspaper said Friday.

"It stays in Madrid and there is no possibility to return to this point," said Calderon, according to AS.

Calderon took the decision after an actual average by German coach Bernd Schuster, which relies on Brazil for this season.

Chelsea coach Brazilian Luiz Felipe Scolari was keen to link up to 27 million pounds (33.7 million) swoop for Robinho before the transfer window closes on Monday, and reports have said the deal would be go before the weekend.

As published photos of Chelsea CEO Peter Kenyon and agent of Robinho, Wagner Ribeiro, leaving a restaurant near Real's Santiago Bernabeu stadium Wednesday evening.

Real this week were not chosen for the signing of two possible replacement of strikers Robinho - Santi Cazorla Villarreal and David Villa from Valencia.

Real has also failed in their attempt to recruit Manchester United game Portuguese Cristiano Ronaldo.

The season of the Spanish League starts this weekend, and the transfer window closes on Monday.

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English Premiership Football News ( 30 August 2008 )

Does Segers like Berbatov or not?

Hans Segers, the former Spurs goalkeeping coach, has spoken out about striker Dimitar Berbatov in the final days of the ‘will he, won’t he’ saga of the possible move to Manchester United.

Segers says that Berbatov is “a big sulker” and “a loner”. He went on to say that he “is difficult to communicate with” and that he “does not pull his weight”.

I think Segers should speak his mind and let us know whether he likes Berbatov or not!!
He forgot to mention that Berbatov is also a great player, of course.

Many newspapers report that Sir Alex Ferguson is becoming increasingly pessimistic about a deal being done.
(Source - Daily Mirror)by Soccernews.com

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English Premiership Football News ( 30 August 2008 )

Liverpool to sign Spain´s Riera from Espanyol

Liverpool are set to sign Spanish international midfielder Albert Riera from Espanyol, the Spanish first division side said Friday.

Riera, 26, will travel to Liverpool Friday for a medical before the clubs sign a final contract, the Barcelona-based club said on its website, but did not disclose the transfer fee.

The left-sided midfielder had a brief but unspectacular spell in England on loan to Manchester City for part of the 2005-2006 season.

He has also been a target of Liverpool’s city rivals Everton.
by soccernews.com

English Premiership Football News ( 30 August 2008 )


Everton sign Louis Saha

Everton are set to sign Manchester United striker Louis Saha, subject to the adoption of a medical player. The French departure was planned by supporters of Manchester United, some of whom tired of seeing the player with a key injury after another.

The costs that Manchester United will pay Everton has not yet been disclosed, but the player will sign a 2 years with the possibility of a third year.

Saha departure will leave Manchester United with fewer options in their already weak attack lines, but it will help fill the void created by Andy Johnson move to Fulham from Everton.

Saha Everton became the third signing of the summer - Lars Jacobsen Segundo Castillo and others.
[Source: evertonfc.com]

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English Premiership Football News ( 29 August 2008 )

Sunderland looking good. Will Manchester United be ‘Keane’ when Fergie retires?

Sunderland to win 2-1 to Tottenham May surprised many in the game and certainly was an unpleasant surprise for Juande Ramos, but most certainly not shocked their boss Roy Keane.

The man who was assaulted, free, moody, brilliant and sometimes downright nasty player turned into a well-behaved, well mannered, considered and potentially brilliant manager.

The quiet revolution, he oversaw the stadium of Light is indeed impressive. The addition of real quality in the form of Djibril Cisse, Steed Malbranque, David Healey and El-Hadji Diouf has greatly improved the side as an attack force and the new purchase of the excellent Anton Ferdinand will considerably strengthen the defence. This additional quality has been added to a team that had already fought their way to reasonably secure a comfortable Premier League last season finishing.

It May be too early to say with certainty, but it seems that Keane has managed to transform Sunderland in just two seasons to be an eternal yo-yo between the Premiership team and the championship being prepared equipment Premier League.

After the great victory at White Hart Lane, Keane said a bad omen for the other clubs in the Premier League second division, those outside the top four. If obviously very pleased with his accusations Keane said: "The good sign is I think there are many more to come from this team."

The 1-0 defeat at home to Liverpool on the opening day of the season was a bit of a wake-up for Keane and his players. Despite corresponding to visitors for a large part of a strike Thursday at the end of Torres settled the game for the visitors in the same way as so often is the case for the first four teams against the likes of Sunderland. Keane is well aware of this fact. "For all the work, the number of goals scored in the last 15 minutes is huge and another 75 minutes through the window. It was just a moment, that is all we speak, but this is the beauty of the Premier League. I can not complain, because I was on the other side of it. "

He was also quick to take some responsibility himself, saying he had not arranged a pretty tough pre-season and learn from its mistakes.

Despite the well-deserved reputation among fans Keane has its opponents as a player, he was always well respected. It is becoming a manager whom it is difficult not to respect and his attitude is one that you have to admire. It is very difficult to reconcile the fact that the smile, humble and philosophical man, we see now is the same man who so famous snarling ended the career of Alf-Inge Haaland and threatens the career of so many ' others.

Keane is a winner. However, he realizes what he did, he accepts nothing less than success. Niall Quinn is a very clever when he took on the man whom he had never seen perspectives on the international scene when Republic of Ireland team-mates. He put aside personal feelings and took a decision for the good of the club.

The two men had a very public falling to the World Cup in 2002, while Keane was caught in spectacular style with manager Mick McCarthy and Quinn face with his manager. Keane left the team without playing in the tournament and Quinn, seems to lead to a committee of players who stood against what Keane had done.

It is ironic in some ways that Keane seems to have reached that Sunderland Mick McCarthy has never been quite able to do so in the establishment as a Premier League club.

Keane has played a large part of his career under the management skills of Brian Clough and Sir Alex Ferguson. Both men are two of the most colorful managers in the history of English football and two of the most effective. Keane can not fail to have taken a lot of these two wonderful managers over the years, but his style seems to be quite his own.

Sunderland will be hoping that Keane remains with them for many years to come. Keane himself enough May his gaze on an even greater work on time.

With Sir Alex Ferguson said he will retire in two years, anyone would even be willing to bet against see Roy Keane take over in the Old Trafford hot seat when it goes?
by soccernews.com

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English Premiership Football News ( 29 August 2008 )

Dong released by United

Striker Chinese Dong Fangzhuo has left Manchester United on Thursday after his contract with European champions was cancelled by mutual consent.

Dong, 23, suffered a frustrating four-year spell at Old Trafford after his transfer from 500000 pounds of Dalian Shide in 2004.

He spent two years on loan at Royal Antwerp, scoring 35 goals in 61 matches, as he waited for a work permit to play in England.

When Dong was finally given the green light to play for United, he made his debut in a goalless draw at Chelsea in May 2007 - becoming the first Chinese player to represent United.

But it turned out to be a false dawn. He made only two appearances last season and spent most of the campaign watching margin United stormed to a Premier League and Champions League double.

"Dong Fangzhuo United contract was terminated by mutual consent", a statement on the website of the United confirmed.

by soccernews.com

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English Premiership Football News ( 28 August 2008 )

Arsenal defender Senderos joins AC Milan

Defender Philippe Senderos has left Arsenal for AC Milan on a one-year loan deal, the Premiership club said on Wednesday.

The 23-year-old central defender had his medical in Milan on Tuesday and has now completed the move to the San Siro with Milan hosting Bologna on Sunday in their first league match of the season.

Senderos moved to Arsenal from Servette Geneva five years ago. In his time in north London, the Swiss international won the FA Cup in 2005 and was part of the backline that kept a record 10 Champions League clean sheets in the 2005/06 season.

He has made 115 appearances for Arsenal, scoring four goals.
by soccernews.com

English Premiership Football News ( 28 August 2008 )

Shevchenko spoilt at AC Milan says Mourinho

José Mourinho insists Andriy Shevchenko was doomed to failure, because the Ukraine in the Chelsea striker was treated with kid gloves at AC Milan.

Mourinho was in charge at Stamford Bridge when Shevchenko joined for a club record 30 million pounds (37 million) in 2006.

Shevchenko arrived with a reputation as the best finish in Europe, but he suffered a dark period of two years spell in the Premier League, scoring only nine goals, and rejoined AC Milan earlier this week.

Mourinho, now in charge main rivals Inter Milan in Milan, Shevchenko believes the hero status in the San Siro caused him to struggle to adapt to team-first ethic that he requires of all its players.

"He was like a prince in Milan and Chelsea in our philosophy was different, we had princes," said Mourinho feelfootball.com

"Everybody has to work like everybody else and prove it deserves to play.

"I think maybe I lost some self-confidence. Step by step a player vai in the wrong direction."

Mourinho revealed Shevchenko was given to him as a second option for the club after Chelsea failed powerbrokers in their land a target number.

"He was not my first choice, but the club gave it to me as a second option," said Mourinho.

"I believe that in future it will again be a player of great quality. The truth is that I never had a single personal problem with him and I wish him well for the future."

Mourinho was rumour to be unhappy with Shevchenko during their time together, but the Portuguese coach is adamant there was never any bust-up.

"The truth is that I never had a single personal problem with him and I wish him well for the future," he repeated. "I believe that in future it will again be a player of great quality."

Shevchenko, 31, will have the opportunity to stress the quality of Mourinho in the two Derbi Milan this season, but at least publicly, he has no axe to grind with his former boss.

"I hope he does well at Inter as he has done in other countries," said Shevchenko. "He is a coach who knows what he wants."

by soccer news

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English Premiership Football News ( 28 August 2008 )

Liverpool through but are they good enough to challenge Chelsea and Manchester United?

Clueless. No width. No ideas. No penetration. All these things have been said about Liverpool last night before Dirk Kuyt the 118th minute winning goal against the champions of Belgium Standard Liege.

When Kuyt side-foot home an excellent cross Babel at the end after this meant that Liverpool had just about managed to scrape in the group stages of the Champions League. It was a result neutral May have felt a little unfair.

The fact is that the qualification is especially important, and how Liverpool have is largely irrelevant. If Steven Gerrard is holding aloft the trophy of the Champions League next May after Liverpool win for the sixth time, nobody remembers how poor they looked very ordinary against the Liege side in the qualifying round.

The concern for Liverpool fans after the game is that the prospect of a Champions League win or, dare I say, a challenge for the Premier League title, seems farther than ever.

However, Liverpool have won their two league games with late goals in unimpressive fashion as well and they have settled for six points and Champions League qualification, a few weeks ago. They say that great teams win when they do not play well. Liverpool are certainly not play. If or not they are a great team is more open to question.

After Liverpool was a bit of luck to leave Liege with a goalless draw in the first stage, they were expected to show an improvement at home. It was not the case and during the last night's game at Anfield they survived the early alerts when Pepe Reina has produced two excellent saves.

Liverpool lack of width was easily exposed by Liege, which deals comfortably with the home side attempted attacks by the middle of their defence.

When Liverpool finally have a view on a target area, the enigma is that Dirk Kuyt heading a head of the post disappointing wide just before half-time.

Liege sat back after half time and tried to contain Liverpool and click on the break.

The game has become a less exciting affair as Liverpool and Huff blown, but not quality product. They continued to fight to find a way through their opponents well-organized, without ever really look like doing so.

Just before full-time Liverpool has a moment of real concern when De Camargo had a chance to dive head he has made just wide of the post. Had it been, few people have begrudged Standard Liege victory they would probably have roughly deserved.

In extra-time Liverpool pressed forward, again without much purpose, but they were then denied a clear penalty when Oguchi Onyewu reduced Nabil El Zhar. The decision to play by the Swiss referee was a mystifying effect as it is well placed to see the flagrant misconduct.

Then came the goal which won by the man who can do no wrong Rafa Benitez in the eyes. Indeed, Dirk Kuyt has often produced the goods in big games and have scored a few goals more important than he poached last night. The fact is that Benitez is solely responsible in Europe that would have been Kuyt on the ground in the 118th minute. It was terrible.

Benitez was quick to praise the much criticised Dutch international after the match and it should have been. May It must be clear that it still has a job to him! "We must give credit Kuyt because sometimes when he made a mistake people highlight. But you could see for 120 minutes how he works hard and he is an incredible player for each team. He never hides and is the kind of player who is very important and it is a fantastic professional. "

Liverpool fans this morning, especially hearing the news that Steven Gerrard will be for some time because of a groin problem and will miss games at Manchester United, feel a mixture of relief and anxiety.

They know that their team contains a huge quantity and quality that at times they can be a match for anyone. They also know that this is a season where they must prove they are up there with the best.

They did what they should do, but they have not done with any style or any suggestion that they have what it takes to contest the first two. Time will tell if they can close the gap but the show last night suggests that they still have some way to go.

by soccernews.com

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English Premiership Football News ( 28 August 2008 )

Better news for Everton

A difficult start to the season for all at Everton could be set to take a turn for the better with the news that they are set to complete the signing of midfielder Segundo Castillo from Red Star Belgrade, subject to a medical.

The twenty-six year-old Ecuador international with over thirty caps for his country will join Everton if the medical and the work permit application are both successful.

There hasn’t been much good news at Goodison Park over the past few weeks and this transfer following on from their win at West Brom at the weekend should lighten the mood a little and let David Moyes get on with the job of managing his team.
(Source - BBC)

by soccernews.com

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English Premiership Football News ( 28 August 2008 )

I want Shaun Wright-Phillips, says Mark Hughes

Manchester City manager Mark Hughes has said that he desperately wants to sign Shaun Wright-Phillips.

Speaking before his departure for Herning in Denmark before their UEFA Cup fixture against Midtjylland he said that he hoped to have the England winger signed before the transfer window ended on Monday 1 September.

The twenty six year old Wright-Phillips first made a name for himself when he played for Manchester City before having been transferred to Chelsea.

However the player’s agent Wayne Lindsay has repeatedly said that he would do everything in his power to ensure that his player secures his future at Stamford Bridge.

Meanwhile Hughes has also displayed some interest in Craig Bellamy who played under him for both his country Wales and Blackburn Rovers.

by Soccernews.com

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English Premiership Football News ( 28 August 2008 )

Korean defender Lee joins Borussia Dortmund

South Korea defender Lee Young-Pyo left to join Tottenham German club Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday.

Lee has played 93 times for the Premier League side after his move from PSV Eindhoven in August 2005, but fell out of favour at White Hart Lane after the arrival of the Spanish manager Juande Ramos last season.

The 31-year-old, capped 97 times by South Korea, accepted a one-year contract with Dortmund, who needed a new left-after Dede has been banned for six months with knee ligament damage.

A statement on Tottenham's website confirmed the departure of Lee: "We wish him every success for the future," said club. Wednesday, the new Tottenham manager Juande Ramos continues precise player.

Republic of Ireland international striker Robbie Keane was the highest profile departure, departure to Liverpool for 20.3million pounds - Roman Pavlyuchenko tipped to replace him.

The Russian striker claimed Tuesday he was going to Tottenham after a verbal agreement was concluded between the north Londoners and his club Spartak Moscow.

"I can confirm that I am joining Spurs," he said. "At the moment, I am my visa. Once it is ready I will travel to London to sign a contract.

" The only remaining big question mark is whether Ramos for Bulgarian striker Dimitar Berbatov wanted to move to Manchester United will be completed when the transfer window closes on Monday.

Spurs are short on strikers, even if Bulgaria fails to meet a move to Manchester United before the transfer window closes on Monday.

by Soccernews.com

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Portsmouth VS Manchester United
( Deco )

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English Premiership Football News ( 27 August 2008 )

Senderos to join Milan on loan

The hunt for a defender has finally ended as AC Milan have signed centre back Philippe Senderos on loan from Arsenal.

Italian club AC Milan paid Arsenal 2 million Euros with the option to buy the player at the end of the season for another 8 million.

The 23 year old Swiss international joins newly acquired Andriy Shevchenko in the span of 3 days as Milan look to win their first scudetto since 2004.

by Soccernews.com

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English Premiership Football News ( 28 August 2008 )

Bellamy not for sale, insist West Ham

West Ham chief executive officer Scott Duxbury insists Craig Bellamy is not for sale after reports claimed Manchester City were set to bid for Wales striker.

City are believed to be keen to land Bellamy before the transfer window closes next week but Duxbury is adamant there is no chance the former Liverpool star being allowed to leave.

"West Ham United have absolutely no intention of selling Craig Bellamy," he told the club website. "He is under contract and is committed to the club. Craig remains a very important part of our plans for the future.

"The club is currently on sound business principles and football to develop a team that can ensure the success of this season. No player would be bought or sold, except that have contributed to achieve this objective."

Anton Ferdinand's imminent move to Sunderland and Freddie Ljungberg the recent release led to the suggestion Hammers were trying to offload their high income.

But Duxbury said: "If a player refuses to sign a new contract or is not crucial for the manager plans then we will consider offers on a case by case basis. This is the only way to build for the future."

by Soccernews.com

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English Premiership Football News ( 27 August 2008 )

Robinho set to leave Real: agent

Robinho is closing in a step to Chelsea after the Brazilian side admitted the agent of Real Madrid star is about to leave the Bernabeu.

Chelsea have had several offers for Robinho rejected by the Spanish champion, but coach Luiz Felipe Scolari wants to make an agreement and the Blues are ready with another bid of around 27 million pounds (33 million).

Robinho, who is desperate to leave Spain, was a boo Real fans during a match at the weekend and his agent Wagner Ribeiro expects the issue to be resolved before the closure of the transfer window.

"The agreement is about to be reached," Ribeiro said in the Daily Mirror. "Robinho cycle in Spain has come to an end and looked forward to a new project."

Meanwhile, Chelsea, reportedly would be willing to let Shaun Wright-Phillips join Manchester City space on the template Robinho.

by Soccernews.com

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English Premiership Football News ( 27 August 2008 )

Gokhan Inler snubs the Gunners

Arsène Wenger was snubbed by Gokhan Inler midfield target.

According to the Telegraph, Arsenal had hoped to agree a £ 8 million fee for the 24 years old Swiss international, but the player himself has put an end to speculation that claims to want to remain in Serie A.

The player's agent, Dino Lambrini, reportedly said, "We have decided that Inler Udinese remains in".

"Every player wants to play for Arsenal of course, but for Inler this may be perhaps a little 'in advance. Maybe a season too early."

Wenger is now able to concentrate its energies on Liverpool's Xabi Alonso, but with Gareth Barry's proposed move to Anfield apparently dead, to ensure Spanish may prove too difficult.

Following the departure of Mathieu Flamini, Gilberto Silva and Alexander Hleb, Wenger priority this summer was to recruit a central midfielder.

This was the lack of availability for the French Last Saturday he was forced to play Emmanuel Eboue in central midfield against Fulham, a match Arsenal lost 1-0.

[Source: The Telegraph]
by Soccernews.com

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English Premiership Football News ( 27 August 2008 )

Chelsea ready to release Wright-Phillips

According to the Telegraph, Chelsea has put Shaun Wright Phillips up for sale with an asking price of £9million.

Everton, Portsmouth and Manchester City are touted to be the suitors for the 26-year old right-winger.

Son of famous footballer Ian Wright, the English international first starred at Manchester City and made a £21 million move to Stamford Bridge in 2005. He never fully cemented his place in the team and was usually used in rotation with Joe Cole. With the departure of Mourinho his apperances seemed to dwindle even more.

Now with the coming of new manager Luiz Scolari, it seems that Phillips does not figure in his plans, with the Brazilian coach hot in pursuit of his countryman Robinho.

[Source: The Telegraph]

by Soccernews.com

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English Premiership Football News ( 26 August 2008 )

Bellamy to leave West Ham for Man City?

The Telegraph reports that West Ham forward Craig Bellamy could possibly make a switch to Manchester City this week.

Huge salaries were awarded to ageing or injury-prone players such as Freddie Ljungberg, Bellamy and Kieron Dyer who, along with Scott Parker and Lucas Neill earn annual salaries in excess of £3 million.

With the Upton Park board determined to reduce the club’s wage bill, and having already paid off Freddie Ljungberg’s contract this summer, it now appears they are open to offers for the Welsh international.

City manager Mark Hughes is searching for another forward after long-term target Roque Santa Cruz decided to commit his long-term future to Rovers signing a four-year contract.

Hughes has worked with Bellamy before while he was in charge of the Welsh national team, and is seeking a strike partner for Brazilian Jo, who moved to Eastlands this summer.

[Source: The Telegragh]

by Soccernews.com

Fa barclaycard Premiership News

English Premiership Football News ( 27 August 2008 )

Everton sign Denmark´s Jacobsen

Everton manager David Moyes finally landed a new signing on Tuesday as Denmark defender Lars Jacobsen joined the Premiership club on a free transfer.
Jacobsen, 28, agreed a one-year deal after being released by German club Nuremberg last season and the right-back could make his debut in Saturday's Premiership fixture against Portsmouth.

Moyes had found it impossible to bring in new signings since the end of last season and injuries forced him to field several youth academy graduates in Everton's win at West Bromwich on Saturday.

The Toffees boss hopes Jacobsen is the first of several arrivals after suggesting he wants “six or seven” new players before the transfer window shuts next week.

by soccernews.com

Fa barclaycard Premiership News

English Premiership Football News ( 26 August 2008 )

Premiership week two: Who’s HOT and who’s NOT

Hot team
Newly promoted Stoke City taught Aston Villa and perhaps the rest of the Premiership should not be underestimated this season - especially the Britannia Stadium.

The buoy by an energetic crowd Potteries, Stoke played with confidence and ability, but some clearly against Villa by title.

Mamady Sidibe strike secured a 3-2 victory which saw the club currently above the likes of Tottenham and Portsmouth in the league table.

Fellow new boys Hull City continued their impressive start campaign with a 1-1 draw at Blackburn, while Fulham inflicted the biggest upset of the weekend with a 1-0 victory over Arsenal.

No hot team
It's sad… northward. North London, it goes without saying.

Tottenham produced their second performance teeth as many weeks on Saturday, being beaten 2-1 by Sunderland at White Hart Lane. With Dimitar Berbatov excluded from the team not to be "in the right frame of mind" to play according to Juande Ramos, Spurs have not any threat of attack.

It is a great week for the club and the failure to bring in at least one new front man before the transfer window closes on 1st September could be catastrophic.

Patron Arsenal Arsène Wenger admitted his side lower in their 1-0 defeat to Fulham. The Gunners managing just one shot on target all night and besides marking Brede Hangeland the goal was non-existent.

Hot Keeper
In the first choice Middlesbrough goalkeeper Brad Jones injured in the warm-up before the clash with Liverpool boss Gareth Southgate must have feared the worst.

But 23-year-old stand-in goalkeeper Ross Turnbull more than proved its value as Boro came close to snatching a shock victory at Anfield. Mido gave Boro a 1-0 lead 69 minutes and Turnbull made a number of fine saves to maintain that lead. His confidence grew throughout the day the culmination of his work has been an excellent reflex save to deny Steven Gerrard scores a thunderous free kick.

End goals gave Liverpool a 2-1 penalty-deserved victory, but Turnbull poster will be one of Boro can take many positives of the game despite the defeat.

No holder hot
Brad Friedel considered far to ensure its self Villa in the 3-2 defeat at Stoke.
In addition to concede three goals, the American participated in a number of embarrassing defensive mix-ups. A communication breakdown between him and defender Martin Laursen Stoke Ricardo Fuller presented with an objective to open a stage in the match.
Hopefully for Villa, it was just a blip in the form of an excellent goalkeeper in general.

Hot Defender
Anthony Gardner looked out of his depth as a defender of the Premiership for Tottenham Hotspur, but a change of club seems to have done him well.

He played a key role in the hull of the excellent early season and was the man pre-game for their excellent call to Blackburn on Saturday. As the mobilization his defence superbly, Gardner also held Blackburn Roque Santa Cruz quiet all afternoon.

Defender not hot
Ledley King's ability to produce excellent performances in the few games he has played for the Spurs last season were impressive, given the current player on knee problems.

King was unable to continue heroism upon his return to the Tottenham first team on Saturday, looking out kind of game and lack of sharpness.

To be a real force in the Premiership this season, the Spurs need a form and the form of Ledley King. The fear of Juande Ramos is that May never be a reality.

Midfielder hot
Thus, in the World Cup rarely do we see a player worthy of the tag "complete midfielder." But in Deco, Chelsea and the Premier League May found only one.

His passing, shooting, management and technical ability was again demonstrated on Sunday as the Blues beat Wigan 1-0. Had it not been for the Portuguese star, this result could have been different.
Deco magnificent 25-yard free kick must surely be a competitor of the goal of the month. His long-range could be even higher.

Midfielder not hot
Few can argue that on the day, Arsenal play the best football in the Premiership. However, on the first four, it is also difficult to deny that the Gunners have less strength in depth. The case in point, their 1-0 defeat to Fulham on Saturday.
Reserve midfielder Denilson proved why it is exactly that offers little in terms of movement or creativity. Having been a number of seasons to develop, the clarity of his Brazilian-May be a little depth to the Emirates.

Hot Striker
Ricardo Fuller scored one of the best goals of the weekend in Stoke 3-2 victory over Aston Villa.
The forward collected a ball from Liam Lawrence with his back to goal, get started on his shoulder running past Luke Young and Martin Laursen in the process before rifling home.
Magic stuff.

Striker not hot
Dimitar Berbatov is the accolade for a second consecutive week not even be mentally fit for selection for the Spurs Sunderland.His Thursday with a desire to move to Manchester United is clear and without doubt, Bulgaria will get the move, there must surely wants.But better ways to get what you want, effectively only by the strike for the weekend.

by soccernews

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English Premiership Football Result (25 August 2008)

Portsmouth 0 - 1 Manchester U.

Resource by : livescore.com

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English Premiership Football News ( 25 August 2008 )

Ramos wants quick end to Berbatov saga

Tottenham manager Juande Ramos wants to get the unsettling Dimitar Berbatov transfer situation resolved this week, suggesting the Bulgaria striker will get his wish to move to Manchester

United.

The Bulgaria striker was left out of Spurs' 2-1 defeat to Sunderland on Saturday after it was decided he was in the wrong frame of mind to play amid interest from United.

And with just a week to go until the closure of the transfer window, Ramos has called for the saga to be brought to an end so that he can bring in a replacement.
“We need to get this matter resolved before the transfer deadline,” the Spaniard told the club's website.

“If Berbatov goes, we will need time to sign a replacement. We want to have the best centre forward we can possibly get.”
A meeting was held between the manager, player and club directors on Sunday in a bid to bring the saga to a conclusion.

Berbatov arrived from Bayer Leverkusen two seasons ago for a fee of 15 million euros.

by soccernews.com

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English Premiership Football News ( 25 August 2008 )
West Ham accept Sunderland bid for Ferdinand: BBC

West Ham defender Anton Ferdinand is Sunderland-bound after the London club accepted a bid reported to be approaching eight million pounds, Hammers boss Alan Curbishley said on Sunday.
The 23-year-old is now allegedly considering the move up to the north east of England.
Curbishley, whose team lost 3-0 in the Premier League at Manchester City on Sunday, told BBC Radio 5 Live: “The board have accepted the bid - he's not renegotiated his contract - and the decision was taken out of my hands.
“I don't know where Anton is in terms of signing for Sunderland - but once the club accept the bid it moves on.”
Ferdinand's current contract is set to end in 2010.
by soccernews.com

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English Premiership Football Hilights Clips VDO Goal!!

Wigan 0-1 Chelsea ( 24 August 2008 )



Wigan VS Chelsea
( Deco )

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News ( 24 August 2008 )

Impressive City win overshadowed by Richards injury

Manchester City's 3-0 Premiership win convincingly over 10-man West Ham here on Saturday might have impressed Fabio Capello, but Micah Richards' hospitalization caused concern.

England defender Richards heads clashes with the City team-mate Tal Ben Haim shortly after the break and was taken to hospital after receiving oxygen and a neck just before being stretchered off the pitch Eastlands.

West Ham's Mark Noble was sent off in the first half for a second bookable offence visitors to set up against him.

The goals came from Daniel Sturridge midway through the second half with two others Elano Blumer, leaving them to sail to victory.

Manchester City manager Mark Hughes handed over a first at the age of 22 Belgian Vincent Kompany following his transfer from Bundesliga club Hamburg last week for a fee which would be 12.5 million, and he was the official man - the-match.

The Belgium international was one of four changes from last week defeat to Aston Villa. Michael Ball, Stephen Ireland and Sturridge are all included in Hughes starting eleven.

Dean Ashton and Scott Parker had recovered from calf and thigh injuries last week following the victory of Wigan.

City could have come in the 12th minute after a move initiated by Lucas Neill a corner. A chance by Ireland was cleared off the line by Calum Davenport and in the scrum the ball bounced off the crossbar.

In the 37th minute, Noble received his second yellow card for a challenge on Johnson and was sent to change the hue of the party.

England manager Capello was watching the gap has been a Chelsea win 1-0 at Wigan earlier in the day before making the short trip to Manchester. City owner Thaksin Shinawatra has also been on finding the margin and warmly applauded the goals.

After the break, West Ham United's Hayden Mullins has come for Freddie Sears, who ironically has replaced Carlton Cole who was injured following a clash with Ben Haim.

Then came the Richards' medical incident and worked hard on the ground for more than five minutes before carrying him off on a stretcher.

Initial reports said he went directly to the hospital and, despite having been given oxygen and was wearing a neck brace, it does not necessarily mean that it is very serious because they are sometimes used as a precaution . German Dietmar Hamann has come for Richards.

From Downer Richards' injury, City emerged for the top three goals in 11 minutes.

Sturridge scored his first goal in the City of Manchester Stadium in the 65th minute and celebrated the victory with a jig.

Following a cross from the left, Hammers defender Matthew Upson not clear the ball without height or distance, leaving Sturridge rifle the ball into the roof of the net from 10 metres left foot past keeper Richard Green.

Elano scored the second city of 20 minutes to go although there were signs he had been previously due to the exit.

Ireland Dinka face the ball to the right of the box with his back to goal and Elano has done well with a balloon at a height difficult, however, to drop the ball home left-footed into the bottom right corner of Green goal.

Hughes was particularly pleased Elano he had not withdrawn when he scored his second and third largest city, once again set up by Ireland in the 76th minute.

Ireland has shown his pace to exceed an advocate of the right-hand bi-line, then cut the ball to Elano to exploit easily the ball home just outside the six yard box.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership Result

English Premiership Football Result (24 August 2008)

Wigan Athletic 0 - 1 Chelsea

Manchester City 3 - 0 West Ham United

Resource by : livescore.com