English Premiership Kick Off.
27 September 2008
Everton 0 - 2 Liverpool
Aston Villa 2 - 1 Sunderland
Fulham 1 - 2 West Ham U.
27 September 2008
Everton 0 - 2 Liverpool
Aston Villa 2 - 1 Sunderland
Fulham 1 - 2 West Ham U.
27 September 2008
Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update
Fa Barclaycard Premiership News( 27 September 2008 )
English Premiership Football News
Gerrard 'key' to Merseyside derby
Venue: Goodison Park Date: Saturday, September 27 Kick-off: 1245 Paris
Coverage: Full commentary on BBC Radio Merseyside 95.8 FM, 1485 MW and DAB, Sport website, BBC Radio 5 Live, Final Score & Highlights on match day
Rival managers David Moyes and Rafael Benitez agreed Steven Gerrard Reds midfielder will be key to the outcome of Saturday Everton-Liverpool derby.
Goodison Park hosted the 208th clash between the clubs, with the Reds hope to extend their series only two defeats in 10 visits to Everton.
And Benitez said: "Everybody knows that Steve is a key
for us in these games and more. It may be indestructible.""They are a quality side and Steven is the heartbeat," said Moyes.
"I think I would like to emphasize Steven and Jamie Carragher, they know what it is and I do not only Derby but in general.
"They are the heart and soul of the club and because they are boys and they know what that means."
Liverpool must win the match, it will represent the club the best start ever for a campaign of Premier League after six matches.
And Benitez said: "Everybody knows that Steve is a key for us. He can change games, win games and if he does not play well I can still score and win matches for us. He mentality and passion for these games and it is important to all other players. "
Liverpool completed the double over last season, Everton, and lost two of their last 17 meetings with their neighbors.
But Benitez is seeking local beyond this skirmish, saying: "We started the season well. We are improving.
"But we are only 60% of our potential at present. If we continue to improve closer to what we want."
Referee Mike Riley in May to be a long afternoon. There were seven network cards in the last seven meetings between the clubs and 16 in 32 Premier League clashes.
And Benitez added: "There were many red cards in those games, and because the players are under pressure. But it is more, these players are mature and able to handle the situation better.
"I do not enjoy it if we win. Avance and during the match it can be very difficult."
Moyes claims Liverpool, Everton, and not, are more likely to Dole to the therapeutic, saying: "They (past Derby) were hotly contested, and I'm sure this will happen.
"I think in general, the team that won is stuck in Liverpool. They have been very aggressive, I think Alex Ferguson said last week about their style at present. They are a team very difficult. "
For their part, Everton fans will not be BUOY by Moyes' team frank admission that his suffering is a collective dip in confidence following their recent performance.
His side failed to keep a clean sheet this season - or take a single point at home in the Premier League - and they crashed out of the Carling Cup in the week following a defeat against Blackburn.
But Moyes is convinced the lack of trust is only temporary and is determined to help his team through it.
"I'd be lying if I said we were bumbling and brimming with confidence," he said. "But my job is to put this right and you should be prepared to take risks.
"My job as manager is to find solutions and results and increase confidence that this will lead to better performance."
[Source by bbcnews]
26 September 2008
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Fa Barclaycard Premiership News( 24 September 2008 )
English Premiership Football News
Goalkeeper Keeper Robinson out for two weeks
Blackburn goalkeeper Paul Robinson was ruled out for two weeks after his calf injury in Rovers' Carling Cup victory over Everton.
The 29 years will miss this weekend of the Premier League game against Rovers and Newcastle's home clash against Manchester United, on October 4.
England keeper of the reserve is a doubt for the World Cup qualifying against Kazakhstan on October 11.
It is also unlikely to make the trip from England to Belarus four days later.
Robinson, who was on The Substitute "the England bench for the 4-1 win in Croatia on September 10, was forced to leave after 12 minutes against Everton on Wednesday.
He added Paul Ince to the injury problems before Saturday's match at St James' Park as Rovers boss is already without David Dunn, Vince Grella, Steven Reid, Aaron Mokoena and Benni McCarthy.
Ince told the club website: "The doctor and told me that Robb will be (for) a couple of weeks with a calf pull.
"It is disappointing because he has absolutely fantastic against Fulham, made two world class saves.
"When I came off something that I knew was not quite right. I do not want to leave for nothing, I do happen if I felt something and that obviously has been made transparent the next day. "
Robinson was replaced by Jason Brown during the 1-0 Wales and internationally is likely to replacement for the former goalkeeper for Tottenham in the coming weeks.
"Brown came on and looked comfortable, I have no qualms about putting him in goal, or mark Bunn in goal," added Ince.
"At the end of the day Robinson was for two weeks so they have to take their chance now."
[Source by bbcnews]
Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update
Fa Barclaycard Premiership News( 26 September 2008 )
English Premiership Football News
Sheff Utd players may sue Hammers
West Ham could face legal action over Carlos Tevez affair with players relegated Sheffield United.
At least 10 players, who have suffered financially after relegation in 2007, lawyers approaches for a claim for the Hammers.
Lawyer Chris Farnell said: 'I've been in contact with various stakeholders to research this claim, but at this point, I will say no more. "
Sheffield United are demanding £ 30m compensation to the London Club.
It appeared earlier in the week that the independence of the court ruled against West Ham in Tevez case.
The hammers plan an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
The blades request Tevez was not eligible to play at the end of the 2006/07 season, when he played a key role in West Ham top-flight survival at their expense.
Past and present players have had discussions with Farnell, the Manchester-IPS company law.
It is understood that they could claim for loss of earnings running into millions of pounds.
The latest development is in trouble in a week for West Ham.
New boss Gianfranco Zola saw his team, who are sixth in the Premier League, Knock Out of the Carling Cup to Championship side Watford.
The court ruling came as the club is always looking for a new shirt sponsor following the collapse of the company XL Holidays Travel.
Striker Carlton Cole was arrested by police in central London in 0425 in Paris on Tuesday on suspicion of drunk driving.
And before Dean Ashton could be for one month as the ankle he needs surgery.
[source by bbcnews]
25 September 2008
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Fa Barclaycard Premiership News( 25 September 2008 )
English Premiership Football News
Venables rejects Newcastle offer
Former England coach Terry Venables has turned down the chance to take over as Newcastle manager in a temporary capacity, BBC Sport understands.
Newcastle wanted to appoint Venables on a game-by-game deal but the 65-year-old preferred a fixed period contract.
Venables had been holding talks with director of football Dennis Wise and vice-president Tony Jimenez.
They are thought to have an alternative in mind, with Glenn Hoddle and David O'Leary both being linked with the job.
Newcastle had hoped to make an announcement over the vacant manager's position before the weekend as the Magpies try to find some stability in a season that is threatening to spiral out of control.
The club's Carling Cup exit to Tottenham on Wednesday was their third straight defeat since Kevin Keegan's resignation, while owner Mike Ashley is also intent on selling the club.
Venables, who is a close friend of Wise, has been out of work for nearly a year after he was sacked as assistant to former England coach Steve McClaren in November 2007.
In an interview with BBC Sport on 18 September, Venables said the so-called foreign model of a head coach and director of football could work but only if the roles are clearly defined.
He said: "It works if everyone's in agreement, if you're in agreement with the situation as a manager then fine. But if you say no and then it's implementing change that is when the problems come in.
"I think the parameters of a manager's job have got to be clearly defined."
Since Keegan left the club over a dispute regarding control of player transfers, Newcastle have lurched from one crisis to the next.
Billionaire Ashley, who has pumped £250m into the club, has said he is unable to watch the Newcastle team due to fears over his family's safety.
"I'm now a dad who can't take his kids to a football game because I am advised that we would be assaulted," he said earlier this month.
And their search for a manager, either on an interim or permanent basis, has proved equally problematic.
Venables was England's coach between 1994 and 1996.
He made his name in management with spells at Crystal Palace and Queens Park Rangers before his exploits saw him appointed Barcelona coach.
He was dubbed El Tel and guided the club to a Spanish League title, a League Cup win and a European Cup final - which they lost on penalties to Steaua Bucharest - before being sacked in September 1987.
He took over at Tottenham later that year and won the FA Cup with the club in 1991 before taking a role upstairs as chief executive at White Hart Lane as Sir Alan Sugar took over the club.
But a deteriorating relationship between the two led to his acrimonious exit in November 1993, which saw matters end up in the High Court.
After a two-year spell as England coach which culminated in reaching the semi-finals of Euro 96, he had an unhappy spell as consultant and chairman of Portsmouth and failed in his attempts to lead Australia to qualification for the 1998 World Cup.
A foray back at Palace did not go well as the club found itself struggling for money and form.
Venables restored some of his ailing reputation when he was brought in as Bryan Robson's assistant at Middlesbrough and helped the club avoid relegation in 2000.
He did not stay at the Riverside long and went on to manage Leeds in July 2002 but left less than a year later as the club spiralled into financial crisis.
Hull City boss Phil Brown, who hails from the North East, told the BBC: "You can't get anyone with more experience than Terry.
"What Newcastle need is somebody of that ilk. Whether Terry Venables is the right man, is their (Newcastle's) decision."
Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update
Fa Barclaycard Premiership News( 25 September 2008 )
English Premiership Football News
Magpies talks with Venables stall
Newcastle talks with Terry Venables over appointment of the former coach of England their interim manager have reached a stalemate, BBC Sport understands.
Newcastle want to appoint Venables on a match by match basis but 65 years is a longer-term supply.
Venables has held talks with director of football Dennis Wise and vice-president Tony Jimenez.
Newcastle had hoped to make an announcement before the weekend that the Magpie try to find some stability.
Newcastle Carling Cup exit to Tottenham on Wednesday was their third loss since Kevin Keegan's resignation, with owner Mike Ashley want to sell following protests from fans on the departure of Keegan as manager, on September 4.
Venables, who is a close friend of Wise, has been without work for nearly a year later, he was assistant bag as the former England coach Steve McClaren in November 2007.
In an interview with BBC Sport, September 18, Venables said the so-called model of another head coach and director of football, but could work only if the roles are clearly defined.
He said: "It works if everyone agrees, whether you agree with the position as manager, then fine. But if you say no, and then it implement the change is that when problems arise
"I think the parameters of a manager of employment have been clearly defined."
Keegan since left the club on a dispute over control of transfers of players, Newcastle have been in free fall.
And in the wake of protests by supporters, billionaire Ashley, who has pumped £ 250m into the club, decided to sell the club in trouble.
Ashley said he is unable to watch the team from Newcastle because of fears about his family to safety.
"I am now a quality that can not take her children to a football match because I am informed that we would aggression," he said earlier this month.
Venables was the coach of England between 1994 and 1996.
He made his name in management spells at Crystal Palace and Queens Park Rangers before his exploits have appointed coach of Barcelona.
It was Dubber The Tel and guided the club to a Spanish League title, to win the League Cup final and European Cup - who lost on penalties to Steaua Bucharest - bag prior to September 1987.
He took over at Tottenham later this year and won the FA Cup with the club in 1991 before taking a role as head of the executive floor at White Hart Lane as Sir Alan Sugar took the club .
But a deterioration of relations between the two led to his acrimonious exit in November 1993, which saw matters end of the High Court.
After a two-year spell as England coach that led to reach the semi-finals of Euro 96, he had an unhappy spell as consultant and president of Portsmouth and failed in its attempts to lead the Australia to qualification for the 1998 World Cup.
A foray back at Palace not going well that the club is struggling for money and form.
Venables restored some of its ill reputation when he was brought in as Bryan Robson's assistant at Middlesbrough and helped to avoid relegation club in 2000.
He did not stay throughout Riverside and then to manage Leeds in July 2002, but still less than a year later, as the club spiraling financial crisis.
Hull City boss Phil Brown, who comes from the North-East, told the BBC: "You can not get anyone with more experience than Terry.
"What is that Newcastle need someone who ilk. What Terry Venables is the right man, they (Newcastle) decision."
[Source by bbcnews]
24 September 2008
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( 24 September 2008 )
( 24 September 2008 )
Pogatetz regrets Possebon tackle
Middlesbrough's Emanuel Pogatetz to Rodrigo Possebon apologized for the tackle that left the Manchester United player needing hospital treatment.
Pogatetz was returned during Manchester United 3-1 in the Carling Cup to win a challenge that anger United manager Sir Alex Ferguson.
Possebon was stretchered off but has not broken his leg the first time that fear.
Pogatetz, the Basque skipper, said he "misjudged his challenge" Possebon and wished "a speedy recovery."
"Firstly, I must say that I went to the fight against because I thought I could win the ball - I now accept, however, that I misjudged the challenge," said the Pogatetz club's official website.
"Immediately after the incident, I do not think it is a network card offense because I did win the ball.
"But now I only have I had the chance to see the address on television, I know the ref was right to send me off.
"I will speak by telephone to Rodrigo and I apologize for him harm. I hope he will make a speedy recovery and that it will not be for long."
The challenge came in the 66th minute of the third round match at Old Trafford and the left by 19 years or six minutes of treatment before it is removed.
He was taken to hospital and Manchester United confirmed Wednesday that Brazil, who was making his first start for United, has not broken his leg.
A statement on United's website: "We can confirm that Rodrigo has not suffered a fracture of his right leg.
"He was kept in hospital for observation and assess whether there is ligament damage to his knee."
The incident was condemned by an angry Ferguson, who was not satisfied with the response Pogatetz for the red card.
"It was an absolutely terrible tackle," he said. "What is my challenge as the one who is always the opponent says he has done nothing wrong.
"Pogatetz must have left the ground."
Ferguson also expressed his disappointment with the reaction of certain officials of Middlesbrough, who complain that Pogatetz apparently received a network adapter for the foul.
"They Screaming bench that it was not a sending and there is nothing wrong with our player," added Ferguson.
"At least Middlesbrough manager Gareth Southgate has been very good about it. I apologized and understand the seriousness. "
Southgate grant Pogatetz deserve to be sent.
"We can have no complaints about the decision," he confirmed.
"It is difficult to know why it happened. It was an aberration unusual for him because his discipline has improved over the past two years.
"A couple of guys on our bench does not have the same view as I did, but is now treated. We can only hope that the young man recovers."
Pogatetz will miss the next three matches Middlesbrough, while Southgate could take disciplinary action.
Middlesbrough's Emanuel Pogatetz to Rodrigo Possebon apologized for the tackle that left the Manchester United player needing hospital treatment.
Pogatetz was returned during Manchester United 3-1 in the Carling Cup to win a challenge that anger United manager Sir Alex Ferguson.
Possebon was stretchered off but has not broken his leg the first time that fear.
Pogatetz, the Basque skipper, said he "misjudged his challenge" Possebon and wished "a speedy recovery."
"Firstly, I must say that I went to the fight against because I thought I could win the ball - I now accept, however, that I misjudged the challenge," said the Pogatetz club's official website.
"Immediately after the incident, I do not think it is a network card offense because I did win the ball.
"But now I only have I had the chance to see the address on television, I know the ref was right to send me off.
"I will speak by telephone to Rodrigo and I apologize for him harm. I hope he will make a speedy recovery and that it will not be for long."
The challenge came in the 66th minute of the third round match at Old Trafford and the left by 19 years or six minutes of treatment before it is removed.
He was taken to hospital and Manchester United confirmed Wednesday that Brazil, who was making his first start for United, has not broken his leg.
A statement on United's website: "We can confirm that Rodrigo has not suffered a fracture of his right leg.
"He was kept in hospital for observation and assess whether there is ligament damage to his knee."
The incident was condemned by an angry Ferguson, who was not satisfied with the response Pogatetz for the red card.
"It was an absolutely terrible tackle," he said. "What is my challenge as the one who is always the opponent says he has done nothing wrong.
"Pogatetz must have left the ground."
Ferguson also expressed his disappointment with the reaction of certain officials of Middlesbrough, who complain that Pogatetz apparently received a network adapter for the foul.
"They Screaming bench that it was not a sending and there is nothing wrong with our player," added Ferguson.
"At least Middlesbrough manager Gareth Southgate has been very good about it. I apologized and understand the seriousness. "
Southgate grant Pogatetz deserve to be sent.
"We can have no complaints about the decision," he confirmed.
"It is difficult to know why it happened. It was an aberration unusual for him because his discipline has improved over the past two years.
"A couple of guys on our bench does not have the same view as I did, but is now treated. We can only hope that the young man recovers."
Pogatetz will miss the next three matches Middlesbrough, while Southgate could take disciplinary action.
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English Premiership Football News ( 24 September 2008 )
West Ham ponder tribunal ruling
West Ham say they will take legal advice because they consider to appeal against a tribunal hearing in the Carlos Tevez affair.
The court ruled against West Ham over the Tevez affair, according to Sheffield United chairman Kevin McCabe.
Calls United Tevez was not eligible to play at the end of 2006 / 7 season, played a key role in West Ham Premiership survival at their expense.
The club claimed more than £ 30 million in compensation from West Ham.
The court will decide on the amount of compensation to be paid at a later meeting, probably early next year.
West Ham will now take legal advice before deciding their next move.
"The club needs to digest the full results of the arbitration panel and consult lawyers before considering the next steps that could address this issue," the club said in a statement.
West Ham insisted in the statement that the potential outcome of the hearing and compensation they may have to pay has nothing to do with the transfer of the summer of Anton Ferdinand, George McCartney, Bobby Zamora and John Pantsil.
"Regarding the club of transfer activity this summer, we made no assumptions in terms of the arbitration and were only informed of the decision on Friday," said club.
"The only considerations were taken into account our previously stated the improvement in the first team with players of quality.
"We are delighted with the signing and also the club were able to dismiss a large number of tenders for the first team players during the summer."
The Football Association of the rule states that K5c by subscribing to arbitration, the parties are deemed to have irrevocably waived any right to appeal, review or recourse to a court of law. "
This excludes the right to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, and only a very small possibility of challenging the validity of the award in the Commercial Court.
West Ham were found guilty last April to act badly and documentation essential property of Argentina duo Tevez and Javier Mascherano when they signed in 2006.
A three-man Premier League arbitration panel to pay a fine of £ 5.5m Hammers, but did not dock points, and they survive the fall of the last day, while Sheffield United were relegated.
Having failed in their attempt to have the original punishment overturned, the Yorkshire invoked a football club rule that allows clubs with a legal dispute to go before an independent tribunal.
McCabe told his club's official website: "I can confirm that the two clubs were informed of the decision. The arbitration panel has granted in our favor.
"The question is still legally in progress so I do not wish to comment further until we have completed this process."
A club statement added: "The blades began their fight for reinstatement some 16 months, which also included an arbitration hearing against the Premier League.
"This award could question now that will make the Premier League."
Neil Warnock, who was director blade during 2006 / 7 season and is now at Crystal Palace, told BBC Sport: "It's finally justice. Fortunately, it went to an independent tribunal, they have heard all the facts and the truth is finally out. "
Sheffield United of the application was considered by former MCC president Lord Griffiths, Sir Anthony Colman, a former judge of the High Court, and Robert Englehart QC.
The Football Association stress that the process was independent and that it "did not judge on this case ... have an influence on the decision (or) to appoint the members of the Court. "
Tevez and Mascherano, who now plays for Manchester United and Liverpool, respectively, were brought to Upton Park from Brazilian club Corinthians on the last day of summer 2006 transfer window.
With nine matches remaining in the 2006/07 season, West Ham were anchored to the bottom of the Premier League and 10 points drift of security, while Sheffield United are two places above the drop zone.
Tevez scored after five goals, including the winner against Manchester United at Old Trafford on the last day of the season, West Ham to ensure survival.
English Premiership Football News ( 24 September 2008 )
West Ham ponder tribunal ruling
West Ham say they will take legal advice because they consider to appeal against a tribunal hearing in the Carlos Tevez affair.
The court ruled against West Ham over the Tevez affair, according to Sheffield United chairman Kevin McCabe.
Calls United Tevez was not eligible to play at the end of 2006 / 7 season, played a key role in West Ham Premiership survival at their expense.
The club claimed more than £ 30 million in compensation from West Ham.
The court will decide on the amount of compensation to be paid at a later meeting, probably early next year.
West Ham will now take legal advice before deciding their next move.
"The club needs to digest the full results of the arbitration panel and consult lawyers before considering the next steps that could address this issue," the club said in a statement.
West Ham insisted in the statement that the potential outcome of the hearing and compensation they may have to pay has nothing to do with the transfer of the summer of Anton Ferdinand, George McCartney, Bobby Zamora and John Pantsil.
"Regarding the club of transfer activity this summer, we made no assumptions in terms of the arbitration and were only informed of the decision on Friday," said club.
"The only considerations were taken into account our previously stated the improvement in the first team with players of quality.
"We are delighted with the signing and also the club were able to dismiss a large number of tenders for the first team players during the summer."
The Football Association of the rule states that K5c by subscribing to arbitration, the parties are deemed to have irrevocably waived any right to appeal, review or recourse to a court of law. "
This excludes the right to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, and only a very small possibility of challenging the validity of the award in the Commercial Court.
West Ham were found guilty last April to act badly and documentation essential property of Argentina duo Tevez and Javier Mascherano when they signed in 2006.
A three-man Premier League arbitration panel to pay a fine of £ 5.5m Hammers, but did not dock points, and they survive the fall of the last day, while Sheffield United were relegated.
Having failed in their attempt to have the original punishment overturned, the Yorkshire invoked a football club rule that allows clubs with a legal dispute to go before an independent tribunal.
McCabe told his club's official website: "I can confirm that the two clubs were informed of the decision. The arbitration panel has granted in our favor.
"The question is still legally in progress so I do not wish to comment further until we have completed this process."
A club statement added: "The blades began their fight for reinstatement some 16 months, which also included an arbitration hearing against the Premier League.
"This award could question now that will make the Premier League."
Neil Warnock, who was director blade during 2006 / 7 season and is now at Crystal Palace, told BBC Sport: "It's finally justice. Fortunately, it went to an independent tribunal, they have heard all the facts and the truth is finally out. "
Sheffield United of the application was considered by former MCC president Lord Griffiths, Sir Anthony Colman, a former judge of the High Court, and Robert Englehart QC.
The Football Association stress that the process was independent and that it "did not judge on this case ... have an influence on the decision (or) to appoint the members of the Court. "
Tevez and Mascherano, who now plays for Manchester United and Liverpool, respectively, were brought to Upton Park from Brazilian club Corinthians on the last day of summer 2006 transfer window.
With nine matches remaining in the 2006/07 season, West Ham were anchored to the bottom of the Premier League and 10 points drift of security, while Sheffield United are two places above the drop zone.
Tevez scored after five goals, including the winner against Manchester United at Old Trafford on the last day of the season, West Ham to ensure survival.
[source by bbcnews]
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English Premiership Football News ( 24 September 2008 )
Bent to save Spurs by scoring 30 goals
England striker Darren Bent says he will save the season Tottenham by scoring 30 goals.
Spurs fight have so far this season and it seems that the departure of Dimitar Berbatov, Robbie Keane and Jermain Defoe a return.
Bent said: "After our performance in pre-season you would have thought we were going to be a top-four team and perhaps better than that.
"But last season we had me, Keane, Defoe and Berbera and we lost our first game and was horrible on a term in the league afterwards.
"We did not do ourselves justice last season and have not yet started this season too. But we can transform things.
"I'm not really looking at who has left the club or feel any pressure. I just go out and play.
"Of course, Jermain, Robbie and berba have left. They have played many games for the club and score many goals.
"But if I'm the greatest number of games for Tottenham as they did, I'm very well.
"I think something Combined they scored 70 goals per season.
"I'll have a job to score much on my own, so I'll target of 30! But I am convinced that if I play regularly I will score many goals. "
[Source: The Sun]
English Premiership Football News ( 24 September 2008 )
Bent to save Spurs by scoring 30 goals
England striker Darren Bent says he will save the season Tottenham by scoring 30 goals.
Spurs fight have so far this season and it seems that the departure of Dimitar Berbatov, Robbie Keane and Jermain Defoe a return.
Bent said: "After our performance in pre-season you would have thought we were going to be a top-four team and perhaps better than that.
"But last season we had me, Keane, Defoe and Berbera and we lost our first game and was horrible on a term in the league afterwards.
"We did not do ourselves justice last season and have not yet started this season too. But we can transform things.
"I'm not really looking at who has left the club or feel any pressure. I just go out and play.
"Of course, Jermain, Robbie and berba have left. They have played many games for the club and score many goals.
"But if I'm the greatest number of games for Tottenham as they did, I'm very well.
"I think something Combined they scored 70 goals per season.
"I'll have a job to score much on my own, so I'll target of 30! But I am convinced that if I play regularly I will score many goals. "
[Source: The Sun]
23 September 2008
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English Premiership Football News ( 23 September 2008 )
Owen speaks of bleak Magpies mood
Newcastle United striker Michael Owen has called on his teammates to "get out of the darkness and doom" says it has a negative impact on the club.
The club is without a manager Kevin Keegan after the release, were put up for sale and have lost their last three games, conceding eight in the process.
But Owen believes that players must now put off-pitch concerns aside.
"It's unfortunate, but that's how it goes. Players are paid to play and we have to accomplish, "he said.
"We are all feeling at the moment, but we must try to get some results and confidence - not to collect the results is hurting the players.
"We all loved Kevin Keegan and we were sad to see him leave.
"We are all feeling at the moment, but we must try to get some results and confidence - not to collect the results is hurting the players."
Newcastle have not won since beating Coventry City in the Carling Cup in August, but face a Tottenham side with problems of their own in the third round of competition Wednesday.
The Carling Cup holders have not won a league match this season and sit bottom of the Premier League table, one place above Newcastle.
But the unrest at St James' Park following Keegan exit as manager earlier this month shows no signs of abating, with the appointment of Newcastle, London-based investment bank Seymour Pierce to manage the sale of club Monday.
Owner Mike Ashley wants to sell the club after fan protests against him, and hoped Seymour Pierce chairman Keith Harris, who was involved in the sale of Chelsea Roman Abramovich in 2003, can help.
But Owen has admitted the players are dummies that Newcastle fans about the long term.
"We are in the dark as far as the fans and it does not make it easier than Kevin Keegan was very popular," said the England striker, who has already played under Graeme Souness, Glenn Roeder, Sam Allardyce and Keegan since his arrival in August 2005.
"You're almost immune to these events in football today and I saw a lot of my time."
Goalkeeper Steve Harper, who was at the club Keegan during his first stay as manager in the 1990s, marked his team an easy target ", but insisted they could pull together.
"People talk about 11 or 12 players wishing to leave - I was in that dressing room long, but recently I have not heard one person say they want to leave this club," said Harper.
"We are a small, tight-knit team, but we experienced there in the script and there are no divisions in the camp, no rumblings of people wanting to leave. It is a nonsense to be honest. "
English Premiership Football News ( 23 September 2008 )
Owen speaks of bleak Magpies mood
Newcastle United striker Michael Owen has called on his teammates to "get out of the darkness and doom" says it has a negative impact on the club.
The club is without a manager Kevin Keegan after the release, were put up for sale and have lost their last three games, conceding eight in the process.
But Owen believes that players must now put off-pitch concerns aside.
"It's unfortunate, but that's how it goes. Players are paid to play and we have to accomplish, "he said.
"We are all feeling at the moment, but we must try to get some results and confidence - not to collect the results is hurting the players.
"We all loved Kevin Keegan and we were sad to see him leave.
"We are all feeling at the moment, but we must try to get some results and confidence - not to collect the results is hurting the players."
Newcastle have not won since beating Coventry City in the Carling Cup in August, but face a Tottenham side with problems of their own in the third round of competition Wednesday.
The Carling Cup holders have not won a league match this season and sit bottom of the Premier League table, one place above Newcastle.
But the unrest at St James' Park following Keegan exit as manager earlier this month shows no signs of abating, with the appointment of Newcastle, London-based investment bank Seymour Pierce to manage the sale of club Monday.
Owner Mike Ashley wants to sell the club after fan protests against him, and hoped Seymour Pierce chairman Keith Harris, who was involved in the sale of Chelsea Roman Abramovich in 2003, can help.
But Owen has admitted the players are dummies that Newcastle fans about the long term.
"We are in the dark as far as the fans and it does not make it easier than Kevin Keegan was very popular," said the England striker, who has already played under Graeme Souness, Glenn Roeder, Sam Allardyce and Keegan since his arrival in August 2005.
"You're almost immune to these events in football today and I saw a lot of my time."
Goalkeeper Steve Harper, who was at the club Keegan during his first stay as manager in the 1990s, marked his team an easy target ", but insisted they could pull together.
"People talk about 11 or 12 players wishing to leave - I was in that dressing room long, but recently I have not heard one person say they want to leave this club," said Harper.
"We are a small, tight-knit team, but we experienced there in the script and there are no divisions in the camp, no rumblings of people wanting to leave. It is a nonsense to be honest. "
[source by bbcnews]
Fa barclaycard Premiership News Update
Fa barclaycard Premiership News
English Premiership Football News ( 23 September 2008 )
Hughes key to new City owners´ 10-year-plan
Mark Hughes, manager of Manchester City, was informed by Prime Minister Legau club's new owners, it has a central role in their plans for a decade of success in Eastland.
The recovery of the city by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan and his group United Abu Dhabi (ABDUG) of former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, should be completed later Tuesday.
However, the city of new owners have already sent financial through the shock wave rest of the Premier League by allowing the 32.5 million pounds (60.1 million dollars) British record signing Robinho Real Madrid.
Some, including Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, have challenged the new owners commitment, warning they could withdraw from a club which they have no long commitment if the credit crunch and problems continue to affect the world economy.
But City chairman designate of Khaldoon Mubarak, who saw Robinho scores in the city in the league beating Portsmouth 6-0 last weekend, insists ADUG were for the long term and would not "crazy stuff. "
"We are real people and we want this club to develop in a sustainable manner," he said mcfc.co.uk.
"Nothing eruption is going to happen, we will not do crazy stuff.
"We will work with (President) and Mark Garry Cook. They call the shots and we are here to support to help build a sustainable club. "
"We are here as long-term investors, and it is logical for us to build a dynasty. Between Mark and Garry, I think we have a dynasty in the making. "
And he insists that ADUG wealth would not stop home players of the City Academy make the first team.
"With our support, with the commitment that we will do at the academy over the next 10 years, it will be a tremendous period of Manchester City and for us. And I think we'll have a blast doing so! "
Al Mubarak was categorical Hughes would have the last word on transfers, following reports of the former Manchester United striker and Wales manager had little say in the time of the day catching as Robinho Chelsea face Premier League rivals.
"One thing I said very clearly to Mark is that he wants any player comes to him.
"I am not an expert. It is Mark who runs the club and Mark making football decisions.
"Mark is an honest man, he is a leader, it is difficult and it is everything you would want in a head coach. We have confidence in him, it is a jewel that we have seen in this club eleven We came here.
"It will be put in place a plan to win trophies, but we will be patient. Insofar as it is managed properly and the players do what they must do, then it should be."
Not since 1976 League Cup City have won a major trophy when he is 40 years since their last crowned champions of England.
English Premiership Football News ( 23 September 2008 )
Hughes key to new City owners´ 10-year-plan
Mark Hughes, manager of Manchester City, was informed by Prime Minister Legau club's new owners, it has a central role in their plans for a decade of success in Eastland.
The recovery of the city by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan and his group United Abu Dhabi (ABDUG) of former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, should be completed later Tuesday.
However, the city of new owners have already sent financial through the shock wave rest of the Premier League by allowing the 32.5 million pounds (60.1 million dollars) British record signing Robinho Real Madrid.
Some, including Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, have challenged the new owners commitment, warning they could withdraw from a club which they have no long commitment if the credit crunch and problems continue to affect the world economy.
But City chairman designate of Khaldoon Mubarak, who saw Robinho scores in the city in the league beating Portsmouth 6-0 last weekend, insists ADUG were for the long term and would not "crazy stuff. "
"We are real people and we want this club to develop in a sustainable manner," he said mcfc.co.uk.
"Nothing eruption is going to happen, we will not do crazy stuff.
"We will work with (President) and Mark Garry Cook. They call the shots and we are here to support to help build a sustainable club. "
"We are here as long-term investors, and it is logical for us to build a dynasty. Between Mark and Garry, I think we have a dynasty in the making. "
And he insists that ADUG wealth would not stop home players of the City Academy make the first team.
"With our support, with the commitment that we will do at the academy over the next 10 years, it will be a tremendous period of Manchester City and for us. And I think we'll have a blast doing so! "
Al Mubarak was categorical Hughes would have the last word on transfers, following reports of the former Manchester United striker and Wales manager had little say in the time of the day catching as Robinho Chelsea face Premier League rivals.
"One thing I said very clearly to Mark is that he wants any player comes to him.
"I am not an expert. It is Mark who runs the club and Mark making football decisions.
"Mark is an honest man, he is a leader, it is difficult and it is everything you would want in a head coach. We have confidence in him, it is a jewel that we have seen in this club eleven We came here.
"It will be put in place a plan to win trophies, but we will be patient. Insofar as it is managed properly and the players do what they must do, then it should be."
Not since 1976 League Cup City have won a major trophy when he is 40 years since their last crowned champions of England.
[source by soccernews]
22 September 2008
Fa barclaycard Premiership News Update
Fa barclaycard Premiership News
English Premiership Football News ( 22 September 2008 )
Premier League week 5 - Who’s HOT and who’s NOT?
I did not do too bad with my predictions really. OK, I was savagely in the great Chelsea and Manchester United game, but five out of ten correct results is quite incredible for me!
Let the Villains and heroes of this weekend Premier League games;
Hot team
Not much doubt about the price this week. Manchester City is a club that now have the opportunity to challenge the best in Europe. They need to create a team that can do the same. Judging by the way they dismantle a reasonable side Portsmouth yesterday, Mark Hughes might not be too far from what later building.
When they were moving forward to the Olympics, Robinho, Wright-Phillips, Elano and others has been quite spectacular. They look quite so good in the cold and wet winter and whether they will be strong enough when they need to battle, I'm not so sure, but for the moment they were indeed very Special yesterday.
No hot team
Obviously, this should go to Portsmouth, but I do not want to add to the misery of their weekend. I think Tottenham 0-0 draw at home to Wigan say they should always receive the less hot team in the Premier League. A glance at the table will confirm the facts.
Why are Tottenham as a cocktail stick? They both won two points!
Hot Goalkeeper
I had so much stick over the past year, besides being deserves to be fair, but this award must go to Blackburn Paul Robinson.
He has a new chance at a new club and judging by two excellent saves I made to allow Blackburn to keep a clean sheet on Saturday, it seems that it might make the most of.
No hot goaltender
This must go to the man currently in possession of the England number one shirt. It has always been the best goalkeeper England for a couple of years now, but from time to time he has an absolute stench!
David James managed to make almost every mistake in his repertoire of the 6-0 defeat to Manchester City. He reminded us all why we are so nervous every time the ball goes near him, despite the fact that it is fundamentally an outstanding goalkeeper.
Hot defend
For me, this award is given to Rio Ferdinand who once again gave a master class in the art of defense in the 1.1-Unis bring to Chelsea. There is no aspect of The Game that Ferdinand seems to cause major concern. It can tackle, head, pass, move forward properly and his reading of The Game is second to none.
It is time that the inconsistency of his past and his previous crimes to be forgiven and forgotten by Ferdinand and defend well be the great Haile as he is.
Not to defend hot
I hardly much to give this award to one of the best English defenders I have ever seen. Sol Campbell has been torn by the vibrant city of Manchester play forward in a way that Sol Campbell, three or four years would not have been.
It is a shame to see a player who is on the way down. It is still good, but it is far so good as I was!
Hot Midfielder
I'm not sure that there is another player from the Premier League in the absence is felt more than Tim Cahill to Everton. The Everton side with him, it is so much more efficient than one without him. It is a driving force and it is with great goals.
Yesterday, Everton found themselves 2-0 at Hull and it was Cahill who Grabber The Game Scruff by the neck, score the first goal and Everton forced back into it to get a point.
No hot Midfielder
People rave about Stewart Downing at Middlesbrough, but I can not see. I do not go to him is a very good left winger. It's just that some people again and again about it and I do not see him as a player of international class.
0-0 away to local rivals and you've got a penalty. A cool head is needed. Downing measures and sends the ball into orbit!
Hot Striker
He always had the potential to be one of the best but never quite the case for Michael Chopra. He never established himself as a regular first team that his loan spell at Cardiff and her personal problems have been well publicized.
In the last ten minutes on Saturday, he was presented with two chances and that's all. 2-0 at Sunderland. It is a shame that he never fulfilled his enormous potential, but when it happens, it is fair to recognize.
Striker not hot
While everyone is going on Robbie Keane on the lack of scoring for Liverpool, everyone has noticed that a certain Fernando Torres are not exactly prolific? He seems to be well below the actor who started last season for Liverpool.
There is no doubt that it is a great attacker and that the goals will be at a certain stage, but to attract Torres to another blank against a limited but Stoke Rafa defense must be a little disturbing.
[source by soccernews]
English Premiership Football News ( 22 September 2008 )
Premier League week 5 - Who’s HOT and who’s NOT?
I did not do too bad with my predictions really. OK, I was savagely in the great Chelsea and Manchester United game, but five out of ten correct results is quite incredible for me!
Let the Villains and heroes of this weekend Premier League games;
Hot team
Not much doubt about the price this week. Manchester City is a club that now have the opportunity to challenge the best in Europe. They need to create a team that can do the same. Judging by the way they dismantle a reasonable side Portsmouth yesterday, Mark Hughes might not be too far from what later building.
When they were moving forward to the Olympics, Robinho, Wright-Phillips, Elano and others has been quite spectacular. They look quite so good in the cold and wet winter and whether they will be strong enough when they need to battle, I'm not so sure, but for the moment they were indeed very Special yesterday.
No hot team
Obviously, this should go to Portsmouth, but I do not want to add to the misery of their weekend. I think Tottenham 0-0 draw at home to Wigan say they should always receive the less hot team in the Premier League. A glance at the table will confirm the facts.
Why are Tottenham as a cocktail stick? They both won two points!
Hot Goalkeeper
I had so much stick over the past year, besides being deserves to be fair, but this award must go to Blackburn Paul Robinson.
He has a new chance at a new club and judging by two excellent saves I made to allow Blackburn to keep a clean sheet on Saturday, it seems that it might make the most of.
No hot goaltender
This must go to the man currently in possession of the England number one shirt. It has always been the best goalkeeper England for a couple of years now, but from time to time he has an absolute stench!
David James managed to make almost every mistake in his repertoire of the 6-0 defeat to Manchester City. He reminded us all why we are so nervous every time the ball goes near him, despite the fact that it is fundamentally an outstanding goalkeeper.
Hot defend
For me, this award is given to Rio Ferdinand who once again gave a master class in the art of defense in the 1.1-Unis bring to Chelsea. There is no aspect of The Game that Ferdinand seems to cause major concern. It can tackle, head, pass, move forward properly and his reading of The Game is second to none.
It is time that the inconsistency of his past and his previous crimes to be forgiven and forgotten by Ferdinand and defend well be the great Haile as he is.
Not to defend hot
I hardly much to give this award to one of the best English defenders I have ever seen. Sol Campbell has been torn by the vibrant city of Manchester play forward in a way that Sol Campbell, three or four years would not have been.
It is a shame to see a player who is on the way down. It is still good, but it is far so good as I was!
Hot Midfielder
I'm not sure that there is another player from the Premier League in the absence is felt more than Tim Cahill to Everton. The Everton side with him, it is so much more efficient than one without him. It is a driving force and it is with great goals.
Yesterday, Everton found themselves 2-0 at Hull and it was Cahill who Grabber The Game Scruff by the neck, score the first goal and Everton forced back into it to get a point.
No hot Midfielder
People rave about Stewart Downing at Middlesbrough, but I can not see. I do not go to him is a very good left winger. It's just that some people again and again about it and I do not see him as a player of international class.
0-0 away to local rivals and you've got a penalty. A cool head is needed. Downing measures and sends the ball into orbit!
Hot Striker
He always had the potential to be one of the best but never quite the case for Michael Chopra. He never established himself as a regular first team that his loan spell at Cardiff and her personal problems have been well publicized.
In the last ten minutes on Saturday, he was presented with two chances and that's all. 2-0 at Sunderland. It is a shame that he never fulfilled his enormous potential, but when it happens, it is fair to recognize.
Striker not hot
While everyone is going on Robbie Keane on the lack of scoring for Liverpool, everyone has noticed that a certain Fernando Torres are not exactly prolific? He seems to be well below the actor who started last season for Liverpool.
There is no doubt that it is a great attacker and that the goals will be at a certain stage, but to attract Torres to another blank against a limited but Stoke Rafa defense must be a little disturbing.
[source by soccernews]
Fa barclaycard Premiership News Update
Fa barclaycard Premiership News
English Premiership Football News ( 22 September 2008 )
Chelsea duo sidelined by injuries
Chelsea will be without Portuguese international Deco and Ricardo Carvalho for several weeks.
Carvalho faces a months on the sidelines after the defense has been diagnosed with knee ligament damage.
He suffered the injury in the early stages of Chelsea 1-1 draw with Manchester United on Sunday.
English Premiership Football News ( 22 September 2008 )
Chelsea duo sidelined by injuries
Chelsea will be without Portuguese international Deco and Ricardo Carvalho for several weeks.
Carvalho faces a months on the sidelines after the defense has been diagnosed with knee ligament damage.
He suffered the injury in the early stages of Chelsea 1-1 draw with Manchester United on Sunday.
Deco missed The Game after tearing a muscle in his upper thigh during the warm up and was ruled out for about two weeks.
The blow to lose Deco will softener by the imminent arrival of midfielder Mineiro Brazil as a free agent.
The 33-year cover of John Obi Mikel in a holding role, with Michael Essien for six months already.
Deco seems to miss Chelsea game coming against Portsmouth in the Carling Cup and 1907 CFR Cluj in the Champions League and league against Aston Villa and Stoke.
The loss of Carvalho's influence could be difficult for the Blues face.
Alex came on the bench to replace Carvalho against United at Stamford Bridge and has responded with a solid display, but the back is a position that the club had problems in the past.
They will hope to have the defense of the former Porto Carvalho back after the next break in time to make their Champions League tie against Roma on 22 October.
[source by bbcnews]
21 September 2008
Fa Barclaycard Premiership Result Update
Fa barclaycard Premiership News Update
Fa barclaycard Premiership News
English Premiership Football News ( 21 September 2008 )
Chelsea v Man Utd
Venue: Stamford Bridge Date: Sunday, 21 September Kick-off: 1400 BST
Coverage: BBC Sport website, BBC Radio Five Live & highlights on Match of the Day
Cristiano Ronaldo and Dimitar Berbatov could start up front for Manchester United against Chelsea on Sunday.
Berbatov has recovered from a knee injury, while Ronaldo made his comeback from ankle surgery as a substitute in the 0-0 draw with Villareal.
Chelsea defender John Terry is available for the match after a successful appeal against a red card.
But Blues manager Luiz Felipe Scolari has said striker Didier Drogba is still not fit enough to play for 90 minutes.
With uncertainty over the Ivory Coast international's fitness, Scolari could be tempted to name the same starting XI that has beaten Manchester City and Bordeaux in the past week.
Ferguson revealed Ronaldo is desperate to feature at Stamford Bridge following a 30-minute appearance in the 0-0 draw with Villareal on Wednesday, his first appearance since the Champions League final in May.
"Cristiano is nibbling in my ear all the time. He is bursting to play," said the Scot.
"The boy was on fire on Wednesday. He was revved up to do really well.
"When you think he has had an operation, has been in rehab for two months and had not played since May 21. It was a big ask for him.
"But you have to say his performance level was outstanding. He has trained very well and is a natural athlete, so I have no qualms on that score. I just have to decide whether it is the right time."
Ferguson also faces selection dilemmas over Nemanja Vidic's replacement after the centre-back was suspended after he was sent off in the 2-1 defeat by Liverpool.
Wes Brown could move into the centre of defence, with the fit-again Gary Neville slotting in at right-back.
But Jonny Evans, 20, is also in the Scot's thinking after he played very well in the 0-0 draw with Villarreal on Wednesday.
"I need to work out whether I go with Evans' ability but lack of experience or whether I opt for Wes' experience and Gary at full-back," said Ferguson.
Neville played just once for United last season - as a substitute in the 1-0 Champions League quarter-final second-leg win over Roma - due to an ankle injury.
"Gary was only playing his second competitive match on Wednesday but he did very well," added Ferguson.
"That will bring him on if I decide to play him on Sunday but Evans was excellent as well."
"Jonny was the big plus. For a young man of 20, he shows great maturity in his game.
"He reads the game well, which is a fantastic asset to have at such a young age.
"He is commanding in the air and a good user of the ball and that gives me confidence that he could step right into the first team with no worries."
While Evans impressed, there were signs of rustiness in Neville's game, particularly in his crossing, but it was his first competitive start since breaking his ankle against Bolton in March 2007.
"I just need games," said the 33-year-old defender. "Having been out for so long I need a run in the side.
"But it is difficult to get that at the moment because Wes Brown has performed so well and deserves to play.
"It is just a case of remaining patient, keeping fit and training well every day.
"I have made steady progress and when you look at the programme of matches we have coming up I am sure there will be enough games for everyone."
BIG-MATCH FACTS
Chelsea get a first opportunity to avenge their defeat to Manchester United in the Champions League final. Victory would see them open up a nine point advantage over the domestic and European champions in the Premier League table.
Both clubs had differing fortunes in Europe in midweek; Chelsea equalled their record home win in the Champions League with a 4-0 eclipse of Bordeaux, while a much changed United were held to a goalless draw by Villarreal at Old Trafford in their opening group match.
This is Manchester United's second successive 'Big Four' match-up in the Premier League, after last Saturday's 2-1 away loss to Liverpool. They are in danger of suffering successive league defeats for the first time in 122 outings.
Luiz Felipe Scolari has made a most impressive start as manager of Chelsea with four wins and one draw from five matches in all competitions; defeat for United here will equal the Red Devils' worst ever start to a Premier League season.
United have been beaten more times by Chelsea in the Premier League than by any other club (10) and have dropped more points to them than any other team (56).
The Red Devils were the last club to beat Chelsea in a Premier League game by more than a single goal (23 September 2007); Chelsea were the last club to beat United by more than a single goal (29 April 2006).
[source by bbcnews]
English Premiership Football News ( 21 September 2008 )
Chelsea v Man Utd
Venue: Stamford Bridge Date: Sunday, 21 September Kick-off: 1400 BST
Coverage: BBC Sport website, BBC Radio Five Live & highlights on Match of the Day
Cristiano Ronaldo and Dimitar Berbatov could start up front for Manchester United against Chelsea on Sunday.
Berbatov has recovered from a knee injury, while Ronaldo made his comeback from ankle surgery as a substitute in the 0-0 draw with Villareal.
Chelsea defender John Terry is available for the match after a successful appeal against a red card.
But Blues manager Luiz Felipe Scolari has said striker Didier Drogba is still not fit enough to play for 90 minutes.
With uncertainty over the Ivory Coast international's fitness, Scolari could be tempted to name the same starting XI that has beaten Manchester City and Bordeaux in the past week.
Ferguson revealed Ronaldo is desperate to feature at Stamford Bridge following a 30-minute appearance in the 0-0 draw with Villareal on Wednesday, his first appearance since the Champions League final in May.
"Cristiano is nibbling in my ear all the time. He is bursting to play," said the Scot.
"The boy was on fire on Wednesday. He was revved up to do really well.
"When you think he has had an operation, has been in rehab for two months and had not played since May 21. It was a big ask for him.
"But you have to say his performance level was outstanding. He has trained very well and is a natural athlete, so I have no qualms on that score. I just have to decide whether it is the right time."
Ferguson also faces selection dilemmas over Nemanja Vidic's replacement after the centre-back was suspended after he was sent off in the 2-1 defeat by Liverpool.
Wes Brown could move into the centre of defence, with the fit-again Gary Neville slotting in at right-back.
But Jonny Evans, 20, is also in the Scot's thinking after he played very well in the 0-0 draw with Villarreal on Wednesday.
"I need to work out whether I go with Evans' ability but lack of experience or whether I opt for Wes' experience and Gary at full-back," said Ferguson.
Neville played just once for United last season - as a substitute in the 1-0 Champions League quarter-final second-leg win over Roma - due to an ankle injury.
"Gary was only playing his second competitive match on Wednesday but he did very well," added Ferguson.
"That will bring him on if I decide to play him on Sunday but Evans was excellent as well."
"Jonny was the big plus. For a young man of 20, he shows great maturity in his game.
"He reads the game well, which is a fantastic asset to have at such a young age.
"He is commanding in the air and a good user of the ball and that gives me confidence that he could step right into the first team with no worries."
While Evans impressed, there were signs of rustiness in Neville's game, particularly in his crossing, but it was his first competitive start since breaking his ankle against Bolton in March 2007.
"I just need games," said the 33-year-old defender. "Having been out for so long I need a run in the side.
"But it is difficult to get that at the moment because Wes Brown has performed so well and deserves to play.
"It is just a case of remaining patient, keeping fit and training well every day.
"I have made steady progress and when you look at the programme of matches we have coming up I am sure there will be enough games for everyone."
BIG-MATCH FACTS
Chelsea get a first opportunity to avenge their defeat to Manchester United in the Champions League final. Victory would see them open up a nine point advantage over the domestic and European champions in the Premier League table.
Both clubs had differing fortunes in Europe in midweek; Chelsea equalled their record home win in the Champions League with a 4-0 eclipse of Bordeaux, while a much changed United were held to a goalless draw by Villarreal at Old Trafford in their opening group match.
This is Manchester United's second successive 'Big Four' match-up in the Premier League, after last Saturday's 2-1 away loss to Liverpool. They are in danger of suffering successive league defeats for the first time in 122 outings.
Luiz Felipe Scolari has made a most impressive start as manager of Chelsea with four wins and one draw from five matches in all competitions; defeat for United here will equal the Red Devils' worst ever start to a Premier League season.
United have been beaten more times by Chelsea in the Premier League than by any other club (10) and have dropped more points to them than any other team (56).
The Red Devils were the last club to beat Chelsea in a Premier League game by more than a single goal (23 September 2007); Chelsea were the last club to beat United by more than a single goal (29 April 2006).
[source by bbcnews]
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