Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 20 December 2008 )

English Premiership football News

European draws

Manchester United will face José Mourinho to Inter Milan in the last 16 of the Champions League.

Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez has been handed a return to Spain to face his former club Real Madrid in the draw in Nyon.

Former Chelsea boss Claudio Ranieri will make an emotional return to Stamford Bridge after Juventus were paired with last season's losers.

Arsenal, like Chelsea, has been happy to have avoided Barcelona and AS Roma will take.

The ties will be played on February 24/25 and 10/11 March of the Champions League knock-out phase begins.

Former manager Mourinho Chelsea made it clear he wanted to draw the English club and he asked a mouth-watering clash with United, with the first step to be played at San Siro.

The link will revive memories of Mourinho's famous dash to the key at Old Trafford in March 2004, when Francisco Costinha last minute equalizer sent United crashing on the Champions League and Porto and has seen through for a possible victory in the final.

"It is interesting to face Jose again," said Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

"It is a character with a good personality and I have always been on well with him.

"It is Pregnancy us out of the competition with Porto, so I hope we are fortunate in that they link this time."

Mourinho was keen to talk about his opponents, who are currently playing in Japan for the FIFA Club World.

"I am satisfied, I wanted the best and I had the European champions who may be in two days will be world champions," said Mourinho.

"This is a team with the current Ballon d'Or winner (Cristiano Ronaldo), a great coach Alex Ferguson and in a stadium with a fantastic atmosphere.

"He will return to Manchester unforgettable. Some say that I have a good record against Alex Ferguson, but the case is not about me, it is Chelsea."

Former Tottenham boss Juande Ramos will be back in England with Real Madrid as they take on Liverpool in the second stage to be played at Anfield.

And Steve McManaman, who played for both sides - Champions League win medals with Real Madrid in 2000 and 2002 - is convinced that all parties English progress to the last eight.

"I think English clubs will go through that I think it (the Premier League) the league is still strong," McManaman told BBC Radio 5 Live.

"If a club is likely to affect the English in the later rounds likely will be in Barcelona.

"The tie will be a test for Rafa Benitez going back to Spain as it is a boy from Madrid to heart. Real are currently decimated by injuries, but another research team in February.
"But I think Liverpool are favorites, especially with the second stage at Anfield."

The guide is a repeat of the 1981 final in Paris, which the English side won 1-0, and Liverpool club secretary Bryce Morrison told BBC Radio 5 Live: "We have not played since Real Madrid in Paris to competition.

"I think the current situation is perhaps strongest teams around Madrid, but are probably not satisfied with the situation they find themselves, and they will turn around.

"You can not achieve greater equality and that the fans will enjoy it."

Ramos added: "I know perfectly well that Liverpool. I know how difficult they are and the difficulties they will present us, but I think it will be a link.

"They are a team with many qualities, a team in the image of their coach: hard, with good players in attack, defense, with the aim ... they are removing a full team.
"Real Madrid do not have to fear anyone. We know they are a difficult opponent but we'll have as much chance of winning like them."

Arsenal and Chelsea, both face the possibility of playing favorites in Barcelona, but not in the form Liga leaders.

Arsène Wenger's side will be the first step at home as they play AS Roma, while Chelsea will welcome back former boss Ranieri their clash against Juventus.

"Of course we have a great chance to win the competition, like any team at this level," said Wenger.

"But now the Champions League is another competition, like a cup competition. If you miss five minutes from the 180, you're on the go."

Roma coach Luciano Spalletti said: "It did very well. There is no point in talking now, we must simply show what we are doing and how we are prepared to make sacrifices.

"For Arsenal, I wish to congratulate them on their system. They have great young players on their way to becoming major players who are being chased by all the major clubs in Europe."

Ranieri is a popular figure at Stamford Bridge before being replaced by Mourinho in 2004, despite guiding them to the Champions League semi-final where they lost to Monaco.

"The Anglo-Italian triple challenge is fascinating," said Ranieri. "And from our point of view, we will try to keep Chelsea on top of the world where (owner Roman) Abramovich wants to lead.

"Chelsea are focused on winning the Champions League for Abramovich would be a disaster not to win.
"This is a great challenge. I would not say I'm happy but it will be an exciting match, we must be on top of our game. "

Italy added: "You can not forget the four years at a club. I do not think Chelsea or forget."

The confrontation, meanwhile, calls for Chelsea assistant manager Ray Wilkins, who believes that Juventus will present a stiff challenge as the Roma, who played the blues in the group stages.

"Roma are a big test for us but I think Juventus are a better team, they are higher than Roma in the table," said Wilkins.

"Juventus will be well organized, they have some good players, no more than Alessandro Del Piero who seems to have been REBORN this year.

"Pavel Nedved is still at 36 and it can hurt you.

"They are quite play in a small stage, but the atmosphere is fantastic and I am looking forward to it."

And with a tie with leaders of the Spanish league Barcelona, Lyon sporting director Bernard Lacombe admitted: "I am very worried.

"Lyon could not have found a worse opponent. Barca have the best players in Europe in his team.

"It is mission impossible, the equivalent of you asking me to jump over the crossbar with both feet bound."

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE DRAW

Chelsea v Juventus

Villarreal v Panathinaikos

Sporting Lisbon v Bayern Munich

Atletico Madrid v FC Porto

Lyon v Barcelona

Real Madrid v Liverpool

Arsenal v Roma

Inter Milan v Manchester United

by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 20 December 2008 )

English Premiership football News

Santa Cruz hints at Rovers exit
Blackburn striker Roque Santa Cruz said he would leave Ewood Park if a better or an ambitious club offered him the chance to improve its form.

Santa Cruz was signed today by Manchester City boss Mark Hughes and has been linked with a move to Eastland.

"I would really like to continue to improve and better than I'm doing now," Santa Cruz told the BBC.

"And if a better or a club coming ambitious and want the opportunity I would like to take it."

That Paraguay is an opportunity to leave Ewood Park will depend on the new Blackburn manager Sam Allardyce, who said Thursday he did not sell one of its players in the January transfer window.

And 27 years of Santa Cruz said it would be difficult for him to leave the club when he joined Bayern Munich in 2007.

"My contract with Blackburn is clear and that I need to continue with the club," he told BBC Radio 5 Live.

"But I'm looking to play again in a big party is in Europe and trying to win their league.

"I must say that people here are fantastic at Blackburn. I am very pleased with the fans, but I do not want to miss the chance to play with a great side.

"I also understand the interests of Blackburn as well and they do not want to lose players. I want to pay attention to me but I think Blackburn. This is a very difficult decision."

In August Lure Hughes tried to convey to Manchester but his attempts to sign the player for a second time fell flat at Blackburn rejected his offer.

After efforts by Hughes the club was quick to link the Paraguay international to a new agreement, keeping him at Ewood Park until 2012.

Santa Cruz has scored only four goals this season compared to last term when he found the net 23 times.
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 18 December 2008 )

English Premiership football News

Real Ronaldo claims rile Ferguson
Sir Alex Ferguson has hit at Real Madrid on claims Manchester United have agreed to sell Cristiano Ronaldo to the Spanish giants.

Real have said Pedro Trapote Spanish newspaper El Mundo an agreement was struck, adding: "There are clauses keeping us announcing it."

But Ferguson insists there was no such agreement with Real, saying he "would not sell them for viruses."

He added: "Would I get a contract with this crowd? Absolutely no chance."

Speaking after his side beat Gamba Osaka to the European Champions League in Japan, the United boss reacted furiously to the latest.

"I do not want to sell to the virus - is a step. There is no agreement whatsoever between the clubs.

"I told David Gill last year in the summer, when we sold Gabby Heinze, you can bet your life in January, it will be started again Ronaldo. It will happen again this January, believe me.

"We had just ignore it because if we continue to worry that Real are going to say we're not going to concentrate on our own program of difficult games coming up.

"Sometimes it may be a situation of anger and sometimes we are really annoyed with them, but we know The Game and I think we should play our game and ignore all this."

Ronaldo also responded to the allegations, saying he is happy to stay at Old Trafford and has no real interest of the reported.

"I do not care. I do not see newspapers," he said. "We are here in Japan and I do not know anything, what happened around me.

"I am very pleased (Man Utd), very happy."

Trapote understood to be very close to club president Ramon Calderon, had gone on record saying in El Mundo: "We have already signed our first target for next summer.

"Is it Cristiano Ronaldo? It is a Christian, no one else. The thing is, it is better to say nothing now."

BBC Manchester Steve Wyeth, which was released in Japan-US following the progress of the Club World Cup, said earlier the news was greeted with anger by officials.

"This has been firmly rejected, and with pretty colors language," said Wyeth.

The final round at Real Madrid-Ronaldo history could open wounds between the clubs following the acrimony between operations and the United Spanish giants over the summer.

Real public of the continuation of 23 years ended with United complain to FIFA over their conduct, with Ferguson claimed they showed "a lack of morality."

The case was closed due to lack of evidence, and, later, Ronaldo told Spanish sports paper Marca in October as he is in Manchester in body and soul. "

Ronaldo, this year's Ballon d'Or winner, is currently under contract at Old Trafford until 2012 and Ferguson was delighted with his improvement since his arrival at Old Trafford as a raw teenager in 2003.

"In the five years I have been with us, we have seen develop into the player he is today," he added.

"I have always had certain qualities that makes it to the very top - his incredible talent, speed and courage. In the meantime, I have been with us, he developed his decision-making process.

"As a kid, I played center-forward for Sporting Lisbon in Portugal and our people kept telling us that" this is a big boy Goalscorer ".

"When I first came to us, we could not see that. All of a sudden I just blossom last season and have 42.

"It is a measure of a young person wanting to do to improve itself by its own determination and ambition to practice all the time."
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 18 December 2008 )

English Premiership football News

Allardyce 'does not have to sell'
New Blackburn manager Sam Allardyce will use accessories Christmas to assess his team but did not sell his star players.

"We do not have to sell anyone in the January transfer window," said the former Bolton and Newcastle boss.

"I think it is very important from my point of view. I joined the club because I know the players.

"I know how good they are and that is one reason why I am here so why would I want to sell one of my best?"

Blackburn chairman John Williams and added: "The key is that he believes he can get the best of what we have.

"You do not go out of prison, if you sell your best players."

Rovers, which bag Paul Ince on Tuesday, are second bottom of the Fa Barclaycard Premiership with only 13 points.

Speaking as he was unveiled as the new director at Ewood Park, Allardyce also revealed that he had refused the job during the summer.

"Six months ago, it was a case to speak with John Williams, go home and talk to my better half," he said.

"After 15 years managing and coaching right, I decided it was too early to return to the mainstream.

"Now I can go in terms of my teeth are stuck in jobs and improved performance, certainly in the beginning."

And Allardyce, 54, is preparing for a tough battle as it tries to avoid relegation.

"Everyone here did not expect the club to be in this position, but I've been there before and players must respond quickly.

"You can never say you're too good to go down, but we have players out of trouble as soon as possible.

"We are some distance from safety (five points) and while some people say that only two victories, winning two on the trot is a great demand.

"It could take up to six games to catch up with those teams, but there are 21 games to go, we have a relatively good team and they are lifting their confidence and using the old adage of taking one game at a time. "

Allardyce is hoping he brings the same success at Ewood Park Harry Redknapp has done at Tottenham after his move from Portsmouth.

"I have a Harry Redknapp midas touch when it comes to Saturday," Allardyce continued.

"Things have become very rosy for him almost instantly, and I hope that works for me in a difficult match against Stoke on Saturday."

Allardyce has lost little time to stamp his mark on the club by the appointment of Neil McDonald as his assistant manager.

McDonald worked with Allardyce at Bolton and its arrival: two of the team behind Ince, Ray Mathias and Archie Knox, followed the ex-Manchester United, Inter Milan, Liverpool and England midfielder at the door .
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 18 December 2008 )

English Premiership football News

Kinnear optimistic Owen will stay
Newcastle boss Joe Kinnear is now more optimistic Michael Owen will sign a new contract at St James' Park.

Owen has been offered a three-year deal and Kinnear has already suggested that it might reject it and leave the club on a Bosman free transfer in summer.

But Kinnear has held further talks with the 29-year attacker and revealed: "I am more optimistic now having spent that time talking to him.

"We'll certainly know, I think that in the next two or three days."

Owen scored 29 goals for Newcastle since he joined Real Madrid from £ 17m in 2005 and remains a key player.

Kinnear insists the England striker will not be sold during the January transfer window - even if there is a risk Owen could walk free when his current contract expires at the end of the season.

"I spent about an hour with him a few days ago," said Kinnear.

"He had what I consider a very good offer, bringing Michael up to 32 or more.

"It is going to meet with his agent and come back with an answer."

Magpie midfielder Nicky Butt, striker Shola Ameobi and goalkeeper Steve Harper has also been offered new contracts and Kinnear hopes they will sign this week.
Kinnear said: "We hope to sign Nicky, and Shola is the same.

"Steve is the agent to talk to (owner) Mike Ashley, so I am very confident they will all sign.

"Nicky is happy. He wants to finish his career here.

"There is only Michael, really. We are giving him an extra few days to sort things, but I am more optimistic with Michael. "

Last week, I was not convinced to give Kinnear to persuade Owen to stay beyond the summer.

"I am quite confident all the others, but Michael is another kettle of fish," he said at the time.
by bbcnews

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 17 December 2008 )

English Premiership football News

FA BARCLAYCARD PREMIERSHIP - Round 15 : Who’s hot and who’s not ??

Hot team
Sunderland produced a fine performance in their easy victory against West Brom but they can not win the "Hot Team" prices because if they can play like that, why did they not do it for Roy Keane? Save Newcastle in exceptional performance in Portsmouth, but they must do so again before it can be considered a hot team.

Despite several good performances, there can be a winner this week is incredible and the city of Hull. People keep expecting the bubble, but he did not and now it does not look like it will.

They have only lost away from home this season and eleven which was 4-3 at Old Trafford. On Saturday, they went up 2-0 at Liverpool and although the Reds fought back to 2-2 Hull were still looking for a winner at the end of The Game. They are a credit to their leader, themselves and the Premier League.

No hot team
West Brom are good candidates, but they might become a bit of a lost cause. Portsmouth looked quite poor in the second half against Newcastle and I still can not explain why the work the same eleven players look so much Poore under Tony Adams that under Harry Redknapp.

This week, the prize is awarded to Blackburn. The players are too good to be where they are and they are simply not produce what they are capable. There are difficulties in May in the locker room, but Paul Ince deserves better of his players.
Their performance at Wigan was catastrophic. They need to sort things quickly.

Hot guard
Credit where it is due. I had a lot of criticism quite justified in recent months but Tottenham Heurelho Gomes made a couple of world class to help earn his side a 0-0 draw with Manchester United.

You have to admire a man against attack after reaching a low point. It is certainly this week Hot goalkeeper.

Hot non-custodial
May I have been the best French goalkeeper for some time, but David James will not remember yesterday's 3-0 defeat with a penchant.

The first goal I could have been faster on Michael Owen's poor first touch, the second goal, I went to far too easily to Obafemi Martins' trick fantasies and I have my own chances of saving the third!

Hot defend
Last week, is not hot was the defense of Everton Phil Jagielka. He rebounded from last week's terrible back pass with a flawless performance for the caramels to their victory at Manchester City.

He was strongly against the force to attack Samba and looks every inch a lawyer.
Hot not defend
It seems hard to give this award to Fa Barclaycard Premiership most consistent defenders in recent years, but not before Jamie Carragher. I had a scene of horror yesterday against Hull. I was very well managed by the Ragged Hull forward players and Topper off its performance with a specific objective.

Great defense, but not a great day for him.

Hot Midfielder
There has been much talk about the likes of Manchester United are interested in Wigan Antonio Valencia. I have never seen any before, but why his performance, particularly in the first half, Saturday was quite exceptional.

If it does not much Fright life of the fragility of research Blackburn midfielder and defense at present, I certainly Fright.

Not hot midfielder
What happened to Blackburn Morten Pederson Gamstar? A season or two back I looked like a world-class player. But the wing, firing shots and deadly September delivery rooms and Crosses mouth watering for the likes of Santa Cruz and McCarthy.

Now I have nothing seems to Blackburn. He was replaced at half time on Saturday and to be fair, it was lucky for a long time.

Hot Striker
Four injured Strikers Everton and turn their midfield dynamo Tim Cahill to play the only role the attacker to Manchester City. He works as hard as he always does, and despite his 5'10 "frame, it gives Micah Richards and other defenders of the tower of giant time in the air.

In the last minute, it appears in the area and heads home vainqueur deserve to be on his side. It was an excellent performance from Australia as he continues to show the value of the player, it is for Everton.

Striker not hot
This week you can choose from Portsmouth dynamic duo Jermaine Defoe and Peter Crouch. Considering they are both probably in the four strikers in English, Tony Adams has the right to expect them to give him more than they did yesterday.

I will give Defoe, on the basis that I can remember him missing the easiest of chances.
by soccernews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 17 December 2008 )

English Premiership football News

Allardyce named Blackburn manager
Blackburn Rovers have appointed Sam Allardyce as their new manager on a three-year contract.

The Lancashire club bag Paul Ince on Tuesday and made it clear they wanted a new boss at the helm for Saturday's home game against Stoke.

"I am very happy, I will say more at the press conference on Thursday," said 54-year Allardyce.

Allardyce has been without work since he was dismissed as manager of Newcastle United on January 9.

"Rovers are pleased to announce the appointment of Sam Allardyce as manager," said a club statement.

The new director will be officially unveiled at 1600 GMT press conference on Thursday.

Ince was dismissed by Rovers after just 17 Premier League games in charge.

Rovers are second from bottom of the Fa Barclaycard Premiership and have not won in the league since their defeat to Newcastle on 27 September.

After a victory Ince start under its mandate, Rovers have won only three of their top-flight games this season and are on a term of 11 games without a victory.
Allardyce was also linked to the management vacancy at Sunderland.

It was successful during eight years as head of Rovers' Lancashire rivals Bolton, establishing them in the Premier League during his time in charge at the Reebok.

The Trotters also reached the final of the Carling Cup in 2004 and qualified for the Uefa Cup for the first time in their history in 2005.

Rovers play successive Premier League against Bolton and Newcastle accessories in January.

Former Blackburn striker Kevin Gallach told BBC Sport: "It's not a surprise choice.

"Blackburn need someone who can put the club back again and I think I can do."

Allardyce has also managed Blackpool and Notts County.

At Bolton, he was renowned for innovation, using scientific techniques to keep players in shape.

Sheffield United veteran midfielder Gary Speed, who played for Allardyce at Bolton, said: "He gets the best of players, it is very accessible, friendly and I am sure the players appreciate his training and his company.

Regarding the style of football Allardyce would welcome Blackburn, speed, said: "It is smart enough to know if you do not have the players to play live, you do not play live."

There was no word Rovers on the future of Ince backstage staff Archie Knox, Ray Mathias and Karl Robinson.

Graeme Souness, who managed the club from 2000-2004, has also been linked to employment, but has already ruled himself on the race.

"I'm afraid you're talking to the wrong man," said Souness in the Lancashire Evening Telegraph newspaper.

"I do not know anything and had no contact at all from Blackburn Rovers. I'm not your man, I can say."
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 17 December 2008 )

English Premiership football News

Pompey accept Real bid for Diarra
Portsmouth have accepted an offer from Spanish side Real Madrid for midfielder Lassana Diarra.

The 23-year-old France international has joined Pompey from Arsenal in January this year and has now given permission to speak in Madrid.

"We have always said we would only allow our players to leave if we received an exceptional offer," a spokesman told the Pompey club's website.

Manchester City were also thought to be interested in signing the player.

City were understood to be willing to offer in the region of £ 20m behind Diarra but earlier this week in Spanish newspaper Marca that he wants to go to Real.

"When you talk about Real Madrid, the other teams are no longer important, all the others to take second place," said Diarra.

"It would be a dream to be able to play such a large club."

Diarra began his career with French side Le Havre before signing for Chelsea in 2005. He moved to the Gunners last day of August 2007 transfer window, but left Pompey five months later.

"We could not in the way of a movement of this kind of Lassana," the statement continued Portsmouth.

"It shows how the club has been owned by Alexander Gayadamak when Real Madrid come in for one of our players.

"If the operation is complete, we have already identified replacements."

Diarra has not played for Pompey since November 15 but is close to a return following an ankle injury.

If he passes a medical and agrees personal terms, it will be able to sign for Real during the transfer window re-opens on January 1.

The nine-time European champions are coaches by former Tottenham boss Juande Ramos and you want because defensive midfielder Mali international Mahamadou Diarra is sidelined for the season after undergoing surgery on knee .
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 17 December 2008 )

English Premiership football News

Eduardo makes return from injury
Arsenal striker Eduardo returned to competition in a reserve match against Portsmouth on Tuesday.

The Croatian, 25, played the first half of the reserves against Portsmouth at Barnet's Underhill ground.

"I am very pleased to have started my first match in 10 months," he said afterwards.

"I hope I can do more and that the next time will be better. I felt something right in my Hamstring in two weeks, but I'm going straight. "

There were fears for Eduardo's career when he suffered a fractured left fibula and dislocated his left ankle Feb. 23.

He was injured when tackled by Birmingham's Martin Taylor at the 2.2 draw at St Andrews.

Eduardo, who underwent surgery the same day, missed the rest of the season and the European Championship, but it was the subject of an intensive rehabilitation that included spells in his native Brazil.

Arsenal boss Wenger said last week: "He is joining in full training matches, but must now play."
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 16 December 2008 )

English Premiership football News

Lowly Blackburn sack manager Ince
Blackburn have sack manager Paul Ince, after less than six months in charge with the club second bottom of the Fa Barclaycard Premiership.

Ince, 41, joined Rovers from MK Dons in June but Blackburn last league victory was in Newcastle on September 27.

Chairman John Williams said: "Three wins in 17 games that you saw a team that finished seventh last season fall to 19th place.

"We are now in danger of being detached from the pack."

The decision to sack Ince was taken after a board meeting and Blackburn Williams said that the need to keep the club in the top flight was behind the move.

Williams said the club intends to appoint a new manager in time for Saturday's game against Stoke with former boss Graeme Souness an early harbinger, possibly assisted by veteran midfielder Tugay Blackburn.

The former Bolton and Newcastle manager Sam Allardyce, who was considered for the post during the summer before Ince got the job, and ex-Charlton and West Ham boss Alan Curbishley were also linked.

Williams was publicly criticized Blackburn on the screen of what has proved to be Ince's final game, the 3-0 defeat to Wigan on Saturday.

He added: "The survival of the club in the Premier League is paramount and our focus is on finding a replacement to be able to maintain our top-division status.

"Paul will rebound, it is a struggle and we wish him every success."

A statement published on the website of Blackburn, said: "The Council, after selecting Paul Ince in June, desperately need him to succeed and I wanted to give him as much time as possible in the unforgiving environment of the Fa Barclaycard Premiership, where time is such a precious commodity. "

The Blackburn team returned to training on Tuesday after their Christmas party in Dublin and they have been subjected to peace by their deputy director Ray Matthias while Ince met with the board of directors.

Mathias, first team coach Archie Knox and the first assistant coach Karl Robinson will take charge against Stoke, although President Williams said the club hoped to appoint someone before the weekend, but said there was "no guarantee".

Ince was appointed on June 22 on a three-year contract after spells with Macclesfield, who avoided relegation to the Football League, and MK Dons, which led to the League Two title and Johnstone's Paint Trophy in his first season in charge.

Despite Rovers' promising start of the campaign, the former Manchester United and England midfielder saw the performance and results to start deteriorated.

Rovers have lost their last six league and there have been reports of dressing room unrest.

But Mathias insists there was no unrest in Blackburn and who had no role to play in the departure of Ince.

"This is a load of waste. There is no happier a dressing room as ours - could go a long way to beat that, he said.

"This is a huge disappointment Paul has disappeared. Everybody feels it, the players, you can see in their eyes.

He added: "At the end of the day we are quite professional. Unfortunately, the decision on Gaffe was made, and we must go hand in hand with what the club said.

"This is a small number of games for any person to be judge, but we must move forward with our work now."

After the defeat to Wigan, Williams told the Lancashire Telegraph: "After all the signs emerging from Brockhall (Blackburn training ground) this week, I was led to believe we get a high yield.

"Without taking anything from Wigan, I must say that I was very disappointed by what I saw.

"The problem is the table starts to stretch and now we need only two victories to get back amongst the pack at the bottom."

Blackburn part-time defensive coach Nigel Winterburn Ince felt should have more time to prove himself at Ewood Park.

"I would have liked to give him time to the transfer window in January to put in his own players," said Winterburn.

"I am positive he would have seen improvements, but the board decided that this is not the case.

"I think people are starting to panic. The results are not collected and they decided they needed someone else in place to drive the club forward."

Former Blackburn striker Kevin Gallagher told BBC Radio 5 Live that the club is desperate to avoid relegation and loss of income.

"I thought I had a little more time, perhaps engage in the transfer market, spend some money and see how it goes," said Gallagher. "But after seeing the president's face on TV at the weekend said that a great history.

"The club have a trust fund and they tried to sell the club. If the club down that much money lost and evaluation of the club down as well. I think they have a lot of Perhaps pressure on the board.

"The board tried to back Paul as much as they could, but the display at the weekend was the last straw - the pressure and said something to offer. Unfortunately, it was Paul. "

Gallagher admits that the club is currently not the most attractive for a new manager.

"Who will want to turn to the club now sitting second bottom?" he added. "They are struggling a bit, there are not many finances to here, there are quite a number of injuries.

"Steve McClaren has been mentioned, but it does very well in the Netherlands (at FC Twente) and I heard a small rumor about Roberto Mancini, there will be a lot of names mooted.

"The CVs that have been placed in a cabinet six months ago, when Paul got the job will be back again."

Blackburn's record scorer Simon Garner believes that the club has acted at the right time, and given his successor a chance to turn things around.

Garner told BBC Radio Lancashire: "The results were wrong and the board acted quickly.

"You have to admire them for trying to adjust and keep Blackburn in the Premier League.

"This is one of corporate earnings, particularly in the Premier League. You have to stay in this division.

"The transfer window is coming and you can see why they did. They want to find someone up to say that the players had to be done and those to come in."

Ince becomes the sixth Premier League manager to leave his post this season following the departure of Kevin Keegan (Newcastle), Alan Curbishley (West Ham), Juande Ramos (Tottenham), Harry Redknapp (Portsmouth) and his former team Manchester United Roy -mate Keane (Sunderland), Dec. 4.
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 16 December 2008 )

English Premiership football News

Ferdinand dismisses Arsenal hopes
Defending Manchester United Rio Ferdinand has written off Arsenal, the chances of mounting a challenge for the Fa Barclaycard Premiership title this season.

Ferdinand, 30, believes reigning champions United will face three-way battle with Chelsea and Liverpool.

"I presume we, Chelsea and Liverpool began to draw away a little after Christmas," he told BBC Radio 5 Live.

"It is not beyond them (Arsenal), it's just my personal opinion that this will be between us three this season."

Adrift Arsenal are eight points of leaders Liverpool, seven behind Chelsea and two outside United, having lost five and drawn three of their opening 17 games.

The Gunners, who are a point behind Aston Villa drew 1-1 at Middlesbrough on Saturday, while Liverpool drew at Hull to Anfield, Chelsea and West Ham United at Stamford Bridge and out to Tottenham.

United are at six points off the top of the third place, but have two games in hand upon their return from the FIFA World Club Cup in Japan.

Sir Alex Ferguson's side of the semi-final against the Gamba Osaka in Yokohama on Thursday to try to reach last Sunday.

United for the next football match is at Stoke on Boxing Day.

"We'll look and see what happens (this weekend)," said Ferdinand.

"Last weekend we were disappointed, especially after our game, but when you look at it, you should consider that we came out better than anyone because we have away and other teams drew at home.

"We can take some comfort, but that he would have been nice to have got the three points we would have been sitting pretty much as we are now.

"It seems that the teams points. Hull go to Anfield and get a draw is a tremendous result for them. Who would have thought that before the season started?

"West Ham get a draw at Chelsea was a surprise too. There were quite a few unusual results this season, but I'm sure it's good for the fans."

Former Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira insists his former club can win trophies this season, but they must find a consistency that has so far escaped them this term.
"It will be difficult, but I do not write off," said the Frenchman. "If we can find a way to carry out, week after week together, they can fight for the title.

"I expected to be a little better than they do. I expected to be closer to first place so it is disappointing so far.

"But there is a long way to go and I'm sure they'll be up there fighting for the title at the end of the season. They are capable of winning trophies this season."
Vieira, 32, believes that the sale of key players last summer has been at the expense Arsenal, but he believes that the replacement of young people should be given more time to prove themselves.

"You must keep your best players," he said. "Last year they lost (Mathieu) Flamini, Gilberto Silva, (Alexander) Hleb and Philippe Senderos, which is too many important players and they were the year before.

"Now you look at the average age of the team and you must be patient. They are young and need time to make Thursday after Thursday.
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 15 December 2008 )

English Premiership football News

Owen offered new Magpies contract
Newcastle have offered England Striker Michael Owen a new contract to extend his stay at St James' Park.

Owen's current deal in late summer of 2009 - when he could walk free from the Magpie.

The 29 years was 29 goals for Newcastle since joining the club from Real Madrid for € 17m in 2005.

Magpie manager Joe Kinnear has already said Owen will not be sold in the January transfer window - although I can not agree on the terms of a new contract.

Owen scored in Newcastle the 3-0 win over Portsmouth on Sunday and after Kinnear said: "Michael knows I want him to stay and we will not accept any offer for him.

"There is no point in taking any money from Michael when he can score 15 or 20 goals a season for us."

It is understood the Magpie presented the terms of the agreement Owen and delegates are currently awaiting their response.

In addition to goalkeeper Steve Harper, midfielder Nicky Butt and striker Shola Ameobi, the former Liverpool striker is one of several Newcastle players who are not contract at the end of the season.

Last week, I was not convinced to give Kinnear to persuade Owen to stay beyond the summer.

"I am quite confident all the others, but Michael is another kettle of fish," he said.

Owen has already put his finger room "unrest" as the reason for the delay in the adoption of a new contract.

It reiterated its position on the issue earlier this month, told BBC Sport: "I have not spoken to the club about my contract, despite all the speculation in the newspapers.

"I can not do anything until I sit down and start negotiating."

After former manager Kevin Keegan's controversial exit in September, owner Mike Ashley Magpie put on sale but was unable to find a buyer.

"We had some meetings earlier in the season and things went well," said Owen.

"Then the manager left - as someone on board who we were negotiating with - negotiations have not resumed since."
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 15 December 2008 )

English Premiership football News

Brown dismisses Dindane interest
Hull City manager Phil Brown Rubbish newspaper talk that the club are monitoring Ivory Coast international Aruna Dindane.

The 28 years, currently plays striker for Racing Club de Lens in France, but Brown has put all speculation to the player's agent.

He told BBC Radio Humberside: "There is a phone people say that we are on the list of interest.

"But no, I can say that we have no interest in the player whatsoever."

Meanwhile, Brown will focus its efforts on building the first team to the team KC Stadium when the transfer window re-opens on January 1 despite the recognition of the need to develop some young players.

"The company is based on the first team and to players in other football clubs to 17, 18 or 19 years of age is still going to cost a lot of money.

"The Academy will be an important part of the city of Hull and I hope we can get and as quickly as possible."
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 15 December 2008 )

English Premiership football News

Benjani out for 'number of weeks'
Manchester City Striker Benjani seems to miss the Christmas schedule with a Hamstring injury picked up during Saturday's 1-0 defeat by Everton.

Manchester City manager Mark Hughes told the club website: "It will probably be for a number of weeks.

"A number of people are carrying injuries and will have an impact when you have games coming up thick and fast.

"You need an adjustment Squad and, in this regard, we are fighting at the moment."

Starting from Thursday tie Uefa Cup against Spain's Racing Santander, city have four games in 10 days. They face West Brom, Hull and Blackburn in the Premier League during the Christmas period.

Zimbabwean international Benjani from Portsmouth has signed for £ 3.8 million in January but has played only seven times this season, scoring two goals after facing a problem of the thigh.
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 15 December 2008 )

English Premiership football News

Middlesbrough hit by Hoyte injury
Middlesbrough Justin Hoyte will be out of action for four weeks following knee surgery on damaged cartilage.

The 24-year-old full-back, £ 3m summer signing of Arsenal, could miss at least six games in a row.

He sat on Fa Barclaycard Premiership trip to Manchester United on December 29 and the wear-Tees derby clash with Sunderland on January 10.

Boro, currently 12th in the table, also have a Cup third round tie at home to non-league Barrow, January 3.
by bbcnews

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 15 December 2008 )

English Premiership football News

Chelsea home form worries Scolari
Luiz Felipe Scolari, it was accepted by the speaker of the house of Chelsea form after his side were held to a 1-1 draw by London rivals West Ham on Sunday.

The Blues have lost to Liverpool and Arsenal at Stamford Bridge this season and fell 14 points in total.

Blues boss Scolari said: "When we play here is different than how we play there, we have far more space.

"Maybe we're thinking" this is not our home and we are not scoring goals and I do not know what happens. "

Nicolas Anelka scored his 16th goal of the season to earn a point for Chelsea after Craig Bellamy gave the Hammers at half-time lead.

Scolari introduced Didier Drogba for Michael Ballack after the interval and had an immediate impact in setting up the equalizer Anelka.

But the former coach of Brazil said he would be reluctant to link together on a regular basis.

"I need cooperation from other players because Drogba has come when we lost in the midfield," said Scolari.

"When we lose the ball, we need visitors back in the mid to help win again.

"I need to have more training together."
West Ham manager Gianfranco Zola paid tribute to Chelsea fans after receiving a guitar affectionate ovation on his return to Stamford Bridge.

"The response has been incredible," said the former Blues player.

"Once again Chelsea fans have shown how they are.

"The first 15 minutes was strange that the fans singing my name and it is nice that I have not forgotten."
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 15 December 2008 )

English Premiership football News

Owen will not be sold - Kinnear
Newcastle boss Joe Kinnear said Michael Owen will not be sold in the January transfer window even if the attacker refuses to sign a new contract.

The attacker of the expiry of the contract during the summer and he will meet on Tuesday Kinnear to discuss a new deal.

"Michael knows I want him to stay and we will not accept any offers for him," Kinnear told BBC Sport.

"There is no point in taking any money from Michael when he can score 15 or 20 goals a season for us."

Last week, Kinnear admitted he was not convinced to persuade Owen to stay beyond the summer.

"I am quite confident all the others, but Michael is another kettle of fish," he said.

Owen, 28, has already put his finger room "unrest" as the reason for the delay in the adoption of a new contract with the club.

It reiterated its position on the issue, told BBC Sport: "I have not spoken to the club about my contract despite all the speculation in the newspapers.

"I can not do anything until I sit down and start negotiating."

After former manager Kevin Keegan's controversial exit in September, owner Mike Ashley Magpie put on sale but was unable to find a buyer.

"We had some meetings earlier in the season and things went well," striker Owen, 28, told BBC Sport in early December.

"Then the manager left as someone on board who we were negotiating with - negotiations have not resumed since."

Owen, who could walk from the club for free at the end of the season, said: "They have more things to fry than sorting my contract or contracts by Steven Harper, Shola Amoeba, Mark Viduka and Nicky Butt - There are many people out of contract. "
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 15 December 2008 )

English Premiership football News

Potters waiting on Sidibe injury
Stoke City Striker Mamady Sidibe will undergo a scan on his injured knee Monday after being removed on a stretcher during the draw with Fulham.

The Mali international, 28, landed awkwardly as he challenged for a header in the opening minute of The Game.

Potters manager Tony Pulis told BBC Radio Stoke: "The injury affected everyone. It was also an important player for us this year.

"When Mom goes down, not up, you fear the worst."

Sidibe was the last player to be added to the list of injuries at Stoke, with several others also have problems of nursing.

Andy Griffin and Salif Diao The Game against Fulham missed with injuries, while Rory Delap struggle to get rid of the effects of a shoulder problem.

0-0 draw extended Stoke Unbeaten Run to the Britannia Stadium in six games, but insists his team Pulis could have taken all three points against the Cottagers.

He added: "I think Fulham are a good side, they pass the ball well.

"You must take your chances when they are long, and we had a couple opportunities. If there is one of them is a different game. "
by bbcnews.