FA BARCLAYCARD PREMIERSHIP

Legend Sir Bobby Robson, 76, died

2009-07-31T15:58:00.000-07:00

English football News

Legend Sir Bobby Robson, 76, died

Obituary - Sir Bobby Robson 1933-2009

Former England manager Sir Bobby Robson has died at the age of 76, following a long battle with cancer.

Robson will be best remembered on the international stage for leading England to the 1990 World Cup semi-final.

At club level, he cut his managerial teeth at Fulham before establishing his credentials at Ipswich where he won the FA Cup and Uefa Cup in a 13-year stay.

Spells at PSV Eindhoven, Sporting Lisbon, Porto and Barcelona followed before he managed Newcastle United.

Robson, who was born in County Durham and watched the Magpies from the terraces, returned to his native north-east in 1999 in what was to be his last major role in football.

After leaving Newcastle, he was a consultant for the Republic of Ireland side while he battled cancer, and later took on an ambassadorial role for the Football Association of Ireland.

Many floral tributes have already been laid at St James' Park and Newcastle have said the ground will also be open over the weekend.

United's players and staff held a minute's silence at the training ground on Friday morning.

Flags at the Football Association headquarters in London's Soho Square and at Wembley Stadium flew at half mast.

Ipswich flags were also lowered at Portman Road and there was a minute's silence before Friday evening's friendly against Spanish side Real Valladolid.

Robson, who was first diagnosed with cancer 18 years ago in 1991, fought a brave battle against the disease.

He beat bowel cancer in 1992, a malignant melanoma in 1995 and a tumour in his right lung and a brain tumour, both in 2006.

In 2007 he vowed to "battle as I've always done" following the start of chemotherapy treatment after being diagnosed with cancer for the fifth time.

He made his final public appearance at a charity match at St James' Park on Sunday.

An England side, featuring Alan Shearer and several members of the 1990 World Cup squad including Paul Gascoigne and Peter Shilton, beat a Germany team 3-2 in front of almost 30,000 spectators.

The game was a repeat of the 1990 World Cup semi-final when England, managed by Sir Bobby, lost on penalties. Shearer scored the winner in Sunday's friendly, from the penalty spot.

A statement issued on behalf of Robson's family said: "It is with great sadness that it has been announced today that Sir Bobby Robson has lost his long and courageous battle with cancer.

"He died very peacefully this morning (Friday) at his home in County Durham with his wife and family beside him.

"Sir Bobby's funeral will be private and for family members only.

"A thanksgiving service in celebration of Sir Bobby's life will be held at a later date for his many friends and colleagues.

"Lady Robson and the family would very much appreciate it if their privacy could be respected at this difficult time."

Robson is survived by his wife Elsie, and their three children.

As a player, Robson, who played as a wing half, was a key member of the Fulham and West Brom team during the 1950s and 1960s and also won 20 caps for England.

But it was in management that he established himself as one of the greats of the game.

After a brief spell as a player-coach with Vancouver Royals in the North American Soccer League, he took over as boss of Fulham in January 1968 but was sacked by Christmas.

He took over as Ipswich manager in 1969 and guided the unfashionable East Anglian club to FA Cup and Uefa Cup victories in 1978 and 1981 respectively. He also twice led the Portman Road outfit to the runners-up spot in the old First Division.

Robson's Ipswich success led to him succeeding Ron Greenwood as England manager after the 1982 World Cup.

Failure to qualify for the 1984 European Championships was followed by a run to the quarter-finals of the 1986 World Cup in Mexico where England lost 2-1 to Maradona's 'Hand of God' goal and a superb individual strike by the Argentine legend.

The 1988 European Championships were also a write-off with England failing to win any of their group games, but at Italia 90, Robson came within a whisker of guiding the national team to its first World Cup final since winning the tournament in 1966.

England needed extra-time to defeat Belgium and Cameroon in the knock-out stages, but came unstuck on penalties against West Germany in the semi-final. Gary Lineker forced extra-time with a late equaliser, but Stuart Pearce and Chris Waddle missed from the spot as England bowed out.

Lineker told BBC Sport: "It is a sad day and a great loss. He was a wonderful man and will be deeply missed by everybody in the country.

"I never played for a more enthusiastic man. He gave so much to the game."

During the tournament, it was revealed that Robson would be leaving his England role to take over at Dutch side PSV Eindhoven, where he went on to win successive league titles in 1991 and 92.

He moved on to Portuguese side Sporting Lisbon at the end of the season, but his stay lasted only 18 months and it was at rivals Porto that he collected more silverware. The 1994 Portuguese Cup was followed by two more league titles.

That sparked interest from Barcelona and Robson moved to Spain in 1996 where he won the European Cup Winners' Cup and Copa del Rey in his first season in charge.

A brief return to PSV preceded his 1999 move to Newcastle and he led his beloved Magpies from the bottom of the Premier League in that campaign to fourth place in 2001/02 and third the following season.

In 2002 he was knighted in the Queen's Birthday Honours List.

He was sacked by Newcastle in 2004, when he was 71, following a poor start to the season - but he was later given the freedom of the city.

In May 2008, he was given the freedom of Ipswich to mark the 30th anniversary of their 1-0 FA Cup win over Arsenal.
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership

2009-06-23T00:24:00.000-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News

English Premier League football News

IS COMING SOON...

Fa Barclaycard Premiership Result

2009-05-02T14:24:00.000-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 02 May 2009 )

English Premier League football Result

FT Middlesbrough 0 - 2 Manchester United

FT Chelsea 3 - 1 Fulham

FT Manchester City 3 - 1 Blackburn R.

FT Portsmouth 0 - 3 Arsenal

FT Stoke C. 0 - 1 West Ham U.

FT Tottenham H. 1 - 0 West Bromwich A.

FT Wigan Athletic 0 - 0 Bolton W.

by livescore

Fa Barclaycard Premiership Result.

2009-04-25T13:39:00.001-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 25 April 2009 )

English Premier League football Result.

FT Bolton W. 1 - 1 Aston Villa

FT Everton 1 - 2 Manchester City.

FT Fulham 1 - 0 Stoke C.

FT Hull City. 1 - 3 Liverpool

FT West Bromwich A. 3 - 0 Sunderland

FT West Ham 0 - 1 Chelsea

FT Manchester United. 5 - 2 Tottenham H.

by livescore

Dawson ruled out for three weeks

2009-04-24T23:54:00.000-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 24 March 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Dawson ruled out for three weeks
Tottenham defender Michael Dawson is expected to be out for up to three weeks after suffering a partially torn ankle ligament.

The 25-year-old fell awkwardly on his left foot during Spurs' 1-0 home win over Newcastle last Sunday.

Spurs boss Harry Redknapp was concerned the centre-back may have broken a bone, describing the injury as "nasty".

But Dawson will hope to be fit for the club's final two matches of the season against Manchester City and Liverpool.

Dawson was only playing against the Magpies after Ledley King felt a twinge in his knee.

Previously, his most recent start for Tottenham had been on 4 March in the 4-0 win over Middlesbrough.

Meanwhile, Redknapp is without Roman Pavlyuchenko (back) for the trip to Manchester United but Jermain Defoe could make his first start in three months after recovering from a foot injury.
by bbcnews.

Shearer pleads for crowd backing

2009-04-24T23:51:00.000-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 24 March 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Shearer pleads for crowd backing
Newcastle boss Alan Shearer thinks the support of the St James' Park crowd could make the difference in keeping the Magpies in the Premier League.

The Magpies lie second bottom and host Portsmouth in a crunch clash on Monday, Shearer's fourth game in charge.

"The crowd can help play a massive part - they've turned up in their thousands for years and had nothing to shout about," he told BBC Radio Newcastle.

"I'm asking them for three games this season to really really get behind us."

Of the Pompey game, the former England striker said: "Without a doubt it's a massive game for us.

"Everyone's aware of the importance of it, I want a fantastic atmosphere and the crowd to get behind us.

"I hope that the players can respond in the right way. I've asked the players for a response and hopefully I'll get one against Portsmouth."
by bbcnews

Griffiths waits on West Brom move

2009-04-24T23:46:00.000-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 24 March 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Griffiths waits on West Brom move
West Brom manager Tony Mowbray is yet to decide whether to follow up his interest in trialist Leigh Griffiths, who has returned to Livingston.

The 18-year-old striker trained with the English Premier League club and has scored 18 goals so far this season.

"He is a boy who wouldn't be coming to go straight into our first-team squad," said Mowbray. "We will wait and see if we pursue it.

"He would be a young player to compete with other young players at our club."

Mowbray signed Graham Dorrans from the Scottish First Division club last summer and the midfielder has recently featured in the Baggies first-team.

"The relationship between the two clubs has allowed Leigh to come down here to West Brom for a few days," added Mowbray.

"We got in Graham Dorrans from Livingston last summer and he has been showing that he has the potential to be a decent footballer."

Mowbray has also watched Swindon forward Simon Cox in action and is keen to keep on-loan Nancy striker Marc Antoine-Fortune at the Hawthorns.

"Marc is well within his rights to keep his own counsel because I can't question anything he is doing on the field," Mowbray said.

"If I saw any signs of him stepping off the gas, he wouldn't be playing.

"But I see a very committed and very whole-hearted player giving everything for this club.

"Yes, he is a player we would like to keep if there could be a deal that could be done because his quality is very evident.

"We will wait and see. There is an agreed fee but it is not locked in."
by bbcnews.

Hilight English Premiership Liverpool 4 - 4 Arsenal

2009-04-22T01:45:00.000-07:00

Hilight English Premiership 2009

Liverpool 4 - 4 Arsenal

Fa Barclaycard Premiership Result.

2009-04-22T01:40:00.000-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 21 April 2009 )

English Premier League football Result.

FT Liverpool 4 - 4 Arsenal

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 21 April 2009 )

English Premier League football Result

FT Chelsea 0 - 0 Everton

FT Manchester United. 2 - 0 Portsmouth

by livescore

Stoke to assess Wilkinson injury

2009-04-20T16:59:00.000-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 20 April 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Stoke to assess Wilkinson injury
Stoke City defender Andy Wilkinson will have a scan on his back on Monday, after hobbling off during their 1-0 win over Blackburn Rovers.

The 24-year-old was caught with a knee in his lower back from Rovers midfielder Morten Gamst Pederson and had to be substituted after half-time.

Wilkinson told BBC Radio Stoke: "It felt like I'd been shot at the time, it's very painful and has swollen up.

"I'll have to see what the scan says but hopefully I'll be OK."
by bbcnews.

Kranjcar injury fears played down

2009-04-20T16:56:00.000-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 20 April 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Kranjcar injury fears played down
Portsmouth midfielder Niko Kranjcar may play again this season despite being stretchered off with an ankle injury in Saturday's 1-0 home win over Bolton.

Kranjcar, 24, was carried off after a 75th-minute challenge by Gavin McCann.

The Croatian, who had ankle surgery in August, will miss Wednesday's trip to Manchester United but an X-ray has revealed no fracture or serious damage.

"He is looking a lot better and we hope he will be back sooner rather than later," said Portsmouth boss Paul Hart.

"He is a quick healer, a boy with a strong and positive mental attitude, and that is a big boost for us because he is an integral part of our plans and has been doing well."

Kranjcar, who missed two months with his previous ankle injury and tore a groin muscle in January, will have a further scan later in the week but Portsmouth doctor Nigel Sellars is confident he will not be out for quite as long this time.

"It seems clear it is only soft tissue damage and hopefully not long term," he said.

Meanwhile, defender Younes Kaboul missed training on Monday, after he was substituted late on against Bolton with a thigh injury, and is doubtful for the trip to Old Trafford.
by bbcnews.

West Brom brace in vain - Brunt

2009-04-20T16:53:00.000-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 20 April 2009 )

English Premier League football News

West Brom brace in vain - Brunt
West Bromwich Albion winger Chris Brunt was left feeling hollow after his two goals failed to prevent a 4-2 defeat at Manchester City.

The Baggies slipped closer to relegation from the Premier League as they stayed nine points shy of safety.

"I'm delighted to get two goals but it doesn't mean very much not coming away with any points," Brunt told BBC WM.

"We should've had the game wrapped up inside 10 minutes with all the chances that we created."

Brunt's brace saw West Brom bounce back from two goals down to level at 2-2, only for Jonas Olsson to undo their hard work with a poorly time tackle on Elano, the Brazilian got up to convert the spot-kick.

The Baggies are left needing to win all five of their remaining fixtures to have a realistic chance of preserving their status in the top flight and even then they will be relying on other results.

"There's going to be a lot of twists and turns before the end of the season and a lot of them are going to need to go our way," said the Northern Ireland international.

"We've still got five games to play, 15 points, and until someone tells you it's not possible you've just got to keep believing."

The former Sheffield Wednesday winger has been switched to the right-hand side over the last few weeks, and it is a role that he has adjusted to well.

"I think it suits me for getting shots at goal, coming in on my stronger foot - I've enjoyed it for the last couple of games," he added.

The Baggies will need to overcome Sunderland at The Hawthorns on Saturday to maintain any faint hopes of avoiding the trap-door to the Championship.
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership Result.

2009-04-18T16:00:00.000-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 18 April 2009 )

English Premier League football Result.

FT Aston Villa 1 - 1 West Ham U.

FT Middlesbrough 0 - 0 Fulham

FT Portsmouth 1 - 0 Bolton W.

FT Stoke City. 1 - 0 Blackburn R.

FT Sunderland 1 - 0 Hull City.

by livescore.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 19 April 2009 )

English Premier League football Result.

FT Tottenham Hotspur. 1 - 0 Newcastle U.

FT Manchester City. 4 - 2 West Bromwich A.

by livescore

Fa Barclaycard Premiership Result.

2009-04-13T11:26:00.000-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 12 April 2009 )

English Premier League football Result.

FT Aston Villa 3 - 3 Everton

FT Manchester City 1 - 3 Fulham

by livescore.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership Result.

2009-04-11T23:52:00.000-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 11 April 2009 )

English Premier League football Result.

FT Liverpool 4 - 0 Blackburn R.

FT Chelsea 4 - 3 Bolton W.

FT Middlesbrough 3 - 1 Hull C.

FT Portsmouth 2 - 2 West Bromwich A.

FT Sunderland 1 - 2 Manchester U.

FT Tottenham H. 1 - 0 West Ham U.

FT Wigan Athletic 1 - 4 Arsenal

FT Stoke C. 1 - 1 Newcastle U.

by livescore.

West Ham tie down Noble & Tomkins

2009-04-08T14:51:00.001-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 08 April 2009 )

English Premier League football News

West Ham tie down Noble & Tomkins
West Ham youngsters Mark Noble and James Tomkins have signed new deals to keep them at Upton Park until 2013.

Midfielder Noble, 21, is West Ham's longest-serving player, while defender Tomkins turned 20 only last month.

"I'm just delighted to have signed and hope we can push on and try to get that European place," said Noble.

Tomkins said: "I feel I'm getting better with each game; I've become more mature, and going on loan (to Derby) did me a lot of good."

West Ham have risen to seventh in the Premier League under the guidance of Gianfranco Zola, who has rewarded a number of the club's home-grown players.

Tomkins scored his first senior goal in last Saturday's 2-0 victory over Sunderland, along with fellow youth team product Junior Stanislas.

"I've come in at a time when we're pushing for a European place and I'm really enjoying my football," Tomkins told West Ham's official website.
by bbcnews.

West Ham tie down Noble & Tomkins

2009-04-08T14:51:00.000-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 08 April 2009 )

English Premier League football News

West Ham tie down Noble & Tomkins

Portsmouth post losses of £16.6m

2009-04-08T14:49:00.000-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 08 April 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Portsmouth post losses of £16.6m
Struggling Portsmouth made losses of £16.66m for the 2007-08 financial year, despite winning the FA Cup.

The loss was nearly £7m less than the previous year and the club said it should see another reduction next year.

"The club is on course to break-even by the time Fratton Park is redeveloped to accommodate 30,000 fans by the season 2010/11," the club said on its website.

With Pompey a reported £80m in debt, owner Alexandre Gaydamak put the club up for sale in December.

The results do not include recent outgoing and incoming transfers.

Portsmouth sold Pedro Mendes to Rangers for £3m and Sulley Muntari to Inter Milan for £12.7m last summer, while Lassana Diarra moved to Real Madrid for £20m and Jermain Defoe to Tottenham Hotspur for £15m this January.

The purchases of Peter Crouch (£9m), Younes Kaboul (undisclosed), Nadir Belhadj (undisclosed) and Hayden Mullins (undisclosed) were also not taken into account.

Last month Portsmouth postponed plans to build a new stadium and focus on redeveloping their current Fratton Park ground, partially due to the global credit crunch.

In the short term, the club will look to boost their coffers by building two new stands to increase the capacity of Fratton Park by 10,000 to 30,000.

Once the stadium is redeveloped, Pompey expect turnover to increase by 50%.

A new three-year television deal with Sky helped turnover for 2007-08 to rise from around £40m to £70m and there were increases in retail, sponsorship, match revenues and hospitality.

Much of this was aided by the FA Cup triumph over Cardiff at Wembley.

Portsmouth have had three managers this season - Harry Redknapp, Tony Adams and current caretaker boss Paul Hart - and have yet to secure their Premier League status this season.

Hart side's are fifth from bottom, four points above the drop zone, though they have have a game in hand over their relegation rivals.
by bbcnews.

Blackburn suffer Roberts setback

2009-04-08T14:47:00.000-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 08 April 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Blackburn suffer Roberts setback
Blackburn's Jason Roberts will miss the next three weeks with a stress fracture in his foot.

The striker was withdrawn at half-time during the 2-1 victory over Tottenham on Saturday, but an MRI scan revealed he will not require surgery.

And Rovers are confident the 31-year-old Grenada international will be fit to resume at the end of the month.

Roberts has scored five goals in 13 Premier League matches since new boss Sam Allardyce took over in December.
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership Result.

2009-04-08T14:42:00.000-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 04 April 2009 )

English Premier League football Result.

FT Blackburn R. 2 - 1 Tottenham H.

FT Arsenal 2 - 0 Manchester City.

FT Bolton W. 4 - 1 Middlesbrough

FT Hull City. 0 - 0 Portsmouth

FT Newcastle U. 0 - 2 Chelsea

FT West Bromwich A. 0 - 2 Stoke City.

FT West Ham U. 2 - 0 Sunderland

FT Fulham 0 - 1 Liverpool

FT Everton 4 - 0 Wigan Athletic

FT Manchester United. 3 - 2 Aston Villa

by livescore.

Hiddink wary of 'Shearer effect'

2009-04-03T10:43:00.000-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 03 April 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Hiddink wary of 'Shearer effect'

Shearer insists he will only be in charge until the end of the season.

Chelsea manager Guus Hiddink says his side will be facing a revitalised Newcastle when the sides meet at St James' Park on Saturday.

Former Magpies striker Alan Shearer has been appointed Newcastle manager for the remaining eight games of the season in a bid to save them from relegation.

"Everyone knows their situation, there will be a reaction from the team and the crowd," said Hiddink.

"We can expect a tight game and a lot of fighting spirit from our opponents."

Shearer has only a short period of time to rescue Newcastle, who are currently in the relegation zone of the Premier League and two points from safety.

Newcastle, who have won only one of their last 12 matches, have a tough run-in beginning with title-chasing Chelsea.

Hiddink has suffered twice at the hands of Shearer the player - when England beat Holland at Euro 96 and when Newcastle knocked PSV Eindhoven out of the Uefa Cup in 2004 - and believes his appointment will give Newcastle a big lift.

"You have to respect the decision that has been made by whoever is in charge and there is always a reaction when something happens in a club. It was the same here," added Hiddink.

"I respect him very much. I know him as a player. He is quite a personality and will have an influence on the team. There will be a hectic atmosphere on Saturday. It forces us to give everything we have.

"I cannot judge whether he will stay longer than eight games, that is not my big problem. But it is always good to have big players making a transition to a manager.

"But he will not play and I will not play. It is not a game between managers. The instant input and change in the dressing room will give their players a lot of energy and that is an extra aspect of the game we have to deal with."

Chelsea skipper Frank Lampard says his side must not let the vociferous reception that is sure to greet the 38-year-old affect them.

"You can imagine what the atmosphere is going to be like," said the midfielder.

"Alan Shearer is regarded as a god up there - and quite rightly so after what he achieved for the club.

"He will definitely get the Newcastle fans going and he will get the Newcastle players going."

Lampard's comments were echoed by Blues captain John Terry , who says they are intent on making it an unhappy return to St James' Park for Shearer.

"The title race is still not over for us and we will be going there to hopefully upset him in his first game in charge," said Terry.

"Alan Shearer is Newcastle through and through and him taking over as the manager is going to give them a massive lift.

"But it is down to us to go there, show what we are capable of, which we have been doing a lot of the time recently, and get a result."

Newcastle have not won in their last five outings, and have not won at home since the 2-1 victory over Tottenham on 21 December.

But Chelsea have the best away record in the top flight, despite the 1-0 loss at Tottenham on 21 March, and Lampard is looking for his team to turn in a repeat performance of when they faced Manchester City on Robinho's debut for the club.

The Brazilian forward scored a deflected free-kick to give City the lead, but the Blues dampened the sense of optimism at Eastlands by coming back to win 3-1.

"We had the same scenario when we went and played Manchester City just after they signed Robinho," recalled Lampard.

"But we have to react to the atmosphere and we have to try and get a result to put us back on track after the Tottenham game."

Meanwhile, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger says the appointment of Shearer will have a positive effect on Newcastle.

"It's a bit of mental doping for the whole Newcastle area," said Wenger. "It will give them belief and give them hope again.

"Having played Newcastle recently, I believe they have a good side that look to be capable of getting out of relegation trouble.

"They will be in it now until the last game of the season but he can help them to give that fraction of belief again to win games."

Asked if it is possible for a manager to come in and totally transform the club within eight games, Wenger said: "No, that is not a manager anymore, that's a magician.

"But what a manager can do in the short term is to work on the mental side and give a psychological lift."

Blackburn boss Sam Allardyce believes the high regard for Shearer on Tyneside gives him the best chance of leading Newcastle out of the relegation zone.

Allardyce spent eight months at the St James' Park helm before leaving the club in January 2008 amid criticism of the playing style adopted by his team.

Newcastle were 11th in the Premier League when the two parted company.

"It's easier for him because of his status and I think his support from everyone at Newcastle will be 1000%," said Allardyce.

"Alan's obviously hoping that extra spur from him going in and the fans' reaction will spur the players on to do better.

"His legendary status gives everybody a major lift and if that gets a better performance out of the players, then it works."

Everton manager David Moyes helped tutor Shearer for his Uefa A-licence qualification, one level below the top Pro licence.

"He was a good pupil. For many people who come in the hardest part is the organisation and the planning," he said.

"You don't need to tell them where to stand and where to run because they have been doing that all their life.

"It is being able to tell other people how to do that and communicate, but Alan was fine, he was very good at that."
by bbcnews.

Cole injury blow rocks West Ham

2009-04-03T10:38:00.000-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 03 April 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Cole injury blow rocks West Ham
West Ham striker Carlton Cole has been ruled out for six weeks because of the groin injury he aggravated in England's friendly win over Slovakia.

Hammers boss Gianfranco Zola says Cole was not fully fit for the game but he did not want to deny him the chance to play for his country.

"He will not need surgery but there is a problem between the muscle and the tendon in his groin," said Zola.

Cole joins Dean Ashton, Valon Behrami and Jack Collison on the injury list.

His injury could hardly come at a worse time, as with eight games to go, West Ham are eighth in the Premier League and still in the hunt for a European place.

Cole has recently broken into the England side and is also his club's top scorer this season with 11 goals.
by bbcnews.

Angry Bruce lambasts absent Zaki

2009-04-03T10:33:00.001-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 03 April 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Angry Bruce lambasts absent Zaki
Wigan boss Steve Bruce has questioned Amr Zaki's future at the club after the striker failed to report back from international duty for the fourth time.

The club have been unable to contact the 26-year-old since he played for Egypt against Zambia on Sunday.
"I can honestly say that in all my time in football I have never worked with someone as unprofessional," said Bruce.

"In Zaki's case it really defies belief from a player who is on loan and trying to earn himself a long-term contract."

Zaki, who scored Egypt's only goal in a 1-1 draw with Zambia, started the season in superb form with nine goals in 13 games, taking him to the top of the Premier League goalscoring list.

But he has struggled to maintain those high standards, with his last goal for Wigan coming on 28 December.

"I really am at the end of my tether with him," said Bruce, who will fine Zaki for the latest indiscretion.

"I am now fearful that if I don't take firm action, it will disrupt the rest of my squad, who - to a man - behave totally professionally," continued Bruce on Wigan's official website.

"Before this latest incident, Zaki had already been fined considerably more than the average person in Britain earns in a year and he will now face another heavy fine.

"This is the fourth time he has not reported back on time from international training.

"I have already fined him the maximum allowed but this just seems to have no effect."

The Egypt team doctor has faxed Wigan a report claiming that Zaki has picked up a hamstring injury and needs rest, but that has not been backed up by the required scan.

"I just feel it's time that we went public on just what a nightmare he has been to deal with," added Bruce.

"I am right behind my players representing their countries, it is a tremendous honour for the club. This is not the issue here.

"My South American players, for instance, have to go much longer distances but I have never had a problem with any of them.

"I'm sick of answering questions about Zaki's whereabouts and I don't want anything to distract the players from preparing for another massive game for us on Sunday against Everton.

"Zaki's behaviour has shown total disrespect to the club who pays him a very good wage and, equally as importantly, to the fans who sing his name from the stands.

"I think it's time for them to know the truth about the man.

"This situation needs to be resolved as soon as possible and I don't feel it's appropriate to say anything more at this stage, apart from how let down I feel, personally and professionally."

Zaki's Egypt and Wigan team-mate Mido made it back to the JJB Stadium on time.
by bbcnews.

Hiddink reveals Chelsea job offer

2009-03-29T10:16:00.000-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 29 March 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Hiddink reveals Chelsea job offer
Chelsea's interim manager Guus Hiddink has revealed that he may stay with the club beyond the end of this season - but in the role of a consultant.

The Dutchman, who is also Russia's national team coach, has a contract with the Premier League side which runs until the end of May.

He said: "They have asked me to continue working for them after that date as a consultant.

"Maybe I can be useful for Chelsea in that role."

Chelsea players Michael Ballack and Petr Cech have publicly urged the club to extend Hiddink's stay after seven wins from his first eight games in charge.

And one potential barrier to Hiddink remaining at Stamford Bridge in some capacity appears to have been removed after a key figure in the Russian Football Association claimed he was happy for him to continue his dual role.

Alexey Sorokin, the general secretary of the Russian FA, told the Daily Mail: "If Chelsea say they would like to continue we are ready to discuss it.

"We are comfortable with the situation. We would be uncomfortable if it were a Russian club because when a coach comes from a Russian club to the national team he tends to look after his players more than the players from other clubs. But there is no such contradiction here.

"If Hiddink says he can handle it, we have no reasons not to believe it. He is a responsible person with a lot of experience and if he takes that responsibility he will perform for certain."

Last week, Hiddink said his contract as Russia coach could end early should they fail to make the 2010 World Cup.

He had previously insisted he had no plans to stay on at Stamford Bridge, but if Russia do not make it to the tournament in South Africa, he may become free for a role beyond consultancy.

"We put a clause in there saying that, if Russia do not qualify, we can talk about leaving," said Hiddink.

"My contract expires at the period of 2010 World Cup. But we also said that if we don't qualify and the Russian Federation likes to go in a different direction, then we have to talk about how to end the contract.

"We could go on, still. It would be up to them if they want to go in a different direction. I've not thought about it. I'll be here until the end of May."

Russia are currently second in Uefa Group Four, four points behind Germany having played a game less.

While the winners of each group will qualify for the World Cup automatically, the eight best runners-up will contest two-legged play-offs for Europe's remaining four places.

Hiddink's record in the World Cup is impressive, having lead the Netherlands and South Korea to the semi-final stages in 1998 and 2002 and steering Australia to the knock-out stages in Germany four years ago.

Since taking charge of Russia in 2006, he has moulded the team into one of the strongest in Europe, overseeing their qualification ahead of England for the Euro 2008 and an impressive last-four showing in the finals in Austria and Switzerland. by bbcnews.

Sidibe waits on cruciate injury

2009-03-29T10:11:00.000-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 29 March 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Sidibe waits on cruciate injury
Stoke City striker Mamady Sidibe could be out of action for just a few weeks or up to nine months, after a different diagnosis from two specialists.

The Mali international striker twisted his knee before a reserve-team game on Monday and he said it is his cruciate ligament that is damaged.

He told BBC Radio Stoke: "We don't know whether it's torn or ruptured, it doesn't feel too good."

Sidibe will see two more specialists on Thursday and Friday.

"I could go to Paris to see the French national team doctor on Friday, we will have to wait and see," he added.

The 29-year-old injured the same knee in December against Fulham and the latest setback happened as he warmed up for a reserve-team game at Aston Villa.

"My heel got planted in the turf and my knee twisted. I felt it straight away, it is very painful.

"If it's only a slight tear then I could be back before the end of the season but if it's ruptured then it will be months."

The two MRI scans that Sidibe has had so far have not been conclusive as to what the problem is.

And he added: "They're thinking about putting a camera in there to see if what the damage is but if it's nothing then it will take three weeks to get over the operation."

The former Gillingham forward was Stoke City's player-of-the-year in 2008 and has scored three Premier League goals in 22 appearances this season.
by bbcnews.

Le Saux backs Chelsea title bid

2009-03-26T15:59:00.000-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 26 March 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Le Saux backs Chelsea title bid
Former Chelsea defender Graeme Le Saux thinks the Blues can still win the Premier League title.

Boss Guus Hiddink hinted after the loss to Spurs that the bid to overhaul Manchester United, who are four points above them, and Liverpool may be over.

But Le Saux told BBC London 94.9: "I feel there's still enough games for us to have opportunities, but the momentum is with Liverpool.

"I talked about it being a one-horse race, I've been made to eat my words."

Le Saux made over 250 appearances for Chelsea in two spells with the club.

He left two years for Southampton before the club's first Premier League title in 2005, but has still been monitoring their progress closely.

He admits that Saturday's 1-0 defeat at Tottenham was a severe blow to their hopes, especially with Manchester United slipping up with a shock defeat.

"I don't think anybody would have foreseen what Manchester United were going to do in the last three or four weeks," he said.

"It has really made it very uncertain, but from Chelsea's point of view it's a disappointing result given the timing, it would have been an fantastic opportunity to have really got right back behind Manchester United and keep up with Liverpool. But I feel there's enough games for us to have opportunities.

"It's been an absolutely fascinating Premier League this year at all different stages of the table there's been some fascinating battles.

"I just hope that we can perform well as we have done under Guus Hiddink, shake off the disappointing result against Tottenham and remain focused on being ready for a slip-up from either Manchester United or Liverpool above us."

Le Saux, now 40, retired in 2005 while at Southampton.

Graeme Le Saux was speaking on the 'Inside Chelsea' Podcast, available to download now on the BBC Sport Website.
by bbcnews.

Hughes quashes Robinho rift talk

2009-03-26T15:54:00.000-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 26 March 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Hughes quashes Robinho rift talk
Manchester City manager Mark Hughes has played down reports of a rift between himself and Robinho.

In January, the 25-year-old Brazilian playmaker was fined for leaving the club's training camp on the Spanish island of Tenerife without permission.

Rumours have persisted that they have a poor relationship - along with reports that Robinho will leave in the summer.

But Hughes told BBC Radio 5 Live: "The truth is it's a lot closer to being a lot calmer than people would imagine."

Robinho joined City for a British record £32.5m in September and signed a four-year deal.

He got off to a great start, scoring 12 goals before the end of the year, but has yet to get off the mark in 2009 and made that unscheduled departure in January by flying home to Brazil without telling Hughes that he had to attend some "family business".

"There's a perception that there are issues between me and Robinho, and Robinho and his team-mates, and that everything is doom and gloom and the dressing room is fractured," said Hughes.

"We have all the predictable stories emanating from outside parties but it's calmer than people would imagine."

The forward has also been linked with a move away from Eastlands at the end of the season but Hughes is not ready to sell.

"Robinho is in my plans long term. People who say otherwise are just being mischievous," he insisted.

"He is an outstanding player who wants to be part of what we are doing but he is also a professional football player and he doesn't enjoy getting beaten."

Meanwhile, any hope of Kaka coming to Eastlands to forge a partnership with Robinho has also been quashed by Hughes.

The club failed with an audacious £100m bid to bring the 26-year-old AC Milan attacking midfielder to Eastlands in the January transfer window and the City manager says that door is now firmly closed on the Brazilian.

"When an opportunity presents itself to bring in one of the top players in world football you have to move quickly to make it happen, as you never know if that opportunity will present itself again in the future," Hughes said.

"The likelihood is that it won't, but that situation has gone - at the time we wanted to make it happen, but we're not going to revisit."

City's executive chairman Garry Cook defended their approach for the Brazilian.

He told BBC Radio 5 Live: "It wasn't the amount of money, it was Manchester City putting themselves in that arena that was the biggest surprise for most people.

"It goes back to the understanding of what we were doing. We'd put four months of work into it but there was the perception that it was a whim.

"It absolutely wasn't that and we wouldn't expect to be doing anything at this club on a whim.

"It was well thought through and there was return on the investment as he is a great player and a great character.

"We felt he fitted into Mark's plans and fitted into the character of the club and where we want to go.

"When you're making those investments you have to be careful when your talking about the levels to make sure it's the right move and we felt it was the right move."
by bbcnews

Southgate receives Boro backing

2009-03-24T13:12:00.000-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 24 March 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Southgate receives Boro backing
Middlesbrough chairman Steve Gibson insists sacking manger Gareth Southgate will not solve the club's current plight as they bid to avoid relegation.

Boro have won just one of their last 18 Premier League games and are second from bottom, four points from safety.

"I have spoken with a lot of fans over the last few weeks and they ask me about Gareth Southgate," Gibson told the club's official website.

"But the magic wand in our situation isn't sacking Gareth Southgate."

He added: "Of course, everybody has their opinion in football and I understand the frustration of the fans.

"I have always said that we have a knowledgeable crowd at Middlesbrough and you have to respect that.

"I take on board the views of the fans because I care as much as they do. But if I was to sack Gareth Southgate at this stage, how would it help the situation?"

The international break could not have come at a better time for Boro after a 1-0 defeat by relegation rivals Stoke on Saturday left Southgate to admit that the club's relegation scrap is affecting players' morale.

They resume with a trip to Bolton, before facing Hull and Fulham at the Riverside in a series of games which could prove crucial in their bid for survival.

Gibson, who appointed Terry Venables to assist Bryan Robson in their successful bid for survival during the 2000-01 season, is known for his patience and retains the belief that Southgate is the right man for the job.

"Gareth has great experience of football at every level. He is working to the best of his ability to turn things around," he said.

"When he was a player, he worked immensely hard to make himself a better player. He does exactly the same as a manager.

"I couldn't expect any more from him in terms of blood, sweat and tears.

"We can't put what happens on the pitch fully on Gareth's shoulders, and that's why we have to share the workload and the responsibility.

"When things go wrong, people lose faith in the manager. But there is a lot more involved and we must always continue to look at the wider picture before coming to decisions."
by bbcnews.

Sidibe faces scan on knee injury

2009-03-24T13:09:00.000-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 24 March 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Sidibe faces scan on knee injury
Stoke City's Mamady Sidibe will have a scan on a knee injury after being stretchered off before a reserve-team game against Aston Villa.

The Mali striker fell awkwardly clutching his left knee in the warm-up before the 1-0 defeat.

The 29-year-old was out for two months after hyper-extending the same knee against Fulham in December.

The former Gillingham man has made 22 appearances this season in the Premier League, scoring three goals.
by bbcnews

Jacobsen targets Everton success

2009-03-24T13:00:00.000-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 24 March 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Jacobsen targets Everton success
Everton defender Lars Jacobson hopes the Blues' good form will continue in the Premier League and FA Cup as they chase success on both fronts.

Saturday's 2-1 defeat at Portsmouth was Everton's second defeat in 19 games but Jacobson says the squad are confident.

"We're still in a good position and we have some big games coming up," the 29-year-old told BBC Radio Merseyside.

"I think we are still able to be racing for that fourth place if we can continue our good play."

The Denmark international added: "We have to focus on the next game.

"The next game is Wigan at home. They're a great team and it will be a difficult day for us but we're playing at home so we have to win."

Everton have had a series of injuries during the course of the season which has seen influential players like Yakubu and Mikel Arteta out with long-term injury problems.

But Jacobsen, who made his Blues debut in the 2-1 defeat at Frattan Park, says the spirit in the camp is always evident, especially when they get late goals.

"We've scored some late winners during the season. So I think that's what this Everton thing is about - team spirit and always digging in there.

"That is the reason why we score so many late goals," he said.
by bbcnews

Anelka faces spell on sidelines

2009-03-24T12:52:00.000-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 24 March 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Anelka faces spell on sidelines
Chelsea striker Nicolas Anelka faces a three-week spell on the sidelines because of a toe injury, according to the French Football Federation.

Anelka, 30, played the full 90 minutes of Chelsea's 1-0 Premier League defeat at Tottenham on Saturday.

He was assessed by the France squad's medics before being replaced for the World Cup qualifiers with Lithuania.

Chelsea have yet to comment but Anelka may miss the games against Newcastle on 4 April and Liverpool on 8 April.

Anelka is currently the top scorer in the Premier League this season with 15 goals but his last strike came against Aston Villa on 21 February in Guus Hiddink's first match in charge of the Blues.

However, if he is sidelined for his club, the forward's loss should be tempered by the recent return to fitness and form of Didier Drogba.
by bbcnews.

English Premier League football News

Injured Adebayor in Togo's squad
Arsenal's Emmanuel Adebayor has been called up to the Togo squad for this weekend's World Cup qualifier against Cameroon, despite being injured.

The striker, who has been out for six weeks with a hamstring injury, could be at the centre of a club-versus-country row if he plays.

The 25-year-old is not due to return to first-team action with Arsenal until after the international break.

But his club have confirmed he will travel to Africa for Saturday's clash.

Togo are likely to use the presence of Adebayor in the squad to boost team morale and it remains doubtful he will play.

Arsene Wenger is expected to monitor whether his striker makes an appearance.

Wenger expects to have Adebayor back for the club's Champions League and English Premier League campaigns after the international break.

Saturday's tie is Togo's opening Group A game in the final round of qualifiers for the World Cup and Africa Cup of Nations.
by bbcnews.

Sunderland not safe yet - Sbragia

2009-03-24T12:48:00.001-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 24 March 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Sunderland not safe yet - Sbragia
Sunderland manager Ricky Sbragia does not think his side are safe from relegation yet, but believes they have enough quality to stay up.

Sunday's 1-0 defeat at Manchester City leaves the club just three points clear of danger and Sbragia wants Premier League security sooner than later.

"We've got to pick up points in the next five games - we need to do that," he told BBC Radio Newcastle.

"I'm confident that we're good enough to stay up."

Meanwhile Sbragia was pleased with the response from his side to the defeat by Wigan the previous Saturday.

The Scot was furious with his players after that performance but has been encouraged by the way his players went about Mark Hughes' side on Sunday.

"I couldn't see any good points in the Wigan game except for Grant Leadbitter," Sbragia said.

"We played much better, I asked them for more commitment, we changed it around and got some fresh legs, they did well today.

"There were a lot of good points, we did some good things."
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership Result.

2009-03-23T13:50:00.000-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 23 March 2009 )

English Premier League football Result.

FT Portsmouth 2 - 1 Everton

FT Blackburn R. 1 - 1 West Ham U.

FT Fulham 2 - 0 Manchester United.

FT Stoke City. 1 - 0 Middlesbrough

FT West Bromwich A. 1 - 1 Bolton W.

FT Tottenham H. 1 - 0 Chelsea

FT Newcastle U. 1 - 3 Arsenal

FT Wigan Athletic 1 - 0 Hull City.

FT Manchester City. 1 - 0 Sunderland

FT Liverpool 5 - 0 Aston Villa

by livescore.

Benitez signs long-term Reds deal

2009-03-19T11:04:00.000-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 19 March 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Benitez signs long-term Reds deal
Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez has ended speculation over his future at Anfield by signing a new deal that will keep him at the club until 2014.

The 48-year-old put pen to paper after protracted negotiations which put a doubt over his tenure at the club.

But Benitez said: "My heart is with Liverpool, so I'm delighted to sign this new deal.

"I love the club, the fans and the city and with a club and supporters like this, I could never say no to staying."

Benitez has signed a five-year contract after a week in which he has led his team to two of his most impressive wins since taking over in 2004.

The Reds beat Real Madrid 4-0 in the second leg of their last-16 Champions League tie to earn a 5-0 on aggregate victory which put them into the quarter-finals of the competition.

They then went to Old Trafford and came back from a goal down to win 4-1 against arch-rivals Manchester United in the Premier League, reigniting hopes of a first league title for Liverpool since 1990.

Benitez added: "I always made clear I wanted to be here for a long time and when I complete my new contract it will mean I have spent over a decade in Liverpool.

"The club is greatly respected around the world due to its incredible history and tremendous heritage.

"It is my aim to uphold those values and help create a new chapter in our history.

"Throughout this process, I would like to thank the owners for their hard work in finalising the deal.

"All of us at the club want the same thing, which is to be successful by winning major trophies."

The rumours over Benitez's future reached a climax before the first leg of the tie against Real Madrid when some bookmakers stopped taking bets on him being at the club beyond the end of the week.

But the Spaniard insisted he was surprised by the speculation and that he was confident of staying as talks continued.

He is believed to have turned down a number of drafts of the deal in order to get his way on certain issues, with one understood to be the club's transfer policy, before reaching agreement.

Benitez has now signed against the continued backdrop of a strained relationship between co-owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett, while the club also recently announced chief executive Rick Parry was to leave the club at the end of the season.

That move increased the likelihood Benitez would commit his future to the club as the Spaniard was unhappy at Parry's slowness in completing transfer deals.

Hicks, who admitted to talks with Jurgen Klinsmann in November 2007 about taking over as Liverpool manager if Benitez left, said: "It is wonderful news that Rafa has made a long-term commitment to the football club.

"Since he became manager in 2004, he has been responsible for the great progress we have made.

"I know he will continue to build on his achievements as he has a tremendous hunger and desire to bring more success to the club - success our fans and everyone connected with the club deserves."

And Gillett added: "With Rafa continuing to manage the team, we can look forward to more great football and success on the pitch.

"He has special abilities and qualities which are admired here at the club and around the world.

"Coming after our excellent wins over Real Madrid and Manchester United, this gives us great momentum going into the final stages of the season."

Benitez has guided the Reds to victory in the Champions League final against AC Milan in 2005 and led Liverpool to victory over West Ham in the FA Cup final in 2006.

They again reached the Champions League final in 2007 but lost out 2-1 to AC Milan.

The Reds also recently came out as the number one team in European competition based on Uefa's co-efficient rankings system, which takes results over the past five years into account.
by bbcnews.

Sales give Spurs record profits

2009-03-19T11:01:00.000-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 19 March 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Sales give Spurs record profits
The sale of Dimitar Berbatov and Robbie Keane by Tottenham has helped the club post record pre-tax profits of £39.8m for the last six months of 2008.

Last summer Spurs made over £51m from the sale of Berbatov to Manchester United and Keane to Liverpool.

Spurs also sold six other players for significant fees during that period.

"During the 2008 summer transfer window gains were made on the sales of a number of registrations," said chairman Daniel Levy in a statement.

In what appears to be a reference to the sale of the strike duo Levy added: "It needs to be noted that the club did not make the player trading profits in a manner that was planned or welcomed as they arose, in the main, from the regrettable sale of certain key players."

The other players to leave the club were Pascal Chimbonda, Steed Malbranque, Teemu Tainio, Paul Robinson, Younes Kaboul and Anthony Gardner.

Keane and Chimbonda have both since rejoined the club and the next financial figures are expected to be balanced out by these deals and the additional signings of Jermain Defoe and Wilson Palacios.

The profits, meanwhile, should assist the club's proposed investment in a new training ground and stadium, named the Northumberland Development Project, with a full planning application due in "the next few months".

"We have benefitted from having a robust business that is well financed and has continued to be able to support investment in the first team, whilst progressing two major capital expenditure projects - the new training centre and the Northumberland Development Project."
by bbcnews.

Forest sign Everton keeper Turner

2009-03-19T10:56:00.000-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 19 March 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Forest sign Everton keeper Turner
Nottingham Forest have swooped to sign Everton goalkeeper Iain Turner on loan until the end of the season.

The 24-year-old is set to make his debut for the struggling Championship side when they face Wolves on Saturday.

"I'm looking forward to it," Turner told BBC Radio Nottingham. "I've been hoping to go out on loan all season.

"I'm here for seven games to show what I can do, I've been dying for the chance. Forest are a good team but the Championship is a funny league."

Turner joined Everton from Stirling Albion in 2003 but has made only six appearances for David Moyes' side.

He has had spells on loan with Chester City, Doncaster Rovers, Wycombe Wanderers, Crystal Palace and Sheffield Wednesday, but has not played a competitive match since May 2007.

Turner added: "I had an unbeaten spell at Palace and a good spell at Wednesday too, so I hope I can keep that run going.

"Most teams want an experienced keeper, someone who can talk to the rest of the team, so the more games you play I guess the bigger your influence is."

Forest boss Billy Davies was desperate to bolster his squad after Saturday's 5-0 humbling at Burnley, which left them in the relegation zone ahead of the visit of leaders Wolves.

"It's no secret that we've been looking for a goalkeeper to provide competition," said Davies, who publicly criticised Forest keeper Paul Smith at the weekend.

"Iain Turner fits the bill perfectly. He is a keeper with good pedigree and great potential and this situation helps us and Everton."
by bbcnews.

Delap looks to play into forties

2009-03-19T10:50:00.000-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 19 March 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Delap looks to play into forties
Stoke City midfielder Rory Delap has said he wants to continue his playing career beyond his 40th birthday.

Potters manager Tony Pulis has previously hailed the 32-year-old as one of the fittest players he has ever worked with.

Delap told BBC Radio Stoke: "I've always said that I'll keep going until I start making a fool of myself.

"Even if it's in the Conference, as long as I'm still enjoying it, I'll play until I'm 40. Why not 41?"

The Republic of Ireland international added: "I've got a little girl now, and my wife's always saying that it would be nice if she could remember me playing. It's just those little things that make you want to carry on."

Delap began his career with Carlisle United, making his senior debut for the Cumbrians in 1996.

He joined Derby County for £200,000 in 1998, but said he would like to return to Brunton Park before he retires.

"Hopefully they'll be up at the top of the leagues by then, but I've got no qualms about dropping into the lower divisions," he added.

After spending three years with Derby, Delap joined Southampton for £4m in July 2001 before joining Sunderland five years later.

Delap left the Black Cats to join Stoke on a free transfer in October 2006 and has shot to prominence this season because of his trademark long throw-ins.
by bbcnews.

English Premier League football News

Ferdinand eyes Sunderland return
Sunderland defender Anton Ferdinand admits that his recent injury problems could not have come at a worse time.

He has missed the last two Premier League games with a hamstring injury but hopes to be fit for Sunday's trip to Eastlands to face Manchester City.

"It's been very frustrating," Ferdinand told BBC Radio Newcastle. "We find ourselves in a sticky situation again.

"But that's what makes the Premier League so good this year. And we've got to make sure that we stay strong."

Sunderland currently sit 14th in the table and, although just three points clear of the relegation zone, Ferdinand is optimistic.

"We have to deal with the situation we're in at the moment," he said.

"Four points from the last two games against Spurs and Wigan would have been a great return, but that wasn't the case.

"Now we've got to look forward at what's next in line and that's two massive away games at Manchester City and West Ham."

If Ferdinand, 24, is fit, the game against West Ham on 4 April will be his first return to Upton Park since signing for Sunderland in August.

He was on the losing side when the Hammers came to the Stadium of Light in November - and won 1-0.
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership Result.

2009-03-15T11:43:00.000-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 15 March 2009 )

English Premier League football Result.

Manchester United 1 - 4 Liverpool

Arsenal 4 - 0 Blackburn R.

Bolton W. 1 - 3 Fulham

Everton 3 - 1 Stoke City

Hull City 1 - 1 Newcastle U.

Middlesbrough 1 - 1 Portsmouth

Sunderland 1 - 2 Wigan Athletic

Chelsea 1 - 0 Manchester City

Aston Villa 1 - 2 Tottenham H.

West Ham U. 0 - 0 West Bromwich A.

by livescore

Man City play down link to Villa

2009-03-13T05:35:00.000-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 13 March 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Man City play down link to Villa
Manchester City have played down reports linking them with a move for Valencia striker David Villa.

The Spanish club have revealed that talks were held over a possible move but City have said that they took place late last year, and no bid was made.

"That's old news," City boss Hughes told BBC Radio 5 Live. "I think there was a meeting just before Christmas.

"We talked with Valencia about the price for a certain player, were told it and then walked away very quickly."

He added: "There was interest around Christmas time but we haven't revisited it since."

Valencia are in financial trouble and have conceded they may have to sell Villa to ease their concerns.

The 27-year-old was a key member of the Spain squad that triumphed at Euro 2008 and is Valencia's most valuable asset.

Vice-president Fernando Gomez told Spanish radio station Cadena Ser that the player would cost a "significant amount".

When Gomez was asked if Valencia chiefs had met with two representatives from Manchester City regarding the sale of Villa, he added: "Yes, it's true but they didn't make us any offer.

"The president Vicente Soriano asked for a significant amount and they didn't agree," he said.

No price tag was revealed but Gomez did confirm that despite Valencia's precarious financial predicament, Villa and fellow Spain star David Silva would not be allowed to go for a reduced price.

"I think they are two very important players, with a lot of quality and if we sell them, we are not going to sell them on the cheap," stated Gomez.

"I would like them both to stay but we cannot discard anything and any of them [the players] could leave at the end of the season."

The skilful Villa has been a target for other Premier League clubs, with Liverpool and Chelsea both linked to bids in recent seasons.

In January, Manchester City failed in a bid to take AC Milan's Brazilian playmaker Kaka to Eastlands and also recently denied rumours linking them to Barcelona forward Lionel Messi.
by bbcnews.

Police offer apology to Anichebe

2009-03-13T05:32:00.000-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 13 March 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Police offer apology to Anichebe
Cheshire Police have apologised to Premier League striker Victor Anichebe after officers challenged him as he looked in a jeweller's shop window.

The Everton player was window-shopping with a friend in Knutsford, Cheshire, when officers confronted the pair, eventually handcuffing his friend.

Police said they were acting after a spate of robberies but admitted it was a "less than proportionate reaction".

Mr Anichebe, 20, said the incident was "embarrassing and totally humiliating".

He said in a statement: "Whilst I do fully understand Cheshire Police's desire to tackle the problem of robberies on jewellery shops in the Knutsford area, I remain deeply upset and very angry about the treatment which was meted out to myself and a friend yesterday [Wednesday].

"It was not only totally ridiculous but also highly embarrassing and totally humiliating.

"Simply because we stood our ground and insisted that we had done absolutely nothing wrong, they decided to place my friend in handcuffs.

"I am currently having to use crutches to walk as I recently underwent surgery on a knee injury and - astonishingly - one of the officers even tried to grab the crutches in order to prevent me from 'escaping'."

He added: "After what seemed like an eternity the police officers seemed to realise that they had made a mistake, acknowledging that I was a footballer with a Premiership club and not someone who was preparing to commit a crime.

"At the time, I asked the officers if they would have taken the action they did had I been white rather than black."

'Acting suspiciously'

A police spokesman said: "It is only right and proper that the police act expeditiously in protecting vulnerable premises such as jewellery shops.

"We seek in all cases to ask for co-operation from the public in respect of not only reporting suspicious activity in or around such areas, but also their co-operation if an officer feels it is necessary and appropriate to make inquiries into such matters."

He added: "Having now reviewed in detail what occurred between the officers and the two men whom they believed to have been acting suspiciously, it is now apparent that, while the situation was heated, the actions of the police officer in applying handcuffs to one of the men was less than a proportionate reaction to the requirements of the situation.

"The officer has been advised regarding this, and an offer of apology extended to the two men."

Responding to Mr Anichebe's comments about race, the police spokesman added: "The robust response to this incident was influenced by a history of violent robberies that have recently occurred at jewellery shops across Cheshire and was most certainly not related to race.

"Cheshire Police has publically apologised to Mr Anichebe and his friend about the treatment they received from officers involved, and we will be writing to Mr Anichebe's Football Club reiterating this apology.

"We can confirm we will be pleased to personally meet with Mr Anichebe to resolve any further concerns he may have."
by bbcnews.

Wigan sign Korean midfielder Cho

2009-03-13T05:29:00.000-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 13 March 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Wigan sign Korean midfielder Cho
Wigan are ready to thrust midfielder Cho Won-Hee straight into first-team action after signing the South Korea international on a free transfer.

The 25-year-old, who was unattached, impressed during a trial last month and has signed for two-and-a-half years.

"He can make a significant impact in the Premier League. He has a terrific attitude," said Wigan boss Steve Bruce.

"I could tell straight away that he was a good player. He is fast, strong and determined."

Cho is expected to be available for Saturday's game at Sunderland, though Wigan are waiting for a confirmation letter from the South Korean football association.

He had been playing for Suwon Blue Wings in South Korea's K-League but left to pursue a career in Europe and had a trial with French league club Monaco.
by bbcnews.

Wenger upbeat as big names return

2009-03-09T02:27:00.000-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 09 March 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Wenger upbeat as big names return
Arsene Wenger believes the return of Eduardo and several other big-name stars can prove "decisive" for Arsenal.

The in-form Gunners are through to the FA Cup quarter-finals and still in the running for Champions League glory.

"We are going into the final sprint. It is important to keep all our targets alive," said Arsenal manager Wenger.

"We know every game demands a big performance because we cannot slip up. Slowly, we have all of our players coming back and that can be decisive."

Arsenal have endured an indifferent season, finding themselves out of the top four in the Premier League as Manchester United took a firm grip on the title race.

The London club were well adrift of Champions League qualification places at one stage.

But the gap to fourth-placed Aston Villa is down to only three points and the future is starting to look a lot rosier for the Gunners, who are now unbeaten in 17 games.

After defeating Burnley 3-0 on Sunday to book a last-eight meeting with Hull in the FA Cup, Arsenal face Roma in the Champions League on Wednesday, holding a 1-0 lead from the first leg at the Emirates.

The especially pleasing thing for Wenger is that he will soon have the likes of Cesc Fabregas and Tomas Rosicky back from injury to boost his side's chances of finishng the season with a trophy.

England winger Theo Walcott made his return in the win over Burnley following four months out with a shoulder problem.

But the headlines went to Eduardo, whose career was under serious threat following a horrific leg break just over a year ago.

Captaining the side, the Croatian striker, 26, scored with a stunning volley to put Arsenal 2-0 up, hitting Alex Song's cross into the top corner of the net with the outside of his left foot.

"It looked like a bit of a 'beach' goal - and he meant it, he sliced the ball," insisted a delighted Wenger.

"Eduardo is a surprising finisher and an intelligent player. He has short back lift and understands what to do very quickly.

"I have never seen him do that before, his goal was instinct and shows you that finishing is all about what you do in a fraction of a second."

Wenger also heaped praise on Eduardo for the way he has come back from such a career-threatening injury.
"I didn't expect him to come back like that, it's a tribute to his personality," stated the Frenchman.

"He's never complained and that is a big example in our world."

Burnley boss Owen Coyle, meanwhile, was pragmatic about being beaten by the better side and looked ahead to the club's targets for the end of the season - notably, promotion from the Championship.

"I wanted the team to be positive," he said. "People pay good money to watch football and we have an obligation to send out our teams to attack.

"We have shown all season that we have good players. We now have 10 cup finals to get promotion - if we can play to our level, then we can do well.

"If we have got anything about ourselves, we want to be in the Premier League."
by bbcnews.

Man Utd wait on Ferdinand injury

2009-03-09T02:24:00.000-07:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 09 March 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Man Utd wait on Ferdinand injury
Manchester United are waiting to discover whether defender Rio Ferdinand will be fit for Wednesday's Champions League return leg against Inter Milan.

The England centre-back, 30, was placed in a plastic boot to protect his ankle after he was taken off at half-time in Saturday's FA Cup tie against Fulham.

"There's a small swelling to his ankle - we'll assess it on Sunday," United assistant Mike Phelan told BBC 5 Live.

"I'm not a medical person, so I don't know if he'll be fit for Wednesday."

Phelan added: "Jonny Evans is more than a substitute for Rio if he doesn't make it."

Old Trafford boss Sir Alex Ferguson, who watched his side keep their quintuple hopes alive with a 4-0 victory over Fulham in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup, had his fingers crossed for the England international.

"Ferdinand is a bit of a concern," Ferguson said. "I hope he is all right for Wednesday because he is so important to us."

Defender John O'Shea also came off during the match, with a hamstring injury.

Meanwhile, Inter Milan have just two fit centre-backs after losing Marco Materazzi and Nicolas Burdisso to injury in the first half of their 2-0 victory over Genoa.

Ahead of the game in Manchester, Inter coach Jose Mourinho said: "Christian Chivu, Walter Samuel, Materazzi and Burdisso are out."

The first-leg tie finished 0-0 in the San Siro last month.
by bbcnews.

Defoe accused of driving offences

2009-03-07T03:04:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 07 March 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Defoe accused of driving offences
Tottenham and England footballer Jermaine Defoe has denied a series of motoring offences, including letting someone use his car without insurance.

Mr Defoe, 26, from Cuffley, Hertfordshire, did not attend a hearing in Southend when it was decided the case would be sent for trial.

Another man, Ryan Edgar, 23, of east London, also denied charges which include driving without insurance.

The trial will take place before magistrates in Southend on 1 May.

Mr Defoe is charged with permitting the use of a motor vehicle without insurance, aiding and abetting the driving of a motor vehicle not in accordance with a licence, and that the vehicle was potentially dangerous because of the tinted windows.

Mr Edgar, of Plaistow, who also did not attend the hearing, is charged with using a motor vehicle without insurance, driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence and using a vehicle in a condition likely to cause danger.
by bbcnews.

Wenger demands tackling crackdown

2009-03-07T03:00:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 07 March 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Wenger demands tackling crackdown
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has urged the Football Association to hand out longer suspensions for players guilty of dangerous tackling.

Wenger called Newcastle midfield man Kevin Nolan's recent tackle on Everton striker Victor Anichebe, which ended his season, as "horrendous."

And he said: "They [FA] could create a special committee to analyse if a three-game suspension is enough or not.

"I feel that 10 matches is not enough for some of the tackles we have seen."

West Ham's 1-0 win at Wigan was also marred by a succession of wild challenges and red cards for Carlton Cole and Lee Cattermole.

Wenger was incensed by the challenge made on Abou Diaby by Sunderland's Dan Smith in May 2006, which resulted in the midfielder suffering a fracture and dislocation of his ankle.

Such was the Frenchman's anger that Arsenal considered taking legal action.

"If you tackle a player, anybody in the street like that, you go to jail," he said.

Last year, Martin Taylor's challenge on Eduardo, which resulted in a leg break for the Croatian also prompted an angry response from Wenger.

The Birmingham defender later apologised and insisted the challenge was accidental.

Wenger added: "I have seen some horrible tackles this season and I don't think the punishment is sufficient. Kevin Nolan's tackle on Victor Anichebe the other week was horrendous.

"An accident can happen when two people go for the ball but it is very rare. What I see is that guys go into the tackle to hurt the player. There is not sufficient punishment.

"Maybe we need to be stronger with our own players but sometimes you see the players make horrendous tackles and then say to the referee, 'What's wrong there?' You think, 'my friend, touch your head because you have completely lost touch with reality'. It is unbelievable but they know what they have done.

"It concerns me when I see someone jumping in like a mad guy as we have some players who weigh 90 kilos and can run the 100 metres in 11 seconds. If they jump in they completely destroy an opponent."

The Arsenal boss used Manchester United's Cristiano Ronaldo as an example, adding: "Sometimes I feel Manchester United get too much protection and sometimes they don't get enough and Ronaldo is a specific example of that.

"Sometimes his arrogance is provocative - and his class as well. But when a player is not protected it's not right. When there is a bad tackle you have to be punished and get sent off the pitch."

Everton boss David Moyes gave Wenger's suggestion support as he said: "Certain things need to be looked closer at. I have not been happy for a while with some of the FA decisions and the people making those decisions.

"Maybe a panel is needed, or a group of people, who can look at certain things. Certainly we want to wipe out bad challenges like the one that has ended Victor Anichebe's season. We should be looking into such serious challenges, it did a lot of damage."

And Spurs boss Harry Redknapp added: "Maybe we should have a panel looking at each sending-off. The Carlton Cole sending off was diabolical, the kid has put his foot up to pull a ball down and a player got across him.

"How can that be a second yellow card and a sending-off? There is nothing malicious about that, he didn't even know the player was coming. People have to look at that and say it's a crazy sending-off and should be rescinded.

"Other tackles, when people are going over the top of the ball and are violent, maybe we could do with more than three matches for that type of tackle."
by bbcnews.

Moyes and Jagielka scoop awards

2009-03-07T02:55:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 07 March 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Moyes and Jagielka scoop awards
Everton's David Moyes and Phil Jagielka have won the Barclays Premier League Manager and Player of the Month awards.

Boss Moyes guided the Toffees to league wins at home to Bolton and West Brom and a draw at Newcastle in February.

Defender Jagielka helped Everton keep clean sheets in all three fixtures, and made his first England start in the 2-0 friendly defeat in Spain last month.

Moyes has now won the managers' award five times, while it is the first time Jagielka has been honoured.

Everton beat Bolton 3-0 and West Brom 2-0 either side of the goalless draw on Tyneside.

They also progressed in the FA Cup in February with a replay victory over Merseyside rivals Liverpool, followed by a fifth round win over Aston Villa.

Moyes said he was eyeing silverware to add to his award, with Everton facing Middlesbrough in the FA Cup quarter-finals at Goodison Park on Sunday.

"Of course I am pleased with the recognition. But it is not for me, it is the players who have done their jobs. It is for the whole club," he said.

"What I want is a trophy for the whole club to enjoy now, not just for me. It is hard to drag this award away from Sir Alex Ferguson these days, so that is something to be proud of."
by bbcnews

Ferreira to miss Chelsea run-in

2009-03-07T02:52:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 07 March 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Ferreira to miss Chelsea run-in
Chelsea defender Paulo Ferreira has been ruled out of action for the rest of the season with an anterior cruciate ligament injury.

The Portugal international is the third Chelsea player to suffer the knee problem this season, with Joe Cole and Michael Essien also affected.

Ferreira, 30, has only been on the fringes of the first team this term, starting just one Premier League game.

He has appeared as substitute in a further six matches.
by bbcnews

Footballer Ashley Cole arrested

2009-03-05T10:14:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 05 March 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Footballer Ashley Cole arrested
Chelsea and England footballer Ashley Cole has been arrested on suspicion of being drunk and disorderly.

Mr Cole was held after swearing at police officers outside west London's The Collection bar and restaurant, BBC crime reporter Ben Ando said.

Police said a 28-year-old man was held in Brompton Road, South Kensington, at about 0215 GMT.

He was taken to a police station and given an £80 fixed penalty notice and released at about 0530 GMT on Thursday.

No further action will be taken, a Metropolitan Police spokesman said.

Our correspondent said: "Cole was held after swearing repeatedly at police and refusing to calm down after emerging from The Collection in South Kensington at around 2am."

The nightclub is about 1.3 miles (2km) from Chelsea's Stamford Bridge stadium.

Nightclub manager Burim Maraj said he was aware of the incident but added: "We have very little information at this stage - I hope to be fully informed this afternoon."

A spokesman for Chelsea FC declined to comment on the incident.

Prior to his arrest, Cole had joined Chelsea's first team squad and more than 300 charity workers, celebrities and supporters at a fundraising event for two childrens' charities.

His wife Cheryl, singer with Girls Aloud, is currently climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa for Comic Relief.
by bbcnews

Mascherano wants Reds consistency

2009-03-05T10:09:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 05 March 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Mascherano wants Reds consistency
Argentine midfielder Javier Mascherano says Liverpool need to improve their form before they can think of a Premier League title challenge this season.

The Reds are seven points behind leaders Manchester United.

"We are not too close to Manchester United but we have to still fight to see what happens," said Mascherano.

"Its important we don't look at the league classification. We need to concentrate and try to win games and see what happens."

Liverpool beat Sunderland 2-0 at Anfield on Tuesday with the 24-year-old filling in at right-back.

But the 24-year-old says he will play in any position as long as it is in the best interest of the squad.

"I try to think about the team," added Masherano. "If the team need me in that position I will try to do my best.

"Where I play the best is in the centre of midfield, but you never know if we are going to have injuries to players like Alvaro Arbeloa and Phillipe Degan.

"We don't have any players who can play on the right of defence, so I don't have any problems playing there."
by bbcnews

Tiredness not a problem - O'Neill : English Premier League football News

2009-03-05T10:02:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 05 March 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Tiredness not a problem - O'Neill
Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill is brushing off critics who claim his side are too weary to sustain a challenge for a Champions League spot.

Villa are three points ahead of fifth-placed Arsenal with 10 Premier League games remaining following Wednesday's 2-0 defeat by Manchester City.

"The minute you lose a game everybody thinks you're tired," O'Neill said.

"Then we get criticised when we rested some players and didn't take them to Russia," he told BBC WM.

"We've got 10 games to go, we've got an exciting end to the season and that in itself should reinvigorate you."

O'Neill is taking the squad away for a brief break in Dubai ahead of their next game at home to Tottenham on Sunday 15 March.

"We will take a couple of days because we won't have a game for the first weekend in I don't know how long," O'Neill noted.

"We are still in control of our own destiny, we can control our training, we can control the rest and we can control each of those things to a certain extent.

"So it's up to us. We'll get ourselves reinvigorated and we will go for it."

Villa are without a win in six games since the 2-0 victory at Blackburn on 7 February.

In that time they have gone out of the FA Cup to Everton, and lost over two legs to CSKA Moscow in the last 32 of the Uefa Cup.

Despite resting seven first-team regulars for the trip to Moscow, O'Neill's side have taken only one point from their next two league fixtures against Stoke and Manchester City.
by bbcnews

Davenport enjoys Sunderland life-English Premier League football News

2009-03-05T09:59:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 05 March 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Davenport enjoys Sunderland life
Sunderland defender Calum Davenport has said he is happy with life on Wearside after joining the club on loan from West Ham United in January.

The 26-year-old is yet to feature for Ricky Sbragia's side, but the former Coventry centre-back believes this has helped him to settle in the North East.

"I've really enjoyed the last few weeks, not playing has helped me settle," he told BBC Radio Newcastle.

"It always helps when you know a few faces coming into a new place."

Davenport will remain with Sunderland until the end of the season, having had a loan spell with Watford in January.

Meanwhile Saturday's visit of Tottenham Hotspur presents several of the current Sunderland squad, including Davenport, with an opportunity to reacquaint themselves with some familiar faces.

Andy Reid, Teemu Tainio, Steed Malbranque, Marton Fulop and Davenport have all had spells at White Hart Lane, while current Tottenham players Ben Alnwick and Pascal Chimbonda count Sunderland among their former clubs.

"It's always nice to see old faces, but when you're a professional you take every game as it comes, it's another game," said Davenport.

"It's a home game and you're more interested in going there and getting a result."
by bbcnews

Fa Barclaycard Premiership Result.

2009-03-05T09:52:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 04 March 2009 )

English Premier League football Result.

Manchester City 2 - 0 Aston Villa

Newcastle United 1 - 2 Manchester United

Stoke City 2 - 0 Bolton W.

Wigan Athletic 0 - 1 West Ham U.

Blackburn R. 0 - 0 Everton

Fulham 0 - 1 Hull City

Tottenham H. 4 - 0 Middlesbrough

by livescore

Fa Barclaycard Premiership Result.

2009-03-04T04:00:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 03 March 2009 )

English Premier League football Result.

Portsmouth 0 - 1 Chelsea

West Bromwich A. 1 - 3 Arsenal

Liverpool 2 - 0 Sunderland

by livescore

Man Utd 0-0 Tottenham (aet)

2009-03-01T15:09:00.000-08:00

( 01 March 2009 )

English Premier League football News

The Carling Cup final. : Man Utd 0-0 Tottenham (aet)

Manchester United completed phase two of their bid to secure an historic haul of five major trophies in a season as they beat Spurs on penalties in the Carling Cup final.

United, with the Club World Cup already won, emerged victorious from another shoot-out after an encounter low on quality finished goalless after extra-time.

Goalkeeper Ben Foster, given a Wembley opportunity as manager Sir Alex Ferguson rested Edwin van der Sar, was United's hero with a stunning save from Aaron Lennon in normal time.

Foster distinguished himself with a superb save from Jamie O'Hara's spot-kick, and when substitute David Bentley missed, Spurs' fate was sealed as Anderson confirmed United's victory.

Cristiano Ronaldo struck an upright seconds from the end of normal time as both defences dominated a final in which clear-cut opportunities were at a premium.

Ryan Giggs, Carlos Tevez, Ronaldo and Anderson were successful for United from the spot in the shoot-out, but only Vedran Corluka scored for Spurs.

Keeper Foster, 25, whose fledgling career has been dogged by injury, will have hugely impressed watching England coach Fabio Capello - who is not exactly blessed with quality keepers as he plans for next year's World Cup.

There was to be no repeat of Spurs' win against Chelsea in last year's final, with boss Harry Redknapp also denied another Wembley win after lifting the FA Cup with Portsmouth last season

It capped an almost perfect weekend for United, with their position at the top of the Premier League strengthened after Liverpool's defeat at Middlesbrough and another piece of silverware on its way to Old Trafford.

Ferguson will now turn his attention back to winning the title once more and progressing in the Champions League and FA Cup.

This was not United at their vintage best, with too much below-par passing, but once again they showed that winning mentality when it mattered and when the pressure was at its most intense.

Ferguson kept to his promise to maintain faith with youngsters Darron Gibson, Danny Welbeck and Jonny Evans - but his hopes of calling on Wayne Rooney were dashed after the England striker was ruled out by a virus.

Spurs counterpart Redknapp was spared a selection dilemma when Jonathan Woodgate was ruled out by an Achilles tendon injury, allowing Michael Dawson to partner Ledley King in defence.

Gibson almost made a stunning early impact with a rising 25-yard drive that sailed just over the angle of post and bar with Heurelho Gomes beaten.

Keeper Gomes was called into action again after 15 minutes when he dived low at the near post to turn away Nani's effort as United dominated the opening skirmishes.

Aaron Lennon's pace offered Spurs plenty of hope, and it needed a timely intervention from Rio Ferdinand to clear his cross after Corluka played him in with a pass inside Patrice Evra.

In an enterprising opening, Ferdinand's dipping volley landed just over the bar with Gomes again struggling to make the save.

As the early life went out of the final, Spurs were able to establish a foothold and create a series of promising openings down the flanks, only to fail to find the decisive final ball.

Spurs had successfully kept Ronaldo at arm's length, while youngster Welbeck was having a tough time making an impact in the face of the physical presence of Dawson and King.

Indeed, it only took Ferguson only 10 minutes after the break to decide to remove Welbeck and introduce Anderson into midfield.

And United came within inches of breaking the deadlock on the hour when Tevez was just off target as he tried to divert Evans' shot past Gomes.

Ronaldo's frustration was plain to see when he was booked for diving by referee Chris Foy in the 66th minute as he tumbled in a collision with Spurs captain King just inside the area - a decision that was a desperately close call.

Foster justified his inclusion with a stunning save from Lennon after 70 minutes after Benoit Assou-Ekotto's cross found him in space 12 yards out.

The United keeper's opposite number Gomes had been well protected, but he was called in to action to collect a shot from Anderson at the second attempt.

John O'Shea, who had been fortunate to escape a second yellow card for a tackle on Luka Modric that went unpunished, was replaced by Nemanja Vidic as Ferguson stiffened up United's central defence.

Ronaldo almost won the cup for United in the dying seconds of stoppage time when he cut inside and lashed in a shot that bounced off the upright with Nani unable to turn in the rebound.

It meant extra time - and the inevitable introduction of Ryan Giggs for the tiring Gibson.

Lennon had been at the heart of most of Spurs' best moments, but he had run himself to a standstill and it was no surprise when he was replaced by Bentley 10 minutes into extra-time.

As fatigue sent in among both sets of players, it was going to take a mistake or a moment of inspiration to decide the destiny of the cup in the closing stages. Modric almost provided it after 115 minutes with a run into the box that ended with Foster saving well with his legs from Darren Bent.

And Evra almost did likewise at the other end with a shot that was just over the top as Gomes could only look on.

It was the last meaningful action as a final that was high on endeavour but low on moments of genuine quality went to penalties.

Giggs gave United the perfect start in the shoot-out, and Foster set up the win with a fine save from O'Hara's spot-kick.

Tevez and Corluka exchanged successful penalties, but Bentley sent his wide after Ronaldo had slotted his away.

Anderson stepped forward to complete the formalities and United had achieved the second part of their pursuit of the five major trophies on offer to them this season.

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

Man Utd: Foster, O'Shea (Vidic 76), Evans, Ferdinand, Evra, Ronaldo, Scholes, Gibson (Giggs 91), Nani, Tevez, Welbeck (Anderson 56).
Subs Not Used: Kuszczak, Park, Possebon, Eckersley.

Booked: O'Shea, Ronaldo, Scholes.

Tottenham: Gomes, Corluka, Dawson, King, Assou-Ekotto, Lennon (Bentley 102), Jenas (Bale 98), Zokora, Modric, Bent, Pavlyuchenko (O'Hara 65).
Subs Not Used: Alnwick, Huddlestone, Gunter, Taarabt.

Att: 88,217.

Ref: Chris Foy (Merseyside).

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

Player Rater man of the match: Tottenham's Aaron Lennon on 7.36 (on 120 minutes).
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership Result.

2009-03-01T15:01:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 01 March 2009 )

English Premier League football Result.

Hull City 1 - 2 Blackburn Rover

West Ham U. 1 - 0 Manchester City

Bolton W. 1 - 0 Newcastle U.

Aston Villa 2 - 2 Stoke City

by livescore.

England - the Carling Cup final.

Manchester U. * 0 - 0 Tottenham H. *(Manchester U. Winner PK.4-1)

Fa Barclaycard Premiership Result.

2009-02-28T10:05:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 28 February 2009 )

English Premier League football Result.

Everton 2 - 0 West Bromwich A

Arsenal 0 - 0 Fulham

Chelsea 2 - 1 Wigan Athletic

Middlesbrough 2 - 0 Liverpool

by livescore.

Parry to leave post at Liverpool-English Premier League football News

2009-02-27T15:02:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 27 February 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Parry to leave post at Liverpool
Rick Parry will leave his post as Liverpool chief executive at the end of the season after 12 years at the club.

The relationship between Parry, manager Rafael Benitez and American co-owner Tom Hicks has been strained and Hicks asked him to resign last April.

Parry branded the request as "offensive" but he has now decided the time is right to leave Anfield.

The departure of Parry is likely to take Benitez a step closer to finally signing a new deal.

BBC Sport understands the decision is the result of "mature" talks held over the past two weeks and the acceptance that Parry and Hicks can no longer work together.

In November Parry pledged his loyalty to the club after he was linked with the chief executive's post as part of the Football Association's 2018 World Cup bid.

He decided to remain at Anfield, despite being the top contender from a five-man shortlist for the job

Liverpool have been locked in a series of boardroom wrangles with Benitez looking to gain greater control over transfers in his protracted talks over a new contract and co-owners Hicks and George Gillett falling out.

Benitez insisted he had not won a power battle with Parry and pledged to work closely with him until the end of the season.

He said: "We have three months now of very, very important games so we must concentrate on that. We must be positive, work together and do what is best for the club.

"Our relationship has been good, professional. In terms of the personal relationship it has been good, because we both want the best for the club.

"I do not see the situation as a power battle. The owners have decided to do this, now we both have to work together. I am sure that Rick, myself and the owners will do this until the end of the season.

Parry said he had been proud to be part of the club for over a decade.

"I have had 12 very exciting years at Liverpool and am extremely proud of what has been achieved by the club over that period," he said.

"The 1-0 victory in Madrid [on Wednesday] was a wonderful reminder of the many high points we have experienced and adds to the moments that make Liverpool and its magnificent fans so special.

"It has been a privilege to serve the club and as a lifelong supporter I wish the owners, Rafa, the players and the wonderful staff all the very best for the future.

"I will be leaving at the end of the season knowing that the club remains strong and with a set of supporters who deserve success in all that Liverpool does."

Liverpool co-chairman Hicks paid tribute to Parry's work at Anfield: "Rick's commitment to Liverpool Football Club is epitomised by his desire to ensure that this transitional period is managed efficiently and we are grateful to him for his help.

"He will always remain a friend of the football club," he added.

Fellow co-chairman Gillett added: "I would like to thank Rick for his significant service to the club and the assistance he has given us since we joined Liverpool. He has been integral to the club's success over the past decade and leaves with our best wishes for the future."

Former Liverpool defender Alan Kennedy backed Parry's decision to step down and believed there had been problems between Parry and Benitez.

"I don't think it's that big a shock, something had to give, something had to happen and unfortunately Rick is going to move on," Kennedy told BBC Radio 5 Live.

"It is something that had to be done, whether it was Gillett and Hicks forcing the issue or Rafa Benitez, we don't know.

"When you look at the transfer system, Rafa has wanted certain players to come to the club and it just hasn't happened.

"Questions were asked over Robbie Keane, did the manager buy the player or did the chief executive? It's one of those situations, you have to have something between you and clearly this hasn't happened."

Kennedy added that Parry's decision to leave the club could pave the way for Benitez to commit his future to Anfield.

"Rafa has stalled on his contract which is a sign he wasn't happy with certain situations at the club," added Kennedy.

"Everything has to come to a head and the sooner something happened the better it is for the club.

"I think Rafa will now look upon his situation with Gillett and Hicks and say 'I'm signing the contract as simple as that'."
by bbcnews.

Man Utd hit by Rafael injury blow-English Premier League football News

2009-02-27T14:59:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 27 February 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Man Utd hit by Rafael injury blow
Manchester United full-back Rafael has been ruled out for up to a month with a fractured ankle.

The 18-year-old Brazilian, who will now miss Sunday's Carling Cup final, picked up the injury in last week's 2-1 win over Blackburn.

"He's out for a month with a hairline fracture of his ankle," United boss Sir Alex Ferguson told the club website.

"It's a blow because he's been playing in all the cup games and he's done so well. He deserves to be in the final."

Rafael moved to Old Trafford in 2008 and made his first competitive appearance for United against Newcastle on the first day of the Premier League season.
by bbcnews.

Cisse's Sunderland move in danger-English Premier League football News

2009-02-27T14:54:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 27 February 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Cisse's Sunderland move in danger
Djibril Cisse's proposed move to Sunderland could be wrecked by the global credit crisis after his price tag increased by up to £3m.

The 27-year-old is on a season-long loan at the Stadium of Light from Marseille, with a view to a permanent transfer in the summer.

But the transfer is in doubt because of sterling's weakness against the Euro.

The Black Cats are reluctant to commit to a deal for the French striker until they are safe from the drop.

"Djibril's deal was done correctly in that the decision will be made at the end of the season," Sunderland chairman Niall Quinn told the Sunderland Echo. "I'm not saying we won't do it, I'm saying it has to be looked at."

However, goalkeeper Marton Fulop has signed a new three-and-a-half-year deal which will keep him at the Stadium of Light until the summer of 2012.

The Hungary international has started 20 of Sunderland's previous 22 matches and is currently keeping out record £9m signing Craig Gordon.

"Marton has been excellent and this is reward for him," said Black Cats boss Ricky Sbragia.

"You need two top-class keepers and we think we have got that. They will push each other to higher levels."

Sunderland are 11th in the Premier League table, eight points clear of the relegation zone.

But chairman Quinn will not address Cisse's deal until the end of the season.

"I can't commit to him until we are safe - that's economically rather than football-wise," he said.

"I couldn't give so much of our revenue to Marseille for a starter if we were a Championship club. It would be bad practice. We need to know where we are going before we make a decision.

"In the current financial climate sterling is weak against the Euro which has resulted in the transfer, upon which Sunderland have first refusal, significantly more expensive.

"The thing to bear in mind is that sterling has fallen apart since we made the deal, and he's become about £2m to £3m dearer since we first agreed the deal."

Cisse is Sunderland's leading scorer this season with 10 goals and Quinn admitted the move is still one that appeals to the club.

"He loves it here and he would love to have his future here - we take that as a very good sign," he said.

"If Ricky wants him and we feel good about the deal, then I'm sure we will find a way to do it."
by bbcnews.

Sorensen relishing Villa return-English Premier League football News

2009-02-26T10:31:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 00 January 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Sorensen relishing Villa return
Goalkeeper Thomas Sorensen has said he will enjoy playing against his former club Aston Villa, but only if Stoke get their first away win of the season.

Sorensen, who joined the Potters from Villa in July, will make his first return to Villa Park on Sunday.

He told BBC Radio Stoke: "I had five great years there and the way it ended had nothing to do with the fans of the club, it just happened.

"I'm delighted to be at Stoke now and I'm going there to win the game."

The Danish international made 158 appearances for Villa after joining the club from Sunderland in August 2003.

"It's a place that I love to play, if the fans appreciate what I did there then I'll get some applause, if not then it doesn't matter," said Sorensen.

"They're playing well and we know their threats. We need to deal with that and we'll be ready for them on Sunday."

The Potters, who have not completed a double over any team in the Premier League this season, beat Villa 3-2 at the Britannia Stadium in August with an injury-time winner from Mamady Sidibe.

by bbcnews.

Henderson to extend Coventry loan-English Premier League football News

2009-02-26T10:25:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 26 February 2009 )

English Premier League football News

Henderson to extend Coventry loan

Coventry City winger Jordan Henderson is hoping to extend his loan stay at the Ricoh until the end of the season.

The original 28-day loan deal for the Sunderland teenager expires on Wednesday (25 February).
"I'm extending my contract here until the end of the season so hopefully we can get that sorted soon," Henderson told BBC Coventry & Warwickshire.

"I'm over the moon playing first-team football for Coventry City who are flying at the minute"

The 18-year-old midfielder has impressed since arriving from the north-east, making four starts and coming on as a substitute in Saturday's 1-0 win over Birmingham.

Henderson, who made his Sunderland debut earlier this season, has only featured twice for the Premier League outfit. But he has slotted in nicely with the Sky Blues, having helped them to successive home local derby victories over Wolverhampton Wanderers and Birmingham City.

"The manager's a different class," he said. "And they have a good chairman.

"The lads are brilliant. There's a great team spirit amongst the group and I'm loving every minute."

Henderson will next get a chance to line-up for the Sky Blues in their FA Cup fifth round replay with Blackburn at the Ricoh on Tuesday night.
by bbcnews.

Pennant backs Hart for Portsmouth-English Premiership football News

2009-02-26T10:20:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 26 February 2009 )

English Premiership football News

Pennant backs Hart for Portsmouth

Portsmouth winger Jermaine Pennant says caretaker manager Paul Hart should be given the opportunity to take on the manager's role on a permanent basis.

The Fratton Park side are unbeaten since Hart and assistant Brian Kidd took over two weeks ago.

Pennant told BBC Radio Solent: "You can see the difference in the team, so why not keep him? If it is not broke, then do not fix it.

"Let it roll, if the players play for him, why not?"
by bbcnews.

2009-02-26T10:18:00.000-08:00

FA BARCLAYCARD PREMIERSHIP Next Time Comming Soon....

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

2009-01-20T01:20:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 20 January 2009 )

English Premiership football News

Kaka rejects Manchester City move

Kaka joined AC Milan from Brazilian side Sao Paulo in 2003

AC Milan playmaker Kaka has turned down a lucrative move to Manchester City.

"Kaka is staying at Milan," said a club spokesman, after team owner Silvio Berlusconi told Italian television the 26-year-old had opted not to leave.

City issued a statement saying they had ended talks, believing it was unlikely a deal could be struck with Milan.

Executive chairman Garry Cook said: "The discussions reached only a preliminary stage and the player was not involved at any time."

City's bid for Kaka was reportedly worth £100m, more than £50m in excess of the current world transfer fee record Real Madrid paid to Juventus to sign Zinedine Zidane in 2001, and that the Premier League club were willing to pay the Brazilian weekly wages of £500,000.

"That's the end of the story," Berlusconi said. "I'm truly delighted to have kept Kaka at Milan.

"Kaka is a great champion and a great man. He has refused the offer from Manchester City, giving privilege to Milan, his companions and his fans.

"He said it's because money isn't everything in life. Kaka is staying with us and we're delighted. Money is important, but there are also other things that are important.

"The fans are delighted too. Turning down so much money is something to admire."

Cook, who spent Monday in meetings with Milan officials and Kaka's father and advisor Bosco Leite, added: "A transfer must work commercially, financially, results on the field and within City's broader community. No commercial terms were framed."

Earlier, a group of Milan fans had protested outside the club's headquarters over the possible sale of the Brazilian.

Supporters had also gathered outside Kaka's house and he responded by beating his hand on his heart while holding a Milan shirt.

On Saturday Kaka had played in Milan's 1-0 win over Fiorentina at the San Siro, with the home fans displaying banners such as "Kaka is Priceless" and "Hands Off Kaka".

After the game England international David Beckham, who is currently on loan at Milan from United States club LA Galaxy, had predicted the Brazilian would opt to stay at the San Siro.

"I don't think anybody in the dressing room is thinking about how much money they can earn," Beckham said.

"It's about playing with the best team, with the best players in the world and winning trophies, and it's not always about money.

"Ricardo doesn't need my advice. He will decide what he wants to do, but he loves Milan. I don't think he will leave."

Kaka joined Serie A giants Milan from Sao Paulo in 2003 and has since won the Italian league title, Champions League and Club World Cup.

The attacking midfielder has scored 86 goals in 244 appearances for Milan. He has also picked up 62 caps for Brazil and scored 23 goals.

Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, estimated to be worth £15bn, took over as City owner in September 2008 and extensive funds have been made available to City manager Mark Hughes.

So far he has secured the services of Wayne Bridge and Craig Bellamy during the January transfer window.

"It would have been an astonishing coup for City," BBC Radio 5 Live's senior football reporter Ian Dennis.

"But was Kaka ever going to come to City for football reasons?"

Kaka is under contract at the San Siro until 2013, and although he stated last February that he wanted to remain at Milan for the rest of his career, he had hinted at a desire to play in the Premier League - which he has described as the "best championship in the world".
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

2009-01-20T01:15:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 20 January 2009 )

English Premiership football News

Man City complete Bellamy signing
Striker Craig Bellamy has completed his transfer from West Ham to Manchester City for an undisclosed fee.

The Wales international, 29, underwent a medical earlier on Monday ahead of joining the eighth club of his career on a four-year contract.

He was left out of West Ham's squad for Sunday's 3-1 win over Fulham, having told club officials on Friday that he wanted to leave.

West Ham agreed a deal with City on Sunday. The fee is thought to be £14m.

Man City boss Mark Hughes, who managed Bellamy at Blackburn and during his time in charge of Wales, said: "I am delighted to be working with Craig once more.

"He is an outstanding player who provides us with qualities that we are slightly lacking.

"He has blistering pace, has bags of enthusiasm and has a superb attitude to training. He will be a great addition to the squad."

John Hartson, a former team-mate, also believes City have made a shrewd purchase.

"I know he's moved around a lot and let himself down on occasions, he'd be the first to admit that," Hartson told BBC Radio 5 Live.

"But he is very good professional, the first on the training ground and the last off it."

Bellamy joined West Ham for £7.5m last season and has previously had spells at Norwich, Coventry, Newcastle, Celtic, Blackburn and Liverpool.

Hammers boss Gianfranco Zola told the club's website: "I wish him all the best and I hope he does well and finds what he is looking for.

"I am very happy with what he has done for me and now he has decided to go somewhere else.

"We wanted to keep him but he wanted a new challenge and we respect that. For our fans, I can say again that we want to achieve a high level so we are looking for players that can help us make that happen."

And chief executive Scott Duxbury confirmed that West Ham had ruled out the Welshman moving to London rivals Tottenham.

"We refused him permission to talk to Tottenham last week and were determined to keep him despite repeated interest from them and Manchester City.

"However, on Friday he again made it clear to the manager and myself that he wanted to move on.

"Late on Sunday night, Gianfranco and I met and he said it was in the best interests to accept the player's request to leave and therefore Manchester City's bid."

Bellamy, who originally wanted to join Spurs, is expected to make his Man City debut at home to Newcastle on 28 January.
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership Result Update

2009-01-20T01:10:00.000-08:00

English Premiership Result.

19 January 2009

Liverpool 1 - 1 Everton

English Premiership Result.

18 January 2009

West Ham United 3 - 1 Fulham

Tottenham H. 1 - 1 Portsmouth

English Premiership Result.

17 January 2009

Blackburn R. 3 - 0 Newcastle United.

Bolton W. 0 - 1 Manchester United.

Chelsea 2 - 1 Stoke City.

Manchester City. 1 - 0 Wigan Athletic

Sunderland 1 - 2 Aston Villa

West Bromwich A. 3 - 0 Middlesbrough

Hull City. 1 - 3 Arsenal

by livescore.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

2009-01-17T06:28:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 17 January 2009 )

English Premiership football News

Kinnear offered extended contract
Joe Kinnear has revealed he has been offered the chance to become Newcastle's permanent manager.

Kinnear is currently contracted until the end of the season having arrived as interim manager following Kevin Keegan's departure last September.

However, Kinnear's performance appears to have persuaded the board to offer him a long-term deal.

"I'm just mulling over things in my head at the moment. I have been offered a very lucrative contract," he said.

"I know what my own future is," the 62-year-old added on talkSPORT.

The former Wimbledon and Nottingham Forest manager has led Newcastle out of the bottom three since owner Mike Ashley brought him to the club, winning four and drawing eight of his 17 games in charge.

"Mike Ashley, (managing director) Derek Llambias and I, we've sat down and talked about taking the club forward and about reinvesting in the club in the summer," said Kinnear.

"But I said to them that first and foremost, we have to work hard and establish ourselves as a Premier League side and get away from the relegation fight.

"I really don't need any more distractions than that.

"What I suggested to the club was that we all sit down in the summer and look at each other and say what direction do we want to take the club in, refinancing it, letting players go and bringing in my own players.

"I'll also see what my wife and family have to say about the situation of moving up here permanently."

Kinnear's spell at Newcastle has not been without controversy.

In October Kinnear launched a furious attack on the media in a news conference swearing 52 times.

And in November Kinnear was charged with improper conduct after his criticism of referee Martin Atkinson following his side's defeat by Fulham.

Earlier this month he was sent to the stands after a bust up with Hull boss Phil Brown during his side's 1-0 FA Cup defeat.
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

2009-01-16T11:38:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 16 January 2009 )

English Premiership football News

Benitez turns down contract offer
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has dismissed the Anfield club last contract offer, BBC Sport understands.

Benitez, 48, said he will accept that if the operation has more control over the gains in football instead of having to meet the chief executive Rick Parry.

"The owners feel (my) decisions must be submitted to the CEO," said Benitez Liverpool Echo.

"But I know I am the subject of results and our fans and they are the best judges I ever will."

Benitez, who accepted the financial terms and duration of the proposed contract, informed the American club owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett for his stand.

The Spaniard insists he has a strong relationship with the co-owners, but states that the proposed transaction would not allow him to manage the Liverpool football to the best of its abilities.

"My relationship with the owners is better than people think," he said. "I have regular contacts with them and especially with Tom Hicks, who has always been very favorable.

"The discussions between my agent and counsel of the owners have been very positive and friendly and our differences are my responsibilities.

"I have lots of experience at various football clubs, and if you do not have a technical director and you're the manager, you must have control of football decisions.

But always within a budget which is controlled by the owners and the club.

"In this scenario, the manager knows the amount he has money at his disposal and can decide how much to spend on each player based on the needs of the team.

"The only person who can decide the value of a player of his team because he is the manager knows what elements are needed to improve the team."

Hicks moved quickly to reassure supporters that Benitez will continue for the next five years, insisting he has no concerns about the contract rejection.

"I will work with Rafa to get this resolved - and I'm not worried at all," Hicks told Sky Sports News.

"Rafa will be the coach of Liverpool for the next five years, and we will work through this."

Benitez, whose current four-year expires in 2010, expressed their frustration at not having the level of control, I wish more of the club Kirkby-based academy.

"I think the academy is a very important part of the future of the club. The duration of the contract was accepted and it shows my long-term commitment to the club, "he said.

"I know that academies Ajax, Real Madrid, Barcelona, AC Milan and Valencia, the players and they regularly produce.

"The way the system works, it means the manager has a contribution in the development and I think this could be the way forward and we hope this will help us make better use of local talent."

Benitez led Liverpool to the top of the Premier League, still looking for their first championship title 19 years.

"I think this club has the potential to improve, and I just want to be able to help do this," he added.

"I will continue to do my job as manager and concentrate on the thing I want our fans to focus on - winning trophies for them.

"From the first day I came to the club that I have always given 100% and I will continue to do so.

"We have a very important match to face Everton on Monday evening and now I just want to be able to focus only on this point."
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

2009-01-16T10:11:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 16 January 2009 )

English Premiership football News

Man City offer '£13m' for De Jong
Manchester City have made an official bid to sign Hamburg midfielder Nigel de Jong, according to the German club.

De Jong's contract contains a clause that would allow him to leave in the summer for £1.8m, but City have reportedly bid £13.3m to buy him now.

"City contacted us, signalled their interest in him and made an offer," said a Hamburg spokesman.

The Dutch international, 24, has played 66 Bundesliga games for Hamburg since joining from Ajax for £1.2m in 2006.

"We now have to sit down and decide if it is worth considering. If we feel it is, then we will get back to them," added the Hamburg spokesman. "We have agreed not to discuss figures."

And De Jong, who is out of contract with Hamburg in 2010, has himself hinted that he would like the opportunity to join the Eastlands outfit, saying: "Everybody knows that I would like to play for a big club eventually.

"I count Manchester City in that category. I will take my time and listen to everything and then I will make the right decision for me.

"But I am a Hamburg player and it could be that I remain so."

However, Hamburg director of sport Dietmar Beiersdofer has said City face competition from a host of other clubs - including Spanish giants Real Madrid.

"I have spoken with him about Real Madrid and other clubs in that category, but not about City," he told German newspaper Die Welt.

"I will now speak with his agent and see what happens."

De Jong is the latest in a long line of players to have been linked with big-money moves to City since the January transfer window opened.

As well as their £107m bid to sign AC Milan midfielder Kaka, the Eastlands club are already known to have made offers for Blackburn striker Roque Santa Cruz and West Ham duo Craig Bellamy and Scott Parker.

Left-back Wayne Bridge, who signed from Chelsea for around £10m, remains the club's only signing of the January transfer window to date.
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

2009-01-16T10:01:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 16 January 2009 )

English Premiership football News

Portsmouth agree fee for Pennant
Liverpool have accepted an offer from Portsmouth for winger Jermaine Pennant.

The 26 years is set to discuss with staff Fratton Park club in the coming days, "according the website of Pompey.

Pennant has been linked with a move to Real Madrid and AC Milan since the transfer window, with Spurs, Wigan, Hull and Stoke also interested.

Pennant started his career at Notts County before moving to Arsenal and he also played for Birmingham.

Pennant has made 81 appearances for Liverpool since joining from Birmingham for £ 6.7m in July 2006.

But it has struggled to force his way to The Reckoning this season and has only played four times for the side Rafael Benitez.

Pennant Pompey boss Tony Adams knows their time together at Arsenal.
by bbcnews.

English Premiership football News

Hull snap up Manucho from Man Utd
Hull City have signed Manchester United striker Manucho on loan for the rest of the season, and he can face Arsenal on Saturday after earning a work permit.

The Angolan frontman, who was on loan at Panathinaikos last season, has made one Fa Barclaycard Premiership outing for United.

"The lad is a proven goalscorer at certain levels, though not yet in the Premier League," said boss Phil Brown.

"He is about 6ft 3in, great stature, he has a good eye for goal, and is certainly good aerially."

The Tigers also remain hopeful of signing former Liverpool right-back Steve Finnan from Espanyol.

It has been reported that the club's deal for 32-year-old Finnan fell through because of a long-standing thigh injury but Brown says he is still pursuing the player - although he would have to be convinced of Finnan's fitness before concluding any deal.

"It is a long way from being complete," said Brown of the move. "Steve has been injured and I think he has only played four games for Espanyol, which is a concern of ours, hence the reason he has undergone a medical to the extent he has.

"We are pulling out all the stops. We are making sure we are doing this one properly."

Brown has already completed the signing of Kevin Kilbane from Wigan this month.
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

2009-01-16T09:55:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 16 January 2009 )

English Premiership football News

Spurs 'on brink' of Palacios deal
Tottenham are on the brink of signing midfielder Wilson Palacios from Wigan after Latics boss Steve Bruce said a deal had been "virtually agreed".

The 24-year-old has been with Wigan for just over a year after he joined from Deportivo Olimpia on a three-and-a-half year deal for £1m in January 2008.

But the club have opted to cash in on the Honduran, with a deal of around £14m thought to have been agreed.

"The clubs have virtually agreed a fee. It's how it will be paid," said Bruce.

"It is up to us as a selling club to demand what we want in terms of how we should be paid and how we should be structured. We will see what happens.

"Wilson is still with us and I'm preparing him to play against Manchester City tomorrow. That's the situation at the moment but we will see what happens in the next few hours."

Tottenham had a bid of £10m rejected on Wednesday but Bruce conceded at the time that the club would not stand in Palacios's way if a bigger offer came in.

And he said on Friday: "You look at what we bought him for and what we might sell him for and it is quite remarkable.

"As a manager you don't want to lose one of your best players. The last thing I want to do is dismantle my team. Wilson has come from nowhere to being one of the best midfield players in the country.

"But of course we have to be realistic, which I am. We are Wigan Athletic and if it is the wish of the player (to leave) all these things have to be taken into consideration.

"Spurs can offer bigger contracts than us. They can blow us out of the water but it would be like losing my right arm."

Winger Antonio Valencia and striker Emile Heskey have also been linked with moves away from the JJB.

Valencia is a reported target of Real Madrid, while Aston Villa and Liverpool are rumoured to be interested in signing Heskey, who is out of contract in the summer.
by bbcnews.

English Premiership football News

Bellamy 'wants to join Tottenham'
Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp claims striker Craig Bellamy wants to leave West Ham, despite the Hammers declining bids from Spurs and Manchester City.

"We can confirm that Craig Bellamy has been offered a new contract," said a West Ham spokesman on Friday.

"We can also confirm that he has no permission to talk to other clubs including Spurs and Manchester City."

But Redknapp said: "Someone has told me he wants to come here and play. If we can do a deal, good."

City have had three bids for the 29-year-old Wales captain rejected, and Spurs have also had offers turned down.

On Monday, City offered £9m before making an improved bid two days later, while Tottenham are reported to have bid £12m as West Ham maintain that Bellamy is not for sale.

However, Hammers manager Gianfranco Zola has admitted it is pointless keeping players if they do not want to play for the club.

"What can I do about it? As far as I am concerned, I want to keep him - and the club want to keep him. But if a player wants to go it is difficult," said Zola.

"At the moment, he is a West Ham player and he will stay a West Ham player. However, I do not know if he will play on Sunday. We will see what happens.

"It is difficult to keep players who are unhappy at the club, but we will see what happens."

West Ham, whose owner Bjorgolfur Gudmundsson may sell the club, insist they do not want to offload players and are under no pressure to do so.

Manchester City have also so far failed to prise midfielder Scott Parker away from Upton Park

And the Hammers have reacted angrily to Newcastle's interest in captain Lucas Neill, saying they have not received any approach for the player despite Magpies boss Joe Kinnear claiming to have spoken to Neill's agent.

"We are astonished by reports that a Premier League manager has claimed contact with one of our contracted players," said the London club.

"Talks over a new contract with Lucas Neill - who remains committed to West Ham United - are due to be held in due course when appropriate for all parties."

Bellamy played under City manager Mark Hughes and assistant Mark Bowen with both Wales and Blackburn.

And Bowen told BBC Sport on Thursday: "Of course we're interested in Craig Bellamy, he is a player we very much admire and we are hopeful we can bring him to Manchester City.

"We've known Craig for many years, and had him at Blackburn Rovers, and we know what he brings to any team he plays for.

"It does make me smile as I think he is one of those players who you either love or hate. But fans of teams that he has played for love him and know what he gave for their team."

Redknapp is especially keen to bolster his squad's forward strength during the transfer window as he only has Darren Bent, Manchester United loanee Fraizer Campbell and Roman Pavlyuchenko, who is cup-tied in Europe.

Bellamy, a former Liverpool, Blackburn, Newcastle, Coventry and Norwich forward, has made 54 appearances for his country, scoring 16 goals.

Often a controversial figure, Bellamy has helped lead 10th-placed West Ham back up the Premier League table in recent weeks after they had initially struggled as Zola settled in at the club after joining as its new manager in September.
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership Result Update

2009-01-15T01:01:00.000-08:00

English Premiership Result.

14 January 2009

Manchester United. 1 - 0 Wigan Athletic

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

2009-01-14T08:49:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 14 January 2009 )

English Premiership football News

Kaka plays down link to Man City
Brazil star Kaka says he wants to stay at AC Milan despite talk of a transfer to Manchester City.

A delegation of the city was in Milan and allegedly made an offer in the region of £ 100m, with a weekly salary of £ 500,000 for the midfielder.

However, 26 years, said the website owned by TV Mediaset Milan owner Silvio Berlusconi: "I want to grow old in Milan.

"My goal is to become at some point in the future, the captain of this team."

With AC Milan Paolo Maldini is currently the captain armband, Kaka added: "I know there is a hierarchy and Maldini and (Massimo) Ambrosini is before me, but then ..."

After the first reports of the offer tabled on Wednesday, the City has refused to officially comment on the story.

A city spokesman told the BBC Radio Manchester: "We have been linked with more than 70 names that could come in this transfer window.
"We will not be drawn into any speculation on the names of any kind."

AC Milan has confirmed that its Executive Director Adriano Galliani met with the City on Tuesday to discuss the future of Kaka.

In a statement, the Serie A club said: "Galliani received a delegation from Manchester City yesterday in Milan as a gesture of courtesy, as always in these cases. There are no discussions yet. "

The current record for a player to the signing of £ 46m when France Zinedine Zidane moved from Juventus to Real Madrid in 2001.

Kaka joined Milan Serie A giants Sao Paulo in 2003 and has since won the title in the league, Champions League and World Club Cup

The midfielder has also chosen to attack the Ballon d'Or and the Fifa World Player of the Year in 2007.

Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, estimated to be worth £ 15bn, the city has taken as the owner in September 2008 and funds were made available to manager Mark Hughes.

However, he only retained the services of Wayne Bridge in the January transfer window, with bids rejected for West Ham forward Craig Bellamy and Blackburn striker Roque Santa Cruz.

The delegation of four men who traveled to Italy for talks with officials in Milan have included executive chairman Garry Cook, and two representatives of the Sheikh.

BBC Radio 5 Live's senior football journalist Ian Dennis said Sheikh Mansour stressed the move "desire to transform Manchester City", but added: "By taking advantage of what would be an incredible coup, is another matter .

With the club struggling in 15th position in the Premier League, it gives a tremendous impetus City if they were to seal the agreement of one of the best players in the world.

However, it is estimated that the move to target Kaka is led by club officials rather than Hughes himself.

Having started his career at Sao Paulo where he scored 58 goals, Kaka moved to Milan for € 5 million and has scored 86 goals in 244 appearances.

He also picked up 62 caps for Brazil and scored 23 goals after making his debut against Bolivia in January 2002 and presented in the 2002 World Cup winning team.

Kaka is under contract at San Siro until 2013, and last February he said he wanted to stay in Milan for the rest of his career, he alluded to a desire to play in League - which he described as the "best in the world championship."

After the surprise £ 32.5 Robinho's move to Eastlands and not in September, as planned, in Chelsea, the spokesman Diogo Kotscho City Kaka has warned it would need more than one control to convince the player to travel.

"Kaka would not do anything based on money," said Kotscho Corriere dello Sport. "I would never something like Robinho, who, for better, the content itself a solution that is not a success."

Italian football expert Gabrielle Marcotti told BBC Radio 5 Live, he said that the delegation of the city has started conversations with representatives spoke signing Milan keeper Nelson Dida.

"If I understand correctly, they are supposed to go to Milan as part of Ruse to talk about another player and during the conversation made Kaka and they said they would be willing to spend as much," said Marcotti .
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

2009-01-14T08:41:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 14 January 2009 )

English Premiership football News

Baggies reveal Luyindula interest
West Brom boss Tony Mowbray has confirmed interest in Paris St Germain striker Péguy Luyindula.

The 29-year French international is one of a number of objectives for the Premier League bottom club in January.

"I think Luyindula is a player who was raised with a few different clubs," said Mowbray BBC WM.

"I think it is probably more from Paris, seeking to spend perhaps on him, but he is a player we have spoken and watched."

The former Strasbourg, Lyon and Marseille striker has scored over 100 goals in Ligue 1 in France, enjoyed a brief stint in the Spanish League Levante, and has won four caps for his country, scoring once.

"I played against Manchester City this year in the group stages of the Uefa Cup," noted Mowbray.

"I have to make this event as another player, another to end the speculation."
by bbcnews.

English Premiership football News

Boro's Walker faces six weeks out
Middlesbrough midfielder Josh Walker will be out for up to six weeks after tests showed torn lateral ligaments from Saturday's derby with Sunderland.

Walker, 19, made his full debut in the game after loan spells with Bournemouth and Aberdeen and manager Gareth Southgate is disappointed by the news.

"The injury is a real blow to him," Southgate told BBC Tees after the game.

"He went over on his ankle and he was naturally upset when he had to come off because he had taken his chance well."

The Newcastle-born teenager has captained England at under-16, under-17, under-18 and represented the side at under-19 level.
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

2009-01-13T10:25:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 13 January 2009 )

English Premiership football News

Man Utd are favourites - Torres
Liverpool striker Fernando Torres believes Manchester United are favourites to win the Fa Barclaycard Premiership title after their 3-0 win over Chelsea.

The Anfield outfit head the table but United, who are five points behind in third place, have two games in hand.

"They are the favourites and the champions right now and have shown over the years they are a very powerful team," said the 24-year-old Spaniard.

"They have two more games to play. If they catch up they will be top."

Torres, who was one of the nominees for the Fifa Player of the Year award, which was won by United winger Cristiano Ronaldo, believes Liverpool's match at Old Trafford on 14 March could decide the destination of the title.

"We know we have Old Trafford waiting for us and Arsenal and Chelsea at home - we have to fight until the very end," added the forward.

"The match at Old Trafford could turn out to be the decider and we hope we can be on an equal footing when we go there and try to win the match at a place that has not been advantageous for us in the past."

United play host to Wigan on Wednesday before visiting Bolton on Saturday.

Wins would result in Sir Alex Ferguson's side gaining the advantage in the title race, with Liverpool not playing their next Premier League match until Monday - when they face Everton in a Merseyside derby at Anfield.
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

2009-01-13T10:21:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 13 January 2009 )

English Premiership football News

Benitez 'close' to Liverpool deal
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has revealed he is close to signing a new agreement to Anfield after accepting salary and length of a new contract.

Benitez, 48, revealed there are still some points that need to discuss before he puts pen on paper.

"We decided the length of the contract and we agreed to compensation.

"Now we have to discuss my role and my responsibilities as manager of the club," the Spaniard told the Liverpool Echo paper.

It was reported that a potential Stalling for any new operation was that Benitez wanted complete control over transfers.

But the Liverpool manager, denied there was any problem between him and the American club co-owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett on the remaining terms of the agreement.

"I have no problems at all with the American owners. My agent has received the draft of my contract (Monday) evening," he said.

"My surprise is that some journalists may speak there are problems even before I read and discussed."

Details of the contract and the salary offered to the manager of Liverpool have not been announced.
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

2009-01-13T10:15:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 13 January 2009 )

English Premiership football News

Injured Evra faces four weeks out
Manchester United full-back Patrice Evra could be out for four weeks with a foot injury.

The 27-year return of a four-match ban for the 3-0 victory for Chelsea on Sunday, was injured, but he set up as Wayne Rooney for United's second.

"Evra will be for three weeks, maybe four. It should not be that," said United manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

Fellow defense Rio Ferdinand was ruled out for weeks with a back injury.

Ferdinand shot in the warm-up before United won the day after Christmas to Stoke and has not played since the tournament of the FIFA Club World in Japan last month.

England, the defense should have played against Chelsea, but has a new spasm before the match and the league 30 years, United has also failed last five games.
In the absence of Ferdinand, United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has used 20 years, Jonny Evans to replace.

Ferguson said there was no damage to long-term injury to Ferdinand, but he needed a long rest, both directions and Evra, he missed the game Wednesday Wigan on Saturday and also meet far in Bolton.

"Rio has been a professional and there are no major problems with his back, but it will not be involved against Wigan," added the Scot.

"We are giving him a series of exercises, but it must be good and we hope it will be back for the Spurs game."

French Evra is also likely to miss the second leg of Carling Cup against Derby later this month, the FA Cup fourth round in conflict with Tottenham and Premier League matches against Everton and West Brom.

Both players have helped keep the Premier League the best defense this season, with only 10 goals conceded in 19 league matches.

by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

2009-01-13T10:11:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 13 January 2009 )

English Premiership football News

Hull target Boa Morte and Kilbane
Hull City manager Phil Brown said he was hopeful of completing the signing of Luis Boa Morte and Kevin Kilbane before the end of the week.

A fee was agreed with West Ham for Boa Morte, while the Tigers are close to agreeing on the terms of the Kilbane Wigan.

"We have made progress, things are underway," said Brown.

"The clubs have agreed terms on Luis Boa Morte, and we are trying to agree on the terms Kevin Kilbane, on a personal front as well."

After a good start to their debut season in the Premier League, whose victory at Arsenal, Hull are currently in a race with one victory in 12 games.

With his side currently eighth in the table, and only seven points above the relegation zone, Brown is anxious to strengthen his team during the transfer window to ensure that they consolidate their place in the elite .

It is hoping to block transactions for 31 years and Boa Morte Kilbane, also 31, Saturday, before the return clash with Arsenal and has not ruled out new signatures in January.

Speaking before the shell of an FA Cup third round replay on Wednesday in Newcastle, Brown added: "They can not play a part in Newcastle on Thursday but hopefully by Thursday or Friday, they will fruit.

"We said at the beginning of the season, we wanted to flood the place of Premier League and the quality of these two players have in abundance. For the quality of Hull City player would be great for the football club.

"I would like, in an ideal world perhaps three or four players and three or four - but this is not an ideal world.

"If there are players out there, you can get and will strengthen the situation, it is always good to go and get them.

"To refresh the place would not be a bad thing. We're looking to bring in a striker and we are trying to do in another defense."

Boa Morte has struggled to maintain a first team place at West Ham since his move from Fulham £ 5m in 2007 and has managed only one goal in 66 appearances at Upton Park.

Republic of Ireland international Kilbane joins Wigan after spending three years at Everton, but has slipped down the hierarchy to the JJB Stadium, Wigan with 11 in 20 Premier League games this season.

Both players Brown offers more options on the left side of midfield, with Peter Halmos, the club of the left acknowledge that the midfielder on foot.
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

2009-01-13T10:02:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 13 January 2009 )

English Premiership football News

Hamann sidelined with toe problem
Veteran midfielder from Manchester City Dietmar Hamann was ruled out for up to three months by a toe injury.

The former Germany international, 35, suffered the injury in training on Monday and is set to visit a specialist in Switzerland for an accurate diagnosis.

City boss Mark Hughes told his club's website: "The best scenario is that it is nine weeks, but it could be 12."

Hamann, who joined the city of Liverpool in July 2006, is out of contract at Eastlands at the end of the season.

Hughes is already in the long term, without prejudice to the absent Michael Johnson, and another center environments Stephen Ireland is suspended for Saturday Premier League match against Wigan.

"Didi kicked a ball in training yesterday, the end of a toe, and unfortunately it seems that May I have tendon rupture," added Hughes.

"I'm going to Zurich today to see a surgeon he saw with a similar injury before. The feeling is that this is the same as what happened before.

"Obviously, this is a stroke of Didi, but we're a bit in the areas of light that we could have done without it."

Hamann played 18 games for City this season, with his last appearance coming in their 3-0 home defeat by Nottingham Forest in the FA Cup third round on 3 January .
by bbcnews.

English Premiership football News

Beattie delighted to be a Potter
James Beattie is pleased to have completed its move from £ 2.5 million from Sheffield United to Fa Barclaycard Premiership side Stoke.

The 30-year-old former Blackburn Rovers, Southampton and Everton striker has signed a three and half year deal at Britannia Stadium on Monday.

He told BBC Radio Stoke: "I am very happy. I can not wait to start playing and join the fight.

"I am disappointed to leave Sheffield United, but the chance to play in the Premier League, which takes him.

Beattie, who joined the Blades from Everton in August 2007, said he was surprised to have had the opportunity to leave Bramall Lane.

"I do not think it was a decision Footballing let me go," Beattie said, "One more financial actions taken by the people."

And although shocked to be allowed to speak to the Pottery, Beattie said that the meeting manager Tony Pulis was enough to convince him to move to the Potteries.

"What I had heard many good things about the gaffer of people who know a lot about football," said Beattie. "He is a fighter, who wants to keep the club in the Premier League."

Beattie also said he was impressed by the performance of the city on Saturday evening in the goalless draw with league leaders Liverpool.

"The guys all seemed to be pulling in the right direction," said Beattie. "They were ready to fight and it is a big part of my game, then maybe that is why the gaffer wanted me put here. "

There are now more than five years since Beattie, who made the England fold alongside his colleagues Wayne Rooney starting in February 2003, won the last of his five England caps.

Beattie and the Fa Barclaycard Premiership has not played football since his last match for Everton in May 2007 ended a lean time in front of the lens, in which he scored two goals all season.

But after his goal, to reach Rediscovering a notch with the Blades (34 goals in 57 shots starts), he now feels better equipped to cope with the demands of top flight.

"I think I am a better player now than I was when I left," said Beattie. "I hope I can show the fans and my new team-mates.
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

2009-01-12T10:37:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 12 January 2009 )

English Premiership football News

Ferguson hits back in Benitez row
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has branded Rafael Benitez's recent comments as "ridiculous".

Liverpool boss Ferguson said of impunity is to criticize the referees and even suggested United are "a little scared" of the Fa Barclaycard Premiership leaders.

"There was a lot of venom in what he said," Ferguson said. "I do not understand where it came.

"When he reflects on what he must understand what he says is ridiculous. It is clearly disturbed by something."

Ferguson Benitez refused to discuss his comments in too much detail, preferring to bask in his side the 3-0 win over Chelsea.

After the impressive victory Sunday at Old Trafford, the third United closed the gap on Liverpool to five points, two games in hand.

Benitez has launched his attack on Ferguson during a four-minute monologue at a press conference on Friday and also said he believed the Scot was nervous because Liverpool are at the top of the league.

"We had a meeting about the campaign and I said forget it because Mr. Ferguson is" killing "the referees," said the Spaniard.

He added that Ferguson is "the only manager who will not be punished for verbally attacking referees and also argued that Ferguson and United's support staff of intimidating match officials.

An unrepentant Benitez has launched a new attack on follow Ferguson Liverpool 0-0 draw at Stoke on Saturday, suggesting the skipper May be "a little scared" of the Merseyside club to the title challenge.

"In 20 years, nobody can say these things, but perhaps they think the same thing as me," said Benitez. "I do not regret it."

Its shares, apparently caused by the claim that Ferguson NERVE May affect Liverpool's title challenge has caused great debate, while the Football Association Benitez is set to review the committee before deciding to take action against him.

But the Liverpool manager says he has received plenty of support.

"I can guarantee that many people have sent many messages, not for me but for our staff and a large number of people in Liverpool," he revealed.

"He is a person to say what everyone wants to say, but I did not think that people think, I was thinking about my club and Mr. Ferguson's comments on Liverpool this season. You can understand why. "

When asked if he thought Ferguson was nervous, Benitez replied: "Obviously. Perhaps it is a little scary.

"He talks too much Liverpool. It is to think about his own team, the problems they have and what they do."
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

2009-01-12T10:30:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 12 January 2009 )

English Premiership football News

Man City bid for Bellamy rejected
West Ham have rejected an improved offer from Manchester City for striker Craig Bellamy, BBC Sport understands.

City boss Mark Hughes said last week that a joint bid for Bellamy and Scott Parker had been turned down, but City have gone back for the Wales striker.

The latest bid for Bellamy, 29, is believed to be about £9m.

West Ham, whose owner Bjorgolfur Gudmundsson may sell the club, insist they do not want to offload players and are under no pressure to do so.

More to follow
by bbcnews.

English Premiership football News

Lovenkrands earns Magpies trial
Danish international winger Peter Lovenkrands has joined Newcastle United on a week's trial.

Lovenkrands, 28, who spent six years with Scottish side Rangers from 2000 to 2006, was recently released by German outfit Schalke.

"He's out of contract but he is coming in for us to have a look," Magpies assistant manager Chris Hughton told the Northern Echo.

"He is an experienced player, a player with pace," added Hughton.
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership Result Update

2009-01-11T14:57:00.000-08:00

English Premiership Result.

11 January 2009

Wigan Athletic 1 - 0 Tottenham H.

Manchester United. 3 - 0 Chelsea

English Premiership Result.

10 January 2009

Aston Villa 2 - 1 West Bromwich A.

Arsenal 1 - 0 Bolton W.

Everton 2 - 0 Hull C.

Fulham ? - ? Blackburn R. Postp.

Middlesbrough 1 - 1 Sunderland

Newcastle U. 2 - 2 West Ham U.

Portsmouth ? - ? Manchester C. Postp.

Stoke C. 0 - 0 Liverpool
by livescore

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

2009-01-07T11:54:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 07 January 2009 )

English Premiership football News

Arsenal face Arshavin frustration
Arsenal tried to sign Andrei Arshavin from Zenit St Petersburg is organized by the Russian club in demand, according to his agent.

The Gunners and Italian side Juventus have been linked with a £ 20m deal, but said Dennis Lachter Zenit want the price to be paid in a lump sum.

He said: "They want money at once. They have done this way when they were £ 24m for Danny and they want the same thing.

"Many clubs are afraid of how Zenit Russia and other clubs to do business."

Despite the position of Zenit, Lachter said he is still confident Arshavin will leave the club in the January transfer window.

"This is going to happen," he added.

"There are 10, 15, 20 teams who are interested in him. The question is can we offer? "

Zenit coach Dick Advocaat has confirmed Arsenal's interest in the 27 years Shone during Euro 2008.

"I am aware that Arsenal are interested but I do not know any more than that," said Dutchman Advocaat.

"I am waiting for from Arshavin. He is a top player and could play for one of the best teams in England. "

"Arshavin has played for us last season but has not played as much as possible. There is still more to come from him and people will see this."

Russia, the season ended in November with Rubin Kazan fashioned claiming their first domestic title with the 2007 champions Zenit languishing in fifth.

In December, told BBC Sport that Lachter Zenit and the player, who has been linked with a move to Tottenham in the summer, decided that it should find a new club in January.

"It will move in January or the player and the club to lose money," he said.

"Andrei Zenit and that it is time for them to some of the other."

Lachter but denied reports that the player has visited the training grounds of Arsenal and Spurs on a recent trip to London.
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

2009-01-07T11:47:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 07 January 2009 )

English Premiership football News

Harewood agent denies Stoke talk
Marlon Harewood's agent has said Stoke City have not contacted Aston Villa about a possible move for the striker.

Press reports have linked the 29-year-old with a £2m move from Villa Park to the Britannia Stadium.

But Phil Sproson told BBC Radio Stoke: "To my knowledge nothing has been said to Aston Villa about Stoke getting hold of Marlon.

"That's all just paper talk at the moment but there has been conversations with other clubs."

Harewood has endured limited first-team chances at Villa this season and Sproson said the former West Ham man would be interested in a move from Birmingham if it meant regular football.

"I wouldn't say Marlon had a point to prove but he's certainly anxious to play football again," he said.

"If Stoke were serious about signing Marlon then he would be serious about talking to them."
by bbcnews.

English Premiership football News

Ameobi pens new deal at Newcastle
Newcastle striker Shola Ameobi has approved a contract extension that will keep at St James' Park until 2012.

The 27-year-old, who began his career at Newcastle in 2000, has scored three goals in 14 matches this term.

Last season, he had a loan period at Stoke, but has not scored a short passage in a project and move to Ipswich collapsed when he failed a medical.

"I had not played for some time and had to prove to myself - I think I've done," he told the club website.

Ameobi added: "Now I am delighted to play many more games for Newcastle, which was probably not a few months ago.

"I think I can do and now my future is in the order I can focus on the right on the ground.

"I am confident I can do and the club are also, by which they expressed their faith with the contract. It is now up to me to prove it. "

Injuries have marked the progress of Ameobi and he spent five months on the sidelines after hip surgery in November 2006.

Nearly half of his 244 appearances were as a substitute.

But Newcastle boss Joe Kinnear has several other injuries on his team and wants to keep his players and make new additions.

Ironically, Stalemate Ameobi missed the FA Cup against Hull at the weekend with a paralyzing injury, but he hopes to return for the league match at home against West Ham on Saturday.

Speaking of his contract extended, Ameobi, who need more than one goal to reach 50 for the club, said: "I am delighted to sign a new agreement of my future and commit to Newcastle United.
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

2009-01-07T11:41:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 07 January 2009 )

English Premiership football News

No bids for Santa Cruz - Rovers
Blackburn Rovers chairman John Williams said he was not yet received any offers for the striker Roque Santa Cruz.

The Paraguay international, 27, has been linked with a move to Manchester City, Mark Hughes, whose director has taken him to Ewood Park in July 2007.

But Williams told the Lancashire Telegraph there had been no offer.

"The situation continues to St. Croix to hang over our heads, but we have no offers at the moment there is nothing to discuss," he said.

Santa Cruz to sign a new contract with Rovers in August, but told BBC 5 Live BBC last month he would leave Ewood Park if a better or an ambitious club, came to him.

But Williams said his main concern was to strengthen the team manager Sam Allardyce as Blackburn, currently 19th in the Fa Barclaycard Premiership to try to avoid relegation.

And he revealed Rovers were close to landing their first target of the January transfer window.

"There is a player we have made progress," added Williams. "I would say we are very close to making an offer for a player, but I would like to stress once again there was no emergency.

"Sam has looked very carefully at what we have, however, and we believe it would be a good player to improve what we have at the club.

"It does not take a scattergun approach to the transfer window, and I want to stress at the moment there have been no offers made or received."
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

2009-01-06T23:59:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 06 January 2009 )

English Premiership football News

Benitez relaxed on Reds transfers
Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez has hinted he is unlikely to make a significant transfer deals in January.

The Spaniard is happy with his current team, which took Liverpool to the top of the Premier League and the final phase of the Champions League.

He said: "We do not need to go into the transfer market, we are certainly not desperate to do so.

"If we need to find something we will try, but it is always difficult in this window and very expensive."

Benitez hand has been strengthened by the return to fitness of striker Fernando Torres and defenders Martin Skrtel, Fabio Aurelio and Alvaro Arbeloa.

He added: "We finished 2008 very well, we played with style and have scored many goals. I am very happy and satisfied with the situation and we hope this will continue in the new year.

"We have other players outside Torres returning from injury. It is Skrtel, Aurelio and Arbeloa all fit now. It will be like the signing of three new players."

"We are in a good position and I am happy to use the players we have now returned from injury."

Liverpool has been closely linked to the initiatives of former striker Emile Heskey, currently at Wigan, Portsmouth and defend Glen Johnson.

But the Reds have not beaten and Benitez is now increasingly likely to make an attack on three trophies with the players currently at his disposal.

Out-of-favor Jermaine Pennant, who has been linked with Real Madrid, AC Milan and Wigan, May leave.

But Benitez will reject any attempt by AC Milan to sign Daniel Agger wants to defend and maintain Andrea Dossena, who has struggled since his arrival from Udinese in the summer.

Benitez wants to keep all his defensive resources after it was confirmed Liverpool lost impressive young Argentinian Emiliano Insua until February 8, as it will be to South America U-20 Championships.
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

2009-01-06T23:48:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 06 January 2009 )

English Premiership football News

Spurs set to finalise Defoe deal
Tottenham are ready to sign England striker Jermain Defoe for a fee thought about £ 15m, after the adoption of an agreement with Fa Barclaycard Premiership rivals Portsmouth.

Defoe returns to the club he left in less than a year over a five-year contract.

Harry Redknapp initially attracted Defoe, 26 years old, from White Hart Lane to Pompey for an agreement to the tune of £ 12m in 2008 when he was in charge at Fratton Park.

Defoe Spurs a parade before their home fans ahead 4-1 Carling Cup first semi-final win over Burnley.

Tottenham are still a few loose ends to tie on top of the Fa Barclaycard Premiership with the transfer of the requisite approval L19 article prohibits players from clubs back in a year.

This rule was introduced to prevent clubs abusing the loan system.

The authorization should not be a problem, my understanding of the sale while the clause worth around £ 4m was lifted by Portsmouth, "said BBC Radio Five Live football senior journalist Ian Dennis.

"While the package is £ 15 million initial investment is not even double digits in terms of millions of people. Any transfer of more than £ 10m, Spurs must announce to the Stock Exchange and there was no List of this transfer. "

Defoe has scored 17 goals in 36 games for Portsmouth, including eight in its first seven games and nine more this season.

Any arrangement for the future, which has scored six goals in 32 appearances for England, will also include amounts due from Portsmouth to Tottenham for deals in Younes Kaboul and Pedro Mendes.

The leader has also been linked with Manchester City and Aston Villa.

Former Spurs defend Gary Stevens is the deposit before being a great success on his return to the club.

"Defoe is a striker with an excellent track record and if you hit play on a regular basis and to provide ammunition, it enables you to get the goals is what I was born to do," he said BBC Sport.

"I am sure that when he moved to Portsmouth last January for a moment, he has no plans to return to Spurs within a year.
"But I think he never wanted to leave the club in first place and it seems that I always had great affection for Tottenham. It's a win-win for the club and the player."

This will be the third time, Defoe has played under Redknapp that the duo were also together at West Ham on the end of the century.

And this will also be key, Stevens said: "The relations are developing in football and Harry knows exactly what it is to Defoe - and how to get the better of him.

"First things first, Jermain needs to get the goals to help the Spurs away from the drop zone. But Spurs are still in three Cup competitions and they say everything about football is the time - maybe Jermain's arrival is just in time for him to make a cup final. "

Redknapp is also keen to sign a midfielder left for the transfer window, Middlesbrough in January but have already rejected two offers of Londoners from Stewart Downing.
by bbcnews.

English Premiership football News

Denilson given trial with Bolton
Bolton have won the World Cup Brazilian Denilson a trial.

Manager Gary Megson is willing to take a look at the 31-year-old, who is a free agent after being released from Brazilian club Palmeiras.

The flamboyant forward has become the world's most expensive player when he moved to Betis from Sao Paulo in 1998 for £ 21.5.

Wanderers have also Hungarian keeper Adam Bogdan, 21, a new contract, which runs until 2011.

Denilson has spent seven seasons in Spain before spells at Bordeaux, and Al-Nasr FC Dallas.

He has won 68 caps for his country and was part of the Brazil team that won the 2002 World Cup

He also played in the 1998 final when Brazil lost 3-0 to France.
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

2009-01-06T23:42:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 06 January 2009 )

English Premiership football News

Hull happy to let Windass leave
Dean Windass has been told he can leave the hull after finding his first team chances limited to the KC Stadium.

Windass has not done since being substituted at half time during the hull of the Boxing Day defeat at Manchester City.

The 39-year striker has cast doubt on his future by saying Hull manager Phil Brown has not spoken with him since before Christmas.

Leeds United, Oldham Athletic and Hartlepool United are said to be interested in the former Bradford man.

Windass said he has not heard of the interest of clubs in the transfer window.

"I have heard nothing of my club officials or any person making an offer for me," he said.

Windass, scored the winning goal in Hull 1-0 Championship play-off final victory over Bristol City last May, but was left disheartened by developments this season.

"I am very frustrated and have no idea what is happening with my situation," he said.

"Our boss has made a number of changes to the side and gave fringe players a chance to impress, but unfortunately I was not one of them.

"The chief did not talk to me for three weeks. I am not saying that trying to capture a title - he has other priorities, like trying to run a football club - but just to show how Things are uncertain for me. "
by bbcnews.

English Premiership football News

Baggies hit by new injury worries
West Brom boss Tony Mowbray is waiting on the fitness of Gianni Zuiverloon and James Morrison before finalizing plans for the derby Saturday at Aston Villa.

Dutch defend Zuiverloon has a sore knee, while Scottish international Morrison had a slight groin strain.

Thursday will be the test for Gianni and James, "Baggies manager Tony Mowbray told the club website." If they do not doubt they will. "

West Brom is already less Abdoulaye Meite and Filipe Teixeira.

"Filipe know where Abu really is," said Mowbray. "They are one week, maybe two weeks.

"Let them fall back to the cup game or Middlesbrough at home, perhaps the one after that - I do not know."

Mowbray has also indicated that it will not be sending striker Craig Beattie on loan again during the transfer window, preferring to keep the Scottish international in its first team.

Beattie drew attention to the return of a short stay at Crystal Palace in the Championship.

"He came back with a real spring in his step and we have had no contact with Palace or anyone else," said Mowbray. "We'll have to see how the selection of the team going.

"He proved he can score in the Fa Barclaycard Premiership and we hope that the goals, there is more there for him."
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

2009-01-05T10:31:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 05 January 2009 )

English Premiership football News

Boro determined to keep Downing
Middlesbrough say they have rejected a written transfer request non winger Stewart Downing.

Downing, who has 21 England caps, has signed a five-year deal in February 2008, but has become increasingly frustrated by the club struggle.

Tottenham Hotspur had a buyer for £ 6m for 24 years rejected by Middlesbrough last week.

Manager Gareth Southgate has repeatedly insisted that local boy Downing would not be sold.

And CEO Keith Lamb said: "We have received a written transfer request by Stewart this morning. It was examined before being dismissed.

"Before receiving the transfer request, we received a better offer from Tottenham for Stewart.

"We immediately rejected the offer and told Tottenham that Stewart Downing is not for sale and any interest they have in the drive will not show."

Chairman Steve Gibson added that senior players would be leaving in the January transfer window.

The Teesside club are not under financial pressure to unload one of the most active price, but Southgate is not thought to have been aware of Downing's desire to leave.

But Downing's father, Stewart, told the Middlesbrough Evening Gazette: "Frustrated Stewart has been since the summer, really.

"When he signed his new contract, he assured that there would be significant investment in the team.

"He believes that the club did not match those expectations. There is also frustrated that the team is once again the difficulties in the Premier League.

"Of course, Middlesbrough as a kid, he thought long and hard about the decision to hand in a transfer request and it hopes that fans will understand his reasons for doing so."

Southgate's opinion in May became similar to the scenario involving Yakubu when he made clear his future lay away from the Riverside Stadium and was allowed to leave quickly.

The Nigeria international was sold to Everton for € 11.25m in August 2007, with Southgate saying he felt the striker was "emotionally ill" below and play his best thereafter.

Southgate said at the time: "When a player is unstable at this point, it is time to get the best possible for the club."

Boro Downing assessment is nearly £ 15m, which smash their transfer record fate, but it remains to be seen whether the Spurs will have the same opinion.
by bbcnews.

English Premiership football News

Arsenal's Wilshere signs pro deal
Arsenal midfielder promising Jack Wilshere signed a professional contract with the club after turning 17 on New Year's Day.

Wilshere is the youngest player to represent the club in the league and European competition.

The club since the age of nine, he had already been on a scholarship.

"Jack is a player with great potential, with a capacity to find the final ball and scoring goals," manager Arsene Wenger told the Arsenal website.

"Jack is a passionate and committed young player, he is not afraid of trafficking and I am convinced it has the enormous power of penetration in a few years.

"We have already seen the qualities of Jack in both his first team performances and training on a regular basis, and we look forward to Jack to be an important part of our first team for years to come . "

Wilshere made his Fa Barclaycard Premiership debut as a substitute against Blackburn on 13 September 2008.

He made his first start in the 6-0 Carling Cup victory over Sheffield United 10 days later, scoring his first goal for the senior club.

The Hitchin-born player then made his Champions League debut as a substitute against Dynamo Kiev on November 25.
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

2009-01-05T10:19:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 05 January 2009 )

English Premiership football News

Liverpool wait on Alonso injury
Liverpool are awaiting news on the injury to Xabi Alonso, who needed seven Stitcher in his foot during Saturday's 2-0 FA Cup win against Preston.

The midfielder was removed at the end of the first half and was later seen on the bench wearing a protective boot.

Liverpool assistant manager Sammy Lee said: "We do not know the extent of the injury, except for the fact I will be very painful.

"I hope there will be no pity, but we do not know 24 to 48 hours."

Alonso, 27, suffered the injury during his attempted shot was blocked by the defense well-placed Preston after Robbie Keane put the ball to him on The Edge of the box.

The Spaniard was then treated as the players walked off for half-time, but it does not appear for the second half of the third round tie and was replaced by Lucas Leiva.

Alonso had a nice first half of the season for Liverpool after being on the verge of joining Juventus in the summer when Liverpool tried to sign Aston Villa Gareth Barry.

He also said as recently as October that he was still interested in a move to the Turin club.

Liverpool next match is against Stoke in the Fa Barclaycard Premiership on Saturday, followed by Everton in the Merseyside derby on 19 January. They also face Chelsea on 1 February.
by bbcnews.

English Premiership football News

Defender Diatta on trial at Stoke
Former Newcastle defend Lamine Diatta has joined Stoke City on trial, reports BBC Radio Stoke.

The Senegal international, who arrived at Trent Vale Stoke field training Monday, has been without club since leaving Newcastle in May.

Diatta has spent two months with the Magpie last season, in just two substitute appearances.

The 33 years old, who began his career at French side Toulouse, played for Senegal in the 2002 World Cup.
by bbcnews.

English Premiership football News

Mowbray happy with Simpson debut
West Bromwich Albion boss Tony Mowbray is optimistic that striker Jay Simpson can make a real impact during his loan spell from Arsenal.

"I think he'll be fine," Mowbray told BBC WM. "He's a young boy, he's ambitious, he's hungry to do well.

"He's a quick player and once he gets to know his team-mates then I think he'll be fine for us."

Simpson made his Baggies debut in the second half of the 1-1 FA Cup draw against Peterborough at The Hawthorns.

And his performance was one of few Albion highlights as former Wolves midfielder Darren Ferguson's Peterborough forced a replay at London Road on Tuesday 13 January (1945 GMT).

The Baggies were stretched by visiting Posh strikers Craig Mackail-Smith and Aaron McLean. And Mowbray admits that their performance came as no surprise.

"They're good footballers and they score goals on a regular basis, so we thought they'd be a handful and they were," said the Albion boss. "We left a little bit frustrated, but we live to fight another day."
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

2009-01-02T11:05:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 02 January 2009 )

English Premiership football News

Man Utd seal deal for Serbian duo
Manchester United have completed the signing of the pair Serbian Zoran Tosic and Adem Ljajic Partizan Belgrade.

Left winger Tosic and midfielder Ljajic arrive at Old Trafford for an undisclosed fee, although reports claim a combined figure of 16.3 pounds.

The 21-year goes directly into the United team while 17-year loan Ljajic will return to Partizan.

Boss Sir Alex Ferguson said: "For us in the transfer window. We made our company this season. "

Tosic - nicknamed Bambi because of his skinny build - first appeared 12 times for his country and can play on either flank, having also starred in Serbia Under-21 side.

He will join COUNTRYMAN Nemanja Vidic at Old Trafford and increase the number 14 shirt while Ljajic will arrive in the United 2009/10 season.

Ferguson said: "We were Tosic to watch more than one year and at that time, I became a regular in the Serbian national team.

"It is a winger and we like the scale of players here at Manchester United, so we hope it will do well for us.

"He has not played since Dec. 10, however, he will need time to adjust to the speed of The Game here and get used to training.

"But he himself is accustomed to eleven rhythm, then I am sure he will play a role for us this season. Ljajic is another good player with real quality and I will come to Manchester in time for next season. "

Tosic increases manager Sir Alex Ferguson options on the left wing with Ryan Giggs and Nani it struggles already in that position although in recent weeks, Ji-Sung Park has also played there.
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

2009-01-02T10:56:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 02 January 2009 )

English Premiership football News

Man City agree a fee for Bridge
Manchester City have agreed fees with anyone Fa Barclaycard Premiership rivals Chelsea to defend England Wayne Bridge.

City boss Mark Hughes confirmed the deal on Friday and it is estimated that the club could pay up to £ 12m for Bridge.

The 28-year-old left back joined Chelsea for £ 7m from Southampton in July 2003.
But Bridge has seen his chances at Stamford Bridge reduced Ashley Cole since his arrival.

He signed a new four-year extension to his Chelsea contract in July 2008, but has become surplus to requirements since the arrival of Scolari, who has chosen to use Juliano Belletti as deputy for Cole at left back .

"If they have a good deal, no problem for me," Scolari said on Friday.

And speaking of the city before the FA Cup tie against Nottingham Forest on Saturday, Hughes said: "To my knowledge, the clubs have agreed a fee.

"We need to talk to the child and try to agree personal. If we can do hope that Wayne will be a Manchester City player is the goal.

"Wayne will probably travel to Manchester tonight and I hope that the negotiations go well and I can have a doctor tomorrow."

Hughes was in the twilight of his career when he noticed that Bridge one-and-coming player in Southampton.

"He is a player I knew when I was at Southampton and future, it was in the ranks," added Hughes.

"It was remarkable and you advance from year to year. I would be very happy to welcome here.

"Wayne is a good player - he is an England international who plays for one of four clubs in the country."

Bridge is currently suffering an injury that will keep Chelsea's Cup third round match against Southend United on Saturday.

City rich Arab oil billionaire Sheikh Mansour club and Khaldoon Al Mubarak are to finance a January spending spree with the intention of lifting the city clear of the relegation zone.

Bridge has made 142 appearances for Chelsea over five years and winning 32 International caps for England.
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

2009-01-02T10:45:00.001-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 02 January 2009 )

English Premiership football News

Dyer ready to make Hammers return
West Ham manager Gianfranco Zola is set to welcome midfielder Kieron Dyer after 17 months of injury for Saturday dismissal of FA Cup tie against Barnsley.

The 29-year broke his leg in a Carling Cup tie at Bristol Rovers in August 2007 and suffered a stress fracture even earlier this season.

But the England international has impressed in training this week and is ready to be included in the weekend.

"It is focused and he is very excited to play," said Zola.

"It has worked well in recent weeks and we will try to return because it is an important player. I saw the training, it tries very hard and has great qualities.

"I know it was a big injury for him and I know it's frustrating because it is training, training, training and I would like to play.

"After such a long time, it would be difficult for him to be involved from the beginning."

Dyer has made three appearances for the Hammers since completing a £ 6m move from Newcastle in August 2007.
by bbcnews.

English Premiership football News

Everton dealt Saha injury setback
Everton Striker injury crisis has also been composed in Louis Saha was ruled out for five weeks due to injury Hamstring.

The Frenchman took over the injuries during the 1-0 Tottenham on November 30, with the club hoping to have new Christmas accessories.

But the results of a second scan revealed the injury is more serious than first diagnosed.

"It will be for another four to five weeks," said boss David Moyes.

Everton are already without Yakubu, James Vaughan and Victor Anichebe, with Moyes forced to play midfielder Tim Cahill make-shift as the sole striker in the 3-0 win over Sunderland last Sunday.

Nigerian international Yakubu had surgery for a rupture of the Achilles tendon and will be for the rest of the season, while Vaughan is back before the end of the season after a knee operation last month.

Moyes could look in Reinforcements January transfer window, but financial constraints could force the club before they can sell their ranks depleted Bolster striking.
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

2008-12-31T11:52:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 31 December 2008 )

English Premiership football News

Gerrard receives Benitez backing
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez says Steven Gerrard has his "full support and support" following his captain after the arrest of an alleged brawl.

Gerrard was charged with assault and affray after an incident in a bar in Southport in the early hours of Monday.

Benitez said: "I sat with him and had a very good talk about the situation. We will do what we can to support Steven in the coming weeks. "

Benitez also confirmed that Gerrard, 28, took part in training Wednesday.

Gerrard was arrested with five other men - including two facing the same charges that Heath - near the hostel Lounge bar and nightclub in the resort.

Benitez added: "Steven told me what had happened and I told him he has my full support and support, as well as everyone in the football club.

"It is formed with other guys, after a couple of days off to the team and is now keen to concentrate solely on football. He is our captain and a key player for us.

"We worked very hard to get the position we are through the new year and we are all determined to keep the progress going. We now focus on our preparation for the Cup game at Preston this weekend. "

Professional footballers Association Chief Executive Gordon Taylor said: "We have a brief comment on this matter and suggested that any assistance we can. I was worried when I heard about the case as I've known Steven Gerrard long.

"I do not know all the details but the players' Union, we want to be supportive of him."

England arrived in midfield Liverpool's training ground in the suburb of West Derby AT 1005 GMT and was greeted by a handful of fans despite freezing temperatures.

It has so far remained silent on the controversy on Tuesday and his wife Alex Curran, 26, said they would not comment.

Gerrard's visit to the bar on Sunday followed Liverpool 5-1 demolition of Newcastle at St James' Park, a game in which England international scored twice, as the reds moved three points clear of Chelsea at the top of the Premier League .

At 34, the man was taken to hospital with facial injuries after the alleged incident. Gerrard is to appear at North Sefton Magistrates' Court, with two other men on January 23.

The Football Association said it would not make a comment on the case Gerrard other than to stress that his position with England was not in question.

She added that the players continue to be considered for England while police investigations were under way with their situation reviewed on a case by case are to be found guilty of a serious criminal offense.

Meanwhile, Liverpool legend Kenny Dalglish believes Gerrard will face the review, saying: "Liverpool will support and the Liverpool fans supporting him extremely well. He has a very strong personality and I am sure it will not affect its performance.

A statement from Liverpool, published Tuesday, read: "Steven has been an outstanding servant of Liverpool in the last 10 years and the club will give him all the support he needs at this time."

Gerrard has been capped 70 times by England captain and his country four times. He was appointed MBE last year and received an honorary fellowship from Liverpool John Moores University.
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

2008-12-31T11:45:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 31 December 2008 )

English Premiership football News

Defoe and Bellamy on Spurs radar
Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp said he would be interested in signing Jermain Defoe or Craig Bellamy in January, but for the right price.

However, 61 years, dismissed reports he was set to make a £ 30m triple to melt trio Portsmouth Defoe, Peter Crouch and Glen Johnson.

Redknapp, who left Portsmouth earlier this season, has already had a £ 6m bid rejected by West Ham for Bellamy.

He told BBC Sport: "If they do not want to sell, there is nothing we can do."

It was considered Tottenham ended their interest to the redemption Striker Defoe after Redknapp revealed last week that the south coast club has received a "massive offer" from the England striker.

Redknapp has Defoe to Pompey 11 months ago and has been heavily linked with a move for the 26 years since taking over at White Hart Lane.
Manchester City and Aston Villa are also understood to be interested in signing the England forward.

"If the price is right and Tony Adams [Portsmouth manager] and Peter Storrie [Portsmouth CEO] want to sell itself and that is what we consider our assessment and theirs, then fine," said Redknapp, on Wednesday.

"There are other options as well, I have a short list and if we do not get one, we can move to another.

"[But] I do not think we'll be splashing large quantities, the president asked who I want, if we could get. If we can stop a couple then great. "

Redknapp is particularly keen to strengthen his team forward during the transfer window that I only have Darren Bent, Manchester United loanee Fraizer Campbell and Roman Pavlyuchenko, who is cup-tied in Europe.

"Bent and were Pavlyuchenko £ 30m and much money to spend on two strikers and say they can not play together," said Redknapp.

"I am left with this problem and if they can, I do not know."

The Spurs manager also revealed he was interested in signing Middlesbrough winger Stewart Downing.

"I like Downing, but I do not know if Middlesbrough want to sell," said Redknapp.
"If can find a great player left, I would like to have one. That and a leader would be the priority."
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

2008-12-31T11:41:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 31 December 2008 )

English Premiership football News

Fuller sorry for Griffin incident
Stoke City striker Ricardo Fuller has apologized to the club supporters of the incident which saw him tap his own captain Andy Griffin.

The dispute occurred following Carlton Cole equalizer for West Ham last weekend, Stoke game has to lose.

"It happened and that's all - I'm sorry for the fans as we did not get the three points," said Fuller.

"I told Griff 'to clear the ball and he was rude and disrespectful. He does now and dust."

The couple participated in a lively exchange that grow and grow. Fuller was dismissed for violent conduct and will now face a spell on the sidelines.

He added: "What he said was bad, but what I did was worse and I am likely to be suspended for three or four games now."

Stoke chairman Peter Coates said the new promoted club wants to keep the 29 years, even if the player is not sure that his actions have caused irreparable damage.

"Who knows? It is for the club, "Fuller said in regard to its future.

"I give my all for Stoke, all the time. I can be too.

"Maybe that's why I'm in this position now because I try to do much more to football and Stoke City because I am a player from Stoke City at the moment and that's all I care about - Stoke City, the team and myself.

"Anything goes, goes, I'm OK. This is not a football player want to be in.

"This is one of them and things that I just happened to get it. He will go far anyway, it's just a matter of time. The time is always the master.

"I'm sorry for what happened, especially for fans who were far this season.

"Hopefully, it will never happen again. This is not a position I have to be in. I'm so passionate, I like to do football and I love to work for Stoke City Football. Nevertheless, it is for the club. "
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

2008-12-31T11:28:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 31 December 2008 )

English Premiership football News

Given will not be sold - Kinnear
Newcastle manager Joe Kinnear insists goalkeeper Shay Given will not leave St James' Park in January.

In recent weeks, Arsenal and Tottenham have both been linked with a transfer window move for 32 years.

But The Journal Kinnear said: "I will not leave - he has no interest in whatsoever. He likes football club.

"It was part of the city and that suits us because it is a world-class goalkeeper. He is very happy here, it is very comfortable at Newcastle United."

Given the speculation surrounding the future of the increase, having produced a magnificent series win over the Magpie 5 -1 defeat to Liverpool on Sunday.

This performance has led to hail Kinnear the Republic of Ireland international as the best goalkeeper in the Fa Barclaycard Premiership.

"Shay the performance against Liverpool was brilliant and has picked up on," said Kinnear.

"But ask the Geordie fans, and I think they already knew how good he is. They know their football, to be one of their favorites, everything is good about the way it is.

"It is the best goalkeeper in the Premier League by a mile."

Newcastle have strengths in the goalkeeping position, because with long-term deputy Steve Harper is currently in discussions on a new contract.

However, Kinnear is determined to keep its best players, including England striker Michael Owen whose contract expires during the summer, as he tries to steer the club away from the lower half of the table.
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

2008-12-30T11:02:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 30 December 2008 )

English Premiership football News

Charged Gerrard offered support
England football Liverpool and Steven Gerrard was charged with assault and affray after a disturbance at a nightclub Merseyside.

Liverpool Football Club issued a statement saying that Gerrard offer "all the support he needs."

The 28-year-old was arrested with five other men near the hotel in Southport Lounge in the early hours of Monday.

At 34, the man was taken to hospital with facial injuries after the alleged incident.

The football club said: "Steven has been an outstanding servant of Liverpool in the last 10 years and the club will give him all the support he needs at this time."

The Football Association said it would not make a comment on the case other than Steven Gerrard to stress that his position with England was not under question.

She added that the players continue to be considered for England while police investigations were under way with their situation reviewed on a case by case are to be found guilty of a serious criminal offense.

John Doran, 29, and Ian Smith, 19, both from Huyton, Liverpool, were also charged with the incident and dance.

All three seem to North Sefton Magistrates' Court on January 23, charged with assault with bodily harm and affray.

Three other men were released from police bail pending further information.

In a statement, a spokesman for Merseyside Police said: "Merseyside Police has accused Steven Gerrard, 28, from Formby, Sefton, John Doran, 29, and Ian Smith, 19, both from Huyton, Liverpool, with the wounding and affray following an incident in bold letters in the Southport Street in the early hours of Monday, Dec. 29. "

After The Game on Sunday, the captain of Liverpool FC, who scored twice, Haile his side as the best that I played in.

Gerrard has been capped 70 times by England captain and his country four times.

He was appointed MBE last year and received an honorary fellowship from Liverpool John Moores University.
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

2008-12-30T10:58:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 30 December 2008 )

English Premiership football News

Agger keen to commit to Liverpool
Daniel Agger Liverpool defend reiterated that he wants to stay at Anfield beyond the end of his current contract, which has 18 months to run.

The 24 years, Danish International, a £ 5.8m signing from Brondby in 2006, has been linked both moves to AC Milan and Real Madrid.

The possibility to stay with Rafa Benitez's side Agger, said: "I hope so, I speak to the club about my contract.

"I do not let them talk and I can do on the ground instead."

Agger missed most of last season with an injury METATARSAL.

He then found his opportunities limited at the beginning of the current campaign due to the good form of Martin Skrtel and Jamie Carragher.

Slovakian Skrtel after the International knee injury at Manchester City in October, Agger has restored itself as part of the Reds' first choice backline.

Agger has now made 17 appearances and score a goal for Liverpool this season and said he is keen to continue his career with the Reds:

"Of course I want to stay if possible. As I said the club looks after my contract talks and we will take from there."
by bbcnews.

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

2008-12-30T10:49:00.000-08:00

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 30 December 2008 )

English Premiership football News

Belhadj earns Portsmouth contract
Portsmouth have signed defend Nadir Belhadj on a permanent contract after a successful loan spell at Fratton Park.

The 26 years Algeria has signed a four and half year deal after Pompey agreed a fee of £ 4.4m for French club Lens.

Manager Tony Adams told the Portsmouth website: "I am delighted to have obtained Nadir as a signature - this is an excellent acquisition for the club.

"He has great pace and energy and is an excellent cross the ball, too."

As shines in defense, Belhadj also scored twice in his 23 appearances so far this season.

Adams added: "Even Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger said his ability to spring from defense to attack so quickly.

"For now, he plays left back and developing a good relationship with Niko Kranjčar, but I can also play left midfield."
by bbcnews.

English Premiership football News

Drogba lost his football passion
Côte d'Ivoire and Chelsea Striker Didier Drogba grant, he started this season with some passion for football.

"This summer, I had no head for football, I completely lost the fire" he told France Football magazine.

"I felt completely extinguisher. For the first time in my career, I lost the passion for football. I was lost."

Drogba, 30, also said he understood why the Premier League top scorer Nicolas Anelka has been starting games in front of him, leaving him to start on the bench.
"For the moment, I can only remain silent," he added.

"It's not because I have been here for over four years that I have the right to make requests to be in the starting line-up.

"Currently, there is a guy who is hot and racking up goals. I have to wait my turn. "
But Drogba has suggested that Chelsea manager Luiz Felipe Scolari pair him with Anelka in attack more often.

"I always said that I was happy that Nicolas came to Chelsea but I still can not understand why managers are afraid of us put together," said Didier Drogba.

by bbcnews.