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CARRICK: FANS PLAY A HUGE PART

2009-04-03T05:18:00.001-07:00

Michael Carrick says United are determined to put things right against Aston Villa after opening the title-race door for rivals Liverpool with two straight defeats.

But while it’s down to the players to get the job done on the pitch, the 27-year-old midfielder has called on the Old Trafford faithful to play their part.

“The fans can play a huge part in every game and can pull you through when things aren’t going quite so well. It would be easy for supporters to get a bit frustrated when that's the case, but our fans are always behind us. It gives us a big lift.”

Sir Alex Ferguson's men are still in control at the Barclays Premier League summit, one point clear with a game in hand. But with no points gained in the last two matches, Carrick insists it's vital United get back to winning ways on Sunday.

"We’d gone so long without a league defeat that when it happened it was a bit of a shock to the system, especially when you consider the run we’d been on and how we’d been playing," Michael told United Review.

"But you’re going to lose games through the season, it’s very rare that you don’t. We’ve just got to bounce back; we’ve done it before and we’ll do it again. It’s not a case of changing everything because we’ve lost a couple of matches – we’ve got to focus on doing what we do best and hopefully go on another winning run."

Read the full interview with Michael in Sunday's match programme.

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VIDIC: BRITS ARE BEST

2009-03-20T00:25:00.001-07:00

Nemanja Vidic says the presence of four Barclays Premier League sides in the Champions League draw confirms English football's top-dog status.

United are joined in the quarter-finals by Chelsea, Liverpool and Arsenal for the second year running, with Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Porto and Villarreal taking up the other places in Europe's elite eight.

Serbian defender Vidic is proud to be part of what he describes as 'the best league in the world' and after scoring a crucial goal against Internazionale in the last 16 round, he's determined to help at least one English team reach the Rome final.

"The English sides' performances [in Europe] have shown yet again that the Premier League is the best league in the world," Vidic told Red View.

"To have all four in the quarter-finals again is a big achievement for English football. There's a strong possibility we will play one of the other three in the Champions League, and it will be difficult because they are all top teams.

"It's the small details that will decide who goes through to the next round and we therefore need to give our best against whichever side we play."

Visit ManUtd.com from 11:00 GMT on Friday for Champions League draw news and reaction from players past and present including ex-midfielder Mickey Thomas.

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RYAN GIGS : THIS IS THE ONE

2009-03-13T18:30:00.000-07:00

Ryan Giggs has been involved in 36 previous United-Liverpool battles but he says this one could be the most important one yet.

This fixture already has a kick to it, but with the implications the result could have on the title race there is even more focus on the outcome. Victory on Saturday would put Sir Alex's men ten points clear of Liverpool and Chelsea, while Rafael Benitez's side are desperate to keep their title hopes alive.

"There’s a lot riding on this match," says Giggs in United Review.

"If we win they’ll find it very difficult to catch us, but if they win then they’ll feel they’re right back in the race.

"Liverpool have made great progress this season and have got a lot closer to us than they have been in recent years. They're a strong team and on their day they can beat anyone; not many teams win at the Bernabeu (Real Madrid), after all.

"Saturday's game is massive for both teams. Over the years there have been more important games in terms of the title race – games against Chelsea and Arsenal, perhaps. But I believe the biggest game of the season is always Liverpool.

"This is the game you really know you have to perform in. If you don’t perform, then you won’t win. It’s that simple."

Football Highlights This Weekend!!!

2009-03-01T14:06:00.000-08:00

1. Manchester United win out after the Carling Cup defeat Spurs 4-1 in a penalty compete. Ben is a hero Poster United.

2. From English league, Liverpool The surprising defeat 2-0 from Boro in Reebok Stadium, which will make them more difficult to overtake Manchester United.

Middlesbrough V Liverpool

3. From the Spanish Primera, Barcelona defeat from Atletico Madrid with the score 4-3 . Result they cut the distance with Real Madrid to only 4 points!

4. Inter Milan who play ugly in the first round and missed the 2-0 first, eventually succeeded in holding the score 3-3 with Roma at the Giuseppe Meazza. Marco Balotelli contribute 2 goals in this rivalry.

5. Still from the Serie A, After a failed event in the UEFA Cup, AC Milan again failed to present a victory for the fans. Their defeat 2-1 from Sampdoria in the Italian League.

Ronaldo : Fight like Final Against Inter!!!

2009-02-23T20:44:00.000-08:00

Photo: AFP/File/Franck Fife

Hard work awaits the United's troops in first leg 16th round UEFA Champions league versus Inter Milan tonight!! As the final fight, only two choices: kill or be killed, Ronaldo Says. High optimism perch in the "Red Devil" skuad, to their arrival in Giuseppe Meazza, Wednesday (2/25/2009) tonight. Came as a great addition to endure, Cristiano Ronaldo cs also enjoy the positive trends in the domestic League.

Although this is the first leg and the results of any kind can still be pursued in the second leg in our ground, Ronaldo feel that this is the final fight. "This is a time to kill, or that you killed. Anyone will be Loses from this great competition, and we do not want to lose," believe Ronaldo, (The Sun).

"This rivalry is a difficult, but I think Manchester United are a better team. Inter have many experienced players, but we have many greats players," CR7 says. "This will be a good rivalry, the greatest league in the worlds and the best team will win. I've won Champions League and want to be repeated again," said who has been out of 12 goals in 23 Premiership until this week.

The manager, Alex Ferguson believes can also achieve positive results in the fight against Inter. The reason is that the material has now far more experienced and qualified.

"When we came here two years ago and compete against AC Milan in the semifinal. The players look immature. But he (CR7) is a different player now," said Ferguson. "I want to see the maturity of Ronaldo and all because of the atmosphere and this competition," he closed.

Rafa: Be More Difficult to Pursue United

2009-02-22T15:41:00.000-08:00

Reuters

Equilibration with the results of Manchester City is recognized Rafael Benitez Liverpool have made a struggle to overtake Manchester United so the more difficult. Moreover, MU fight can still win despite playing poorly. Score 1-1 at Anfield, Sunday (2/23/2009), to create 'the Reds' left behind is now seven points behind the' red devil ', which is located in the top English league.

With the remaining 12 parties, and the chase through the middle MU consistently appear not clearly an easy task. But certainly also not possible. "Clearly, it is so much more difficult. We have to win the opponent Middlesbrough and Sunderland, and then start thinking about victory at Old Trafford," said Benitez on the Liverpool website.

"I'm confident we can beat Middlesbrough and Sunderland, and the situation may be different. Not easy because United can win the match without good playing, but there is still 12 weeks to fight. You can not have an ending." "It is clear that if we want to cut the distance we have to win our next parties and then subjected the United," Benitez firm.

Madrid Biggest Victory in This Season!!!

2009-02-21T14:35:00.000-08:00

Real Madrid continue to strengthen with distance Barcelona. Santiago Bernabeu on Sunday (2/22/2009), Los Merengues appear when the craze winner against Real Betis with a score of 6-1. This is the biggest victory this season as long as Madrid last week after also winning their telak with the score 4-0 when the visit to Sporting Gijon. But a more important goal of the festival is the approach distance with Barcelona at the top of LA LIGA.

The benefit fact is the Los Merengues looses against Espanyol in derby Catalan with the score 1-2. Results that make a difference in the points both teams struggling Spanish league champion title to only seven points. Madrid victory six goals all came in the first round. Gonzalo Higuain in the opening parade goal seven minutes and two goals followed Huntelaar. Sergio Ramos before print cover goals, Raul Gonzalez added two other goals. While the puppet team only goal came from the front kick distance Ricardo Oliveira.

LA LIGA Result This Week

2009-02-21T14:12:00.000-08:00

image : Skysports.com

Struggling Espanyol stunned Catalan derby rivals Barcelona 2-1 to condemn the Primera Liga leaders to their first defeat since the end of August.

Espanyol sat bottom of the table ahead of kick-off, but a five-minute second-half brace from former Barca player Ivan De la Pena proved too much for their hosts - who could only respond through Yaya Toure - at the Camp Nou.

The first half had been a typically robust affair between two local rivals and Seydou Keita was shown a straight red card after 38 minutes.

Five minutes after the interval Espanyol - who had not won since November - made their numerical advantage count as De la Pena headed past Victor Valdes.

The Barca goalkeeper then endured a horrible moment in the 55th minute as he dallied on the ball before scuffing his kick straight to De la Pena and the Espanyol hero duly chipped in his second of the match.

Toure set up a tense finish with a well-taken strike on 63 minutes, but Pep Guardiola's Barca - who last lost in the league against Numancia 22 games ago - could not find an equaliser.

Real Madrid have, therefore, closed the gap at the top of the table to seven points after thumping Real Betis 6-1 at the Bernabeu.

All the goals came in the first half in the Spanish capital as Juande Ramos' side sent an ominous warning to Liverpool ahead of their UEFA Champions League last 16 meeting.

Gonzalo Higuain opened the scoring in the seventh minute, before Klaas Jan-Huntelaar (15 and 24) and Raul (36 and 42) both hit braces, while Real Betis raised hope with a solitary Ricardo Oliveira strike sandwiched in between on the half-hour-mark.

Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos wrapped up the scoring on the stroke of half-time as his side strolled to their ninth successive league victory.

Villarreal have climbed to fourth after defeating Sporting Gijon 2-1 at El Madrigal.

The match started in explosive fashion as Mate Bilic put Sporting in front inside the first minute, but former Arsenal star Robert Pires responded 60 seconds later.

Joan Capdevila then scored the winner nine minutes before the break as Villarreal - who are readying themselves for a Champions League tie with Panathinaikos - secured the win.

Via : Skysports.com

Inter Valuable Victory Against Bologna

2009-02-21T13:03:00.000-08:00

Reuters.

Inter Milan while firmly in the top of the Serie A for the 2-1 win against Bologna. Two goal victory Nerazzurri came from Esteban Cambiasso and Mario Balotelli. Three additional points to make Inter has now collected 59 points from 25 fight that has been passed. Nerazzurri winning 12 points over Juventus in the second position and led the 14-digit AC Milan in the top three positions. Although the distance is still possible to come back because the Bianconeri and Rossoneri have not make it to this weekend.

Inter lead the first time through Esteban Cambiasso fight tread 57 minutes, although it is then when the fight Miguel Britos remaining 11 minutes. Mario Balotelli is a determination that the team victory with the her goal in 82 minutes. This victory is also a thin stock valuable for Inter against Manchester United in the Champions league next weekend.

United Beat Blackburn 2-1

2009-02-21T12:58:00.000-08:00

AFP/Glyn Kirk

Manchester United should be trying hard to beat Blackburn Rovers. Finally, Cristiano Ronaldo free kick ensure 'the Red Devil' 2-1 win. Blackburn is now sitting in the Primer Liga 18 ratings provide resistance to the MU tight act that has hosted at Old Trafford, Sunday (2/22/2009).

MU actually winning kick through the first Wayne Rooney, but Blackburn successfully bring the score 1-1 through a Roque Santa Cruz. However, Ronaldo eventually be savior host. Take this victory for MU while so far pursuit of Liverpool. With 62 points, the united position is secure enough with the winner eight points. Liverpool will pay a visit to the headquarters Manchester City, Sunday (2 / 22).

FOCUS ON WAYNE ROONEY

2009-02-20T09:38:00.000-08:00

Wazza wasted no time on his return from injury, scoring with his first touch against Fulham. Frank Stapleton assesses how important he'll be in the coming months...

Wayne Rooney is on the cusp of his peak years, but former Red Frank Stapleton says the best is still to come from United’s talismanic front man. Until his hamstring injury sustained after scoring the winner against Wigan in January, Rooney was instrumental for the Reds with his increasingly mature displays.

“When he first joined United people had high expectations, but he was far from the finished article,” says Stapleton. “Playing with other great players has developed his game. His work-rate is incredible, which is a joy for any manager.”

It’s his threat in the final third, however, that United will really benefit from in the crucial final months of the campaign. Stapleton is confident that Rooney is fresh for the challenges that lie ahead. “You always miss a player of Rooney’s quality, but the manager has been superb in the way he’s worked the squad,” Stapleton says. “Rotation is part of football in the modern era, and as United begin the title and Champions League run-in, it will hopefully pay dividends.”

Rooney could even be sharper because of his spell on the sidelines. It’s a terrifying prospect for United’s rivals, as is Stapleton’s assessment that Wayne could still get better. “He's still only 23, something people forget because he’s been around for so long,” says the Irishman. “He’s really important to United now but, who knows, it could be another two years before we see him at his absolute peak.”

TEVEZ: WE'RE SIMPLY THE BEST

2009-02-20T09:31:00.000-08:00

Victory against Fulham on Wednesday took the Reds five points clear in the league. And with a Carling Cup final, FA Cup sixth round clash and Champions League ties with Inter Milan looming, confidence is sky-high in the United camp.

“We have the best team in the world at the moment,” says Carlos Tevez. “One of the reasons for that is the options available to Sir Alex Ferguson. We have players who can come in at any moment and make a difference. That’s the reason we’re still fighting on all four fronts.”

Despite United’s strength in depth, it’s not all been plain sailing. The Reds have had to battle hard for results, with nine league games ending in 1-0 victories this season. It’s going to be tough again on Saturday against Sam Allardyce’s Blackburn Rovers, who are fighting to retain their Premier League status.

“There are no easy games,” Tevez admits. “Every game is difficult and every player who turns out against United gives their all against the best team in the world. It’s their chance to shine and to prove themselves.”

Sir Alex's men may not have been banging in the goals recently, but one is enough so long as you don’t concede. And United haven’t let in a league goal for almost 22 hours, a run that's comprised 14 consecutive clean sheets. “Our defence is amazing,” Carlos adds. “It’s the safest defence in the world but it’s down to everyone in the team. The midfielders and the forwards all battle to win the ball back.”

UNITED WILL Champion ALERTS after beat fulham 3-0 in Old Trafford

2009-02-18T14:42:00.001-08:00

AFP/Andrew Yates

Man Utd 3 - 0 Fulham

Scholes 12
Berbatov 30
Rooney 63

Manchester United do not find it difficult to beat Fulham with a 3-0 score. This victory also take 'The Red devil' winning five points from Liverpool. The match that was held in Old Trafford, on Thursday (2/19/2009), is the 25 matches of United in English premiership, and while they are in the top English Premier league. United goal victory each by Scholes on 12 minutes, berbatov in 30 minutes and Rooney on 63 minutes. With the victory it is difficult for Liverpool to overtake the United wrest the title of champion in the English league this year.

Ac Milan feel successfully to get The Spice Boy

2009-02-18T14:16:00.001-08:00

Reuters

AC Milan who have not surrendered at the David Beckham will tell utusannya send to Los Angeles this weekend. If successful, Rosoneri want to tie up to the stars in 2010. After the first offer was declined and failed to meet the deadline given to LA Galaxy to submit a second proposal, Milan are still trying to get Beckham. Rossoneri through the Director, Umberto Gandini, the tell will fly to Los Angeles on Thursday (2/19/2009) to do the advanced approach.

The lobby results concerning is of course still have to wait for the agreement to be reached. However, if you can get it right, Diavolo Rosso want Beckham until 2010.

"We hope Beckham can be contracted at least until 30 June 2010," said a source from Milan, made as Reuters.

Beckham Galaxy purchased from Real Madrid in 2007 ago now is still bound to the contract in 2012.

Media in the United States and Europe said that LA Galaxy Beckham determine the price of about U.S. $ 10 million to U.S. $ 15 million. Meanwhile, Milan are also installing a half-price limit is 33 years in the range of U.S. $ 8 million, the high U.S. $ 10 million.

Ac Milan Management is very confident and feel successfully to get The Spice Boy. "Indeed, there is little difference, but on Friday will have a decision concerning the fate Beckham," Milan vice president Adriano Galliani said.

"The hope that can survive. But we will see how the development of the next," said Galliani.

Nerazzurri Re di Milano!!!

2009-02-15T13:45:00.000-08:00

image source : www.goal.com

Finally Milan accept defeat in the derby bout last night, with the score 2-1. Fight is in progress is hard won through two Inter goal on the first phase through Adriano on 30 minutes and Dejan Stankovic on 43 minutes. While Milan is only able to reply to one goal on 73 minutes to by Pato. These results make the Inter memuncaki klasmen while italy league with 56 points, nine points from winning the competition terdekatnya Juventus. Ac milan is in your own position with a value of 3 to 45. Thus, the Inter close to the title of champion in this season.

Juventus failed stuck Inter Milan

2009-02-15T10:51:00.000-08:00

Amauri: On target for Juve

image : Skysports.com

Results series 1-1 and again to make Juventus Sampdoria Inter Milan failed to stick. However allenatore Juve says Claudio Ranieri is not disappointed with one additional point.

In the fight that took place in the Stadium Olimpico Turin, Sunday (15/2/2009), the Juve left behind through the first goal before Giampaolo Pazzini Carvalho Amauri make the same strong position 1-1.

In addition to the rearguard Reliability Sampdoria, Juve can be spelled out of luck. A number of golden opportunity that Alessandro Del Piero et al. failed due to hit the pillar of any rule or hurdle.

"When you have many opportunities and that goal does not bear fruit, then the risk of defeat threats. We have been doing a good action to secure the points," said Ranieri made as Channel4.

"It is time once I see the children I care creates many opportunities, but the goal does not bear fruit. Sometimes things go as you wish, sometimes not," continued Ranieri.

"We succeeded in getting points, and the players have been playing very well. So I ask for more. (Sebastian) Giovinco appear better, but I have no alternative to the line attacker. I can not criticize the players," added former Chelsea coach is .

Juventus endured in the ranking of two, a deficit of six points from Inter. Even if Inter lose from AC Milan in the Derby della Madonina today, La Vecchia Signora are still to be fought very hard to try to wrest the title of champion Series A.

"In the future, we must always reach the full points and hope the team competition to get bad results," said coach aged 57 this year. We must keep thinking positive, especially for us last weekend-and the crucial Champions League has started scrolling again, "he said.

Everton beat Aston Villa and go to the sixth round FA Cup.

2009-02-15T10:38:00.000-08:00

Reuters

Adventure Gareth Barry and his friends must be stopped in the fifth round after defeated Everton 1-3, Sunday (15/2/2009). Third goal victory at Goodison Park Everton packed by Jack Rodwell, penalty from Mikel Arteta and from Tim Cahill. The only goal The Villans made in the name of James Millner through penalty. Rivalry has been running for four minutes, the public host directly touchdown cheer the arrival of players are aged 17 years, Jack Rodwell.

This goal was a corner kick from Arteta removed. Cahill then horn ball to the wicket. Stilian Petrov had a circular drive away the skin, but with a sprightly Rodwell steal the ball to be a goal. This is the first goal for the Rodwell for Everton. However, Everton only excitement was four minutes. Referee award for the Villa penalty after Tony Hibbert throw Gabriel Agbonlahor in the area off-limits. The execution of James Milner to make a successful team scores equate guests.

In the 24th minutes, re-appointed referee white dots. This time for the host. Everton get the prize backlash after twelve fit Steve Sidwell throw Victor Anichebe in the penalty box. Execution of Arteta been successfully brought Everton lead 2-1. In the second phase, Villa have a chance, precisely in the minutes to-65. The business forward John Carew Milner forage can still be saved by Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard. In the middle of the business to follow behind, children, foster Martin O'Neill is again penetrated. Everton third goal through Cahill was born in the 76th minutes.

Anticipate the failure of Curtis Davies to make the ball cross-Anichebe round the skin obtained by Cahill. Australia is the origin and then release the right foot with the kick to Friedel horrible hurdle for third time. 3-1 score stand up to be pronounced final whistle. Results The Toffees for a pass to the sixth round FA Cup.

Adrian Mutu delivered Fiorenrina with a hat-trick

2009-02-15T10:20:00.000-08:00

AFP

Another player who records hat-tricks on sunday this is Adrian Mutu, Fiorentina striker Romanian nationality. Anelka on Saturday yesterday brought Chelsea Watford winning the top three in the printed score that brings the blues go to the next round in the FA Cup. This time Adrian Mutu appear very good position to see off Fiorentina Klasemen while four league italy. Three goals in each forged it in print in 60 minutes through a penalty, and last 80 minutes during the injury time.

Title fight in the cage in Genoa was very exciting, even behind Fiorentina had the first goal in a print by Motta on 12 minutes to, Palladino in 38 minutes, and the penalty Diego milito in 55 minutes. Fiorentina results make a winning number on the Genoa, with a value of 41, while Genoa itself is just below Fiorentina, with a value of 40.

Anelka becomes chelsea hero with three goals against Watford

2009-02-14T13:30:00.001-08:00

Anelka: Hat-trick hero

image :Skysports.com

Chelsea successfully overcome Watford and advanced to the tournament's sixth round FA Cup. Thanks to the three goals that made Nicolas Anelka, quoting The Blues 3-1 victory. Attacker is a French international stars thanks to a hat-trick in 15 minutes to print the last, after opening the score through Watford Tamas Priskin kick in 69 minutes in a fight at Vicarage Road, Sunday (15/2/2009).

Throughout the match that Chelsea appear to players essentially appear dominant. However, from a number of opportunities available in the first round, does not bear any one goal. While still controlling the game and intensive attack, an attack behind the host make Chelsea penetration. Priskin pass Offside trap and he is quite liberal with the subject's goalkeeper Petr Cech in the contact penalty.

Do not want to bear the shame, let alone witnessed club owner Roman Abramovich and manager Guus Hiddink in the new VIP stand, Chelsea increasing waves of attacks. Anelka and become heroes. In 75 minutes, from a corner kick, kick it to Soriano to make the left foot position. Two minutes intermittent, cooperation from Didier Drogba and Ashley Cole, Chelsea brought it turned to lead. Cole disundulnya cross the ball perfectly into the goalpost Scott Loach. In 75 minutes, from a corner kick, kick it to Soriano to make the left foot position. Two minutes intermittent, cooperation from Didier Drogba and Ashley Cole, Chelsea brought it turned to lead.

Second goal is likely to make a direct Watford "killed". They look down and then penetrated one of the goals in the match. Anelka perfect rush through Salomon Kalou shot that is not even able to intersect back and stopped the opponent goalkeeper.

Victory over division one team in the hierarchy of the UEFA Champions League (division championship) to be positive after the early era of Luiz Felipe Scolari completed. On this rivalry ditukangi Chelsea assistant manager Ray Wilkins, while waiting on Hiddink debut in the Premiership next weekend against Aston Villa

Trapattoni: Milan win at Derby della Madonnina, but Inter be a Scudetto!!

2009-02-13T22:14:00.001-08:00

AC Milan will again predicted wins at derby della madonnina end of this weekend. However they still will not be able to reach the scudetto will crumple Inter Milan.

Therefore the statement that said the former Inter coach, Giovanni Trapattoni. Unlike the comments of Luigi Simoni "require" so that Inter can win Serie A, Trapattoni predict Inter will be subdued in the Milan Derby.

"Derby is a special fight, and Milan will come out as winners," said the man who called Mr.Trap is familiar to the La Gazzetta dello Sport, as quoted from the Goal. "Milan have players that are more creative and talented. Milan at this time to a degree similar to that by the Milan Arrigo Saachi," added Trapattoni.

Even though I predict Rossonerri will beat inter, which means that the close distance between the two teams, Mr. Trap not sure if Carlo Ancelotti teams will be completed in the season and reach the top position scudetto title.

"I remind Milan Derby on Derby Turin, where Torino always win at the end of the season while Juventus scudetto reach. I still believe that Inter is the team is strong and will reach Scudetto," said the man who now practice this Irish national team.

"Now Inter have the power and the extraordinary determinasi. I really like Inter," said Trapattoni of La handled during Beneamata, presents a degree of success scudetto (1988/89) and the League Cup (1990/91)

ROONEY A DOUBT, BUT TRIO RETURN

2009-02-13T19:21:00.001-08:00

Rio Ferdinand, Patrice Evra and Jonny Evans are all in
contention for Sunday's FA Cup tie at Derby, but Wayne Rooney remains a
doubt with a hamstring strain.

Ferdinand missed
England's defeat against Spain in midweek through illness, but is
expected to recover for the visit to Pride Park. Evra is now over the
foot injury he sustained in the win over Chelsea in January, while
Jonny Evans has shaken off an ankle knock picked up in the Carling Cup
semi-final win over Derby last month.

“There are a couple of days to go before the game yet, but Jonny
and Patrice are training and they’re both OK," said Reds assistant boss
Mike Phelan. “Rio was feeling better when he came in on Thursday. He
didn’t train, but he should be fine."

Phelan chaired Friday's
press conference as Sir Alex Ferguson attended a family funeral. The
boss' right-hand man also confirmed that the club's medical staff are
continuing to monitor Wayne Rooney's return from a hamstring problem.
The striker hasn't featured since hobbling out of the 1-0 win over
Wigan on 14 January, and Phelan insists he would be eased back into
action.

“We’re still assessing Wayne," he said. "He’s done a little bit of
work but we’re not going to rush him. We have some big games coming up,
so we’ll ease him back in. We’ll do that as quickly as we can, but we
won’t jeopardise his fitness. If he's not ready for Sunday then we'll
look at the next game against Fulham."

The spirit of La Vecchia Signora

2009-02-08T10:46:00.001-08:00

(AFP/Marcello Paternostro)

After swallow defeat twice in the last two weekends, Juventus return to the path that should knock after Catania 2-1, through hard struggle until the end of the first matche. Juventus winning goal through Vincenzo Iaquinta in the 11th minutes , prior to equated by Takayuki Morimoto in second round. Playing with ten men because Iaquinta referee expelled in 12th minutes, the spirit of go-weary "la vecchia signora" finally work out when Christian Poulsen print the last goal at the end of the match-time. This victory was excited by Claudio Ranieri. He considers this case not just the three figures, but also the beginning of Juve after successive

defeated again Udinese (1-2) and Cagliari (2-3).

UNITED BACK TO THE TOP!!!

2009-02-08T10:36:00.001-08:00

Giggs (left) is congratulated by Ronaldo after his goal at West Ham
photo : http://news.bbc.co.uk

Top position of premier league again seized by United, After the match at Upton Park beat West ham United, MU went home with three digits to the 1-0 victory.

Additional full points, on Monday (2/9/2009), which present a single goal through Ryan Giggs make the United now collect the results from number 56 fight 24. United is back to the top position in Primer league table, previously occupied Liverpool with 54 points from 25 fight.

Score 1-0 to United first victory itself is a 'Red Devil' over West Ham at Upton Park since november 27th 2005. Fight in the two quarters after West Ham victory is always ended with a defeat for MU.

draw in London Derby: Spurs 0 - 0 Arsenal

2009-02-08T09:05:00.001-08:00

The arsenal of Ten-man accepted a priceless point of view starting from the white lane of stag Sunday in a play which was articulated three minutes of first half of the year.

The meeting was animated but of level to Juste after half an hour. However, first Emmanuel Adebayor stretchered with far 33 minutes and then Emmanuel Eboue were sent to far on 36 after reception of its second yellow chart. These losses would have an immediate and durable impact on the play.

Tottenham dominated for the remainder of first half and opening 25 minutes of the second. However, a solved arsenal most narrowly had suddenly stolen the points when the song of Alex slipped a projectile with far from with end carrying 20 minutes of time and Nicklas Bendtner saw its more tilted projectile with death. Although Luka Modric could have gained the play for the side at the house with almost the last give a kick of the play.

While Tottenham celebrated in an extravagant way after the profit of a little probable at the stage of Emirates, in fact the ventilators of arsenal take the majority of this aspiration.

They remain in contact with the fourth Chelsea place and preserved a pleasant disc. Tottenham did not beat the arsenal in League first since November 1999 - which is now 19 plays.

Wenger spouted out an important surprise in front of the play by calling Eduardo on the bench. It was 350 days since the Croat had broken his leg so much terribly in Birmingham. Even the most pitiless ventilator of Tottenham would have been happy to see it behind.

Arshavin also started like substitute product. The Russian had signed for the arsenal Tuesday then controlled behind at the house to obtain his work permit. The bad weather had forced it reroutent via Germany. That, and only 10 days of pre-season at Zenit St Petersburg, meant it would be employed only once necessary this afternoon.

Elsewhere there were two changes. The song replaced Abou suspended and wounded Diaby while Robin van Persie entered for Bendtner.

His strike the associate, Adebayor, made his aspect of 100 League ministers.

Tottenham had made their own news principal signature, Robbie Keane, the day of deadline. Astonishing, the director Harry Redknapp had named the Irishman because captain right after it had put the pen to pack up.

He only added to an atmosphere of detonator for this beginning of lunching of Sunday. Naturally, the semi-official championship of London of north was a stake. But the two sides were also in danger of the losing statute of long time - the arsenal as a club of Champions League, Tottenham as a club first of League.

It is impossible so that this play is of no importance but this one was more important than the majority.

Tottenham had the pressure early but the arsenal had the first sight of the goal. Sweep exchanged passages with Van Persie and the Man from the Ivory Coast led an exploratory projectile through the face of the goal. Any kind of contact would have given to the visitors the wire.

Aaron Lennon and Wilson Palacios forced Manuel Almunia in the action in the moments which followed.

But the arsenal seemed sparky. In the 13th minute, Sweeps, their influence of more luminous attack, had the ball in the net but the senior of Mike of referee correctly allocated 25 years to have thorough Jonathan Woodgate in the preparing.

Roman Pavlyuchenko provided an immediate response by sending instantaneous above the bar. Then Michael Dawson inclined the head with far from Luka Modric of left free-give a kick.

The small Croat started to exert an influence starting from the side. Its ball of raking sent the free space of Lennon but the former winger of Leeds fired his projectile with far from the post.

Half an hour, Almunia plunged integral to turn far its projectile.

The play started to open. Nasri Corluka covered with a dress on the byline but the dangerous ball of Clichy towards Adebayor was released. Before all this Cudicini the low cross of Toure in the middle of the sector had reversed.

In spite of their positions enormously different of league, the sides seemed also matched this afternoon. They were the two openings of research if possible but their defenses were hardly impermeable with water.

However the subjects changed for the arsenal clearly within three minutes right after half an hour. In the thirty-third minute, Adebayor drew upwards with damage, on the face of him a problem of hamstring, and stretchered with far. The incident occurred remote side of launching thus the thrust was carried around the perimeter of the ground.

Almost immediately, Eboue was opposed with Modric. The two players received the yellow charts however which it was the second for the player of the medium ground of arsenal. It had received its first reservation in the 17th minute for dissidence.

The two men descended the tunnel in seconds from another. The arsenal were wounded and Tottenham went for the setting to died before part-time. In the spite of the pressure, narrowest that they came was when Almunia inclined above an ordering of time of damage of Palacios.

At least part-time the time of Wenger gave to arrange its side and to formulate a plan. He chose one 4-3-1-1 with Van Persie playing a role withdrawn behind Bendtner but deriving inside on the side on the left. It was all Wenger could make but it made little for stymy Tottenham right after the interval.

In the minutes of opening, Pavlyuchenko benefitted from the slip of Toure but put the fire in an extravagant way above the bar.

56 minutes, the beautiful ball of Lennon inside of the right-hand side was tilted the head more from Keane with beaten Almunia.�Tottenham were sinister in the order. The arsenal were on the back foot and to just hope to see the storm outside.

Van Persie put fire at far from a corner in the sixty-sixth minute. It was a decent chance but was to them little of brass band of the visitors, their principal work defended at present.

That known as, three minutes later a not marked song miscued inches of a projectile broad of corner of Van Persie' S. It was perhaps the clearest possibility of the play up to now and, in the circumstances, of one that the arsenal could not be allowed to miss.

Keane drew a flight with far from the distance but Tottenham had lost their edge. The arsenal were reinforcing and scratching their manner at a point. The whole team used long casings today but metaphorical they were rolled up.

Tottenham steeled for a frantic final. As they needed him, the arsenal received another blow, literally, when Clichy opposed heads with Darren folded and to far was matched with the blood running of a wound.

Full-time approximate felt you the drama was not finished. It was not.

The wild ordering of Bendtner was more tilted from Cudicini with the close post and, of the corner, Tottenham broke. Adel Taarabt fed Modric of the right-sided but the Croat was denied by extending except Almunia.

Like Emirates, it was an aspiration but hardly even honours.

Real Madrid straight victory

2009-02-07T15:37:00.001-08:00

Los madridistas sólo han recibido un tanto en los últimos siete encuentros

Real Madrid took their seventh right victory against packing Santander with thanks of stage of Santiago Bernabeu to Higuain and a very full defense. The Argentinian one took its 13th strike of league and the defensive line did not concede any goal. Iker Casillas played its 454th dissension with the team.

The force of Real Madrid the 'defense of S starts to be primordially; they are marked on the team in the league up to now in 2009, conceding only one goal in their last seven plays. They worked hard to defend against the packing, which had gained five plays as a side of visit and marked more goals of the prepared blows than any other team in the championship.

Packing did much pressure on Real Madrid as of the beginning and looked at to astonish them in the attack by Lacen and Colsa 'work by S in the central zones. Conscious owing to the fact that this would occur, Juande aligned the girl, Van de Vaart and Sneijder in the central zones. Rafael was used the team the 'chance as S first with free-give a kick this Ramos finished, but the defender 'the wasn of projectile of shoot on the target (10 ').

The girl became increasingly important grace to her wise distribution of the ball; its adversaries could not do anything to stop it. Its excellent work made it possible the team to have three consecutive dangerous companies in the attack (12 '). Dutch ahead served a cross in the box which did not find anybody to finish it. The Tono guard then gave off a strong projectile with him with the right foot. In conclusion, Sneijder passed the ball to Van der Vaart, whose lob was released by the guard. Raul also had a chance in the final minutes of first half when a heading with him missed the mark per inches.

Points of Higuain; Faubert makes the beginning
That only took in Higuain three minutes in second half to mark the team the 'goal of S. It made the great use of a help been useful by Raul with her head and Tono beat with a cross projectile. Packing seemed to be in a state of shock and of Real Madrid employed this to try to mark another strike. Pepe astonished the visitors with a powerful sprint. It passed the ball to Higuain, which drew on the target still, but Tono released the ball with its good leg. The Muniz trainer was forced to replace Lacen and Tchite by morals and Luccin de Toni.

Faubert has advanced for Robben because Juande wanted to try to astonish packing in bottom by the right-hand side. Javi Garcia and Marcelo have also advanced. In the final analysis, Real Madrid gained their seventh right victory, no doubt the best present for Iker Casillas, which caught up with today with its idol Paco Buyo by playing its 454th play with the first team.

REGGINA HOLD ROSSONERI

2009-02-07T15:21:00.001-08:00

Beckham - looking to impress.

AC Milan go into Saturday's game against Reggina at the San Siro fully expecting to claim the win that will keep the pressure on defending champions Inter Milan at the top of Serie A.

The Rossoneri go into the clash inspired by Sunday's 3-0 triumph at Lazio, which saw them step up their Scudetto bid.

The victory meant Carlo Ancelotti's side leapfrogged Juventus after the Turin giants lost 3-2 against Cagliari and saw them cut the deficit to leaders Inter to six points.

With just one point separating the Rossoneri from Juve, and Milan facing their biggest test next weekend in the derby against Inter, Ancelotti's men need no reminder of the importance of taking three points this weekend.

"We must take advantage of our good form to win and give continuity to our play," said Ancelotti.

"Reggina on paper seem an easier rival than others but there are no easy games at this point of the season.

"We want to reduce our deficit with the league leaders."

The Rossoneri, who are without suspended midfielder Andrea Pirlo, will be hoping England midfielder David Beckham can keep up his impressive form.

Beckham set up the the opening two goals in the victory at Lazio and Milan are set to begin negotiations with the Los Angeles Galaxy to keep the on-loan player at the San Siro until the end of the season.

"I think Beckham will give a big contribution to our Scudetto ambitions," claimed Ancelotti.

The Milan boss also expects Brazil duo Alexandre Pato and Kaka to continue their scoring form, with each player having scored 10 goals apiece so far this campaign.

"Pato and Kaka are playing really well," said Ancelotti.

"They are going through a good spell while giving the team creativity and speed up front."

After losing their opening three games of the year, Reggina have showed some improvement of late.

NERAZZURRI WINS AGAIN..........

2009-02-07T13:06:00.001-08:00

LECCE - Zlatan Ibrahimovic marked its seventeenth drank season, Luis Figo seized its first, and Dejan Stankovic obtained its quarter as inter unrestrained passed in strong gale to a victory 3-0 over Lecce at Stadio Via del Mare.

The victory crushing mill sees inter opening a provisional advance of nine-point to the table runner with A.C. Milan and Juventus to always play their Series of the assemblies per week 23.

Jose Mourinho set up a formation of Christmas tree to deal with Beretta with 's Giallorossi, with David Santon making its fifth consecutive beginning at left postpones and Materazzi turning over of the damage for its first beginning since the last voyage from December 'of S Champions League in Bremen.

The Muntari petty thief of player of the medium ground is turned over beside Zanetti and of Cambiasso after a prohibition of a-match, with Figo and Stankovic behind only obstinate Ibrahimovic.

Inter took the play with Lecce and Ibrahimovic had a chance early before Stankovic moved more of to bearing end.

Ibra gave to its team a deserved advance 12 minutes when it ordered Cambiasso 'passage crossing intelligent of S and put fire in the lower left corner.

Lecce went close to an equalizer in 18th, Stendardo rising at the bottom post to direct in bottom a heading towards the post of target at the bottom which forced a safe reflex of Julio Cesar.

Cambiasso examined Benussi before Ibrahimovic broke with far starting from the edge of the sector while Nerazzurri created good lucks build on their wire before the cut.

It was one-way traffic with via del Mare after restarting and Maicon incredibly flamed more, minutes before Stankovic was thwarted by Benussi.

Lecce 'single reaction of S were a movement solo by their Papadopoulos substitute who met by chance Julio Cesar after jinking last Cambiasso, Maicon and Burdisso.

With eighteen minutes left on the Figo clock found the good corner lower with a heading effleur� elegant of Santon 'of cross of specific left of S.

Stankovic celebrated its 200th walk for inter perfect mode, inclining the head Maicon 'cross of S in the higher left corner to achieve the rout 82 minutes.

Lecce 0-3 inter (HT: 0-1)

Markers: Ibrahimovic 37, Figo 72, Stankovic 82.

Lecce: 99 Benussi; 3 Polenghi, 2 Stendardo, 14 Fabiano, 16 Esposito; 10 Caserta, 4 Edinho (81 Papadopoulos 66), 19 Ariatti; 35 dad Waigo (7 Zanchetta 58), 11 Castillo, 90 Tiribocchi (9 Cacia 69).
Submarines not used: 1 Rosati, 6 Angelo, 21 Ardito, 40 Giuliatto.
Trainer: Mario Beretta.

Inter: 12 Julio Cesar; 13 Maicon, 16 Burdisso, 23 Materazzi, 39 Santon; 4 Zanetti, 19 Cambiasso, 20 Muntari (6 Maxwell 81); 7 Figo (26 Chivu 73), 5 Stankovic; 8 Ibrahimovic (45 Balotelli 86).
Submarines not used: 1 Toldo, 2 Cordoue, 18 Crespo, 33 Mancini.
Trainer: Jose Mourinho.

Referee: Paolo Tagliavento (Tarnished).

Reserved: Ibrahimovic 37, Esposito 47, Tiribocchi 55, Caserta 77, Balotelli 89.

Chelsea lose more points again in Stamford Bridge

2009-02-07T12:42:00.001-08:00

Problems on the home front continue as attacking promise of the first half gave way to a poor display after the interval.

It took a good save from debutant Quaresma early on, Ballack went close with a free-kick before the break and Terry should have scored as early as the second minute, but once again a five-man midfield and committed defence from a visiting team proved sufficient to take something away from the Bridge.

Chelsea can point to a legitimate penalty shout in the second half but for every chance the Blues had after the break, Hull came close to landing a sucker punch.

It was not the response every Chelsea follower was looking for after the grim events at Anfield.

Malouda was the player to make way for Quaresma The Frenchman wasn't on the bench either - young Miroslav Stoch the chosen wideman among the subs.

Hilario came in for injured Cech as the only other change, 18-year-old Rhys Taylor was on the bench.

Quaresma started on the left but would switch wings throughout the game and his first involvement was to win a free-kick out wide.

Taken by Lampard, it was flicked on by Ballack and Duke made a hurried save low down by his feet on the line. Terry was there to pounce, but from three yards out he scooped his shot over.

Geovanni attempted a typically long-range strike for Hull on nine minutes which flashed across Hilario's goal but in the end fell five-yards wide.

Quaresma, back on the left, sent over one of his trademark outside-of-the-right-boot crosses that Anelka attacked but couldn't make. That was after 15 minutes of Chelsea on top but not dominating.

Four minutes later it took a full-length finger-tip save from the Hull keeper to deny Quarsema a debut goal. Chelsea had only just defended a dangerous corner from the away team but suddenly broke with three men onto two defenders.

Kalou found the new arrival on the left who cut inside before curling a shot that was heading inside the post before Duke's interception.

Alex headed a corner over after 22 minutes, a powerful driving run by Lampard having created the initial pressure.

Now the Chelsea chances were coming. A well-directed Quaresma corner was cleared but with great technique it was volleyed back by Lampard, the ball striking a Hull body and flying wide.

At the other end Mikel was turned by Geovanni and then brought the Brazilian down in a dangerous position to earn a booking. The same player took the free-kick but was off-target.

There were more than justified questions soon after as to why Zayette wasn't cautioned for a similar foul on Ballack. 'Are you Riley in disguise?' sang the crowd.

Again the sinned-against player lined up the set piece but with the keeper rooted, Ballack missed by a whisker and found the sidenetting.

Terry had a thumping header from a corner blocked as Chelsea continued to look more dangerous than for some time at the Bridge, but with that vital cutting edge still proving elusive.

The next free-kick for the home team on 34 minutes meant it was Lampard's turn and rather than Ballack's guile, the England man went for sheer power. Zayatte stopped it with a part of the body he wouldn't have chosen. After several painful moments and treatment, the centre-back could continue.

Five minutes from the interval the Tigers showed some teeth, full-back Ricketts crossing for Kilbane on the left to head down and watch as it skimmed the post. On the stroke of half-time Marney backheaded a cross just over.

It might have been an improved first-half performance compared with many recent home games, but there was still a feeling of same old story as the teams went down the tunnel at the break.

The first incident of the second half was a booking for Ashbee, the Hull captain catching Ballack with a late challenge.

The visitors then threatened with another whipped in corner and header that Ballack blocked before a real Chelsea escape.

As Bosingwa dawdled and Mikel was indecisive, Fagan nipped in to take a loose ball and race through one-on-one with Hilario. The striker fluffed his big moment and chipped tamely into our keeper's arms.

That was to be Mikel's last involvement in of a game in which Geovanni had troubled him. Belletti was introduced 56 minutes in.

Ashley Cole attempted to take the initiative back but floated a lob over.

Quaresma's lively debut ended on 62 minutes when Drogba was brought on. Anelka pushed out wide.

But the second half continued in worrying fashion. Hull really should have taken the lead when the Chelsea defence was caught as if frozen, Geovanni slipping a reserve pass through to Marney who all alone, pulled his shot wide.

On 68 minutes it was time for Chelsea to feel aggrieved. Kalou's long-range drive was at best speculative but inside the area, it was stopped with what was clearly the arm of Dawson. Referee Lee Mason, in charge of his second Chelsea game, waved play on.

Deco came on for Ballack with 18 minutes remaining as Scolari continued to search for the winning mix.

There was a wait for the next chance, and when it came from Anelka's pass and Kalou's determination to win that ball, the Ivorian shot too close to Duke.

Another free-kick on 86 minutes meant another player's turn, Drogba's this time, but he was a long way off-target.

Still Hull continued to give as good as they got in the second period. It took strong Terry defending to make amends after an Alex mistake and then Ashbee thankfully volleyed wide as a corner was cleared his way.

The whistle blew moments later on Chelsea fourth scoreless draw of the season, and Hull's first clean sheet in 16 league games.

Chelsea (4-3-3): Hilario; Bosingwa, Alex, Terry, A Cole; Ballack (Deco 72), Mikel (Belletti 56), Lampard; Quaresma (Drogba 62), Anelka, Kalou.
Booked Mikel 26.

Hull(4-2-3-1): Duke; Ricketts, Turner, Zayatte, Dawson; Ashbee (c), Marney; Garcia, Geovanni (France 80), Kilbane; Fagan.
Booked Ashbee 47

LATE DRAMA AS TORRES PUTS REDS TOP

2009-02-07T12:30:00.001-08:00

An injury-time winner from substitute Fernando Torres sent Liverpool back to the top of the league after a dramatic 3-2 win at Fratton Park.

The Reds twice came from behind through Fabio Aurelio and Dirk Kuyt before El Nino's ninth goal of the season saw them leapfrog Manchester United until Sunday at least.

All five goals came in an unbelievable second half, and though Liverpool had trailed through David Nugent and Hermann Hreidarsson, the victory was deserved.

Changes were expected following the extra-time defeat to Everton just 72 hours earlier, though the extent no doubt shocked some of the hardcore Scousers who braved the arctic conditions at Fratton Park.

With Torres and Xabi Alonso deemed fit enough only for the bench, rookie striker David Ngog got his first Premier League start, while Fabio Aurelio stood in as a makeshift midfielder, something he was occasionally asked to do by Benitez at Valencia. Elsewhere, there were five at the back, with Daniel Agger returning.

Liverpool started brightly but it was one of their ex stars who was first to threaten when some great hold up play from Nugent allowed Peter Crouch to ghost into the box before shooting straight at Pepe Reina in front of the travelling Kop.

The visitors were dominant from there, as if Benitez's starters felt they had a point to prove.

One of those to impress was Agger, who found Alvaro Arbeloa with a superb lofted pass. The full-back seemed to take Pompey by surprise with an early ball to Yossi Benayoun, who strode into the area only to squander his shot.

Next Aurelio, assuming free-kick duty in the absence of Alonso and the hamstrung Steven Gerrard, brushed the post with a 25-yard bender.

The Brazilian looked a natural in midfield, though had his head in hands on 16 minutes after skewing wide following some slick football from Ngog and Ryan Babel.

Aurelio's midfield partner was next to be denied. The sight of Javier Mascherano directing a scorcher into the bottom corner on 26 minutes took David James by surprise, but the former Reds stopper did just enough to tip wide.

At the other end, Pompey's threat was largely restricted to set-pieces, although a turn and shot from Crouch as half-time loomed caused temporary alarm.

Liverpool started the second half on the front foot, with Ngog winning a corner after skipping past two defenders.

Minutes later Howard Webb waved away penalty protests following an apparent handball from Glen Johnson. If the visitors felt hard done by, things soon evened themselves out when a slip from Agger saw him inadvertently palm the ball away from a blue shirt.

The away fans were starting to bounce in tribute to their £20million substitute, though it was Kuyt who Benitez introduced for Ngog after 56 minutes.

The Dutchman almost made an instant impact. It was Benayoun who skipped effortlessly past Hreidarsson before finding Kuyt, who drove the ball across the six-yard box only for Babel to miss an open goal.

Then, on 62 minutes, a breakthrough at the wrong end. And to add insult to injury, it came from an Evertonian as Nugent latched onto a superb throughball from, who else, Crouch before keeping his cool to slot underneath Reina.

The irony would not have been lost on Sunday newspaper writers had Crouch inflicted a serious blow to Liverpool's title challenge, but just seven minutes later the big man was instrumental in restoring parity. It was the England striker's mis-judged back pass that was handled by James, resulting in an indirect free-kick 10 yards out. Substitute Alonso took the faintest of touches before Aurelio thundered into the bottom corner and it was 1-1.

Cue tremors around Fratton Park as Torres entered the fray. El Nino had 15 minutes to make the difference. But his task was about to be made almost impossible, for it was Portsmouth who struck next.

The goal came on 77 minutes when Nadir Belhadj's in-swinging free-kick was nodded beyond the despairing Reina by an unmarked Hreidarsson.

If Liverpool were to keep the pressure on Manchester United at the top, another one of those early-season comebacks would be required.

The first step to exactly that was taken on 84 minutes when Torres burst clear of Sylvain Distan before cutting back to Kuyt, who took two touches before blasting into the top corner from a difficult angle.

Then, after one minute of injury time, mission impossible was complete when Benayoun's pinpoint cross was met by a bullet header from Torres.

Mexes - I'm a Roma man

2009-02-07T09:12:00.001-08:00

Mexes: Wants to stay at Roma

France centre-back Philippe Mexes has insisted he wants to stay at Roma, despite speculation linking him with a switch to AC Milan.

The player suggested last month that he would not be against a move to the San Siro in the future.

But, while admitting he is flattered to be linked with a club of the stature of Milan, he has insisted that he wants to stay in Rome.

The former Auxerre player told Corriere dello Sport: "I'm happy to talk about this because I want to clear something up.

"I want to stay at Roma. I'm happy here, I'm happy with my team-mates and I've always said that.

"The story with Milan started in newspapers but I have never had any contact with them.

Happy

"But if a team such as Milan is interested in me that can only make me happy, there's no need to tell lies.

"But sometimes as players you have to accept decisions taken by your club. I want to stay but in football things can happen that aren't of a player's choosing."

If Mexes was to leave, he insists he does not want to move to England.

"It's a great league but you can follow it on TV," he said. "It's a very spectacular football but that doesn't tempt me to go to an English club.

"I'm happy here and I like wearing this shirt."

Mexes has already turned down a move to the Premier League once before, when he left Auxerre in 2004.

The French side wanted to sell him to an English club who had bid more money for him but Mexes instead signed a deal with Roma despite still being under contract with Auxerre.

In response, Fifa banned him for six weeks for breach of contract, although that was later suspended on appeal at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

But Roma were ordered to pay Auxerre 7million euros (reduced from 8million euros on appeal) for the deal.

Penalised

"One thing that I want to clarify once and for all is that if I do leave I don't want the same thing to happen that happened when I left Auxerre and Roma were penalised for my transfer," he said.

"If I leave I want to leave on good terms."

On the field, Mexes is looking forward to playing Arsenal at the Emirates in the first leg of their last 16 tie in the UEFA Champions League later this month.

"That will be a great match. There's no need to build it up because the motivation takes care of itself," he said.

The Gunners will be without playmaker Cesc Fabregas, something that Mexes is far from disappointed about.

"I hope they're also missing other players!" he jested. "But jokes aside my only hope is that we win."

Ronaldo - We'll beat Inter

2009-02-07T09:11:00.001-08:00

Ronaldo: Confident

Cristiano Ronaldo has cranked up the pressure ahead of Manchester United's crucial UEFA Champions League clash with Inter Milan.

The English and Italian champions go head-to-head in the last 16 of Europe's elite competition, with the first leg in the Giuseppe Meazza on 24th February before the return tie at Old Trafford on 11th March.

But Ronaldo believes, while Inter are good, the reigning European champions should have too much in the locker for the Italian side.

He told Rai Sport: "Inter are a good team with great players but we're better than them and I'm sure we'll beat them.

One step

"If we beat them we'll feel like we're just one step away from the final."

The ties see Ronaldo renew rivalry with Inter boss and fellow Portuguese Jose Mourinho, with whom he once had a spat during the coach's time at Chelsea.

Ronaldo had claimed that Mourinho needed to take responsibility for Chelsea's defeats rather than complaining about referees while Mourinho responded that Ronaldo was immature and lacked respect, possibly due to a troubled childhood.

Since then, Ronaldo has lifted the World Player of the Year award but Mourinho stated his striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic is better.

Trophies

"I respect everyone's opinions but the trophies that count are in my home," said Ronaldo, who went on to criticise Mourinho's treatment of compatriot Ricardo Quaresma, who moved on loan to Chelsea this week after finding his opportunities limited at Inter following a big-money summer move.

"Ricardo has some great qualities and it's a shame that he wasn't given the time to prove his true worth," he said.

"He was great for Porto and Portugal and he can't be judged on a few matches where he hasn't been at his best.

"Probably the fact that he was transferred for such a large sum of money put too much pressure on him and in Italy it's not easy to do well straight away."

Capello thinks Messi is Maradona's successor

2009-02-06T16:32:00.001-08:00

Lionel Messi is brilliant, says Fabio Capello
Photo: AP Photo/Juan Manuel Serrano

Fabio Capello believes Lionel Messi could be the successor of legendary compatriot Diego Maradona and thinks that the Barcelona star is the best player in the world - even better than current world player of the year Cristiano Ronaldo.

Messi has been in sensational form this season and has been on the forefront of Barcelona's surge to a 12-point lead in La Liga. The 21-year-old has already grabbed 21 goals this season and has 11 assists to his name so far.

And Capello has expressed his admiration for the Argentine forward and believes that Messi will reach as far as Maradona.

"He can do incredible things and is an exceptional player," the England manager said in an interview which Spanish sports daily Marca published Thursday.

"He is Maradona's successor."

Manchester United winger Ronaldo swept all individual prizes for 2008, but Capello thinks that there is no other player in the world who has much talent as Messi.

He added: "Ronaldo is a player with great speed, very good, very dangerous, very technical. He has an extremely high level, but it is Messi that is brilliant.

"The two of them are great players, but nobody in the world has the talent that Messi has."

ASK SIR ALEX - CELEBRITY SPECIAL

2009-02-06T05:57:00.001-08:00

For Inside United's 200th issue, the boss answered questions from some very special guests for his Ask Sir Alex column. The full interview is published on ManUtd.com next week; here's a sneak preview of what to expect...

Who's the quickest player you’ve worked with? Usain Bolt, athlete
Gary Pallister would take some beating in a sprint over 100 metres. But speed is different running with the ball at your feet. So you’d have to consider Kanchelskis, Ronaldo, Giggs, Cole, Paul Parker - he was very quick - Anderson, Ferdinand, Lee Sharpe as a kid was quick, and Paul Ince, too. They’d all be in it. Over 100 metres, Pally would beat any of them. On the pitch, I’d say Kanchelskis or Giggs.

You seem to be the object of more public speculation and criticism than any other manager ever. Does it affect you? Simon Le Bon, singer (Duran Duran)
It’s part of the job as manager of Manchester United. It’s not just me. Look at Ronaldo - the best player in the world - he only has to have half a bad game and he gets slaughtered. Cantona got slaughtered for ages, and you see the criticism Gary Neville gets because he’s a dyed-in-the-wool United man. You accept it’s part of the package. It doesn’t bother me one bit.

Who is the best Premier League manager in terms of man-management and making the most of his resources? Eamonn Holmes, TV presenter
Oh, that’s a belter, that question. Brucey’s done a great job with his resources… Martin O’Neill also… Arsene Wenger… it’s difficult to assess Wenger because he spends a lot of money on youth players and their salaries instead of on a big player. David Moyes has done fantastically well. I’ll go for him, definitely.

PARK SEEKS MORE PRECISION

2009-02-06T05:56:00.001-08:00

PARK SEEKS MORE PRECISION

Sunday's match at West Ham takes Ji-sung Park back to the city where he scored his only United goal of the season so far.

The South Korean has enjoyed one of his best campaigns in a red shirt in terms of appearances and praise for his all-action, high-energy style. But his only strike to date was way back in September, albeit a crucial one in the 1-1 draw with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

"There are so many things that make a good game," says Park. "But in order to get a positive result, to get a victory, goals are obviously the most important thing. I know I have to score more goals."

Goalscoring aside, Park is pleased with his current form, as well as the team's. But despite United's surge to the top of the table, and Liverpool being tipped as the sole challengers, the livewire winger won't take anything for granted.

"Nobody knows what’s going to happen," he says. "I don’t think it’s only a two-horse race, because Chelsea have already played home and away against two of the big four teams.

"West Ham will be tough for us, they have been good this season. But it's important to keep winning so we'll concentrate on the pitch and do our best."

Premier League round-up: United rout Baggies

2009-01-28T10:56:00.001-08:00

Manchester United winger Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates his goal with teammate Dimitar Berbatov
Photo: AP Photo/Simon Dawson

West Brom

0 - 5

Man United

Dimitar Berbatov 22

Carlos Tévez 44

Nemanja Vidić 60

Cristiano Ronaldo 65

Cristiano Ronaldo 73

Manchester United opened a three-point gap at the top of the Premier League thanks to an emphatic 5-0 win over 10-man West Brom at The Hawthorns.

United also set a new record of 11 successive clean sheets while goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar overtook Petr Čech for the longest run without conceding a goal.

Dimitar Berbatov opened the scoring after 22 minutes when he struck his 11th goal of the season following a one-two with fellow ex-Tottenham player Michael Carrick.

The home side almost went further behind within minutes when Cristiano Ronaldo sent a low cross into the area and was met first time by Carlos Tévez whose shot flew only a yard wide.

West Brom found themselves reduced to ten men after 40 minutes when skipper Paul Robinson was sent-off for a challenge on Park Ji-Sung.

United doubled the lead a minute before the interval after goalkeeper Scott Carson dropped a Ryan Giggs free-kick at the feet of the grateful Tévez, who smashed home into the roof of the net.

After the restart, Baggies defender Ryan Donk surged forward and hit the post with a cracker from a narrow angle.

But after an hour Nemanja Vidić ended any chances of a comeback by heading United's third from Giggs’ corner and then Ronaldo made it 4-0 with a simple finish after being teed up by Giggs.

The Portuguese completed United's rout as he fired through Carson’s legs in the 83rd minute.

Elsewhere in Premier League on Tuesday:

Sunderland

1 - 0

Fulham

Portsmouth

0 - 1

Aston Villa

Tottenham

3 - 1

Stoke

EPL preview

2009-01-27T06:35:00.001-08:00

Ferguson: Can smell a title run-in

After a weekend of FA Cup action and with six-and-a-bit days of the winter transfer window remaining, a midweek Premier League fixture is not likely to be top of most managers' wish-lists.

However, English football is never that kind and eight clubs are thrown into action on Tuesday night, with points required at the top and the bottom of the table.

Portsmouth, Sunderland, Tottenham, Stoke and West Brom are scrapping for points at the wrong end of the table, while Aston Villa and Manchester United are looking to boost their credentials at the summit and Fulham will hope to continue their solid campaign.

Things are also beginning to spice up in the transfer window as 2nd February draws ever closer, giving managers something else to fret about, but plans for signings and sales will need to go on hold, for 90 minutes at least, on Tuesday.

League-leading United travel to rock-bottom West Brom hoping to open a three-point advantage over Liverpool, who sit second and make a difficult journey to Wigan on Wednesday.

Red Devils boss Sir Alex Ferguson admits that he can already 'smell' a title run-in and the 10-time Premier League champion will want to pile more pressure on his closest rivals by extending a run of one defeat in 20 games.

PRETTY,SEXY and BEAUTY of WAGS

2009-01-27T04:58:00.001-08:00

1. Victoria Beckham

2. Cheryl Cole

3. Coleen Rooney

4. Abi Clancy

5. Alex Curran

DAVID VILLA : The next Manchester City target!!!

2009-01-25T13:51:00.001-08:00

Manchester City turn attention to David Villa
Photo: AP Photo/Alberto Saiz

Manchester City are preparing a £70 million bid for David Villa as the Abu Dhabi owners are adamant they want a host of big signings as quickly as possible to catapult the club into Champions League contention, according to a report in the British tabloid the Daily Star.

After Kaká turned down the club’s £100 million offer, City have now targeted Spanish international Villa, although they have already been told by Valencia that they will have to wait until the end of the season before a deal could be struck.

The 27-year-old was goalscorer at Euro 2008 as he helped Spain to become European Champions.

Real Madrid and Chelsea have both had a long-term interest in Villa, but last year the striker put pen to paper on a new deal that ties him to Valencia until 2013.

That would increase the fee demanded by Los Che but City’s owners would have little problem meeting their valuation, and they have asked for Valencia to allow them to be in pole position to sign the player.

City are ready to offer £70 million plus one of Brazilian pair Elano and Jô for the player.

While Valencia have so far been able to keep hold of their key players, it is claimed that the cash-strapped club know they will have to sell their stars to balance the books.

Fernando Gómez, Valencia’s sporting director, has given City encouragement that a bid in the summer would be likely to prove successful.

"We are calm at the moment, but it is normal for people to be talking about David," he said.

"He is our best striker and we do not want to sell him. But, in football, nothing is impossible."

José Luis Tamargo, Villa’s agent, added: "A number of English clubs are interested in David, but that is nothing new and the decision will be down to Valencia."

Valencia coach Unai Emery wants guarantees from the club that Villa will not be sold, but the president, Vicente Soriano, has only said he will not go in January.

TEDDY SHERINGHAM: BERBA'S TOP

2009-01-23T06:22:00.001-08:00

Dimitar Berbatov isn’t the first striker to leave White Hart Lane for Old Trafford. More than a decade earlier, Teddy Sheringham made the very same move and ended up a Treble winner. Now retired, Sheri runs the rule over the Reds’ Bulgarian ace…

I’m a big, big fan of Dimitar Berbatov. In fact, I think he’s a player like no other. He goes around the pitch at his own pace but then all of a sudden he’ll put on a burst of pace and leave his man for dead.

Tottenham fans will remember a goal he scored against Charlton a few years ago when he flicked the ball around a defender and peeled off around the other side before collecting it again and poking it into the far corner. It was exquisite.

He does things you don’t expect and that’s what makes him so exciting. He also brings other players into the game and he’s very clever on the ball. I really enjoy watching him.

That said, I can understand how he could frustrate some supporters. Some people want to see a bit more enthusiasm from him, but that’s just how he plays football. Personally, I love it.

I’m not sure what sort of reception he’ll get from Spurs fans on Saturday. I think they all realised he was going to leave the club – I think everybody involved in football knew that was coming – but I think a lot of Spurs fans were disappointed with the manner in which he left.

The whole saga just seemed to drag on and on and that left a sour taste in some people’s mouths. I hope a lot of Spurs fans will remember what he did in a Tottenham shirt.

I don’t think Dimitar will feel any extra pressure to prove himself against his old club on Saturday. When you play for United you feel you have to prove your worth every time you step onto the pitch. You’re also in a situation where every team wants to beat you, so that always inspires you. You don’t need any extra motivation.

Man City accuse Kaká's father

2009-01-21T15:15:00.001-08:00

Manchester City have branded Kaká's father greedy
Photo: AP

Manchester City chief executive Garry Cook believes that money was more important to Kaká's father, Bosco Leite, as he feels the AC Milan star's representatives was greedy.

Cook and the City delegation returned empty handed from Milan on Monday night after Kaká decided not to accept City's whopping £108 million offer.

The 11th-hour drama seems to have left a bitter taste in the mouth of Cook who felt that rather than looking at the wider picture, the deal just turned into one about money.

Cook explained: "We got past the first phase of agreeing a fee and the next step was about commercial terms.

"But you could see they were on a timescale and they wanted to jump straight to the third step which was about money.

"We wanted to talk to him about the opportunities and ideas we had for Kaká at City.

"We truly believe Kaká is a humanitarian of the highest order.

"We would have put resources there to help build his foundation and send a message to global football about what great players can do.

"Kaká has the capability to be the next global ambassador for the game.

"But his father just wanted an offer. He did not want to sit and talk about the rest of the stuff."

Cook says the transfer collapsed over negotiations with the 26-year-old’s father about sponsorship and image rights.

He estimates Kaká has 20 personal sponsorship deals, all tied in to his commitment to Milan, and if agreement could be reached with the player and his club, those individual deals would all require negotiation.

Yet Bosco refused to even show City the sponsorship deals for which they asked to be compensated.

"It was just too sophisticated," Cook added. "Bosco does not have a lawyer so when we asked whether we could see the contracts to know what we were dealing with, he just said 'show me the offer'. It was very frustrating.

"When we left for the airport we thought there would be more meetings. But then we got a phone call from Kaká’s side asking how much money they were getting and we had not even got to that step.

"It was clear then that it was just not going to happen and we pulled out."

Agent - Arshavin deal close

2009-01-18T10:15:00.000-08:00

Arshavin: Arsenal-bound

Zenit star set for record-breaking Emirates move

Andrei Arshavin's agent says the deal taking him to Arsenal will be concluded over the next week.

The 27-year-old Zenit St Petersburg ace has long been linked with a move to the Premier League and almost joined Arsenal's big rivals Tottenham.

But now the Gunners are in pole position to seal the forward's signature in a deal which is likely to be worth more than £15million.

The deal will also represent a club record for Arsenal, beating the £13million they paid for Sylvain Wiltord some nine years ago.

"The deal should go through this week," Arshavin's agent Dennis Lachter said in the News of the World.

"Andrei wants to go, Arsenal want him and Zenit accept they have to sell.

"It's just a matter of sorting out the sums but the indication is it'll happen soon, perhaps within days."

Skysports.com

SERIE A COMPLATE RESULT

2009-01-18T09:43:00.001-08:00

The serie a result this weekend like a nightmare for Internazionale, because il Nerazzurri can't beat Atalanta in their ground. 2 goals from doni and 1 Floccari goal just can reply by Ibrahimovic goal. In other Match, singel dramatic and fantastic goal Baptista carried Gialorossi beat Torino. In San Siro goal from the Brazillian young boys Pato in 7th minute gived Ac milan importent 3 point.

This the Serie A complate Result :

Italy Serie A
Atalanta 3 - 1 Inter Milan
Cagliari 2 - 0 Udinese
Catania 1 - 2 Bologna
Chievo 2 - 1 Napoli
Torino 0 - 1 Roma
Sampdoria 0 - 2 Palermo
Lecce 0 - 2 Genoa
Saturday 17th January
Italy Serie A
Siena 1 - 0 Reggina
AC Milan 1 - 0 Fiorentina

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2009-01-18T09:43:00.000-08:00

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Milan will not replace Kaka

2009-01-18T09:41:00.000-08:00

Kaka: Irreplaceable

Italians will not replace Brazilian superstar if he joins City

AC Milan general manager Adriano Galliani has declared that if Kaka does join Manchester City they will not be on the look out for a replacement.

Milan are reportedly still considering City's offer and if the deal does go through the Italians will be able to take their pick of the top stars across the world.

But despite a sale raising possible transfer funds to over £100million Galliani insists that the club will not be looking to spend.

Arsenal's Emmanuel Adebayor and Chelsea's Michael Essien are some of the names to be linked with Milan should Kaka swap Serie A for the Premier League.

"There are no replacements for Kaka, because he is unique," Galliani told Sky Italia.

"Therefore if he leaves we will remain as we are. We don't need second hand players.

"The club have debts and a good club should know how to settle them on their own, without running to their owners.

"However, the future of Kaka is not already set in stone. We still have to evaluate, think hard and decide."

Skysports.com

Maradona in Aguero hint

2009-01-18T09:35:00.001-08:00

Aguero: Highly-rated

Argentine could make City switch, according to international manager

Diego Maradona believes Argentine ace Sergio Aguero would leave Atletico Madrid for either Manchester City or Chelsea if they made an offer for him.

Aguero is one of the most sought-after players in Europe after impressing for club and country in the last year.

Atletico Madrid are determined to keep hold of the prolific striker with all of Europe's top clubs credited with an interest in his services.

Aguero, who is seeing Maradona's daughter, has insisted he is happy with life in the Spanish capital, but the Argentina boss has given suitors of the striker encouragement by claiming the 20-year-old would consider a move to England.

"If Chelsea, City or Inter Milan come in with sufficient money then Atletico will take it - it is the law of football," Maradona told Marca.

"If they can pay the right money then they can take Kun [Aguero].

"I don't particularly want Kun to leave Atletico but I always try to tell the truth and all those clubs must know what will happen if they come up with the cash."

Skysports.com

PREMIER LEAGUE RESULT

2009-01-17T12:33:00.001-08:00

Manchester United moved top of the Premier League, Chelsea snatched a dramatic win against Stoke as Aston Villa also won. Arsenal beat "the tiger" Hull City, fantastic score carried Rovers again newcastle, and Arabian Emperor scored again Wigan.

Berbatov: Celebrates winner

BOLTON 0-1 MAN.UNITED

Berbatov 90

Dramatic Chelsea win

CHELSEA               2-1               STOKE C

beletti 88                               delap 60
lampard 90

HULL                      1-3              ARSENAL

Cousin 65                             Adebayor 30
                                           Nasri 82
                                             Bendtner 86

West Brom 3-0 BORO

Brunt 4 Digard s/o 62
Koren 54,67

Blackburn 3-0 NEWCASTLE

McCarthy 61(pen)
Roberts 66,86

MAN.CITY 1-0 WIGAN

Zabaleta 53 Dunne s/o 54

pictures source : Skysports.com

Juve would reject £100m offer

2009-01-17T03:36:00.001-08:00

President Cobolli Gigli uninterested in cashing-in on stars

Del Piero: Juve legend

Juventus president Giovanni Cobolli Gigli has stated that the Serie A giants would not be tempted to sell Alessandro Del Piero for £100million.

Cobolli Gigli's comments follow Manchester City's interest in AC Milan star Kaka, with reports suggesting a deal in excess of £100million could be in the offing.

Juve goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has also been linked with City in the past, but Cobolli Gigli is adamant Juve will not lose any of their star personnel.

"We have never received any offer for Buffon," said Cobolli Gigli. "As for Del Piero, he is the star and central column of Juve and would not be remotely interested in leaving Turin.

"No, we would not sell him, not even for £100m. These figures, especially at this moment when the world and football should be reconsidering its finances, are just illogical."

Skysports.com

Premier League preview : United target top spot; Chelsea host Stoke; Pompey head to Spurs

2009-01-16T13:41:00.001-08:00

Ferguson: Sights set on summit

Manchester United can take over as Premier League leaders with victory over Bolton at the Reebok Stadium on Saturday.

Having been forced to play catch-up on their title rivals after European Super Cup and Fifa Club World Cup commitments disrupted their domestic duties, United can take advantage of Liverpool's inactivity until Monday's Merseyside derby with Everton to crank up the pressure on Rafa Benitez's men.

After Benitez's presentation of his 'facts' against Sir Alex Ferguson was swiftly followed by a 0-0 draw at Stoke, the Red Devils will know pushing the Anfield outfit down to second - temporarily at least - will increase the tension even further.

United will have to cope without England international Wayne Rooney after he suffered a hamstring injury in Wednesday's win over Wigan, but have won seven of their last eight games against Bolton, with their only defeat coming last season courtesy of Nicolas Anelka's strike.

Gary Megson's side have been beaten in five of their last six league outings and they come up against a Red Devils defence which has not conceded a Premier League goal since 8th November, a run of nine games.

Chelsea's title bid is in desperate need of an injection of form and confidence after their Old Trafford drubbing last weekend as they prepare to welcome Stoke City to Stamford Bridge.

A venue which once proved impenetrable is anything but this term, with Luiz Felipe Scolari's men already dropping more points on home turf this term than the Blues lost in their first two seasons in West London under Jose Mourinho.

Stoke's display as they frustrated Liverpool last time out gave a timely reminder that Tony Pulis' side can compete with the best in the top-flight and snapped a three-game losing run, although the Potters have not tasted victory since their 22nd November triumph over West Brom.

Spotlight

Harry Redknapp and Jermain Defoe can expect to run the gauntlet when Portsmouth travel to Tottenham on Sunday, live on Sky Sports 1 and HD1.

The former Pompey boss and striker raised the hackles of the Fratton Park faithful with their respective decisions to quit the South Coast for White Hart Lane.

In defence of the duo, it should not be forgotten that Redknapp guided the club away from relegation danger before helping them secure the FA Cup for the first time in 69 years, while Defoe's desire to stay was hardly helped by Tony Adams' decision to leave him out in favour of David Nugent.

With the vile chants aimed at Sol Campbell by sections of Spurs' travelling fans leading to police charges for a number of supporters, the spotlight will be very firmly trained on behaviour in the stands this weekend.

On the field, Spurs can climb above their rivals in the relegation battle with victory, but have not claimed all three points in their last five league games, with Portsmouth going into the game on the back of a four-match losing run.

Sam Allardyce comes up against the club who sacked him just over a year ago when his Blackburn charges tackle Newcastle United at Ewood Park.

Allardyce was never accepted by sections of the St James' Park support and, after being appointed under the Freddy Shepherd regime, was shown the door with new owner Mike Ashley turning to fans' favourite Kevin Keegan, a move which imploded spectacularly.

Although unbeaten under the former Bolton boss, Rovers remain in the Premier League drop zone, while Newcastle cannot consider their current 11th place to be a position of safety as they are only three points away from danger.

Magpies striker Michael Owen, on target in the 2-2 draw against West Ham, comes up against another side he enjoys facing, having scored nine times in 13 Premier League games against the Ewood Park outfit.

Manchester City's pursuit of AC Milan ace Kaka, in a deal reputed to be worth a staggering £100million, has dominated the headlines ahead of the home clash with Wigan Athletic.

The blockbusting transfer must not be allowed to distract from the very real relegation fears which remain at Eastlands, with Mark Hughes hoping new signing Wayne Bridge can help to shore up their porous defence.

Wigan remain one of the Premier League's form sides, despite their narrow defeat by United on Wednesday night, and had won six of their seven games prior to their reverse at Old Trafford.

Top four

Aston Villa's attempts to crack the Premier League's top four continue as they make the trip to the Stadium of Light to tackle Sunderland.

Martin O'Neill's men maintained their three-point cushion with a workmanlike victory over derby rivals West Brom last time out, while the Black Cats had to settle for a share of the spoils from their clash with North East rivals Middlesbrough.

Villa have won four of the previous six Premier League meetings between the two, but will have to be on their guard against striker Djibril Cisse, who has a happy knack of scoring against the Midlands side, with three in four outings.

With just nine points between Hull City in eighth and West Brom at the very foot of the table, over half of the Premier League must still consider themselves to be involved in the relegation scrap.

The Tigers have suffered an alarming slide in recent weeks and have just one league victory to show from their last 12 outings, although Wednesday's smash-and-grab FA Cup third round replay victory at Newcastle will have lifted spirits.

Arsenal are the visitors to the KC Stadium on Saturday and will be determined to avoid a repeat of their shock 2-1 Emirates reverse at the hands of Phil Brown's side earlier in the season as they look to maintain the pressure on Villa and the teams above them.

West Ham welcome Fulham to Upton Park on Sunday for their London derby which will be screened live on Sky Sports 1 and HD1.

Roy Hodgson's side continue to struggle away from Craven Cottage and are yet to win on their travels this season, with a paltry return of just two goals to show from their nine games, although their mean defence has been breached just six times.

Gianfranco Zola has, so far, managed to retain the services of his coveted key men, with bids rejected from Manchester City for Craig Bellamy and Scott Parker, and he will need to keep them on board if the recent encouraging improvement in results is to continue.

West Brom boss Tony Mowbray locks horns with the club he served with great distinction as a player when Middlesbrough arrive at the Hawthorns for a key fixture in the relegation scrap.

Previous friendships will be put to one side with both teams desperate for the points and the Baggies eager to do the double over the North East club following their 1-0 success at the Riverside back in September.

Mowbray's men are still bottom despite two victories from their last four games, while Gareth Southgate's Boro have now gone nine matches since their last three-point haul and are only out of the bottom three by a solitary point.

EPL SCEDULE THIS WEEKEND :

Saturday

Blackburn v Newcastle
Bolton v Manchester United
Chelsea v Stoke
Manchester City v Wigan
Sunderland v Aston Villa
West Brom v Middlesbrough
Hull City v Arsenal

Sunday

West Ham v Fulham
Tottenham v Portsmouth

source : Skysports.com

INJURIES STRETCH SIR ALEX'S SQUAD

2009-01-16T11:01:00.001-08:00

Carlos Tevez and Jonny Evans will both have to prove their fitness on Saturday morning as Sir Alex Ferguson faces up to an injury-enforced selection dilemma ahead of the visit to Bolton Wanderers.

The pair picked up knocks in the midweek victory over Wigan and are not yet ready to be passed fit, hence the need for a 10am test.

“We limped over the line on Wednesday night, when we picked up quite a few injuries. At this time I couldn’t tell you what my side is going to be," said Sir Alex.

“We’ve got fitness tests on two players, possibly three, on Saturday morning. [Carlos] Tevez and [Jonny] Evans are major doubts. They will have a fitness test at 10am. There are one or two others that are doubtful."

If Evans were to miss the trip to the Reebok, it would hit United in an area that is already suffering from numerous absentees.

"With Wes, Rio and Patrice all out, it would be a major blow if Evans isn't available, particularly because of the form he has been in," added Sir Alex.

“I've brought James Chester into the squad. Although he hasn't played in the first team, he is still a capable young player. If it has to be, then it has to be."

Video: Watch Sir Alex's press conference now on MUTV Online.

ManUtd.com

United squeeze past Wigan United beat Wigan to go second, two points behind Liverpool

2009-01-15T04:04:00.001-08:00

Quick out the blocks: Rooney fires United ahead after one minute

Man of Match: Nemanja Vidic was a rock at the back for United and was singled out for special praise by Sir Alex.

Moment of the match: United's blistering start, a brilliant ball from Berbatov, a step over and cross from Ronaldo and a simple finish from Rooney and Wigan were one nil down in the first minute.

Attempt of the match: Clearly confident after scoring his first goal in English football against Spurs on Sunday Maynor Figueroa burst forward from left-back but his shot from all of 30-yards nearly hit the corner flag.

Save of Match: Figueroa again, after he fired from outside the area but this time with real venom but Van der Sar managed to deny him and hold onto the ball at the same time.

Talking Point: Will United go top with a win against Bolton on Saturday?

Skysports.com

Ronaldo makes United pledge

2009-01-14T06:52:00.001-08:00

Ronaldo: Incessant rumours

Fifa World Player of the Year commits to Red Devils

Cristiano Ronaldo has again moved to distance himself from reports linking him with a move to Real Madrid.

The Manchester United winger became embroiled in a long-running transfer saga involving the Spanish giants last summer, before eventually committing his future to the Red Devils.

Those at Old Trafford had hoped his public show of affection for the club would help to bring an end to the incessant rumours.

However, the issue has resurfaced following the opening of the January transfer window, with Real once again touted as a possible destination for Ronaldo this summer.

The Portuguese superstar insists he is happy at United, though, and has reiterated his intention to remain at the club for the foreseeable future.

"I intend to win as many trophies as I can with this club for as long as possible," he said.

"We are a young team and the future is good.

Fantastic

"I want to be here and be part of the success that lies ahead. It is great to be part of such a fantastic club.

"I intend to be here for years and years."

Ronaldo is certainly not letting his focus be distracted by the Real rumours, and is targeting a clean sweep of silverware this term.

United have already claimed the Club World Cup this season, but remain in the running for Premier League, UEFA Champions League, FA Cup and Carling Cup glory.

"We are going to try and win the lot, and why not? In my head I know it is possible," added Ronaldo.

"The priority is to retain the Premier League and Champions League and we have the players, the spirit and desire to do more.

"We want to make history by winning all five trophies."

via : skysports.com

Kaká: Pato will be world's best

2009-01-13T06:24:00.001-08:00

AC Milan striker Pato celebrates after scoring against AS Roma with his teammate Kaká
Photo: REUTERS/Tony Gentile

Brazilian ace Kaká has tipped AC Milan teammate Alexandre Pato to follow in his footsteps by winning the FIFA World Player of the Year award in future.

Kaká, who won the prize in 2007, is in Zürich alongside the other four nominees for this year's award, where Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo became the second Portuguese to scoop the accolade after Luis Figo in 2001.

And in an interview with FIFA.com, Kaká has heaped high praise on Pato, who hit a crucial double in Milan's 2-2 draw with AS Roma, and expects a glorious future for the youngster.

He said: "There are always new players reaching the top in football and I'm sure Pato will be in my position one day.

"Alexandre is extremely talented and is getting lots of experience at a young age. He will win the FIFA World Player of the Year one day.

"I have had the honour of winning the award and it is a dream come true to say that you are the best player in the world."

Cristiano Ronaldo Crowned FIFA World Player Of The Year

2009-01-12T12:24:00.000-08:00

pictures : thesun.co.uk

Ronaldo beat off competition from Lionel Messi, Xavi, as well as Fernando Torres, and last year’s winner Kaka.

The attacking wideman had a magnificent 2007/08 season, scoring 42 goals for Manchester United, and capturing the Premier League, Champions League and European Golden Boot. He followed this up this term by lifting the Club World Cup in Japan.

Ronaldo caps off a clean sweep of the major awards, having also picked up the prestigious Ballon d'Or (European Footballer of the Year) at the end of 2008.

The 23-year-old becomes the first English-based player to be named FIFA World Player of the Year, and only the second Portuguese, following in the footsteps of Luis Figo, who triumphed in 2001.

In the women's category, Brazilian sensation Marta was victorious, winning for the third year in succession.

The FIFA Fair Play Awards went jointly to the Armenia and Turkey Football Federations for the work they did in helping bring the two countries together politically, socially and football-wise.

The FIFA Presidential Award was presented to the United States Women's National Team.

source : skysports.com

Liga round-up : Barca leave it late as Real crush Mallorca

2009-01-12T04:04:00.001-08:00

Messi: Barca's hero once again

Real Madrid have moved second after crushing Real Mallorca, but Barcelona still extend lead at the top of the table.

Barcelona were given an almighty scare by bottom of the table Osasuna before Josep Guardiola's men eventually ran out 3-2 winners.

Barca dominated from the off with the only surprise of the first half being it took nearly until half time before Samuel Eto'o broke the deadlock.

The visitors were caught cold in the second half and quick-fire double from Osasuna looked for a while like handing Barcelona a second Liga defeat of the season.

Firstly, Miguel Flano floated a header over Victor Valdes in the net before Walter Pandiani turned home Juanfran's cross in the middle to leave Guardiola's men rocking.

However, they managed to steady themselves enough for Xavi to drill home a brave equaliser from 12-yards out after some neat work by Dani Alves.

With the visitors sensing an opportunity to sinks Osasuna once and for all who else but Lionel Messi won the match for the league leaders, who are now 12 points clear of the summit of the table.

The Argentine wizard gathered possession out wide before running at Roberto in the Osasuna goal before lashing an unstopped left-footed drive home from outside the penalty area.

Real Madrid are up into second place in the Liga table with a convincing 3-0 success over relegation-threatened Real Mallorca.

The damage was done early on at ONO Estadi with goals from Arjen Robben and Raul inside the opening 17 minutes putting the visitors two up.

Sergio Ramos' goal in the 66th minute rounded off a fine display by Juande Ramos' men in a game that saw no less than nine bookings.

Atletico Madrid suffered their second consecutive defeat after being surprised 3-2 by Athletic Bilbao at Vicente Calderon.

Things started well enough for the home side with Antonio Lopez firing them in front after 15 minutes. However, Koikili's effort on the stroke of half-time proved crucial.

Fernando Llorente scored a brace after the interval before Maniche was given his marching orders on 72 minutes leaving the home side a man light.

Diego Forlan did pull a goal back for Atletico two minutes into injury-time but it proved nothing more than a consolation.

Relegation-threatened Espanyol battled back from two goals down to claim a priceless point in a 2-2 draw with Almeria.

The home fans were less than pleased with 54 minutes on the clock with a brace from Kalu Uche putting the visitors two-up.

However, Roman Martinez pulled one back soon after with Nicolas Pareja's last-gasp free-kick rescuing a thrilling share of the spoils.

Roberto Abbondanzieri's early red card proved crucial as Numancia moved away from the relegation zone with a 2-0 win over Getafe.

Jose Barkero's successful penalty and substitute Carlos Aranda's late second wrapped up a fine win.

Racing Santander's home game against Recreativo Huelva finished all-square at one apiece after Javier Camunas cancelled out Jonathan's opener.

Nine-man Real Betis suffered their fourth consecutive Liga defeat after going down to a last-gasp 2-1 loss at home to Malaga.

Antonio Apono opened the scoring from the penalty spot before Juan Melli was given his marching orders shortly after.

However, Achille Amana still equalised for the home side, although their predicament worsened when he was then sent off on 68 minutes.

Just when it looked like the 10 men had done enough to secure a priceless point substitute Pereira Eliseu snatched a last-gasp winner.

Sporting Gijon have leapfrogged Real Valladolid in the table following a 2-1 success over the 10-man side at El Molinon.

The game was effectively over at half-time with goals from Gonzalez Carmelo and David Barral sandwiching Alberto Marcos' dismissal.

Valladolid did pull one back late on through Jose Garcia Calvo, but it proved nothing more than a consolation.

lates update :

Atletico Madrid 2 Athletic Bilbao 3
Espanyol 2 Almeria 2
Mallorca 0 Real Madrid 3
Numancia 2 Getafe 0
Osasuna 2 Barcelona 3
Racing Santander 1 Recreativo Huelva 1
Real Betis 1 Malaga 2
Sporting Gijon 2 Valladolid 1

via : skysports.com

Pato Still Believes In Scudetto Despite Roma Draw

2009-01-12T02:52:00.001-08:00

Roma and Milan got 2009 underway with an enticing battle at the Stadio Olimpico, a match that ended all square after ninety minutes of play.

Mirko Vucinic grabbed a brace for the home side, whilst for the visitors; Alexandre Pato did likewise, to celebrate the official debut of David Beckham in the Rossoneri colours.

At the conclusion of the contest, the savior for Milan spoke to Sky, to give his thoughts on his performance tonight, as well as the effects the result may have in terms of his side’s chances of winning the Scudetto this season.

“My good form is down to the team, who are fantastic,” Pato said in the interview with Sky.

“They help me and give me peace, and that is why I am so happy to be a player in this team,” he added.

“Ancelotti told us we had to play the ball around quickly, and that is exactly what we did to achieve this result.

“Now we must continue to improve, and fight for the title, which is still our main objective,” he continued.

Recently, the club’s new signing Beckham told Pato that he has a great future ahead, both at a club and international level.

In response to this, the young Brazilian stated that, “I am so happy with his words. He is a great player, and it is very good to have him with us at Milan,” he concluded.

Tonight’s draw leaves Milan nine points adrift of the league leaders Inter, after 18 rounds of Italian football.

Adrian Del Monte

via : goal.com

Becks 'surprised' to start

2009-01-12T02:44:00.001-08:00

Beckham: handed start

David Beckham was pleasantly "surprised" after starting for AC Milan in the 2-2 draw with Roma.

The England midfielder played 89 minutes and impressed on his debut.

And he has admitted he will review his position with Milan when his two-month loan agreement from LA Galaxy ends.

The 33-year-old is supposed to go back to the United States in March when the new MLS campaign kicks off.

"The contract and the agreement is that I go back to LA on March 8th or 9th so I'm going to enjoy it up to then and we'll see," he said after starring for the Rossoneri.

He also admitted he was surprised to play for so long in his first Serie A game.

"I feel very good, very strong, a lot stronger than I thought I was going to feel," Beckham said. "I had fun out there.

"I was surprised to have started the game but I am happy. Playing out there is what I love doing and I enjoyed it. I didn't think I would last that long but I felt so good.

Energy

"At half-time I felt really strong. I think the manager saw that I felt good, that I still had energy and he kept me on.

"And I'm glad the manager kept me as long as he did because I needed time on the pitch in order to get match fitness."

Beckham was asked if England boss Fabio Capello had told him anything before playing for Milan, a club Capello once coached.

"Everybody knows I have a very good relationship with Fabio," Beckham said. "He's a great manager.

"He gave me advice to play football at the highest level.

"It is great to play at this club and to be out there with some great players.

"I'm enjoying being part of this team and training with these players but I will take it one step at a time.

"It's pretty amazing to be among some of those players and I'm glad to just give them the ball and they'll deliver."

via : Skysports.com

3 GOAL UNITED SWEEP CHELSEA ASIDE

2009-01-11T10:26:00.001-08:00

Manchester United and Chelsea went head-to-head at Old Trafford hoping to take advantage of Liverpool’s draw to Stoke City yesterday and gain some ground on the league leaders.

Yet the reigning champions were without Rio Ferdinand who despite training all week, suffered a recurrence of his back problem meaning Jonny Evans kept his place alongside Nemanja Vidic, although Patrice Evra returned following his ban.

For the visitors, Didier Drogba was preferred up front to Nicolas Anelka whilst John Terry returned from suspension and partnered Ricardo Carvalho at the back.

The first half was an open, free flowing affair devoid of chances yet not without an element of spice as the tackles flew in.

Yet it took almost half an hour for either side to carve out a clear opportunity, Patrice Evra breaking down the left and beating Deco before playing it into Rooney on the edge of the box.

The striker, with his back to goal, laid the back into Berbatov’s path but the Bulgarian’s shot was tame and Petr Cech collected comfortably.

Chelsea, meanwhile were looking strong yet failing to quite find the final ball and it was the reigning champions who finished the half strongly.

Minutes before the break, a flowing move saw involving Giggs and Berbatov finally saw Park play a one-two with Ronaldo before shooting but finding his effort well blocked by John Terry.

The hosts thought they had scored moments later, after Ronaldo headed home a Giggs cross following a short corner routine however referee Howard Webb disallowed his effort after the linesman flagged.

United were enraged but from the resulting kick they were ahead, Berbatov touching the ball onto Vidic at the far post who sneaked past Terry to head home and hand the home side the lead.

Luiz Felipe Scolari changed things at half-time, Deco who picked up a knock in the first time, being replaced by Anelka as the Blues went in search of the equaliser.

Yet it was the home side who stretched their lead, just after the hour mark. Ronaldo out on the left backheeled the ball to the overlapping Evra and the full back swept in a superb cross that was too high for Berbatov but perfectly weighted for Rooney who swept home first time past Cech.

Scolari responded immediately, replacing Bosingwa with Belletti, whilst a hobbling Evra was replaced by O’Shea for the hosts.

Yet Chelsea struggled to work Edwin Van der Sar in the United goal and the chances were few and far between for Scolari’s men.

With less than 20 minutes to go a Lampard free kick found Drogba in acres of space at the far post, yet the Ivorian conspired to completely miss his kick, much to the delight of a jubilant Old Trafford.

The home side, meanwhile, continued to threaten with Park, Rooney and Ronaldo continually threatening the visitors’ defence.

Indeed Ronaldo might have added to the scoreline, his shot from range flying inches wide of Cech’s post

Yet with minutes to go the European champions compounded their visitors’ misery with their third of the afternoon.

A Ronaldo free kick, awarded after the Portuguese had been fouled by Belletti, was driven in and Berbatov poked the ball home from six yards to complete a comprehensive victory for Ferguson’s men.

Man Utd: Van der Sar, Neville, Vidic, Evans, Evra (O’Shea, 66), Ronaldo, Fletcher, Giggs (Carrick, 80), Park, Berbatov, Rooney.

Chelsea: Cech, Bosingwa (Belletti, 63), Carvalho, Terry, Ashley Cole, Mikel, Joe Cole (Di Santo, 85), Lampard, Ballack, Deco (Anelka, 46), Drogba.

GOALS

3-0 Manchester United (Berbatov, 87)

2-0 Manchester United (Rooney, 62)

1-0 Manchester United (Vidic, 45)

Gill Clark, Goal.com

EPL UPDATE : Stoke City frustrated Liverpool, Wins for Villa, Gunners and Toffees, but two draws in the North East

2009-01-10T12:15:00.000-08:00

Gerrard: Stoke frustration

Stoke City frustrated Liverpool, Aston Villa took the Midlands derby honours, but Arsenal and Everton also won to keep up the pursuit of Martin O'Neill's side.

Middlesbrough and Sunderland shared local bragging rights, while Andy Carroll hit a landmark goal as Newcastle United fought back to draw with West Ham United.

Meanwhile, the cold snap claimed the game between Fulham and Blackburn Rovers, and Portsmouth's clash at home to Manchester City.

Tony Pulis' Stoke side frustrated Premier League leaders Liverpool for the second time this season after a 0-0 draw at the Britannia Stadium.

In a scrappy contest, the Potters' long throw specialist Rory Delap hit the bar early on before Ryan Shawcross' header was rightly ruled out for offside.

Liverpool, on the back of manager Rafa Benitez's criticism of Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson, struggled to reach anywhere near their best form.

But they twice came close to snatching the points in the final 10 minutes as Steven Gerrard's free-kick came back off the bar before the Liverpool skipper's shot clipped the outside of the post after he was played in by substitute Fernando Torres.

Battling

Aston Villa climbed up to third in the table after a battling 2-1 victory at home to local rivals West Bromwich Albion, who remain bottom.

Former Baggies defender Curtis Davies put Villa ahead in the 19th minute as his back-post header from Gareth Barry's cross took a slight deflection on its way past Scott Carson.

Carson, who spent last season on loan at Villa, then gifted the hosts the decisive goal on 41 minutes as he somehow allowed Gabriel Agbonlahor's cross-shot from a narrow angle to deflect underneath his body and over the line.

West Brom pulled a goal back four minutes into the second half when James Morrison's shot, from Roman Bednar's knock-down, took a deflection on its way past Brad Friedel.

Arsenal remain in pursuit of Villa after substitute Nicklas Bendtner's late goal secured a hard-fought 1-0 win over Bolton Wanderers at Emirates Stadium.

After a lifeless first half, Arsenal looked sharper in the second period and Emmanuel Adebayor should have done better when his shot was blocked by Andy O'Brien after taking too long to pull the trigger.

The Gunners then came close when Robin van Persie struck the post before Kolo Toure's long-range effort had Jussi Jaaskelainen diving to his right to push the ball away.

Arsenal finally broke Bolton's resistance on 84 minutes when Van Persie lifted a cross to the far post where Bendtner raced in to slide the ball past Jaaskelainen.

Everton are not giving up on the push for a UEFA Champions League spot after a comfortable 2-0 win over out-of-sorts Hull City at Goodison Park.

Everton took the lead on 18 minutes when Leighton Baines' cross from the left was glanced past Boaz Myhill at the near post by Marouane Fellaini, although the Belgian looked offside when the ball was played in.

And the hosts increased their lead at the end of the first half when Mikel Arteta's thunderbolt of a free-kick from 30 yards flew through a gap in the Tigers' wall and powered past Myhill.

Downing

Middlesbrough's run without a win now stretches to nine Premier League games after a 1-1 draw with Sunderland in the Tees-Wear derby.

A dour first half was brought to life in injury time as Stewart Downing teed up Afonso Alves for the Brazilian to guide the ball past Marton Fulop from the edge of the area.

Sunderland grabbed an equaliser on 82 minutes when Andy Reid played in fellow substitute David Healy down the right-hand channel and his low cross was side-footed home from six yards out by Kenwyne Jones.

Andy Carroll's first goal for Newcastle salvaged a 2-2 draw at home to an in-form West Ham side.

The Magpies made the breakthrough on 19 minutes when Michael Owen was allowed time and space to drill a low shot from the edge of the area inside the near post, which Robert Green could only help into the net.

But the Hammers levelled 10 minutes later when former Newcastle duo Scott Parker and Craig Bellamy combined for the latter to lift his shot over Shay Given.

The visitors made early second-half pressure tell on 55 minutes when Carlton Cole evaded the offside trap to control Herita Ilunga's long ball on his thigh before thumping a left-footed volley past Given.

Newcastle briefly thought they had levelled when Hammers skipper Lucas Neill slashed the ball into his own goal, but Steven Taylor was penalised for a nudge on James Collins.

However, the Magpies did equalise legitimately on 78 minues when Damien Duff clipped a cross into the box and Carroll's looping header left Green rooted to the spot.

English Premier League Update :

Aston Villa 2 West Brom 1

Arsenal 1 Bolton 0

Everton 2 Hull City 0

Middlesbrough 1 Sunderland 1

Newcastle 2 West Ham 2

Stoke City 0 Liverpool 0

via : Skysports.com

Title rivals meet at Old Trafford

2009-01-09T11:36:00.001-08:00

Ferguson and Scolari: Old Trafford clash

Manchester United and Chelsea warmed up for their vital Premier League showdown with a defeat at Derby and home draw with Southend, respectively.

Hardly the most inspiring of performances from the title rivals, who must put their cup concerns to one side and focus fully on this season's thrilling title battle, with the eagerly-anticipated Old Trafford clash live on Sky Sports 1 and HD1.

Sir Alex Ferguson rested a number of key players for their Carling Cup semi-final, first leg, reverse at Pride Park and the likes of Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo can expect to step back into the starting XI, although the Portugal international may need a lift from one of his team-mates.

Luiz Felipe Scolari similarly tinkered with his line-up for the FA Cup third round draw with Southend, when the Blues saw their unhappy time at Stamford Bridge this season extended by the League One club.

Whispers of dressing room unrest continue to blight the West London club, with Portugal midfielder Deco, who has flattered to deceive for much of the season, being forced to deny suggestions he is only in the team because of his special relationship with 'Felipao'.

via : SKYSPORTS.COM

ROMA vs MILAN : KAKA and TOTTI fire...

2009-01-09T11:36:00.000-08:00

Two of Serie A's biggest clubs will meet at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome on Saturday evening in a potentially decisive encounter. With just hours before the this great contest, Adam Scime looks at some of the key personal match-ups that will take place...

Every great football match is made up of both team and individual battles, and of course the highly anticipated clash between the Giallorossi and the Rossoneri will be no different on Sunday evening.

One intriguing aspect of this show-down could be the Serie A debut of David Beckham, who will no doubt gather plenty of the spotlight whether he is on the pitch or sitting on the substitutes bench.

Both squads are full of experienced, explosive, talented, hard-working, and potentially match-winning players. Not to mention, two of the most highly rated coaches in Italian football in Luciano Spalletti and Carlo Ancelotti.

Head to head person :

1. Luciano Spalletti v Carlo Ancelotti

2. Daniele De Rossi v Kaka

3. Jeremy Menez v Gianluca Zambrotta

4. Mirko Vucinic v Paolo Maldini

5. Philippe Mexes v Ronaldinho

Other Key Players :

David Beckham, Andrea Pirlo , Alberto Aquilani, Christian Abbiat for Milan and Francesco Totti, Alexander Doni for Roma.

via : GOAL.COM

Rio is ready to face Chelsea

2009-01-09T11:03:00.000-08:00

READY TO ROLL ... Rio Ferdinand

RIO FERDINAND is on course to make a dramatic comeback in Sunday’s Old Trafford shootout with Chelsea.

The Manchester United centre-back was expected to miss the titanic clash as he recovers from the back spasm which has kept him sidelined since the draw at Spurs nearly a month ago.

But Ferdinand, 30, has trained fully with the rest of the squad at Carrington for the past two days and, if there is no reaction, he is bang in the running to face Big Phil Scolari’s men.

The England star suffered the injury in the warm-up before the Boxing Day clash at Stoke and has been undergoing rigorous gym work to increase the suppleness in his back.

Meanwhile, United are set to offer 12-month contract extensions to long-serving veteran duo Ryan Giggs and Gary Neville.

Both men are out of contract in the summer and winger Giggs hinted recently he could even call it a day if he did not get another deal.

Yet once the transfer window is closed, Reds chiefs plan to sit down with Giggs, 35, and Neville, 33, and present them with fresh offers.

Long-term, both Neville and Giggs are also likely to be handed coaching roles within the United set-up when they do call it a day as players.

via : http://www.thesun.co.uk/

Premier League is the best in the world

2009-01-07T09:17:00.001-08:00

Premier League is named world's best league for the second time in a row
Photo: Premier League

The English Premier League has been named as the best league in the world for the second time in a row by The International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFHHS).

This feat repeats the achievement in the previous year and is largely due to last season's Champions League, which was dominated by English teams.

The Italian Serie A was in second place after receiving the same number of points as 2007. Italian football has much improved on the field this year, despite its persistent critics with its environment, low attendance in many cities and few up-to-date stadiums.

Argentine Primera Division was third best league in the world as Argentine clubs achieved great success in club competitions of CONMEBOL in 2008.

The shocking news is Spanish La Liga was in fourth place, dropping down from second in 2007. According to the IFFHS, the Spanish clubs did poorly in the Champions League and UEFA Cup, as well as other competitions which are taken into consideration. This caused La Liga to drop 122 points fewer than the previous year.

This classification has been determined annually by the IFFHS since 1991 on the basis of all national (championship, domestic cup) and (inter)continental results of the clubs, and it is recognized as the most precise in rating the leagues of the world.

However, whether the IFFHS is to be considered the legitimate judge as to which league is the best in the world is a debate on its own, because all football fans will side by their favored leagues.

Top 10 World's Best National League in 2008

	Name	Points
1.	England	1192.0
2.	Italy	1031.0
3.	Argentina	1020.0
4.	Spain	952.0
5.	Brazil	942.0
6.	Germany	922.0
7.	France	847.0
8.	Mexico	683.0
9.	Portugal	649.5
10.	Ukraine	620.0

Theo Walcott could leave Arsenal for just £400k

2009-01-06T01:12:00.001-08:00

Theo Walcott could be allowed to leave Arsenal for less than £400k
Photo: Getty Images

Arsenal risk losing Theo Walcott for less than £400,000 as a result of their failure to offer the teenage sensation an extended contract.

The Daily Mirror reports that Walcott has 18 months remaining on his current deal, and the England international is thought to be unhappy that discussions on new terms have yet to begin.

Consequently, it is claimed that Arsenal could lose the former Southampton star for a lowly fee of £400,000 because of a transfer loophole set down in the present FIFA rules.

Because Walcott is only 19, the Gunners would only be able to claim training costs of less than £90,000 for each year he had spent at the club.

It is understood that Spanish giants Real Madrid are aware that, as it stands, Walcott could talk to European clubs next January, while Manchester City, Chelsea and Liverpool are also monitoring the situation very closely.

Walcott could also decide to buy himself out of the last year of his contact for £1m in May, but Arsenal are optimistic that incoming chief executive Ivan Gazidis will immediately get to work on a contract extension once he takes up his new position this month.

Ronaldinho expects European and domestic success

2009-01-05T01:06:00.001-08:00

Ronaldinho laughs with teammate David Beckham during AC Milan training session in Dubai
Photo: REUTERS/Ibrahim El Sanjak

Brazilian ace Ronaldinho is targeting European and domestic success as AC Milan prepare to get back to action for the second half of the season.

Ronaldinho and his team-mates are currently at a training camp in Dubai and do not play again until January 11 when they play AS Roma at Stadio Olimpico.

The Rossoneri’s season has so far been disappointing, but Ronaldinho is confident they can get back on track after this winter break.

He told the club's website, www.acmilan.com: "Our primary target is to play a great UEFA Cup campaign as well as finish the Serie A season in the top spots so we can return to the Champions League next season.

"This preparation is fundamental for the second half of the season, especially as we have the opportunity to bring back many players who were missing through injury.

"At the restart, we immediately have a difficult match against Roma, in a stadium where there is a lot of enthusiasm, but we have to start well.

"It won’t be easy, but the only way to recover nine points from Inter Milan is to work hard and play well. We have every chance of doing it, because 2009 will be a great year."

The 28-year-old has been enjoying a good spell in Milan following his summer move from Barcelona after a disappointing final season at the Nou Camp.

And Ronaldinho believes he could see out his playing days at the San Siro.

"I don't want to think and I'm not thinking about when I will end my career," he added.

"At the moment, however, I cannot imagine myself in any club other than Milan."

Tevez unfazed by deal delay

2009-01-04T11:36:00.000-08:00

Tevez: Uncertain future

United striker still expects to sign permanent contract

Carlos Tevez remains optimistic that an agreement can be reached to make his loan deal at Manchester United permanent.

The Argentine ace is set to see his two-year contract with the club come to an end this summer, but is yet to have his long-term future resolved.

Speculation has suggested that he may decide to accept a new challenge away from Old Trafford, with first-team opportunities having proven hard to come by this term.

However, Tevez insists he wants to remain with the reigning Premier League champions and is not reading too much into United's failure to tie him down.

"We have not started talks with Manchester United yet, though I am keen to stay," he declared.

"Sir Alex Ferguson has told me he wants me to remain a United player and that is certainly my desire too.

SKYSPORTS.COM

United cruise past Saints

2009-01-04T11:14:00.000-08:00

Young gun: Welbeck celebrates opener

United beat ten-man Southampton 3-0 to set up Spurs tie

Manchester United cruised past Southampton 3-0 at St Mary's in the FA Cup to set up a fourth round tie with Tottenham at Old Trafford.

The Saints began brightly but it was United who took the lead when Danny Welbeck marked his FA Cup debut with a headed goal on 20 minutes.

The result was put beyond doubt when referee Mike Riley dismissed Southampton striker Matthew Paterson eight minutes before the break for a studs up lunge on Nemanja Vidic.

From there on in Sir Alex Ferguson's men did not have to get out of first gear and the match resembled that of a training session for the world champions.

Nani added a second from the spot three minutes after the break and Darren Gibson rounded off the scoring nine minutes from time to seal a comfortable win.

United could afford to be without Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Tevez and were on top from the kick-off.

Their first opening arrived in the fifth minute courtesy of a fine through ball from Dimitar Berbatov.

The Bulgarian striker cleverly sent Ryan Giggs racing into the penalty area but the United winger's effort was far too high to trouble Kelvin Davis in the Southampton goal.

The gulf in class was beginning to show as the game settled with Anderson and Berbatov providing some moments of real quality.

In the 16th minute, Nani forced Davis into a fine save when the Southampton goalkeeper had to dive low to his right to deny the United striker.

Davis again kept Southampton on level terms two minutes later when he tipped a shot from Anderson over the crossbar.

But the goal United had been threatening finally arrived in the 19th minute through Welbeck.

SKYSPORTS.COM

Argentine veteran named South American Footballer of the Year

2009-01-02T10:27:00.001-08:00

Juan Sebastian Verón wins South American Footballer of the Year
Photo: AP

Argentina’s veteran midfielder Juan Sebastian Verón has been voted the 2008 South American Footballer of the Year by prestigious Uruguayan newspaper El Pais.

The 33-year-old playmaker finished ahead of fellow Argentine Juan Román Riquelme, who guided Argentina to Olympic gold medal in Beijing and recently claimed the Argentine Apertura Championship with Boca Juniors.

Verón joined Estudiantes La Plata from Inter Milan in 2006 and his experience soon allowed him to take a leading role at the club.

Estudiantes finished third in the Clausura Championship earlier this year, and came in seventh in the Apertura which finished this month. More importantly, the club reached the final of the Copa Sudamericana but eventually lost to Brazilian outfit Internacional Porto Alegre.

"One is recognised not only by the people at a local level, but throughout the footballing world," Verón told radio Provincia.

"This prize arrives in a special moment of my life, because my objective is to always be the best in what I do, and I've always thought in this way."

In third place appeared last year’s winner Paraguayan striker Salvador Cabañas of Club America of Mexico.

Another Argentine, Andrés D’Alessandro came out in fourth place despite leading Internacional to the Copa Sudamericana title for the first time.

Liga de Quito goalkeeper José Cevallos rounded out the top five. Cevallos was the hero in his team's Copa Libertadores triumph when he stopped three penalties in the tournament final against Brazilian side Fluminense to claim their first-ever international title.

The award is restricted to South American footballers who are contracted to clubs on the continent and thus cannot be won by any of the South Americans playing in Europe.

However, Verón’s selection was controversial as he did not win any titles as compared to some of the players that ended up behind him in the results.

Old Trafford star rubbishes continued Real speculation

2009-01-01T08:14:00.000-08:00

Ronaldo: At 'home' with United

Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo insists continued speculation linking him with a move to Real Madrid is not true.

Ronaldo dazzled for United last season, scoring 42 goals in all competitions as the Red Devils won the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League.

That form led Spanish champions Real Madrid to pursue the 23-year-old during an unsuccessful summer transfer saga, which angered United manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

However, Real director Pedro Trapote was quoted in December claiming that his club have a deal in place to sign the Ballon D'Or winner at the end of this season.

False

Ronaldo, though, has reiterated that the claim is false, telling United's official website: "There's always speculation, not just about me, but about the future of players all around the world.

"People were speaking about me this summer but that was normal because of what I did during the season.

"What people are saying now (the recent speculation about an agreement with Real Madrid) is not true.

"Who says that is a liar because I am happy at the club, I want to stay here. I feel at home here. I feel very happy here."

Pressure

Meanwhile, Ronaldo admits he felt under pressure to impress after a summer of rumours, but was not worried that fans would turn against him.

"I think the people don't forget quickly what you do for the club," he added. "When I arrived at the stadium, to play (my first game of this season) against Villarreal, I felt a little bit of pressure.

"But the fans were very good and this is why I feel the Manchester United supporters are amazing.

"I love the fans because they have been brilliant with me, not just this season but every season. Like I said before, I feel at home in Manchester."

SKYSPORTS.COM

Pompey - Defoe wants to quit

2009-01-01T08:11:00.000-08:00

Defoe: Tottenham link

Portsmouth executive chairman Peter Storrie admits that star striker Jermain Defoe has expressed an interest in leaving Fratton Park.

The England international has been strongly linked with a January move to Tottenham, where he would be reunited with former Pompey boss Harry Redknapp.

Portsmouth are eager to keep hold of Defoe - who was angered after being left on the bench by manager Tony Adams in a December defeat to Arsenal - as they look to climb the Premier League table.

However, Storrie now confesses that Defoe looks set to quit the South Coast outfit just 12 months after moving from Spurs.

"It looks like Jermain wants to go," he told the Portsmouth News. "That is something we will be speaking to him about."

However, Storrie insists that Pompey will not allow their £7.5million forward - who has also been connected with Aston Villa - to leave in a cut-price deal.

"If Jermain goes it will be at our price and if there is an offer which appeals," added Storrie.

"We have always said we will not keep people who do not want to play for Portsmouth football club."

Spurs boss Redkanpp remains interested in the forward and told Sky Sports News: "If we could agree a fee with Portsmouth, then fine, he is a good player.

"They haven't got to sell him if they don't want to. If they say, 'no' then that is the end of the story."

SKYSPORTS.COM

Joaquín arrived late because of his Ferrari

2008-12-31T22:14:00.001-08:00

Joaquín and his Valencia team-mates during training session
Photo: AP Photo/Fernando Bustamante

Valencia winger Joaquín arrived more than thirty minutes too late on Monday's training session because his car, a Ferrari, wouldn't start.

According to Marca, the former Real Betis player did not appear at the scheduled time and the training session started without him.

When he finally did arrive, he first went to apologize to coach Unai Emery, who luckily for the player isn't as strict on these matters as his predecessor Ronald Koeman.

Following the apology, a thunderous applause and endless jokes have rained from his team-mates.

While being late by itself isn't that unique, the reason in this case certainly is.

After the training session, Joaquín revealed that everything was to blame on his Ferrari, which wouldn't start and left him stranded. He was so infuriated that he broke one of the mirrors.

In addition, he must pay the fine imposed by the internal regulations of the club.

Wenger targets Everton ace

2008-12-31T22:13:00.001-08:00

Mikel Arteta is Arsenal's £12m target

Arsenal boss Arsène Wenger will bid £12 million to sign Everton playmaker Mikel Arteta as a stand-in for the injured Cesc Fàbregas, according to The Sun.

Wenger wants an experienced player who can go straight into his team without needing time to settle in.

Arteta is in his fifth season in the Premier League and would be eligible to play in the Champions League, despite appearing for Everton in the UEFA Cup this season.

It is believed that Wenger had initially hoped to sign Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso, but he knows he does not stand a chance of persuading Rafa Benítez to sell the Spaniard.

Thus, the Frenchman has turned his gaze to the blue half of Merseyside, where dwells Alonso's compatriot, fellow Basque and childhood friend.

Everton paid Real Sociedad some £2 million for Arteta after he impressed during a six-month loan spell at Goodison Park in 2005, and he quickly established himself as one of the most creative and versatile players in the Premier League.

His vision, passing and ability to play anywhere across the midfield has convinced Wenger the former Rangers star is the closest thing to Fàbregas.

Arteta has signed an improved five-year contract at the Toffees in the summer of 2007, but the lure of Champions League football and a higher profile with which finally to claim international recognition, having featured earlier for the U-21s, would be enticing.

Berlusconi would play Beckham immediately

2008-12-30T03:27:00.001-08:00

David Beckham is wanted by AC Milan owner to play along their all-star attack
Photo: AP Photo/Antonio Calanni

AC Milan owner Silvio Berlusconi admits he would like to see his team field David Beckham along with their all-star attack.

Aside from Beckham, Milan's all-star attack includes Brazilians Ronaldinho, Kaká and Pato, Dutch international Clarence Seedorf and Italian playmaker Andrea Pirlo.

Becks has joined Milan on a three-month loan to maintain his fitness and increase his chances for a call from England manager Fabio Capello.

Berlusconi said: "I would immediately play him. With Beckham, Pato, Pirlo, Seedorf, Kaká and Ronaldinho, a goal is guaranteed."

The Milan supremo has also reveaed that the deal came as a shock and was made possible by vice-president Adriano Galliani.

"His signing has also been a surprise for me. It has been a gift," he said.

Maldini hails Ronaldinho

2008-12-30T03:24:00.001-08:00

Maldini: Ronaldinho has settled in well here

AC Milan legend Paolo Maldini has heaped rich praise on Ronaldinho and believes the Brazilian star has integrated into the side well.

In his final year in a playing capacity after a long and glorious career with the Rossoneri, the 40-year-old has found himself playing alongside Brazilian ace Ronaldinho, who signed from Barcelona during the summer.

"I never really knew Ronaldinho before he came here," Maldini told Milan Channel before leaving to Dubai for their annual tour.

"But you can see from the way that he is on the pitch that he is by no means a grumpy player.

"He has incredible quality too. It was the press who criticised him in the past and said lots of things that weren't true, but that's normal when a player is unsettled at his club.

"Ronaldinho has settled in well here and he is always there to give his contribution to the team."

KLASEMEN EPL AKHIR TAHUN 2008

2008-12-29T22:31:00.001-08:00

Pos	Team	P	Pts
1	Liverpool	20	45
2	Chelsea	20	42
3	Manchester United	18	38
4	Arsenal	20	35
5	Aston Villa	19	35
6	Everton	20	32
7	Wigan Athletic	19	28
8	Hull City	19	27
9	Fulham	19	26
10	West Ham United	20	25
11	Bolton Wanderers	20	23
12	Portsmouth	20	23
13	Manchester City	20	22
14	Newcastle United	20	22
15	Sunderland	20	22
16	Tottenham Hotspur	20	20
17	Middlesbrough	20	20
18	Stoke City	20	20
19	Blackburn Rovers	20	18
20	West Bromwich Albion	20	18

Berbatov strike downs Boro

2008-12-29T22:24:00.001-08:00

Berbatov: Scored winner

VIA : SKYSPORTS.COM

A second-half Dimitar Berbatov goal earned Manchester United a crucial three points in their title race catch-up against Middlesbrough at Old Trafford on Monday night.

A win was vital as United started the game ten points off the Premier League summit with three games in hand.

But the champions could not convert their first half dominance into goals, with Cristiano Ronaldo putting their best chance just wide.

After the re-start, United again dominated before finally breaking the deadlock in the 69th minute when Berbatov volleyed home from close range after Michael Carrick's left-wing cross had bounced back off Boro defender David Wheater.

The home side made hard work of dispatching Boro and missed a glut of chances.

Berbatov, who replaced Boxing Day's match-winner at Stoke Carlos Tevez after he returned to Argentina on a "family issue", was one of the guilty culprits in the first hour of the match.

But he was not the only one with Wayne Rooney, Ronaldo, Rafael, Nemanja Vidic and Park Ji-sung all squandering chances.

Credit must go to Boro, especially goalkeeper Ross Turnbull, who put in a disciplined performance which very nearly paid off with a point.

Turnbull was in the action early on turning aside Rooney's 18-yard low curling effort and then palming Ronaldo's resulting cross away from the lurking Berbatov.

Sliced wide

Ronaldo sliced horribly wide and Park had a shot deflected for a corner as United continued to dominate but found Boro's defending resolute.

Then two Ronaldo free-kicks from either side of the pitch went wide and straight at Turnbull.

Midway through the half Afonso Alves' half-hit shot was blocked by Carrick and then shot over after easily turning Vidic to give United a warning they could not afford to switch off.

Ronaldo scuffed Rooney's cross just wide with his weaker foot when he should have hit the target with the Portugal winger also forcing another low save out of Turnbull.

Right-back Rafael also got in on the act when he blazed into the side-netting when the goalkeeper palmed Rooney's left-wing cross into his path.

Rooney should have given the hosts the lead when he sprang the offside trap in the 35th minute but inexplicably chose to pass rather than shoot and although they won a corner Vidic headed a good chance wide.

Two minutes before half-time Chris Riggott produced a superbly-timed block inside the penalty area to deny Berbatov just as he was about to shoot.

In the final action of the half Turnbull's fingertip save denied Rooney after he had picked up Ronaldo's flick-on.

Ronaldo spent much of his walk to the tunnel complaining to referee Martin Atkinson he should have had a penalty after being grappled to the ground by Emanuel Pogatetz at a corner right on the whistle but the official was unmoved.

United were quickly into their stride after the break, although Carrick was caught in two minds as to whether to pass or shoot and ended up scuffing the ball straight to Turnbull.

Boro's determination to keep a clean sheet saw Matthew Bates clatter into Rooney but Atkinson ruled it a fair challenge.

Park booked

However, Park was the first to be booked after hacking down Julio Arca in the 53rd minute.

Boro's first chance of the half saw Alves' shot deflect for a corner off Vidic after a quick counter-attack.

Tuncay could have given the visitors a shock lead in the 62nd minute when he dived to meet Bates' cross into the six-yard area but diverted the ball wide.

An indication things were not going United's way was when Park's shot was stopped by Vidic from Rooney's left-wing free-kick.

Moments later the South Korea midfielder was denied again from long range by the outstanding Turnbull, with Ronaldo driving wide on the turn from United's next attack.

But Berbatov finally made the breakthrough in the 69th minute when he volleyed home from close range after Carrick's cross from the left had rebounded off Wheater.

Park then produced a contender for miss of the season when he somehow ballooned over from three yards from substitute Gary Neville's cross, although the referee blew for offside.

Turnbull again stopped a Ronaldo thunderbolt as United pressed for a second with Carrick curling a 20-yard shot wide.

However, United had done enough to close the gap on Liverpool to seven points with two matches in hand.

Manchester United	Team Statistics	Middlesbrough
1	Goals	0
0	1st Half Goals	0
8	Shots on Target	0
17	Shots off Target	5
9	Blocked Shots	4
8	Corners	4
12	Fouls	20
1	Offsides	2
2	Yellow Cards	0
0	Red Cards	0
85.7	Passing Success	74.4
20	Tackles	18
85	Tackles Success	83.3
62.4	Possession	37.6
53.1	Territorial Advantage	46.9

Man Utd v Boro preview

2008-12-29T10:44:00.001-08:00

Southgate: Old Trafford test

29th December 2008

Champions aiming to close gap; Boro aching for positive result

Manchester United aim to make up ground in the title race when they tackle Middlesbrough on Monday night.

The Red Devils trail leaders Liverpool by 10 points but hold three games in hand, following their participation in the Fifa Club World Cup.

United are unbeaten in six matches but will be wary of a Boro team that has fared well at Old Trafford in the past, with the Teessiders previously shocking their opponents three times in the Premier League.

The two teams met earlier this season in the Carling Cup with Sir Alex Ferguson's men triumphing, although the game was marred by a wild tackle from Emanuel Pogatetz on Rodrigo Possebon.

Gareth Southgate's Boro currently find themselves in 17th - above the relegation places on goal difference - and the manager will be desperate of a lift after their last top-flight win came in November.

Changes

United captain Rio Ferdinand is to sit out the game with a troublesome back injury, while left-back Patrice Evra serves the second game of a four-match ban.

Brazilian full-back Rafael could be set for a role, while Jonny Evans is likely to continue his partnership alongside Nemanja Vidic in the heart of defence.

Summer signing Dimitar Berbatov may be handed a start as Ferguson considers freshening up his starting XI following Boxing Day's testing win at Stoke City.

For Boro, Southgate is set to bring back David Wheater to shore up his back-line after the home-grown central defender spent the last two games on the bench.

And Southgate also has options up front with Brazilian Afonso Alves pushing for a recall, although the game will come too soon for Frenchman Didier Digard, who is ruled out with a groin strain.

Possible starting XIs

Man Utd: Van der Sar, Rafael, Evans, Vidic, O'Shea, Ronaldo, Carrick, Fletcher, Nani, Rooney, Berbatov.

Middlesbrough: Turnbull, Wheater, Huth, Pogatetz, Taylor, Johnson, Arca, Shawky, Downing, Aliadiere, Tuncay.

SKYSPORTS.COM

Gerrard stars in rout of Newcastle

2008-12-28T12:01:00.001-08:00

Getty Images

Steven Gerrard (R) scored two goals for Liverpool, which maintained its EPL lead with a 5-1 win over Newcastle United on Sunday.

by Simon Rushworth

NEWCASTLE, England (AFP) - Liverpool maintained their grip on first place in the Premier League table with a stunning 5-1 win against a toothless Newcastle United here at St James' Park on Sunday.

Reds captain Steven Gerrard scored twice and had had it not been for Newcastle goalkeeper Shay Given, the hosts could have been on the wrong end of a double-figure disaster after being completely outclassed.

The Republic of Ireland international made five world-class saves in 10 minutes to prevent Newcastle from total capitulation before the midway point of the first-half.

Liverpool assistant manager Sammy Lee said: "I think we are improving with every game we play and that is all we can look for. You haven't seen the best of Liverpool yet.

"You win nothing in December but you can certainly lose a lot. We're very pleased to be going into the New Year at the top."

Newcastle boss Joe Kinnear - whose 62nd birthday celebrations on Sunday have been distinctly muted having been beaten by Wigan on Friday and now Liverpool - said that his depleted side had not been able to hold off the attacking hordes from Liverpool.

"We were short of six or seven players and everything that could go against us did go against us.

"We had to play one of the best teams I've seen for a long while. You have to take your hat off to Liverpool. They were in command for a long time and could have put the game to bed in the first half."

Arsenal target Given began his run of jaw-dropping stops in the 10th minute as he pushed away a fierce near post strike from lone Liverpool forward Dirk Kuyt.

Within a minute England midfielder Gerrard weaved his way around three United defenders only to see his left foot shot palmed away by Given.

However, the onslaught had only just begun and in the 14th minute the Magpies 'keeper denied Gerrard again as he sprung to his right to claw away a rising left footed shot.

But that stunning save was eclipsed by an even better show of agility five minutes later as Given denied the Brazilian midfielder Lucas from point-blank range.

When the former Gremio player saw his header, from a Gerrard corner, beaten away by the Newcastle goalkeeper moments later, the visitors must have begun to fear this would be no easy win on Tyneside.

United, for their part, had barely managed to break beyond halfway and the Magpies' owner, Mike Ashley, must have been wondering whether he had been premature in announcing his decision to take the club off the market for the foreseeable future.

If his aim had been to usher in a period of calm at St James' Park, the effect had not extended to the pitch.

Liverpool continued to press forward at will and two goals before half-time appeared to end the game as a contest.

Inevitably, given his sensational start to the match, it was Gerrard who broke the deadlock in the 31st minute when he drilled Yossi Benayoun's pass in off the post.

Poor Given had no opportunity to reprise his heroics and the Irishman was stranded again five minutes later when defender Sami Hyypia was given the freedom of the Newcastle penalty area to head home Gerrard's corner.

The experienced Finn could have grabbed a second three minutes before the break only for a diving Given to push the ball into the path of Newcastle's Charles N'Zogbia, who cleared.

These were torrid times for United but, incredibly, Canada international defender David Edgar reduced the arrears on the stroke of half-time by heading in Danny Guthrie's corner.

Liverpool's third, five minutes after the restart, had an element of luck about it, with referee Mark Halsey failing to spot Lucas's hand ball. But Dutch international Ryan Babel tapped-in from five yards despite being surrounded by Newcastle players.

Gerrard grabbed his second from Lucas's astute through ball in the 66th minute.

And when substitute Xabi Alonso wrapped things up with a well taken penalty 13 minutes from time with Gerrard off the field, after his fellow replacement David Ngog had been brought down by Edgar, Liverpool could celebrate heading into 2009 on top of the Premier League pile.

via : http://sports.yahoo.com

Premier League preview

2008-12-28T03:44:00.001-08:00

Toon host Reds, as Sbragia makes permanent bow

Several mouth-watering match-ups are in the offing as the Premier League gears up for a second round of festive fixtures in the space of just 48 hours.

Boxing Day's encounters threw up numerous crackers, and Sky Sports 1 & HD1 sandwiches Sunday's live action, starting at St James' Park at midday.

Joe Kinnear's Newcastle United, who suffered their first loss in seven outings against Wigan Athletic, host Liverpool in what has proved to be an enthralling clash in the past, as Michael Owen faces his former club while the league leaders aim to continue their hunt for a first league title since 1990.

Manchester City manager Mark Hughes then returns to his old stomping ground at Blackburn Rovers in the last of Sunday's games. Hughes, who was in charge at Ewood Park for four years, will be seeking to build on the 5-1 mauling of Hull City when he locks horns with recently appointed Rovers chief Sam Allardyce.

Arsenal tackle Portsmouth in one of six 2pm kick-offs, as former Gunners captain Tony Adams returns to North London. Adams has come under pressure of late following three successive losses, while the inconsistent Gunners must address reclaiming fourth place before contemplating a title push.

Ricky Sbragia will lead his Sunderland charges for the first time since being named as Roy Keane's permanent successor, when the club head to Goodison Park to face Everton. Sbragia impressed during his short caretaker reign, taking seven points from a possible 12, and was rewarded with the position on Saturday.

Luiz Felipe Scolari's second-placed Chelsea got back on track at home on Friday and next make the short trip to West London rivals Fulham . Roy Hodgson has proved to be a huge success at Craven Cottage, with his charges currently unbeaten in the top flight since 1st November, and ruthless in defence.

Bottom-of-the-table West Bromwich Albion welcome Harry Redknapp's Tottenham Hotspur, who sit outside of the drop zone on goal difference, to The Hawthorns. The Baggies could aim to seize on their opponents' dip in form, with Spurs without victory in their last three attempts.

Stoke City slipped into the relegation places after their late loss against Manchester United and will be eager to rediscover winning ways when they face Gianfrano Zola's West Ham United at Upton Park. The Hammers will go into the game buoyed by an impressive win on the South Coast - their first in five encounters.

Two sides in contrasting form do battle at the Reebok Stadium, with Bolton Wanderers suffering defeat in three of their last four fixtures and Wigan Athletic managing four victories in five attempts. Just two points separate the mid-table pair, with a push for a European berth this term a realistic possibility for both.

Beckham at risk of terrorist attack

2008-12-28T03:41:00.001-08:00

David Beckham is surrounded by security guard as he walks in Milan
Photo: AP Photo / Alberto Pellaschiar

AC Milan new signings David Beckham will be surrounded by 24-hour guards on high alert when he arrives in Dubai on Monday amid fears of a terrorist attack.

Fear of a terrorist attack surrounds the superstar as he prepares to make his debut for the Rossoneri in the Middle East next week.

Becks will spark the state’s biggest ever security operation after British intelligence at MI6 has suggested a terror attack could happen 'at any time.'

Beckham, who is on loan to the Italian giants from LA Galaxy, due to make several public appearances before playing in a friendly match against Hamburg on January 6.

And security forces fear Beckham is an ideal high-profile target for Al-Qaida or Osama Bin Laden sympathisers.

A member of the Beckham security team told the Daily Star: "It’s a huge headache.

"We are planning as if it is a state visit. Security measures could not be any higher.

"We’re used to stars coming to Dubai but what makes this different are the public appearances he will be making – autograph signings and training sessions.

"Fans want to meet him face-to-face and that poses a different kind of risk to what we normally see."

The England midfielder will be watched by armed guards 24 hours a day. It is also expected that the roads around venues where he will be training will be sealed off.

And fans will be forced to pass through airport-style scanning machines before being allowed anywhere near Beckham.

The Foreign Office upped its threat level for Dubai earlier this year to 'high.' Its current warning to British travellers states: "We believe terrorists may be planning to carry out attacks in the UAE. Attacks could be indiscriminate and could happen at any time."

Beckham was previously warned about security in Dubai when he bought an £800,000 property on the Palm Jumeirah – the man-made island shaped like a palm tree – in 2002.

An attack on the getaway has been feared since it was featured in a video made by Osama bin Laden’s supporters in 2006.

Fernando Torres: We'll defeat Real

2008-12-28T03:40:00.001-08:00

Fernando Torres is confident Liverpool will overcome Real Madrid
Photo: AP Photo/Paul Thomas

Liverpool striker Fernando Torres believes his side will beat Real Madrid in their Champions League clash on February.

The Reds are unbeaten in this year's competition but now face a tricky test as they paired against the nine-time champions in the last 16.

Torres faced European heartbreak last season as Liverpool were knocked out in the semi-finals by Chelsea.

However, El Niño is confident that a place in the quarter-finals will be heading to Anfield.

"We all realise that it is going to be a tough tie against Real Madrid," he wrote on his personal site, www.fernando9torres.com.

"I don't like talking about a possible favourite, but I am sure that we are going to qualify for the next round."

Still, the former Atlético Madrid hero admitted he has not had much luck against the Spanish giants previously.

"When I was playing my football in Spain, I used to score a lot against Barcelona," he added. "But I found it harder when playing versus Real Madrid."

Amauri dreams of Brazil despite mum tells him to opt Azzurri

2008-12-28T03:38:00.001-08:00

Amauri wants to play for the Brazilian national team
Photo: AP Photo/Massimo Pinca

Juventus striker Amauri admitted his dream is of playing for the Brazilian national team, in spite of the words of his mother, who recommended her son to play for the Italian national team.

Amauri was born in Brazil but he will be acquiring Italian citizenship in the new year, meaning he has a tough choice to make as he is eligible to play for either country.

The 28-year-old has always stated his ambition to play for the Seleçao, but reports over the last month had suggested that he would opt to play for the Azzurri after continually being snubbed by Seleçao boss Carlos Dunga.

But Dunga has slightly opened the door for Amauri and the player wouldn’t reject a call if it preceded his Italian citizenship.

"I know that Italy are considering me, but I am Brazilian," he said.

"It's an honor to know that both teams want me, but if the Seleçao's call up came I would realise a dream. Since I heard Dunga's words about me, I'm the happiest person in the world.

"The passport issue has nothing to do with the Italian national team. I need it to become an EU player, it's important because it could open doors for me, to the Premier League for example.

"Since I have never been called up for Brazil, they are thinking of calling me up for Italy, but for me the important thing is to become an EU player."

"It’s all down to bureaucracy now. My passport could arrive in a few days or a few months. It might be ready for the start of the year."

Earlier, Amauri's mum, Janet Oliveira, has commented over her son's international future.

She told Brazilian website Terra: "Amauri's dream is to play for Brazil, but to be honest, I think he should play for Italy because this country has given him so much.

"My son has had it tough in the past. He had trials for Palmeiras and Santos and he was not picked, no-one believed in him.

"I would be happy for whoever Amauri plays for, even Brazil."

Asked to react on his mother's comments, Amauri said: "She said that? After the interview I will ask her why.

"In spite of everything, my family respects my decision. They all know it was my decision."

Cannavaro snubs transfer rumours

2008-12-28T03:37:00.001-08:00

Fabio Cannavaro insists he wants to remain at Real Madrid
Photo: AP Photo/Paul White

Real Madrid defender Fabio Cannavaro has ruled out an imminent move back to Italy, claiming his first priority is to extend his contract.

Italian sports daily Corriere dello Sport reported earlier this week that AC Milan are preparing a bid for the Italy captain as his current contract with Real is set to expire next summer.

However, Cannavaro, who has also been heavily linked with a return to his hometown club Napoli, insists he is committed to the Spanish champions.

He told Spanish sports daily AS: "AC Milan? I didn't read anything of that.

"At the moment I'm concentrating on taking advantage of the holiday with my family and I have on thing that's clear: I'm only thinking about Madrid and I feel like a Madridista.

"The first thing I am going to do is talk with Madrid because I have already said many times that staying here is my first choice.

"At the moment I don't want to talk about Milan nor about any other club.

"Recently it hasn't been a good time to talk about renewing. Everyone has to know that first comes the team and then personnel.

"When January comes we'll talk with Madrid with more intensity. I'm not in a rush because I know that the club and my team-mates want me.

"I think that I will stay at Madrid but it's clear that anything can happen in football.

"For example, Roberto Carlos who played here for 11 years left Real Madrid."

Ronaldo starts Corinthians training

2008-12-27T07:08:00.001-08:00

Ronaldo trains at his new club Corinthians
Photo: AP Photo/Andre Penner

Ronaldo was the main attraction at the Corinthians' first team training on Friday as the Brazilian superstar trained for the first time with the club.

The 32-year-old did not take to the field with the other players. Instead, he worked out for several hours inside the team's gym - out of sight from the nearly 500 fans who filled the stadium seats to watch him practice outside.

Ronaldo showed up at the gym without the team's uniform, but when he saw the army of photographers awaiting him, he retreated back into the dressing room to re-emerge minutes later, wearing the uniform.

Due to the large turnout of fans and the media to watch Ronaldo's first training, Corinthians had to adopt special protective measures to guarantee the security of Ronaldo and the team's facilities, as national and international journalists were present at São Jorge Park to witness the return of the Phenomenon.

During the 2008 season, photographers and media personnel were allowed to enter the facility with ease. However, due to the arrival of Ronaldo, a protective glass window was installed to prohibit the access those not related to the team.

After the practice was over, the Corinthians staff restricted the press access to the lobby where players entered and left the facility.

The three-time FIFA World Player of the Year suffered a third major knee injury of his career while playing for AC Milan against Livorno in February.

This month he signed a one-year deal with Corinthians with a one-year option and an opt-out clause for any time.

Fàbregas faces three months absence

2008-12-23T09:55:00.001-08:00

Cesc Fàbregas will be out for three months due to knee injury
Photo credit: AP Photo

Arsenal captain Cesc Fàbregas is set to spend the next three months on the sidelines after damaging his knee in Sunday's 1-1 draw with Liverpool.

The 21-year-old midfielder suffered medial ligament damage of his right knee in a 50-50 challenge with compatriot Xabi Alonso.

Fàbregas, who has been battling a knee problem for a month, was close to tears as he limped off at half-time at the Emirates.

He left the ground on crutches and admitted: "I have negative thoughts about the injury."

Initial examinations have highlighted the severity of the injury, and the findings at this point are far from encouraging for Fàbregas or the Gunners.

A close friend of Fàbregas told The Sun: "He has been told he will not be available until the end of March, which means he will miss the next round of the Champions League and a number of crucial Premier League matches."

That prognosis could become even grimmer if the Spain star will need surgery to repair the problem.

Premier League round-up: 10-man Chelsea survive at Everton

2008-12-23T05:47:00.001-08:00

Chelsea skipper John Terry is sent off by referee Phil Dowd
Photo credit: The Sun

Everton

0 - 0

Chelsea

Chelsea had captain John Terry sent off for a reckless challenge but were able to hold Everton to a goalless draw at Goodison Park.

Terry was shown a straight red card in the 35th minute for a studs-up lunge on Leon Osman which caused plenty of controversy.

The England captain launched himself at Osman and ball with studs up and both feet off the ground. He was not particularly high but he was particularly dangerous and the Everton man went flying as Terry slid through him, leaving referee Phil Dowd with no option but to brandish a red card.

Terry was also sent off at Manchester City in September and the decision was rescinded, but he is unlikely to be so lucky this time.

Chelsea were infuriated, and the arguments were still going on as the teams headed down the tunnel at halftime with boss Luiz Felipe Scolari fuming at the referee, accusing him of being afraid of the crowd.

Unsurprisingly, Everton dominated possessions after the break, but they fired rather too many aimless balls into the box, where Petr Čech was commanding in the air.

Then, with five minutes left on the clock, Goodison Park erupted when Steven Pienaar bundled the ball out of Čech’s hands and into the net.

The joy was shortlived, though, as the South African adjudged to have been offside before stealing the ball out of Čech's hands.

The result halted Chelsea’s run of 11 consecutive away wins, with eight under Scolari this season.

Fàbregas faces three months absence

2008-12-23T05:43:00.001-08:00

Cesc Fàbregas will be out for three months due to knee injury
Photo credit: AP Photo

Amauri enjoys life at Juventus

2008-12-23T05:42:00.001-08:00

Amauri - Happy at Turin
Photo credit: AFP/Damien Meyer

Amauri has spoken of his contentment at how things have developed over the past few months following his move from Palermo to Juventus in the summer.

The Brazilian striker has been one of the main protagonists for the Bianconeri in this first part of the season, having scored 11 goals in 17 matches in a Juve shirt.

Although he faces a fight for his position when French star David Trezeguet returns from injury in 2009, Amauri has every reason to feel positive.

"I have adapted to life at Juventus really well," he told TGS Studio Sport. "I'm continuing to play at the level I reached at Palermo.

"Over the last six months I have learned a lot and I'm seeing the benefit of years of work.

"Juventus is a club which take care of every detail and allows you to work well, improving all of your weaknesses.

"I have a wonderful rapport with the fans and there is always a lot of enthusiasm in Turin."

Beckham: I'm here for football - not fashion

2008-12-21T07:50:00.000-08:00

AC Milan scarves with the name of David Beckham are seen outside the San Siro
Photo credit: AP Photo/Alberto Pellaschiar via Yahoo!News

AC Milan new signing David Beckham insists that he is in Milan for football and nothing to do with fashion and celebrity.

The football superstar is bringing plenty of celebrity buzz with him to Italy. He is married to fashion icon Victoria Beckham and the player himself has done underwear ads for the Milanese designer Armani.

But Beckham claims Milan's status as Europe's fashion capital did not enter into his decision.

The 33-year-old said: "Fashion had nothing to do with my choice in coming to Milan.

"The red and black shirt was everything.

"It was an idea I had and I wanted to find out if it was possible.

"I didn’t know whether Milan and Mr Galliani would accept.

"It was a dream at first but when I asked the question it became reality.

"It’s a dream come true but definitely not about the fashion even though it’s a beautiful place."

Beckham's Milan shirt is sure to become a wanted fashion item.

He added: "The number 32 is one that Milan asked me if I wanted.

"It was probably the first number they offered me.

"I said yes straight away because I would have worn any number to play here."

His wife Victoria sat in the front row during the news conference wearing a slim-fitting short-sleeved dress, black gloves and stiletto heels.

She and the couple's three boys will remain in Los Angeles for most of her husband's stint.

"They're going to be staying in school, but we're going to be coming over as much as we can," she said. "We're very, very excited."

Man United win Club World Cup

2008-12-21T07:49:00.000-08:00

Manchester United captain Rio Ferdinand raises the Club World Cup trophy
Photo credit: AP Photo/Koji Sasahara via Yahoo!News

Manchester United were crowned world champions after a deserved 1-0 victory over LDU Quito in the final of the FIFA Club World Cup at the Yokohama Stadium.

The European champions dominated the first half but were unable to break the deadlock as Quito goalkeeper José Cevallos was called into action on several occasions.

The former Ecuador international had made a series of superb saves to deny Carlos Tévez, Wayne Rooney and Park Ji-Sung.

It looked like it might get tougher for United when centre-back Nemanja Vidić was handed a straight red card four minutes into the second half for lashing out with an elbow at Claudio Bieler.

But United remained on top and Cristiano Ronaldo brought a good save out of Cevallos from the edge of the area.

Rooney, who scored a brace in the 5-3 win over Gamba Osaka in the semifinal, finally broke the deadlock on 73 minutes as the forward drove a low right foot effort from the edge of the area beyond Cevallos.

Rooney picked up the Golden Ball for player of the tournament with Ronaldo voted runner-up.

The only bad news for United is they will now miss Vidić for the first leg of the Champions League last 16 against Inter Milan at San Siro.

Van Persie believes in miracles

2008-12-21T03:56:00.000-08:00

Gunners striker seeks vital scalp on Sunday

Van Persie: Aiming to shoot down Reds

Robin van Persie has admitted it is a 'miracle' Arsenal are still in the title race ahead of the vital clash with Liverpool on Sunday, live on Sky Sports 1 & HD1.

The Gunners, who have lost five Premier League games this season, host Rafa Benitez's charges at Emirates stadium aware that victory would bring them within five points of the leaders.

Van Persie is eager for Arsenal to continue their fine record against the 'big four' while he insists that his team-mates fully believe they can lift the title this term.

The Dutchman said in the News of the World: "Yes, it's a miracle we are still in it - but we still believe we can win it.

"It's true five defeats before Christmas is not good, it is too much and normally you would say, 'that's it, it is all over.'

Shot down

"If you look at Chelsea and Man United in recent years they have been so consistent. They were winning every time. But they're not now.

"The top four teams are all dropping points and that means we still have a chance. Yes, we have lost to Fulham, Stoke and Hull City - which is wrong because we are the better team.

"But we have also beaten Man United and Chelsea. Now if we beat Liverpool it is wide open again.

"If we beat them we are only five points behind them and it's still not even half way, so we are definitely still in it.

"As for me, I shot down Chelsea and now I'm aiming to do the same to Liverpool, I hope I can."

Source : Skysports.com

Premier League round-up: Villa up to third

2008-12-21T03:55:00.001-08:00

Steve Sidwell, Ashley Young and James Milner celebrate Lucas Neill's own goal
Photo credit: The Sun

West Ham

0 - 1

Aston Villa

Lucas Neill(o.g) 87

Aston Villa moved into the top three of the Premier League as a Lucas Neill own goal handed the Villans a 1-0 victory over West Ham at Upton Park.

Martin O'Neill's young English players have given Villa fans real hope of breaking into the top four, but an American veteran in goal is also playing his part.

Summer signing Brad Friedel produced a string of top-class saves from Craig Bellamy, Carlton Cole and Calum Davenport to deny West Ham a possible match-winning position, leaving him saluted by his boss as an all-time great.

England winger Ashley Young struck the post after being gifted possession by Scott Parker as the visitors had the best of the chances in the first 45 minutes.

But Hammers' hitman Bellamy regularly tormented the Villa backline with his pace, forcing Friedel into a fine low save.

Friedel also parried a long-range effort from Valon Behrami after Curtis Davies had given the ball away cheaply.

Cole had good opportunity in the 64th minute but his first shot was blocked by Luke Young, then Friedel produced a reflex save to stop the second.

The match looked set for a goalless stalemate but James Milner's hopeful backpost ball caught Neill on 78 minutes to deflect wickedly over the wrong-footed Robert Green.

Friedel then saved a close-range effort from Davenport to keep all three points.

The victory saw O'Neill's men leapfrogged Manchester United in the table, while the Hammers' fifth defeat in six matches on their home turf keeps them just one point and one place above the relegation zone.

Elsewhere in Premier League on Saturday:

Blackburn

3 - 0

Stoke

Bolton

2 - 1

Portsmouth

Fulham

3 - 0

Middlesbrough

Hull

1 - 4

Sunderland

La Liga round-up: Ramos secure first win; Atlético overtake Valencia

2008-12-21T03:53:00.000-08:00

Real Madrid striker Gonzalo Higuaín celebrates after scoring against Valencia
Photo credit: AP Photo/Victor R. Caivano via Yahoo!News

Real Madrid

1 - 0

Valencia

Gonzalo Higuaín 4

Juande Ramos secured his first La Liga victory as Real Madrid boss in his second league game in charge thanks to a hard-fought 1-0 win over 10-man Valencia.

The home side were handed a perfect start as they were ahead after just four minutes. Gonzalo Higuaín scored his 11th league goal of the season from Arjen Robben's pass after the winger taken the ball past Carlos Marchena and Asier del Horno.

The visitors almost fell two goals behind in the 16th minute when Rafael van der Vaart struck the inside of the post with a curling effort following good work by Higuaín.

Van der Vaart then brought another save out of Renan from a free-kick, before Robben squandered a clear chance on 31 minutes.

David Villa then wasted an opportunity in the 36th minute and saw his effort denied by a fine stop from Iker Casillas two minutes later.

Casillas then produced what could be one of the saves of the season to somehow tip Rubén Baraja's close range header onto the post when a goal looked a certainty.

Higuaín rattled the crossbar from close range on the hour, shortly before Marchena was shown a second yellow card for bringing down Robben on the edge of the area.

Guti also blazed a late chance over as Real dominated the remainder of the match aside from several nervous moments in the closing stages.

The win ended Real's run of three straight defeats and moved it up to fifth place while Valencia dropped to third place.

Atlético Madrid striker Sergio Agüero celebrates his goal with team-mate Diego Forlán
Photo credit: REUTERS/Susana Vera via Yahoo!News

Espanyol

2 - 3

Atlético Madrid

Sergio Sánchez 58

Maxi 7

Valdo 90

Sergio Agüero 81

Maxi 90

In Saturday's late game, Atlético Madrid capitalised on Valencia's defeat by running out 3-2 winners at Espanyol to leapfrog El Che into second place in the table.

And they got off to an ideal start as former Espanyol man Maxi Rodríguez fired the opener after just seven minutes.

Espanyol almost hit back after 14 minutes when Pablo's error let in Jose Callejón, but the forward saw his effort well saved by Atlético keeper Leo Franco.

Sergio Agüero should have doubled the visitors' lead after 33 minutes, but after creditably staying on his feet under pressure from Daniel Jarque he angled his shot just wide of the far post.

Espanyol leveled in the 58th minute when right back Sergio Sánchez latched on to Nicolás Pareja's pass and lashed home past Franco.

However, the visitors regained their advantage nine minutes from time as Agüero bundled the ball home from a difficult angle after Espanyol defenders had blocked his initial two attempts.

Maxi added the crucial third goal with a solo effort in injury time before Espanyol substitute Valdo reduced the deficit with almost the last kick of the match.

IBISEVIC JOIN TO INTERNAZIONALE

2008-12-21T03:49:00.000-08:00

Could Inter feature an Ibra-Ibi strike-force next season?...

galleria zoom

The latest reports in Italy suggest that Serie A champion Inter are keeping close tabs on Hoffenheim goal-machine Vedad Ibisevic.

The Bosnian hit-man has taken the Bundesliga by storm this season scoring 18 goals in his first 17 matches firing Hoffenheim to the top of the table in the process.

That form has understandably brought transfer speculation with it and Inter are just the latest clubs on a rapidly growing list of admirers that already includes Bayern Munich and reportedly also Manchester United.

The 24-year-old has, however, seemingly ruled out leaving the Sinsheim club next season.

"The enquiries from other clubs make me a bit proud," Ibisevic said in a recent interview.

"But I will definitively stay with Hoffenheim next season."

Ibisevic’ current deal runs until 2010.

Hoffenheim striker Ibisevic on Inter Milan radar

Hoffenheim striker Vedad Ibisevic has emerged as a target for Inter Milan.

Tuttosport says the prolific Bosnia international is being discussed by Inter directors as they prepare a major overhaul of their attacking department next year.

Adriano's future is under a cloud, while Argentine veterans Hernan Crespo and Julio Cruz are also likely to be on their way.

At 24, Ibisevic is seen by Inter coach Jose Mourinho as ideal cover for Zlatan Ibrahimovic and he has discussed the forward's situation with transfers chief Marco Branca.

source : www.goal.com

Serie A round-up: Maicon sinks Siena

2008-12-21T03:22:00.000-08:00

Inter Milan defender Maicon takes off his jersey to celebrate after scoring against Siena
Photo credit: AP Photo/Marco Vasini via Yahoo!News

Siena

1 - 2

Inter Milan

Houssine Kharja 44

Maicon 34

Maicon 83

Brazilian full-back Maicon scored twice as Inter Milan beat Siena 2-1 to move nine points clear at the top of the Serie A table.

Siena began brightly and should have taken the lead in the first minute but Inter goalkeeper Júlio César did well to deflect away Houssine Kharja's shot from the edge of the penalty area.

But it was the visitors who went ahead on 34 minutes as Maicon fired home Mario Balotelli's corner at the near post.

Lowly Siena did not go down without a fight and Kharja headed home the equaliser a minute before the break to ensure it was level at half-time.

However, the Serie A leaders were not to be denied and Siena were unable to fight back a second time when Maicon bagged his second of the game seven minutes from time.

The winner was disputed, as Siena protested vehemently for offside.

An unperturbed Maicon paid no heed as he rushed to celebrate with coach José Mourinho, tearing off his shirt and getting booked for his excessive celebrations in the process.

Siena strove to get the equaliser and the visiting fans had to endure a nail-biting final few minutes as César's goal was besieged by the Tuscan team.

In Saturday's evening kick-off, Lazio, who had gone five matched without a win, returned to winning ways with a 1-0 success over Palermo.

Milan prepare 'Welcome Party' for Beckham

2008-12-19T06:11:00.000-08:00

David Beckham will be officially unveiled as an AC Milan player on Saturday
Photo credit: AP Photo/Gus Ruelas via Yahoo!News

AC Milan announced that they will officially introduce English superstar David Beckham to fans and media at San Siro on Saturday evening with live television coverage.

At 18:00 UK time, Beckham will be paraded in front of fans around the San Siro and the event will be screened live on both Sky Italia television and Milan Channel.

The former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder will then salute the Milan fans before their home match against Udinese.

Becks will be joining the Rossoneri on a short-term loan deal in order to allow him to maintain his fitness during LA Galaxy's off-season.

It is believed that Beckham will be accompanied by his wife, Victoria, and he will visit the club's Milanello training complex and undergo a medical.

The 33-year-old is due to leave Milan on Monday but return a week later on December 29 so that he can travel with the squad to Dubai for their winter training camp.

Italian press reports claim the Beckhams will stay in a hotel in the Lombardy countryside, well away from the centre of Milan, during the two-and-a-half-months loan period.

Tévez confident of United deal

2008-12-17T04:02:00.000-08:00

Carlos Tevez claims he is happy to stay and ready to pen a new deal with Manchester United
Photo credit: AP Photo/Jon Super via Yahoo!News

Argentina striker Carlos Tévez believes he is close to signing a permanent contract at Manchester United.

His current agreement of a two-year loan contract at Old Trafford is due to come to an end next year.

Tévez has been linked with a move away from England following the arrival of Dimitar Berbatov in August, but he insists he is happy to stay and ready to pen a new deal.

He told Argentine daily Ole: "We have been talking about it and everything is very advanced, as a consequence I think it will be sorted soon.

"I feel respected by my team-mates and by the technical staff."

Tévez claims that he is happy to fight for his starting place in Sir Alex Ferguson's starting XI.

"I think it's part of my life," he added. "Everywhere I have been I had to fight and it ended up with titles.

"I think that God tests me, not each year, but each month and at the end of the day, winning league titles makes me feel great.

"The only club I didn't win any title with was West Ham, but people told me, regarding the way we escaped, that it was like winning one.

"I can't explain how happy I am when I win a title after a massive fight. I prefer it this way. That's the story of my life. I have overcome obstacles since I was a kid.

"And right now I'm not going to change. I'm at the best club in the world and fighting for your position is normal."

Eduardo returns for Arsenal

2008-12-17T04:01:00.000-08:00

Eduardo da Silva back in action with Arsenal jersey
Photo credit: AP Photo/Tom Hevezi via Yahoo!News

Eduardo da Silva played 45 minutes for Arsenal's reserve team on Tuesday as he made his long-awaited return from injury.

The Brazilian-born striker fractured his left fibula and dislocated his ankle as a result of Birmingham defender Martin Taylor's crude lunge at St Andrews back in February.

The 25-year-old had been sidelined for 298 days and has had to work hard to battle back to fitness.

He recently resumed training and was played the first half of Tuesday's 2-0 victory over Portsmouth's reserve team before going off with a hamstring injury.

Eduardo said: "I am feeling very happy to have started my first game in 10 months.

"I hope I can do more, and that next time will be better. I just felt something in my hamstring, but in two weeks, I will be all right.

"The injury was very hard for me, but I have had to forget everything bad in my life and went to do some treatment in Brazil where I saw my family and friends, which helped make me strong.

"I need more training and games, and if everything is OK, then hopefully in two weeks I will be ready to play.

"I just want to play like I did before, but maybe I can be better."

Vieira: Denilson can be Gunners' best

2008-12-17T03:58:00.000-08:00

Denilson is praised by former Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira
Photo credit: Getty Images via Telegraph

Former Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira believes Denilson can become one of the best players at the Emirates Stadium.

The 20-year-old midfielder signed for the Gunners from São Paulo in 2006 and has emerged as Arsène Wenger’s first-choice midfield partner for captain Cesc Fàbregas following the departure of Gilberto Silva and Mathieu Flamini.

Vieira, who played for Arsenal for nine years, feels the youngster can fill Flamini's boots and go on to be a star in North London.

"He's a wonderful player," Vieira said. "It's not going to be easy for him because Flamini was a good player.

"We need to give him more time to develop as a player but he can be one of the best players at the club. The more he plays the better he will be.

"He is young and has so many qualities and he's only in his first years of playing in the Premier League.

"He and Fabregas can play together, all the good players can play together."

Fergie - Luck abandoned United: Old Trafford boss pleased with performance in North London

2008-12-14T03:14:00.000-08:00

Ferguson: Satisfied with performance

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson felt his suffered from bad luck in their goalless draw at Tottenham Hotspur.

With Arsenal and Liverpool drawing earlier on Saturday and Chelsea not in action until Sunday, defending champions United had the chance to close the gap at the top of the Premier League.

However, after a stalemate in North London, in which home goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes priduced a superb injury-time save to deny Ryan Giggs, United remain six points off leaders Liverpool.

Ferguson was pleased with the performance of his players, but he did not feel the Red Devils had the rub of the green in the capital.

Intensity

"It is not a bad result," said Ferguson. "We dominated the game for the most part and their goalkeeper has made two fantastic saves near the end.

"We just needed that bit of luck or a break close to goal but we didn't get it.

"But you have to admire the intensity of our game. Tottenham have been on a high since Harry Redknapp came.

"There is a bit of life about the club now. You expect to see them higher up the league and I am sure they will be.

Satisfied

"Overall, I am satisfied with the performance."

With Wayne Rooney suspended and Dimitar Berbatov failing to make much of an impression against his old club, United's attack were not firing on all cylinders.

Ferguson admitted Berbatov, bought amid some controversy for £30.75million on transfer deadline day, will have better games.

"It was not his afternoon," said the United boss. "I made the point last week that we needed to start taking our chances, although we did not create that many today."

source : SKYSPORTS.COM

Eto'o earns El Clasico honours

2008-12-14T02:52:00.000-08:00

Eto'o: Zero to hero

Samuel Eto'o atoned for a second-half penalty failure with a late goal to help Barcelona to a 2-0 victory over Real Madrid in El Clasico at the Camp Nou.

The Cameron striker netted in the 83rd minute to ensure new real Madrid manager Juande Ramos failed to enjoy his first domestic game in charge.

And Lionel Messi then made sure of the victory in injury time to allow Barca to move 12 points clear of their fierce rivals.

Eto'o had seen Real goalkeeper Iker Casillas save a penalty earlier in the half as the game looked destined to end in stalemate but the former Bernabeu player went from zero to hero in the closing minutes.

Pep Guardiola's Primera Liga leaders started the first half looking to stamp their authority and began the game brightly.

Fiery

Real, though, had the best chance of a fiery first 45 minutes, in which Messi was singled out for aggressive treatment, as Roysten Drenthe was denied by Victor Valdes when one on one.

Barca then turned the screw after the interval and were rewarded with a penalty when Michel Salgado brought down Sergi Busquets on 70 minutes.

However, Eto'o was denied as the excellent Casillas dived low to his left to palm away the effort.

Eto'o, though, redeemed himself with seven minutes remaining as he prodded home from close range after Carles Puyol had headed down a Xavi corner.

Argentina ace Messi then sealed the victory as he chipped past Casillas in time added on after unselfish work from Thierry Henry.

2-0

Eto'o 83, Messi 90

Match Links

Live Scorecentre
Spanish Primera Liga
13th Dec 2008
KO 21:00
Ground: Camp Nou
Att: 78,000

source : SKYSPORTS.COM