the latest football news in english....

Hargreaves open to Premier approach

2006-08-16T05:14:00.000-07:00

Bayern Munich and England midfielder Owen Hargreaves has invited Premiership clubs to sign him before the transfer window closes

Hargreaves reported for England duty in Manchester on Monday and admitted he still longs for a move to this country.

The Bayern Munich midfielder believes a switch to the Premiership would boost his hopes of cementing a regular place in Steve McClaren's team.

And, after a series of outstanding performances in the World Cup finals, Hargreaves realises that demand for his services may never be higher.

Manchester United have been linked with a move and Tottenham are long-standing admirers of his energetic style.

Canada-born Hargreaves, 25, said: "I said in the past it would be a great opportunity to play here but so far it hasn't worked out.

"There's not much more to say on the topic except I would love to receive the opportunity.

"I'm 25 and I have a contract at Bayern for the next four years but anything's possible. We've seen that in the past.

"The deadline is not until the 31st of August.

"I can't say what will happen between now and then but with the way the World Cup went for me, more English teams have seen what I can offer.

"Before I don't think teams had really seen me play on a regular basis.

"I'm at a fantastic club in Bayern Munich. They've won many things in the past.

"I have already played 40 games in the Champions League and that's something not every club in England can offer."

Hargreaves is expected keep his place in the England team when they take on Greece in a friendly at Old Trafford on Wednesday.

With a new manager at the helm determined to take the team in a new direction, this could be the big chance for the Bayern star to make one of the central midfield places his own.

Hargreaves said: "To have the opportunity to be a regular for England would be something I've dreamt of.

"Every player in the squad has the opportunity to present himself to the new manager. Hopefully I'll get my chance.

"I've been patient in the past and it came. I was patient and I knew I'd get my opportunity but with the new manager coming in every player would like to impress."

Less than three months ago, Hargreaves was booed onto the Old Trafford pitch by England fans, when he came on as a substitute against Hungary.

He returns a hero after supporters voted him the team's best player in the World Cup.

Hargreaves said: "Deep down, I've always had faith in myself that in big games I could play my best so I was quietly confident.

"With an amount of negativity before the World Cup it was difficult at times and I was frustrated but I surrounded myself with the positives.

"Ask if you want a boo or a cheer and you would always have a cheer.

"But I tried not to focus on it. Obviously I was disappointed but I didn't let people know that.

"People would like to see the players in the England team who they see week in and week out.

"I appreciate that. I probably wouldn't agree but I can understand where they're coming from."

Arsenal trio up for 2006 Uefa club football awards.

2006-08-15T04:26:00.000-07:00

Arsenal striker Thierry Henry, keeper Jens Lehmann and defender Emmanuel Eboue have all received nominations for the 2006 Uefa club football awards.

The Gunners trio are up for honours in their respective positions and are also shortlisted for the title of Uefa club footballer of the year 2006.

The coaches of the 16 Champions League knockout stage teams and members of the Uefa technical study group will vote.

Middlesbrough's Mark Viduka is up for the most valuable Uefa Cup player gong.

The awards are to be presented during the draw for the Uefa Champions League group stage in Monaco on 24 August.

The most valuable player of the Uefa Cup will be presented the following day during the draw for that competition.

Spain Summer 2006 Transfers

2006-08-13T09:58:00.000-07:00

The Spanish transfer market is once again buzzing with another summer of frenetic activity as all the top flight clubs rebuild and strengthen their squads in preparation for the new campaign

As the contracts are signed and the deals are done, Goal.com will update all the moves from the all the top-flight clubs as they happen.

Deportivo La Coruña, Getafe and Levante have all been very busy both buying and selling numerous players, while Real Sociedad, Valencia and Villarreal have all thinned their numbers by allowing large numbers to leave.

Here is the complete list of all transfer to date during summer 2006.

ATHLETIC BILBAO

In: Alex García (Racing Santander B), Josu Sarriegi (Alavés), Javi Martínez (Osasuna), Igor Gabilondo (Real Sociedad)

Out: Jesús María Lacruz (Espanyol), Gorka Azkorra (Albacete), Felipe Gurendez (Numancia), Aitor Karanka (Colorado Rapids), Joseba Arriaga (Las Palmas), Javier Tarantino (Numancia one-year loan), Julen Guerrero (Retired), Felipe Guréndez (released), Endika Bordas (released), Miguel Escalona (released)

ATLÉTICO DE MADRID

In: Mista (Valencia), Mariano Pernía (Getafe), Sergio Agüero (Independiente), Giorgios Seitaridis (Dinamo Moscow), Costinha (Dinamo Moscow), Zé Castro (Académica), Miguel de las Cuevas (Hércules)

Out: Cosmin Contra (Getafe), Gonzalo Colsa (Racing Santander), Jorge Larena-Avellanada Roig (Celta Vigo), Manu del Moral (Getafe), José Ignacio Zahinos (Valladolid), José Manuel Jiménez 'Mané' (Almería), Juan Manuel Ortiz (Poli Ejido one-year loan), Javier Pinola (Nürnberg one-year loan), Marcelo Sosa (River Plate one-year loan)

FC BARCELONA

In: Eidur Gudjohnsen (Chelsea), Gianluca Zambrotta (Juventus), Lilian Thuram (Juventus)

Out: Henrik Larsson (Helsingborgs), Maxi López (Mallorca on loan), Gabri (Ajax), Cristian (Deportivo La Coruña), Óscar López (Real Betis), Rodri (Deportivo La Coruña), Ludovic Sylvestre (Sparta Prague), Joan Verdú (Deportivo La Coruña one-year loan), Mario Álvarez (Recreativo one-year loan)

REAL BETIS

In: Damià Abella (FC Barcelona), Tati Maldonado (Lorca), Fernando Vega (Lorca), Romero (Deportivo La Coruña), Óscar López (FC Barcelona)

Out: Fernando Varela (Mallorca), Luis Fernández (Racing Santander), Juan Cañas (Alcalá), Paolo Castellini (released)

CELTA VIGO

In: Nené (Alavés), George Lucas (Gremio), Jorge Larena-Avellanada Roig (Atlético Madrid), Matias Manuel Lequi (Lazio), Antonio Guayre (Villarreal),

Out: Carlos Vela (Arsenal), Toni Moral (Alavés), Sergio Fernández (Real Zaragoza), José Enrique (Villarreal), Iago Bouzón (Recreativo Huelva), Goran Maric (Las Palmas), David Silva (Valencia end of loan), Sebastian Méndez (San Lorenzo), Juan Sánchez (retired), Everton Giovanella (retired)

DEPORTIVO LA CORUÑA

In: Dudu Aouate (Racing Santander), Antonio Tomás (Racing Santander), Rodolfo Bodipo (Alavés), Albert Lopo (Espanyol), Juan Rodríguez (Málaga), Riki (Getafe), Pablo Álvarez (Sporting de Gijón), Cristian Hidalgo (FC Barcelona), Antonio Barragán (Liverpool), Rodri (FC Barcelona), Álvaro Arbeloa (Real Madrid), Joan Verdú (FC Barcelona), Fabián Estoyanoff (Valencia one-year loan)

Out: Pedro Munitis (Racing Santander), César Martín (Levante), Romero (Real Betis), Dani Mallo (Braga), Xisco (Vecindario one-year loan), Momo (Racing Santander one-year loan), Rubén (Racing Santander one-year loan), Iván Carril (Vecindario one-year loan), Gallardo (Sevilla end of loan), José Molina (retired)

ESPANYOL

In: Jonatas Domingo (Flamengo), Rufete (Valencia), Jesús María Lacruz (Athletic Bilbao), Moha (Osasuna)

Out: Lopo (Deportivo La Coruña), Jofre (Real Murcia), Miki Robusté (Poli Ejido one-year loan), Juanfran (Real Madrid end of loan), Domi, Posse (contracts ended), Pochettino (retired)

GETAFE

In: Roberto Abbondanzieri (Boca Juniors), Lucas Matías Licht (Gímnasia de la Plata), Juan Angel Albín (Nacional), David Cortés (Mallorca), Francisco Javier Casquero (Racing Santander), Cosmin Contra (Atlético de Madrid), Manu del Moral (Atlético de Madrid), David Sousa (Valladolid), Alexis Ruano (Málaga), Ignacio Pérez Santamaría 'Nacho' (Málaga)

Out: David García Cubillo (Rayo Vallecano), Nano (Cádiz), Diego Rivas (Real Sociedad), Riki (Deportivo La Coruña), Mariano Pernía (Atlético de Madrid), Aníbal Matellán (Gimnàstic de Tarragona), Jaime Gavilán (Valencia), Juan Calatayud (Málaga loan ended), Gica Craioveanu (retired)

GIMNÀSTIC

In: Javier Portillo (Real Madrid), Aníbal Matellán (Getafe), Alejandro Campano (Mallorca), Albano Bizarri (Valladolid), Juan (Sporting de Gijón), Mingo (Albacete), Manel Ruz (Valencia one-year loan), David Generelo (Real Zaraoza one-year loan)

Out: Diego Torres (Rayo Vallecano), Alex Pérez (Real Madrid end of loan), Iván Romero (Atlético de Madrid end of loan), Lupidio (Hércules end of loan), Alfonso (released), Bolo (released), Lluís Codina (released), Abdul Ekpoki (released), Miguel Pérez (released)

LEVANTE

In: Damiano Tommasi (AS Roma), Albert Meyong Ze (Belenenses), Álvaro Luiz Maior (Real Zaragoza), Roberto (Sporting de Gijón), César (Deportivo La Coruña), Laurent Robert (Benfica), Frédéric Déhu (Marseille), Manolo Gaspar (Almería), Nino (Elche)

Out: José Antonio Culebras (Tenerife), Juan Carlos Ceballos (Ciudad de Murcia one-year loan), Rodríguez (Lorca one-year loan), José Aizpurúa (Sporting de Gijón one-year loan) Jesule (Sporting de Gijón one-year loan), Edwin Congo (released), Fernando Lombardi (released)

MALLORCA

In: Fernando Varela (Real Betis), Jordi López (Sevilla), Javier Dorado (Sporting de Gijón), Fernando Navarro (FC Barcelona), Maxi López (FC Barcelona one-year loan)

Out: David Cortés (Getafe), Alejandro Campano (Gimnàstic de Tarragona), Yoshito Okubo (Cerezo Osaka loan ended), Borja Fernández (Real Madrid loan ended), Alessandro Potenza (Inter end of loan), Pancho Maciel (Real Murcia end of loan), Braulio Nóbrega (Atlético de Madrid end of loan), Javier Farinós (released), Yordi (relseased)

OSASUNA

In: Javad Nekounam (Al Sharjah FC), Héctor Font (Villarreal), Roberto Soldado (Real Madrid one-year loan), Juanlu (Real Betis one-year loan)

Out: Javi Martínez (Osasuna), Juan Manuel Ortiz (Atlético de Madrid), Moha (Espanyol), Fran Moreno (Numancia), Rafael Clavero (Tenerife)

RACING SANTANDER

In: Pedro Munitis (Deportivo La Coruña), Gonzalo Colsa (Atlético de Madrid), Luis Fernández (Real Betis), Momo (Deportivo La Coruña one-year loan), Rubén (Deportivo La Coruña one-year loan)

Out: Dudu Aouate (Deportivo La Coruña), Antonio Tomás (Deportivo La Coruña), Francisco Javier Casquero (Getafe), Pablo Casar (Alavés), Alex Garcia (Athletic Bilbao), Wilfried Dalmat (Mons), Jonathan Valle (Tenerife one-year loan), Trevi (Eibar one-year loan), Antoñito (Sevilla end of loan), Damià Abella (FC Barcelona end of loan), Mauricio Pinilla (Sporting Lisbon end of loan), Stephane Dalmat (released), Juan José Valencia (released)

REAL MADRID

In: Ruud Van Nistelrooy (Manchester United), Emerson (Juventus), Fabio Cannavaro (Juventus)

Out: Álvaro Arbeloa (Deportivo La Coruña), Javier Portillo (Ginmàstic de Tarragona), Roberto Soldado (Osasuna one-year loan), Zinedine Zidane (retired)

REAL SOCIEDAD

In: Diego Rivas (Getafe), Gerardo (Málaga), Fabio Felicio (Unión Leiria), Juanito (Alavés), Claudio Bravo (Colo Colo)

Out: Nihat Kahveci (Villarreal), Igor Gabilondo (Athletic Bilbao), Javier Barkero (Albacete), Óscar De Paula (Cádiz), Sergio Boris (Numancia), Gorka Larrea (Almería one-year loan), Néstor Susaeta (Salamanca one-year loan), Xabier Castillo (Las Palmas one-year loan), Sebastián Romero (Racing de Avellaneda one-year loan), Ximun Duhour (Eibar one-year loan), Markel Bergara (Vecindario one-year loan), Oskitz Estafanía (Eibar one-year loan), Mark González (Liverpool end of loan), Alberto López (released)

RECREATIVO DE HUELVA

In: Hipólito Fernández 'Poli' (Alavés), Mario (FC Barcelona), Dani Bautista (Sevilla), Iago Bouzón (Celta Vigo), Santi Cazorla (Villarreal), Edu Moya (Tenerife), Jesús Vázquez (Tenerife), César Arzo (Villarreal one-year loan), Javier López Vallejo (Villarreal one-year loan)

Out: Ignacio Benítez (Hércules), José Manuel Mateo (Alavés), Iker Begoña (Lorca), Gastón Casas (Elche), Pedro Baquero (Rayo Vallecano), Xavi Jiménez (Ciudad de Murcia one-year loan), Jesús Galván (released), Martínez Valero (released)

SEVILLA

In: Ernesto Chevantón (Sevilla), Christian Poulsen (Schalke 04), Duda (Sevilla), Andreas Hinkel (VfB Stuttgart), David Cobeño (Real Madrid), Ernesto Javier Chevantón (Monaco)

Out: Jordi López (Mallorca), Antonio Notario (Real Murcia), Francisco Gallardo (Real Murcia one-year loan), Antoñito (Real Murcia one-year loan), David Prieto (Xerez one-year loan), Javier Saviola (FC Barcelona end of loan)

VALENCIA

In: Asier Del Horno (Chelsea), Fernando Morientes (Liverpool), Hugo Viana (Newcastle United)

Out: Pablo Aimar (Real Zaragoza), Mista (Atlético de Madrid), Bernardo Corradi (Manchester City), Rufete (Espanyol), Fabio Aurelio (Liverpool), José Enrique (Villarreal), Javier Garrido (Lorca), Marco Caneira (Sporting Lisbon three-year loan), Sisinio González 'Sisi' (Valladolid one-year loan), Manel Ruz (Gimnàstic de Tarragona one-year loan), Juanlu (Hércules one-year loan), Amedeo Carboni (retired)

VILLARREAL

In: Robert Pires (Arsenal), Nihat Kahveci (Real Sociedad), Cani (Real Zaragoza), José Enrique (Valencia), Leandro Somoza (Vélez Sarsfield)

Out: Antonio Guayre (Celta Vigo), Héctor Font (Osasuna), Roger (Ajax), Santi Cazorla (Recreativo de Huelva), Antonio Valencia (Wigan Athletic), César Arzo (Recreativo de Huelva one-year loan), Javier López Vallejo (Recreativo de Huelva one-year loan), Xisco Nadal (Hércules one-year loan), Javier Calleja (released)

REAL ZARAGOZA

In: Pablo Aimar (Valencia), Juanfran (Besiktas), Sergio Fernández (Celta Vigo), Andrés D'Alessandro (VfL Wolfsburg one-year loan), Gerard Piqué (Manchester United one-year loan)

Out: Savio (Flamengo), Cani (Villarreal), Raúl Valbuena (Albacete), Álvaro Luiz Maior (Levante), Delio Toledo (Kayserispor), Capi (Real Murcia), Francisco Medina Luna 'Piti' (Hércules), David Generelo (Gimnàstic de Tarragona one-year loan)

LB

FA, will continue to pay Sven-Goran Eriksson in full until next year

2006-08-12T09:52:00.000-07:00

The Football Association will continue to pay Sven-Goran Eriksson in full until next year and the Swede may end up costing another £3.4million.

While his successor Steve McClaren is being paid a reported £3million a year, the FA are also still having to fork out for Eriksson.

Under the details of the agreement, which have been confirmed by the FA, Eriksson will get his full salary paid until January 31 2007, and then half his salary for the five months until June 30 2007.

Eriksson had been under contract until 2008, so the FA will not have to pay anything for the final year of that deal but effectively agreed a nine-month pay-off of his £4.5million salary, a potential cost of £3.4million.

The settlement also makes clear that if Eriksson gets another job between now and next June, the FA are liable to cover any difference in salary between his England post and his new position.

The FA council met on Friday with some members unhappy that Eriksson has not provided any sort of debriefing on the failure of the World Cup campaign or his five years in charge of England.

The severance deal was agreed between Eriksson and FA chief executive Brian Barwick back in January when it was announced that the Swede was to step down following the World Cup.

At the time, Eriksson said: "Hopefully it will not cost the FA one penny. You can't be sure of absolutely everything in life but I am quite confident it will not cost the FA.''

At the moment, it is costing them £85,000 a week - and counting.

Fergie "SEEMS TO"loses astute touch in market as "ECONOMISTY"

2006-08-06T05:31:00.000-07:00

Manchester United's signing of Michael Carrick shows the days of Sir Alex Ferguson snapping up bargain buys are long gone.

There is not a match goes by at Old Trafford without the fans paying tribute to Sir Alex Ferguson's most astute piece of transfer business.

'Ooh aah Cantona,' goes the chant and has done since Ferguson wrenched the Frenchman from Leeds on November 27, 1992, for £1.2million.

No matter that Cantona has been retired almost nine years now.

The supporters recognise the value of the man whose talent delivered United's first Premiership title in 1993 and was instrumental in supplying the creativity on which a dynasty was built.

I know you don't get much for your money these days, not in a week Rolling Stone Keith Richards paid £60,000 for a Sussex beach hut in which he could barely store, let alone swing, a guitar.

I know football inflation makes even less sense.

And I know Ferguson has bought some turkeys in his time, not least Eric Djemba-Djemba, Kleberson and most expensively Juan Sebastian Veron.

But even so, as Michael Carrick was paraded before the press and the United faithful got used to the idea that a player who joined Tottenham for £2.75m two years ago was suddenly costing them £18.6m, it did make you wonder whether Ferguson's eye for a bargain is quite what it was.

It is not to say that Carrick is not a fine footballer. He is. He played a useful part in restoring the fortunes of Spurs. He exercised the mind of Sven-Goran Eriksson as a holding midfielder for England even if the Swede could not quite make up his mind between him and Jamie Carragher and Owen Hargreaves.

Indeed, if you listen to one man who knows Carrick well, former England captain and ex-under-21 manager David Platt, you might be convinced Ferguson has done good business.

David Platt says: "I have never seen him struggle in a game of football.

"Carrick never has a bad game. He has everything. He can be a world-class player. He can be a stopper but in possession he has the passing ability of David Beckham.

"My criticism is that he has not stood up to the plate and shown people what an exceptional player he is."

And there is the rub. Carrick is no Cantona. He is no Roy Keane.

He will bring a certain stability but he is not the type of player around whom you can mould a team. He does not possess the personality to inspire others. Too often he appears afraid to demonstrate the full range of his talent.

That is not what United need. Not when Chelsea have landed an ego the size of the Dome in Michael Ballack and a goalscorer of world renown in Andriy Shevchenko.

Somehow I don't think Carrick is going to send a shiver of anxiety through Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho as he ponders his route to what looks likely to be a third successive Premiership title.

The £18.6m, however, is cause for alarm for English football.

The inflated fee simply confirms Roman Abramovich's strangling effect on a league in which Mourinho gets first choice of the cream, pays wages others cannot countenance, while the rest are forced to fork out daft prices for the scraps left over.

It conforms to the aggressive disciplines of supply and demand in the capitalist market place.

It just does not take into account the fact that sport is about hopes and dreams as much as money.

Unpredictability is the lifeblood of sport and while there has been a certain intrigue about Mourinho's work so far, another season of relentless triumph could be a Stamford Bridge too far for the Premiership.

Yes, I know that man Cantona set United off on a run in which they won eight Premiership titles in a decade of domination.

The difference is that these days Ferguson has to fork out 18 times what the Frenchman cost on a player in Carrick most people would not wager a pound on influencing the title race.

William Gallas hopes to hold talks with Chelsea next week

2006-08-03T05:14:00.000-07:00

The agent of William Gallas hopes to hold talks with Chelsea next week over the French defender's future.

The 28-year-old, who told the Blues he wanted to leave in May, failed to turn up for a pre-season American tour and was criticised by boss Jose Mourinho.

"I think we will meet the directors of Chelsea next week," Pierre Frelot told BBC Sport.

"I think but don't know."

Asked about whether Gallas wanted to stay at Chelsea, he answered:

"I don't want to comment on this question."

World Cup review....

2006-07-06T04:11:00.000-07:00

GOAL OF THE ROUND

Not a great deal of applicants for this award - perhaps we should let them put forward their own arguments (in a strange hybrid of languages).

ZIDANE: "Behold my penalty! A two-step run-up and a firm strike to Ricardo's right. Take note Angleterre, c'est facile! And Thierry tricked that nasty Ricardo Carvalho into the foul - for that alone, I am surely the winner!"

DEL PIERO: "Preposterous signor! My delicate chip across Jens Lehmann in the last minute of extra time was calcio bellissimo. Cannavaro released Gilardino, who ran towards what was left of a once-organised German defence. A quick sleight of foot and I am left with a tough one-on-one - which I make look easy! Give me the award!"

GROSSO: "I am but a humble full-back who came through several years of amateur football before earning a chance with unfashionable Palermo. What chance do I have?"

BUT FOR EVEN ME on talk: "When you collect a sublime through-ball from Andrea Pirlo and curl a tremendous shot around a top goalkeeper to save your side from a likely penalty shoot-out defeat, and then celebrate with a modern-day version of the Tardelli Scream, you stand a very good chance Fabio! Forza Azzurri!"

MAGIC MOMENT OF THE ROUND

The aforementioned Grosso Headshake of Joy was a memorable image but there was much to enjoy in the demise of the Portuguese in Munich.

Fernando Meira's woe at blasting high and wide;

Cristiano Ronaldo's tears and sulking face;

Big Phil Scolari's finger-jabbing ref rage as Senor Larrionda left the field.

In a tournament billed as 'A Time To Make Friends' by the hosts,

Portugal spent theirs making enemies - even the German fans in the stadium interrupted their cries of 'Deutschland,

Deutschland' to boo the World Cup's biggest winker every time he touched the ball.

But it would be wrong to deem any of these incidents as 'magic moments' so

I have instead chosen the mutual respect shown by Zinedine Zidane and Luis Figo after the final whistle.

It was the latest in a long line of symbolic Corinthian clinches,

following on from Moore and Pele,

Flintoff and Lee, and Bowyer and Dyer (well, the post-fight press conference anyway).

Two giants of the world stage saying farewell on the pitch - and credit to Figo for staying on his feet throughout their embrace.

PLAYER OF THE ROUND

Despite fine displays from Lehmann, Zidane, Lilian Thuram and even Ronaldo (as much as it pains to me say it), Italy were the ones to admire in the semi-finals. Andrea Pirlo won the official Budweiser Man of the Match award but as I have been suspicious of these trumped-up beer tokens throughout the tournament, I will shy away from the Milan man. We'll do the football lads!

And in truth, Fabio Cannavaro was the best player on the pitch.

Germany had 13 shots on goal to Italy's 15 during the 120 minutes in Dortmund which suggests how even the match was as a whole. But when you consider the hosts only had two on target to the Azzurri's 10, someone must take the credit for putting them off.

Cannavaro twice denied Lukas Podolski with fine blocks, stripped Miroslav Klose of the ball with consummate skill and generally tidied up in the rearguard whenever a white shirt ventured forward.

He even started the move which led to Italy's first goal on 119 minutes, winning a header in his own area and then chasing the ball out to midfield to nudge it to Gilardino.

His focus during the match is all the more remarkable considering he had to shut out off-field distractions as well as Germany's attacks. How apt he should now celebrate a century of caps in the biggest game of his career; truly Cannavaro is a man for the big occasion.

QUOTE OF THE ROUND

Some words of wisdom and some mad mumblings relating to the tournament this week.

On the night England bowed out, Sir Elton John vented his frustration to concert-goers in Bournemouth by slaughtering the players and then proclaiming: "I do not even want to talk about that f***ing Sven Goran Abba-dabba." Histrionics and a musical reference, a fitting tribute!

German newspaper Der Spiegel must be regretting their pre-match jibes at the Italians who they referred to as "lazy, greasy parasites". Bet Lippi had that one up on the dressing-room wall.

David Beckham's decision to hand back the captain's armband drew a scathing response from USA goalkeeper Kasey Keller, who labelled him "a total poseur".

And ITV
pundit David Pleat revelled in the link-up play of Klose and Podolski by stating "it's wonderful to see two strikers playing with each other". Guffaw.

But the last word - as usual - must go to Portugal chief Big Phil Scolari.

Perhaps his admirers at the English FA are better off without his rabble rousing and warrior spirit after all.

Particularly as his man-management ethos appears to have been borrowed off headache-inducing 90s Dutch techno outfit 2 Unlimited.

"My first job has been to try and help the players to see where the limits are," said Scolari before the France game.

"Then I must help them to get near the limits and then to reach the limits. Once they manage to surpass the limits then they will realise there are no limits to what they can achieve."

DO YOU KNOW THIS..???..who would be the winner of the 2006 world cup?

2006-06-30T08:38:00.000-07:00

Brazil won the world cup in 1994. Before that, they had won this title for the last time in 1970.

If you add up: 1970 + 1994 = 3964.

Argentina won the world cup for the last time in 1986. Before that only in 1978.

And 1978 + 1986 = 3964

Germany , though, won the world cup in 1990. Before that, Germany won in 1974.

Look: 1990 + 1974 = 3964

This could lead us to guess the winner of the World Cup in 2002,

since it should be the winner of the 1962 World Cup

(In fact 3964 - 2002 = 1962).

And Brazil won the world cup in 1962!
(And, in fact, Brazil won the 2002 WC)

YES..

This numerology seems to work...

And now,

who would be the winner of the 2006 world cup?

Let's see, 3964 - 2006 = 1958

And who will now go away with this CUP..???

What /WHO do you think now......

do you know who will win the world cup now ...???

let me hear your say....

TEAMtalk Soccers -second round World Cup review

2006-06-29T07:06:00.000-07:00

The World Cup second round is now complete - and Rob McCarthy hands out TEAMtalk Soccer awards to Maxi Rodriguez and Ronaldo among others.

GOAL OF THE ROUND

There's no point even debating what the strike of the second round was - step forward Maxi Rodriguez and collect your gong.

An exciting clash between Mexico and Argentina looked as if it could have been heading for penalties - but thankfully the game was ended in a more dignified way when the winger trapped the ball on his chest on the right edge of the area and unleashed a spectacular left-footed volley that flew into the far corner and sparked wild celebrations in Leipzig and Buenos Aires.

Of course there were other contenders - David Beckham finally coming to the World Cup party with his splendid free-kick against Ecuador,

Maniche's goal helping Portugal win their battle, literally, with Holland and Zinedine Zidane's classy third for France against Spain - but there's no taxi for Maxi at this awards ceremony.

MAGIC MOMENT OF THE ROUND

No it's not Becks chucking up - more of a tragic moment that.

Although there could be some advertising potential there!

Now for the winner.

He may be a stone, or two, overweight and not quite the player he once was but for becoming the record goalscorer in World Cup finals history, the award has to go to Brazil striker Ronaldo.

Once again the other 'Big Ron' failed to sparkle as Carlos Alberto Pareira's men saw off Ghana in Tuesday's last-16 clash, although a lot of that was down to the performance, spirit and endeavor shown by the 'African Brazil' - if only they could finish.

The Real Madrid marksman took his goal superbly to notch up his 15th in finals and go ahead of legendary German Gerd Muller - and in Das Bomber's own backyard.

Now for the big question - did Big Ron celebrate with a Big Mac!

PLAYER OF THE ROUND

England weren't at their best again in beating Ecuador on Sunday but for me it was the return to form of Ashley Cole that stood out - particularly the moment he could well have kept us in the competition.

The Arsenal full-back was outstanding in Japan and Korea four years ago and performed admirably at Euro 2004, but so far in Germany he has lacked those lung-busting displays up and down the left flank that we all know him for as he fights his way back to full fitness - that was until Sunday's game.

Cole showed unbelievable pace to make up fully 30 yards and perfectly time a tackle to prevent Carlos Tenorio giving the South Americans an early lead - if there was an award for 'tackle of the tournament' it's surely up there. Cheryl would have been proud!

Mr Tweedy also got forward at every available opportunity to give England valuable width in what was a narrow new 4-5-1 formation against Ecuador.

King Cole is back - long live the King!

QUOTE OF THE ROUND

There were some absolute belters again in this category.

David Beckham blatantly name-dropping after grabbing England's winner against Ecuador: "Roberto Carlos texted me to score a goal for him so I am more than happy." Aaah!

Big Phil Scolari even got in on the act when talking about Luis Figo's headbutt on Mark van Bommel in the 'battle of Leipzig': "Jesus Christ said we should turn the other cheek. Unfortunately, Luis Figo is not Jesus Christ." Really!

But the award goes to Frenchman Eric Abidal ahead of the Spain game.

The defender was clearly up for the contest, but footballs that kill might be taking it too far!: "It's warfare and it's kill or be killed. Not literally of course as you can't kill with a football." Thank goodness!

THIS IS FROM TEAMTALK

Reds "Astonished" By comments from Juan Miguel Villar Villar Mir's Ronaldo Claim

2006-06-28T06:17:00.000-07:00

United are “astonished” at comments from Juan Miguel Villar Mir, a Real Madrid presidential candidate, claiming he is in talks with the club over a deal to take Cristiano Ronaldo to the Bernabeu.

Spanish newspaper Marca carried quotes from the United winger claiming a deal would be done to take the 21-year-old to the Santiago Bernabeu if Juan Miguel Villar Mir is voted in.

However, a known political tactic in the past has been for presidential candidates to promise big-name signings.

On Tuesday Villar Mir claimed the reports were true, saying: "With Cristiano Ronaldo it's all correct, as he himself has recognised. We are acting by respecting the norms of FIFA. Manchester know that we are talking to him."

United immediately countered Villar Mir’s remarks, unequivocally denying being in talks over a deal for the 21-year-old.

"Manchester United is astonished with Villar Mir comments," the club said in a statement.

"There has been no contact between Manchester United, his election team and or Real Madrid and any suggestion there has is incorrect.

"Unfortunately these tactics seem to be a common occurrence in elections of this nature.

BUT..Ronaldo extends Man Utd contract

"Ronaldo has signed a long term contract until June 2010 and will be a player with Manchester United next season."

the scandal of "RONALDO" was ALSO announced here..OPEN

Ruud plays down Ronaldo 'dispute'

United and Chelsea battle for to sign Spanish World Cup sensation Torres

2006-06-27T03:16:00.000-07:00

Manchester United and Chelsea are locked in a battle to sign Spanish World Cup sensation Fernando Torres.

The bitter Premiership rivals both want to sign 'El Nino' from La Liga club Atletico Madrid.
And Atletico have reportedly received a bid that matches their reported £25million valuation of the player.

Now Torres must decide whether he wants to move to Old Trafford or Stamford Bridge once the finals in Germany are over.

He has been hugely impressive so far as Spain have reached the knockout stages - scoring three goals in the process.

Torres has been repeatedly linked with a move to England for the last three years - Chelsea are reported to have made a £28million bid for him shortly after Roman Abramovich bought the club in the summer of 2003.

And now, with Jose Mourinho impressed by his international displays, they are set to try again to lure Torres away from the Spanish capital.

United meanwhile are desperate to find a replacement for Ruud van Nistelrooy - who seems set to leave once the World Cup is over.

The Reds want around £15million for the out-of-favour Dutchman, and German giants Bayern Munich have already confirmed their interest.

They would love to pair him with Roy Makaay in a dream Dutch strike partnership.

Ruud wants urgent future talks with United,just to sort out his future ....

2006-06-26T02:28:00.000-07:00

Out-of-favour striker Ruud van Nistelrooy wants urgent talks to sort out his future with Manchester United "sooner rather than later".

After being dumped to the United bench and eventually exiled altogether by Sir Alex Ferguson, van Nistelrooy found himself axed by Holland coach Marco van Basten on Monday night.

Van Nistelrooy's services were not called upon even though Holland were eventually beaten 1-0 by Portugal in an incredible World Cup knockout clash which saw both sides reduced to nine men.

But, if there is one consolation from a defeat which cost the Dutch a quarter-final meeting with England, it is that van Nistelrooy can now focus on establishing whether he still has a future at Old Trafford.

"I would like the situation to be sorted out sooner rather than later," said the 29-year-old.

"There must be some sort of contact between the club and myself over the next few days.

"As I have said a number of times before, if nothing happens I will be at Manchester United next season.

"Maybe in the coming weeks, we have to see what United do and whether other clubs get involved.

"Whatever will happen will happen. I have to assess the situation and see what is the best for me."

Bayern Munich have already expressed a firm interest in van Nistelrooy, insisting the likely transfer fee and high wages would not be a problem.

Armed with the near £30million fee they received from Chelsea for Andriy Shevchenko, AC Milan are also set to be serious players in the hunt to sign one of the most prolific strikers in Europe.

Tottenham boss Martin Jol is also sure to make a speculative enquiry should United attempt to push through the transfer of Michael Carrick.

Ferguson has yet to offer a public opinion on van Nistelrooy since complaining about the negative influence the striker was having on United's training ground.

That verdict which came just hours after the former PSV Eindhoven forward - one of only eight men to score 150 times for the Red Devils - was booted out of the United team hotel prior to the final game of the season against Charlton.

At the time, van Nistelrooy sought immediate sanctuary with the Dutch squad, although he has now found van Basten is not quite as big a fan as he previously thought.

"I had a good discussion with the coach," said van Nistelrooy of a Thursday summit meeting at which van Basten informed him he was not contributing enough to the overall team effort.

"It was a hard discussion between us and I said what I wanted.

"I didn't totally agree with him but I accepted and respected his decision.

"I was happy he at least came to me and told me. Whether I agreed with the decision or not, I had to take it and move on.

"Now, I have to put the emotion of the World Cup behind me and think about my future."

Blatter also wants goal-line technology now.....

2006-06-25T10:03:00.000-07:00

Sepp Blatter will push ahead with the introduction of goal-line technology after admitting that France had a legitimate goal denied to them.

Former Arsenal midfielder Patrick Vieira had a header against South Korea not credited even though the ball crossed the line and the decision led to his side only drawing the game 1-1.

There was also a similar incident in an earlier game with Argentina defender Roberto Ayala denied against Ivory Coast but on this occasion the incident did not have a bearing on the result as the South Americans won 2-1.

FIFA president Blatter told a news conference in Berlin: "What we will work on, and I had discussions about this yesterday, is the system of goal-line technology using a microchip in the ball.

"There have been two instances where the ball has definitely crossed the line but were not given as a goal by the referees and this is something we really need to work on.

"One of the teams was not affected

Kaka' accept new AC deal and ends Real hopes....

2006-06-24T09:31:00.000-07:00

Brazil playmaker Kaka has ended Real Madrid's interest in him by agreeing a contract extension with Italian giants AC Milan.

Kaka, whose previous deal ran until 2009, has penned a new contract that is set to keep him at the San Siro until 2011.

Milan announced the news on their official website, saying: "After the Brazil-Australia (World Cup match) Kaka, our biggest star, the light

that shines in all Rossoneri eyes, has extended his contract until 2011.

"Ricky (Kaka) has pledged eternal love for Milan and will remain for another five years.''

The news will come as a major boost to Milan, who recently lost star striker Andriy Shevchenko to Chelsea, and should also end reported interest from Real in the 24-year-old.

Real presidential candidate Ramon Calderon had revealed he intended to take Kaka to Spain if he was elected.

at the same time today it was announced that AC MILLAN was one of the suspected in the "SCANDAL"...and may face huge point deduction...

but besides ,KAKA decide to stay with the team then...

Juve, Milan, Lazio And Fiorentina are "were charged " for the scandal...

2006-06-23T09:04:00.000-07:00

As expected the four clubs, along with other officials, were charged with sporting fraud in the Italian scandal.

Fans of the four big Italian clubs can now start to worry as yesterday they were indicted to the Disciplinary Commission for violation of Article 1 (general duties and obligations)

and/or Article 6 (altering the result of a match or securing an advantage in the table with any means is considered sporting fraud.

The clubs, its Directors and players have the duty to inform the authorities if they believe this is in progress) of the sporting justice code.

Juventus is the club that is risking most as they have violated both articles directly and Serie B or even Serie C is a big probability.

Lazio and Fiorentina risk demotion to Serie B for their non-direct involvement,

whereas Milan risk a heavy point deduction.

The persons, including 8 referees, who have been charged as well are:

Luciano Moggi,
Antonio Giraudo,
Adriano Galliani,
Leonardo Meani,
Andrea Della Valle,
Diego Della Valle, Sandro Mencucci,
Claudio Lotito, Cosimo Maria Ferri,
Franco Carraro,
Innocenzo Mazzini, Tullio Lanese,
Paolo Bergamo,
Pierluigi Pairetto,
Gennaro Mazzei,
Pietro Ingargiola,
Paolo Bertini,
Massimo De Santis,
Paolo Dondarini,
Fabrizio Babini,
Domenico Messina,
Gianluca Paparesta,
Gianluca Rocchi,
Pasquale Rodomonti,
Paolo Tagliavento,
Claudio Puglisi.

The trial will start next week and by the 20th of July a verdict will be made.

after the "SCANDAL" Milan vice-President Adriano Galliani resign

2006-06-23T08:48:00.000-07:00

The AC Milan vice-President has stepped down from his post as Lega President

Following the news that he was indicted in the Italian scandal, Adriano Galliani announced his resignation from the Presidency of the Lega Calcio.

Galliani announced the news through a letter in which he stated his "total estrangement from any accusation."

The accusation refers to the Article 1 of the sporting justice code, which means he violated the sports duties of loyalty and probity and rectitude.

Premiership champions fixture is online now

2006-06-22T08:20:00.000-07:00

Premiership champions Chelsea will kick off their title defence with the visit of Manchester City on 19 August.

Last season's runners-up Manchester United will host Fulham, while FA Cup winners Liverpool travel to newly-promoted Sheffield United.

Arsenal will open proceedings at the Emirates Stadium by taking on Aston Villa, while rivals Tottenham face a trip to Bolton.

for the premiership fixtures open here...

Barca "NOW"set to enter "chelsea" Lahm race

2006-06-21T05:13:00.000-07:00

Barcelona look set to enter the race for Chelsea target Phillip Lahm, according to reports in Spain

The Germany and Bayern Munich full-back has impressed during the World Cup and has been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge, but the Premiership champions will face competition from the European Champions according to Spanish daily Marca.

Frank Rijkaard sees Lahm as a long-term successor to current left-back Gio van Bronckhorst who will be 32 when his contract expires at the end of next season.

Bayern Munich have already said Lahm is not for sale and will resist any approaches for the 23-year-old.

Lahm spent two years on loan at Stuttgart after suffering a serious knee ligament injury before being called back to the Bundesliga champions.

The paper also credits Barcelona with an interest in Gianluca Zambrotta.

Injured Owen returning to England...FA confirm his World Cup KO

2006-06-21T04:54:00.000-07:00

Michael Owen's World Cup is over after he was ruled out for the remainder of the tournament in Germany

Michael Owen is out of the World Cup and flying back to England after a scan revealed the extent of his knee injury

Owen could be out of action for up to five months after the England striker reportedly suffered cruciate ligament damage against Sweden.

The Football Association have confirmed the Newcastle player is on his way home from the England team's base in Germany.

Owen injured his right knee during the first minute of England's 2-2 draw against Sweden in Cologne and flew back to the team hotel in Baden-Baden ahead of an MRI scan this morning at the Max Grundig hospital at Buhlertal.

The 26-year-old missed the second half of last season with a metatarsal injury and Sky Sports reported this morning that he will now be out of action for a further five months.

Owen's England team-mates Rio Ferdinand and Gary Neville were also at the clinic for scans, Ferdinand on a groin injury he picked up in the Sweden game an Neville on the calf problem which has kept him out of the last two matches against Trinidad and Tobago and Sweden.

Michael Owen said: "Obviously it's a massive blow to suffer the injury - and be out of the World Cup.

"As soon as it happened I knew I was in trouble. It was a major disappointment to pick up the injury so early in the game.

"I'll go back home now and work with the Newcastle medical staff to put a recovery programme in place.

"I'm clearly sorry to be leaving the lads in Germany, but I'm convinced they can go on and achieve success.

"I'll be following all the matches very closely and giving them my full support, hopefully all the way to Berlin.

"My main objective is now to get fit as quickly as possible for Newcastle United."

Sven-Goran Eriksson said: "Michael has had terrible luck with injuries since Christmas.

"I feel very sorry for him to miss out on the rest of the World Cup - it's a blow to him and a big loss for the team.

"However I am sure Michael will work very hard to get back as quickly as possible for Newcastle and England. He is a true professional and a very mentally strong person.

"I hope the team can now go on and achieve success in Germany for Michael."

Bayern hoping to book Manchester United misfit Ruud van Nistelrooy removal

2006-06-14T03:54:00.000-07:00

Bayern Munich president Karl-Heinz Rumenigge admits the club is considering a swoop for Manchester United misfit Ruud van Nistelrooy

The 29-year-old Holland World Cup star's days at Old Trafford appear to be numbered after a falling out with boss Sir Alex Ferguson.

Rumenigge said: "He (van Nistelrooy) wanted to come to us in 2001 when his move to Manchester United had not been sealed.

"We will do nothing behind the backs of Manchester United - first we must find out if he really is on the market."

However, van Nistelrooy could be ready to stay at Old Trafford next season after all amidst reports the Dutch striker has buried the hatchet with Ferguson.

According to reports, Ferguson had a long phone conversation with the striker on Monday from his villa in the south of France to settle their differences.

besides,Van Nistelrooy has never once said he wanted to leave Old Trafford, despite his fall from grace at the back end of last season.

The club have yet to confirm or deny that van Nistelrooy is now set to stay, though chief executive David Gill said back in April: "Van Nistelrooy is not for sale. Why sell a player who scores us 30 goals a season?"

signing of Roy Keane was a waste of money -McNeill

2006-06-13T03:14:00.000-07:00

Former Celtic manager Billy McNeill claims the signing of Roy Keane was a waste of money for the Parkhead club.

The 34-year-old Irishman, who was plagued by a hip injury last season, announced his retirement after just 13 appearances and one goal for the Hoops since being unveiled last December.

And McNeill, who skippered Celtic when they won the European Cup in 1967, insists the former Manchester United midfielder was well past his best when he arrived in Glasgow.

He told the Scottish Sun: "I hate to say it but I warned Gordon Strachan against signing Roy Keane in the first place and yesterday my fears were realised.

"Celtic were never going to get sort of return from the veteran midfielder that they were looking for.

"Just 13 games and one goal in six months in Scotland.

"If I'd still been in charge then I would have been bitterly disappointed with that.

"But then if I had still been in charge at Parkhead I wouldn't have signed him.

"Yes, he was once arguably the best midfielder in the world but Celtic were always getting a player who was trudging towards the end of his career.

"Because of the punishment his body had taken in over 10 years at the top in England he was never going to set the heather on fire in Scotland.

"The glory days were firmly behind him. I knew it, he knew it and more worryingly for me, Celtic knew it.

"For me the whole exercise has been a gamble that hasn't paid off."

However, Celtic midfielder Stilian Petrov insists it was an honour to play alongside Keane.

The Bulgarian international told the Scottish Sun: "I feel that it is really disappointing for football, not just Celtic.

"It was a great honour for me to play with Roy.

"Every game with him was special and I feel very lucky because not too many players have had the chance.

"I am really pleased that I had the opportunity and I am sure every other Celtic player feels the same.

"Roy achieved so much as a footballer and a person - and I am very sad he has played his last game."

MAN UTD Fans Want Riquelme And Torres

2006-06-12T05:39:00.000-07:00

ManUtd.com readers would like to see Juan Roman Riquelme and Fernando Torres arrive at United this summer, the results of our transfer polls have shown.

As usual, there has been a plethora of names – and transfer fees – bandied around in the tabloid press.

So, asked United fans on the official website which of the players linked with a move to Manchester would be the most popular purchases.

they ran two polls, one for strikers and another for midfielders. Villarreal playmaker Riquelme beat Lyon’s defensive enforcer Mahamadou Diarra by 1% in a split midfielder poll.

Over 35,000 people voted, with 26% saying Riquelme would be the ideal summer purchase for the Reds.

A deal for Diarra was backed by 25% of the electorate, while 20% of the voters felt AC Milan’s Gennaro Gattuso is the player United should be targeting.

The striker poll was more clear-cut. Atletico Madrid’s Fernando Torres was the unequivocal favourite, polling 70% of the votes .

Chelsea striker Eidur Gudjohnsen has slipped down the pecking order with the signing of Andrei Shevchenko.

Gudjohnsen was our readers’ second choice, with 9% of the votes, with Internazionale’s Obafemi Martins reaching the 8% mark, while Tottenham forward Jermain Defoe earning 7% of the voting.

FERNANDO TORRES - MANCHESTER UTD, LIVERPOOL, AC MILAN, BARCELONA FC & " half " OF EUROPE

2006-06-12T03:20:00.000-07:00

FERNANDO TORRES is the hottest property on the market.

The young Spanish striker, currently concentrated with the
Spanish World Cup Squad, his hearing the "sirens" of Europe´s
top teams for next season.

MANCHESTER UTD.
The British press are calling it a done deal. Voted as the "most
wanted player" on the Man Utd site, the rumour is that the offer
is 21,000,000€ plus player VAN NISTELROOY.

LIVERPOOL
With the injury of CISSE & the transfer of MORIENTES to
Valencia FC,

Liverpool needs a star striker to fill the gap.

Coach Rafa Benitez, likes the "THE KID" & the fact that there
is a "Spanish element" already at the club, may help sway
the balance in favour of Liverpool, if Torres decides to leave
Atletico de Madrid.

AC MILAN
With Schevchenko at Chelsea, the Italian club needs to find a
striker & they have their eyes fixed on Torres.

Although this interest is less spoken off in the media, it exists & may have enough
strenght to convience the Spanish player.

BARCELONA FC
Fernando Torres has always said that he prefers to stay in
Spain to play his football.

Bracelona FC has never hidden its desire to have him over at the Nou Camp.

The fact that with all the current forwards at Barça & the talks at this moment with
Chelsea´s Gudjohnsen, could take some shine off the idea.

But there exists more possiblities

1. Stay at ATLETICO DE MADRID. This is a firm possiblity

2. Go to REAL MADRID. This is a strong option. Torres wishes
to stay in Spain & Real has all the characteristic that he needs to
become a World class player.

3. go to enjoy freshh air with new club..whether ENGALND or ITALY

BUT....

The final decision will be his & after Spain´s participation in the
World Cup.

If "The Kid" makes an impact at Germany, the value
could soar to new record heights.

as per striker!!!

Blatter wants leagues to be cut down Premiership to 18 teams

2006-06-09T03:38:00.000-07:00

FIFA president Sepp Blatter wants Europe's elite leagues to be cut down to 18 teams, meaning two sides would be thrown out of the

Blatter wants to put in place an independent ethics committee to help weed out scandals such as bribery and match-fixing.

No fewer than 13 motions were on the agenda on the second day of the FIFA Congress in Munich, with a new ethics panel top of the list and described by Blatter as "an important step forward".

Blatter believes a truly independent ethics committee would work far more effectively than the existing one run in house by FIFA itself.

Exactly who will be on the committee and what powers it will be given are yet to be decided but Blatter clearly thinks it is time for action following a recent spate of scandals, most seriously the crisis in Italy where Juventus are at the heart of a match-fixing furore.

As a result, Italian referee Massimo De Santis was recently withdrawn from the World Cup after being implicated in the scandal that also involves illegal betting.

The question of World Cup tickets ending up in the wrong hands may or may not come up for discussion today but the need for professional referees - one of Blatter's most keenly pursued campaigns -almost certainly will.

So, controversially, will his suggestion that European leagues should comprise no more than 18 clubs per elite division.

Although the Football Association and Premier League have made little public comment on the issue so far, they are understood to be vehemently opposed to any suggestion of throwing two clubs out of the country's top division.

Blatter believes an 18-club limit would reduce thorny club-versus-country conflicts but the proposal seems certain to be rejected by the FA if it comes to the vote later on Thursday.

Fergie's Rib Hope,any chance of landing France star Franck Ribery????

2006-06-08T04:05:00.000-07:00

Sir Alex Ferguson will discover today whether he has any chance of landing France World Cup star Franck Ribery.

The Manchester United manager failed in a £9million bid for the Marseilles winger last week and was poised to return with an improved offer.

The Frenchman has not ruled out the possibility of remaining with Marseilles for another season.

But his agent Bruno Heiderscheid admitted: “We need to have talks with Marseilles.

And if we cannot reopen negotiations, it is possible Franck will make a decision to leave.”

Rooney cleared for knockout stages

2006-06-08T03:04:00.000-07:00

Wayne Rooney and Steven Gerrard trained with their England team-mates on Thursday ahead of their World Cup opener against Paraguay.

Rooney returned to Germany on Wednesday night after undergoing a scan in Manchester on his metatarsal injury.

Manchester United confirmed on Thursday that Rooney will not be fit for the group stage of the competition but could play in the knock-out rounds.

United issued a statement in the early hours of Thursday morning and, although Rooney's return is good news for England, the noises from Old Trafford contained a coded warning.

Sven-Goran Eriksson and England's medical team are now responsible for the well-being of United's prized asset and they have been told to be "very careful".

Wayne Rooney has definitely been ruled out of the first three games of England's World Cup challenge but should be fit for the knockout stages

The Manchester United striker returned to England's training base in Baden-Baden having apparently been given the green light to step up his training in a bid to take some part in the tournament over the next month.

However, he has done so on the express advice that he plays no part in England's Group B campaign and is then monitored 'very carefully' before he is allowed to take the field during the knockout rounds

Reaction from the England camp to Rooney's return to Baden Baden was expected to come from England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson after Thursday's training session.

United would have misgivings if Rooney was rushed back for the final group game against Sweden on June 20. This temptation may occur if England do not start their campaign with wins against Paraguay on Saturday and Trinidad and Tobago on June 15.

The second round game, if England qualify, will be on June 24 or 25, depending on whether they win Group B or come second.

Gerrard missed Wednesday's session at England's Buhlertal training ground with a stiff back but was able to resume training on Thursday.

Mourinho hit back at the critics and said: "Money isn't everything"

2006-06-08T02:33:00.000-07:00

Jose Mourinho has hit back at the critics who accuse Chelsea of using Roman Abramovich's billions to buy back-to-back Premiership titles

Chelsea have already splashed out £38million since the end of the season to bring AC Milan striker Andriy Shevchenko and Lyn Oslo teenager Jon Obi Mikel to Stamford Bridge.

Mourinho also strengthened his squad with the additions of Germany captain Michael Ballack on a free transfer from Bayern Munich and Salomon Kalou from Feyenoord for an undisclosed fee.

But despite the massive outlay since he took charge of the club two seasons ago, Mourinho is adamant it is not possible to buy success.

In an interview with daily Portuguese sports paper O Jogo, Mourinho said: "It is I who makes decisions in terms of the quality and profile of a player, but I don't get involved in the business side at all - it is he (Abramovich) who makes the decisions to pay X or Y.

"But the best players in the world don't make the best teams, you have to work hard to be successful.

"There are clubs whose futures are affected by the investments they make, but it is different at Chelsea.

"It is a club that relies on just one person. It is the money of Abramovich that funds it."

The Blues managed to persuade Mikel to join the club ahead of Manchester United, although the Londoners will eventually pay their Premiership rivals £12million in compensation.

But Mourinho insists he is not interested in buying a player just to stop him from going to a rival club.

Mourinho added: "I am a believer in having a squad of 24 players - two for each position, not of buying for the sake of buying or buying to prevent a player going to a rival club.

"I always try to ensure that I keep a balance with the things I do.

"The only balance I have lost at Chelsea is the amount of money we spent on some transfers, but it is Abramovich's money."

Kaka going nowhere OR legal action will follow: Milan told Real Madrid

2006-06-07T03:51:00.000-07:00

AC Milan have told Real Madrid they have no chance of signing Kaka and have threatened legal action if Real make an illegal approach

Kaka, who will star at the World Cup for Brazil, has been linked with a move to Madrid as a replacement for Zinedine Zidane but Milan have said the player is going nowhere.

Milan official Leonardo, himself a Brazilian World Cup star in 1994 and 1998, said:"Kaka is solely thinking about the World Cup right now, where he wants to be at his best."

"The rumours regarding his future are not troubling him because his bond with Milan is very strong and there are no problems."

Kaka knows that he can write some important chapters in the history of Milan," continued Leonardo.

"He has no interest in leaving and the club are not even pondering that option either. I don't think they will ever sell him."

Ballack has been ruled out of Germany opener against Costa Rica on Friday.

2006-06-07T03:26:00.000-07:00

Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack has been ruled out of Germany's World Cup opener against Costa Rica on Friday.

Ballack has been struggling with a calf strain sustained in a friendly against Colombia on June 2.

Germany coach Jurgen Klinsmann said: "He is not available. Ballack was forced to end practice yesterday after 30 minutes and it does not look as if he will be able to play tomorrow against Costa Rica."

Klinsmann described his captain's absence as "a pity but not a problem''.

He stated: "He is our leader and our skipper. We had hoped to have him

available. But it's more important for us to get him back in shape so that he can rejoin practice and get in shape for the next matches.''

The 29-year-old has not been able to train since Germany's final warm-up game, but Klinsmann promised that the three-time World Cup winners have enough options to replace him.

"We are in great shape and will do well without him. He will receive treatment around the clock.''

Werder Bremen's Tim Borowski and Borussia Dortmund's Sebastian Kehl now seem likely replacements for the influential skipper.

Ballack scored in the 3-0 victory over Colombia and then spent two days away with his family.

He did not receive any treatment for his injury before Klinsmann assembled his squad in Berlin on Monday.

On Tuesday, Ballack has described his injury as "nagging'' but said he

expected to play.

Klinsmann now says his playmaker will return "as soon as possible''.

"He will be back in full practice as soon as we get the green light from the doctors,'' Klinsmann said.

After the "SCANDAL"..Trezeguet Unsure About Future

2006-06-05T02:21:00.000-07:00

The French striker wants to see how things go with the telephone interceptions scandal before commenting about his future.

David Trezeguet, along with his Juventus team-mates, does not know yet what his future holds, as it is inevitably tied to the fate of the Old Lady.

If the Bianconeri are relegated to Serie B, Trezeguet and most other high-profile players of Juventus will most likely leave the club, but in the mean time the players just want to see how things will go.

"I don't know what to say," commented Trezeguet, "It's too early to tal about it.

"We must wait and see what will happen also for the scandal of the telephone interceptions."

Trezeguet is Juventus' all-time foreign top-scorer after yet another high-scoring season.

Reds Agree £12m Mikel Fee With Chelsea......

2006-06-03T04:42:00.000-07:00

Chelsea Football Club, Manchester United Football Club, FC Lyn Oslo and John Obi Mikel have reached a settlement to resolve the future of the player.

Mikel's registration will be transferred from Lyn to Chelsea FC as soon as possible. Manchester United have also agreed to terminate their option agreement with Mikel.

Under the terms of this agreement Chelsea will pay Manchester United £12million, half payable now and half in 12 months, and Lyn £4million, half payable now, and half payable in 12 months time.

As a result of this settlement all claims in this matter, which Chelsea were never an official party to, are now withdrawn.

The payments do not in any way imply the acceptance of any such claims and have been made solely so that Mikel can resume his career.

Manchester United will support Chelsea in any work permit application if necessary.

All parties have agreed that there will be no further comment on the settlement or any of the allegations or claims.

Holland trio injured in friendly... Holland 1-1 Australia

2006-06-02T01:49:00.000-07:00

while,Philip Cocu (thigh) and Giovanni van Bronckhorst (ankle) also picked up injuries in a bad tempered game.

Everton midfielder Tim Cahill earned Australia an impressive draw against Holland in Rotterdam on Sunday.

The Dutch led through Ruud van Nistelrooy's 27th goal at international level in a bad-tempered match.

But the Socceroos hit back in bizarre fashion when Cahill tapped in after Mark Viduka's penalty hit the bar, the post and keeper Edwin van der Sar.

Wesley Sneijder went off injured, while Luke Wilkshire was sent off for a foul on Giovanni van Bronckhorst.

Sneijder was carried off shortly after the start of the second half with what appeared to be an ankle injury and is now a major doubt for the World Cup.

Van Bronckhorst also came off early following the challenge from Wilkshire, which earned him a deserved red card, and Philip Cocu suffered a thigh injury.

"It's like an episode of M.A.S.H.," said Holland coach Marco van Basten said. "It was some sight in the dressing room.

"But I don't regret the match because it is good to play physical football.

"Generally we played well and created a lot of chances but a match like this gets difficult when you fail to convert them."

Tempers were further frayed under the refereeing of England's Mike Dean after Cahill had cancelled out Van Nistelrooy's ninth-minute strike.

Dean was also heavily criticised by the crowd for missing a handball in the box by Vince Grella when the Dutch were leading.

"We worked hard on physical preparation and tactics and the team did very well," said Australia coach Guus Hiddink.

But while Van Bronckhorst is confident he will shake off his knock in time for the start of the World Cup, there is a doubt surrounding Sneijder's chances.

Dutch coach Marco van Basten said: "Sneijder is limping and his ankle is strapped up.
"We'll have to wait 24 hours to find out how serious it is. We have to wait and see how it develops."

Klinsmann tipped for Germany exit after the world cup.....

2006-05-30T05:33:00.000-07:00

Bayern Munich chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has tipped Jurgen Klinsmann to quit as Germany coach once the World Cup is over.

Speculation in the German media in recent weeks has suggested Klinsmann will walk away from the national team after the forthcoming showpiece in his homeland,

but the former Bayern and Tottenham hitman insists he will make a decision on his future after the finals.

However, Rummenigge believes Klinsmann has already made his mind up to step down, regardless of Germany's performance as host nation.

"I am fully convinced (he will be quitting)," Rummenigge told Eurosport.

"If he is successful, he will have a wonderful farewell. If not, he will

still be going.''

Rummenigge also criticised the German FA (DFB) for overlooking youth

development.

"The problem is that they don´t have a concrete concept (of how to support young players),'' added Rummenigge.

"All the youth work is done by the Bundesliga clubs. The biggest problem is that we don´t have enough good coaches any more, starting from the Bundesliga to the lower division side's and the junior teams."

how ever.......

Jurgen Klinsmann is "fully satisfied" with Germany's World Cup preperations and is upbeat about their chances despite Michael Ballack's injury

Updates on the ITALIAN scandal....The Soccer Hyper-scandal.....

2006-05-30T04:44:00.000-07:00

per calcio..

In May 2006 the Italian public found out (not that we didn't already have suspects...) that Juventus FC,

the most powerful club of the League, had fixed matches for years, probably since 1998.

Its general manager Luciano Moggi (the guy in the pic, aptly nicknamed "Lucky Luciano") had systematically bribed and/or threatened referees.

His phone conversations had been tapped and ended up being published on Italian newspapers.

Moggi hadn't been the only one to do so: most matches were rigged, and there was much more, involving doping, illegal betting, TV rights, corrupted judges etc.

"From what I gather, the investigators have only released 10% of what they know, so there is a lot more to come", said Irish writer and soccer expert Paddy Agnew.

A few weeks before the 2006 World Cup, heads started rolling down: general managers, football federation executives, financial police officers, top referees, coaches, TV anchormen etc.

This Soccergate is now impacting heavily on politics: inquiring magistrates are using machetes to cut into the jumble of conflicts of interest that has shaped both soccer and politics in the past twenty years.

And who's the king of conflicts of interest?

It's the biggest earthquake since the early 1990's Clean Hands investigation on bribery that destroyed all the oldest political parties and forced Silvio Berlusconi to enter the political field.

Italian football scandal latest

A frequently updated summation of the scandal, from the BBC website.
The Background, the investigations, wider implications for Italian soccer.

Luciano Moggi - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

This article documents a current event. Information may change rapidly as the event progresses. Luciano Moggi (born July 10, 1937)

What's black and white and has a foul smell? Ask Signor Moggi

The London Times, May 27, 2006.
THERE ARE 58 million people living in Italy but it's a small world.

Italians call it Italietta, a pejorative term implying that the control of the country is in the hands of a select gang of unscrupulous people.

For almost a month now, Italians have been learning, with bitterness, just how small their country is.

BUT.....

Football is at the centre of the scandal and the lead role is played brilliantly by Luciano Moggi.

for the last updates open here.....

ENGLAND football scandal latest -Match-fixing talk enrages Boston

2006-05-29T04:32:00.000-07:00

Boston chairman Jon Sotnick has reacted angrily to match-fixing allegations surrounding the club's 4-2 loss at Carlisle in March.

There have been claims the fixture could be looked into by the FA because betting markets in Asia were unusually busy before the match played at Brunton Park on March 25.

It is alleged six-figure sums were staked on the Cumbrians - who secured the victory in the last minute with a goal from substitute Simon Hackney - winning by a two-goal margin.

"I am angry, upset and dismayed. It is quite obvious that whoever has started this rumour has a grievance against this football club," Sotnick told Boston's official website.

"I have already instructed lawyers to investigate the matter fully and will do everything in my power to press charges against those that started this ludicrous story.

"Those who don't know me quite obviously underestimate me and I will do everything in my power to protect this football club against further untruths.

"We have worked extremely hard over the last three years to install a footballing culture and this is the last thing we expected. I will continue consulting with our lawyers until I get to the bottom of these events."

An FA spokesman said: "We received a letter on Friday relating to a League Two game and related betting patterns.

"We will now look at it in detail to see if there is any foundation to the letter."

Gunners ace Pires says au revoir..he say "good bye to the gunnerz..."

2006-05-25T06:13:00.000-07:00

Robert Pires has ended his six-year association with Arsenal by deciding to join Spanish side Villarreal on a two-year deal.

The 32-year-old French midfielder, who won the World Cup in 1998, had hoped to extend his stay with the Gunners as they prepared for the start of a new era at the Emirates Stadium, but wanted the security of a longer-term deal rather than a 12-month extension which was on offer.

In all, Pires made a total of 284 appearances for Arsenal, scoring 84 goals following his £6million move from Marseille during the summer of 2000, when he also helped Les Bleus to European Championship glory.

The midfielder, named Football Writers' Player of the Year in 2002, was instrumental in the Gunners' recent success, helping Arsene Wenger's side to two league championships and collecting two FA Cup winners' medals.

However, his last appearance for Arsenal ended in disappointment when he was substituted after just 20 minutes of the Champions League final against Barcelona in Paris following the dismissal of goalkeeper Jens Lehmann.

Pires maintains he will only have fond memories of his time at Highbury.

He said: "After six wonderful years at Arsenal, full of fantastic moments, I have decided to accept a new challenge at Villarreal for the next two years of my career.

"I am very grateful to Arsène Wenger, the players and all the fans for their amazing support over the years."

Wenger moved to strengthen his midfield options earlier this week with the signing of Czech Republic international Tomas Rosicky, 25.

The Arsenal manager, however, knows his squad will be poorer for the departure of Pires.

Wenger said: "Robert has had six tremendous years with us and made a huge contribution to the team's success during his time here.

"He is not only a great footballer but a good man, so of course, we are sad to see him go.

"It is difficult to pick out one or two highlights - but he was superb in our double winning season during the 2001/02 campaign and contributed so hugely to our unbeaten season with 19 goals.

"I would like to thank Robert for the dedication, determination and passion he has shown and wish him well in his career."

Italian football scandal latest news......

2006-05-25T02:20:00.000-07:00

Italian football has been thrown into disarray with champions Juventus under investigation for match-fixing and illegal betting.

Juve clinched their 29th Italian championship on Sunday 14 May when they beat Reggina 2-0, which ensured they finished three points ahead of rivals AC Milan.

But Juventus are suspected of match-fixing in the 2004/05 season and could even be relegated to Serie B if they are found guilty.

Former Juve general manager Luciano Moggi is at the centre of the scandal after Italian papers published transcripts of calls from 2004 in which he tells referees' chief Pierluigi Pairetto which officials he wants assigned to Juventus games.

WWW.LUCASSONA.BLOGSPOT.COM; Sport keeps up to date on the scandal threatening to blow a hole in one of the world's most famous leagues.

24 MAY LATEST
Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has spoken to investigators in Parma as part of a probe into football gambling.

After the meeting he rejoined Italy's World Cup squad at its headquarters at Coverciano in Tuscany.

The Juventus goalkeeper, who was accompanied by Italy team manager Gigi Riva, has denied any wrongdoing.

After volunteering to give a statement to Turin magistrates this month, Buffon said any bets he made were on foreign games at a time when they did not break Italy's strict gambling regulations.

Last week the Italian Football Federation said they saw no reason why Buffon should not be included in Marcello Lippi's 23-man squad for the World Cup, which starts on 9 June.

The Parma investigation is not connected to the widespread probe by Rome and Naples magistrates into allegations of match-fixing.

THE BACKGROUND
The entire Juventus board resigned after recorded telephone conversations between general manager Luciano Moggi and high-ranked Italian football federation officials were published in Italian newspapers.

Moggi resigned on Sunday 14 May and he has now been placed under formal investigation for suspected false accounting and tax evasion.

On Thursday 18 May, Italy's financial police searched the club's offices and went through documents in the presence of Turin prosecutor Bruno Tinti.

Ibrahmiovic's house was searched as part of the investigation

The houses of Moggi and former Juve director Antonio Giraudo and those of current players Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Fabio Cannavaro were also searched.

At an emergency meeting on Friday 19 May, Juventus named Carlo Sant'Albano as their acting managing director until June 29, when shareholders will decide on a new board.

The Turin club has lost more than 40% of its value since 9 May, before its board resigned, and is now worth about £112m.

In Naples, the Italian football federation will meet with investigators as they began a race against time to conclude their own inquiry in time to enter Italian clubs for next season's Champions League and Uefa Cup.

Italy coach Marcello Lippi has been given a vote of confidence by Italian football federation commissioner Guido Rossi.

Lippi was questioned for three-and-a-half hours in Rome on Friday as part of an investigation into the dealings of football agents GEA.

Prosecutors were trying to establish whether Lippi was pressured by Moggi to call up certain players, and whether he was in fact influenced.

Moggi's son, Alessandro Moggi, heads GEA World and Lippi's son, Davide Lippi, also works for the agency.

Meanwhile, the host of Italy's most popular television football show, Aldo Biscardi, has resigned after allegations he collaborated with Moggi to boost the image of Juventus.

THE INVESTIGATIONS
There are four criminal investigations going on which are linked to the scandal in Italian football. They are in:

NAPLES - This started after the telephone conversations were leaked to the press. The central figure is Luciano Moggi, but magistrates are questioning 41 people after identifying 19 matches which they believe to be suspicious.

ROME - Concerning GEA, the largest company of football agents in Italy with over 220 professional footballers and coaches on their books. It is run by Moggi's son Alessandro.

TURIN - Magistrates are looking into the transfer dealings of Juventus. Moggi and another former Juventus director, Antonio Giraudo, are suspected of falsifying accounts and tax evasion.

PARMA - Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon and three former players, Antonio Chimenti, Mark Iuliano and Enzo Maresca, are under investigation for alleged illegal gambling on Serie A matches.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS FOR ITALIAN FOOTBALL
On Tuesday 16 May, the Italian football federation (FIGC) was placed under administration in response to the crisis which has engulfed the sport in Italy.

Former senator Guido Rossi was named as "extraordinary commissioner" of the beleaguered governing body and the 75-year-old is set to introduce a raft of new legislation to clean up Italian football's reputation.

His appointment came after a week that saw FIGC president Franco Carraro and vice-president Innocenzo Mazzini resign amid allegations that the governing body had allowed Juve to choose referees for their games.

Prosecutors are investigating four Serie A clubs - Juventus, Lazio, AC Milan and Fiorentina - in a match-fixing probe.

A separate probe into illegal betting involves Juventus and Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon, who has denied wrongdoing.

More than 40 people have also been ordered by Naples prosecutors to appear for questioning for suspected criminal association.

It is now feared that the new season in Italy will not be able to start on time in August - with some commentators suggesting October might be more realistic.

Shevchenko decision due in a week ........

2006-05-23T03:02:00.000-07:00

Andriy Shevchenko will decide next week whether he will stay at AC Milan or move to Premiership champions Chelsea.

The 29-year-old Ukraine striker's deal expires in June 2009 but the club have offered him a two-year extension.

Asked if he was heading for England, Shevchenko told Gazzetta dello Sport: "I'm considering it and you will know my decision on the 24th or 25th May.

"I never said I had made my mind up to go to Chelsea. I just said that I was thinking about it for family reasons."

Shevchenko had said earlier this month that he was considering leaving the club this summer for family reasons.

He is married to American model Kristen Pazik and has insisted that a move to England would not be for financial reasons.

He added: "When you play for a successful club, it is not easy to find the time to learn another language.

"I don't speak the language of my wife and my son."

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho and chief executive Peter Kenyon have confirmed their interest in signing the former European Footballer of the Year and Milan president Silvio Berlusconi has hinted Shevchenko may end up playing in England.

Shevchenko joined Milan from Dynamo Kiev in 1999 and has scored 19 Serie A goals this season.

He will captain Ukraine at the World Cup finals in Germany this summer.

Ze Roberto to Leaves Bayern.........

2006-05-22T14:32:00.000-07:00

Brazilian international winger Ze Roberto is to leave Bayern Munich after failing to agree a contract extension with the German champions

"Unfortunately, we've been unable to bring negotiations with Ze to a successful conclusion," said Bayern general manager Uli Hoeneß in a statement released on the club's official Web site. "We wish him all the best for the World Cup in Germany, and then much success for the rest of his sporting career," he added.

The former Bayer Leverkusen midfielder played 110 Bundesliga matches for Bayern and scored five goals since his move from the works club in 2002.

Johan Cruyff: "Thierry Henry decision a mistake..."

2006-05-22T01:49:00.000-07:00

Barcelona great Johan Cruyff is adamant Thierry Henry "will regret his decision not to join the Catalan giants. "

Henry opted to sign a new contract at Arsenal on Friday despite interest from Barca, who beat the Gunners on Wednesday night in the Champions League final.

Dutchman Cruyff, who played for and coached the Nou Camp outfit, said: "In the cold light of day, without looking inside his head, I think that he has made a mistake.

"He has taken a decision in the heat of the moment when you should make them with a lot of consideration.

"With his track record of what he has achieved in France and England it only lacked a spell in Spain to give him the rubber stamp. This spell could have been at Barcelona."

also,Cruyff believes Barca will find it difficult next season to defend their European and Spanish crowns.

He added: "Next year everything starts again from zero, nothing has been won and it is easier to arrive than to maintain success.

"For this reason it would have been good that Henry signed because he is a great player."

Barcelona are currently searching for reinforcements in attack.

Henrik Larsson is returning to his native Sweden while Henry's snub came as a major disappointment.

Villarreal's former Manchester United striker Diego Forlan is the latest player to be linked with Frank Rijkaard's men.

Beckham keen to end career at Real..........

2006-05-22T01:26:00.000-07:00

England captain David Beckham says he wants to end his career at Real Madrid after revealing he has no ambitions to play for anyone else

The 31-year-old admits being sold by Manchester United to Real in 2003 left him in tears and, despite being linked with a return to the Premiership, would not want to play for another English club apart from United.

"There are other great clubs in England of course, there's Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool," said Beckham.

"It's here (Madrid) or Manchester United, that's the way I feel about the situation to be honest.

"The only club I would've ever have gone to apart from Manchester United was here."

When asked he wants to end his career at the Bernabeu, where he has failed to win a trophy in his three-year stay so far,

Beckham said: "I think so because at the end of my career I want to be known as a player that's played at a top level, for the best teams, and they don't come much better and bigger than Manchester United and Real Madrid."

Beckham was part of the United side that dominated domestic football in the 1990s and he also won the treble in 1999, but by 2003 his relationship with manager Sir Alex Ferguson appeared to put his future at the club in doubt.

"That's what hurt at the time because, as I said, everyone knows that I'm a Manchester United fan, Manchester United mad," he said on the ITV1 documentary David Beckham: A Footballer's Story, which is screened on Tuesday evening.

"I think at the time, when I'd signed for Real Madrid, and when I got home, I think I actually cried because it was Manchester United, it was a team that I'd been at for my whole life."

He added: "People were saying that I was having talks, I was already talking to Real Madrid.

"I never talked to Real Madrid until I actually got the phone call to say `the club want to sell you'.

"And that's the first time I spoke to Madrid about that. I never ever expected to leave United."

Former team-mate and close friend Gary Neville added: "I genuinely believe that David is still probably upset about the fact that he's left United because he loves the club, he grew up loving the club.

"You can't grow up from the age of four or five having something as being part of your life and then expect that it's not going to hurt you."

Despite failing to pick up a trophy, Beckham has impressed in Spain with his performances on the right flank or in central midfield. Although he admits he misses England, he now feels settled in Madrid.

He added: "We've finally found a house that we like here, we've found an area we like, it's in the same area as where the kids' school is. Everything's settled down.

"I want to learn the language, I want to settle down here, my children are happy here, my family's happy here, I'm happy playing football here."

2006-05-20T04:25:00.000-07:00

Holland coach Marco van Basten has told Ruud van Nistelrooy he will be in his World Cup squad 1st team,regardless of the situation at Manchester United

The 29-year-old striker has been on the bench for United's last five games

Van Basten told Dutch magazine Voetbal: "I made clear to him that he should not worry about his place.

"I think he'll get more playing time. If not, that's also no problem."

Van Nistelrooy is the joint leading scorer in the Premiership this season with 21 goals

Meanwhile,
speculation continues that Van Nistelrooy's career at Old Trafford may be over after he was left out for the final Premiership match of the season against Charlton and then banned from appearing in Keane's testimonial against Celtic.

Referee regrets Lehmann red card....Fifa president Sepp Blatter criticised referee's decision

2006-05-19T05:13:00.000-07:00

Referee Terje Hauge has admitted he may have acted too quickly in sending off Arsenal keeper Jens Lehmann during Barcelona's Champions League triumph

Hauge dismissed Lehmann in the 18th minute for fouling Samuel Eto'o, with Ludovic Giuly's resulting effort ruled out as Hauge had blown for a free-kick.

"I would have liked to have taken a few more seconds before I made a decision," Hauge told a Norwegian newspaper.

"If I'd done that, I could have given a goal and given a yellow card as well."

In other circumstances I would perhaps have done something different with Lehmann

Referee Terje Hauge

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger and captain Thierry Henry have both slammed Hauge's performance in Paris and claimed his decisions favoured the Spanish side.

But the Norwegian said he was pleased with his overall display as Barcelona won the match 2-1 thanks to goals from Eto'o and Juliano Belletti.

And he said the Lehmann incident was a difficult one to judge after the German became the first player to be sent off in a European Cup final.

He added: "We had full control of the match and all in all I'm quite happy with my performance.

"Under other circumstances I would perhaps have done something different with Lehmann, but this mostly rested on the positioning in relation to the situation.

"Everything happens quickly on the pitch and for me it looked as if there was physical contact.

"As well as that it happened in the linesman's working area and I had no reason to doubt him in this instance.

"It was obviously a big game for Arsenal, and to lose is a huge disappointment so I understand their frustration. But we'll have to give it a few days so we can discuss this more sensibly."

Fifa president Sepp Blatter criticised the referee's decision to send off Lehmann.

He told BBC Radio Five Live: "My opinion is that, when in certain actions - and not only in front of the goalmouth, but everywhere - he should let the advantage, finish the action and then he can come back and whistle.

added "He was too fast."

2006-05-19T04:50:00.000-07:00

Inter Milan are reportedly lining up a £10million bid to end Ruud van Nistelrooy's Manchester United nightmare this summer

The Dutchman has fallen firmly out of favour with United boss Sir Alex Ferguson, who often preferred Louis Saha to him last season and angered the Holland hot-shot by playing youngster Giuseppe Rossi ahead of him for the last game of the campaign against Charlton.

Ferguson has shown in the past that he is not afraid to offload big-name players, showing Jaap Stam, Paul Ince and David Beckham the Old Trafford door when they fell out with the fiery Scotsman.

And it seems Inter, who captured Ince from United, are keen to recruit van Nistelrooy's services, with their top striker Adriano possibly on the way out of the San Siro to join Real Madrid.

Reports in Italy's Gazzetta Dello Sport, however, suggest Massimo Moratti's targets lie elsewhere - with Juventus ace David Trezeguet and Fiorentina ace Luca Toni attracting his attention.

Trezeguet has been linked with a move away from Juve for a while, and Toni is one of the hottest striking properties in Europe after finishing top scorer in Serie A this term

Inter Milan are poised to make a £10million bid for Manchester United outcast Ruud van Nistelrooy. The Italian giants are understood to have sounded out van Nistelrooy's agent and United about the prospect of signing the out-of-favour Dutchman. Although United value van Nistelrooy higher than £10m, they are understood to be willing to accept Inter's
offer.

Henry signing deal this afternoon ..set to confirm Henry deal

2006-05-19T03:47:00.000-07:00

Arsenal have called a 2pm press conference where they are expected to announce striker Thierry Henry has signed a new four-year deal

The Gunners captain has announced his intention to remain with the club instead of moving to Barcelona, Real Madrid or AC Milan, who were all interested in signing the France international.

A senior club source said: "There are just one or two things left to be finalised but we are hoping to make an announcement later today."

Henry will put pen to paper on the contract at London Colney this afternoon.

The 28-year-old has decided he wants to captain the club at their new Emirates Stadium after being convinced by Arsenal's battling performance in the Champions League final on Wednesday night.

He told The Sun: "I hope to stay for as long as I can keep running. I could not face leaving the fans. They are like my family.

"My team showed me I didn't have to leave. They showed me they had heart.

"Everything was up in the air for a very long time. But at the end of the day, the team raised their game.

"Don't get me wrong. I love Barcelona. But on Wednesday night, Arsenal showed me they had heart."

Henry has only 12 months left on his current contract and there had been claims a deal with Barcelona had already been wrapped up.

But the striker's passion for Arsenal shone through following the final, and he even talked in disparaging tones about some Barcelona players.

On the flight back to London he also dropped a huge hint when, addressing passengers in the plane over the intercom,

he said: "We must pick ourselves up and make sure we come back stronger next year."

His decision to stay is a huge boost to the club ahead of their move to their new Emirates Stadium next season.

It will also help cushion the loss of striker Dennis Bergkamp, who is retiring after 11 years' service to the club.

Former Arsenal goalkeeper Bob Wilson told BBC Radio Five Live: "I was very confident he would stay and just thrilled, as all fans will be.

"We are still a bit edgy and miserable but it's a fantastic boost for the fans."

Wilson added: "Thierry's decision is just incredibly wonderful news."

Ashley Cole.."I am prepared for Ronaldinho test ....."

2006-05-17T04:19:00.000-07:00

Arsenal's Ashley Cole will be out to banish his Ronaldinho nightmare when he faces the Brazilian in the Champions League final against Barcelona.

Cole admits he was caught out when Ronaldinho set up Brazil's first goal against England in the 2002 World Cup.

"I've fell for one of his stepovers at the World Cup," said the left-back. "He nearly put me on the floor.

"He is an amazing player but hopefully it brings out the best in you when you play against the best in the world."

Ronaldinho picked up the ball in his own half during the quarter-final between the two countries in Japan before running at the heart of a backtracking England defence.

He laid the ball to Rivaldo to equalise for Brazil before his free-kick, which looped over keeper David Seaman, earned Brazil a 2-1 victory.

Ronaldinho was later sent-off but had already inflicted the damage.

The memory still lingers in Cole's memory but he has warned that Arsenal will also have to be wary of Barcelona's other attacking players, including striker Samuel Eto'o and midfielder Deco.

He's probably had a lot on his mind and to do what he has done he's been unbelievable

Ashley Cole on Thierry Henry

He added: "It's not just Ronaldinho but Eto'o and Deco plus other great players and it is going to be a tough game."

Arsenal have their own star player in captain Thierry Henry and Cole has praised the striker for his goalscoring exploits this season, despite the speculation surrounding his future.

Barcelona are aiming to sign the Frenchman this summer, and Henry has repeatedly said he will decide his future before the World Cup starts next month.

"He's probably had a lot on his mind and to do what he has done he's been unbelievable," said Cole.

"He's a great captain and he gets everybody up for the game which you want your captain to do.

"He's scores goals and sets them up. What more do you want in a player? He's a great person as well."

"You always know he is going to give 100% and you always feel you are going to win the game with him in your side and he has done brilliant this season.

"People say he's a moaner but he's nothing like that. He's a great guy and a great player and a natural born winner."

Rijkaard ignores 'favourites' tag...To think we're favourites is a mistake..

2006-05-17T03:51:00.000-07:00

Barcelona coach Frank Rijkaard says his players will not be affected by their favourites tag for the Champions League final against Arsenal.

"My players are very excited, motivated and very united," Rijkaard said. "But to think that we are favourites to win would be a grave error.

"Everything starts with being humble and we know we have to go for them from the first minute.

"All I want is that my players show how they can play, nothing more."

Rijkaard will give Lionel Messi as long as possible to prove his fitness after a thigh injury, but is upbeat about his side's chances even if the Argentina international cannot feature in Paris.

It says a lot that Arsenal have conceded only two goals in the whole competition

Barcelona coach Frank Rijkaard

"We have a lot of confidence in ourselves," Rijkaard said.

"This game is not only important for the club but for the players and for the Barca fans.

"We know we have to play a great game against a very good side in order to win."

Barca have the best scoring record in the Champions League this season - with 22 goals - but Rijkaard knows Arsenal's defence will not be easy to break down.

The Gunners have kept a clean sheet in their last 10 European games - setting a record in the process -

and Rijkaard said: "It says a lot that they have conceded only two goals in the whole competition.

"Results have gone their way and this has given their players a lot of confidence.

"But this is a final and it's going to be very interesting."

The Barcelona coach says he will not change his tactics to stifle Arsenal captain Thierry Henry, who is the Gunners' main attacking threat.

"Henry is a great player," Rijkaard added. "But we cannot change everything just for one player."

Puyol: .....We'll mirror Gunners' ethic....at the final in paris

2006-05-16T05:04:00.000-07:00

Captain Carles Puyol believes Barcelona should imitate Arsenal's work ethic on the pitch in Wednesday's Champions League final in Paris.

Puyol will lift the European title at the Stade de France, the club's second in their history, provided the Catalan outfit beat the Gunners.

"When I joined Barcelona's first team I always thought of winning titles, especially in important competitions like the Champions League," said Puyol.

"To play in Champions League finals is the maximum for any player and I'm very happy and very grateful to be in this position."

The Spain international was only 14 when Barca clinched their first European crown in 1992 and believes the time has come to add another one to their trophy gallery.

"I remember watching that 1992 final alone in a room in my house," he said.

"I was so nervous. Many years have passed since then and now we have the chance to repeat that success and we must make the most of it."

The 28-year-old expects a tight battle from an Arsenal side which are determined to register their first success in Europe's premier club competition.

"We don't consider ourselves favourites," he said. "This is a final and in such a special game it's always 50-50. We have a lot of respect for Arsenal.

"I think the fact Arsene Wenger's side has done so well, that they haven't conceded a goal in so many games, is down to the hard work of the whole team.

"It would be impossible for a team to be 10 European games with a clean sheet if they didn't have a great team, not just a good defence or a good goalkeeper."

Puyol is well aware if his side want to stop the likes of Arsenal captain Thierry Henry and eventually beat the Gunners they will have to use the same approach.

"All of us have to work well defensively, as a team, in order to make sure that we stop Henry and the rest of them," he said.

"We cannot simply obsess on Henry because even though everyone talks about him, Arsenal have other great quality players like Cesc Fabregas or Jose Antonio Reyes that can turn around the game."

The Spanish club will attempt to join the select band of European clubs (Liverpool, Ajax and Bayern Munich) to have claimed their domestic title and European Cup on more than one occasion, having previously achieved the feat in the 1991-92 campaign.

"Before the game I will tell my players that we have to give everything on the pitch. To fight as hard as we can and hope that everything goes well," said Puyol.

"The key to this game is to try to impose our play knowing they will also be looking to take control.

"I think the team who is able to take command and take advantage of the early opportunities they get will win."

Puyol believes Henry will have an added motivation to do well.

Henry has been linked with a move away from Highbury this summer, with Barcelona among the clubs keen to acquire his services.

"When you go on the pitch, you forget about all that has been said," said Puyol.

"All you think about is winning and helping your team do well and I think Henry will do this.

"Henry is a great player and whether or not he will come here next summer, we have to show some respect for the players that are currently at Barca."

Ballack: We can be Euro champions.......

2006-05-16T04:45:00.000-07:00

Michael Ballack says he moved to Chelsea to win the Champions League - and claims he can share the midfield goals burden with Frank Lampard

Ballack signed a three-year deal at Stamford Bridge on Monday after a free transfer from Bayern Munich.

He received a wealth of offers from other top clubs, including Manchester United, but was impressed by Chelsea's strength and ambition.

Ballack, 29, said: "The prime reason for coming here was the Champions League.

"There are a lot of good teams in Europe but Chelsea can get there.

"They were unfortunate to meet Barcelona this season and I can see Chelsea making a big step forward in the Champions League."

Ballack has won everything worth winning in Germany. He has four Bundesliga titles, three German FA Cups and a League Cup, but he has not won a European trophy.

The midfielder made it to the Champions League final with Bayer Leverkusen in 2002 but the Germans were beaten by Real Madrid.

He also helped Germany to the final of the 2002 World Cup but was suspended from the defeat against Brazil.

Ballack, who has 30 goals in 63 matches for his country, said: "I've been on the edge before but these things depend on luck.

"There are never any guarantees you will win a title. The expectations at Bayern Munich were similar to Chelsea.

"Other fans know about Chelsea. They are at the top and they want to beat them. The challenge is keeping the team at the top."

The Germany captain admits Blues manager Jose Mourinho was one of the major reasons he chose Chelsea.

Ballack said: "Jose Mourinho has been successful in the Champions League. He is a manager who wants to win.

"He has experienced a lot as manager of Porto and Chelsea and he sets the target for his players to follow him.

"He is quite young but he's achieved a lot. The team has world class players but they still look up to Mourinho. He has built a great team here."

Mourinho said he intends to play Ballack and Frank Lampard together in midfield even though they have very similar styles.

Both players like to drive forward from the middle of midfield and threaten the goal.

Ballack said: "It's a question of building the team. Frank Lampard and myself play in roughly the same position.

"Frank has great responsibility at Chelsea because of the number of goals he scores and I can help him share the burden. The responsibility can be shared.

"There are a lot of good midfielders in the Premier League and I'm not so selfish to think I am going to be the number one.

"It is not part of my make-up to be the top midfielder. I want to be part of the team.

"You can have good players in a team and not win anything. The challenge for me is to be part of a winning team."

Mourinho expects to bring more new faces to Stamford Bridge this summer and is still anxious to sign a striker.

AC Milan's Andriy Shevchenko, Inter's Adriano and Carlos Tevez of Corinthians, in Brazil, have all been linked with Chelsea.

Mourinho said: "He will not be the first of many but he will be the first of a few.

"We do not need a lot of players. We just need two or three very good players. We are champions and to improve we need to sign champions."

but the question is ...where will ballack play???

chelsea already have LAMPARD ,ESSIEN, MAKELELE,COLE and ROBEN

AFTER the scandal....Juve boss LUCIANO MOGGI .... quits amid fixing probe

2006-05-15T04:34:00.000-07:00

Moggi is one of 41 people being investigated

Luciano Moggi, who is at the centre of an investigation into alleged corruption in Italian football, has quit as general manager of Juventus.

"From Monday I will have resigned. From this day the world of football is no longer my world," Moggi said.

"Now I'll think about defending myself from the malice said about me."

He has been linked to the publication of telephone taps involving talks with Italy football federation officials regarding refereeing appointments.

Referee Massimo De Santis, who is set to officiate at the World Cup next month, is also being investigated in the probe.

Moggi, along with Juve chief executive Antonio Giraudo, are two of 41 people under formal investigation.

Giraudo, who is also mentioned in the publication of taps, is under investigation for possible false accounting relating to transfer dealings.

Six-times European champions AC Milan as well as Lazio feature in the probe of 19 league games from last season.

In Rome, police searched the soccer federation's offices and those of the referees' association.

at the same time ,"Scandal-hit Juve win league title "

Juventus have won the Italian Serie A title for the second year in a row

The crisis led incoming Prime Minister Romano Prodi to suggest that a political 'commisar' be put in charge of the Italian

CLICK HERE TO VIEW MORE....!!!!

Chelsea confirm Ballack's arrival

2006-05-14T08:20:00.000-07:00

Ballack was jeered in his last appearance for Bayern on SaturdayChelsea are set to complete the signing of Germany captain Michael Ballack.

The Premiership champions have called a media conference for Monday, when they will announce that Ballack has joined on a free transfer from Bayern Munich

The 29-year-old had already said he was leaving Bayern but Chelsea had not previously admitted a deal was done.

Jose Mourinho said: "I'm happy and very proud. I'm happy with the
conversation I had with him and that's the reason he decided to come here."

Chelsea, who have also been linked with forwards Andriy Shevchenko and Samuel Eto'o, have said they want to sign three new players this summer.

Ballack, who led Bayern to three Bundesliga championships and three German cups in his four years in Munich, was jeered by fans in his final appearance for the club against Borussia Dortmund.

I wasn't trying to mess anyone about
Germany midfielder Michael Ballack

The midfielder scored Bayern's third goal in the 3-3 draw.

After the game he blamed the club's management for manipulating public sentiment against him after he said he wanted to move to Chelsea next season.

"Those things got whipped up a bit in recent weeks after some remarks by the club's management," Ballack told Premiere television.

"The fans are sensitive to what is said. But I always tried hard to do my job and that should be honoured.

"I want a new challenge now. I've got to accept some jeering. It shows I was an important player but it does hurt."

The jeers began at a ceremony before the match when Ballack, Bixente Lizarazu and Jens Jeremies, who are also leaving the club, were given flowers.

The booing continued into the first half until Bayern commercial manager Uli Honess went out in front of the crowd to appeal to the fans to stop jeering.

"I wasn't trying to mess anyone about," Ballack added.

"I was not able to make a decision sooner and couldn't force a decision just because Bayern managers demanded one.

"There are a lot of others at Bayern who don't know whether they have a future at Bayern Munich or not.

"I've had a great time here and felt good with a great team that won a lot of titles."

Spurs Sickness May Not Have Been Food Poisoning

2006-05-11T09:17:00.000-07:00

An inquiry into the bug which afflicted 10 Tottenham players before their vital match at west Ham has cast doubt on suggestions that they were victims of food poisoning

The players had eaten at a London hotel before the Premiership match, which they lost 2-1 to the Hammers. The result helped their great rivals Arsenal overtake them to secure fourth place, and with it a Champions League berth ahead of them.

Tests on food samples and affected players have been carried out by the Health Protection Agency and environmental health staff, but they suggest that one person had a form of gastroenteritis - which may have spread to the other players.

Dr Alex Mellanby, Consultant in Communicable Disease Control at the Health Protection Agency, said norovirus, a form of viral gastroenteritis, was found in a sample from one of those affected.

But he added: "No definite conclusion as to the cause of the outbreak can be drawn from this one result.

"Only after we have received the results from tests being undertaken on further samples will we be able to make any definite conclusions."

He said the person affected by viral gastroenteritis appeared to have been exposed to it before the stay at the Marriott Hotel in Canary Wharf, east London.

First team players including Michael Dawson, Edgar Davids, Michael Carrick and Robbie Keane went down with the illness - although all four played in the game.

The FA Premier League has since rejected Tottenham's request to replay the match.

Gallas mulls over contract buyout

2006-05-11T09:10:00.000-07:00

William Gallas is set to buy himself out of the final year of his contract at Chelsea unless the club agree to "sell him in the next two weeks."

The move is allowed by FIFA rules, and according to The Independent would cost the 28-year-old French defender a cool £5million.

He could then negotiate with other clubs.

It appears Gallas has decided to leave England and wants to test himself in either Italy or Spain - he has already narrowed the clubs he wants to play for down to either AC Milan, Juventus or Barcelona.

Chelsea had reportedly been hoping to persuade Gallas to stay at the club with a pay rise, and his decision to leave is a big blow for Peter Kenyon and Jose Mourinho.

The player meanwhile is hoping an amicable agreement can be reached for his departure.

If Gallas does go, Chelsea's summer transfer plans will be affected as they'll need a left-back to replace him. According to newspaper reports they've registered an interest in Real Madrid's Roberto Carlos.

Another player apparently set to leave Stamford Bridge is Icelandic international striker Eidur Gudjohnsen.

The Icelander's father, Arnor, who also represents him, confirmed to The Independent: "We are still in contact with Chelsea about his future and hopefully by the end of the week we'll have clarification."

SEVILLE FC - UEFA CUP CHAMPIONS 2005/06

2006-05-11T08:25:00.000-07:00

Historical night at Eindhoven for Seville FC & SpanishFootball. No one would have imagined before the matchthat the score would end 0-4 in Seville favor.
Seville´sfirst ever European Title - the UEFA Cup 2005/06.Thanks to Spanish sports dailys AS & Marca for the picsyou can link directly to them from here if wished. Letsbegin the round up , where I think, pictures speak a 1000words.

The Seville FC line up at the start of the match.This picture has become historical & will hang on manywalls for many, many years to come.

The Middlesbrough FC line up - worthy finalists, they canbe proud.

First goal - Luis Fabiano, outstanding header , excellentgame - 0-1(27´min)

Maresca - 2 goals - brilliant split Middlesbrough apart fromthe midfield (78´&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp; 84´min) 0-2;0-3

Kanouté - substitute that scored the final goal; 0-4 ( 89´min)

A solid game by the Spaniards, who have many greatplayers that need to be mentioned: David Alves ( greatfuture ahead for this man);

David ( solid right back);Navarro ( Captain & the defensive wall) & Palop(the goalkeeper) who pulled off - God knows how - avital save from Viduka, that could have been the draw forMiddlesbrough (1-1 that was´nt) & could have put themback in the game.

Lastly, a possible penalty that left usyes, no, yes & wasn´t called for Middlesbrough...harsh.

Excellent team play on the whole by Seville & worthywinners

Congratulations to Middlesbrough as well, it justwas´nt their night.

No words can fill the empty spaceof losing a final - we all know - but they have representedtheir country well throught the whole

tournament.SEVILLE FC - UEFA CUP CHAMPIONS2005/2006

Man Utd set date for Smith return

2006-05-11T08:19:00.000-07:00

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson says midfielder Alan Smith could be back by early September, seven months after breaking his leg.

Smith has returned to light jogging after suffering a double leg-break in the FA Cup defeat at Liverpool blocking a John Arne Riise free-kick.

"I would think he will be back towards the beginning of September," Ferguson told Manchester United Radio.

"There is no mental block, it doesn't bother him. His approach is amazing."

Ferguson does not expect the 25-year-old to be back in time to play a significant part in United's pre-season campaign, but hopes to have the former Leeds player available soon.

"He still has a bit of a limp but he was out on the training ground last week walking around and went for a little jog," he said

Gallas mulls over contract buyout

2006-05-10T09:05:00.000-07:00

William Gallas is set to buy himself out of the final year of his contract at Chelsea unless the club" agree to sell him in the next two weeks."

The move is allowed by FIFA rules, and according to The Independent would cost the 28-year-old French defender a cool £5million.

He could then negotiate with other clubs.

It appears Gallas has decided to leave England and wants to test himself in either Italy or Spain - he has already narrowed the clubs he wants to play for down to either AC Milan, Juventus or Barcelona.

Chelsea had reportedly been hoping to persuade Gallas to stay at the club with a pay rise, and his decision to leave is a big blow for Peter Kenyon and Jose Mourinho.

The player meanwhile is hoping an amicable agreement can be reached for his departure.

If Gallas does go, Chelsea's summer transfer plans will be affected as they'll need a left-back to replace him. According to newspaper reports they've registered an interest in Real Madrid's Roberto Carlos.

Another player apparently set to leave Stamford Bridge is Icelandic international striker Eidur Gudjohnsen.

The Icelander's father, Arnor, who also represents him, confirmed to The Independent: "We are still in contact with Chelsea about his future and hopefully by the end of the week we'll have clarification."

Chelsea star Wayne Bridge,hurt at Mayfair club

2006-05-09T04:59:00.000-07:00

Bridge, 25, who had reportedly been celebrating the end of the league season, suffered a head injury but did not go to hospital.

Police were called to the the exclusive Embassy nightclub in London's Mayfair in the early hours of Monday morning.

The BBC said Bridge was thought to have been attending a private party with Chelsea and Arsenal players to celebrate the end of the season.

He suffered a cut and bruise to his face, according to the report.

One man was held on suspicion of assault, while two others were arrested on suspicion of using racist language towards a police officer.

A Scotland Yard spokeswoman said: "At 2am on Monday, officers in central London went to a disturbance outside a nightclub on Old Burlington Street.

"A man suffered minor injuries to his head. London Ambulance Service attended but he refused further treatment. He did not go to hospital.

"A 34-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of assault and has been released on bail. Two further men were arrested on suspicion of using racist language and have also been bailed."

It is understood that no footballers were arrested.

Bridge, who spent part of the season on loan at Fulham, was named in Sven-Goran Eriksson's provisional 23-man squad for this summer's World Cup in Germany.

His lawyer had no comment to make on the story.

What England Should Do Without Rooney.......?????

2006-05-05T04:53:00.002-07:00

On Saturday the one thing that all England fans didn’t want to happen typically happened,
as Wayne Rooney ,broke a bone in his foot and is now a major doubt for the World Cup finals

When the 20-year-old went down in obvious agony the concern was shared by Manchester United and Chelsea supports and for that matter all those will be cheering on the three lions this summer.

The fears were realised hours later when it was revealed the dreaded metatarsal had struck again,
but while he isn’t definitely out it has to be assumed that England will be without their best player

England "have many good players and some exceptional stars, but Rooney is something different

He has the qualities that only a handful of players in the World have and so he simply can’t be replaced, especially at international level.

However, while our chances have been greatly reduced you can’t give up hope, so what is plan B......????

How can Sven-Goran Eriksson reduce the effect of Rooney’s loss.....? ???

England don’t have many world class strikers and other than Rooney there is only one player I can imagine playing in a World Cup winning team,

That is Michael Owen. Assuming "IF" he is fit to play, which is far from certain, then who should partner him, or play behind him..???

Peter Crouch...??? Err please god no!!!..

He seems to be Eriksson’s third choice striker, which is scary. I do not think the big man is good enough, not even close. Darren Bent and Jermain Defoe? Decent strikers, but World Cup winners? No!

As a result....
I think Eriksson needs to think of a different option altogether and I believe this is what he should now do:

The closest thing England have to Wayne Rooney is Joe Cole.

They are clearly very different players,

but they have matchwinning qualities and the ability to do the exceptional.

However, granted Cole is more of a winger, but the way Chelsea play he has frequently taken the role of a support striker,

which is now what England need.

So play Cole in an almost free-role behind Owen and then play a typical winger in his place on the left flank.

Stewart Downing of Middlesbrough is a traditional winger and while untested at this level could be an option for Sven,

As could Tottenham’s right-winger Aaron Lennon, who has looked more than comfortable on the left.

His versatility could therefore be key and is a reason why he needs to be on the plane to Germany.

While inexperienced the two players mentioned would be better than playing a central midfielder out of position, which has so often been the case.

This option will not make up for the loss of Rooney, but it should be England’s next best option.

Do you agree....?????

Let us know what other alternatives there are for Eriksson.

WHAT DO YOU THINK....?????~~~ Give us your coments by click below on "coments"

Sven-Goran Eriksson once said this......

"When Wayne was injured I thought 'S**t!' I think that even the Chelsea fans felt like that."Unexpected foul mouthedness from England boss Sven-Goran Eriksson.

What England Should Do Without Rooney.......?????

2006-05-02T04:14:00.000-07:00

On Saturday the one thing that all England fans didn’t want to happen typically happened,as Wayne Rooney ,broke a bone in his foot and is "now a major doubt for the World Cup finals.

"When the 20-year-old went down in obvious agony the concern was shared by Manchester United and Chelsea supports and for that matter all those will be cheering on the three lions this summer.

The fears were realised hours later when it was revealed the dreaded metatarsal had struck again,

but while he isn’t definitely out it has to be assumed that England will be without their best player.

England "have many good players" and some exceptional stars, but Rooney is something different.

He has the qualities that only a handful of players in the World have and so he simply can’t be replaced, especially at international level.

However, while our chances have been greatly reduced you can’t give up hope,

so what is plan B......????How can Sven-Goran Eriksson reduce the effect of Rooney’s loss.....? ???England don’t have many world class strikers and other than Rooney there is only one player I can imagine playing in a World Cup winning team,

That is Michael Owen. Assuming "IF" he is fit to play, which is far from certain,

then who should partner him, or play behind him..???

Peter Crouch...??? Err please god no!!!..He seems to be Eriksson’s third choice striker, which is scary.

I do not think the big man is good enough, not even close.

Darren Bent and Jermain Defoe? Decent strikers, but World Cup winners? No!

As a result....I think Eriksson needs to think of a different option altogether and I believe this is what he should now do:

The closest thing England have to Wayne Rooney is Joe Cole.

They are clearly very different players,but they have matchwinning qualities and the ability to do the exceptional.However, granted Cole is more of a winger,

but the way Chelsea play he has frequently taken the role of a support striker,which is now what England need.

So play Cole in an almost free-role behind Owen and then play a typical winger in his place on the left flank.

Stewart Downing of Middlesbrough is a traditional winger and while untested at this level could be an option for Sven,

As could Tottenham’s right-winger Aaron Lennon, who has looked more than comfortable on the left.His versatility could therefore be key and is a reason why he needs to be on the plane to Germany.

While inexperienced the two players mentioned would be better than playing a central midfielder out of position,

which has so often been the case.

This option will not make up for the loss of Rooney, but it should be England’s next best option.

Do you agree....?????Let us know what other alternatives there are for Eriksson.

WHAT DO YOU THINK....?????~~~

Give us your coments by click below on "coments"