Scholes: I stopped enjoying it

Paul Scholes has revealed he retired from international football because he 'stopped enjoying it'.

The Manchester United midfielder quit the England fold in 2004 and he has now admitted the reasons behind hanging up his international boots.

"I'd stopped enjoying it," Scholes told the News of the World.

"Maybe it was just because I wasn't playing very well.

"I like being at home and there was an awful lot of time away from my family."

Scholes, who has 66 England caps to his name, produced rejuvenated form last season as he helped guide United to the Premier League title.

However, the 32-year-old has ruled out an England comeback, despite rumours pushing for his return.

"Quitting international football has helped me quite a bit," Scholes added.

"It's always nice to have a 10-day break in international week after so many games.

"I feel better for deciding. I'd like to think I can play longer than if I was playing for England.

"I have been lucky to not have too many serious injuries so I hope I can carry on like that."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter Fraser - Created on 22 Jul 2007

Southgate has Yak faith

Middlesbrough boss Gareth Southgate remains confident that he will be able to call on Yakubu Aiyegbeni's services next season.

The Nigerian is understood to be unsettled on Teesside, but as yet no club have made a suitable approach to Boro.

The likes of Aston Villa, Manchester City, Portsmouth and West Ham are all thought to be keeping tabs on the situation - but Yakubu has started pre-season with Boro and Southgate wants it to stay that way.

"Yakubu is still part of my plans, absolutely," said Southgate.

"He has been with us in Austria and worked very hard with everybody else.

"I read the speculation the same as everybody else but we have had no contact from any other club.

"Whether people are trying to unsettle the player I don't know, but he seems very happy to be back with us having reported back from Nigeria and we are looking to him as being a big part of our team."

Meanwhile, former Hartlepool boss Martin Scott has been appointed Boro's new Under-18 coach.

"I’m really excited about the chance to work with Boro’s excellent young players," said Scott.

"The quality of players here is excellent and hopefully I can use my experience to help them."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Graeme Bailey - Created on 21 Jul 2007

Swede explains Wigan exit

Andreas Johansson admits the desire to play regularly prompted his departure from Wigan Athletic.

The Swedish midfielder has signed a three-year deal with AaB Aalborg in Denmark after a frustrating spell at The JJB Stadium.

During his two-and-a-half years with the club, Johansson was never able to establish himself in the team and started just four Premier League games last season.

Johansson concedes he enjoyed his stint in England, but needed to move on in order to play more often.

"I would have liked to have played more games and that's the only reason I want to move on," said Johansson in the Manchester Evening News.

"I've enjoyed my experience here and being involved in the incredible Wigan story."

Wigan boss Chris Hutchings had no complaints with Johansson's attitude and accepts it was 'frustrating' for AaB's new recruit.

Hutchings said: "Andreas worked tirelessly to get into the first team.

"Unfortunately he has never truly found a regular place, but not for the lack of trying.

"It's probably been frustrating for him, but he has never shown anything other than total professionalism.

"He's never complained, always had a smile on his face around the training ground, and I wish him all the best because he's been a pleasure to have around the place."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Mark Buckingham - Created on 21 Jul 2007

Fergie hopeful on Tevez

Sir Alex Ferguson remains hopeful Carlos Tevez will secure his summer move to Manchester United.

The Red Devils have been locked in talks for the Argentine star with Tevez set to undergo an Old Trafford medical later this week.

The deal has dragged on due to Tevez's contractual situation with United growing increasingly frustrated at the complexity of the transfer.

However, speaking after United's 2-2 draw with Urawa Red Diamonds, the Ferguson remains hopeful Tevez will begin the new season a Red.

"I hope Carlos Tevez arrives....things are bowling along," Ferguson told MUTV.

Second-half goals from Darren Fletcher and Cristiano Ronaldo turned around a one-goal deficit and Ferguson was not too down about drawing their Far East opener.

"We tired a bit in the second half," he added. "Understandable really with the long journey yesterday - 14, 15 hours travel and they found it difficult to sleep on the first night.

"They've applied themselves very well I think, and played some good football at times. We managed to give a few of them a good run-out tonight so we're happy with that."

Buck: No rush on contracts

Chelsea chairman Bruce Buck says the club are in no rush to sort out the futures of John Terry and Frank Lampard.

The England duo have yet to agree new deals at Stamford Bridge with contract talks stalling between all parties.

It has been feared that the highly-influential pair could leave the club if they do not get the right offers with a number of top clubs keeping tabs on the duo's situation.

Buck is remaining calm about the futures of the duo as they both have two years to run on their current contracts.

"I'm hopeful we will be able to sort all these contracts out but it's not something where there are negotiations every day," said Buck.

"I don't see there's a great rush but I do think they should be done properly.

"When there's approximately two years to go you want to think about re-signing the players, assuming you want to keep them because it preserves their transfer values.

"But I don't think you have to sign them when it's exactly two years.

"Sure we would like to get them done but there's no deadline and there doesn't need to be."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 17 Jul 2007

Mido set for Blues move

Tottenham Hotspur striker Mido claims he has agreed a transfer to Birmingham City.

The Egyptian has struggled to make an impact at White Hart Lane since securing a permanent move from Roma last summer.

He has been linked with Fulham and Portsmouth, although Mido recently denied he had settled on a switch to Craven Cottage.

The 24-year-old now seems set to link up with Premier League new boys Birmingham after revealing talks have taken place.

Mido expects to move to St Andrews on an initial loan deal, which will become permanent, if Blues survive in the top flight.

"Both sides have agreed terms," Mido told FilGoal.com.

"I will move on a one-year loan deal to Birmingham worth £1million and at the end they could buy my contract for £5million, if the club survives in the Premier League.

"Birmingham's offer is the best I had received, especially that I chose to stay in England."

Blues boss Steve Bruce is also interested in Spurs midfielder Hossam Ghaly, and Mido would be happy to see his fellow Egyptian join him in the Midlands.

He added: "I would love to have him (Ghaly) with me in the same team."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Mark Buckingham - Created on 17 Jul 2007

Jose hopes for same Drogba

Jose Mourinho expects Didier Drogba to maintain his form next season, despite the striker again raising doubts about his Chelsea future.

The Ivory Coast international finished last season as the top scorer in the Premier League and rattled in 33 goals in all competitions.

According to Mourinho, Drogba has been looking sharp in pre-season training in California and the Chelsea boss is looking forward to seeing the hit-man back in action.

"When we remember last season, he was top scorer in the country and one of the best players also in the Champions League," said Mourinho.

"When I see him in training he looks so sharp and with only one week of work. His quality looks even better than last season.

"I think we will have the same Didier as last season. That, for us, is fantastic. As a striker and a team player it's difficult to find better."

But Drogba has again suggested that he could leave Stamford Bridge, if a suitably lucrative offer lands on the table.

"For now things are still fuzzy, not clear," Drogba told the Sun. "Yet any good offer could tip the scale in another team's favour.

"I have heard there are offers from Porto, Barca and the rest. But I've not made up my mind.

"There is no season I don't have many offers. I would love to stay in England. I want to improve on last season's performance.

"But any strong economic pull can make me change my mind. If I feel I'm not being take care of, I quit."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Mark Buckingham - Created on 17 Jul 2007

Johansson leaves Wigan

Andreas Johansson has left Wigan Athletic to sign a three-year contract with AaB Aalborg.

The Swedish midfielder failed to have a significant impact at the JJB Stadium following his £450,000 move from Djurgardens in January 2005.

He started just four games in the Premier League last season and made 40 appearances in total during his time with The Latics.

New Wigan boss Chris Hutchings has allowed Johansson to return to Scandinavia after a deal was struck with AaB.

The Danish club are delighted with the transfer after admitting to a lengthy pursuit of the 29-year-old.

"We have been wanting to sign Andreas Johansson for two years now and all the time he has been our top priority when it came to reinforcing our attacking midfield," sporting director Lynge Jakobsen told the club's official website.

"We have signed a player of an extremely high standard, but we are still looking for more new players."

Johansson's arrival at AaB will compensate for the loss of Rasmus Wurtz after he signed for Danish champions FC Copenhagen.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Mark Buckingham - Created on 17 Jul 2007

New deal for Derby starlet

Teenage defender Lewin Nyatanga has agreed a new four-year contract with Derby County.

Nyatanga had just 12 months remaining on his previous deal, but is now tied to Pride Park until 2011.

The Wales international made 10 appearances for Derby last season, and also undertook loan spells at Sunderland and Barnsley.

Rams boss Billy Davies is delighted that the 18-year-old has pledged to stay with the Premier League new boys for the long term.

But, with Derby now playing in the top flight, Davies admits he is likely to send Nyatanga out on loan for the opening months of the campaign.

"We are delighted Lewin has signed because he is a young player with great potential, who is still learning the game," Davies told the Derby Evening Telegraph.

"He has made great strides for Wales on the international stage and has plenty of good experienced defenders in the Derby squad to learn from.

"I will sit down and look at the situation, but it may be that between now and the next transfer window we will look to give Lewin some more experience of first-team football by putting him out on loan and then bringing him back in."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Mark Buckingham - Created on 17 Jul 2007

Cole happy for life in the wings

Joe Cole believes plans to revert to the tried and tested will help Chelsea in their bid to regain the Premier League title.

Stamford Bridge manager Jose Mourinho has revealed he is to return to the 4-3-3 formation that served the former champions so well in their two Premier League title-winning seasons, prior to surrendering the crown to Manchester United.

Chelsea had favoured the formation, which saw two advanced wingers supporting a lone striker, in previous campaigns and Cole believes that it was only injury problems to vital players that enforced last season's strategic reshuffle to a diamond formation.

The 25-year-old missed the majority of the last campaign through medial knee ligament damage and a fractured foot, and he was joined on the long-term injured list by fellow wingers Arjen Robben and Shaun Wright-Phillips.

However, having recovered fitness along with Robben and Wright-Phillips, Cole is now optimistic ahead of the new season.

"I think the 4-3-3 formation is our best formation," Cole told the Daily Star.

"I feel it's much better than playing the diamond formation but our hands were tied last season.

"I think the manager would have played 4-3-3 last season, but with so many injuries he had fewer options."

Mourinho has also added Florent Malouda, in a £13.5million move from Lyon, to the Chelsea squad and Cole sees the French winger as a welcome arrival.

"This year the squad is stronger, we are quietly confident, and Malouda has looked good," said Cole.

"He got himself a goal in his first game against Club America, looks a quality player and has great pedigree.

"Maybe as we've got four, maybe five, wingers we've got strength in depth and options now.

"I think the squad is as strong now as at anytime that I've been at Chelsea."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter Fraser - Created on 17 Jul 2007

Domenech Hammers Faubert

France coach Raymond Domenech has blasted Julien Faubert's move to West Ham.

Faubert left Bordeaux for West Ham earlier this month after The Hammers beat Rangers to the midfielder's signature.

Domenech has expressed his disappointment at Faubert's decision to move to Upton Park, hinting the 23-year-old has damaged his international ambitions by switching to Alan Curbishley's side.

Faubert has made one appearance for France, but Domenech believes he could struggle to add to his tally after opting to join West Ham.

"I can't understand Faubert's decision. When my players phone me to tell me they are moving clubs, I tell them it is okay if they are joining one of the top four in England, Germany, Italy or Spain," Domenech is quoted as saying in The Sun.

"But it is unspeakably stupid to join a club outside of those few, apart from the financial point of view.

"It is a great pity when you are on the brink of the French national team.

"I struggle to understand why he has done it."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 17 Jul 2007

Crouch reveals Rafa talks

Liverpool star Peter Crouch has revealed he had talks with Rafa Benitez to receive assurances about his future.

Crouch's future at Liverpool has been the subject of conjecture for some time with a number of clubs being linked with a move for the giant forward.

The England international met with Benitez at the end of last season to discuss his long-term future and he was assured he was a part of the Spaniard's plans at Anfield, much to the relief of Crouch.

"A lot of the lads went to see the manager at the end of the season," Crouch told the Daily Express. "I was no different.

"There had been speculation and I was tentative about going in to see him.

"I did not want to leave, but if he has said I had to then I would.

"But he was sort of taken aback that I was even asking really and said 'Of course you're in my plans'.

"That was good to hear because it meant it wasn't even an issue for him."

Crouch is looking forward to the forthcoming season and is hoping to continue his steady improvement at Anfield.

"I thought I did well at the end of my first year, and it was then a case of, can he prove it over the course of a whole season?

"Hopefully, I did that last year and now I'd like to kick on to another level."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 17 Jul 2007

Allardyce cools Barzagli talk

Sam Allardyce admits Andrea Barzagli would not be a priority signing for Newcastle United and remains hopeful Obafemi Martins will stay at St James' Park.

Palermo defender Barzagli has been linked with a move to the Magpies as Allardyce looks to reinforce a leaky back-line.

But whilst acknowledging an interest in the Italy international, Allardyce concedes he initially needs players with Premier League experience.

"Overall this is a talented squad, but we must find some big, strong, experienced, quality defenders, preferably ones who have played in this country," said Allardyce.

"Barzagli is a very good player, but first and foremost I need one or two who know what English football's all about."

In addition to strengthening his squad, Allardyce is also aiming to ensure that none of his key players leave the club.

Martins has been linked with a move to Arsenal and reportedly wants to activate a clause in his contract allowing him to leave for a set sum.

But Allardyce has been assured the rumours are unfounded, although he concedes there is a chance the Nigerian striker could leave.

The Magpies manager added: "I have not spoken to Oba himself, only his representatives, who assure me there is nothing in it.

"But while the window is open, and when somebody has a get-out clause like he does, there is always a chance you might lose him.

"You hope that is not going to be the case, but you have to just keep your fingers crossed and hope it does not happen."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Mark Buckingham - Created on 17 Jul 2007

City trying for Petrov

Skysports.com understands that Manchester City are locked in talks over Martin Petrov.

The Bulgaria international has emerged as one of Sven Goran Eriksson's main targets.

The Swede is eyeing up to a dozen signings before the transfer window closes at the end of August.

It is believed that talks are now ongoing over a move for Petrov, but City are confident they can strike a deal with Atletico Madrid.

Petrov missed most of last season with knee ligament damage, but he made a successful comeback late in the campaign.

Petrov was linked with a move to Tottenham earlier in the summer and it seems he may be surplus to requirements at the Vicente Calderon, although Atletico will want to recoup the £6.5million they paid Wolfsburg for him in 2005.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Graeme Bailey - Created on 17 Jul 2007

Tevez wants quick solution

Carlos Tevez has called for a quick resolution to his proposed transfer to Manchester United.

The Premier League champions have confirmed talks are ongoing in an effort to sign Tevez from West Ham United.

The Argentinian is due to undergo a medical at Old Trafford later this week and United hope to wrap up a deal for the striker within the next seven days.

But Tevez's contractual situation remains a stumbling block, regarding who will be entitled to any transfer fee.

Tevez's representative Kia Joorabchian owns the player's economic rights, but the Premier League believe West Ham should be entitled to the bulk of any payment.

With the matter dragging on, the former Corinthians ace has added his voice to the desire for a speedy resolution.

"I want a solution very quickly on this subject," Tevez is quoted in the Daily Mirror.

"My desire is to play for Manchester United, but I also want a positive exit from West Ham because the club was good to me in the year when I played in England.

"I find the controversy about my transfer very strange, but I hope it will be resolved in the next few days."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Mark Buckingham - Created on 17 Jul 2007

Blues confirm Bridge blow

Chelsea have confirmed Wayne Bridge has undergone surgery on his troublesome hip injury.

Bridge looks certain to miss the start of the new season next month after being forced to go under the knife.

The England international had been struggling with the problem in training and after seeing a specialist it was decided to send him for surgery to correct the injury

Chelsea club doctor Alex Nieper confirmed Bridge could be sidelined for up to three months with the problem.

"Wayne Bridge has been struggling with a right hip problem for the last few weeks," Nieper told Chelsea TV.

"We decided while we were out here for him to see a world-renowned hip surgeon who agreed he did need hip surgery due to a cartilage defect.

"The operation was carried out this week and a piece of bone was removed which was the source of the problem. Wayne is not on crutches and should be back in two to three months."

With Ashley Cole also still recovering from injury, it means summer signing Tal Ben Haim is likely to deputise at left-back for the first few weeks of the season.

Meanwhile, there is better news on Michael Ballack who should be fit for the big kick-off.

Ballack has missed Chelsea's tour of America after undergoing an ankle operation.

The German is making good progress in his recovery and Nieper is confident he will be available for the opening weekend of the season.

"Michael is recovering from a second ankle operation and he went back to Germany to see the surgeon who is happy with the wound," added Nieper.

"Michael is back in London, getting his stitches removed and this week he is starting running again so fingers crossed, he will be set for the first Premier League match."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 17 Jul 2007

Black Cats land Richardson

Sunderland have snapped up Kieran Richardson from Manchester United.

A fee has not been disclosed for the versatile midfielder but it is believed to be in the region of £5.5million.

Manchester City were also linked with Richardson but Black Cats boss Roy Keane has won the race for his signature after striking a deal with his former club.

Richardson has signed a four-year deal and is relishing the prospect of playing at The Stadium of Light.

"It's an exciting move for me," the 22-year-old told Sunderland's official website.

"I know all about Roy Keane and I'm looking forward to playing for his team.

"Sunderland are a big club and it's a massive move for me."

Keane added: "I'm delighted that we've been able to bring Kieran to Sunderland.

"He's ready for a fresh challenge and hopefully Sunderland will provide that for him."

Richardson is Keane's fourth summer signing following Greg Halford, Russell Anderson and Michael Chopra.

He could make his debut in Wednesday's friendly against Darlington.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Lewis Rutledge - Created on 16 Jul 2007

Royals move for River ace

River Plate have revealed that Reading are keen on signing their central defender Danilo Gerlo.

Reading and River Plate are both currently in South Korea for the Peace Cup, and they faced each other last week.

Now River have revealed that Reading have made contact over Gerlo.

The 28-year-old impressed Reading's management during River's 1-0 win over The Royals and the South American giants have revealed that chairman John Madejski has made an approach.

"In the last weeks we had several offers for Gerlo from different European countries but none of them satisfied the player," revealed River board member Hernan Cordoba.

"We received offers from Austria, Israel, Switzerland and Greece but we didn't accept any of them because he said that for leaving River he had to receive a proposal from Spain, Italy or England.

"Now that Reading is interested in Gerlo, he has said that we could start negotiations because he is interested in playing for that team.

"He knows that the main player of the team is Kevin Doyle and he gets paid $1.5 million (£750,000) per-year so he is not going to get paid the same but he could be offered a contract that will surely be more than what he gets paid at River and in addition to that he would be playing in one of the leagues that he is interested in."

Fellow River Plate board member Jose Besteiro added that talks with Madejski had taken place.

"We will start conversations as the player would like to have the chance of playing in England because he would improve as a professional," Besteiro revealed.

"In River he hasn't a place for sure as there are other central defenders as Cristian Nasuti and Federico Lussenhof."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Patricio Figueroa - Created on 16 Jul 2007

Yeung has faith in Bruce

Birmingham's new majority shareholder Carson Yeung says he is a big fan of manager Steve Bruce.

The Hong Kong-based businessman has just taken a 29.9 per cent holding in the St Andrews club with the aim of eventually owning the whole of the club.

Yeung has now revealed that he has invested purely for the love of the sport, and that he wants Steve Bruce to take the club into Europe.

"Money for me is not important, I love soccer," Yeung told Sky Sports News.

Yeung insisted that he was looking forward to working with Bruce.

When asked whether Bruce would continue as manager, he stated: "Of course.

"I didn't know him but I saw him on the TV, but I have confidence in Steve, he is a good manager."

Yeung has big ideas for Birmingham and wants them to compete for a UEFA Champions League place.

"I want them to be an international team, maybe to be in the Champions League in the future," he said.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Graeme Bailey - Created on 16 Jul 2007

Harewood in Villa talks

Skysports.com can confirm Aston Villa are in talks with Marlon Harewood over a possible move to Villa Park.

Villa are hoping to beat Wigan to the striker's signature after both clubs agreed a fee with West Ham for Harewood.

Harewood has been allowed to leave Upton Park as he does not figure in Alan Curbishley's long-term plans.

Wigan held talks with Harewood over the weekend over a possible switch to the JJB Stadium, but Villa have made a last-ditch bid to lure him to the Midlands.

Villa boss Martin O'Neill is keen to bolster his attacking options and he is thought to be a big fan of Harewood.

Harewood's representative, Mick McGuire, confirmed Villa were in talks with the former Nottingham Forest man about a move.

"We are currently in talks with Aston Villa after they agreed a fee with West Ham," McGuire told skysports.com.

"If the talks go well he will then undergo a medical as normal.

"As we know Wigan have made a bid for Marlon and talked to him also.

"Now it is down to Marlon to make a decision on where he goes."

O'Neill confirmed Villa were given permission to talk to Harewood.

"We've been given the go-ahead to speak to the player and we'll take it from there," O'Neill told the club's official website.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 16 Jul 2007

Hill-Wood hopeful over Wenger

Arsenal chairman Peter Hill-Wood has revealed he has held talks with Arsene Wenger about his future.

Wenger's long-term future has been the subject of speculation all summer with the Frenchman yet to agree a new deal.

Arsenal are keen to tie down Wenger to a new long-term deal as he has just over 12 months to run on his current contract.

Wenger had been mentioned as a possible target for Real Madrid before Bernd Schuster was appointed at El Santiago Bernabeu.

Hill-Wood remains confident that Wenger will pledge his future to Arsenal by signing a new deal.

"We had a fairly lengthy conversation recently and that went very well," Hill-Wood told the club's official website.

"Hopefully, in the not too distant future we'll have something positive to say about it.

"I'm confident he'll stay. I very much hope he will. It's very important. He's done a marvellous job here. He looks pretty fit to me and I think he enjoys himself still. He's got a good job and I'm hoping he'll stay with us."

Hill-Wood is also optimistic that Arsenal can enjoy a successful campaign this coming season despite the loss of Thierry Henry.

"If you tune into the media, you would believe it's been a difficult summer but I think people have not really looked behind what's happened," added Hill-Wood.

"I'm very relaxed. I think we've got a very good squad and we've added a few players, most of them not names people have heard of before.

"But that's very much Arsene Wenger's style. People hadn't really heard of Thierry Henry, Patrick Vieira or Cesc Fabregas before they arrived.

"I believe we've never been in a better position. I think the team are absolutely first class.

"They are a young side but they're a year older now so they're going to be that much better."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 16 Jul 2007

United braced for Heinze exit

Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed Gabriel Heinze wants to leave Manchester United.

Heinze has been linked with a summer move after losing his regular left-back slot to Patrice Evra last season.

The Argentinian has been courted by Liverpool, Newcastle United, Real Madrid and Barcelona, although Ferguson has yet to receive a firm bid.

However, the Red Devils manager acknowledged that Heinze is hoping to secure a transfer before the start of the season.

"Gaby's agent has advised us that he wants to move on," said Ferguson.

"I am not too sure about that and we do not have a concrete offer from any particular club.

"But there is some momentum regarding the player's next move in terms of through his agent, even if nothing is close at this moment in time."

Heinze joined United from Paris Saint Germain in a £6.9million deal three years ago and has made 83 appearances for the club, having missed the bulk of the 2005/06 season through injury.

Meanwhile, Ferguson has also confirmed that Gary Neville and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer should be back in training prior to the opening game of the season.

Louis Saha, though, is likely to sit out the match with Reading on 12th August as he is not due to return to training until the middle of next month.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Mark Buckingham - Created on 16 Jul 2007

Giggs to fight for United place

Ryan Giggs has declared he is prepared to fight for his place at Manchester United in the face of increasing squad competition.

The champions have spent big during the summer as they look to bolster a side that is capable of defending their Premier League crown.

Sir Alex Ferguson has brought in Nani and Anderson, which will heighten competition for attacking midfield roles, but Giggs says he would not have been dropping his performance levels regardless of any new Old Trafford arrivals.

"The Premier League gets tougher every year and Manchester United cannot afford to stand still," said Giggs, who is currently 43 behind Sir Bobby Charlton's record of 759 United appearances.

"Whether the manager signed anyone or not, the challenge is still there.

"You have to perform to your best, otherwise you won't play. That goes for everyone.

"We are all hopeful of being in the team but the only way to achieve that is by doing well."

United won their title, the ninth in Giggs' time at the club, in eye-catching attacking style and the Welshman is hopeful that the new editions to the squad will see standards improve.

"The players we have signed in forward positions particularly are young and can make a contribution now and in the future," said Giggs.

"Last year, we showed what a great attacking team we were and now we have these additional options, hopefully we can improve even more."

United are currently on a four-match tour of Asia and, in the absence of the injured Gary Neville, Giggs is set to lead his side in the tour opener against Urawa Red Diamonds in Saitama on Tuesday.

Owen Hargreaves did not take a full part in United's first training session of the tour due to a minor injury and is a possible doubt for the Urawa fixture, while Ferguson has also confirmed that Nani is unlikely to feature.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter Fraser - Created on 16 Jul 2007

Yeung buys Blues stake

Carson Yeung has completed a deal to become Birmingham's biggest shareholder.

The Hong Kong businessman has purchased 29.9 per cent of the club's shares from directors David and Ralph Gold, David Sullivan, Karren Brady and Roger Bannister.

Yeung had paid a non-refundable deposit of £1.09m on 27th June in anticipation of the deal.

The deal, worth almost £15million, leaves the Golds and Sullivan with 23.22 per cent each, while Brady and Bannister also retain small holdings.

Yeung does not yet have full control but talks between his company Grandtop International Holdings Limited (GHIL) and the club are still ongoing.

He only has to increase his holding to 30 per cent to trigger a full takeover bid.

"I don't have any politics and I only want to buy for interest because I love football. I will not let the Birmingham fans down and disappoint them," Yeung told the Daily Mirror.

"The Premiership is the best league in the world and most countries focus on it - especially in China and Hong Kong.

"We have a great market in China and David Gold and David Sullivan have accepted our plan.

"As soon as we can I would like to own the whole club.

"We can buy some good players in January but maybe by then we might already be in a healthy position so we will wait and see."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Lewis Rutledge - Created on 16 Jul 2007

Sven working on signings

Manchester City boss Sven Goran Eriksson has revealed the club are working hard to bring in new players.

Eriksson has already been busy in the transfer market bringing in Rolando Bianchi and Gelson Fernandes since arriving at Eastlands.

The Swede accepts the squad needs strengthening if they are to enjoy a successful campaign for the forthcoming season.

"Our captain said it is an interesting time at the club with a new owner," Eriksson told Sky Sports News.

"The club have a target - they want to be stronger, they want to fight much higher up in the table and I am very pleased that I am here.

"Let's see what is happening in the next few weeks in the transfer market.

"Things will happen I am sure about that and I look forward to this and hopefully it will be very good. That's a target we have to work for."

Eriksson was remaining coy on his targets, with Atletico Madrid winger Martin Petrov the latest player to be linked with a move to City

"I think during the last few weeks we have been linked to 50 or 60 footballers around the world," added Eriksson. "It is good, it is interesting.

"I promise you we are working very hard within the club and myself, of course, to try to strengthen the squad.

"We need to do that, we have to do that."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 16 Jul 2007

Big Sam wants big stoppers

Newcastle manager Sam Allardyce admits bringing in some more defenders is a must before the start of the new season.

Defending has been the Achilles heel of The Magpies for some time and despite the additions of David Rozehnal and Geremi, Allardyce is still not content.

The former Bolton boss wants sign a couple of powerful stoppers capable of competing in the Premier League every week.

"What we need now particularly is defenders and quality defenders at that," Allardyce said on Sky Sports News. "That is my only key concern at the moment.

"The players that are here are progressing nicely but the concern is that we must find some big, strong, experienced, good defenders."

Allardyce has revealed he has missed out on a number of his targets already this summer, with some joining Premier League rivals.

Nevertheless, he is confident of being able to strengthen his Newcastle squad prior to 11th August.

"Many targets are coming and going now and more and more people are actively moving into the transfer market," Allardyce added.

"Some of our targets have gone in this country already but there will be plenty more coming up between now and August."

Potential targets are reportedly Italian international duo Fabio Cannavaro and Andrea Barzagli, but Allardyce ruled out any 'galactico' type signings.

"We are all hoping we can move in the transfer market and bring some good players to the football club.

"I am not talking about the 'galactico' stars that are being mentioned - that is just a nonsense at the moment.

"We need three or four solid, very, very good defenders from wherever it may be, and we will be a force this year.

"But we need to get them first. If he wants to give me a little gift after with a galactico, I won't say no."

Meanwhile, Joey Barton aims to be playing regular European football with Newcastle in the not too distant future in order to boost his England hopes.

"First and foremost, it is vitally important to do well for Newcastle United," the midfielder told the club's official website.

"If England honours follow, I will be very honoured. As a professional, you always strive to play at the highest level.

"But first and foremost, it is more about playing in Europe every season with Newcastle."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Andrew Scurr - Created on 16 Jul 2007

Torres set for Bremen bow

Fernando Torres is in line to make his Liverpool debut on Tuesday against Werder Bremen.

Liverpool face Bremen in their third pre-season friendly of the summer at the Swiss training camp.

Torres missed Saturday's win at Crewe with a slight ankle injury, but Reds boss Rafa Benitez is ready to give the club's record signing his much anticipated bow against Bremen.

"We had to wait for Fernando because he started training after the other players," said Benitez.

"We also needed to check his ankle but I think he'll be okay for our next game."

Benitez, meanwhile, praised Andrei Voronin following his first appearance for the club in the 3-0 victory at Crewe.

"We know that Voronin is going to be another option for us," added Benitez.

"He has good game intelligence, he plays well between the lines and he has a lot of quality."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 16 Jul 2007

Bruce admits Ghaly interest

Steve Bruce has confirmed he has enquired about bringing Hossam Ghaly to Birmingham City.

The midfielder has been tipped to leave Tottenham Hotspur over the summer after failing to establish himself as a regular in Martin Jol's first team.

He also ended last season on a low note after throwing his shirt to the ground after being substituted in the game with Blackburn Rovers.

Ghaly had previously been hoping to stay at White Hart Lane, but reports now suggest he will be allowed to leave by Jol.

St Andrews could be his next port of call after Birmingham boss Bruce admitted he is interested in the Egypt international.

"He's one we have enquired about," Bruce told the Birmingham Mail.

"He came to my attention a year ago when we had Tottenham in a pre-season friendly in the rain at St Andrews.

"It was that game when Berbatov played and scored a stunning goal.

"But my eye was caught by Ghaly and we've had him monitored since.

"As I said, we've made an enquiry, but it hasn't gone further - yet."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Mark Buckingham - Created on 16 Jul 2007

Everton to consult fans

Everton have announced they are to consult their fans over a proposed move to a new stadium in Kirkby.

The club have been considering a move away from their Goodison Park home for about a year and they are now to conduct a ballot to allow fans to show their opinion.

"We are confident that a very high percentage of those who have historically supported the club will have the right to have their voices heard," Everton chief executive Keith Wyness told the club's official website.

"We believe that the final number of supporters who will be eligible will be in excess of 33,000.

"That's a figure which roughly corresponds with the number of Evertonians present for our Premier League fixtures at Goodison."

Everton have played at Goodison for more than 100 years but they are aware that if they are to challenge the superior capacity and revenue of the Premier League big guns of Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal and local rivals Liverpool, who are set to leave Anfield for a new home in 2009, they will have to upgrade their stadium.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter Fraser - Created on 16 Jul 2007

Geovanni wants Pompey move

Brazilian midfielder Geovanni is keen make a permanent move to Portsmouth, according to the player's agent.

Geovanni, 27, is a free agent and is currently on a two-week training period at Fratton Park where he is hoping to impress manager Harry Redknapp.

The attacking midfielder starred in a striking role in Pompey's 2-0 friendly win over Yeovil on Saturday, where he set up Tresor Lomana Lua Lua for the first and scored the second.

On the back of that performance, his agent, Regi Pereira, has revealed that Geovanni is desperate to stay at the club.

"Geovanni wants to play in England and he wants to stay with Harry at this football club," Pereira told The Portsmouth News.

"He is here for two weeks, just for adaptation, it's not a trial.

"If he likes it and Harry likes him then he will sign, he wants a change and likes England.

"Geovanni is a quality player and I hope Portsmouth sign him.

"He would be very interested and we will have to see what the outcome is."

Geovanni has previously played for Barcelona, who he joined from Brazilian outfit Cruzeiro in a £13.28million move after impressing in the 2000 Olympic Games.

More recently Geovanni, who was named in the Brazilian squad for the 2001 Copa America, has played for Benfica where he is perhaps best remembered for his goal in the 2-1 win over Manchester United in the 2006 UEFA Champions League group stages.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter Fraser - Created on 16 Jul 2007

Kamara: I will score goals

Diomansy Kamara is convinced he can score 'a lot of goals' in the Premier League with Fulham.

Lawrie Sanchez was persuaded to part with £6million to take the Senegal forward to Craven Cottage from West Brom.

The Fulham boss has taken a gamble on Kamara given the striker's record in his previous seasons in the top flight.

In one campaign at Portsmouth, followed by his debut season with West Brom, Kamara mustered just five goals in 51 Premier League appearances.

But the 26-year-old is not concerned by those statistics and is confident he can be a regular scorer over the coming months.

"I'm so happy to sign for Fulham, it is a very good team," Kamara told Sky Sports News.

"Before I came here I spoke with the coach and I like his project. I am happy to stay in England and play in the Premiership again.

"The Championship is difficult because there are a lot of games and it is very athletic, but in the Premiership they play more football and there is more space, so I'm happy to play in the Premiership.

"I want to score a lot of goals. When I came from Italy I was not fit to play in England, now I understand football in England.

"This year I hope to score a lot of goals in the Premiership."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Mark Buckingham - Created on 16 Jul 2007

Maloney eyes long Villa stay

Shaun Maloney has dismissed stories linking him with a return to former club Celtic.

Reports over the weekend suggested Maloney was less than happy at Aston Villa and was thinking of a move back to Glasgow.

Maloney left Celtic in the January transfer window to set out on a new challenge with Villa, and he is adamant his feelings have not changed.

He told Villa's official website: "I didn't even see the story myself. Stilian Petrov told me about it, but there's nothing in it.

"I said when I came here that I was excited by the challenge of playing in the Premier League and that's still the case."

Maloney scored just one goal for Villa last term but is confident he can have a much more successful campaign.

"It wasn't easy coming in midway through the season - ask any player, that's never ideal," he acknowledged.

"But I'm here now for pre-season and looking forward to the new season.

"There's nothing I can do about these stories. I'm just concentrating on getting ready for the new season with Villa."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Lewis Rutledge - Created on 16 Jul 2007

Ben Haim set to Bridge gap

Jose Mourinho is ready to put his trust in Tal Ben Haim at left-back with Wayne Bridge set to miss the start of the season and Ashley Cole doubtful.

Bridge admitted last week he was still being troubled by the injury he picked up whilst on international duty with England earlier in the summer.

He was thought to be feeling discomfort in his hip but, according to reports, scans showed the problem to be a mysterious pelvis injury.

Mourinho admits Bridge will be sidelined for several more weeks, while he also has concerns over Cole's fitness.

Cole has not yet returned to training after undergoing ankle surgery at the end of last season, and it is likely to be some time before he is ready for a competitive match.

With the start of the Premier League season less than a month away Mourinho is already making plans to fill the left-back position.

Versatile defender Ben Haim, normally a centre-back, is poised to play on the left during Chelsea's pre-season tour of America and Mourinho insists he is a reliable alternative.

"Without Bridge and Cole for a few more weeks, I think Tal is my first option for left-back," confirmed Mourinho.

"I will play him in one of these matches at left-back because I want to give him some routine, but I know he's a player I can trust."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Lewis Rutledge - Created on 16 Jul 2007

Bruce's Konchesky lament

Steve Bruce admits it was a 'big disappointment' to miss out on Fulham new boy Paul Konchesky.

The full-back signed for Fulham from West Ham Untied prior to the weekend, having also been wanted by Birmingham City.

Bruce had spent several weeks trying to arrange a deal for Konchesky, but accepts he will now have to move on to other targets.

"It was a big disappointment for me," Bruce told the Birmingham Mail.

"He was someone I had been trailing and courting for weeks. That's the way it is. I think it has shocked all of us the way the prices have gone.

"But if we are going to compete, we have to bite the bullet and get on with it. That's what the market's like.

"I really liked the boy. I think he's the closest thing I've seen to Martin Grainger and we all know what type he was and what he did for this club.

"Konchesky would have been a good acquisition for us. But we've lost out, and now we have to go back down to the next one and start the process all over again."

Meanwhile, Konchesky is targeting a spot in the top half of the Premier League table after being presented as a Fulham player.

He told Sky Sports News: "I spoke to the manager and I've seen the signings he's brought in, and would like to bring in.

"Fulham have got a great chance this year. We want to be in the top 10 and with the players brought in I think we're capable."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Mark Buckingham - Created on 16 Jul 2007

Reds to submit stadium plans

Liverpool will submit the revised plans for their proposed £280million stadium to the city council before the end of the month.

The Anfield club's American owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks want to build a 60,000-seater ground that could be extended to a capacity of 80,000.

If the club gain planning permission, building work on the site at Stanley Park could commence before the end of the year and be completed by 2009.

"We know pretty much now what the final plans are. They will be unveiled in the coming weeks," the club's chief executive Rick Parry told Reuters.

"I know people will be very excited with what they are, I have certainly been excited by them.

"Whether we build an extension is partly a business decision depending on what the demand will be.

"It is also driven by planning constraints with what we can achieve at the outset.

"Suffice to say, the whole idea is building a stadium that has expansion capacity and more room than the previous one.

"The owners were concerned that if we were really going to be challenging long term, just in excess of 60,000 was too small.

"They have never made any secret that their plan was to get something significantly bigger."

Parry stressed that the cost of the stadium would not become a debt burden on the club.

"At the end of the day, it's not about building monuments, it's about making an investment that will generate a return that will allow us to invest in the team," he added.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Steve Bramley - Created on 16 Jul 2007

Sanchez will let Franck leave

Lawrie Sanchez says Fulham have received no offers for want-away defender Franck Queudrue.

Newcastle manager Sam Allardyce is reportedly interested in the Frenchman, who has informed The Cottagers that he wants to leave the club.

Sanchez will not keep players against their wish, but insists Queudrue will only depart if clubs match Fulham's valuation.

"We've had no official contact from any club interested in Franck at this moment in time," he said at a press conference shown on Sky Sports News.

"It's well documented he'd like to move on. If players want to move on then I'm not going to stand in their way.

"But he did cost us £3million this time last year and we would like our money back."

Sanchez has been busy in the transfer market this summer, already bringing in six new faces while targeting a couple more before the window closes.

Northern Ireland striker David Healy has joined from Leeds and Sanchez is confident in his ability to score goals at Premier League level.

"I don't think it's a risk. The price was quite good and David will score goals," he said. "You're not leading goalscorer in the European Championship if you're not top quality.

"I don't question his finishing ability, given chances to finish in the Premier League he will take those chances."

Jimmy Bullard is almost like a new signing for Fulham, having missed the vast majority of last season because of a serious knee injury.

Sanchez will not have the former Wigan midfielder fit for the start of the season, but hopes to have him available early on in the new campaign.

"Jimmy's making good progress but we're looking at September or October time before we consider playing him," Sanchez continued.

"We're not going to rush him and break him down because he does need to make sure that he is ready to play."

Meanwhile, Sanchez has set his sights on taking Fulham into Europe in the not too distant future and will explore all possible routes into the Uefa Cup.

He added: "If we play like how I would like us to play and do the things that can get us success then there are avenues beyond the league that open to Europe.

"I would like in my time here to get Fulham into Europe. European football is the target that I will be setting the players."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Andrew Scurr - Created on 16 Jul 2007

Given happy at Magpies

Shay Given has revealed he would be happy to spend the rest of his career at Newcastle.

The Republic of Ireland international is in his tenth year at St James' Park after arriving from Blackburn.

Given has established himself as one of the best keepers in England during his time at the club with a number of consistent performances on Tyneside.

The 31-year-old still has four years to run on his current contract and he says he would be happy to extend it to keep him at St James' Park.

"I have got four years left on my contract and I will definitely be here for them - and hopefully a few more beyond that," Given told the club's official website.

"But we will have to see how my body holds up before I start thinking about another 10.

"When I signed, I knew I was coming to a huge football club.

"It's a special place to play football, what with the fans and the stadium, and hopefully we will be able to win something while I'm here because you can just imagine what the place would be like."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 16 Jul 2007

Maloney rumours rubbished

Shaun Maloney's agent has rubbished reports suggesting the Aston Villa ace could be on his way back to Celtic.

Reports over the weekend suggested Maloney had failed to settle at Villa Park and was considering a move back to Parkhead.

Celtic boss Gordon Strachan refused to rule out a move for Maloney after being asked about the rumours.

"It would be unfair of me to talk about that - he's signed to another club," said Strachan.

However, Maloney's representative John Halliwell has rubbished the rumours and says the forward is focusing on the new season with Villa.

"All this talk about Shaun being unhappy is news to me but there's nothing in it," Halliwell told the Scottish Sun.

"The last conversation I had with Celtic was in January.

"There is always talk about Shaun because he is a talented player but this is just completely made up.

"He's been working so hard to get fit because he's so desperate to make an impact in the Premiership.

"He's away to the USA this Wednesday with Aston Villa.

"It's a big season for him and he's just excited to now get his first full season in the Premiership underway."

Meanwhile, Celtic defender Darren O'Dea will miss the club's trip to the USA after aggravating an old hamstring injury.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 16 Jul 2007

Real bid for Blues ace

Real Madrid have tabled a bid for Chelsea winger Arjen Robben, according to the player's agent.

The Spanish giants have been linked all summer with the Holland international and have now made a reported £13.5million offer.

However, whether Real get their man is another story as just last weekend manager Jose Mourinho stated he thought Robben would be staying.

Chelsea have little need to raise funds although the summer capture of Florent Malouda from Lyon could well hinder Robben's starting chances.

Robben's agent and father Hans has now confirmed Real have bid for his son and that the former PSV Eindhoven ace is interested in a move to El Santiago Bernabeu.

"I know Real have made a bid to Chelsea for my son," he told the Sun.

"When you are talking about Real Madrid, it has to be said that it's one of the best clubs in the world.

"Who wouldn't want to play for Real Madrid? My son wants to play at clubs that can win the Champions League and Real Madrid are one of the them."

Source : www.skysports.com
By James Pearson - Created on 16 Jul 2007

Southgate targets new blood

Gareth Southgate is looking to strengthen his squad further this summer, but admits he may have to be patient.

Jeremie Aliadiere and Tuncay Sanli have already arrived at Middlesbrough since the end of last season, while Jonathan Woodgate has also completed a permanent move to The Riverside.

Southgate still wants his squad to have greater strength in depth, but concedes there is a possibility he may have to start the season with the squad as it is now.

"There is (a chance), and the squad is small, but I'm happy with the quality of the first team," he told the Evening Gazette.

"But at the moment our back-up is very inexperienced, and that's why we're hoping to strengthen the squad.

"We've got young players who played last year, but the more quality we can bring in, the better chance we have of finishing higher up the league."

Southgate is confident there are exciting times ahead at Boro but knows he will have to spend shrewdly.

"We're not awash with funds and we've got to make sure we get the right deals and the right players to improve us," he explained.

"We would still like to add a couple of players to the squad, but I'm delighted with what's gone on out here, both with the new players that have come in and the other lads.

"Yes, it's a team with possibly less experience than last season, but the upside of that is being able to work at a higher pace."

Boro lost 3-0 to Schalke in their first pre-season friendly on Saturday but Southgate was happy with the run-out.

He said: "I knew they were a couple of weeks ahead of us, they have a German Cup game next week, so it wasn't the first game we would ideally have liked but it was a good workout for us."

Boro are expected to field a stronger side in their next game against Hertha Berlin on Tuesday, with Aliadiere and Stewart Downing both set to feature.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Lewis Rutledge - Created on 16 Jul 2007

Owen: I will score goals

Michael Owen admits he is desperate to put his injury nightmares behind him and to prove the critics wrong.

Injury has restricted the Newcastle striker to only 14 first-team appearances since his £17million move from Real Madrid in 2005 and some have suggested he has become injury prone.

Owen missed the majority of last season after damaging his anterior cruciate knee ligament while on England duty in the 2006 World Cup.

However, having rediscovered his fitness, the 27-year-old is now more focused than ever to show he still has the top-level goalscoring touch.

"It's never been a goal of mine before to stay fit, but I suppose after these last two years, I want to play a full season," Owen told Newcastle's official website.

"I don't consider myself injury prone. I have played a lot of games throughout my career for club and country and it's frustrating that my injuries have happened at Newcastle.

"I'm definitely going into this season as strong as I have been for a long, long time and I don't envisage any problems.

"If I'm fit, everyone knows I will score goals. I have done that all my life."

Owen has scored seven goals in 13 starts for Newcastle and he found the back of the net for the first time in a year with his strike in England's 3-0 European Championship qualifier victory over Estonia in June.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter Fraser - Created on 16 Jul 2007

Quartet delight at Fulham move

Aaron Hughes, Steven Davis, David Healy and Chris Baird have all expressed their delight at joining Lawrie Sanchez's Fulham revolution.

Hughes and Davis have both joined from Premier League rivals Aston Villa while Healy and Baird have arrived from Leeds and Southampton respectively.

Former Newcastle defender Hughes expressed his regret to leave Villa, although he is now looking to a fresh challenge in West London.

"It's a fresh start, a chance to try something new so I'm really looking forward to it," Hughes told Sky Sports News.

"I was disappointed that maybe things didn't work out a little better at Villa. But that's football and that's the way.

"I've been given a chance here to start fresh and have a new go at something so I'm really looking forward to it."

Davis, like Hughes, was sad to leave Villa, but, after finding himself down Martin O'Neill's first-team pecking order, felt the time was right to move on.

"It was a tough decision, but I found myself out of the team and I felt I had to make the move to get first-team football," explained Davis.

"There are exciting times down here so I was glad to join. It's obviously good for me coming down and knowing some of the lads."

Healy has only just linked up with Fulham following the summer saga at Leeds and is looking forward to impressing in England's top flight.

The one-time Manchester United trainee brings an impressive scoring record for Northern Ireland to Craven Cottage, but the jury is out on his Premier League credentials.

"I'm looking forward to it," said the ex-Leeds man. "I'm looking forward to the challenge.

"It's been well documented that Lawrie wanted to bring me here, so at long last I'm here.

"It was sad to leave Leeds, but it's a new challenge."

Baird arrives as Southampton's Player of the Year and the defender has revealed the lure of Sanchez played a big part in rejecting Sunderland for Fulham.

The 25-year-old is enjoying his time with the Londoners and would be happy to play anywhere for Sanchez as long as he gets on the pitch.

Baird stated: "Obviously Lawrie and that was a big thing for us. I'm really enjoying it so far. I'll play anywhere if I get the chance to play.

"The Premier League is better quality and better quality players so it's going to be tough for us, but a test I'm really looking forward to."

Source : www.skysports.com
By James Pearson - Created on 16 Jul 2007

Keane's warning for sceptics

Roy Keane insists past allegiances will not deter him from bringing new players to Sunderland.

The £5million signing of Michael Chopra has met with a mixed reaction on Wearside due to the striker having started his career at Newcastle United.

But Keane is not concerned about where players are coming from, providing they will be a positive influence at the Stadium of Light.

"I don't care if they are from Newcastle or New Zealand. If I think they can come in and do a good job for the club, I will sign them," Keane told the club's official website.

"Michael's not afraid of a challenge. He went on loan to Forest and Barnsley and scored goals.

"It can't have been an easy decision to move to Cardiff, but he took a chance and it worked out.

"I'm delighted Michael's here. As soon as I spoke to him, he was enthusiastic about coming to this football club.

"Michael had a very good season last year, he's a natural goalscorer and he will be a good addition to our squad."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Mark Buckingham - Created on 16 Jul 2007

Alonso completes Bolton move

Bolton have sealed the season-long loan signing of Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Alonso.

Alonso joins Sammy Lee's side after impressing while on trial during their pre-season training camp in Austria.

The 27-year-old will link up with The Trotters once he receives international clearance.

Alonso, whose brother is Liverpool midfielder Xabi, was keen to ply his trade in the Premier League next season.

Bolton will have the option to make the Spaniard's move to The Reebok Stadium permanent in a year's time.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Andrew Scurr - Created on 16 Jul 2007

Sven vows to spend wisely

Sven Goran Eriksson has insisted he will only bring 'the right players' to Manchester City.

Thaksin Shinawatra has given the Swede a transfer war chest believed to be around £50million to help turn around the club's fortunes.

Eriksson has already signed Rolando Bianchi from Reggina for £8.8million and Gelson Fernandes from Sion for £3.8million.

Several more new arrivals are expected before the start of the season but Eriksson admits it is not always easy to secure top players.

He is determined not to spend money rashly but is also looking to build for the future and has urged fans to be patient.

"It is not like going to the supermarket and picking a player off the shelf," he told the Manchester Evening News.

"We are making enquiries all the time about players but it is sometimes a slow process with agents, managers and chief executives all involved in the process.

"It depends what kind of players we can get as to how many we bring in, but we will not spend for the sake of it.

"They have to be the right players for Manchester City."

Bianchi, who scored 18 goals in Serie A last season, could make his City debut in the friendly against Orgryte on Wednesday.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Lewis Rutledge - Created on 16 Jul 2007

Fergie confirms Park blow

Sir Alex Ferguson admits Manchester United could be without Park Ji-sung until 2008.

The South Korean is recovering from a knee operation and the injury was due to be reassessed in August.

But, speaking in Japan for the first leg of United's pre-season tour to Asia, Ferguson offered a bleak outlook for Ji-sung's return.

The Red Devils boss conceded that the midfielder will miss the opening months of the new season and lamented the setback for the former PSV Eindhoven ace.

"He will not be available until December or January," said Ferguson.

"It is very disappointing news, but hopefully we have the squad to cover injuries this year."

Ji-sung suffered the injury in the 4-1 victory over Blackburn Rovers at the end of March and it was not initially believed to be a serious problem.

He eventually underwent surgery in America, having missed the title run-in and, subsequently, the FA Cup final and South Korea's Asian Cup campaign.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Mark Buckingham - Created on 16 Jul 2007

Ferdinand focused for Far East

Rio Ferdinand believes a successful pre-season tour of the Far East will see Manchester United start the Premier League on form.

United arrived in Japan on Monday morning to kick off a rigorous four-match tour and Ferdinand believes the intense humidity of playing conditions in Asia will provide excellent conditioning as the champions look to defend their Premier League crown.

"The weather sometimes makes it difficult on these trips but it will stand us in good stead for when we come back and start the season," said Ferdinand.

"It is the pre-season programme that carries you through the whole campaign, especially the demanding periods like Christmas.

"Fingers crossed we get it right, we have every confidence in the staff at the club.

"They have never got it wrong before so I am sure they won't this year."

United's tour will take in Seoul, Macau and Guangzhou and kicks off against Urawa Red Diamonds on Tuesday where summer signings Owen Hargreaves and Nani are expected to feature.

Alan Smith has also made the trip, despite increasing rumours that he is heading for the Old Trafford exit, and defender Jonny Evans, who impressed while on loan at Sunderland last season, is expected to be given an opportunity.

Gary Neville and Ben Foster have all remained in England due to injury, while Gerard Pique, who did not finish his season on loan with Real Zaragoza until the end of June, has also been excused.

Gabriel Heinze, who is being increasingly linked with a move away from United, will miss the trip because he only finished Copa America duty with Argentina on Sunday.

Brazilian midfielder Anderson and Chinese forward Dong Fangzhou are also missing because they have been in Copa America and Asian Cup action respectively.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter Fraser - Created on 16 Jul 2007

Jose drops Ballack hint

Jose Mourinho has hinted Michael Ballack will not be an automatic selection for Chelsea this season.

The Germany international star was expected to light up the Premier League in his debut campaign following a free transfer switch from Bayern Munich.

However, the midfield schemer struggled to make an impact and Mourinho has conceded the 30-year-old found it hard to adapt to English football.

With competition fierce for midfield roles, the Portuguese tactician has challenged Ballack to show his true form and fight for his place.

"What I can say is that he's a player I like," said Mourinho. "I like him very much, but life is not easy.

"Like for the other people, life is not easy. We have a lot of good players.

"I'm not the kind of coach that gives places to people just because they are faces or names.

"Everybody has to fight for his place but I think they have a difficult task because the squad is really good."

Source : www.skysports.com
By James Pearson - Created on 16 Jul 2007

Kuyt eyes fast start

Dirk Kuyt wants Liverpool to kick off the new season like they mean business in a bid to challenge for the title.

The Reds won three and lost three of their opening nine league outings last term, leaving them adrift of Manchester United and Chelsea.

Kuyt is keen to avoid a repeat this time around and with the likes of Fernando Torres, Ryan Babel and Yossi Benayoun on board, the striker knows the quality is there to impress.

"You can't win the title in the first few weeks of the season, but you can certainly lose it," said the former Feyenoord ace.

"We had a slow start last season but this time it's important we show we can do it from the start.

"It was a good thing to bring a few new players in. We certainly have to play much better than last year.

"I'm not worried about my place. It's important to get players to make the team better."

Source : www.skysports.com
By James Pearson - Created on 16 Jul 2007

Drogba delight at Malouda

Didier Drogba has praised his new team-mate Florent Malouda after watching the winger star on his Chelsea debut.

Malouda, who recently arrived at Stamford Bridge following a £13.5million summer move from Lyon, produced a man-of-the-match display and scored Chelsea's first goal in Saturday's 2-1 friendly win over Club America.

However, Drogba was not surprised with the performance of Malouda, who also created John Terry's 83rd minute winner, having already played with the 27-year-old during their time together at Guingamp.

"Everybody knows Malouda's quality and I don't have to speak about it," Drogba told The Sun.

"I think you saw his quality out there, he can keep the ball and control the pace of the game.

"We have a good understanding and our families are very close."

The Ivory Coast striker also believes Malouda's arrival at Chelsea will mean he, and the Frenchman, are going to have to continue to find top form to maintain a berth in the Blues' first team, as competition for starting places increases.

Drogba, though, is confident he can repeat last season's 32-goal personal form.

"I have to be good to play and Florent has to be good to play as well because the competition here is so intense," Drogba said.

"But, if I think having the same season again is impossible it would mean I was lucky, and I'm not thinking that.

"I think I created the chances to be good last year and my secret is to work.

"I have to stay focused on the game, forget about last season and try to do better, I have to be happy and win more trophies."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter Fraser - Created on 16 Jul 2007

Foxes follow Fowler

Leicester City chairman Milan Mandaric has confirmed Robbie Fowler as the club's top target.

Fowler has held talks with Sydney FC about a possible move to Australia, and Cardiff City are also reportedly interested in the Liverpool legend, but Mandaric admits a desire to bring the 32-year-old to The Walkers Stadium.

The Foxes, who have already brought in Carl Cort and are reportedly close to a £2million agreement for Birmingham forward DJ Campbell, are hoping to continue to bolster their attack as they look to fire their way back to the Premier League.

"We are still looking for more firepower up front and Fowler could give us that," Mandaric told the Leicester Mercury.

"I have been talking with his representatives and we know there is competition for him but it is not always about money.

"I think we would be the right club for someone who is really looking for the right challenge.

"We will see what happens through the pre-season and into August, but I said this would be a major rebuilding job for the club and that is still the case."

Reports in Wales, meanwhile, claim Fowler has verbally agreed to join Cardiff and will settle on personal terms upon his return from Australia.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter Fraser - Created on 16 Jul 2007

Yeung confirms Blues intention

Hong Kong businessman Carson Yeung has confirmed he plans to own 100 per cent of Birmingham City.

Yeung is set to become the club's single biggest shareholder on Monday when he concludes a deal for 29.9 per cent of the Premier League outfit.

Should Yeung go on to acquire a further 30 per cent of the club then he would be in pole position to bid for control of the Midlands side.

Yeung has confirmed he has big plans for the newly-promoted club and they include splashing the cash and keeping manager Steve Bruce.

"I don't have any politics and I only want to buy for interest because I love football," he told the Daily Mirror.

"I will not let the Birmingham fans down. I like the city of Birmingham and have a lot of good plans for the future.

"David Gold and David Sullivan (pictured) have accepted our plan. As soon as we can I would like to own the whole club.

"We can buy some good players in January but maybe by then we might already be in a healthy position so we will wait and see.

"We can spend a lot of money in the right way but first I want to meet Steve Bruce as soon as possible.

"I have a lot of confidence in Steve Bruce, he is a very straight man and we could have a good relationship."

Source : www.skysports.com
By James Pearson - Created on 16 Jul 2007

Stubbs seeking signings

Everton's veteran defender Alan Stubbs feels The Toffees need to bolster their squad if they are to impress in Europe.

David Moyes has made just two acquisitions this summer in the shape of Sheffield United's Phil Jagielka and Swindon Town youngster Lukas Jutkiewicz.

Stubbs feels Moyes will be happy with his squad, although should the chance arise to bolster then he will look to make further additions.

"I'm sure the manager is quite happy with the squad at the minute, but in an ideal world I think he would like to bring in three or four more new players," he stated.

"Whether he is going to be allowed to do that, I just don't know.

"That would be the ideal scenario for us, especially as we are going to be playing in Europe.

"It is there for us to try and push on."

Source : www.skysports.com
By James Pearson - Created on 16 Jul 2007

Backe to 'organise' City

New first-team coach Hans Backe has vowed to bring 'structure and organisation' to Manchester City.

Backe's appointment as assistant to Sven Goran Eriksson was confirmed on Saturday and he was alongside his fellow Swede in the dug-out for the 3-1 friendly win over Doncaster Rovers.

The former FC Copenhagen coach, who won three league titles in Denmark, had announced his retirement in May but explained that he could not resist the opportunity of working in England.

"I accepted immediately," Backe told Fotbollskanalen.se of his offer to work with Eriksson at Eastlands.

"It's a fantastic opportunity to come to England and get a taste of the Premier League, which I feel is the best league in the world.

"I hope to add some structure and organisation to the side."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Andy Clarke - Created on 15 Jul 2007

Wenger wanted Henry stay

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has confirmed he did not want star striker Thierry Henry to leave for Barcelona this summer.

The France international joined the Spanish giants last month following a successful eight-year spell with The Gunners.

Arsenal fans were disappointed to see their idol depart and Wenger has confirmed is was ultimately the French ace who decided to end his tenure in England.

Wenger believes Henry may have reached a point where he needs to win trophies and may not have been prepared to wait for Arsenal's youngsters to mature.

"Of course you don't want to lose a world-class player without having thought about it," he told the News of the World. "At the end of the day, it was his decision.

"He wanted to leave. You don't make a decision like that in a minute. You check to see if the player is really completely sure of what he wants to do.

"But Thierry Henry's decision is down to him. It's not my decision. He wanted to make the move.

"He's nearly 30. Maybe he didn't have the patience anymore to let the young team develop. You can understand that. It was a tough decision."

Meanwhile, Wenger believes Freddie Ljungberg will be an Arsenal player next season after failing to secure a summer move away from the Emirates.

The experienced Gunners boss is confident that following a failed Fiorentina switch Ljungberg will be with the North Londoners come August.

"At the moment Freddie stays," he continued. "I expect him to be here because he has not left yet and I'm 90 per cent sure he will be."

Source : www.skysports.com
By James Pearson - Created on 15 Jul 2007

Keane unfazed by pressure

Roy Keane has brushed off concerns pressure could be an issue for the budding Sunderland boss in the Premier League.

The Manchester United great has less than a year of managerial experience under his belt having guided The Black Cats back into England's top flight inside 12 months.

The pressure will be on Keane to maintain Sunderland's Premier League status after the North East side claimed just three wins in 38 outings last time around.

However, the only pressure the Irishman will be feeling will be the strain and stress he puts on himself to win and make Sunderland a better team.

"Maybe I am missing something but I don't feel pressure at all," he told the Sunday Mirror. "The only pressure I felt as a player was from myself.

"I am the same as a manager. Come the first match I will put pressure on myself. But I don't feel pressure from people outside the club.

"Our whole belief is that the players go out and express themselves. Hopefully they are picking up from myself and my staff that there is no fear factor here.

"In the last five or six months of last season every game was a must-win match but there was not one day that I picked up any nervousness from the players. Never.

"It is something I learned from Brian Clough and other coaches and in my last couple of seasons as a player when I wasn't enjoying myself as much because of injuries.

"You have to enjoy what you do. There are millions of people who don't enjoy their jobs. This is possibly the calmest period of my football career."

Source : www.skysports.com
By James Pearson - Created on 15 Jul 2007

Jose confident over trio

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho is confident Frank Lampard, John Terry and Arjen Robben will stay at the club.

The trio have yet to agree new deals at Stamford Bridge with contract talks stalling between all parties.

Real Madrid have been strongly linked with a move for Robben, while a number of top clubs across Europe are thought to be monitoring Lampard's and Terry's situation in West London.

Mourinho is determined to keep the trio and he believes all three want to stay at Stamford Bridge.

"Frank Lampard, John Terry and Arjen Robben want to stay," Mourinho told the Mail on Sunday.

"Chelsea want them to stay. But who knows, maybe tomorrow one of them signs a new contract.

"I don't think Robben will go."

Mourinho also rejected renewed speculation that Andrei Shevchenko could leave the club to return to Milan.

Reports in Italy suggest Milan are close to agreeing a deal to bring the Ukrainian ace back to the San Siro with the player believed to be keen on the switch.

However, Mourinho has dismissed the rumours and says he has not heard anything from Shevchenko about looking for a move away.

When asked if Shevchenko would stay at Chelsea, Mourinho said: "Why not? He's here.

"He didn't say that to me [that he wanted to leave]. He is working since day one, he's playing, he does his work, his personality didn't change. For me he looks the same Sheva."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 15 Jul 2007

Davies eyes more arrivals

Derby boss Billy Davies has admitted he is still keen to add to his squad.

Davies has brought in three new faces as he prepares for life back in the top flight with Rob Earnshaw, Tyrone Mears and Andy Todd all joining the Premier League new boys.

The Scot believes he needs to bolster his options if his side are to enjoy success next term.

"We still need to strengthen right through the team," Davies told the News of the World.

"We're looking at a lot of people and that'll continue in the next few weeks.

"So there could be a couple of new faces. We have the staff in place but still have a lot of work to do before we are ready for the first game."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 15 Jul 2007

Harry backs Kanu

Harry Redknapp believes Kanu can be Portsmouth's super-sub this season.

The experienced Nigerian hit-man is out of contract this summer and in talks with the South Coast side over a fresh deal.

Redknapp wants Kanu to stay as he has the ability to influence games from the bench.

Kanu would have a clause in his deal that secures a second season if he features in 20 games and Redknapp is confident the former Arsenal man would hit the target.

"He has still got a part to play, he can come on and turn a game," Redknapp is quoted in the Daily Star on Sunday.

"If you don't play 20 games you're not worth another year really, but he'll play 20, I'm sure."

Source : www.skysports.com
By James Pearson - Created on 15 Jul 2007

Younis confirms Black Cats snub

Iraq international Younis Mahmoud has confirmed Sunderland made a move for his services in May.

The 24-year-old is currently attracting a host of interest due his displays for Al Gharafa and his country in the Asian Cup.

Younis is keen to further his career, but family issues prevented him from accepting Roy Keane's offer from The Black Cats.

Sunderland could well face competition for Younis further down the line with Ligue 1 duo Marseille and Lille both interested in the striker.

"I spoke to Sunderland two months ago," said Younis. "They asked me but I had a problem and because of my family I wouldn't go.

"Marseille and Lille also spoke with me but my family are in Iraq. I want to take them out but my father likes it there and won't go. Maybe next year I'll move."

Source : www.sksyports.com
By James Pearson - Created on 15 Jul 2007

Ashton happy with return

Dean Ashton made a successful return to action on Saturday after 11 months on the sidelines.

The 23-year-old made a welcome return as a second half substitute in Saturday's pre-season friendly with Dagenham & Redbridge.

Ashton missed the whole of last season after breaking his ankle on international duty.

The former Crewe and Norwich ace was happy with his return after admitted he feared for his career at one point.

"I want to now enjoy my football because at one stage I never thought I would get back," admitted Ashton.

"It has been a long old year and a tough year for me - it is just nice to be back doing what I like most.

"It was nice to get 45 minutes under the belt. My touch and timing will take time - but the main thing is I went out there and it felt good.

"I feel as good as I have ever felt. Now it is just a case of the football to get right."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 15 Jul 2007

Everton miss out on Simic

Everton have failed with a move for Dario Simic, according to the player's agent.

The Toffees have held a long-term interest in the Milan defender and tried to sign him last summer without success.

Simic has struggled to hold down a regular place in the Milan side over the last few seasons and Everton were believed to be keen to offer him a route out of the Giuseppe Meazza.

The Croatian's agent, Marco Naletilic claims Everton and Marseille expressed an interest in Simic, but that Milan have decided to reject all offers.

"The player has a contract with the Rossoneri until 2009," Naletilic told the Daily Star on Sunday.

"The defender had some interesting offers from Everton and Marseille, but after a chat, Milan directors Ariedo Braida and Adriano Galliani decided that my client would not be sold."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 15 Jul 2007

Peru star open to Fulham move

Peru international Alberto Rodriguez is flattered at being linked with a move to Premier League outfit Fulham.

The Sporting Braga ace is being tipped to move to England after starring for his country in this summer's Copa America.

Rodriguez knows Braga hold the key to his future, but, given a choice, would jump at the chance to play in England's top flight.

"I know about this news and am happy to be linked with Fulham," he is quoted in the News of the World.

"The decision will rest with Braga because I have signed a deal with them.

"But my choice is clear. I want to play in England - simply because the Premier League is one of the best leagues in the world."

Source : www.skysports.com
By James Pearson - Created on 15 Jul 2007

Harewood in Wigan talks

Marlon Harewood is set to become Wigan manager Chris Hutchings' seventh summer signing, according to Sky Sports News.

The West Ham striker is believed to be in Greater Manchester discussing a potential £4million move to The Latics.

Harewood has already been linked with moves to Manchester City and Birmingham City this summer, but now appears to be on his way to Wigan.

Hutchings, who took over from Paul Jewell in May, has spent £5.3million on West Brom midfielder Jason Koumas and has brought in Newcastle pair Antoine Sibierski and Titus Bramble on free transfers.

Goalkeeper Carlo Nash has also arrived from neighbours Preston, together with former Chelsea defender Mario Melchiot and Helsingborgs defender Andreas Granqvist.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Andy Clarke - Created on 14 Jul 2007

City land Fernandes

Manchester City have swooped to sign highly-rated Swiss midfielder Gelson Fernandes.

The 20-year-old has penned a four-year deal at the City of Manchester Stadium after the two clubs agreed a fee worth 9.5million Swiss francs (£3.8million) - which is a record sale for the Swiss league.

Fernandes has attracted interest from Bolton and Newcastle in previous months, but City have moved to seal their second signing in 24 hours following the arrival of Rolando Bianchi from Reggina.

Fernandes, who is Swiss Under-21 captain, will meet up with City's squad for the first time on Sunday ahead of their pre-season camp in Sweden.

New City boss Sven Goran Eriksson is now firmly looking to stamp his own impression on the squad and more new signings are expected to arrive over the next six weeks.

Reports in Spain on Saturday suggested that City are amongst the clubs competing for the signatures of Barcelona pair Thiago Motta and Ludovic Giuly.

Meanwhile, Eriksson has confirmed the appointment of Hans Backe as his assistant manager.

Backe guided FC Copenhagen to three successive titles and was most recently in charge at Panathinaikos.

Eriksson said: "I've known Hans for a very long time, and I offered him this job but because he has been a manager I didn't know if he would accept.

"He's won three titles with FC Copenhagen, managed in Austria and Turkey, but he accepted the offer and I'm very happy. He has a lot of experience, he knows a
lot of players from around the world and he's a very good coach."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Graeme Bailey - Created on 14 Jul 2007

Mourinho plans to stop signing

Jose Mourinho has said Florent Malouda will probably be his last signing of the summer.

Chelsea's Premier League challenge last season was hindered by a series of injuries to key players and Mourinho was expected to bring in a number of new faces to safeguard against something similar happening again.

He has added Steve Sidwell, Tal Ben Haim, Claudio Pizarro and Malouda to his ranks, as well as recalling Glen Johnson from his loan spell at Portsmouth.

Although he has not ruled out doing more business, Mourinho thinks his squad is already in good shape for the start of the season.

"The market is open and when the market is open you never know," he told Sky Sports News.

"But I don't think so. The squad is very good and we have at this moment alternatives.

"We have the protection we didn't have last season for some positions when we were in some trouble with injuries.

"I think it is more than enough the squad we have."

Malouda, meanwhile, is excited about the prospect of linking up with close friend Didier Drogba.

Drogba was the Premier League's top scorer last term but Malouda is confident he can help him be even more prolific.

"With Didi we don't have to talk to understand each other. He knows that I will support him, he won't have to defend a lot," Malouda said in the Daily Mirror.

"Las year he scored a lot of goals without me, but I hope all the strikers will score more goals than last year."

Chelsea's pragmatic style of play has not made them the most popular team in England in recent seasons but Malouda sees no reason to adopt a more cavalier approach.

He said: "I don't know if we will be more entertaining. I come to win. I prefer to win and to be boring.

"If we could play good football and score many goals it would be better.

"At Lyon we had a good defence and we were free to attack. I hope it will be the same here."

In other Chelsea news, goalkeeper Stuart Searle has joined from non-league Basingstoke.

The 28-year-old worked at Stamford Bridge in a part-time coaching capacity but has now left Basingstoke to provide back-up to Chelsea's reserves as well as carrying on his previous role with the academy.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Lewis Rutledge - Created on 14 Jul 2007

Kanu set to commit to Pompey

Kanu is set to commit his future to Portsmouth after the Premiership club made an improved contract offer.

Last season's top scorer remains a free agent after turning down the club's offer of a one-year deal but the situation could now be resolved within days.

The Nigeria international has been holding out for a two-year contract but may now settle for a better wage over the next 12 months.

The deal is likely to include an option for a further year should Kanu make a certain number of appearances, although his opportunities may be limited by the signings of John Utaka and David Nugent.

Kanu's representative Samuel Okoronkwo said: "The position is positive.

"We have other options but Portsmouth have improved the position and we are considering it very seriously.

"We are hopeful we can close the deal this weekend, if not next week.

"Harry Redknapp says he is desperate for Kanu to stay. We have a chance to kill this - we are working on it."

Redknapp could further improve his attacking options by handing a contract to trialist Geovanni, who scored one goal and made another in the friendly at Yeovil on Saturday.

Meanwhile, former Pompey striker Svetoslav Todorov says he left the club after being made a 'poor' contract offer.

"I have respect for myself," said Todorov, who left last month to join Charlton.

"I was offered the same money as (Collins) Mbesuma and the final reason I left is that there was not a big effort to keep me.

"I know I gave everything for this club in the time I was there. I helped Portsmouth into the Premiership and I helped keep them there but the club made me a really poor offer."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Andy Clarke - Created on 14 Jul 2007

Black Cats close on Richardson

Sunderland are widely reported to have agreed a deal with Manchester United for Kieran Richardson.

The England midfielder is now due in the North East to hold talks with a view to finalising a move to Wearside.

It is believed Sunderland have agreed to pay United £5.5 million for the 22-year-old - who has come through the youth ranks at Old Trafford.

Manchester City's new chief Sven Goran Eriksson - who gave Richardson his international debut - is also thought to be keen.

However, Richardson's former United team-mate Roy Keane appears on course to secure his signature.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Graeme Bailey - Created on 14 Jul 2007

Gunners thrilled to keep Cesc

Arsene Wenger has insisted he was always confident Cesc Fabregas would stay at Arsenal.

The Spaniard pledged his future to The Gunners this week despite admitting he had held talks with Real Madrid.

Thierry Henry joined Barcelona last month but Wenger maintains there was no danger of Fabregas following him to Spain.

"There was never any question in my mind," he told Sky Sports News.

"I think he has six or seven years left on his contract and I think he has shown many times he is committed to the club."

Kolo Toure is also happy to keep Cesc Fabregas, and warned Arsenal's Premier League rivals that he expects the midfielder to be even stronger this season.

"It is going to be really important for Arsenal because he is one of our best players," said Toure.

"Cesc is improving and I think this season he is going to be much better."

Toure also backed Arsenal's young strikers to fill the void left by Henry.

"It is true that we have lost Titi but we have some good strikers in Emmanuel Adebayor, (Robin) van Persie and Eduardo da Silva," he explained.

"We all have to work together and do something for the club."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Lewis Rutledge - Created on 14 Jul 2007

Coppell drops Korean hint

Reading boss Steve Coppell has revealed he is interested in signing a South Korean player.

Coppell, who is currently in Korea with Reading for The Peace Cup, told the local media that he could soon be adding another South Korean player to his squad to link up with Seol Ki-hyeon.

"This summer I'm looking to improve the current squad and I'm keen on a player from South Korea," he said.

"However, I can't reveal any more details at this stage as negotiations have not started."

The news has led to increased speculation on the future of Ulsan Hyundai star Lee Chun-soo, who had been previously linked to Reading's Premier League rivals Fulham and Chelsea.

Other South Korean players rumoured to be on Coppell's wish list are Tottenham's Lee Young-pyo and Seongnam Ilhwa Chunma playmaker Kim Do-heon.

Meanwhile, Coppell was satisfied with Reading's performance in the 1-0 defeat to River Plate on Friday.

"We haven't played for eight weeks and we've only been training for about ten days in total," he said.

"For us to play against such a good side as River Plate and for us to be so strong - certainly in the physical sense as the game developed - I was looking for these things and was quite pleased with what I saw.

"In the first half, with great respect to River Plate, they played some great football and we found it very difficult to get close to them.

"But after half-time we got ourselves organised a bit better, we played with a higher tempo and it was more of a game in the second."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Edwin Chong - Created on 14 Jul 2007

Gardner faces six-week lay-off

Bolton defender Ricardo Gardner is set to miss the start of the Premier League season.

The 28-year-old was forced off during Bolton's Peace Cup clash with Seongnam on Thursday.

Now scans have revealed that the injury is serious and the Jamaican will be out for six weeks, which is a blow to Bolton boss Sammy Lee.

"The results of the scan reveal that he has a grade one tear of his hamstring, which is a great shame for Ricardo," said Lee.

"The incident could have happened at any time to any player - it was very unfortunate.

"His recovery process will start immediately and will continue when we return to Bolton next week."

Some better news was that Stelios Giannakopoulos's calf problem is not serious.

"The injury to Stelios is not as bad as first feared," Lee told the club's website.

"The medical team will monitor his rehabilitation over the next few days with a view to him resuming training at some stage early next week."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Graeme Bailey - Created on 14 Jul 2007

Trialist fails to earn Villa deal

Aston Villa have decided not to give a contract to trialist Steve Mandanda.

The goalkeeper handed in a transfer request at Ligue 2 side La Havre at the end of last season and trained with Villa this week in a bid to earn a deal.

However, he will now have to look elsewhere after Martin O'Neill and his coaching staff decided not to keep him on.

Mandanda is understood to have impressed on trial and O'Neill is keen to keep tabs on him.

"We will be monitoring him, but we never got as far as discussing a price," the Villa boss told the club's official website.

"He trained with us for three or four days and he trained well. He did well.

"We will keep an eye on things, but we will certainly not be doing anything in the near future."

Marseille had been linked with the French Under 21 international but pulled out of the race earlier this week.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Lewis Rutledge - Created on 14 Jul 2007

Aurelio doubt for Reds

Rafa Benitez has confirmed that Fabio Aurelio may not be fit for the start of the new season.

The Brazilian full-back suffered cruciate ligament damage last season and had been expected to be fit in time for pre-season training.

However, Benitez has admitted there is a major doubt over Aurelio.

"Fabio isn't fit yet. It could be another month before he is recovered, but we knew it would be a long time when he suffered the injury," said Benitez.

"He is improving, but it's not easy when you have this kind of injury."

Meanwhike, Benitez has also confirmed the appointment of a new goalkeeper coach with Spaniard Xavi Valero replacing fellow countryman Jose Ochotorena.

"Xavi is an important addition to our backroom staff and I'm looking forward to working with him," said Benitez.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Graeme Bailey - Created on 14 Jul 2007

Blades' High Court bid rejected

Sheffield United have been refused leave to appeal over the Carlos Tevez affair.

The Blades took their case to the High Court, following an independent arbitration's panel's decision not to over-turn the Premier League's decision to only fine West Ham over the Tevez-Javier Mascherano transfer wrangle.

United felt West Ham should have been deducted points, rather than the £5.5million fine they received, and were looking to be reinstated in the Premier League.

However, Justice Andrew Smith ruled against United and also denied their request to take the case further to the Court of Appeal.

Speaking outside the courts, the club's solicitor Paul Stothard (pictured) insisted the fight may not be over - but first issued a statement on behalf of the club.

"Sheffield United have not been granted leave to appeal aspects of the arbitration panel's decision earlier this month.

"This application was made on very limited grounds and it has also been denied on very limited grounds.

"Sheffield United are not precluded from taking further action whether against the Premier League or West Ham.

"We will consider our position with our professional advisors and make further statements in due course."

Speaking to Sky Sports News, Stothard added: "We can’t go to the Court of Appeal on this particular issue and that’s all that we’ve been precluded from doing. Obviously now we have to go away and think about what we can do.

"As Kevin (McCabe, United chairman) said recently we’ve got a long agenda of things that we can do with regards to this. We’re still on the first page and I think you can be fairly confident that the issue won’t rest there."

On possible reinstatement, he said: "Time’s been ticking since the last game of the season. We have to go away, look at what’s been said today and we have to make our minds up. We will issue a further statement on that one.

"I think you’ve always got an uphill battle when you’re trying to overturn a decision which has already been made. We’ve seen that, we’ve seen in the first instance with the arbitral tribunal that they disagreed with that first decision, the decision not to dock points from West Ham, but even that wasn’t enough legally.

"The legal tests are very stringent, they are very hard. Many aspects of this case have been completely unprecedented and certainly Sheffield United cannot be criticised for trying these.

"As Kevin said it shows Sheffield United is not a club to be pushed around, they may be a small club but it’s a club with good advisors, a professional approach, with good long-term plans and if it won’t be playing in the Premier League next season it will certainly be looking to gain promotion and put forward its business plan for the next few years which is to establish itself as a Premier League force."

He also admitted that the club would at the very least look to gain compensation.

"Certainly if we cannot get reinstated then compensation would be top of the agenda because obviously there are very significant consequences financially for being relegated from the Premier League wrongfully as we believe we have been," he said.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Graeme Bailey - Created on 13 Jul 2007

City wrap up Bianchi capture

Manchester City have completed the capture of Reggina striker Rolando Bianchi for an undisclosed free.

The 24-year-old, who will wear the City number 10 shirt, becomes new manager Sven Goran Eriksson's first signing.

Bianchi was Serie A's fourth highest scorer last term with an impressive 18-goal haul, scoring the goals that helped retain Reggina's top-flight status.

Former England boss Eriksson believes Bianchi has a great future ahead of him in the game and is hoping his recent goalscoring record continues at City.

"He scored nearly 20 goals last season in Serie A, which is a lot of goals in such a difficult league," he told the club's official website.

"He's young, and I think it's a very important signing because he should have a great future. He's a good footballer as well as a good goalscorer, which is what we need.

"If you can score nearly 20 goals in Serie A and you are not with one of the top clubs like Milan or Juve then you must be talented.

"It's a good record, and let's hope he continues with it. I'm very optimistic about Rolando."

Source : www.skysports.com
By James Pearson - Created on 13 Jul 2007

Healy joins Fulham

David Healy has joined Fulham on a four-year deal from Leeds.

The Northern Ireland international will be reunited with former national team boss Lawrie Sanchez at Craven Cottage.

The 27-year-old striker has scored 29 goals in 59 appearances for his country.

"Obviously I know Lawrie Sanchez well and through his time as manager of Northern Ireland he has given me a lot of support, so I'm really looking forward to playing under him in the Premiership," Healy said.

"It was a disappointing end to my time at Leeds with the club being relegated and I wish them well for the future."

Sanchez added on the club's website: "My interest in signing David Healy has been well documented in recent months and I am delighted that he has signed for the club today.

"David has showcased his striking pedigree at the highest level with Northern Ireland in recent years, and I have every confidence tha the will replicated the same form for Fulham in the Premiership.

"The signing of David Healy follows the addition of Diomansy Kamara and I am pleased with the quality in attack that will be at my disposal next season."

Healy becomes the fourth Northern Irish player to join the club this summer.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Amanda Cornforth - Created on 13 Jul 2007

Babel completes Reds move

Liverpool have confirmed the signing of Ryan Babel from Ajax.

The Dutch forward has put pen-to-paper on a five-year deal after the two clubs agreed a fee of £11.5million earlier this week.

Babel joins Yossi Benayoun as the latest two signings at Anfield and both will be presented by the club later on Friday.

The 20-year-old, who will wear the number 19 shirt, will have to compete with a number of other players for a place in Rafa Benitez's side.

But he is delighted to have completed his move from Ajax and is relishing the challenge ahead.

"It was very important how the coach spoke to me, how I would fit in his team," Babel told the club's official website.

"After that conversation I knew it was the right decision.

"I have a good feeling about things.

"I met Dirk Kuyt at training, who I knew from the national team. At that moment he did not feel like a rival but I suppose that is what will happen."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Lewis Rutledge - Created on 13 Jul 2007

Freddie says 'no' to Prem move

Freddie Ljungberg's agent has ruled out the possibility of the Arsenal midfielder joining another English club.

Ljungberg appears to be heading for the Arsenal exit door this summer and Manchester City and Sunderland were reportedly keen on the Sweden international.

However, agent Claes Elefalk says The Gunners are the only Premier League side that Ljungberg will play for in his career.

"I haven't talked to Fredrik about that (interest), but he has earlier said that due to his respect for the Arsenal fans he can't play for another English club," Elefalk told TT.

Fiorentina are one club known to be interested is signing the 30-year-old, but have yet to agree a transfer fee with Arsenal.

Ljungberg was reportedly holding up any move to Italy because of his wage demands, but that is not the case, according to Elefalk.

"Arsenal are demanding more than the offer Fiorentina have tabled," he said.

"The clubs have to reach an agreement first, then we will sit down and discuss an eventual offer.

"We haven't reached that stage yet."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Kent Hedlundh - Created on 13 Jul 2007

Konchesky heads to Fulham

Fulham have signed Paul Konchesky on a four-year contract from West Ham United.

The full-back has headed across the capital for an undisclosed fee after spending two years at Upton Park.

He made 70 appearances during his time with The Hammers and was recently the subject of a failed bid from Birmingham City.

Blues opted against upping their offer and Konchesky was happy to link up with Lawrie Sanchez's side instead.

"When I knew that Fulham were interested in me I was really pleased," Konchesky told the club's official website.

"I then met with Lawrie and talked about his plans for the future here and I was really impressed with what he had to say; so it wasn't a difficult decision to make the switch across London.

"Obviously the club has made a few signings this window, so it's a case of us all settling in and getting on with training, and I'm really looking forward to it."

Konchesky is Sanchez's fifth signing, following the additions of Northern Ireland trio Aaron Hughes, Steven Davis and Chris Baird, along with Diomansy Kamara, and the Fulham boss is happy with his new recruit.

Sanchez said: "I am delighted that Paul Konchesky has joined the influx of players that we have managed to bring to Fulham Football Club.

"His calibre as a defender has been recognised on the international stage with England and he brings a wealth of Premiership experience to our side.

"At 26 Paul's best footballing years will be spent at Craven Cottage and I am looking forward to him becoming an integral member of our side next season.'

Source : www.skysports.com
By Mark Buckingham - Created on 13 Jul 2007

Chopra ties up Black Cats move

Michael Chopra has signed a four-year contract with Sunderland after passing a medical.

The Premier League new boys have paid an undisclosed fee, believed to be £5million, to Cardiff City for the striker.

Sunderland's bid activated a clause in Chopra's contract and the deal represents a substantial profit for Cardiff, who paid Newcastle United £500,000 only 12 months ago.

Chopra scored 22 goals in the Championship last season and Dave Jones had been hoping to hang on to the forward.

But Jones was also aware that every player has his price and will now look to fill the void at Ninian Park.

Chopra's signing is Black Cats manager Roy Keane's third of the summer after deals were struck for defensive duo Greg Halford and Russell Anderson.

Keane had been determined to bring in a new striker and withdrew a bid for David Nugent, who subsequently joined Portsmouth.

With Chopra now on board, Keane will turn to other targets as the Irishman looks to consolidate Sunderland in the top flight.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Mark Buckingham - Created on 13 Jul 2007

Babel: An easy decision

Ryan Babel is relishing the prospect of playing alongside top players at Liverpool.

The Dutchman signed a five-year contract with Reds on Friday after Ajax accepted an offer of £11.5million.

Babel is now looking forward to fighting for a place in the Liverpool side and experiencing the atmosphere of Anfield.

He also hopes his versatility will allow him to play regularly.

"It feels very exciting. Liverpool are a big club," he said on Sky Sports News.

"My favourite position is striker but I can play a lot of positions.

"I think there are a lot of big players here and I am a young player, so for me it is important to learn from these players and it will make me a better player."

Babel was strongly linked with Arsenal earlier in the summer and he admits he did follow their games closely.

But he insists there was never any contact from The Gunners and never had to think twice about joining Liverpool.

Asked what Arsenal meant to him, Babel said: "Nothing: Arsenal are a beautiful club but Liverpool came first and I play for them now.

"If you play in Holland you watch a lot of English football and if there is a player you are very excited about, for example Thierry Henry, you are ultimately going to look at Arsenal.

"But if you look at a club who has interest in you are going to see they are also a great club, so it was an easy choice for me.

"The crowd, the trainer, the squad, great players, I think everything is exciting here."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Lewis Rutledge - Created on 13 Jul 2007

Mourinho admits American dream

Jose Mourinho has revealed a desire to coach in Major League Soccer.

The Chelsea boss has admitted he would 'love' to follow in the footsteps of David Beckham and end his career across the Atlantic.

While Beckham is ending his playing days in America with Los Angeles Galaxy, Mourinho says a stateside opportunity to see out his managerial profession would be something that appeals to him.

"I am tempted. In 20 years' time, yes, I would love to come," said Mourinho, who is currently in America with Chelsea as they continue their pre-season preparations.

"Beckham is at the end of his career as a player and when I am at the end of my career as a coach I would love it.

"The country is amazing and I think it is a big challenge to help soccer to become more important in this country.

"But Beckham's the one to do it, the best one to do it.

"European football will miss him because he has more than enough quality to play the European game, but for the objectives of him to come here I think he is the perfect player.

"If the objective is to bring soccer up in the US then I think they couldn't choose a better player for that.

"I think what he means to the world of football is more than a football player."

Chelsea have travelled to America for the previous three pre-seasons and Mourinho believes he has already seen a positive change in attitude towards football in that time.

"The players in American teams have quality, tactical quality, and they have passion. I think a lot of kids love the game here," Mourinho concluded.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter Fraser - Created on 13 Jul 2007

Lee rules out Michalik sale

Sammy Lee has dismissed reports linking Leeds with a bid to sign Lubomir Michalik.

The Bolton defender had a spell on loan at Elland Road last season before returning to The Trotters towards the end of the campaign.

Dennis Wise was rumoured to be considering trying to take the Slovakian stopper back to Leeds but Lee says he is going nowhere.

"The reason Lubomir went out on loan was to gain experience of football in this country," he told the Bolton News.

"He is part of my plans for the coming season."

Meanwhile, Bolton have been successful in their appeal to have Nicky Hunt's red card at the Peace Cup overturned.

Hunt was shown a straight red card following an altercation with Brazilian striker Itamar in the 1-1 draw with Seongnam.

The right-back is now available for the remainder of Bolton's Peace Cup campaign.

"We got the call from the organising committee to say Nicky's red card had been nullified," Lee told the club's official website.

"We all felt after the game that he was going to miss at least one match. It means he can play the rest of the tournament, which is important at this stage of pre-season."

Bolton have had to pay a £500 fine, which will be donated to youth football projects in Korea.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Andrew Scurr - Created on 13 Jul 2007

Hughes won't rush Reid

Blackburn Rovers manager Mark Hughes says that he will not be rushing Steven Reid back from injury.

The Blackburn boss has revealed the midfielder, who missed all but three of last season's matches with back and knee injuries, is not too far away from a return to action.

The Republic of Ireland international was expected to play in last Tuesday's friendly against Wrexham, however Hughes says the 26-year-old did not participate in the game because Rovers did not want to take any undue risks.

"Steve joined in over the weekend but he just felt his calf tighten up, that was all it was," Hughes told Blackburn's official website.

"The knee is fine but he is going to little niggles because he's been out for a year.

"But, we're not going to push him back quickly as it is important that when he does come back he is fit and strong and well."

Blackburn are currently on a pre-season training tour in Germany.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter Fraser - Created on 13 Jul 2007

Benitez happy with progress

Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez believes his squad is heading in the right direction following a busy summer in the transfer market.

The Reds boss added two fresh faces on Friday in the shape of Yossi Benayoun and Ryan Babel. The deals coming hot on the heels of Fernando Torres' arrival last week.

Benitez is unsure whether he has spent enough to mount of serious title challenge, but is pleased he has the financial clout to compete with the Premier League's finest.

"I feel we are going in the right direction," said Benitez. "If you look at the value of the squad three years ago and its value now, the squad is much better.

"I don't know, however, if it will be enough for winning the title. Manchester United won the title and are spending more money than anyone.

"Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham are also spending lots of money but at least we are competing with these teams in the market and that is important.

"We needed to go one step, maybe two steps at a time, but in fact we are going a little bit faster than anticipated."

Although competition for places in Liverpool's squad is fierce, Benitez believes each player battling for their place will raise standards.

"I prefer to have pressure as that brings on competition," he continued. "We are really pleased with the squad as I feel it has enough balance.

"You always want two players in each position and we are now really close to this situation."

Source : www.skysports.com
By James Pearson - Created on 13 Jul 2007

Joorabchian claims innocence

Kia Joorabchian has denied "any wrongdoing whatsoever" over allegations of money-laundering.

Joorabchian has reportedly been issued with an arrest warrant in Brazil as part of an investigation at Corinthians, which Media Sports Investment, Joorabchian's company, is a major investor in.

However, Joorabchian, who represents Manchester United target Carlos Tevez, says his financial dealings are all aboveboard.

"The investigation in Brazil has been rumbling on for some considerable time and apparently involves numerous individuals including the president, club officials and partners of Corinthians Football Club," Joorabchian said in a statement.

"I deny any wrongdoing whatsoever. I have co-operated fully with the authorities in Brazil and have previously offered to speak to them directly, an offer that they have not taken up.

"The investigation has been provoked by the desire of a small group of individuals in Brazil to gain control over Corinthians Football Club. All payments made to Corinthians by MSI were cleared through and approved by the Brazilian Central Bank.

"My Brazilian lawyers are instructed urgently to prevent me being personally involved any longer in this dispute. I am advised, and believe this matter will be resolved very shortly."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Andrew Scurr - Created on 13 Jul 2007

Benayoun revels in Reds move

Yossi Benayoun has expressed his happiness after completing a 'dream' move to Liverpool.

The Israeli midfielder, who joined The Reds from West Ham on Thursday, is already looking forward to making his mark at Anfield.

He wants to help Liverpool claim some silverware and admits he even took a pay cut to push through a deal.

He told Sky Sports News: "I am very excited to be at a big club like Liverpool. I am very happy.

"The money was not an issue. When you have interest from Liverpool you can't refuse and I just had to go after my dream.

"For me it is a massive step forward, the biggest move of my career of course.

"I never had a chance to play for a club that fights every year for trophies and plays in the Champions League, so it is a dream for every player.

"But I am grateful to West Ham for letting me go and want to thank them for everything."

Benayoun is aware he will not be guaranteed a starting spot every week but is confident he can become a key player in Rafa Benitez's side.

"I proved in my two seasons at West Ham I can play in the Premier League and now I just need to concentrate and prove that I deserve to be here," he said.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Lewis Rutledge - Created on 13 Jul 2007

Milner pens Magpies deal

Newcastle have announced that James Milner has signed a new contract.

The England Under 21 winger has been in talks for a number of months over extending his contract and he has now put pen-to-paper on a four-year deal.

"I'm delighted to have signed a new contract," said Milner, who is now tied to St James' Park until 2011.

"Newcastle United is a great football club and hopefully I can be here for a few more years yet and help the team be a success.

"It's certainly exciting times at the club and I am very happy to be a part of it."

The extension for Milner is a clear sign that he will be major part of new boss Sam Allardyce's plans for next season and beyond.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Graeme Bailey - Created on 13 Jul 2007

Keane happy with Chopra boost

Sunderland manager Roy Keane believes Michael Chopra will boost the side's prowess in front of goal following his move from Cardiff.

The striker was the Championship's second-top scorer last season as he netted 22 goals from 42 games with the Bluebirds.

The 23-year-old former Newcastle player has signed a four-year deal at the Stadium of Light for a fee that could rise to £5million depending on appearances after completing a medical and agreeing terms on Friday afternoon.

"I'm delighted that Michael has joined us," Keane told the club's website.

"He's a natural goalscorer who will bring competition with our other quality strikers to the side. I'm very confident he will score goals for this football club."

Chopra becomes the third player to join the Black Cats over the summer following Keane's capture of Greg Halford and Russell Anderson.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Amanda Cornforth - Created on 13 Jul 2007

Sevilla reject Alves reports

Sevilla have moved to reject speculation which has suggested Chelsea have tabled a bid for Daniel Alves.

The usurped Premier League champions are known to be in the market for a right-back and have earmarked the attacking 24-year-old as a possible acquisition.

It has been suggested Chelsea have made an offer in the region of £13million but Sevilla have rejected these reports, as they bid to keep hold of their prize asset, with club president Jose Maria del Nido issuing a firm denial.

"We have not received any offers for Daniel Alves," he told the club's official website.

"I wish to reiterate that no-one has shown an interest in him, hence, we cannot speak about something that hasn't taken place."

Alves has emerged as one of Europe's top full-backs in the past few seasons and has courted attention from several of the world's biggest clubs.

The player's agent, Jose Rodriquez Baster, has previously claimed his client is desperate for Sevilla to accept a bid lodged by Chelsea.

Alves' existing contract at the Primera Liga club is not set to expire until 2012.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Alex Dunn - Created on 13 Jul 2007

Cesc to stay after Real talks

Cesc Fabregas has once more pledged his future to Arsenal after admitting he held talks with Real Madrid.

The Spanish champions have made a concerted push to try and prise the midfielder from Emirates Stadium over the summer.

Arsenal have been determined to hang on to Fabregas following Thierry Henry's sale to Barcelona, but doubts about manager Arsene Wenger's long-term future have raised questions about the Spaniard's own situation.

However, Fabregas has now confirmed he will be staying with the Gunners after thanking Real for showing an interest.

"I'm very grateful to Real and it is an honour that such a great club is interested in me," Fabregas told Radio Marca.

"But after the departure of Thierry Henry to Barcelona I couldn't leave Arsenal in the lurch.

"I spoke to Real's president Ramon Calderon and sport director Predrag Mijatovic, and they are spectacular people.

"It was very satisfying to listen to them as Real Madrid is a great club, but I have decided to stay at Arsenal.

"I had a long talk with Wenger. He is someone I can talk to about anything.

"I have total confidence in the boss that he will sign a new deal. Wenger believes in this team and has a lot of confidence in the squad.

"I am only 20 and all I have to do is enjoy my football and improve, and I want to do that with this team."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Mark Buckingham - Created on 13 Jul 2007

Fergie: Jose jibe funny

Sir Alex Ferguson has laughed off claims from Jose Mourinho that Manchester United's summer spending spree has put him under increased pressure.

United have already splashed out over £50million to sign Anderson, Owen Hargreaves and Nani, while the champions are also trying to push through a deal for Carlos Tevez.

In contrast, Mourinho has picked up three free transfers for Chelsea, and stumped up 'just' £13million for Lyon winger Florent Malouda.

Mourinho has claimed that Ferguson is now under more pressure to deliver in the new season, but the Scot has dismissed his Chelsea counterpart's assertion.

"It's an amazing statement actually," Ferguson told Sky Sports News. "I don't think he knows I've been here for 20 years.

"Whether he is trying to transfer some of the pressure - maybe he's under pressure himself, I don't know.

"I thought it was quite funny."

Ferguson also expects Arsenal to finish in the top four, suggesting Arsene Wenger's side will be stronger for the sale of Thierry Henry to Barcelona.

He added: "They'll be in the top four without question, I'm more convinced they'll be in the top four without Henry.

"I just think it was time to go, I think Arsene knew that and I think they will be better."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Mark Buckingham - Created on 13 Jul 2007

Wizards want to keep Johnson

Kansas City Wizards are aiming to hang on to reported Derby County target Eddie Johnson.

Speculation has claimed that the Premier League new boys are keen to sign the United States international striker.

Johnson is currently the joint top scorer in Major League Soccer and has enjoyed a burgeoning reputation in recent seasons.

Derby boss Billy Davies is hoping to follow up the club record capture of Robert Earnshaw by bringing another forward to Pride Park.

But Wizards technical director Peter Vermes has outlined the club's desire to hang on to Johnson, whilst admitting bids have been lodged over the summer.

"Certain clubs have made bids on Eddie in this transfer window and I'm sure we'll hear many more," Vermes told the Kansas City Star.

"As far as we're concerned, Eddie's with us. We're excited to have him back.

"Nothing has materialised that would lead to Eddie leaving us. We want him here.

"He's having a lot of success under this new management. We want that to continue."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Mark Buckingham - Created on 13 Jul 2007

Todorov: I deserved more

Former Portsmouth forward Svetoslav Todorov insists he was forced to leave Fratton Park because the club showed no desire to keep him.

The Bulgarian, who has now joined Charlton on a free transfer, believes Pompey's decision to offer him the same terms of contract as outcast Collins Mbesuma gave him no option but to head for the exit.

"Pompey's offer was the same contract as Collins Mbesuma's," Todorov told The Portsmouth News.

"Come on! I have respect for myself.

"The final reason why I left is there was not a big effort to keep me.

"I helped Portsmouth into the Premiership and I helped keep them there, but the club made me a really poor offer.

"It's about being valued, the club made no effort in my view.

"There are no hard feelings from me, though, I really appreciate all the support I was given.

"The fans don't know how much their support means to me.

"I have spent a big part of my career with Portsmouth so it is hard to leave, but sometimes hard decisions have to be made."

Todorov started 57 games in his five years at Portsmouth and in that time he scored 33 goals.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter Fraser - Created on 13 Jul 2007

Arrest order for Joorabchian

The purported transfer of Carlos Tevez to Manchester United has taken a fresh twist, with the news that an arrest order has been issued for businessman Kia Joorabchian, the representative responsible for the player's affairs.

A federal judge in Brazil has charged Joorabchian, amongst others, with money-laundering and being part of a criminal gang, for the role he played in the relationship between Media Sports Investment (MSI), the company he fronts, and Corinthians, the Brazilian club he first took Tevez to, before bringing him to England.

London-based MSI has been under investigation ever since it took over Corinthians back in 2004, with Brazilian intelligence known to have run thorough checks on the company.

"The (MSI) transactions are carried out with the use of numerous offshore accounts which have the single and well-known intention of distancing the investor and the illicit origin of the resources from their final destination, in this case the purchase and sale of (football) players," the federal attorneys Silvio Luis Martins de Oliveira and Rodrigo de Grandis are quoted as saying on Brazilian legal website consultor Juridico.

The detention of Corinthians president Alberto Dualib has also been ordered, along with that of Russian oligarch Boris Berezovsky, whose money is thought to have bankrolled MSI. Both face similar charges.

News of Joorabchian's impending arrest has overshadowed the news, revealed exclusively to Sky Sports News on Thursday, that Tevez would wrap up his move to Manchester United in the next few days.

Suspicions of corruption were raised by the failure of money involved in the purchasing of players to be passed through the country, in a chain of events which has manifest accusations of money laundering. Both MSI and Corinthians have reportedly been unable to clarify the origins of the money, which proceeded to lead to the investigation, that has ultimately led to Joorabchian's impending arrest and cast further doubts over Tevez's move to United.

Joorabchian has been at the centre of the furore caused by Tevez's switch to West Ham, which concluded at the campaign's end with the Premier League club being fined £5.5million, having been found guilty of third-party ownership.

Sheffield United, who feel they should be reinstated to the top flight, at West Ham's expense, have taken the matter to the High Court, but it would appear Joorabchian now has more pressing affairs of his own.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Alex Dunn - Created on 13 Jul 2007

Bridge concerned by injury

Wayne Bridge admits he is unsure if he will be fit to start the season with Chelsea.

The full-back is receiving treatment on a hip injury picked up while on international duty with England earlier in the summer.

He is due to undergo a scan on the problem in the United States, where Chelsea are currently preparing for the new Premier League campaign.

Bridge is frustrated that the injury is hampering his efforts to get fit and is still uncertain as to the severity of the hip complaint.

"Obviously I picked up a little injury, so I'm not too good," Bridge told Chelsea TV.

"I just want to get it over with and out of the way really.

"I will go and see someone, and have a few more scans, and see what's said and take it from there.

"It's very frustrating. No player wants to miss pre-season, it's one of the things you've got to do to get over all the muscle aches and everything.

"I'm going to have to work especially hard, but it depends on what happens. I don't know when or where yet."

When asked if he was confident of being fit for the season opener against Birmingham on 12th August, Bridge replied: "I don't know, I'm not sure."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Mark Buckingham - Created on 13 Jul 2007

Martins seeks Toon talks

Obafemi Martins is braced for showdown talks with Newcastle boss Sam Allardyce, with the powerful Nigerian seeking assurances on his future following the arrival of Mark Viduka.

Newcastle had a dearth of attacking options last season following serious injuries to Michael Owen and Shola Ameobi but the pair are now fit, and when coupled with the signing of Viduka, Martins could find himself scrapping for a starting spot.

Martins showed in his debut campaign in England last term that he has all the attributes to be one of the division's finest, with the pacey front-man having exploded into life in the second half of the year, after what was a slow start.

Such good form prompted talk of a £13million swith to Arsenal, when it became public knowledge that he had insisted on a release clause, upon his arrival from Internazionale.

Allardyce must now reassure Martins of the role he is to play at St James' Park next season, after the player told the Daily Mirror: "I have a meeting with the manager when I get back to training.

"We will see what happens then."

While Martins' future remains subject to conjecture, one man delighted to be wearing black and white is Viduka, and the big Australian cannot wait to work in tandem with Owen, who has this week pledged to stay at Newcastle

"I believe that these can be good times to be at Newcastle which is why I am more than happy to be here," he told The Daily Telegraph.

"The fact he (Owen) is going to stay here at Newcastle has got to be brilliant for the fans and the team.

"He's obviously a very different player to me, but I would like to think that if selected we would be able to complement each other very nicely and create a successful partnership."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Alex Dunn - Created on 13 Jul 2007

Baird tips bright future

Fulham new boy Chris Baird is confident Lawrie Sanchez's new-look side will not be battling to beat the drop next season.

Sanchez has wasted little in stamping his own mark on Craven Cottage, having made several signings upon being named as Chris Coleman's permanent successor in the summer.

Former Northern Ireland boss Sanchez has brought three of his former charges to West London, with the signing of Baird following on from the capture of Aston Villa duo Aaron Hughes and Steven Davis.

Baird rejected an offer from Sunderland in order to link up with Sanchez and having moved to the capital, he is confident he has arrived at the correct choice.

"We don't want to be in the same position we were in last season - we want to be secure in the Premier League and hopefully we can finish much higher up next year," he said.

"I'm sure with the players we've got we can do that. It's been a long, hard wait but thankfully it's all done and dusted now and I'm a Fulham player.

"To play in the Premiership was one of the major reasons for me coming here.

"There are good quality players here and I'm just looking forward to the season. It's not the easiest start against Arsenal but I don't see why we can't get a result if we do things right in pre-season."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Alex Dunn - Created on 13 Jul 2007

Brett wants Benni to stay

Blackburn midfielder Brett Emerton hopes that team-mate Benni McCarthy will remain at the club next season.

Former Porto player McCarthy has attracted attention from other sides, including Chelsea, following an impressive debut campaign in England with Rovers as he scored 24 goals.

"Benni is a fantastic player and he had a great season last year," said Emerton.

"Any player would love to have him in their team, I hope he stays but obviously that is a decision he has to make."

Emerton, who is away on duty with Australia in the Asian Cup at present, also hopes that Blackburn boss Mark Hughes will bolster the squad with some fresh faces ahead of the start of the new season.

Hughes has so far brought in Maceo Rigters and Gunnar Nielsen during the summer.

Emerton's response when asked whether he thought Rovers would be making some new signings was: "I hope so because any players who can strengthen the squad we welcome with open arms.

"Hopefully there will be a few additions to the team which will strengthen our chances of doing well this season."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Amanda Cornforth - Created on 13 Jul 2007

Reo-Coker sights on Europe

Nigel Reo-Coker believes pushing for Europe is a realistic aim for Aston Villa.

The club's new signing is determined to make an immediate impact at Villa Park and feels a top-six finish is within the team's grasp.

He believes further additions to Martin O'Neill's squad will put Villa in a position to challenge at the top end of the Premier League table.

"The top six is realistic because Villa have got the players, and always have had, and now they're heading in the right direction," Reo-Coker told the Birmingham Mail.

"Martin says he's going to make four or five more signings, but he keeps his cards very close to his chest.

"He's told me why he wanted to sign me and that was all I needed to know.

"For me it's just great to sit next to such a great manager. He's made me feel so comfortable, it's unbelievable."

Reflecting on the club's placing last season, Reo-Coker added: "Some people might look at it and think it's not a great season to finish 11th.

"Villa drew games and weren't conceding goals, and if they had had a goalscorer or someone on top of their game, then they would have finished in Europe.

"So I don't see that as a great negative and if we can build on that with a few additions this year, why can't we achieve more next season?"

Source : www.skysports.com
By Mark Buckingham - Created on 13 Jul 2007

Latics complete Koumas deal

Wigan have completed their sixth signing of the close-season with the £5.3million acquisition of Jason Koumas.

The Wales international arrives at The JJB on a four-year deal, after concurring on personal terms following productive talks with Wigan boss Chris Hutchings.

Koumas is widely regarded to be one of the best players outside of the Premiership, and has previously courted attention from the likes of Everton and Aston Villa.

While West Brom were loath to lose a player who would have been integral to their bid for promotion next season, the move does represent an astute piece of business in a financial sense.

Koumas moved to The Hawthorns from Tranmere back in 2002 for a £2.25million fee, with his subsequent switch to Wigan representing a £3million profit.

Hutchings has wasted little time in stamping his own mark on the club since succeeding Paul Jewell, having added Koumas' signing to those of Titus Bramble, Mario Melchiot, Antoine Sibierski, Carlo Nash and Andreas Granqvist.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Alex Dunn - Created on 10 Jul 2007

Sagna closes on Arsenal switch

Bakari Sagna will complete his move from Auxerre to Arsenal on Tuesday, according to widespread reports emanating from France.

The talented full-back, who prefers to operate on the right but can also play on the left, is thought to have undergone a medical at Emirates Stadium.

A five-year year deal is purported to have been agreed, after the two clubs concurred on a fee in the region of £6million.

Sagna arrives with a growing reputation in his homeland, having been drafted into Raymond Domenech's France squad, although he has yet to win his first cap.

A whole host of Europe's biggest clubs were thought to be monitoring Sagna's situation, but it is Arsenal who have stolen a march on their rivals to secure his services.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Patrick Haond - Created on 10 Jul 2007

Hammers nail Bellamy deal

West Ham have completed the signing of Craig Bellamy from Liverpool.

The Welsh international has penned a five-year deal at Upton Park after passing a medical and agreeing personal terms.

West Ham have paid a club record £7.5million fee to land the former Newcastle and Blackburn hit-man.

Liverpool decided to offload Bellamy as he is surplus to requirements following the signing of Fernando Torres.

Bellamy is West Ham's fourth signing of the summer following the captures of Scott Parker, Julien Faubert and Richard Wright.

Bellamy is looking forward to playing at Upton Park and he has pledged to stay at the club for the long-term.

"I had a great experience at Liverpool and I believe West Ham will benefit this year, because I know I am a better player for it," Bellamy told the club's official website.

"I've signed a five-year contract here and I will be here for the long-term.

"I've moved around a bit in recent years and now I want to settle."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 10 Jul 2007

Duo eye Hutchinson

Skysports.com understands West Ham and Newcastle are chasing FC Copenhagen star Atiba Hutchinson.

The powerful midfielder caught the attention of a host of clubs after impressing in last season's UEFA Champions League campaign.

Copenhagen face a fight to keep hold of Hutchinson as several sides look to lure him away to a bigger European league.

Newcastle and West Ham have been keeping tabs on the Canadian international as they look to bolster their squads.

Hutchinson's agent, Andreas Kirsch, is aware of interest from the duo and he admitted the 24-year-old would be interested in a move to England.

"There is interest from both clubs in Atiba and there is a lot of interest from English clubs in him," Kirsch told skysports.com.

"We are not in serious negotiations and we will just wait and see what happens.

"They have both scouted Atiba a long time and they have informed us of their interest.

"Atiba would love to come to England, it is one of his main goals to play in England."

German champions Stuttgart are also keen on Hutchinson and Kirsch says preliminary talks have taken place with the club.

"We are in early discussions with Stuttgart and they are keen on signing him."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 10 Jul 2007

Malouda makes Blues move

Chelsea have completed the signing of Florent Malouda from Lyon.

The French international flew into London for talks on Monday and he has agreed personal terms and passed a medical.

Malouda has been seeking a move away from Lyon all summer as he looked to try his luck in a new country.

Liverpool and Real Madrid were believed to be interested in signing the left-sided winger, but Chelsea have won the race for his signature.

Malouda has inked a four-year deal at Stamford Bridge and he will fly out to Los Angeles to link-up with his team-mates on Tuesday.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 10 Jul 2007

Keeper nets Rams move

Derby have snapped up former Preston goalkeeper Ben Hinchliffe.

As revealed by skysports.com last week, Rams boss Billy Davies has moved to link-up again with Hinchliffe after working with him during his time in charge at Preston.

Hinchliffe, who was released by Preston at the end of last season, is highly-rated by Davies.

The 19-year-old has signed a two-year deal at Pride Park after agreeing personal terms and passing a medical.

Hinchliffe will provide cover for Stephen Bywater and Lee Camp for the goalkeeping position

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 10 Jul 2007

Robben happy to stay

Arjen Robben would have no problem seeing out the remainder of his Chelsea contract, should a move to Real Madrid fail to materialise.

The Dutch flyer has been long-linked with a move to El Santiago Bernabeu, but despite numerous rumours the 23-year-old remains at Stamford Bridge.

Robben has conceded he has been aware of Real's interest for some time and that given a choice he would like to try his hand with the European giants.

However, the former PSV Eindhoven star, who has two years left on his Chelsea contract, would have no problem seeing out his Blues deal.

"I've known that Real Madrid have wanted me for some time, but at the moment I'm a Chelsea player," Robben is quoted as saying in The Sun.

"We are dealing with two European institutions of the highest level that are always a force in the Champions League and for whom any player would like to sign.

"I don't know if there has been any contact between the two clubs, and, if not, then I will be a Chelsea player for the next two seasons."

Source : www.skysports.com
By James Pearson - Created on 10 Jul 2007

Fulham fail in Naylor move

Celtic have rejected an approach from Fulham for Lee Naylor.

Fulham boss Lawrie Sanchez has confirmed he made an inquiry for the former Wolves full-back.

Naylor enjoyed a fine debut season with Celtic last term helping them win the domestic double and he was linked with a call-up to the England squad.

Celtic snubbed Fulham's move and are keen to keep Naylor at Parkhead.

"I made an inquiry to Gordon about Lee Naylor," Sanchez told the Daily Mail.

"But that was as far as it got, because Gordon immediately told me that the player wasn't available for transfer. That was the end of the matter."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 10 Jul 2007

Grant claims City snub

New Chelsea director of football Avram Grant claims he rejected an offer from Premier League rivals Manchester City to move to Stamford Bridge.

The former Israel coach left his director of football role at Portsmouth over the weekend to join Chelsea's backroom team

Manchester City were believed to be keen to lure Grant to Eastlands, but the experienced coach says he was always set on joining Chelsea.

"I had an offer from City but I've chosen Chelsea," Grant told The Sun.

Grant also rejected rumours that his appointment at Chelsea had upset Blues boss Jose Mourinho and that the Portuguese tactician had given his blessing to the move.

"Jose Mourinho gave me his blessing for this new job," added Grant.

"It's a dream come true to me after everybody saw that I did a good work at Portsmouth.

"I will be responsible for all the professional matters in Chelsea and a co-ordinator in all football matters.

"I will do everything to help the many causes that Chelsea have."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 10 Jul 2007

O'Neil eyes Nugent arrival

Gary O'Neil believes David Nugent's capture would be a major coup for Portsmouth.

Nugent is now in talks with the South Coast club after initially holding talks with newly-promoted Sunderland.

O'Neil knows Nugent from their time together with England's Under 21s and the midfielder would love to see Pompey bag the striker.

"I know him quite well from some of the Under 21 games," O'Neil told Sky Sports News. "He's a really good lad.

"If we can get him it'll show just how far the club has come, because there are some decent clubs in for him.

"Natural goalscorers seem to score at every level so hopefully he'll be able to do the same."

Meanwhile, Pompey keeper David James has echoed Sol Campbell's comments by saying the club need to bolster their strike force.

"There's no individual area which was costly for us not qualifying for Europe, other than perhaps away from home," said James.

"We did score goals at crucial times, but I think more consistency over the course of the season with a 15 to 20-goal man would be nice."

Source : www.skysports.com
By James Pearson - Created on 10 Jul 2007

Reds close on Babel

Liverpool are closing in on the signing of Ajax ace Ryan Babel after they upped their offer for the forward.

Babel's agent confirmed on Monday that Liverpool had lodged a bid for the highly-rated 20-year-old.

Babel was a member of the Holland squad for the 2006 World Cup and was also a star performer for the Under 21 team in the recent European Championship.

Liverpool's initial bid was believed to have been rejected by Ajax, but Rafa Benitez is thought to have increased his offer for the Dutch international as he looks to beat Arsenal to Babel's signature.

Ajax's technical director Martin van Geel has confirmed Liverpool have increased their bid for Babel and the Dutch giants are resigned to the versatile forward moving on.

"Liverpool are very serious about signing Babel and have made an offer a lot higher than before," van Geel told The Sun.

"Because they want him so much, I think we will lose him."

Babel has never hidden his desire to play in England and Benitez is hoping to push through a deal as he builds a squad capable of challenging for honours on all fronts.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 10 Jul 2007

Fabregas going nowhere

Cesc Fabregas insists he is committed to Arsenal amid fresh interest from Real Madrid.

New Real coach Bernd Schuster confirmed his admiration for the Gunners midfielder on Monday and the Spanish giants are reportedly preparing a £27million bid.

Real were hoping Fabregas would want to quit Emirates Stadium and head back to his homeland this summer.

But the 20-year-old is adamant he has no plans to leave Arsenal and will snub Real's advances to stay with Arsene Wenger's men.

"Everyone wants the best for me, but I'm happy in London and I haven't made any plans to go," Fabregas said in the Daily Star.

"Seeing people of all ages, young and old, wearing the shirt with my name on it in London is an honour and gives me a lift.

"I could play every game, the fans were on my side and that means you're doing things well."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Andrew Scurr - Created on 10 Jul 2007

Hammers eye Okkas swoop

West Ham have handed a trial to Yanniks Okkas.

The 30-year-old Cypriot international is currently without a club after leaving Olympiakos.

Okkas has long been linked with a move to England and he now has the chance to seal a deal with The Hammers.

Reports suggest that should Okkas impress manager Alab Curbishley - then there is a two-year deal waiting for him.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Fotis Voinikas - Created on 10 Jul 2007

Ferguson doesn't want to sell

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson insists he does not want any of his current squad to leave.

The Scot has finalised the signings of Owen Hargreaves, Nani and Anderson this summer, with Carlos Tevez set to follow shortly.

The likes of Alan Smith, Gabriel Heinze, Mikael Silvestre, Giuseppe Rossi and Kieran Richardson have all been strongly linked with moves away from the club.

However, Ferguson insists he wants to keep his squad intact - although he admits some players may leave because they want first team football.

"I don't expect anybody to leave," said Ferguson.

"But it may happen because some players will view the situation and think maybe they won't get enough games to satisfy them.

"But there are no decisions made at the moment."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Graeme Bailey - Created on 10 Jul 2007

Javier backs Torres to shine

Javier Mascherano believes Fernando Torres will score the goals to fire Liverpool towards a Premier League title assault.

Mascherano has been celebrating himself recently, after scoring twice in the Copa America, and the Argentine believes goals will not be in short supply at club level following the arrival of Liverpool's new £20million signing.

"Fernando's arrival will be very positive," Mascherano told the Daily Star.

"He will complement the great team we already have in place very well, he is a brilliant player.

"He will be useful to create chances, he will make us more dangerous in attack and I'm sure that he will score quite often."

Mascherano's goals came in Argentina's recent Copa America victories against Peru and Paraguay, but the holding midfielder does not feel this is a sign of things to come.

"My Argentina team-mates have been joking with me for scoring two goals," added the 23-year-old.

"They are only the fifth and sixth goals of my career as I'm not a goal scorer.

"Of course now I have to score one for Liverpool.

"I hope I score for the Reds soon, but I know that is not my duty, let's leave that to Fernando."

Mascherano has also praised Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez for giving him a second chance in English football.

"I will always be grateful to Liverpool for giving me back the joy of playing. My gratitude towards them will never end," concluded Mascherano.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter Fraser - Created on 10 Jul 2007

Schwarzer denies German talk

Mark Schwarzer insists he has not had any contact with any other club.

The Middlesbrough number one has voiced his concerns in recent days about the club.

He was disappointed at what he perceived was the club's failure to tie down Mark Viduka to a new contract, before he switched to Newcastle - and although he is in talks over a new deal, he thinks they wait too long to open discussions.

However, despite links to several Bundesliga sides in recent weeks - German-speaking Schwarzer, who arrived in England from Germany, says he has not talked with any other clubs.

"I am under contract with Middlesbrough and it is illegal to have contact with any other club so as far as I am concerned no," he told Sky Sports News.

"I have got one-year left on my contract with Middlesbrough, and my agent is in discussions with Middlesbrough at the moment and that is all.

"Like I said I have one year left on my contract and until such time when I am no longer under contract, or I am told something else, I will be at Middlesbrough and I will be at the start of the season."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Graeme Bailey - Created on 10 Jul 2007

JC goes ga-ga over radio slur

amie Carragher has angrily rejected suggestions that he does not have the stomach to fight for his place in the England team.

The Liverpool defender is considering his international future after growing increasingly frustrated at his lack of chances in the team.

Carragher has yet to make a definite decision on his international future, but concedes it is likely he will quit playing for England.

The 29-year-old was furious after it was suggested in an interview he was taking the easy way out and he hit back at the slur.

"Don't ever call me a bottler on radio with all those thousands of people listening," Carragher said on talkSPORT.

"I've had the stomach to fight for my place for the last eight years.

"All I can do is play as well as I can for Liverpool. I've never played that well for England because I've played a lot of the time at full-back.

"There's that many people he's [England manager Steve McClaren] played ahead of me. It's a game of opinions.

"But when you're at my age they are all younger than me, they are all going to improve and maybe I won't at my age.

"I'm 29, I've been doing it for eight years and obviously I haven't proved it enough so it's not going to change now is it?

"It's not like I've just got in the squad and I've jumped out.

"At the moment it's not 100 per cent official because I've still got to speak to the manager before the next game.

"But it's looking like that and as I said, if there was a major injury crisis and the four centre-halves who he obviously picks ahead of me are all injured and he's absolutely desperate then of course I would (come back), yeah."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 10 Jul 2007

Thaksin to face court date

Manchester City's prospective new owner Thaksin Shinawatra has been ordered to appear in court to face corruption charges.

The former Thailand Prime Minister has agreed an £81.6million deal to buy City even though concerns have been raised about the takeover.

Last month Shinawatra's bank accounts in Thailand were frozen following an investigation into corruption, and the powers-that-be in his homeland are now keen to learn the source of the money he will draw on to complete his takeover of City.

Shinawatra was required by law to declare all his assets during his time as Prime Minister, and none of the declarations disclosed any foreign assets.

Shinawatra has been charged with concealing assets and has also been accused of a number of alleged cases of corruption and abuse of power.

Shinawatra denies the allegations, relating to a land deal transacted while he was in power.

Supreme Court judges have called on the former Thai prime minister to be present at the start of his trial on August 14th to face the charges and if found guilty he could face a prison sentence.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 10 Jul 2007

Fergie waits on Tevez transfer

Sir Alex Ferguson is expecting Manchester United to complete the signing of Carlos Tevez in the coming days.

The Argentine has agreed personal terms to join the Premier League champions, who are trying to resolve the issue of his registration with West Ham United and the Premier League.

Tevez's representative Kia Joorabchian is also involved in the negotiation process, but Ferguson believes the matter will conclude with the striker moving to Old Trafford.

"We have had a negotiation, it's well documented, with Carlos Tevez," said Ferguson at a press conference on Sky Sports News.

"The essential parts, it's all agreed, we're just hoping to finalise it soon.

"I thought it was going to be done by last weekend. Everything seemed perfectly okay, so the hold-up must be with the Premier League."

Ferguson also anticipates none of the problems which blighted West Ham's signing of Tevez, with the East London club fined £5.5million.

The United manager insists nothing 'dodgy' will occur in his club's quest to bring the South American to the club.

He added: "I don't know about the intricacies, I've left that to Maurice Watkins, he's dealing with that.

"I'm sure the outcome will be that we will be taking him with complete clarity in the deal, with no suspicions or anything dodgy about it.

"There is no way we can be involved in anything that's underhand at all."

Tevez's capture would complete a big-spending summer for Ferguson, who has already secured deals for Anderson, Owen Hargreaves and Nani.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Mark Buckingham - Created on 9 Jul 2007

Malouda poised for Chelsea

Lyon winger Florent Malouda is on his way to Chelsea in a €20million (£13.5million) deal, with the two clubs having now come to an agreement over the fee.

Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas revealed on Sunday that an accord for the France international had been struck, and Chelsea have now confirmed to Sky Sports News that a deal has been done with the French champions.

In what has been a protracted transfer, Lyon have stood firm over what they feel is a fair price for a player who has been integral to their dominance of French football.

While Chelsea's rivals have spent big in the close-season, Jose Mourinho has thus far been prudent in the transfer market, largely relying on free transfers as he looks to bulk a squad that is already one of the strongest in Europe.

They have now made a significant move of their own, with the signing of Malouda set to be sealed on Monday subject to a medical.

"The transfer was concluded for a sum of €20million. It was a good transaction," Aulas told The Associated Press after a Lyon friendly at Albertville, France.

The length of the deal was not disclosed but it is hoped that all formalities will be concluded in time for Malouda to travel with his new team-mates on Monday, for a pre-season tour of United States.

"The London club is completely in agreement with the amount we're looking for. I'm waiting for a confirmation email from Chelsea's chief executive Peter Kenyon," Aulas added on Lyon's television channel OLTV.

"It's fantastic and great news for Florent. I've just phoned him and he's going to be able to leave tonight to undergo a medical in London on Monday."

Meanwhile, Michael Ballack will not be with the squad for the first week of the America tour, as he steps-up his rehabilitation from ankle surgery.

"A decision will be taken later, depending on progress, about whether he will join the squad for the latter part of the tour," read a club statement.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Alex Dunn - Created on 8 Jul 2007

Anelka makes Bolton pledge

Nicolas Anelka has pledged his future to Bolton, amid talk that the well-travelled striker could be ready to quit the Reebok Stadium.

Speculation has been rife in the close-season that the talented-but-temperamental front-man is keen to quit Bolton, in the pursuit of UEFA Champions League football.

A number of clubs, including Valencia and former employers Arsenal, have been mooted as suitors of the France international but Anelka has moved to reaffirm his commitment to Bolton.

Ahead of the club's pre-season tour of South Korea, Anelka has issued a timely boost to new Bolton boss Sammy Lee.

"I have sat down with Sammy Lee over the weekend and he has outlined his plans for the coming season," Anelka told the club's official website.

"I like his philosophy and I am looking forward to working with him at the club. He is passionate and wants to continue Bolton's recent success.

"His ambition matches mine and I want to commit to him. There has been a lot of speculation about my future, but I can honestly say that I am very happy in England and at Bolton.

"This is a great club with a strong mentality based around being successful.

"We head off to South Korea this week and that will be a good test for us. The summer has been busy for me with internationals and the fact that I got married.

"The close-season has been short, but I feel refreshed and ready for the new season."

Rookie tactician Lee is loath to lose any of his top names, as he bids to step into the sizeable void left by Sam Allardyce's switch to Newcastle, and he has spoken of his delight at Anelka's renewed enthusiasm for the club.

"I have been concerned about the speculation in the media linking some of my players with moves away from the club. It has been unsettling, but I remain confident that quality players will want to stay here.

"I had a very positive conversation with Nicolas (Anelka) and he has given me his commitment. He enjoys playing for Bolton and last season he felt that his career was progressing back to his best on the back of his solid performances for us."

While Lee is understandably pleased with Anelka's stance, he also concedes that should a top club come calling, then he will sanction his departure.

"I know he has ambitions of playing in the Champions League again, which I hope can be achieved with us," concluded Lee.

"If that can't be the case, I will not stand in his way should a Champions League club come in for him and the deal is right for Bolton Wanderers.

"Until that time, he doesn't want to play football anywhere else but here."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Alex Dunn - Created on 8 Jul 2007

Anelka makes Bolton pledge

Nicolas Anelka has pledged his future to Bolton, amid talk that the well-travelled striker could be ready to quit the Reebok Stadium.

Speculation has been rife in the close-season that the talented-but-temperamental front-man is keen to quit Bolton, in the pursuit of UEFA Champions League football.

A number of clubs, including Valencia and former employers Arsenal, have been mooted as suitors of the France international but Anelka has moved to reaffirm his commitment to Bolton.

Ahead of the club's pre-season tour of South Korea, Anelka has issued a timely boost to new Bolton boss Sammy Lee.

"I have sat down with Sammy Lee over the weekend and he has outlined his plans for the coming season," Anelka told the club's official website.

"I like his philosophy and I am looking forward to working with him at the club. He is passionate and wants to continue Bolton's recent success.

"His ambition matches mine and I want to commit to him. There has been a lot of speculation about my future, but I can honestly say that I am very happy in England and at Bolton.

"This is a great club with a strong mentality based around being successful.

"We head off to South Korea this week and that will be a good test for us. The summer has been busy for me with internationals and the fact that I got married.

"The close-season has been short, but I feel refreshed and ready for the new season."

Rookie tactician Lee is loath to lose any of his top names, as he bids to step into the sizeable void left by Sam Allardyce's switch to Newcastle, and he has spoken of his delight at Anelka's renewed enthusiasm for the club.

"I have been concerned about the speculation in the media linking some of my players with moves away from the club. It has been unsettling, but I remain confident that quality players will want to stay here.

"I had a very positive conversation with Nicolas (Anelka) and he has given me his commitment. He enjoys playing for Bolton and last season he felt that his career was progressing back to his best on the back of his solid performances for us."

While Lee is understandably pleased with Anelka's stance, he also concedes that should a top club come calling, then he will sanction his departure.

"I know he has ambitions of playing in the Champions League again, which I hope can be achieved with us," concluded Lee.

"If that can't be the case, I will not stand in his way should a Champions League club come in for him and the deal is right for Bolton Wanderers.

"Until that time, he doesn't want to play football anywhere else but here."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Alex Dunn - Created on 8 Jul 2007

Grant lands Chelsea role

Chelsea have appointed Avram Grant as their new director of football.

Grant has left his role as Portsmouth's technical director to take up the job at Stamford Bridge.

The former Israel manager is believed to be a close friend of Blues owner Roman Abramovich.

Grant is set to link up with Chelsea next Monday for their tour to the USA.

A Chelsea statement read: "Chelsea Football Club is delighted to confirm the appointment of Avram Grant as Director of Football.

"Grant will be responsible for liaison on, and co-ordination of, football matters across the various areas of Chelsea FC.

"He will also sit on the football club board and report to chief executive Peter Kenyon.

"His experience and knowledge will play an important role in the formulation of overall football policy with Kenyon, manager and first team coach Jose Mourinho and director of youth development and scouting Frank Arnesen."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 8 Jul 2007

Robbie's Keane to make mark

Robbie Keane has confessed that Tottenham have set their sights on breaking the 'top four's' hegemonic grip at the summit of the Premier League.

In the past two seasons Tottenham have run North London rivals Arsenal close for fourth place and, after a summer in which they have invested £30million and their neighbours sold Thierry Henry, talismanic Irishman Keane is eyeing usurpation in the capital.

Spurs have demonstrated a spending power in the summer that is unlikely to be matched by many, and Keane believes the signings of Darren Bent, Gareth Bale and Younes Kaboul can only boost their chances of qualifying for UEFA Champions League football.

"If you want to progress and get in the Champions League, which we are striving for, you need a good squad of players," said Keane.

"Competition is always healthy and you have to get in the gaffer's head.

"Every season we are looking for progression, we finished fifth twice and we want to push on and break into the top four.

"With the squad of players we've got we're quite capable of doing it. It's up to us to do it.

"We don't want to jump the gun. We know how difficult it will be. Arsenal are a top side, they lost Henry but they are still a brilliant team.

"The big squad we have will be helpful because you always pick up injuries through the season, with the players we have we've got two for every position which is good."

Spurs' bid for a fourth placed finish in the past few campaigns has been hampered by slow starts and, with this in mind, Keane is eager for his team-mates to show their intent from the very first game of the season.

"We didn't start off too well last season so we know we have to be consistent for the whole campaign. If we were last season we could have gone for it but it wasn't to be.

"We know what we did wrong last season and we want to put it right and get off to a good start.

"We started gelling after Christmas last season, with a year behind us we can really progress and push on."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Alex Dunn - Created on 8 Jul 2007

Cech aware of title rivals

Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech believes next season's title race could be closer than ever, with all of the capital club's rivals having invested in the transfer market.

While Chelsea have been relatively subdued in terms of new signings, pending the arrival of £13.5million Florent Malouda, the likes of Manchester United and Liverpool have made significant signings.

Cech believes both of these clubs will be capable of challenging for the Premier League title, while he is quick to not rule out the threat of Arsenal, despite the sale of Thierry Henry to Barcelona.

"We will see how Arsenal can cope with the departure of Thierry Henry, the best striker in the club's history," Cech told Pravo.

"On the other hand, they have got a lot of money in return and they can buy a good replacement.

"Manchester United have strengthened their squad and they will definitely be keen on defending the title. Liverpool have bought more players, mainly from La Liga.

"It is good mainly for the Champions League, as European-style football is useful there. The question is how these players settle in the Premiership.

"They might not be used to playing here right from the start."

Although Chelsea have settled for a summer of prudence, in comparison with the lavish spending of bygone campaigns, Cech is confident that they will have more than enough quality to compete for honours.

"Three new players have come in, on free transfers so the club has not spent much," he added. "But the squad is sufficiently large and of a good quality.

"I am glad that almost all the players have stayed, including the coach Jose Mourinho. There can be injuries again, but I believe that we will be even stronger.

"It is important that the best players like (Didier) Drogba and (Frank) Lampard have remained with Chelsea."

Cech also confirmed that he will continue to use the protective headgear he wore last season, following what was a serious injury sustained at Reading.

"I have undergone another complete medical and the doctors have advised me to keep using the helmet.

"The fans will therefore see me with it again next season. Of course, I would like to put it aside, but on the other hand, it is necessary to lower the risk."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Vasek Kadlec - Created on 8 Jul 2007

Viduka targets Owen link-up

Mark Viduka believes he can form a formidable partnership with Michael Owen at Newcastle United.

Former Leeds forward Viduka, who joined The Magpies from Middlesbrough, admits he has been a long-term admirer of the England striker.

And asked whether they can form a good strike pairing, he said: "I hope so. I've always admired his ability and I think we can complement each other, because we are different types of players."

Viduka is likely to start with Owen, battling it out with Obafemi Martins for the other place in attack.

Viduka is currently on duty with Australia in Thailand as they embark on their first AFC Asian Cup campaign.

The Socceroos began the tournament with a disappointing 1-1 draw against Oman.

Expectations of Viduka among Newcastle fans will be high - but he believes he can cope with the pressure.

"I will probably have to deal with that when it comes," he said.

"There is always big expectation, because Newcastle are a massive club and want to do well - and I want to do well there.

"We will cross that bridge when we come to it."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Chris Harvey - Created on 8 Jul 2007

Blues look at Greek keeper

Greek goalkeeper Michalis Sifakis is set for a trial at Birmingham, according to reports from the player's homeland.

The OFI Crete man was expected to arrive in the Midlands at the weekend, or on Monday at the latest, with Steve Bruce to take a look at him in training.

Sifakis has international experience and is thought to be available at around £200,000 should Birmingham be keen on striking a deal.

Bruce is known to be on the lookout for fresh faces as he plots Birmingham's return to the Premier League for next season.

It does, though, remain to be seen whether reports from Greece of his interest in Sifakis have genuine credence.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Fotis Voinikas - Created on 8 Jul 2007

Sven rules out Becks and Owen

Sven Goran Eriksson has ruled out making moves for his former England favourites David Beckham and Michael Owen as he begins his rebuilding plans at Manchester City.

Sven at City - Your View

The Swede, who was confirmed as City's new manager on Friday, is actively scouring the transfer market to bolster City's squad for the coming season.

Eriksson has promised to bring in new faces soon, but he says he is not planning any moves for either Beckham or Owen.

Owen's future at Newcastle has been the subject of intense speculation all summer with the former Liverpool man having a buy-out clause in his contract at St James' Park.

Beckham, who is set to join up with MLS side LA Galaxy this month, has been linked with a possible loan move when the season ends in America in November as he looks to safeguard his international place.

However, Eriksson insists he has no plans to sign the duo who served him so well during his time in charge of England.

"I didn't even know that there was any possibility of Beckham being available on loan, but no, no, no. I haven't thought about it and won't think about it," Eriksson told the News of the World.

"He was a big favourite of mine [with England] but at Manchester City we are trying to build a great team, and when you're trying to do that you don't take a player for a couple of months.

"As for Michael Owen - he's available? I didn't know that. Michael Owen will always score goals for you...but I don't want to read that I'm interested in signing him either."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 8 Jul 2007

Jags tipped for success

Joleon Lescott has tipped new Everton signing Phil Jagielka to be a hit at Goodison Park.

Lescott, who vacated the number 16 shirt to take hold of the number five jersey he once wore at Wolves, believes the £4million signing from Sheffield United will fit in well.

The defender has now handed his old number to his new team-mate.

The two know all about each other, having played together at England Under 18 level and on opposite sides during their time in the Championship.

Lescott told evertonTV: "Jags has got my old number and I wish him all the best. We played against each other for the past five years and have been together at England Under 18s level.

"If he can do what he did at Sheffield United here, he will have no problem at Everton.

"He did exceptionally well in the Championship as well as in the Premiership last season for Sheffield United but unfortunately they got relegated. Fortunately for us we have got their best player."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Chris Harvey - Created on 8 Jul 2007

Robbie's Keane to make mark

Robbie Keane has confessed that Tottenham have set their sights on breaking the 'top four's' hegemonic grip at the summit of the Premier League.

In the past two seasons Tottenham have run North London rivals Arsenal close for fourth place and, after a summer in which they have invested £30million and their neighbours sold Thierry Henry, talismanic Irishman Keane is eyeing usurpation in the capital.

Spurs have demonstrated a spending power in the summer that is unlikely to be matched by many, and Keane believes the signings of Darren Bent, Gareth Bale and Younes Kaboul can only boost their chances of qualifying for UEFA Champions League football.

"If you want to progress and get in the Champions League, which we are striving for, you need a good squad of players," said Keane.

"Competition is always healthy and you have to get in the gaffer's head.

"Every season we are looking for progression, we finished fifth twice and we want to push on and break into the top four.

"With the squad of players we've got we're quite capable of doing it. It's up to us to do it.

"We don't want to jump the gun. We know how difficult it will be. Arsenal are a top side, they lost Henry but they are still a brilliant team.

"The big squad we have will be helpful because you always pick up injuries through the season, with the players we have we've got two for every position which is good."

Spurs' bid for a fourth placed finish in the past few campaigns has been hampered by slow starts and, with this in mind, Keane is eager for his team-mates to show their intent from the very first game of the season.

"We didn't start off too well last season so we know we have to be consistent for the whole campaign. If we were last season we could have gone for it but it wasn't to be.

"We know what we did wrong last season and we want to put it right and get off to a good start.

"We started gelling after Christmas last season, with a year behind us we can really progress and push on."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Alex Dunn - Created on 8 Jul 2007

Torres thanks Fabregas

Fernando Torres says his Spanish international team-mate Cesc Fabregas convinced him to move to the Premier League.

Torres, who joined Liverpool from Atletico Madrid for £20million, spoke to the Arsenal midfielder at length before committing himself to Anfield.

"Cesc has triumphed at Arsenal and, after speaking to him several times, I thought to myself: 'Why can't I repeat my experience?' Torres told the News of the World.

"He (Fabregas) told me the key is not to get desperate if things go against me.

"I understand the first few months at Anfield will not be easy but I'm determined to overcome every obstacle."

Ironically, Torres could have joined Fabregas at Arsenal.

He revealed: "After winning the European Junior Championship in 1999, my name was linked with the big clubs. Offers came in, including one from Arsenal, but at the time I was happy to stay with Atletico."

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez revealed Torres chose Liverpool in spite of bigger offers being made for the Spanish striker.

But Torres has confirmed money was not the deciding factor in his move to Anfield.

"My choice was not down to money. This is a personal challenge. I have signed for six seasons and my desire is to play here for the six."

Liverpool chief executive Rick Parry believes the capture of Torres is proof of the club's strength in the transfer market.

"This (signing) says we are still here, in contention for the biggest names," Parry told the Sunday Mirror.

"If you want to win titles, you have to go for top quality. There aren't that many top-quality strikers around, particularly (aged) 23.

Fernando has committed to six years and that could be six very exciting years for him and us. We still have one or two more targets to go at."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Chris Harvey - Created on 8 Jul 2007

Scolari praises Ronaldo

Portugal coach Luis Felipe Scolari has heaped praised on Manchester United forward Cristiano Ronaldo.

Despite his tender years, Ronaldo has emerged as a leading player for not just United, but also the Portuguese national side.

Scolari has overseen his development on the international scene and just like Sir Alex Ferguson, he is a staunch admirer of the precociously talented wide man.

"For me he is a big person in all respects," Scolari told a press conference to promote his book, Momentos.

"I remember the day of our defeat to Greece in Euro 2004 and after the disappointment passed, he arrived at the positives.

"This winning character has helped take Portugal to a new level in the last few years, and the example was at the World Cup in 2006."

Scolari believes Ronaldo has all the attributes to be the best player in the world, but he has also warned that this aim will only be reached, if the player continues to work hard.

"Cristiano Ronaldo is a wonder in all aspects but there are other men in the world with similar qualities. He needs to keep working to be the unique number one."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Francisco Acedo - Created on 8 Jul 2007

Tevez vows to join United

Carlos Tevez claims he has promised Sir Alex Ferguson he will join Manchester United.

The Argentine striker is determined to do all he can to push through his move to Old Trafford.

The completion of the switch to the Premier League champions has stalled with West Ham arguing the forward cannot leave Upton Park without their approval.

But Tevez wants to honour his pledge to Sir Alex and join his side.

He told The People: "Through my backers I have given my word to Mr Ferguson. They have told him I'll be at Manchester United next season and once I make a promise I don't go back on it.

"There isn't a player who would turn down this opportunity and the negotiations are too far advanced to go back now.

"I have been open and honest with West Ham every step of the way and I hope the fans understand."

Tevez also claims he only decided to quit Upton Park after The Hammers decided not to make his deal permanent.

"My representatives sat down with West Ham at the end of the season and once it became clear they were not going to sign me, they gave me permission to talk to other clubs so I am surprised this is causing such a stink," the Argentine said.

Manchester United believe their move for Tevez will not contravene Premier League rules because it will be no different to Liverpool's January swoop for Tevez's compatriot Javier Mascherano.

But Reds chief executive Rick Parry has questioned the need for loan deals in English football's top flight

Former Premier League supremo Parry believes the loan system could be abused and thinks clubs are wealthy enough to make the practice unnecessary.

He said: "When I was at the Premier League we always took the view that, given the money in the Premier League, you didn't need loans - you should be able to stand on your own two feet.

"There is enough money around to make transfer deals permanent.

"That stood over 10 years. It's only in the last two or three years that we have had the loan system in the Premier League."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Chris Harvey - Created on 8 Jul 2007

Reds plan bigger stadium

Liverpool co-owner Tom Hicks has revealed the club are planning to make their proposed new stadium bigger than first expected.

Hicks ordered a review of the club's plans for a new stadium soon after gaining control at Anfield alongside fellow American George Gillett.

Hicks and Gillett have made the new stadium one of their top priorities and the club are hoping to move into their new home in 2009.

The American billionaires were keen to look into ways of increasing the 61,000 capacity of the new proposed ground at Stanley Park and they are now set to unveil their fresh plans later this month.

Hicks admitted the new plans could see Liverpool's new home go close to 80,000 capacity to make it the biggest club stadium in Britain.

"The city council's planners will receive the final plans on July 25," Hicks told the Sunday Mirror.

"The initial capacity will be the 60,000 previously approved, but the design will accommodate an eventual capacity in the high seventies."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 8 Jul 2007

Boro join Hendrie hunt

Lee Hendrie claims Middlesbrough have joined the chase to sign him.

The former England international is available on a free transfer after seeing out his contract at Aston Villa.

A host of clubs have been linked with the 30-year-old and Hendrie says former Villa team-mate Gareth Southgate has expressed an interest in taking him to Teesside.

"Middlesbrough are the latest club to make an inquiry - there has been interest from eight," Hendrie told the News of the World.

"I know Gareth well and admit it would be very tempting.

"I'd like to stay in the Premiership and think I can still do a job here.

"I hope to get a deal done with someone soon."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 8 Jul 2007

Benni in Rovers pledge

Benni McCarthy has vowed to give his all for Blackburn Rovers in spite of his desire to move on from Ewood Park.

The South African international, who enjoyed a fine first season in the Premier League, has been linked with a switch to Chelsea.

McCarthy has admitted in a Sky Sports News interview he is flattered by reported interest from the FA Cup holders.

And although he is prepared to see out his Blackburn deal, he told the News of the World he is looking to test himself at a higher level.

"I believe I could play for the best team in the world," he said.

"But I'm a professional and will always fulfil my obligations. At the moment I am a Rovers player so nothing has changed.

"I will never hide from my responsibilities."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Chris Harvey - Created on 8 Jul 2007

Blues target Diawara

Birmingham are believed to be chasing St Etienne defender Fousseni Diawara.

Diawara came close to joining Bolton in January, only for the deal to fall through at the last minute.

Birmingham are now thought to be ready to offer the full-back a switch to St Andrews as Steve Bruce continues to strengthen his squad.

Diawara's agent Franck Belhassen claims Birmingham along with several other English sides are tracking the Mali international.

"Birmingham City would like to sign Fousseni Diawara," said Belhassen told the Sunday Mirror.

"But other clubs in England are interested in him and are ready to offer Fousseni a contract."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 8 Jul 2007

Van makes Everton pledge

Andy van der Meyde has vowed to fight to salvage his future at Everton.

The Dutchman has been strongly linked with a move away from Everton after a disappointing spell at Goodison Park.

Van der Meyde made just ten appearances last season and had a very public falling out with boss David Moyes.

The former Ajax and Internazionale winger is determined to prove himself at Everton and he is ready to fight for his place in the side in the coming season.

"I have not had the best times of times at Everton," van der Meyde told the club's official website.

"I know I can do better and I want to please everybody as well as myself. I have been unlucky with injuries and I am trying to start afresh.

"I am passionate about football and it is frustrating when you have been training all week not to play on the Saturday - but that is football.

"The only person to blame is myself and this season I will do better.

"I just want to have a good pre-season and be in the starting 11 for the first match.

"I can't wait for the season to start and it is up to me to do the best I can and the rest is up to the gaffer."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 8 Jul 2007

Royals close on Fae

Reading are reported to be closing in on the signing of Nantes midfielder Emerse Fae.

The Royals have held a long-term interest in Fae and tried to sign him last summer without success.

Nantes rejected all overtures for the Ivory Coast international last year, but after suffering relegation from Ligue 1 they are resigned to losing Fae.

Reading boss Steve Coppell has kept tabs on Fae's progress and sees him as an ideal replacement for Steve Sidwell.

Nantes' sporting director Xavier Gravelaine confirmed a deal was close to being agreed for Fae's exit.

"Fae's transfer should be finalised very soon," Gravelaine is quoted as saying in the Sunday Mirror.

"Only the fact he's been injured has slowed down his departure."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 8 Jul 2007

Kenyon keen to avoid fall out

Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon believes there will be no repeat of the fall out between Roman Abramovich and Jose Mourinho this season.

The pair clashed throughout last term leaving many feeling Mourinho may be forced out by the billionaire owner.

However, the duo reconciled their differences during the close-season and now Kenyon is hoping to avoid a repeat this time around.

"I'm not saying there weren't issues, there were various issues as there are at every club," explained Kenyon.

"That has been addressed and I'm confident about next season and that aspect of Chelsea. I don't think anyone wants a repeat of last year."

Meanwhile, Kenyon is backing Andrei Shevchenko and Michael Ballack to deliver for The Blues this season.

The pair were big-name additions last summer, although neither really lit up the Premier League or lived up to their billing.

However, Kenyon believes after adapting to life in England the high-profile duo will begin to deliver the goods this season.

"Andrei and Mike came in on four-year contracts, not for a year and then if you do okay we'll resign you," he continued.

"It's a four-year commitment to add value to the squad over a period of time.

"Both of those players know they have got much more to achieve and want to achieve much more.

"I remember having a similar conversation this time last year. It can be easy to underestimate the settling in to English football."

Source : www.skysports.com
By James Pearson - Created on 7 Jul 2007

Bellamy not quite a Hammer

West Ham have stated that Craig Bellamy is not quite a Hammer, although they expect a deal to be finalised on Monday.

Earlier on Saturday Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez claimed the former Blackburn and Newcastle striker has sealed his Upton Park switch.

Although a fee has been agreed and Bellamy has concurred on personal terms, he now needs to resolve a private contractual issue with The Reds before the deal can be ratified.

"Following comments attributed to Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez today, West Ham United would like to make it clear that Craig Bellamy has not yet completed a move to Upton Park," read a statement on the club's official website.

"The deal has been delayed due to a private contractual issue between Craig Bellamy and Liverpool, which must be resolved before any transfer can be completed.

"The player is due to meet with Liverpool on Monday morning, and we expect to complete the transfer soon after."

Source : www.skysports.com
By James Pearson - Created on 7 Jul 2007

Tevez in dark on United move

Carlos Tevez says he has little information to provide regarding his proposed move to Premier League champions Manchester United.

It had been thought the Argentina international was closing in on a switch to The Red Devils on an initial two-year loan deal.

However, when asked the latest on his protracted move, Tevez, who is back home in his native South America, was unable to confirm anything.

The 23-year-old is opting to concentrate on preparing to play Peru in the Copa America quarter-finals rather than where he may be playing next term.

"I don't know anything," explained Tevez, whose controversial switch to West Ham last year continues to infuriate Sheffield United.

"I'm focused on the Copa America and don't want to think about anything else."

Source : www.skysports.com
By James Pearson - Created on 7 Jul 2007

Bellamy joins Hammers

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has revealed Craig Bellamy has left to join West Ham.

The Reds have decided to let Bellamy move on after just one season at Anfield.

The record signing of Fernando Torres pushed Bellamy further down the pecking order at Liverpool and West Ham have moved quickly to offer him a way out of Anfield.

West Ham have been keen to bolster their attack and they have been frustrated in their attempts to sign Darren Bent, Mark Viduka and Djibril Cisse already this summer.

Alan Curbishley is actively scouring the market for reinforcements and Bellamy's move could help pave the way for Carlos Tevez to join Manchester United.

Benitez speaking after Liverpool's 3-2 friendly win over Wrexham, confirmed Bellamy had agreed to move to Upton Park.

"He's signed for West Ham, it's done," Benitez told Sky Sports News.

"He knew what I thought and I think it's a good move for him."

When asked if Djibril Cisse had sealed his expected move to Marseille, Benitez said: "Yep, it's done also."

Liverpool have been linked with a move for West Ham's Yossi Benayoun and Benitez confirmed talks are ongoing regarding a deal for the Israeli international.

"I don't know. (If he's coming) It's clear he'd like to come," continued Benitez

"We've made an offer and now we need to wait.

"He's a player I like. We've made an offer, now they said no.

"Now we need to wait because he's a good player for me. "

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 7 Jul 2007

Friendlies Round-Up

Tottenham and Liverpool got their pre-season preparations underway with wins over Stevenage Borough and Wrexham respectively.

Darren Bent scored his first goal to help Spurs to a 3-1 win at Broadhall Way.

Martin Jol fielded quite a strong line-up in Tottenham's first friendly of the summer and they broke the deadlock on 18 minutes with Robbie Keane scoring from the penalty spot after Bent had been fouled in the box.

Stevenage drew level three minutes before the interval with Ollie Allen, son of former Spurs hero Clive, scoring with a neat turn and finish.

Spurs restored their lead straight after the break with Bent marking his debut in style as he raced clear onto Ricardo Rocha's long pass before coolly clipping the ball over the Stevenage goalkeeper.

The impressive Adel Taarabt got a deserved goal on 67 minutes with a shot from the edge of the area.

Besian Idrizaj helped himself to a hat-trick as Liverpool beat Wrexham 3-2 at the Racecourse Ground.

The Austrian striker grabbed the opener after just four minutes when scoring from close-range.

Idrizaj doubled the lead on 19 minutes when Jermaine Pennant got down the right and crossed for Idrizaj to head home with a diving effort.

The same two combined five minutes later for Liverpool to add a third goal with Idrizaj heading home from Pennant's cross.

Eifion Williams pulled a goal back for Wrexham on 63 minutes after a mistake by Liverpool keeper Martin Hansen and Williams netted a second late on as Liverpool held on for the victory.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 7 Jul 2007

Thaksin's three-year plan

Manchester City's prospective new owner Thaksin Shinawatra has given himself a deadline of three years to turn around the club's fortunes.

The former Thai premier Thaksin Shinawatra is on the verge of completing his takeover of City after acquiring 74.03 per cent of the shares in City and declared his takeover offer unconditional.

Shinawatra has appointed Sven Goran Eriksson as City's new manager with the Swede signing a three-year deal at the club.

Shinawatra believes the three-year timeframe is the right amount of time to try and transform City's fortunes and he has vowed to back Eriksson in the transfer market to bolster City's squad.

"Right now, I have no other plan than to make the club very good," Thaksin told a news conference in Hong Kong.

"He (Eriksson) is working with my advisers to bring new players to join the club. We have many good players in the club but it's not enough.

"We have to get good players to the club and this season we have to move forward ... It's hard to tell how much we are going to spend. We need strikers, we need midfielders. We need quite a number, maybe five, six, seven, I don't know."

Meanwhile, former City and England manager Kevin Keegan has wished Eriksson all the best in his new job at Eastlands.

Eriksson is following the same path as Keegan who took time out after quitting England before taking charge at City.

Keegan is aware of the pressure and perils of managing City and he hopes the Swede can be a success at City

"It's a great club with a great support base and I wish him all the luck in the world," Keegan told BBC Scotland.

"It's a club who train 200 yards from Manchester United - two massive clubs in one city - and Manchester United are the biggest club in the world, arguably."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 7 Jul 2007

Ole to be fit for opener

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has confirmed he will be fit for Manchester United's Premier League opener against Reading in August.

The experienced Norwegian hit-man was forced to undergo more knee surgery in the summer after complaining of discomfort in training.

It had been thought The Red Devils could be without the 34-year-old for the start of the new season, but he has rejected the speculation.

However, Solskjaer has conceded he is now at a point in his career where he will not be able to play more than twice in a week for United.

"I'll be starting from scratch, but I will be fit for the league opener," he told P4.

"I won't be able to play two matches a week all season, but if I regain top shape I hope to add upon what I achieved last season.

"The knee will never be 100 per cent again, but as long as it doesn't hurt I'll continue to play.

"I don't know how long I can continue. It might be over after this season or I might be able to play another season."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Kent Hedlundh - Created on 7 Jul 2007

Todd seals Rams switch

Andy Todd has signed a two-year deal with Derby County, skysports.com can confirm.

The 32-year-old was eager to leave Blackburn Rovers and he has now sealed a move to Pride Park after the two clubs agreed terms.

A number of clubs including Birmingham, West Brom and Sunderland had shown an interest - but Todd has opted for Derby, where his father Colin had a number of successful seasons as manager and player.

Todd has signed a deal until 2009 and will hope to help Derby maintain their Premier League status.

"Andy is delighted to have signed for Derby," his agent Peter Harrison confirmed.

"Derby are a great club and Andy is looking forward to playing at Pride Park."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Graeme Bailey - Created on 7 Jul 2007

Fresh Cesc talk played down

Cesc Fabregas's agent insists that he has not held talks with Real Madrid, amid claims the Spanish giants will once again look to try and land the Arsenal starlet.

Real are set to appoint Bernd Schuster as successor to Fabio Capello - and he is believed to have told the club's hierarchy that he wants Cesc.

Real would only be too happy to oblige and sign the Gunners midfielder, but with Arsene Wenger set to stay put at Emirates - Cesc too looks like staying in North London.

"If Wenger had gone away from Arsenal, everything would be different because he is the soccer father of Cesc, and the boy has a lot to thank him for," his agent Joseba Diaz confirmed.

Diaz denied holding any talks with Madrid and insisted he knew nothing of their reported interest.

"Cesc has not considered an exit from Arsenal," he told AS.

"At the moment, there is neither an offer from Madrid for Cesc's services or any type of negotiation.

"It has been said that I have been at the Bernabeu to talk with Madrid about a move - but this is false.

"Cesc will begin training with Arsenal, but this is soccer and you never know what can happen - everything can change, but right now it is impossible that Cesc will be in Madrid because there isn't any offer."

Further reports in Spain have suggested that Wenger has told Madrid he will do a deal for Cesc, but only if they give the Gunners Brazilian star Robinho in exchange - something which the Spanish giants are highly unlikely to do.

Coach-elect Schuster also wants Jose Antonio Reyes back at The Bernabeu.

He spent the whole of last season on loan at Real with Julio Bapstia spending a similar term with The Gunners - but Wenger has already decided not to pursue a permanent deal for him.

However, with Reyes desperate not to return to England - Arsenal and Real are now locked in talks over a permanent deal.

"Reyes doesn't want to return to London," said his agent Jesus Rodriguez de Moya

"If the logical steps are taken, Reyes will be a Madrid player next year.

"Arsenal are not asking for €20million (£13.6million) but they are asking for a reasonable fee in accordance with what they paid to Sevilla. The negotiations are on the table."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Graeme Bailey - Created on 7 Jul 2007

Tevez ready to be Fergie pupil

Carlos Tevez insists he cannot wait to link-up with Sir Alex Ferguson.

Tevez's future looks to be at Old Trafford, even though West Ham are digging their heels in over the Argentine.

Tevez's representative Kia Joorabchian says he has agreed terms with United over the move and it seems the transfer will be concluded within the next few days.

The Argentina striker, currently in Venezuela competing in the Copa America for his country, has again revealed his delight at the prospect of playing for Ferguson and United.

"I only know Alex Ferguson from what I see from the outside but I believe he is a great manager and that I will be a good pupil for him," he told the Daily Mirror.

"Manchester United is a team with a very offensive, attacking style of play. This is the system I always desire.

"Ronaldo is one of the best players in the world. I have spoken with him during the season and I admire him for being a star on the pitch and on the street."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Graeme Bailey - Created on 7 Jul 2007

Villa deny Koumas swap deal

Martin O'Neill has dismissed talk that he could use Gary Cahill and Isaiah Osbourne to land Jason Koumas.

Aston Villa are the latest club to be linked with a move for the West Brom midfielder - and reports claimed that both Cahill and Osbourne could be sent on loan to The Hawthorns as part of a deal for Koumas.

However, Villa boss O'Neill has been quick to deny any such deal is being discussed.

"It's absolute nonsense to suggest that and I have absolutely no idea where this story came from," O'Neill told the club's website.

Both Osbourne and Cahill were heavily involved during O'Neill's maiden season at Villa Park and the pair are likely to play significant roles in their next campaign.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Graeme Bailey - Created on 7 Jul 2007

Fulham bid for Camara

Fulham have made a £4million bid for Wigan striker Henri Camara, according to Sky Sports News.

Lawrie Sanchez is keen to bolster his attacking options for next season and has been linked with a number of strikers.

Fulham have made bids for West Brom's Diomansy Kamara and Blackburn's Jason Roberts, but have been frustrated in their attempts to sign the pair.

The West London outfit are now believed to have turned their attentions to Wigan's Camara as they look to bring in a new front-man.

Camara's future at Wigan has been the subject of speculation all summer with a number of clubs credited with an interest in his services.

Fulham are now waiting to see if Wigan will be willing to accept their offer for the Senegalese star.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 7 Jul 2007

Kelly finally set for Rams

Derby are finally set to appoint David Kelly as their assistant manager next week.

Rams boss Billy Davies was at loggerheads with the club over their failure to appoint Kelly last season.

Davies spent the whole of last term without an assistant and he was keen to have a number two beside him as he prepares for life back in the top flight.

Kelly and Davies worked together at Preston during the Scot's spell in charge at Deepdale, but a dispute with Preston chairman Derek Shaw prevented the pair being reunited at Derby.

However, the impasse has now ended allowing Kelly to join Davies at Pride Park.

The former Republic of Ireland international will join Colin Miller and Craig Brown in a new-look backroom team at the Premier League new boys.

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 7 Jul 2007

Gilberto hits back at Drogba

Gilberto Silva has blasted Didier Drogba for dismissing Arsenal's title hopes in the wake of Thierry Henry's departure.

The new Arsenal captain believes Drogba is being disrespectful to the Gunners by suggesting they will not be able to mount a title challenge without Henry.

Gilberto has hit back at Drogba aiming a swipe at Chelsea's failure to win the Premier League last season.

"So Drogba said we're already out of the title race, did he? Well, let's wait and see what happens," Gilberto told The Sun.

"What I do know is last season Chelsea spent a fortune on new signings and still couldn't beat Arsenal once in the league.

"They didn't defend their title either, so I think Drogba is talking a little bit too much."

Gilberto also welcomed Arsenal's move for Croatian international Eduardo da Silva and he is confident the striker will do well at Emirates Stadium next season.

"We played against him in the Champions League. He appears to be a good player and a great striker but we'll have to see how he settles in and adapts to English football," added Gilberto.

"I think he could do well. It will also be excellent to have someone in the team who speaks Portuguese.

"We'll lose a heck of a lot without Henry. He was our main player, the captain, the top scorer.

"It's true that replacing him will be no simple task. But we can't go through the kind of spell as we did when Patrick Vieira went to Italy.

"He was the leader of the squad and it took us time to adapt to playing without him. We don't want that again."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 7 Jul 2007

Gerrard: The future's bright

Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard is confident the club are heading in the right direction under American owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks.

The American duo kept their promise to invest heavily in the transfer market by paying a club record £20million fee for Fernando Torres earlier this week.

Gerrard has been impressed by Gillett and Hicks and he has praised them for dipping into their pockets to finance Rafa Benitez's rebuilding plans.

"[By handing Benitez] the finance to strengthen, we can go from a good team to a great team," Gerrard writes in the paperback update of his autobiography which has been serialised in the Daily Telegraph.

Gerrard also praised Reds boss Rafa Benitez for guiding them to the UEFA Champions League final last season, but admitted his surprise at some his tactical decisions in the 2-1 defeat to Milan.

The England international felt Benitez left it too late to bring on substitute Peter Crouch as Liverpool went chasing the game in the second half.

"Rafa came up with the right game-plan in Athens," said Gerrard, referring to the 4-5-1 formation.

"In the second half (with Liverpool losing 1-0), I expected some subs sharpish.

"I trust Rafa. The manager clearly had belief in the players who were on, but I was surprised Crouchy did not come on earlier. Not just Crouchy, any sub. We needed something different."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 7 Jul 2007

Tevez 'agrees' United deal

Carlos Tevez's representatives claim the West Ham striker has agreed personal terms with Manchester United.

The Hammers attempted to play down talk of the Argentina international moving to Old Trafford on Friday evening by stating that they expect him to be part of their preparations for the new season.

West Ham chairman Eggert Magnusson also insisted that the Upton Park club would have to agree to let Tevez leave this summer.

But in response, Tevez's agent Kia Joorabchian says the former Corinthians ace has already been given permission to talk to other clubs and discussions have taken place with United.

Joorabchian claims the 23-year-old has now agreed a deal which should see him join the Premier League champions in the coming days.

"The circumstances surrounding Carlos Tevez's relationship with West Ham have been well documented in the media and footballing world," said a statement from Joorabchian's lawyers.

"We confirm that Carlos Tevez has, with the knowledge and permission of West Ham United Football Club, been in discussions with other clubs.

"Subsequently, personal terms have now been agreed with Manchester United Football Club.

"Carlos Tevez's representatives will work during the course of next week so that a move to Manchester United can be finalised as quickly as possible.

"The process for finalising the player's registration with Manchester United will be undertaken in accordance with appropriate procedures."

Manchester United have confirmed they have held talks with Tevez, and say they were given permission to do so.

"We have acted in good faith," said a United spokesman. "Carlos Tevez was given permission to speak to us and do a deal."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Andrew Scurr - Created on 6 Jul 2007

Reds seal Torres signing

Liverpool have completed the signing of Fernando Torres from Atletico Madrid in a club record deal.

The Spanish international has signed a six-year deal at Anfield after agreeing personal terms and passing a medical.

Liverpool have paid a club record £20million to land the highly-rated forward.

Torres flew back to Madrid for a press conference earlier on Wednesday to say goodbye to the Atletico faithful, before flying back to England to be unveiled as a Liverpool player.

Speaking through an interpreter, Torres spoke of his delight at moving to Liverpool.

"I'm very happy to be joining the club," he told Sky Sports News. "It is a fantastic opportunity to be joining one of the best clubs in Europe with a fantastic history.

"You don't get opportunities like this every day of your life.

"I will be working from day one and getting to know my team-mates more closely.

"You have to make sure you are in a position to make choices difficult for the manager as all my team-mates here are of the highest quality.

"Liverpool are the type of club that aspire to win trophies and I will certainly be trying my hardest and doing my little bit to try to improve that record, improve our chances and improve the team a little."

When quizzed on his relationship with his new manager Rafa Benitez, Torres conceded he is looking forward to working alongside his compatriot.

"It was important, the confidence shown in me by him," he added.

"When you hear a club like Liverpool is interested in you it is something that fills you with a lot of surprise and a lot of pride."

Torres arrives in English football with a hefty price-tag weighing on his shoulders, but the Spanish international is determined not be preoccupied by what Liverpool have paid to secure his services.

"The figures that have been mentioned are bound to bring an added pressure, but when you sign for a club like Liverpool you've got to bear pressure.

"I know the demands are high but I believe in hard work and think I can work hard to fulfil those expectations."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 4 Jul 2007

Blades ponder fresh appeal

Sheffield United may launch an appeal in the High Court after failing in their last bid to get reinstated to the Premier League.

An independent arbitration panel ruled this week that the FA Premier League was correct in its decision to fine West Ham over the Carlos Tevez affair rather than dock points, which would have seen The Hammers relegated in place of The Blades.

But Sheffield United may now appeal that the arbitration panel made an error in law when considering a previous judgement.

The club had an appeal to set up a new disciplinary commission dismissed on Tuesday, and could now take recourse in the High Court.

The Premier League has claimed the appeal process has already started, but a Sheffield United spokesman insists the club is just gauging the situation at this stage.

A Premier League spokesman said: "The Premier League has just been advised by our legal team that Sheffield United have launched an appeal in the High Court under Section 69(2)(b) of the Arbitration Act 1996 against the award of our arbitration panel yesterday under Section S of our Rules.

"Our legal team inform us that this is a very narrow window of appeal where Sheffield United are claiming that the arbitration panel under Sir Philip Otton made an error in law by failing to send back the original decision to the independent disciplinary commission for reconsideration.

"It is a matter of record that the Premier League has acted at all times in accordance with our rule book and procedures, as such we expect this matter to be expedited as quickly as possible and, again, we will not be altering any plans for next season."

A Sheffield United spokesman has since countered: "We have applied to find out if we can lodge an appeal through the civil courts. This involves speaking to a judge and is a technical process.

"We may lodge an appeal as a result but we may not. We are still going through the process."

Source : www.slysports.com
By Robin Hackett - Created on 4 Jul 2007

Lyon 'considering' Malouda bid

Lyon are weighing up a 'strong offer' from Chelsea for Florent Malouda, a spokesman for the French club has revealed.

The Blues have been linked with Malouda for some time and the midfielder announced on Tuesday that he was confident a deal would go through.

He claimed he had agreed terms with Chelsea after speaking with Jose Mourinho and said Lyon were ready to let him go.

Lyon chairman Jean-Michel Aulas responded by saying Chelsea 'may not have the desire or the means' to push trough a deal, but they are now considering an improved bid.

"Chelsea have come back with a strong offer and Jean-Michel Aulas could meet a Chelsea official in the next few hours," the spokesman said.

Malouda, who was voted Ligue 1 player of the year last season, is understood to have left Lyon's training camp in the French Alps.

Reports in the French press suggest Chelsea have lodged an offer of €18.5million (£12.5million).

Source : www.skysports.com
By Lewis Rutledge - Created on 4 Jul 2007

Defoe happy at Spurs

Jermain Defoe has moved to play down reports he is unsettled at Tottenham.

Reports have circulated that Defoe was considering his future at White Hart Lane following the recent arrival of Darren Bent from Charlton.

England international Defoe has rejected the rumours and says he is happy to fight for his place in Martin Jol's plans as he prepares for the coming season.

In a statement issued to skysports.com, Defoe said: "I'm really excited about the new season and prospect of another campaign in Europe.

"We have made some good signings and our squad is now stronger and even better equipped to compete in all competitions.

"We have competition for places in all positions and that can only be good for the team."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 4 Jul 2007

Tuncay completes Boro move

Tuncay's transfer to Middlesbrough has been finalised after he was granted a work permit.

The Turkey international agreed a four-year deal with Boro last month and then returned to his native country to wait for his application to be processed.

He is now expected to join up with his new team-mates in time to fly out for a pre-season tour of Austria.

Tuncay joins on a free transfer following the expiration of his contract at Fenerbahce.

Gareth Southgate has also brought in Jeremie Aliadier this summer and completed the permanent signing of Jonathan Woodgate, but he still wants his squad to have greater strength in depth.

"All I can say is we are actively looking to improve the team and improve the squad," said the Boro manager.

"We have been watching several different players in different positions.

"Obviously at right-full-back we have lost Abel Xavier and Stuart Parnaby, and Tony McMahon is still recovering from a broken leg, so we are very short of cover and competition in that position, although we have some good youngsters coming through.

"I still feel we need to add a couple of players. We are looking very much to do that over the coming weeks, and the sooner we can get them in, the better.

"But it is great to have, with Jonathan, three new signings in place already, and to know we have built already on what we did last season."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Lewis Rutledge - Created on 4 Jul 2007

Benitez hints at Bellamy exit

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has admitted Craig Bellamy could be leaving the club.

Bellamy's future has been the subject of speculation for some time with a number of clubs believed to keen on signing the Welsh international.

The former Newcastle striker struggled to hold down a place in Benitez's side last season and the arrival of Fernando Torres has pushed Bellamy further down the pecking order at Anfield.

Benitez admitted a number of clubs have expressed an interest in Bellamy, but he insists Peter Crouch will be going nowhere.

Asked if Bellamy will be leaving, Benitez said: "Possibly. We have some clubs asking about him and it's a possibility.

"The only thing I can say is that Crouch will be staying with us. I have said to Crouch that he must fight for his position and he will stay with us."

Benitez also played down rumours linking him with a move for Manchester United defender Gabriel Heinze.

The Spaniard says he is looking at bringing in wide players rather than defenders.

"Really we are working with wingers," added Benitez. "People can talk about a lot of things and a lot of names but we're working on wingers."

Source : www.skysports.com
By Peter ORourke - Created on 4 Jul 2007