English Barclays Premiership 2007/2008

Scholes: I stopped enjoying it

2007-07-23T01:18:00.001+07:00

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

2007-07-23T01:16:00.001+07:00

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

2007-07-23T01:15:00.001+07:00

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

2007-07-19T01:19:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-18T18:45:00.002+07:00

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

2007-07-18T18:45:00.001+07:00

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

2007-07-18T18:42:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-18T18:40:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-18T18:35:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-18T18:31:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-18T11:43:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-18T11:29:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-18T11:28:00.001+07:00

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

2007-07-18T11:26:00.001+07:00

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

2007-07-18T11:24:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-18T01:49:00.001+07:00

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

2007-07-18T01:48:00.001+07:00

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

2007-07-18T01:47:00.001+07:00

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

2007-07-18T01:21:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-18T01:16:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-17T15:55:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-17T15:13:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-17T15:10:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-17T15:09:00.002+07:00

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

2007-07-17T15:09:00.001+07:00

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

2007-07-17T15:07:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-17T12:43:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-17T12:37:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-17T12:30:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-17T12:29:00.001+07:00

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

2007-07-17T12:28:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-17T12:27:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-17T12:24:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-17T01:08:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-17T01:07:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-17T01:06:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-17T01:05:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-17T01:04:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-17T01:02:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-17T01:01:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-17T00:50:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-17T00:49:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-17T00:48:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-17T00:47:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-17T00:46:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-17T00:45:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-17T00:43:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-17T00:14:00.001+07:00

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

2007-07-17T00:13:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-17T00:06:00.002+07:00

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

2007-07-17T00:06:00.001+07:00

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

2007-07-17T00:05:00.001+07:00

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

2007-07-17T00:03:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-16T11:19:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-16T11:17:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-16T11:14:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-16T11:05:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-16T11:01:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-16T10:49:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-16T10:47:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-16T10:46:00.001+07:00

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

2007-07-16T10:45:00.001+07:00

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

2007-07-16T01:57:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-16T01:53:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-15T00:53:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-15T00:50:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-15T00:49:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-15T00:46:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-15T00:45:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-15T00:42:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-15T00:41:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-15T00:40:00.001+07:00

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

2007-07-15T00:37:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-15T00:36:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-15T00:35:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-15T00:33:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-15T00:32:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-15T00:30:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-15T00:27:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-15T00:26:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-15T00:25:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-15T00:24:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-15T00:23:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-15T00:21:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-15T00:20:00.001+07:00

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

2007-07-15T00:17:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-15T00:16:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-15T00:15:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-15T00:11:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-15T00:10:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-15T00:09:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-15T00:07:00.001+07:00

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

2007-07-15T00:05:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-15T00:04:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-15T00:02:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-14T23:56:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-14T13:25:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-14T13:24:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-14T13:23:00.000+07:00

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

2007-07-14T13:20:00.000+07:00

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