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Archive soccer news from around the world

New Ridsdale successor says future sales a last resort (Mar 31, 2003)

New Leeds United boss John McKenzie refused to rule out further sales to help balance the books at the English Premiership club. . . . more . . .

Derby look to Burley to win relegation battle (Mar 31, 2003)

English First Division strugglers Derby County appointed George Burley as interim manager in place of suspended manager John Gregory. . . . more . . .

Flawed Diouf favoured to remain pride of Africa (Mar 31, 2003)

Senegal striker El Hadji Diouf seems set to remain African Footballer of the Year when the result of the 2002 poll is announced. . . . more . . .

Slashed admission prices bring Napoli fans flooding back (Mar 31, 2003)

Fallen Italian giants Napoli are expecting a 70,000 capacity crowd for their second division match at home to Vicenza after the club's directors decided to lower admission prices. . . . more . . .

England boost as Campbell declares himself fit for Turkey (Mar 31, 2003)

England's Euro 2004 qualifying chances were given a huge boost when Arsenal centre-back Sol Campbell declared himself fit to face Turkey in Wednesday's crucial qualifier. . . . more . . .

Rivaldo dismisses talk of Milan departure (Mar 31, 2003)

Brazilian World Cup winner Rivaldo has moved quickly to dismiss talk that he wants to leave AC Milan. . . . more . . .

Maldini extends Milan contract (Mar 31, 2003)

AC Milan defender Paolo Maldini has signed a one-year extension to his existing contract, the Italian Serie A club confirmed. . . . more . . .

Eriksson promises improved display from England (Mar 31, 2003)

England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson, hopeful Sol Campbell and Emile Heskey will prove their fitness, has promised a better display for the Euro 2004 qualifier against Turkey. . . . more . . .

Beckham tells England only win will do (Mar 31, 2003)

England skipper David Beckham has warned his team-mates that nothing less than a win will do in Wednesday's Euro 2004 qualifying crunch with Turkey. . . . more . . .

Under-fire Leeds boss Risdale quits (Mar 31, 2003)

Under-fire Leeds United chairman Peter Ridsdale resigned, the listed English Premiership club told the London Stock Exchange. . . . more . . .

Under-fire Leeds chairman Ridsdale quits (Mar 31, 2003)

Leeds United parted company with their under-fire chairman Peter Ridsdale as the English Premiership side geared up to fight off relegation. . . . more . . .

Ukraine and Spain share points in Kiev (Mar 31, 2003)

Spain remained on top of the 2004 European championship qualifying Group Six after a 2-2 draw with hosts Ukraine. . . . more . . .

Fulham rule out O'Leary for manager's job (Mar 31, 2003)

English Premiership side Fulham said that they had ruled out former Leeds boss David O'Leary as a successor to Jean Tigana. . . . more . . .

Bolton's Frandsen confident ahead of relegation battle (Mar 31, 2003)

Veteran Bolton midfielder Per Frandsen is convinced the club will win their Premier League survival fight. . . . more . . .

Serginho boost for Milan (Mar 31, 2003)

AC Milan's Serginho has recovered from a knee injury and is available for this weekend's tricky league match away to fifth-placed Parma, the club has confirmed. . . . more . . .

Russia wants Georgia match switched to neutral ground (Mar 31, 2003)

Russia's football union chief said Monday he has asked UEFA to switch the venue of Russia's Euro 2004 qualifier with Georgia to a neutral venue because of instability in the former Soviet republic. . . . more . . .

Vogts gags Scotland backchat (Mar 31, 2003)

Scotland manager Berti Vogts has told his players to cut out the backchat to referees in their bid to qualify for the Euro 2004 finals. . . . more . . .

Trapattoni targets Welsh as Italy bounce back (Mar 31, 2003)

Italy coach Giovanni Trapattoni believes his side can catch Group Nine leaders Wales and qualify automatically for next year's European championships in Portugal. . . . more . . .

Chilavert ponders Costa Rica move (Mar 30, 2003)

Paraguayan international goalkeeper Jose Luis Chilavert is considering a move to a top Costa Rican club. . . . more . . .

Chelsea face wait on Gudjohnsen (Mar 30, 2003)

Chelsea are waiting on the fitness of Icelandic striker Eidur Gudjohnsen after he limped off in the 2-1 Euro 2004 qualifier defeat by Scotland. . . . more . . .

Portuguese hark back to 1966 and all that (Mar 30, 2003)

There was no Eusebio to lead the charge but Euro 2004 hosts Portugal harked back to 1966 in beating Brazil for the first time since that golden age in Saturday's friendly here. . . . more . . .

Germany run out of ideas as Euro battle hots up (Mar 30, 2003)

World Cup runners-up they may be but Germany are in a battle to reach the Euro 2004 finals following Saturday's 1-1 home draw against Lithuania which allowed Scotland to move top of their group. . . . more . . .

O'Leary hints at interest in Fulham (Mar 30, 2003)

Former Leeds boss David O'Leary has hinted he would be interested in replacing Jean Tigana at Fulham. . . . more . . .

Bad boy Bellamy redeems himself in quickfire style (Mar 30, 2003)

Craig Bellamy has made a habit of bouncing from villain to hero throughout his career but 13 seconds is quick going even by his standards. . . . more . . .

Knife incident mars Ireland win (Mar 30, 2003)

Ireland midfielder Kevin Kilbane said he was hit on the arm by an open pen-knife during the 2-1 Euro 2004 win over Georgia in Yerevan. . . . more . . .

Hitzfeld to extend Bayern deal to 2005: Rummenigge (Mar 30, 2003)

Bayern Munich coach Ottmar Hitzfeld is to extend his deal with the club by a year to 2005, club president Karl-Heinz Rummenigge told Bild am Sonntag weekly. . . . more . . .

Schmeichel still undecided about City extension (Mar 29, 2003)

Peter Schmeichel has still not made up his mind about whether to extend his Manchester City contract beyond the summer. . . . more . . .

Vieri on target twice to put Italy back on track (Mar 29, 2003)

A resurgent Italy boosted their hopes of qualifying for next year's European championships in Portugal after defeating Group Nine rivals Finland 2-0. . . . more . . .

Bad boy 'Mido' comes good for Egypt (Mar 29, 2003)

Egypt clawed back into contention for a place at the 2004 African Nations Cup with a 1-0 win in Mauritius. . . . more . . .

Bertie wants Scots to be on song (Mar 29, 2003)

Scotland manager Bertie Vogts has told his players to sing for their supper if they want to taste success. . . . more . . .

England do the bare minimum as rampant Wales streak on (Mar 29, 2003)

England did the bare minimum in beating tiny Liechtenstein 2-0 to stay in the hunt for a place in the finals of Euro 2004. . . . more . . .

Czech mate as Dutch share honours (Mar 29, 2003)

A Ruud van Nistelrooy header on the stroke of half-time kept the Netherlands on top of Group Three but the home side had to share the honours with a 1-1 European qualifer draw against the Czech Republic. . . . more . . .

Gazza notches debut goal to open Chinese adventure (Mar 29, 2003)

Former England international Paul Gascoigne got his new second division Chinese club Gansu Tianma off to a roaring start in its league opener, scoring a spectacular goal in a 2-0 win over Qingdao Hailifeng. . . . more . . .

Ukraine and Spain share points in Kiev (Mar 29, 2003)

Spain remained on top of the 2004 European championship qualifying Group Six after a 2-2 draw with hosts Ukraine. . . . more . . .

Northern Irish drought extended with loss to Armenia (Mar 29, 2003)

Northern Ireland all but waved farewell to their slender chances of qualifying for Euro 2004 when they lost their Group Six encounter to Armenia 1-0. . . . more . . .

South Korea, Colombia draw in soccer friendly (Mar 29, 2003)

South Korea were held to a goalless draw by Colombia in a scrappy football friendly at the World cup stadium. . . . more . . .

'Talisman' Gerrard discounts danger of Macedonia repeat (Mar 28, 2003)

Liverpool's England midfielder Steven Gerrard is hoping to remains a talisman for his country ahead of Saturday's Euro 2004 qualifier away to Liechtenstein. . . . more . . .

Banana skin alert follows terror alert for England (Mar 28, 2003)

Against the gloomy backdrop of war in Iraq football will creep back towards centre stage for a raft of crucial Euro 2004 qualifiers. . . . more . . .

Spurs say Hoddle is safe (Mar 28, 2003)

Tottenham insisted that reports coach Glenn Hoddle might be forced out of White Hart Lane in the summer were unfounded. . . . more . . .

Welsh put faith in Edwards (Mar 28, 2003)

Wales are to throw 20-year-old Aston Villa defender Rob Edwards into the deep end on Saturday in their Euro 2004 qualifier with Azerbaijan. . . . more . . .

Italy desperate to avoid Finnish fiasco (Mar 28, 2003)

Italy's flickering hopes of qualifying for the 2004 European championships could be virtually extinguished should they trip up at home to Finland. . . . more . . .

Season over for Metzelder (Mar 28, 2003)

German international defender Christoph Metzelder will be out for the rest of the season because of an ankle injury which requires surgery, his team Dortmund said Friday. . . . more . . .

Real Madrid blow cold on Beckham bid (Mar 28, 2003)

Spanish giants Real Madrid says there is little likelihood of them making a reported 40 million pound (60 million dollar) bid for Manchester United star David Beckham. . . . more . . .

Leeds keeper dismisses Arsenal move (Mar 28, 2003)

Leeds goalkeeper Paul Robinson has dismissed speculation linking him with a potential big-money move to Arsenal this summer. . . . more . . .

Keane to miss Georgia game (Mar 28, 2003)

Robbie Keane is out of the Republic of Ireland's Euro 2004 qualifier against Georgia on Saturday night. . . . more . . .

Giggs calls on Welsh to stay steady (Mar 28, 2003)

Ryan Giggs has warned his Wales team-mates not to blow their big chance as they bid to reach the Euro 2004 finals next summer. . . . more . . .

Spanish league ratifies Barca's two-match Nou Camp ban (Mar 28, 2003)

The Spanish Football Federation ratified a two-match ban handed down to Barcelona, who must play two matches behind closed doors at their Nou Camp stadium following serious crowd trouble last year. . . . more . . .

Kenny set to lead Ireland against Georgia (Mar 28, 2003)

Republic of Ireland manager Brian Kerr is set to name Kenny Cunningham as his captain for Saturday's Euro 2004 qualifier against Georgia in Tbilisi. . . . more . . .

Captain's armband won't change Zidane's style (Mar 28, 2003)

Real Madrid midfielder Zinedine Zidane said he will not change his style after being handed the captain's armband for Saturday's Euro 2004 qualifier against Malta. . . . more . . .

Kewell pays tribute to Venables (Mar 28, 2003)

Leeds midfielder Harry Kewell paid tribute to former Elland Road boss Terry Venables as the "best manager" he has ever played under. . . . more . . .

Paul Gascoigne wants to play Saturday for his Chinese club (Mar 28, 2003)

The elder statesman of British football Paul Gascoigne has stated he wants to play for the first time for the second division Chinese club Gansu Tianma, which he joined two months ago. . . . more . . .

Captain Zidane to lead France (Mar 27, 2003)

Real Madrid midfielder Zinedine Zidane will captain France in the Euro 2004 qualifiers against Malta and Israel . . . . more . . .

Charlton snap up Iceland defender (Mar 27, 2003)

Charlton completed the 900,000-pound signing of Ipswich's Icelandic international defender Hermann Hreidarsson. . . . more . . .

Ivory Coast prepare for Burundi clash (Mar 27, 2003)

Former Africa champions Ivory Coast have set up camp in Kenya to prepare for their African Nations Cup qualifier against Burundi in Bujumbura. . . . more . . .

Ronaldo fears "Big Phil" in Portugal friendly (Mar 27, 2003)

Brazilian star Ronaldo has said Brazil is in for a rough ride when it faces Portugal in a friendly on Saturday now that his former boss Luiz Filipe Scolari is in charge of the Portuguese side. . . . more . . .

Collins rules himself out of Fulham job (Mar 27, 2003)

Fulham's former Scotland midfielder John Collins ruled himself out of the race to succeed Jean Tigana as manager of the London club - just hours after his agent suggested he would be interested. . . . more . . .

Kahn nabbed for speeding (Mar 27, 2003)

Troubled German international captain Oliver Kahn has been stripped of his driving licence for two months for speeding, Munich daily Abendzeitung reported in their Friday edition. . . . more . . .

Arsenal boss warns French stars to lower pay demands (Mar 27, 2003)

Arsenal chairman Peter Hill-Wood says top earners like Patrick Vieira and Robert Pires would be allowed to leave if they do not lower their wage demands. . . . more . . .

Wolfman Miller desperate to shake off promising youngster tag (Mar 27, 2003)

Kenny Miller, Wolves' 21-goal striker who is tipped to lead Scotland's attack against Iceland on Saturday, admits he hates nothing more than being described as a "promising youngster." . . . more . . .

Ankle injury set to keep Pires sidelined for French (Mar 27, 2003)

An ankle knock picked up in Arsenal's FA Cup win over Chelsea is set to keep midfielder Robert Pires out of France's home Euro 20004 qualifier on Saturday against Malta. . . . more . . .

Villa's Dublin facing three-match ban (Mar 27, 2003)

Aston Villa striker Dion Dublin is facing another three-match ban after being hit with two Football Association charges over his conduct in the recent Birmingham derby. . . . more . . .

Arsenal's Jeffers hits back at Osgood lashing (Mar 27, 2003)

Arsenal striker Francis Jeffers has hit back at former Chelsea star Peter Osgood who called him the biggest cheat he had ever seen. . . . more . . .

Kaiserslautern have points deducted, fined for "irregularities" (Mar 27, 2003)

The German football league(DFL) fined first division strugglers Kaiserslautern 125,000 euros (133,518 dollars) and deducted the club three points for what it called "irregularities in documents submitted to obtain a licence." . . . more . . .

Djalminha to quit Austria Vienna at season's end (Mar 27, 2003)

Austrian first division leader's Austria Vienna said they will not be renewing the contract of Brazilian midfielder Djalminha Feitosa at season's end. . . . more . . .

Miccoli tips Cosmi for big club move (Mar 27, 2003)

Perugia striker Fabrizio Miccoli believes team coach Serse Cosmi will not be out of his depth should he move to a bigger Serie A club this summer. . . . more . . .

Wenger chases Chelsea's Terry to bolster defence (Mar 27, 2003)

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger was reported to be ready to offer Chelsea 12 million pounds (18 million dollars) for England defender John Terry. . . . more . . .

Collins in for Fulham job (Mar 27, 2003)

Former Scotland midfielder John Collins has expressed tentative interest in succeeding Jean Tigana as manager of Fulham. . . . more . . .

Bayern Munich and Dortmund vie for Klose (Mar 27, 2003)

Kaiserslautern's German international striker Miroslav Klose revealed he has received offers from Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund. . . . more . . .

Fortune closes in on fitness and new United deal (Mar 27, 2003)

Quinton Fortune is on track to be fit for the climax of Manchester United's Premiership and Champions League campaigns and is hoping he can land himself a new deal at Old Trafford. . . . more . . .

Iceland ace vows to put Scots out in the cold (Mar 27, 2003)

Iceland's Chelsea striker Eidur Gudjohnsen has warned Scotland he is in the mood to derail their Euro 2004 campaign at Hampden Park. . . . more . . .

Portugal-Macedonia friendly switched to Lausanne (Mar 26, 2003)

Portugal's friendly international football match with Macedonia scheduled for Geneva on April 2 has been switched to Lausanne on the same day because of security fears concerning the travelling fans, Lausanne Sports have announced. . . . more . . .

Birmingham lose Morrison for survival battle (Mar 26, 2003)

Birmingham's Premiership survival campaign was dealt a severe blow when striker Clinton Morrison ruled himself out of action for the remainder of the season. . . . more . . .

O'Leary tops betting for Fulham job (Mar 26, 2003)

Former Leeds boss David O'Leary has been installed as the early favourite to replace Jean Tigana at Fulham with veteran player John Collins, Louis Van Gaal and former Japan coach Philippe Troussier also touted as potential candidates. . . . more . . .

Fulham manager Tigana to leave (Mar 26, 2003)

English Premiership club Fulham said French manager Jean Tigana will leave in the summer. . . . more . . .

Al Fayed pulls the plug on Tigana (Mar 26, 2003)

Fulham announced they would not be renewing manager Jean Tigana's contract this summer. . . . more . . .

Serbia v Wales Euro qualifier postponed (Mar 26, 2003)

The Euro 2004 Group Nine qualifier between Wales and Serbia and Montenegro scheduled for Belgrade on April 2 has been postponed until August 20, European football's governing body UEFA said. . . . more . . .

Premiership giants Liverpool to play Hong Kong friendly in July (Mar 26, 2003)

English premiership giants Liverpool annnounced they will play a pre-season friendly match against Hong Kong on July 27 at Hong Kong Stadium. . . . more . . .

Wilmots takes over from sacked Neubarth (Mar 26, 2003)

Schalke 04's former Belgium football captain Marc Wilmots has taken over as player-coach of the German outfit until season's end following the sacking of coach Frank Neubarth. . . . more . . .

Campbell set to miss England match (Mar 26, 2003)

Arsenal defender Sol Campbell is set to miss England's Euro 2004 qualifier with Liechtenstein on Saturday but is expected to be fit for World Cup semi-finalists Turkey. . . . more . . .

Arsenal demand inquiry into Henry attack (Mar 26, 2003)

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has demanded a Football Association inquiry after Thierry Henry was hit by a missile thrown by Chelsea fans for the second time in 17 days. . . . more . . .

2004 Champions League final set for Gelsenkirchen (Mar 26, 2003)

The 2004 Champions League football final will take place in the west German city of Gelsenkirchen, while the UEFA Cup final will be played in Gothenburg, Sweden, European football's governing body UEFA's Executive Committee have agreed during their two-day meeting here. . . . more . . .

Real Madrid plan Beckham bid (Mar 26, 2003)

Spanish giants Real Madrid were reported to be ready to make a 40 million pound (60 million dollar) bid for Manchester United star David Beckham. . . . more . . .

Kewell to stay with Leeds (Mar 26, 2003)

Despite the club's abysmal season Leeds striker Harry Kewell is set to stay put at Elland Road and sign a new deal in the next few weeks, his agent said. . . . more . . .

Ankle injury to keep Pires sidelined for French (Mar 26, 2003)

An ankle knock picked up in Arsenal's FA Cup win over Chelsea is set to keep midfielder Robert Pires out of France's home Euro 20004 qualifier on Saturday against Malta. . . . more . . .

Lambert ready to soldier on to Euro finals (Mar 26, 2003)

Scotland captain Paul Lambert is ready to extend his international career for an extra year if Berti Vogts' side are on track to make it to the Euro 2004 finals in Portugal. . . . more . . .

United boss Ferguson takes a break (Mar 26, 2003)

Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson, with most of his star players involved in weekend internationals, has taken a sunshine break in Spain. . . . more . . .

Georgia confident of beating Ireland (Mar 26, 2003)

Georgia's Alexander Chivadze has predicted that his side were set to improve their position in the 2004 European championship Group 10 table by beating Ireland on Saturday. . . . more . . .

Karembeu suspended again (Mar 26, 2003)

Olympiakos' French World Cup winner Christian Karembeu was suspended for one match by the disciplinary committee of the Hellenic Football Federation (HFF) over a violent incident in a match last month which cost him a red card. . . . more . . .

Terry holds fire on new Chelsea deal (Mar 26, 2003)

Chelsea defender John Terry, who hopes to make his England debut in Saturday's Euro 2004 qualifier in Liechtenstein, is holding out for a big pay rise before he will sign a new contract, it emerged. . . . more . . .

Welsh striker Bellamy faces court hearing (Mar 26, 2003)

Welsh striker Craig Bellamy has been summonsed to appear in court over his alleged racist outburst at a Cardiff nightclub. . . . more . . .

Passion play is Reid's wish for Leeds (Mar 26, 2003)

Leeds coach Peter Reid is calling for his new side to show more passion as they fight the drop from the English Premiership. . . . more . . .

England boss Eriksson wary of Liechtenstein part-timers (Mar 25, 2003)

England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson refuses to write off part-timers Liechtenstein in Saturday's David versus Goliath Euro 2004 qualifier. . . . more . . .

Juve have the edge in tight Italian title race (Mar 25, 2003)

With eight games to go and just five points separating the top three teams, the race for the Italian title promises to be as close as last season's when it was decided on the final day. . . . more . . .

Barca given two-match Nou Camp ban for Figo attack (Mar 25, 2003)

Barcelona are considering whether to appeal over an order to shut their fabled Nou Camp stadium for two matches following serious crowd trouble last year. . . . more . . .

UEFA director general Aigner to stand down (Mar 25, 2003)

UEFA director general Gerhard Aigner announced that he planned to retire at the end of the year. . . . more . . .

United target Turkish striker Kahveci: media (Mar 25, 2003)

Manchester United are closing in on Real Sociedad's Turkish striker Nihat Kahveci, local radio reported here. . . . more . . .

Bellamy on probation as Newcastle reprimand him (Mar 25, 2003)

Welsh striker Craig Bellamy was reprimanded by his Premiership club Newcastle over being drunk and disorderly and warned that any repeat behaviour could have serious consequences for him. . . . more . . .

English clubs set for club-versus-country battle (Mar 25, 2003)

England's biggest football clubs are prepared to ban their foreign stars from playing internationals. . . . more . . .

French coach mulls over captaincy (Mar 25, 2003)

France coach Jacques Santini refuses to be rushed into picking a replacement captain for Saturday's Euro 2004 qualifier against Group 1 minnows Malta. . . . more . . .

Man from Mars set to knock Arsenal off orbit (Mar 25, 2003)

Chelsea manager Claudio Ranieri believes his tough central defender John Terry has what it takes to handle Arsenal's French firepower in Tuesday's FA Cup quarter-final replay. . . . more . . .

Vieira eyeing French captain's job (Mar 25, 2003)

Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira says he would be only too happy to take over the stewardship of France for the upcoming Euro 2004 qualifiers in the absence of the injured Marcel Desailly. . . . more . . .

Gunners give Chelsea the Blues to stay on course for double (Mar 25, 2003)

Arsenal took another step towards an historic back-to-back domestic double as they beat Chelsea 3-1 at Stamford Bridge in the FA Cup quarter-final replay. . . . more . . .

Deco hits back at critics of Scolari's selection policy (Mar 25, 2003)

FC Porto's Brazilian midfielder Deco insisted he felt just as Portuguese as Brazilian in a clear dig at critics of Portugal coach Luis Felipe Scolari's policy of selecting players like Deco who have adopted Portuguese citizenship. . . . more . . .

Vialli dreaming of Italian job (Mar 25, 2003)

Former Chelsea and Watford manager Gianluca Vialli has said he would jump at the chance of becoming coach of either Italy or his old club Juventus. . . . more . . .

Denilson set to miss rest of season (Mar 25, 2003)

Brazilian World Cup winning midfielder Denilson looks set to miss the rest of the season after his Spanish First Division club Real Betis revealed he has to undergo a right knee operation. . . . more . . .

England get green light for Liechtenstein clash (Mar 24, 2003)

England's Euro 2004 qualifer with Liechtenstein is to go ahead as planned on Saturday it was revealed by the Football Association(FA). . . . more . . .

Confederations Cup gets FIFA all-clear (Mar 24, 2003)

International football authorities cleared up doubts Monday over whether the Confederations Cup would go ahead in June in France. . . . more . . .

Bellamy embroiled in racial abuse allegations (Mar 24, 2003)

Wales's build-up to Saturday's Euro 2004 Group Nine qualifier with Azerbaijan were hit by claims that star striker Craig Bellamy is at the centre of allegations of racial abuse at a nightclub here. . . . more . . .

Rooney's Highbury showing woos Eriksson (Mar 24, 2003)

England boss Sven Goran Eriksson said it was Wayne Rooney's mature showing for Everton against Arsenal at Highbury on Sunday that prompted his inclusion in his Euro 2004 qualifier squad to face Liechtenstein and Turkey. . . . more . . .

Arsenal to give star duo late fitness tests (Mar 24, 2003)

Arsenal are set to give fitness tests to England central defender Sol Campbell and French midfielder Patrick Vieira just hours ahead of their FA Cup quarter-final replay with Chelsea. . . . more . . .

Inter president backs under-fire Cuper (Mar 24, 2003)

Inter Milan president Massimo Moratti dismissed media reports that he is looking to replace his coach Hector Cuper. . . . more . . .

Eriksson wants green light for Liechtenstein qualifier (Mar 24, 2003)

England coach Sven Goran Eriksson said he had no safety qualms about going ahead with Saturday's sensitive Euro 2004 qualifier in Liechtenstein. . . . more . . .

Tired Gunners face Chelsea challenge (Mar 24, 2003)

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger says he can count on his tired players battling through the pain barrier to beat Chelsea in their FA Cup quarter-final replay. . . . more . . .

Rangers Captain Courageous commits himself to Ibrox (Mar 24, 2003)

Rangers captain Barry Ferguson signed a new five-year contract that will keep him at Ibrox until 2008. . . . more . . .

Vogts calls up seven more players (Mar 24, 2003)

Scotland manager Berti Vogts has called up seven more players to complete his squad for the Euro 2004 qualifiers against Iceland and Lithuania. . . . more . . .

AC Milan's Rui Costa dreams of return to Benfica (Mar 24, 2003)

AC Milan's Portuguese international midfielder Rui Costa has said he would like to return to Lisbon-based Benfica, Portugal's most widely supported club. . . . more . . .

Inter miss out on top spot (Mar 24, 2003)

Inter Milan missed out on the chance to join Serie A title rivals Juventus at the top of Serie A after losing 2-1 at Udinese. . . . more . . .

Timely boost for Inter as Crespo targets Roma clash (Mar 24, 2003)

Inter Milan's Argentine striker Hernan Crespo is expected to make his long-awaited return from injury in the club's next Serie A match at home to AS Roma. . . . more . . .

High-flying Newcastle score with record profits (Mar 24, 2003)

Premiership football club Newcastle United belied the general financial gloom in the English game to announce record operating profits, up by 183 percent. . . . more . . .

Milan back in Italian race - but Bayern's is almost won (Mar 24, 2003)

AC Milan threw themselves back into the Italian title race after defeating league leaders Juventus 2-1 at a sold-out San Siro but Inter Milan failed to take advantage as they slipped to a 2-1 reverse in Udinese. . . . more . . .

Dugarry looks to permanent move to Birmingham (Mar 24, 2003)

French World Cup winner Christophe Dugarry wants to stay at Birmingham on a permanent basis once his loan deal expires in the summer. . . . more . . .

Brazilian sharp shooter threatens Bremen walk-out (Mar 24, 2003)

Werder Bremen's Brazilian striker Ailton threatened to take his silky goalscoring skills elsewhere if the German first division club failed to qualify for Europe. . . . more . . .

Beckham hits out at United rumours (Mar 24, 2003)

England captain David Beckham has slammed rumours of a player rift splitting Manchester United. . . . more . . .

Jay-Jay makes Spurs pay the penalty (Mar 24, 2003)

Bolton's hopes of avoiding relegation received a huge boost as Nigerian star Jay Jay Okocha scored an injury-time penalty to give them a deserved 1-0 victory over a lacklustre Spurs. . . . more . . .

England game in danger as war fears grow (Mar 23, 2003)

England's Euro 2004 qualifier in Liechtenstein on Wednesday is in danger of being postponed over fears for the safety of Sven-Goran Eriksson's men. . . . more . . .

West Ham look to England young guns for Great Escape (Mar 23, 2003)

West Ham manager Glenn Roeder hailed his England youngsters as the key to a 2-0 win over Sunderland that allowed the Hammers to escape the relegation zone for the first time since November. . . . more . . .

Mido has the Midas touch as he makes his mark quickly at Celta (Mar 23, 2003)

Egyptian striker Mido needed little time to settle in at Celta Vigo and took just 19 minutes to score in the Galicians' 2-1 win over Athletic Bilbao. . . . more . . .

Inzaghi strikes to haul Milan back into title race (Mar 23, 2003)

AC Milan threw themselves back into the title race after defeating league leaders Juventus 2-1 at a sold-out San Siro. . . . more . . .

Adriano keeps the heat on Lazio (Mar 23, 2003)

Parma gave their Champions League ambitions a huge boost after beating Lazio 2-1 in Italy's Serie A. . . . more . . .

Arsenal survive Rooney scare to move back to top (Mar 23, 2003)

Arsenal survived an almighty scare at the hands of Everton's teenage rebel Wayne Rooney before returning to the top of the Premiership with a 2-1 win over Everton. . . . more . . .

McCarthy still lives in hope (Mar 23, 2003)

Mick McCarthy was left Sunday pondering what his options are to save Sunderland's place in the Premiership after his first match in charge ended in yet another defeat. . . . more . . .

Ronaldinho focused on PSG future (Mar 23, 2003)

Paris Saint Germain's World Cup winner Ronaldinho played down reports linking him with several top European sides, saying he was focused on his club's battle to win a Champions League slot. . . . more . . .

No relief for Reid as Liverpool plunge Leeds deeper into mire (Mar 23, 2003)

Liverpool bounced back from their UEFA Cup exit and sent Leeds to the brink of the relegation quagmire with an impressive 3-1 win at Anfield. . . . more . . .

O'Neill slams SFA over winter-break (Mar 23, 2003)

Celtic manager Martin O'Neill has slammed the Scottish football authorities for their decision to end the winter-break for the Premier League. . . . more . . .

Derby ends in a frustrating 0-0 draw (Mar 23, 2003)

The Madrid derby between Rayo Vallecano and Atletico Madrid ended 0-0, a result that did neither side any favours. . . . more . . .

Hiddink's Eindhoven on brink of title after win over Ajax (Mar 23, 2003)

Former South Korea coach Guus Hiddink is on the brink of celebrating the Dutch league title with PSV Eindhoven after his men beat arch rivals Ajax 2-0. . . . more . . .

Real Madrid extend their lead after Sociedad self-destruction (Mar 23, 2003)

Real Madid gave themselves some breathing space at the top of the Spanish first division, thanks in part to the self-destruction of second-placed Real Sociedad, and extended their lead to three points after their win over Deportivo La Coruna. . . . more . . .

I was sacked reveals bitter Venables (Mar 23, 2003)

Terry Venables revealed he had been sacked from his post as Leeds United manager and he had not left by mutual agreement as stated originally by the cash-strapped club. . . . more . . .

Keegan offers cash carrot in bid to offload spare players (Mar 23, 2003)

Manchester City manager Kevin Keegan has offered a cash incentive to clubs in the First Division who are interested in taking any of his spare players on loan. . . . more . . .

Chelsea boost European dream (Mar 23, 2003)

Chelsea gave their Champions League ambitions a huge boost with a 5-0 thrashing of woeful Manchester City at Stamford Bridge. . . . more . . .

Quickfire Monaco stay top as Marseille maintain title push (Mar 22, 2003)

Monaco maintained their slender grip in the French title race, cantering past Le Havre 3-0 with all three goals coming in the opening half hour. . . . more . . .

Ruud awakening for Arsenal as Hammers escape drop zone (Mar 22, 2003)

A Ruud van Nistelrooy hat-trick fired Manchester United to a 3-0 win over Fulham that sent Alex Ferguson's side above Arsenal at the top of the Premiership. . . . more . . .

Birmingham put boot into West Brom survival chances (Mar 22, 2003)

A stoppage-time winner from substitute Geoff Horsfield lifted Birmingham to within sight of Premiership survival at the expense of local rivals West Brom, who now looked doomed to the drop. . . . more . . .

Change your mind O'Neill tells Larsson (Mar 22, 2003)

Celtic boss Martin O'Neill has not given up on persuading star striker Henrik Larsson to stay at Parkhead. . . . more . . .

Bayern all but there after Dortmund held (Mar 22, 2003)

Spectacular it may not have been but Bayern Munich moved to the brink of an 18th Bundesliga title with a 1-0 home win over Hansa Rostock. . . . more . . .

Eriksson rules out compensating clubs for call-ups (Mar 22, 2003)

Premiership clubs should not receive compensation for international call-ups said England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson. . . . more . . .

Van Nistelrooy turns the screw on Arsenal (Mar 22, 2003)

A Ruud van Nistelrooy hat-trick sent Manchester United storming to the top of the Premiership for the first time this season and piled the pressure on to stuttering rivals Arsenal. . . . more . . .

Pires could go on strike in Iraq war protest (Mar 22, 2003)

Arsenal's French star Robert Pires has said he would be willing to strike to show his support for President Jacques Chirac's stance against the war in Iraq, the Sun newspaper said. . . . more . . .

Derby suspend manager Gregory (Mar 21, 2003)

English First Division strugglers Derby County suspended manager John Gregory in light of recent allegations made against him. . . . more . . .

Zidane slams 'unjust' war as Japanese stay home (Mar 21, 2003)

French football star Zinedine Zidane slammed the war in Iraq as 'unjust' as Japan announced they were pulling their sports stars from several international competitions. . . . more . . .

City defender told to find another club (Mar 21, 2003)

Manchester City defender Steve Howey has been told to find another club after refusing to accept a place on the bench for Saturday's Premiership clash at Chelsea. . . . more . . .

Manchester set for Real show in Champions League (Mar 21, 2003)

Holders Real Madrid were drawn against Manchester United in the tie of the round in the Champions League quarter-finals. . . . more . . .

Real Madrid target Arsenal's Pires and Vieira (Mar 21, 2003)

Spanish giants Real Madrid were reported to be ready to bid 35 million pounds (52 million dollars) for Arsenal's French stars Patrick Vieira and Robert Pires. . . . more . . .

Celtic given UEFA Cup boost (Mar 21, 2003)

Scottish champions Celtic were given a UEFA Cup boost when they avoided Italian side Lazio and drew Portuguese outfit Boavista in the semi-finals. . . . more . . .

O'Neill in wonderland as Celtic uphold Premiership credentials (Mar 21, 2003)

It is likely to be some time before anyone in England dares to question Celtic and Rangers ability to hold their own in the Premiership. . . . more . . .

Brazilian govt calls on FIFA to help players return home because of war (Mar 21, 2003)

The Brazilian Foreign Affairs Ministry requested that world soccer's govering body FIFA intercede to ensure that their soccer players did not lose out financially if they decided to leave Turkey and the Middle East over war in Iraq. . . . more . . .

Leeds axe boss Venables as Reid takes over temporarily (Mar 21, 2003)

English Premiership side Leeds United sacked manager Terry Venables after just eight months in charge and installed former Sunderland boss Peter Reid as caretaker manager. . . . more . . .

Inter Milan striker Vieri cleared of racism charge (Mar 21, 2003)

Inter Milan striker Christian Vieri was cleared of a charge of racism by UEFA following the Italian club's Champions League tie against Newcastle United on March 11. . . . more . . .

Paris hope to hang onto Ronaldinho (Mar 20, 2003)

Paris St Germain hope to resist bids from Manchester United and Italian clubs Inter and Juventus by extending the contract of their Brazilian World Cup star Ronaldinho. . . . more . . .

Arsenal captain Vieira blasts UEFA over racist attack (Mar 20, 2003)

Arsenal skipper Patrick Vieira, angry at constant taunts from the Valencia fans during their Champions League defeat, says European football's governing body UEFA has failed to stamp out racism. . . . more . . .

Inter president predicts bright future for Nigerian teenager (Mar 20, 2003)

Inter Milan president Massimo Moratti has predicted a bright future for Nigerian striker Obafemi Martins, who played a pivotal role in helping the club clinch a place in the last eight of the Champions League. . . . more . . .

Arsenal boss Wenger unbowed by defeat in Spain (Mar 20, 2003)

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has refused to accept that Champions League defeat could knock his team off course in their bid to win a successive English Premiership. . . . more . . .

Manchester fans protest lunch-time matches (Mar 20, 2003)

Manchester United fans plan to make a mass protest at this weekend's Old Trafford match with Fulham in a bid to end lunchtime kick-offs. . . . more . . .

Kuranyi gets Germany call for European qualifier (Mar 20, 2003)

VfB Stuttgart's Kevin Kuranyi was rewarded for his impressive goal-scoring in this season's Bundesliga with a first cap in Rudi Voller's line-up for Germany's European championship qualifier against Lithuania in Nuremburg on March 29. . . . more . . .

Ferguson rules out mind games (Mar 20, 2003)

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson denied he was playing mind games with Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger. . . . more . . .

Newcastle boss Robson pins blame on defenders (Mar 20, 2003)

Newcastle manager Bobby Robson said "abysmal" defending was to blame for their 2-0 defeat to Barcelona in the Champions League. . . . more . . .

Spanish armada sink English Champions League hopes (Mar 20, 2003)

Spain had a red letter night in the Champions League but their ecstasy was English misery as Barcelona and Valencia extinguished Newcastle and Arsenal's hopes of making the last eight. . . . more . . .

Ziege confident of Spurs comeback (Mar 20, 2003)

German full-back Christian Ziege, who feared he might never play again last December, has set his sights on returning to the Tottenham first team before the end of the season. . . . more . . .

Young Magpies want second bite at Champions League cherry (Mar 20, 2003)

Even the experience of what he described as a "very sharp lesson" from Barcelona could not dim Sir Bobby Robson's appetite for another taste of Champions League football. . . . more . . .

Valencia out to spike Arsenal's guns and sneak into last eight (Mar 19, 2003)

Both Arsenal and Valencia clash on Wednesday desperately seeking to land the knockout blow to either's Champions League hopes and also revive their flagging form. . . . more . . .

Ronaldo heads Real into last eight (Mar 19, 2003)

A rare headed goal from Brazilian star Ronaldo saw the reigning champions Real Madrid into the last eight of the Champions League with a hard fought 1-0 victory over Lokomotiv Moscow in their Group C clash. . . . more . . .

Deportivo wipe the smile from Ferguson's face (Mar 19, 2003)

Down-and-out Deportivo La Coruna wiped the smile from Sir Alex Ferguson's face as the Galicians took advantage of Manchester United's complacency to win 2-0 in their Champions League group D encounter. . . . more . . .

Newcastle boss admits magic needed to break Barcelona spell (Mar 19, 2003)

Newcastle manager Bobby Robson admits it will call for a little bit of something special to stop Spanish giants Barcelona's Champions League Cup run. . . . more . . .

Arsenal set to spark new club versus country row (Mar 19, 2003)

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is ready to spark a new club versus country row by playing Sol Campbell in their vital Champions League clash with Valencia here. . . . more . . .

Spain calls off Argentina match with Australia (Mar 19, 2003)

Australia's friendly international with Argentina in the Canary Islands on April 1 has been called off by the Spanish football federation because of the imminent conflict in Iraq. . . . more . . .

Soccer first casualty in impending Iraq war (Mar 19, 2003)

International soccer became the first casualty in the impending war in Iraq when Australia's friendly international with Argentina was called off. . . . more . . .

Bayern divided on transfer policy (Mar 19, 2003)

Bayern Munich officials are divided on transfer policy for the summer with Franz Beckenbauer, head of the club's non-executive supervisory board, calling for a temporary freeze whereas chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge hopes to land more new talent. . . . more . . .

Reprieved Terry set for England call-up (Mar 19, 2003)

Chelsea defender John Terry, cleared last year of attacking a nightclub bouncer, was set for a call-up to the England squad by manager Sven-Goran Eriksson this weekend. . . . more . . .

Venables gets Kewell boost (Mar 19, 2003)

Leeds manager Terry Venables, under pressure following five defeats in six games, received a triple boost when three of his struggling squad's injury problems receded. . . . more . . .

Romario prepares to leave Qatar (Mar 19, 2003)

Brazil's 1994 World Cup striker Romario, who joined Qatar club Al-Sad last month, said that he was not frightened by the threat of war in the Middle East but was nevertheless preparing to return home. . . . more . . .

Nine-man Bordeaux perform great escape with last gasp draw (Mar 19, 2003)

Bordeaux kept their hopes alive of winning the French title with a injury-time penalty to pull off a 1-1 draw with Strasbourg despite being reduced to nine men. . . . more . . .

Clinical Barca kill off Newcastle (Mar 19, 2003)

Newcastle's European dream was finally shattered as Barcelona marched into the last eight of the Champions League with their proud unbeaten record intact. . . . more . . .

Carew spikes Arsenal's guns again (Mar 19, 2003)

Two goals from Valencia's gangling Norwegian striker John Carew helped the Spaniards to a 2-1 victory over Arsenal in their Champions League group B clash. . . . more . . .

Roma fall short as Ajax advance (Mar 19, 2003)

AS Roma failed in their attempt to make it through to the last eight of the Champions League after being held to a 1-1 draw at home to Ajax. . . . more . . .

Nigerian teenager Martins stars for Inter (Mar 19, 2003)

Inter Milan coach Hector Cuper's conviction that teenage Nigerian Obafemi Martins was man enough to step in for suspended Christian Vieri in this crunch Champions League tie against Bayer Leverkusen was fully vindicated. . . . more . . .

Real need a win to avoid the unthinkable (Mar 18, 2003)

Real Madrid need to beat Lokomotiv Moscow in the Russian capital to be absolutely sure of keeping alive their bid for a fourth European crown in six seasons. . . . more . . .

Nigeria replace injured Aghahowa with Inter youngster (Mar 18, 2003)

Nigeria called up young striker Obafemi Martins from Italian club Inter Milan as replacement for injured Julius Aghahowa for the African Nations Cup qualifier in Malawi later this month, officials said. . . . more . . .

Wolfgang Sidka steps down as Bahrain coach (Mar 18, 2003)

German coach Wolfgang Sidka said he is stepping down as coach of Bahrain on health grounds and will not see through his contract which runs to October. . . . more . . .

Diouf free to play in UEFA Cup final (Mar 18, 2003)

Senegalese World Cup hero El-Hadji Diouf will be able to play in the UEFA Cup final should Liverpool reach it after receiving a two game ban from European football's governing body UEFA. . . . more . . .

Ronaldo heads Real into last eight (Mar 18, 2003)

Desailly must wait for France record (Mar 18, 2003)

Chelsea stalwart Marcel Desailly must wait before he can win a record 104th international cap after France coach Jacques Santini left him out of his squad to face Malta and Israel in upcoming European championship qualifiers. . . . more . . .

Juventus edge into to Champions League quarter finals (Mar 18, 2003)

Italian League leaders Juventus comfortably moved into the quarter finals of the Champions League, despite a spirited 2-1 win by Swiss underdogs Basel. . . . more . . .

Dortmund's win in vain as Real snatch last eight place (Mar 18, 2003)

Borussia Dortmund were edged out of the Champions League despite winning 1-0 at Group C winners AC Milan. . . . more . . .

Winning title would be 'greatest' achievement for Fergie (Mar 18, 2003)

Overhauling Arsenal to take the English Premiership crown would be Manchester United's "greatest" ever achievement according to boss Sir Alex Ferguson, who cranked up the mind games against his old rival Arsene Wenger. . . . more . . .

Hothead Bellamy feels 'picked on' (Mar 18, 2003)

Newcastle's Welsh international striker Craig Bellamy said he believes referees give him unfair treatment because of the 23-year-old's hot-head reputation. . . . more . . .

Blatter backs goal-line technology (Mar 18, 2003)

FIFA president Sepp Blatter has revealed he is in favour of using video technology in resolving contentious issues, but insisted deciding whether the ball had crossed the line is the only case in which video evidence would be used by officials. . . . more . . .