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Archive soccer news from around the world

Beckham gets the all clear (Oct 31, 2003)

David Beckham has been passed fit to return for Real Madrid against Athletic Bilbao after missing the last two league games with a hamstring problem. . . . more . . .

Barthez to stay at Marseille as club appeal to FIFA over transfer (Oct 31, 2003)

Marseille have decided to appeal to world football's ruling body FIFA in their bid to seal the loan transfer of France and Manchester United goalkeeper Fabien Barthez, the club said. . . . more . . .

Barthez returns to United after Marseille move blocked (Oct 31, 2003)

Fabien Barthez will return to Manchester United for the last two months of the year after FIFA blocked his loan move to Marseille, United boss Sir Alex Ferguson confirmed. . . . more . . .

Ferguson hits out at FA over "deal" with Arsenal (Oct 31, 2003)

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson accused the Football Association of letting Arsenal off the hook over the fracas that broke out after the two clubs' ill-tempered Premiership clash in September. . . . more . . .

Marseille to appeal to FIFA over Barthez transfer (Oct 31, 2003)

Marseille have decided to appeal to world football's ruling body FIFA in their bid to land France and Manchester United goalkeeper Fabien Barthez, the club said. . . . more . . .

Injury-plagued Salas and Pizarro in Chile squad (Oct 31, 2003)

Marcelo Salas and David Pizarro were included in Chile's squad for two South American World Cup qualifiers next month though both have been struggling with injury. . . . more . . .

Advantage Enyimba in African Champions League semi-final (Oct 31, 2003)

Enyimba of Nigeria staked a strong claim for a place in the African Champions League final after holding USMA of Algeria 1-1. . . . more . . .

Arsenal consider appeal after huge fine and players banned (Oct 31, 2003)

Arsenal were surprisingly considering an appeal after the English Football Assocation fined the club 175,000 pounds (298,000 dollars) and banned four of their players for a total of nine matches. . . . more . . .

Barthez deal refused by FIFA (Oct 31, 2003)

Fabien Barthez' loan deal to Marseille from Manchester United has not been authorized, football's world governing body FIFA said. . . . more . . .

Gunners set to pile on the agony for Leeds (Oct 31, 2003)

Leeds manager Peter Reid could find his job on the line again if his side fail to avoid defeat at home to unbeaten Premiership leaders Arsenal. . . . more . . .

Fergie warns United to beware old boy Sheringham (Oct 31, 2003)

Sir Alex Ferguson has identified Manchester United old boy Teddy Sheringham as the man to watch as Portsmouth seek their first win at Old Trafford in nearly half a century this weekend. . . . more . . .

Ferguson reignites feud with Wenger with Arsenal "deal" claim (Oct 31, 2003)

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson accused the Football Association (FA) of letting Arsenal off the hook over the fracas that broke out after the two clubs' ill-tempered Premiership clash in September. . . . more . . .

Ronaldo and Zidane invite soccer stars to anti-poverty match (Oct 30, 2003)

Forty of the world's top players have been invited to join Ronaldo and Zinedine Zidane in a star-studded charity match against poverty in December, the United Nations revealed. . . . more . . .

Bundesliga quartet tussle for Alpay (Oct 30, 2003)

Werder Bremen have stepped into the race to sign Aston Villa's Turkey international Alpay, sparking a Bundesliga tug-of-war for his services. . . . more . . .

Thai premier still eyeing Fulham buy despite Al Fayed's 'no sale' (Oct 30, 2003)

Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra reiterated his interest in buying English football club Fulham but said it was up to owner Muhammed Al Fayed to decide whether to sell. . . . more . . .

Gazza edges closer to top flight comeback (Oct 30, 2003)

Paul Gascoigne has edged a step closer to an unexpected top flight comeback after coming through his first match for Wolves reserves. . . . more . . .

Atletico Madrid provide both a trick and a treat (Oct 30, 2003)

Atletico Madrid provided their long suffering fans with both a trick and a treat on the night before Halloween by giving Real Sociedad a 4-0 thrashing. . . . more . . .

I will start scoring again, Real's Ronaldo says (Oct 30, 2003)

Real Madrid's Brazilian superstar Ronaldo, who has not scored a goal during the club's last three league matches, has assured fans he expects to return to form shortly. . . . more . . .

Troubled Bosnich not out of my plans: Aussie coach (Oct 30, 2003)

Mark Bosnich could still make a playing comeback for Australia if only he sorted out his stormy private life, national coach Frank Farina revealed. . . . more . . .

England and Turkey fined over Istanbul brawl (Oct 30, 2003)

England and Turkey were both fined by European football's governing body UEFA for improper conduct after the brawl involving players in their Euro 2004 qualifier in Istanbul two weeks ago. . . . more . . .

Kahn may delay retirement (Oct 30, 2003)

Bayern Munich and Germany goalkeeper Oliver Kahn has revealed that he may prolong his career beyond the 2006 World Cup, insisting he is as fit as ever. . . . more . . .

Arsenal reported to be seeking Russian cash boost (Oct 30, 2003)

Arsenal dismissed as "purely speculative" fresh reports indicating the cash-strapped club is seeking to persuade Russian tycoons to invest in the club. . . . more . . .

Frankfurt player jailed for sexual harassment (Oct 30, 2003)

Eintracht Frankfurt defender Jean-Clotaire Tsoumou-Madza was found guilty of sexual harassing a teenager and sentenced to six months in prison and handed a 10,000-euro-fine. . . . more . . .

Cologne sack Funkel (Oct 30, 2003)

Bundesliga strugglers Cologne sacked coach Friedhelm Funkel after two wins in ten league matches saw the three-time German champions slump to 16th in the German top flight. . . . more . . .

Arsenal hit with huge fine, players banned over Battle of Old Trafford (Oct 30, 2003)

The English Football Association fined Arsenal 175,000 pounds (298,000 dollars) and banned four of their players for a total of nine matches following the clashes that erupted at the end of their draw with Manchester United last month. . . . more . . .

Dede may be out until January: Sammer (Oct 30, 2003)

Borussia Dortmund have been rocked by the news that their Brazilian star Dede faces an extended spell on the sidelines due to the ankle problem sustained in Saturday's 3-0 defeat by VfL Bochum. . . . more . . .

Gibraltar football scores 'goal' against Spain (Oct 30, 2003)

The Gibraltar Football Association has scored a 'goal' against the Spanish Government, which had objected to the British dependent territory off the coast of Spain joining European football's governing body UEFA. . . . more . . .

Ronaldo and Zidane invite 40 world soccer greats to anti-poverty match (Oct 30, 2003)

Forty of the world's top players have been invited to join Ronaldo and Zinedine Zidane in a start-studded global charity match against poverty in December, the United Nations said. . . . more . . .

Desailly sold me to Chelsea: Makelele (Oct 30, 2003)

French midfielder Claude Makelele says that compatriot Marcel Desailly played a pivotal role in his 24-million-euro move to Premiership side Chelsea and claimed former employer Real Madrid has no respect for the playing staff. . . . more . . .

Desailly sold me Chelsea: Makelele (Oct 30, 2003)

Kahn may delay retirement beyond 2006 (Oct 30, 2003)

Bayern Munich and Germany goalkeeper Oliver Kahn has revealed that he may prolong his career beyond the 2006 World Cup, insisting he is as fit as ever. . . . more . . .

Romania's Filipescu says adios to Real Betis (Oct 30, 2003)

Romania international Iulian Filipescu said that he was leaving Real Betis 'by mutual agreement' at a press conference. . . . more . . .

Barthez deal refused by FIFA. (Oct 30, 2003)

Fabien Barthez' loan deal to Marseille from Manchester United has not been authorized, football's world governing body FIFA said. . . . more . . .

Lyon's Juninho in Brazil squad (Oct 30, 2003)

Brazil coach Carlos Alberto Parreira caused a surprise by picking Lyon's Juninho for two South American 2006 World Cup qualifiers next month. . . . more . . .

Bundesliga quintet suffer Cup exit (Oct 29, 2003)

Bundesliga clubs had a miserable time in the German Cup with Borussia Dortmund, Schalke 04, Hannover, Eintracht Frankfurt and 1860 Munich all crashing out at the second round. . . . more . . .

United and Chelsea clash over Kenyon (Oct 29, 2003)

Relations between Manchester United and Chelsea nose-dived on when United revealed they had reported their rivals to the Premier League over allegations that Peter Kenyon had begun working for the London club without clearance. . . . more . . .

Petit set for six weeks on sidelines after knee op (Oct 29, 2003)

Chelsea's French midfielder Emmanuel Petit is set to be sidelined for around six weeks after he undergoes surgery on his troublesome right knee in Strasbourg. . . . more . . .

Neill sees red again as Reds march on (Oct 29, 2003)

Blackburn's Australian defender Lucas Neill was sent off against Liverpool for the second time this season as his side crashed out of the League Cup. . . . more . . .

Deportivo lose but still lead the way in Spain (Oct 29, 2003)

Deportivo La Coruna lost their 100 per cent home record when they were surprisingly beaten 2-0 by struggling Real Mallorca but they hung on to the league leadership after Valencia were held to a 2-2 draw by Celta Vigo. . . . more . . .

Thai premier Thaksin mulls purchase of Fulham football club (Oct 29, 2003)

Thailand's tycoon-turned-prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra said he was considering buying Fulham Football Club of the English Premier League. . . . more . . .

Bosnich arrested over alleged attack on ex-girlfriend (Oct 29, 2003)

Troubled former Chelsea and Australia goalkeeper Mark Bosnich has been arrested and released on police bail after an alleged attack on his ex-girlfriend, Sophie Anderton. . . . more . . .

Mandela calls for South American support for World Cup bid (Oct 29, 2003)

Former South African president Nelson Mandela called on South America to support his country's bid to organise the 2010 World Cup, which will be hosted by an African country for the first time. . . . more . . .

Al Fayed says Fulham "not for sale" as Thai PM confirms interest (Oct 29, 2003)

Mohamed Al Fayed insisted that he had no plans to sell Fulham - despite a claim by Thailand's wealthy prime minister that he was considering a bid for the Premiership club. . . . more . . .

Arsenal win on penalties as Man United add to Leeds misery (Oct 29, 2003)

Premiership leader's Arsenal survived a scare before advancing to the fourth round of the English League Cup with a penalty-shootout victory over plucky Rotherham, as debt-ridden Leeds United fell 3-2 to Manchester United. . . . more . . .

Wenger hails teen stars, hands Pennant chance to impress (Oct 29, 2003)

Arsene Wenger has paid tribute to the resilience of his young Gunners after a line-up featuring the youngest player ever to represent Arsenal guided the club into the fourth round of the League Cup. . . . more . . .

PSG humbled by second division Gueugnon... again (Oct 29, 2003)

Paris Saint Germain were knocked out of the French League Cup by Gueugnon, the same second division outfit that humbled the former champions of Europe 2-0 in the final of this competition in 2000. . . . more . . .

Ferguson reshuffles Man Utd for Leeds Cup match (Oct 28, 2003)

Phil Neville is expected to be restored to the Manchester United team for the Carling League Cup match against Leeds at Elland Road. . . . more . . .

Leeds pile up record losses (Oct 28, 2003)

Leeds United have revealed pre-tax losses of 49.5 million pounds (83.8 million dollars) in their annual results -- the highest ever by a British football club. . . . more . . .

Solskjaer upbeat on recovery (Oct 28, 2003)

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer feels his recovery from a knee operation is making satisfactory progress but Manchester United's Norwegian striker is not setting any deadlines for his comeback. . . . more . . .

Arsenal send reserves into League Cup action (Oct 28, 2003)

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has decided to send out a reserve side against Rotherham in the League Cup at Highbury. . . . more . . .

Stevens saved in penalty drama (Oct 28, 2003)

Hertha Berlin coach Huub Stevens endured a painstaking 120 minutes and penalty kicks as his side triumphed 4-3 over Hansa Rostock on spot-kicks in the second round of the German Cup and saved his job at the Olympic Stadium. . . . more . . .

Madrid look less than spicy without Beckham (Oct 28, 2003)

Real Madrid coach Carlos Queiroz may be regretting his decision not to risk David Beckham after the reigning Spanish champions could only scramble to a lacklustre 0-0 draw at lowly Real Zaragoza. . . . more . . .

Mbeki to tackle Chirac over French support for Morocco's 2010 bid (Oct 28, 2003)

South African President Thabo Mbeki will raise the issue of France's overt support for Morocco's 2010 World Cup bid during a state visit to France next month, a senior government official said. . . . more . . .

Houllier says Owen's staying put at Anfield (Oct 28, 2003)

Liverpool boss Gerald Houllier dismissed reports linking star striker Michael Owen with a move away from Anfield at the end of the season. . . . more . . .

Magath uncomfortable about splashing cash on ten-year-old (Oct 28, 2003)

VfB Stuttgart coach Felix Magath has expressed his surprise that the club are willing to pay a fee for a gifted 10-year-old footballing talent from Austria. . . . more . . .

Volz and co offer ray of light for Voller (Oct 28, 2003)

While German football has been bemoaning the influx of foreigners and the lack of emerging young talent in the Bundesliga a number of German starlets have been making waves in the English Premier League this season. . . . more . . .

Chastized Eto'o to stay at Mallorca until June (Oct 28, 2003)

Real Mallorca coach Luis Aragones said that his Cameroon international striker Samuel Eto'o has agreed to stay at the struggling Balearic island club, at least until the end of the season. . . . more . . .

Scholes injury blow for United (Oct 28, 2003)

Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes will be out of action for up to four weeks after undergoing surgery on his troublesome groin problem. . . . more . . .

Woodgate set for Newcastle return (Oct 28, 2003)

England and Newcastle defender Jonathan Woodgate, out of action for the past month with a hernia problem, could return against Chelsea next month. . . . more . . .

Wenger brands Holland a diver (Oct 27, 2003)

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, famous for never seeing any controversy when his own players are involved, has accused Matt Holland of diving to win the penalty which ensured Charlton held Arsenal to a draw. . . . more . . .

Hertha Berlin coach banned from touchline for two games (Oct 27, 2003)

Hertha Berlin's Dutch coach Huub Stevens has been banned from the touchline for two matches by the German football federation for "unsporting behaviour" during a Bundesliga game earlier this month. . . . more . . .

Arsenal take top spot back from Chelsea (Oct 27, 2003)

A wonderful free-kick from Thierry Henry gave Arsenal a 1-1 draw at Charlton to send his team back to the top of the English Premiership just 24 hours after relinquishing pole position to Chelsea who beat Manchester City 1-0. . . . more . . .

Gerrard ready to sign new Anfield deal (Oct 27, 2003)

Liverpool and England midfielder Steven Gerrard said that he is close to signing a new deal at Anfield. . . . more . . .

Bartlett puts club before country (Oct 27, 2003)

South Africa striker Shaun Bartlett is quitting international football to concentrate on securing a new contract with his club, Premiership side Charlton. . . . more . . .

Campbell warns that Gunners best is yet to come (Oct 27, 2003)

Arsenal and England defender Sol Campbell warned his Premiership side's title rivals that the Gunners are top of the table without being at their best and insisted they would peak when it mattered most, in the Premiership run-in. . . . more . . .

Pleat steps up war of words with Hoddle (Oct 27, 2003)

Tottenham boss David Pleat stepped-up his war of words with former coach Glenn Hoddle after his team's 0-0 draw at home to Middlesbrough. . . . more . . .

Blackburn boss Souness faces ban (Oct 27, 2003)

Blackburn manager Graeme Souness is facing a three-match touchline ban after his bust-up with Southampton No.2 Dennis Rofe in last weekend's Premiership defeat. . . . more . . .

Spurs boss blames poor team performance for losses (Oct 27, 2003)

Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy blamed poor performances on the pitch for the Premiership struggler's annual pre-tax losses of 7.1 million pounds (12 million dollars). . . . more . . .

Wenger hits out at 'diver' Holland (Oct 27, 2003)

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger hit out at Matt Holland after the Charlton player won a controversial penalty in the 1-1 Premiership draw at The Valley here. . . . more . . .

Birmingham set to loan out Vaesen (Oct 27, 2003)

Birmingham's Belgian goalkeeper Nico Vaesen is set to to be loaned out by manager Steve Bruce to regain match fitness after a serious knee injury. . . . more . . .

Van der Elst appointed Lokeren coach (Oct 27, 2003)

Former Belgian international football star Franky Van der Elst has replaced compatriot Paul Put as coach of Belgian first division side Lokeren, the club announced. . . . more . . .

Arteta adds to Gers injury woes (Oct 27, 2003)

Spanish midfielder Mikel Arteta has joined Scottish champions Rangers growing injury list and been ruled out of Tuesday night's Cup tie against Forfar with a shoulder problem. . . . more . . .

England and Turkey charged over Istanbul brawl (Oct 27, 2003)

England and Turkey have been charged by European football's governing body UEFA with improper conduct for the Istanbul brawl in their Euro 2004 qualifier two weeks ago. . . . more . . .

Leeds set for more woe (Oct 27, 2003)

Second-from-bottom English Premiership side Leeds United face more bad news when they announce their annual results. . . . more . . .

Larsson set for Celtic exit (Oct 27, 2003)

Henrik Larsson blasted Celtic into pole position in the Scottish Premier League title race over the weekend but refuses to be drawn into talk of staying on next season. . . . more . . .

Villa boss faces up to tough season (Oct 27, 2003)

David O'Leary has warned Aston Villa they are facing a tough season as he tries to overcome the handicap of a small squad and little money to spend in the transfer market. . . . more . . .

Barcelona get first win in five games (Oct 26, 2003)

Barcelona put all their recent problems behind them to show their true colours and win for the first time in five games, cruising to a 3-1 victory at Real Mallorca. . . . more . . .

Monaco stay ahead despite Sochaux stalemate (Oct 26, 2003)

Monaco stayed top of the French league despite being held to a 1-1 draw at lowly Sochaux. . . . more . . .

It's not important to top the table now, says Ranieri (Oct 26, 2003)

Chelsea manager Claudio Ranieri was impressively relaxed after his multinational superstars took top spot in the Premiership with a 1-0 win over Manchester City, saying that leading the table was not vital - yet. . . . more . . .

Miroslav Klose to exit Kaiserslautern: chairman (Oct 26, 2003)

Kaiserslautern chairman Rene C. . . . more . . .

Ferguson rues bad day at the office after Fulham shocker (Oct 26, 2003)

Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson was at a loss to explain away his "lethargic" side's shock 3-1 home loss to Fulham, a result that cost them a chance to head the Premiership. . . . more . . .

Arsenal regain top spot after Charlton draw (Oct 26, 2003)

Arsenal drew 1-1 at Charlton to regain top spot in the English Premiership but the match was hardly a classic with lots of frenetic activity but few goalmouth incidents. . . . more . . .

Bayer underline title credentials with Gladbach win (Oct 26, 2003)

Bayer Leverkusen further underlined their title credentials with a 1-0 home win over Borussia Monchengladbach which puts them back on top of the Bundesliga at the expense of VfB Stuttgart who defeated VfL Wolfsburg by the same scoreline Saturday. . . . more . . .

McLeish tells Rangers - shape up or else (Oct 26, 2003)

Angry Rangers boss Alex McLeish told his team that they are in danger of throwing the Scottish title away. . . . more . . .

Portugal opens new 65,000-seat stadium for Euro 2004 (Oct 26, 2003)

Portuguese club Benfica unveiled their new state-of-the-art, 65,000-seat stadium which will host the final of next summer's Euro 2004 finals. . . . more . . .

Shevchenko double fires Milan to top in Italy (Oct 26, 2003)

European champions AC Milan brushed aside their injury worries as a double second-half blast from Andrei Shevchenko took them to a 3-0 win at Sampdoria and top place in the Italian championship. . . . more . . .

Espanyol crash again to increase pressure on Clemente (Oct 26, 2003)

Time is running out for Espanyol coach Javier Clemente after the Barcelona-based side went down 4-0 at home to Celta Vigo. . . . more . . .

Marseille back in control in France (Oct 25, 2003)

Marseille buried the nightmare of last week's Alsatian savaging to go top of the French league following an uninspired 2-0 win at home against Rennes. . . . more . . .

Raul grabs late victory for Real Madrid (Oct 25, 2003)

Real Madrid kept up the pressure on league leaders Valencia thanks to the Spanish international Raul Gonzalez who scored twice in the last 12 minutes to give Real Madrid a 3-1 victory over Racing Santander. . . . more . . .

Newcastle resurgence continues as Shearer strikes again (Oct 25, 2003)

Any thoughts that Bobby Robson might soon be pensioned off after Newcastle United's poor start to the season were banished as his side beat Portsmouth 3-0 for a fifth consecutive victory. . . . more . . .

Pleat tries to defuse war of words with Hoddle (Oct 25, 2003)

Tottenham's stand-in manager David Pleat attempted to soothe boiling tempers after recently-sacked boss Glenn Hoddle launched a ferocious verbal attack on him. . . . more . . .

Luizao lifts gloom for Stevens (Oct 25, 2003)

Hertha Berlin eased the pressure on coach Huub Stevens with their first victory of the season, triumphing 1-0 over Hansa Rostock at the Ostseestadion. . . . more . . .

Stunning comeback for Wolves after first-half pounding (Oct 25, 2003)

Wolverhampton Wanderers gave one of the most stirring performances the English Premiership has seen for some time, coming back from 0-3 down at half time to squeeze out an unlikely 4-3 win against Leicester. . . . more . . .

Seeler attacks Jara sacking (Oct 25, 2003)

SV Hamburg legend Uwe Seeler has hit out at his former club for their treatment of Kurt Jara who was sacked as coach after being told he would be in charge for the home match with Schalke 04. . . . more . . .

It is crunch time says Kahn (Oct 25, 2003)

Oliver Kahn believes it is make or break time for Bayern Munich and is not concerned whether the spectators are bored by their brand of football so long as it proves effective. . . . more . . .

More misery for Blackburn as Beattie strikes again (Oct 25, 2003)

Blackburn were sent worryingly close to the Premiership relegation zone as old boy James Beattie continued their miserable run by firing Southampton to a 2-0 win. . . . more . . .

Birthday boy Rooney draws a blank (Oct 25, 2003)

England wonder boy Wayne Rooney failed to extend his 18th birthday celebrations as he and his Everton team-mates draw a blank in a 0-0 draw at Aston Villa. . . . more . . .

Raul grabs late victory for suffering Real Madrid (Oct 25, 2003)

Real Madrid kept up the pressure on league leaders Valencia thanks to Raul Gonzalez, who scored twice in the last 12 minutes to give Real Madrid a hard fought 3-1 victory over Racing Santander. . . . more . . .

Lyon end Canaries home run (Oct 25, 2003)

A second half goal from Brazilian midfield star Juninho got French champions Lyon back to winning ways as they ended the unbeaten home record of Nantes. . . . more . . .

Celtic pull clear as Rangers held to stalemate (Oct 25, 2003)

Celtic pulled five points clear at the top of a Scottish Premiership table after brushing aside Aberdeen 4-0 with arch-rivals Rangers only scraping a 0-0 draw at Livingston. . . . more . . .

Manchester United shocked as Fulham end four-decade jinx (Oct 25, 2003)

Manchester United missed a seemingly easy chance to leapfrog Arsenal at the top of the English Premiership, the champions misfiring horribly in a stunning 3-1 home defeat to humble Fulham. . . . more . . .

Morris takes leave of absence as Leeds continue investigation (Oct 24, 2003)

Leeds midfielder Jody Morris will miss the club's next three matches after agreeing to take a 10-day leave of absence to allow the club to conclude an internal investigation. . . . more . . .

Agent says Alpay could return (Oct 24, 2003)

Alpay's agent said the Turkey defender could return to the Premiership despite quitting Aston Villa this week. . . . more . . .

Eriksson's assistant to check on Celtic pair (Oct 24, 2003)

Celtic's Chris Sutton and Alan Thompson have drawn the attention of England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson, who has asked his assistant Tord Grip to travel north to check on the English pair. . . . more . . .

Birthday-boy Rooney gets manager's warning (Oct 24, 2003)

Wayne Rooney becomes a man on Friday but fails to get the vote from his Everton manager David Moyes who has hit out at the birthday-boy for failing to hit top form this season. . . . more . . .

Sacked Spurs boss Hoddle blasts "disruptive" Pleat (Oct 24, 2003)

Sacked Tottenham boss Glenn Hoddle launched an attack on caretaker manager David Pleat, labelling him as disruptive and obstructive. . . . more . . .

England close door on Rio (Oct 24, 2003)

English football chiefs were reported to have decided to leave Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand out of the friendly international with Denmark at Old Trafford on November 16. . . . more . . .

Bordeaux sack coach Baup (Oct 24, 2003)

Fifth-from-bottom Bordeaux sacked coach Elie Baup and replaced him with Michel Pavon, a 34-year-old former player at the club with no first division managerial experience. . . . more . . .

Soccer lingo gets Zidane and Beckham on same wavelength (Oct 24, 2003)

Zinedine Zidane admits he might not understand what his Real Madrid team-mate David Beckham is saying but couldn't wish for a better understanding on the football pitch. . . . more . . .

Owen committed to Liverpool cause (Oct 24, 2003)

Liverpool's failure to challenge for silverware in the English Premiership this season will not prompt Michael Owen to leave the club, French manager Gerard Houllier insisted. . . . more . . .

Kluivert rules out move to Arsenal, Premiership (Oct 23, 2003)

Barcelona striker Patrick Kluivert has dismissed rumours that he will join Premiership leaders Arsenal when the transfer window re-opens in January. . . . more . . .

Arsenal lose Vieira for another fortnight (Oct 23, 2003)

Arsenal midfielder Patrick Vieira is set for another spell on the sidelines after a recurrence of his thigh injury. . . . more . . .

Beckham out after pulling hamstring (Oct 23, 2003)

David Beckham has only one chance in a hundred of playing in Real Madrid's Primera Liga match against Racing Santander this weekend, club doctor Alfonso del Corral warned. . . . more . . .

Ismael signs on at Bremen (Oct 23, 2003)

Werder Bremen have made Valerien Ismael's move to the Weserstadion permanent with the French defender penning a contract until 2007. . . . more . . .

Toppmoller aims to recapture Hamburg glory days (Oct 23, 2003)

New SV Hamburg coach Klaus Toppmoller has set his long-term targets on recapturing the glory days with the 1983 European champions. . . . more . . .

Beckham doubtful for league duty after pulling hamstring (Oct 23, 2003)

David Beckham could be ruled out of Real Madrid's Primera Liga match against Racing Santander this weekend after aggravating a troublesome hamstring in Real's 1-0 win over Champions League rivals Partizan Belgrade. . . . more . . .

Turkey's Alpay quits Villa (Oct 23, 2003)

Turkey defender Alpay, under fire for goading David Beckham during England's ill-tempered Euro 2004 qualifier in Istanbul, is quitting Aston Villa. . . . more . . .

South Korea coach in firing line after double humiliation (Oct 23, 2003)

South Korea's Portuguese coach Humberto Coelho could lose his job after the international side's double humiliation in Asian Cup qualifying matches this week. . . . more . . .

Alpay quits Villa (Oct 23, 2003)

Turkey defender Alpay, under fire for goading David Beckham during England's Euro 2004 qualifier in Istanbul, is quitting Aston Villa. . . . more . . .

Rost warns Schalke of relegation threat (Oct 23, 2003)

German international goalkeeper Frank Rost claims Schalke 04 must be wary of being dragged into a relegation battle after an indifferent start to the Bundesliga season. . . . more . . .

Kanoute ruled out for two months (Oct 23, 2003)

Tottenham striker Frederic Kanoute was ruled out of action for two months following the injury he picked up after a tackle by Turkish midfielder Muzzy Izzet last weekend. . . . more . . .

Inter striker Kallon suspended after failed drugs test (Oct 23, 2003)

Inter Milan's Sierra Leone striker Mohammed Kallon has been suspended until further notice for failing a random drugs test for the banned steroid nandrolone. . . . more . . .

Charitable Beckenbauer comes good on bet (Oct 23, 2003)

Bayern Munich president Franz Beckenbauer has vowed to hand over the 10,000-euro wager he had with Lyon striker Giovane Elber whether the Brazilian forward scores against his former club or not. . . . more . . .

Rio drug charge delayed (Oct 23, 2003)

English football chiefs have delayed charging Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand for failing to take a routine drug test. . . . more . . .

Rehhagel warns Stuttgart against sales (Oct 23, 2003)

Greek national coach Otto Rehhagel believes VfB Stuttgart can go on to play in the Champions League and challenge for the German title so long as they do not cash in their prize assets. . . . more . . .

Stevens fined and hit with touchline ban (Oct 23, 2003)

Hertha Berlin's Dutch coach Huub Stevens has been handed a two-match ban and a 15,000-euro fine by the German Football Federation (DFB) for unsporting conduct during Saturday's 4-1 defeat by Bayer Leverkusen. . . . more . . .

United and Chelsea celebrate while Italy mourns (Oct 23, 2003)

Manchester United and Chelsea put their Champions League campaigns firmly back on track but Italian holders AC Milan slumped to an embarrassing home defeat to unheralded FC Bruges. . . . more . . .

Stuttgart bandwagon rolls on with Greek win (Oct 22, 2003)

VfB Stuttgart took a giant stride towards the last sixteen of the Champions League with a convincing 2-0 win over Panathinaikos in front of a capacity 50,300 fans at the Gottlieb-Daimler Stadium. . . . more . . .

Inter striker Kallon fails drug test (Oct 22, 2003)

MILAN, Italy - Inter Milan striker Mohammed Kallon has tested positive for the banned steroid nandrolone following a random drugs test, the Italian Olympic Committee (CONI) revealed. . . . more . . .

Mutu completes Chelsea fightback (Oct 22, 2003)

Romanian Adrian Mutu completed a second half fightback by Chelsea in a 2-1 Champions League victory over Lazio to wipe away recent disappointments. . . . more . . .

Perugia courting Sweden's star woman footballer (Oct 22, 2003)

Italian club Perugia is courting the star of Sweden's World Cup women's football team Victoria Svensson apparently to play in the Serie A. . . . more . . .

Fortune doubtful for 'Battle of Britain' as Fergie feels pressure (Oct 22, 2003)

South African midfielder Quinton Fortune is doubtful for Manchester United's Champions League clash with Rangers but Ryan Giggs is set to return for the English champions. . . . more . . .

Dindane reignites Anderlecht bid as Celtic fail to shine (Oct 22, 2003)

Ivory Coast international Aruna Dindane handed ten-man Anderlecht a Champions League lifeline after scoring the only goal in a hard-fought 1-0 win over group A rivals Celtic. . . . more . . .

Czech World Cup winger Pospichal dies (Oct 22, 2003)

Tomas Pospichal, right wing in the Czechoslovak team which lost to Brazil in the 1962 World Cup final in Chile, has died at the age of 67, the Czech football federation said Wednesday. . . . more . . .

Bruges shock holders Milan (Oct 22, 2003)

Bruges pulled off a major shock by defeating Champions League holders AC Milan 1-0 for their first group H victory. . . . more . . .

Vintage Porto leave bitter taste in Marseille (Oct 22, 2003)

UEFA Cup champions Porto proved the more incisive team on the night with a telling 3-2 victory over Champions League group F rivals Marseille. . . . more . . .

Hartmann adds to Stevens woes (Oct 22, 2003)

Hertha Berlin coach Huub Stevens must do without the services of German international Michael Hartmann as he bids to save his job at the Olympic Stadium. . . . more . . .

Ziege poised for comeback (Oct 22, 2003)

Tottenham's Christian Ziege is set to put his injury misery behind him by making his long-awaited Premiership comeback against his former club Middlesbrough on Sunday. . . . more . . .

Brazil striker Pinto leaves Galatasaray (Oct 22, 2003)

Turkish outfit Galatasaray said they were parting ways with Brazilian striker Fabio Pinto on a mutual agreement. . . . more . . .

Hamburg sack Jara as Toppmoller appointment beckons (Oct 22, 2003)

SV Hamburg have sacked their Austrian coach Kurt Jara and are poised to unveil former Bayer Leverkusen coach Klaus Toppmoller as his successor, it was reported. . . . more . . .

United ensure happy homecoming for relieved Fergie (Oct 22, 2003)

Manchester United made it a happy homecoming for manager Sir Alex Ferguson as the English champions held out for a 1-0 win over their Scottish counterparts Rangers. . . . more . . .

Raul nods Real nearer second phase as Beckham struggles (Oct 22, 2003)

Spanish sharpshooter Raul's close range header propelled nine-times champions Real Madrid a step closer to the knockout stages of the Champions League after seeing off Group F rivals Partizan Belgrade 1-0. . . . more . . .

Bayern seek Ballack omission against France (Oct 22, 2003)

Bayern Munich are to ask coach Rudi Voller to omit Michael Ballack from the German squad to face France on November 15 and allow the midfielder to recover from his lingering ankle injury. . . . more . . .

Inter banking on Zac to reignite title challenge (Oct 22, 2003)

Inter Milan vice-president Giacinto Facchetti said new coach Alberto Zaccheroni was the right man to resurrect the club's faltering title challenge. . . . more . . .

Hamburg suffer Pieckenhagen blow (Oct 22, 2003)

Struggling SV Hamburg have been rocked by the news that goalkeeper Martin Pieckenhagen will be sidelined for six months after sustaining a cruciate ligament injury in Sunday's 4-0 defeat by Kaiserslautern. . . . more . . .

United ensure happy homecoming for Fergie (Oct 22, 2003)

Manchester United made it a happy homecoming for manager Sir Alex Ferguson as the English champions held out for a 1-0 win over their Scottish counterparts Rangers. . . . more . . .

Magical Ibrahimovic puts Ajax top (Oct 22, 2003)

A piece of individual brilliance from highly-rated Swedish striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic gave Ajax a 1-0 Champions League win over Celta Vigo as the Dutch giants went top of Group H. . . . more . . .

Brits suffer Champions League power cut (Oct 22, 2003)

British hopes of making a major Champions League impact nosedived when both Arsenal and Celtic suffered defeats which left them rooted to the bottom of their qualifying groups. . . . more . . .

Raul nods Real nearer second phase (Oct 22, 2003)

Spanish sharpshooter Raul's close range header seven minutes before the break propelled nine-times champions Real Madrid to the brink of the second phase of the Champions League after seeing off Group F rivals Partizan Belgrade. . . . more . . .

British teams suffer Champions League power cut (Oct 22, 2003)

British hopes of making a major Champions League impact nosedived when both Arsenal and Celtic suffered defeats which left them rooted to the bottom of their qualifying groups. . . . more . . .

New European low for beaten Arsenal (Oct 22, 2003)

Maxim Shatskikh's volleyed goal and a schoolboy error by Arsenal keeper Jens Lehmann earned Dynamo Kiev a 2-1 Champions League victory. . . . more . . .

United and Chelsea face moment of truth (Oct 22, 2003)

English giants Manchester United and Chelsea face gruelling examinations of their Champions League credentials with coaches Alex Ferguson and Claudio Ranieri desperately trying to outwit their own countrymen. . . . more . . .

Fortune doubtful for Battle of Britain as Fergie feels pressure (Oct 21, 2003)

South African midfielder Quinton Fortune is doubtful for Manchester United's Champions League clash with Rangers on Wednesday but Ryan Giggs is set to return for the English champions. . . . more . . .

Arsenal on a mission to wipe away Champions League doubts (Oct 21, 2003)

Arsenal's domination of the English Premiership will mean little here when they meet Champions League rivals Dynamo Kiev in the desperate hope of climbing off bottom spot in their group. . . . more . . .

Rio set for misconduct charge (Oct 21, 2003)

Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand looks set to be charged by the Football Association on Thursday with misconduct as a result of his failure to attend a drugs test. . . . more . . .

Spurs striker Kanoute escapes serious injury (Oct 21, 2003)

Tottenham striker Freddie Kanoute could miss two months after damaging ankle ligaments but X-rays have revealed no break. . . . more . . .

Rangers plot another Ibrox nightmare for Ferguson (Oct 21, 2003)

Homecomings are, almost by definition, emotionally and pyschologically complicated affairs and it is hard to see Sir Alex Ferguson's return to Ibrox in any other terms. . . . more . . .

South Korea stunned by second defeat (Oct 21, 2003)

World Cup semi-finalists South Korea crashed to their second successive defeat in qualifying for next year's Asian Cup when they were beaten 3-1 by Oman. . . . more . . .

Late show Luyindula saves Lyon (Oct 21, 2003)

A goal two minutes from time from substitute Peguy Luyindula gave French champions Lyon a 1-1 draw against Bayern Munich as both sides kept up the pressure in the push for the knockout stages of the Champions League. . . . more . . .

Inter derailed at Lokomotiv (Oct 21, 2003)

Russian champions Lokomotiv Moscow recorded their first win in this season's Champions' League campaign, thrashing visitors Inter Milan 3-0 in their Group B match. . . . more . . .

Ferguson accepts touchline ban (Oct 21, 2003)

Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has decided to accept a two-match touchline ban and 10,000 pound (17,000 dollar) fine. . . . more . . .

Chelsea hopes boosted by Couto absence (Oct 21, 2003)

Chelsea's hopes of pulling off a much-needed Champions League victory at home to Lazio on Wednesday have been boosted by the absence of defender Fernando Couto from the Italian side. . . . more . . .

Tristan ends Monaco's winning streak in Galicia (Oct 21, 2003)

Didier Deschamps' great start to the Champions League took a knock as tricky forward Diego Tristan helped Deportivo La Coruna steal a 1-0 victory over enterprising Monaco. . . . more . . .

New European low for beaten Arsenal (Oct 21, 2003)

Maxim Shatskikh's volleyed goal and a schoolboy error by Arsenal keeper Jens Lehmann earned Dynamo Kiev a 2-1 Champions League victory. . . . more . . .

League chiefs say only FIFA can sanction Barthez's move to Marseille (Oct 21, 2003)

Legal experts at the French football league announced they could not rubber stamp Fabien Barthez's loan deal from Manchester United to Marseille because it is solely a matter for FIFA. . . . more . . .

Dindane reignites Anderlecht bid as Celtic fail to shine (Oct 21, 2003)

Ivory Coast international Aruna Dindane handed ten-man Anderlecht a Champions League lifeline after scoring the only goal in a hard-fought 1-0 win over group A rivals Celtic. . . . more . . .

Hreidarsson strike piles on misery for Rovers (Oct 21, 2003)

Herman Hreidarsson's first goal for two years gave Charlton a 1-0 win against struggling Blackburn Rovers at Ewood Park as the Londoners moved up to seventh place in the Premiership. . . . more . . .

Masterful Juve punish sloppy Sociedad (Oct 21, 2003)

Juventus moved to the brink of the last 16 of the Champions League after defeating Real Sociedad 4-2 to maintain their 100 per cent first phase record. . . . more . . .

Classy Shearer leads Newcastle fightback (Oct 21, 2003)

Former England skipper Alan Shearer scored twice and set up another as Newcastle came back from 2-0 down to beat Fulham 3-2 at Loftus Road in the English Premiership. . . . more . . .

Hreidarsson strike piles on misery for Rovers (Oct 20, 2003)

Ferguson handed touchline ban and hefty fine (Oct 20, 2003)

Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has been handed a two-match touchline ban and a hefty fine after being charged with misconduct by the Football Association. . . . more . . .

Mobile phone record hits Ferdinand defence (Oct 20, 2003)

Rio Ferdinand's defence that he simply forgot to take a routine drugs test and could not be contacted has been hurt by revelations his mobile phone was switched on that fatal day. . . . more . . .

Marseille medical for Barthez (Oct 20, 2003)

France international goalkeeper Fabien Barthez underwent a medical in the hope of completing his loan move from Manchester United to Olympique Marseille. . . . more . . .

Stevens handed two matches to save Hertha job (Oct 20, 2003)

Under-fire Hertha Berlin coach Huub Stevens was handed a stay of execution and told he has just two matches to save his job. . . . more . . .

Soccer chief rules out two-year bans for drug offenders (Oct 20, 2003)

World soccer supremo Sepp Blatter has again come out against the World Anti-Doping Agency's automatic two-year ban for drug offenders. . . . more . . .

Tampa Bay owner ups stake in Man United (Oct 20, 2003)

Malcolm Glazer, owner of Super Bowl champions Tampa Bay, has increased his stake in English Premiership soccer champions Manchester United to almost 10 per cent. . . . more . . .

Bellamy faces sixth operation on damaged knee (Oct 20, 2003)

Newcastle's Welsh international striker Craig Bellamy is to undergo knee surgery for the sixth time in his career, the Premiership club announced. . . . more . . .

Zaccheroni confident of halting Inter's slide (Oct 20, 2003)

New Inter Milan coach Alberto Zaccheroni is confident he can halt the club's slide and put the fallen giants back among Serie A's title contenders. . . . more . . .

Don't panic, Hodgson tells red-faced UAE (Oct 20, 2003)

Veteran English coach Roy Hodgson found himself battling back against the critics after his highly-paid United Arab Emirates team slumped to an embarrassing 1-0 defeat to unheralded Turkmenistan in an Asian Cup qualifier. . . . more . . .

Vieira boost for Arsenal (Oct 20, 2003)

Arsenal have been given a massive boost by the news that skipper Patrick Vieira and Swedish forward Freddie Ljungberg are both fit to play in the vital Champions League game in Kiev. . . . more . . .

Spurs wait on Kanoute (Oct 20, 2003)

Tottenham will find out on Monday if striker Freddie Kanoute will be sidelined with an ankle injury after he left Leicester on crutches. . . . more . . .

Roma stretch unbeaten run in Italy (Oct 19, 2003)

Roma maintained their unbeaten run and kept the pressure on league leaders Juventus with a 2-0 win over Parma here. . . . more . . .

Zaccheroni named as new Inter coach as Cuper is shown the door (Oct 19, 2003)

Alberto Zaccheroni has been named as the new coach of Inter Milan following the sacking of Hector Cuper, club vice-president Giacinto Facchetti said. . . . more . . .

Pirlo pounces to take Milan to the top (Oct 19, 2003)

A scrambled first-half goal by Andrea Pirlo gave AC Milan a 1-0 win against Lazio at the San Siro and took the European champions level on points with Juventus at the top of Serie A. . . . more . . .

Blues miss Rooney in dour draw (Oct 19, 2003)

Everton and Southampton battled each other to a 0-0 stalemate at Goodison Park in a drab performance which made a mockery of both sides' hopes of being serious European contenders this season. . . . more . . .

Houllier shows strain as Liverpool slide accelerates (Oct 19, 2003)

Gerard Houllier faces a fresh crisis of confidence in his reign as Liverpool manager after a third successive defeat left the Reds a huge 12 points off the pace being set by Premiership leaders Arsenal. . . . more . . .

Celtic left sweating over English duo (Oct 19, 2003)

Celtic's five-goal demolition of Hearts consolidated Martin O'Neill's side's lead at the top of the Scottish Premier League but it came at a potentially high price. . . . more . . .

Kanoute's late strike outfoxes Leicester (Oct 19, 2003)

Frederic Kanoute struck a last-minute winner to hand Tottenham a 2-1 win away to bottom-of-the-table Leicester. . . . more . . .

Elber looks to score money from Beckenbauer (Oct 19, 2003)

Brazilian striker Giovane Elber has struck a 10,000-euro (11,580-dollar) bet with Bayern Munich president Franz Beckenbauer that he will come back to haunt his former club with a goal when Lyon host Bayern in Tuesday's Champions League encounter. . . . more . . .

Newcastle negotiate for Kluivert (Oct 19, 2003)

English Premiership side Newcastle United are negotiating to sign Barcelona's disgruntled Dutch striker Patrick Kluivert, the Catalan club admitted. . . . more . . .

Singapore buoy Asian Cup hopes with victory over Palestine (Oct 19, 2003)

Singapore beat Palestine 2-0 in Group B of the Asian Cup football qualifying tournament here, hauling themselves off the foot of the table and fuelling hopes of a second place finish in the group. . . . more . . .

Rummenigge ready to fight FIFA in courts over compensation demand (Oct 19, 2003)

Bayern Munich president Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has threatened to take FIFA to the European Court of Justice if football's world ruling body does not agree to compensate clubs for providing players for the World Cup. . . . more . . .

Mista the man as leaders Valencia thrash Espanyol (Oct 19, 2003)

Unbeaten Valencia returned to the top of the Spanish first division after a hiatus of less than 24 hours after they thrashed Espanyol 4-0. . . . more . . .

Jara and Stevens tread thin ice in Bundesliga (Oct 19, 2003)

Kurt Jara's job at SV Hamburg is hanging by a thread after a 4-0 drubbing by Kaiserslautern at the Fritz-Walter Stadium. . . . more . . .

Stevens clings to post as Bayer go top (Oct 18, 2003)

Hertha Berlin coach Huub Stevens is clinging on to his job after a 4-1 thrashing by Bayer Leverkusen plunged his win-less side to the bottom of the Bundesliga. . . . more . . .

Houllier blasts Liverpool after third straight defeat (Oct 18, 2003)

Gerard Houllier hit out at the quality of Liverpool's finishing as they slumped to a third successive Premiership defeat for the first time in his reign as manager. . . . more . . .

Brazil boys star for Real but Deportivo go top (Oct 18, 2003)

Brazilian World Cup winners Ronaldo and Roberto Carlos claimed a goal apiece to give Real Madrid a 2-0 victory at Celta Vigo but Deportivo became the Spanish league leaders after they also won 2-0 at Barcelona. . . . more . . .

Marlet criticises Marseille move for Barthez (Oct 18, 2003)

Marseille's French international midfielder Steve Marlet criticised the way the club have gone about signing Manchester United goalkeeper Fabien Barthez. . . . more . . .

Captain Keane breaks down Leeds (Oct 18, 2003)

Roy Keane's unrivalled will to win triumphed over Leeds' dogged defensiveness as Manchester United turned the screw on Premiership title rivals Arsenal and Chelsea here. . . . more . . .

Savage calls truce with derby rival Dublin (Oct 18, 2003)

Birmingham City midfielder Robbie Savage said there will be no hard feelings against Aston Villa's Dion Dublin on Sunday when the two players face off in the Midlands derby at St Andrew's. . . . more . . .

Chelsea suffer as Cudicini blunder leaves Gunners top (Oct 18, 2003)

A shocking error by Chelsea goalkeeper Carlo Cudicini handed Thierry Henry the chance to fire Arsenal back to the top of the Premiership with a 2-1 victory. . . . more . . .

Stuttgart can lift Bundesliga crown says Elber (Oct 18, 2003)

Giovane Elber believes his former club VfB Stuttgart have what it takes to usurp Bayern Munich as German champions. . . . more . . .

Wilkinson steers England to victory over Springboks (Oct 18, 2003)

England star Jonny Wilkinson scored 20 points as the World Cup co-favourites overcame a ferocious performance from South Africa to win 25-6 at Subiaco Oval here. . . . more . . .

Brazil boys bag the points for Real (Oct 18, 2003)

Brazilian World Cup winners Ronaldo and Roberto Carlos were on target claiming a goal apiece in Real Madrid's 2-0 victory at Celta Vigo. . . . more . . .

Beckham's improving but Brazil boys bag the points for Real (Oct 18, 2003)

Brazilian World Cup winners Ronaldo and Roberto Carlos claimed a goal apiece to give Real Madrid a 2-0 victory at Celta Vigo. . . . more . . .

Merciless Juve pile misery on Ancona to go top (Oct 18, 2003)

Reigning champions Juventus showed Ancona no mercy, defeating the bottom club 3-2 to take sole possession of top spot in Serie A. . . . more . . .

Real to post healthy finances at weekend general assembly (Oct 17, 2003)

Real Madrid expect to maintain their recent policy of landing a superstar each season amid media reports which stated the club would for the first time post higher revenue then spending at Sunday's general assembly on the back of aggressive marketing. . . . more . . .