Archive soccer news from around the world
Celtic in bid to sign Yorke on loan (Aug 31, 2004)
Celtic were engaged in negotiations with Blackburn striker Dwight Yorke aimed at bringing the Trinidad and Tobago international to Parkhead. . . . more . . .
Butt worry for England as World Cup qualifier looms (Aug 31, 2004)
Nicky Butt could be doubtful for England's World Cup qualifier in Austria on Saturday after missing the squad's first training session with a hamstring problem. . . . more . . .
Woodward set to switch codes and become football coach (Aug 31, 2004)
England coach Clive Woodward has stunned the rugby and football establishment after it was reported he is looking to walk away from rugby to become a football coach. . . . more . . .
Schalke's Brazilian striker Ailton suspended for four matches (Aug 31, 2004)
Schalke 04's Brazilian striker Ailton has been suspended for four matches and fined 15,000 euros for striking an opposition player and nearly missing a random drugs test, the German Football Federation's sports tribunal said. . . . more . . .
Middlesbrough's McClaren rules out replacing sacked Robson (Aug 31, 2004)
Middlesbrough coach Steve McClaren ruled himself out of replacing sacked Newcastle manager Bobby Robson. . . . more . . .
England teenage sensation Rooney joins United (Aug 31, 2004)
Manchester United completed the signing of England teenage sensation Wayne Rooney from Everton on a six-year contract in a deal worth up to 27 million pounds (40 million euros). . . . more . . .
Capello finally lures Ibrahimovic, to Juventus (Aug 31, 2004)
Juventus have signed Swedish striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic from Dutch giants Ajax, according to Italian agency ANSA. . . . more . . .
Butt ruled out for England as World Cup qualifier looms (Aug 31, 2004)
Nicky Butt has been ruled out of England's World Cup qualifier in Austria on Saturday with a hamstring injury and is doubtful for next Wednesday's trip to Poland. . . . more . . .
Everton chasing FC Porto's McCarthy (Aug 31, 2004)
English Premiership side Everton are in talks with European champions FC Porto for South African striker Benny McCarthy, private radio TSF reported. . . . more . . .
Voller to take the reins at Roma (Aug 31, 2004)
Former German national coach Rudi Voller will take the reins at Roma for one year with a salary of 2.7 million euros (3.3 million dollars), the first-division Italian club said. . . . more . . .
Wiltord signs with Lyon for two years (Aug 31, 2004)
French international and former Arsenal striker Sylvain Wiltord has signed a two-year contract with Lyon, the French first division club said. . . . more . . .
Inamoto completes move to West Brom (Aug 31, 2004)
Japan international midfielder Junichi Inamoto has been snapped up by West Bromwich Albion. . . . more . . .
Rooney set to become United player (Aug 31, 2004)
Wayne Rooney was finally set to become a Manchester United player after his current club Everton confirmed he was undergoing a medical at United's Carrington training ground. . . . more . . .
Captain Vieira fit for France's World Cup qualifier with Israel (Aug 31, 2004)
France captain Patrick Vieira said he was fit to play against Israel in the 2006 World Cup qualifier this weekend. . . . more . . .
Voller in final talks with Roma (Aug 31, 2004)
Former German national coach Rudi Voller is in talks with first division Italian club Roma, the German press reported. . . . more . . .
Angulo does u-turn on Arsenal deal to re-sign for Valencia (Aug 31, 2004)
Valencia midfielder Miguel Angel Angulo has done a mysterious u-turn on an expected move to Premiership giants Arsenal and re-signed a four-year deal with his Spanish club. . . . more . . .
United agree deal to sign Rooney (Aug 31, 2004)
Wayne Rooney was on his way to Manchester United after the club confirmed it had agreed a transfer fee with his current club Everton. . . . more . . .
United finally get their hands on Rooney (Aug 31, 2004)
Manchester United finally got their hands on Wayne Rooney after nearly a week a tense negotiations concluded with the club agreeing a transfer fee with his current club Everton. . . . more . . .
Inter's Cannavaro signs for Juventus (Aug 31, 2004)
Italy captain Fabio Cannavaro has completed his move from Inter Milan to Serie A rivals Juventus, it was reported. . . . more . . .
Sacking Robson was tough, says Newcastle chairman Shepherd (Aug 31, 2004)
Newcastle United chairman Freddy Shepherd said sacking coach Bobby Robson was one of the toughest decisions he has had to make. . . . more . . .
Moyes mum on Rooney transfer to Man Utd (Aug 30, 2004)
With just a day before the transfer window closes, Everton manager David Moyes kept mum on the chances of striker Wayne Rooney signing for Manchester United. . . . more . . .
Valencia's Angulo heads for Highbury (Aug 30, 2004)
Valencia forward Miguel Angel Angulo headed for London to sign a four-year deal worth five million euros with English Premiership champions Arsenal, club officials said. . . . more . . .
Newcastle sack Robson (Aug 30, 2004)
Newcastle United have sacked their manager, Sir Bobby Robson, effectively ending the career of one of the most respected and best-loved figures in English football. . . . more . . .
Robson 'relieved of duties' at Newcastle (Aug 30, 2004)
Newcastle United have sacked their manager Bobby Robson. . . . more . . .
In-form Defoe gets England call-up (Aug 30, 2004)
England coach Sven-Goran Erikkson has rewarded Tottenham's young striker Jermaine Defoe for his bright start to the season with a place in the England squad for next month''s World Cup qualifiers. . . . more . . .
Baggies capture Earnshaw (Aug 30, 2004)
Premiership newcomers West Brom completed the club record signing of Wales striker Robert Earnshaw from Cardiff for three million pounds. . . . more . . .
Houllier installed as favourite to succeed Robson (Aug 30, 2004)
Gerard Houllier was installed as the early favourite to succeed Sir Bobby Robson as Newcastle manager. . . . more . . .
Pompey sign Kamara from Modena (Aug 30, 2004)
Portsmouth have completed the signing of Senegalese striker Diomansy Kamara from Italian club Modena, the club announced. . . . more . . .
It will take four months to get it right says Benitez (Aug 30, 2004)
Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez said it will take up to four months before they have a strong team following their 1-0 Premiership defeat at Bolton where their Spanish debutants were on show. . . . more . . .
France's World Cup winning coach Jacquet criticises retirements (Aug 30, 2004)
France's 1998 World Cup winning coach Aime Jacquet criticised the international retirements of key players after Euro 2004, saying they should have given a helping hand to new coach Raymond Domenech. . . . more . . .
Portsmouth win seven goal thriller (Aug 30, 2004)
Portsmouth beat Fulham 4-3 in a fast-paced Premiership match here with countless chances for either side though question marks surrounded the quality of both defences. . . . more . . .
Voller in final talks with Roma (Aug 30, 2004)
Former German national coach Rudi Voller is in talks with first division Italian club Roma, the German press reported. . . . more . . .
Newcastle sack Robson: report (Aug 30, 2004)
Newcastle United have sacked manager Bobby Robson, according to press reports. . . . more . . .
Battling Everton leave United trailing title rivals (Aug 30, 2004)
Manchester United's Premiership title challenge took a nosedive when they were held to a 0-0 draw by Everton. . . . more . . .
Language of goals what counts for tongue-tied Ronnie and Michael (Aug 30, 2004)
England striker Michael Owen said his lack of Spanish and Ronaldo's lack of English did not hinder celebrations of the Brazilian's matchwinner for Real Madrid in Sunday's 1-0 win at Mallorca. . . . more . . .
England veterans facing the squeeze as Eriksson builds for 2006 (Aug 30, 2004)
England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson has signalled a changing of the guard by leaving veterans Emile Heskey and Phil Neville out of his squad for their next two World Cup qualifiers. . . . more . . .
Dhorasoo and Saha replace injured Diarra and Trezeguet in French squad (Aug 30, 2004)
France coach Raymond Domenech has called on midfielder Vikash Dhorasoo and forward Louis Saha to replace the injured Alou Diarra and David Trezeguet, the French team management said. . . . more . . .
Rooney slams sticky Toffees as Man Utd set transfer in motion (Aug 29, 2004)
Everton striker Wayne Rooney has slammed his club's handling of the transfer request that is likely to see him in a Manchester United shirt before Tuesday afternoon. . . . more . . .
Celtic in seventh heaven as Thompson strike clinches win against Gers (Aug 29, 2004)
Celtic clinched their seventh consecutive win against Rangers with a 1-0 win at Parkhead courtesy of a late Alan Thompson strike. . . . more . . .
PSG league woes continue (Aug 29, 2004)
Paris Saint Germain continued their poor start to the 2004/05 season with a 2-2 draw at home to St Etienne at the Parc des Princes here. . . . more . . .
Lazio fail in loan bid for Swiss star Yakin (Aug 29, 2004)
Italian giants Lazio have failed in a bid to lure VfB Stuttgart's Swiss international Hakan Yakin to Rome on loan. . . . more . . .
Wigley vows to ensure Beattie stays a Saint (Aug 29, 2004)
Southampton's caretaker boss Steve Wigley has vowed to keep James Beattie on the south coast despite reports that Everton will use the money raised by the sale of Wayne Rooney to fund a six million pound bid for the big striker. . . . more . . .
Former Scotland coach Brown leaves Preston North End (Aug 29, 2004)
Former Scotland coach Craig Brown has been forced out of Preston North End following a string of poor results that have left the Championship club fifth from bottom of the league. . . . more . . .
Bayern crushed by Leverkusen, Wolves devour Bremen (Aug 29, 2004)
Bayer Leverkusen had not beaten Bayern Munich for almost two years but changed that statistic in style after crushing Felix Magath's side 4-1 to take top spot in the Bundesliga. . . . more . . .
Rooney on his way to Old Trafford as United raise bid (Aug 29, 2004)
Wayne Rooney looks set to become a Manchester United player this week after Everton confirmed they had received a second improved bid for the England striker from Old Trafford. . . . more . . .
Liverpool slip up at Bolton (Aug 29, 2004)
Liverpool's Spanish debutants failed to shine as, courtesy of a Kevin Davies strike, Bolton continued to prove last season's top-half finish was no fluke with a comfortable 1-0 win here. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo poaches the points as Owen tastes first action with Real (Aug 29, 2004)
England striker Michael Owen got his first taste of Spanish league action, coming on midway through the first half for Real Madrid colleague Raul in his new club's opening match against Real Mallorca. . . . more . . .
Robson defends decision to leave out Shearer (Aug 29, 2004)
Newcastle manager Bobby Robson stoutly defended his decision to leave out Alan Shearer from their 4-2 Premiership defeat at Aston Villa and insisted he had merely been rested and not dropped. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo poaches the points as Owen tastes first Real action (Aug 29, 2004)
Michael Owen made a telling contribution as he came off the bench for his first taste of life in the Spanish league to provide the spadework for a Ronaldo finish as Real Madrid opened their season by poaching a 1-0 win at Mallorca. . . . more . . .
Wenger warns against complacency as Gunners extend record at Norwich (Aug 29, 2004)
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger was quick to guard against complacency despite easily extending their unbeaten league record to 44 games after beating Norwich 4-1 at Carrow Road. . . . more . . .
Wolves end their Seol searching (Aug 28, 2004)
Wolverhampton have completed the signing of South Korea's Ki-Hyeon Seol after the World Cup star passed a medical at Molineux and received a work permit. . . . more . . .
Galactic starbursts to light up Spain as Real chase redemption (Aug 28, 2004)
Galactic starbursts a-plenty are in the offing when the Spanish league season opens this weekend with Real Madrid, the world's most flamboyant club, determined to banish memories of their flops last time out by landing silverware this time round. . . . more . . .
Gunners and Chelsea march on as United falter (Aug 28, 2004)
Arsenal and Chelsea extended their winning starts to the Premiership campaign to four matches, cranking up the early season pressure on faltering Manchester United. . . . more . . .
Judge postpones decision on Maradona's travel abroad (Aug 28, 2004)
An Argentine judge said he had postponed a decision on whether Argentine football legend Diego Maradona can travel abroad to continue treatment for his cocaine addiction. . . . more . . .
United raise bid for Rooney (Aug 28, 2004)
Wayne Rooney appeared to be on his way to Manchester United after Everton confirmed that they had received a second improved bid for the England striker from Old Trafford. . . . more . . .
Bullish Torres hands Atletico winning start in Spain (Aug 28, 2004)
Atletico Madrid got off to a winning start as the Spanish league reopened for business, an own goal from visiting keeper Juan Calatayud and a clincher from hot property Fernando Torres bringing a 2-0 home success over Malaga. . . . more . . .
Champions Lyon have double celebration (Aug 28, 2004)
Reigning champions Lyon had a good day with a 1-0 home victory over Lille at the Gerland stadium and announcing the news young Brazilian international striker Nilmar will be joining the club. . . . more . . .
Liverpool great Rush returns to roots (Aug 28, 2004)
Liverpool great Ian Rush has been appointed manager of Chester City in a bid to help them get off the foot of the League Two table. . . . more . . .
Old boy Lucio looks to end Bayer's unbeaten run (Aug 28, 2004)
Brazilian World Cup winner Lucio can expect a hostile reception when he makes his first return to the BayArena since joining Bayern Munich from Bayer Leverkusen in a 12-million-euro deal during the close season. . . . more . . .
Chelsea march on as United falter (Aug 28, 2004)
Chelsea recovered from the shock of going a goal down after only 12 seconds to beat Southampton 2-1 and extend their winning start to the season to four matches. . . . more . . .
Smith gets United out of gaol (Aug 28, 2004)
Alan Smith added to his rapidly burdgeoning status as a Manchester United hero with a controversial injury-time equaliser to salvage a point against ten-man Blackburn. . . . more . . .
Lucio and Bayern crushed by four-star Leverkusen (Aug 28, 2004)
Bayer Leverkusen had not beaten Bayern Munich for almost two years but changed that statistic in style after crushing Felix Magath's side 4-1 to take top spot in the Bundesliga. . . . more . . .
Liverpool's Spanish armada can conquer Premiership says Garcia (Aug 28, 2004)
Spaniard Luis Garcia only joined Liverpool last week - but he already believes that the new-look squad assembled by Rafael Benitez can break the domination of the Premiership's big three. . . . more . . .
Tevez ends Argentina's long wait for Olympic gold (Aug 28, 2004)
Argentina's footballers won their country's first Olympic Games gold medal for 52 years with a 1-0 win over South American rivals Paraguay in a bruising final. . . . more . . .
Tevez goal gives Argentina Olympic victory (Aug 28, 2004)
Argentina's footballers won their country's first Olympic Games gold medal for 52 years with a 1-0 win over South American rivals Paraguay in a bruising final. . . . more . . .
United looks to young guns to keep Arsenal and Chelsea in firing range (Aug 28, 2004)
Wayne Rooney is not the only youngster generating a buzz of excitement around Old Trafford at the moment. . . . more . . .
Spanish era dawns for Liverpool (Aug 28, 2004)
Liverpool's new Spanish-flavoured era begins in earnest on Sunday with Xabi Alonso and Luis Garcia set to make their debuts in the Premiership clash with on-form Bolton. . . . more . . .
It's all change at new-look Valencia (Aug 28, 2004)
On the face off it there should have been little tinkering to do this season at Valencia, who powered their way to the Spanish league title and the UEFA Cup for good measure last time round. . . . more . . .
Cisse uninjured after collision with police car (Aug 28, 2004)
Liverpool striker Djibril Cisse was left "shaken but uninjured" after he was involved in a crash with a police car, the club revealed. . . . more . . .
Scots get striker boost as World Cup qualifiers loom (Aug 27, 2004)
Scotland have been given a boost by the return of strikers Kevin Kyle and Paul Dickov to the squad for next week's friendly in Spain, and the opening World Cup qualifier against Slovenia on September 8. . . . more . . .
Iraq refuse to wear black armbands in bronze medal match (Aug 27, 2004)
Iraq's footballers have refused to join their Olympic bronze medal opponents Italy in donning black armbands as a mark of respect for murdered Italian journalist Enzo Baldoni. . . . more . . .
Traore crosses Liverpool divide to join Everton (Aug 27, 2004)
French defender Djimi Traore has joined Everton from Merseyside rivals Liverpool in a 1.5-million-pound deal, the two clubs announced. . . . more . . .
Sibneft denies conflict of interest betweeen CSKA and Chelsea (Aug 27, 2004)
Russian oil giant Sibneft rejected any suggestion of a conflict of interest existing between Chelsea and CSKA Moscow who are due to meet in the Champions League. . . . more . . .
It's back to the future for Mourinho and Larsson (Aug 27, 2004)
The Champions League group stages will take two of European football's biggest personalities - Jose Mourinho and Henrik Larsson - back to their old stomping grounds quicker than either might have expected. . . . more . . .
Prandelli steps down from Roma, Voller waiting in the wings (Aug 27, 2004)
Cesare Prandelli has stepped down as coach of Italian top flight side AS Roma, according to reports which also said that former Germany coach Rudi Voller is ready to step in. . . . more . . .
Rooney hands in transfer request (Aug 27, 2004)
Wayne Rooney formally asked Everton for a transfer in a move that will help clear the way for the 18-year-old England forward to join Manchester United. . . . more . . .
Schmeichel urges Rooney to choose Old Trafford (Aug 27, 2004)
Former Manchester United keeper Peter Schmeichel has urged Wayne Rooney to choose Manchester United over Newcastle if it is silverware and glory he seeks. . . . more . . .
Fitting farewell for America's golden girl (Aug 27, 2004)
American superstar Mia Hamm was given the perfect send-off as the United States rode their luck to beat Brazil in extra-time and win the Olympic women's football gold medal for the second time in eight years. . . . more . . .
UEFA Cup first round draw (Aug 27, 2004)
UEFA Cup first round draw made here on Friday: Graz AK (AUT) v Lovetch (BUL) Lazio (ITA) v Metalurg Donetsk (UKR) Bodo-Glimt (NOR) v Besiktas (TUR) Shelbourne (IRL) v Lille (FRA) Hearts (SCO) v Braga (POR) Austria Vienna (AUT) v Legia Warsaw (POL) Dukla Banska Bystrica (SVK) v Benfica (POR) Partizan Belgrade (SEM) v Dinamo Bucarest (ROM) Parma (ITA) v Maribor (SLO) Real Zaragoza (SPA) v Sigma Olomouc (CZE) Sporting Lisbon (POR) v Rapid Vienna (AUT) Newcastle United (ENG) v Hapoel Bnei Sakhnin (ISR) Steaua Bucarest (ROM) v CSKA Sofia (BUL) Wisla Krakow (POL) v Dinamo Tbilisi (GEO) Utrecht (NED) v Djurgaarden (SWE) Millwall (ENG) v Ferencvaros (HUN) Schalke 04 (GER) v Liepajas Metalurgs (LAT) Maccabi Haifa (ISR) v Dniepropetrovsk (UKR) Terek Grozny (RUS) v FC Basel (SWI) Odd Grenland (NOR) v Feyenoord (NED) Aalborg BK (DEN) v Auxerre (FRA) FC Seville (SPA) v Nacional (POR) NK Gorica (SLO) v AEK Athens (GRE) Standard Liege (BEL) v Bochum (GER) Red Star Belgrade (SEM) v Zenit St Petersbourg (RUS) Trabzonspor (TUR) v Athletic Bilbao (SPA) Ujpest (HUN) v VfB Stuttgart (GER) Maccabi Petach-Tikva (ISR) v Heerenveen (NED) Panionios (GRE) v Udinese (ITA) Levski Sofia (BUL) v Beveren (BEL) Dinamo Zagreb (CRO) v IF Elfsborg (SWE) Hafnarfjoerdur (ICL) v Alemannia Aachen (GER) Middlesbrough (ENG) v Banik Ostrava (CZE) FC Bruges (BEL) v Chateauroux (FRA) Paok Salonika (GRE) v Alkmaar (NED) Ventspils (LAT) v Amica Wronki (POL) Sochaux (FRA) v Stabaek (NOR) Egaleo (GRE) v Genclerbirligi (TUR) Rangers (SCO) v Maritimo Funchal (POR) Villarreal CF (SPA) v Hammarby (SWE) NB: 40 qualified teams contend a group phase composed of eight groups of five, from October 21 to December 16. . . . more . . .
Drogba boost for Chelsea (Aug 27, 2004)
Didier Drogba has been declared fit to play in Chelsea's Premiership clash with Southampton on Saturday after overcoming an ankle injury. . . . more . . .
Bastia's Vairelles shoots Bastia to the top in France (Aug 27, 2004)
Substitute Tony Vairelles shot Bastia to the top of the French league championship after his late goal earned a 1-1 draw at Nice. . . . more . . .
Djemba-Djemba sets sights on filling Keane's boots (Aug 27, 2004)
Eric Djemba-Djemba believes he can fill the void left in Manchester United's midfield by the absence of captain Roy Keane. . . . more . . .
Celebrations muted as sombre Italy take bronze medal (Aug 27, 2004)
Italy denied Iraq their first Olympic medal for 44 years by winning the men's football third place match 1-0, but in truth nobody really cared. . . . more . . .
Saviola looks set for Monaco move (Aug 27, 2004)
Barcelona striker Javier Saviola's one-year loan deal to Monaco became more likely as discussions between the Catalan club and the French league side continued, a Monaco club source said. . . . more . . .
Real love affair not over for Figo - as Solari stays put (Aug 27, 2004)
Portugese midfielder Luis Figo said his love affair with Spanish giants Real Madrid was not over as he looked forward to his club's opening league encounter at Mallorca. . . . more . . .
UEFA Cup pitches Newcastle against Arab Israelis (Aug 27, 2004)
Last season's UEFA Cup semi-finalists Newcastle United have drawn Arab Israeli side Hapoel Bnei Sakhnin in the first round of this season's second-tier European club competition. . . . more . . .
Everton primed for Rooney decision (Aug 26, 2004)
Everton were set to respond to Manchester United's offer for Wayne Rooney after the Old Trafford club joined Newcastle in the race to snap up the England striker. . . . more . . .
UEFA to investigate links between Abramovich and CSKA Moscow (Aug 26, 2004)
European football's governing body UEFA are set to launch an investigation into a possible connection between Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich and CSKA Moscow after the clubs were both drawn in Group H of the Champions League. . . . more . . .
Dutch goalie Waterreus signs for Manchester City (Aug 26, 2004)
Dutch goalkeeper Ronald Waterreus has signed a five-month contract with English Premiership club Manchester City. . . . more . . .
Bayern not afraid of Juve and Ajax says Magath (Aug 26, 2004)
Bayern Munich manager Felix Magath confessed his club had been handed a tough Champions League draw but insisted Bayern would go into the Group C matches with nothing to fear. . . . more . . .
Mourinho to face former charges Porto in Champions League (Aug 26, 2004)
New Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho will travel back to face FC Porto, with whom he won last season's Champions League, for this year's first group stage of the premier European football tournament. . . . more . . .
Roma chasing Swedish international Ibrahimovic (Aug 26, 2004)
Italian giants Roma have made an offer to Amsterdam Ajax for their Swedish international forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Italian sports newspaper Corriere dello sport reported. . . . more . . .
Hamm goes out on a high as America strike gold (Aug 26, 2004)
The United States won the Olympic women's football gold medal here after beating Brazil 2-1 in extra-time at the Karaiskaki stadium. . . . more . . .
Yakubu extends Portsmouth contract until 2007 (Aug 26, 2004)
Portsmouth striker Yakubu Aiyegbeni has extended his contract with the English Premiership club until the summer of 2007. . . . more . . .
O'Neill curses luck of the draw as Larsson heads back to Parkhead (Aug 26, 2004)
Celtic boss Martin O'Neill was left cursing his luck after the Champions League draw ensured Hoops legend Henrik Larsson will be heading back to Parkhead with his new employers, Barcelona. . . . more . . .
Leverkusen keen on Schweinsteiger loan deal (Aug 26, 2004)
Champions League hopefuls Bayer Leverkusen admitted they are looking to take German international midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger on loan from rivals Bayern Munich. . . . more . . .
Keane out for three weeks (Aug 26, 2004)
Manchester United captain Roy Keane will be out of action for at least three weeks after fracturing two ribs. . . . more . . .
Wenger salutes "amazing" Arsenal as Henry rewrites history (Aug 26, 2004)
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger hailed his side's record-breaking unbeaten run as "amazing" and then demanded his team never let their guard drop. . . . more . . .
Everton sit tight as Rooney bids rise (Aug 26, 2004)
Manchester United will have to find at least 25 million pounds to prise Wayne Rooney away from Everton after their initial bid of 20 million was formally rebuffed. . . . more . . .
Everton rejected Rooney bids from United and Newcastle (Aug 26, 2004)
Everton rejected a 20-million-pound bid for Wayne Rooney from Manchester United as well as one of 23.5 million from Newcastle. . . . more . . .
Henry sends Arsenal in to history (Aug 26, 2004)
Thierry Henry ensured Arsenal's place in history when they broke Nottingham Forest's 26-year-old record of 42 English league matches unbeaten by defeating Blackburn Rovers 3-0 at Highbury here. . . . more . . .
Marseille's Mido out for two weeks (Aug 25, 2004)
Marseille's Egyptian attacker, Ahmed Hossam, known as Mido, will be out for two weeks due to a groin injury, coach Jose Anigo said. . . . more . . .
Referee denies double yellow blunder (Aug 25, 2004)
The Spanish referee in Liverpool's Champions League qualifier has denied that he issued two yellow cards to Graz AK captain Rene Aufhauser then failed to send him off. . . . more . . .
Manchester make bid for Rooney (Aug 25, 2004)
Manchester United have made a bid for teenage sensation Wayne Rooney, officials of the Premiership club confirmed. . . . more . . .
Henry sends Arsenal in to history (Aug 25, 2004)
Thierry Henry ensured Arsenal's place in history when they broke Nottingham Forest's 26-year-old record of 42 English league matches unbeaten when they defeated Blackburn Rovers 3-0 at Highbury here. . . . more . . .
Keane out for three weeks (Aug 25, 2004)
Manchester United's injury crisis deepened when captain Roy Keane was ruled out of action for at least three weeks with fractured ribs. . . . more . . .
Boro defender Reiziger out for up to eight weeks (Aug 25, 2004)
Newly-signed Middlesborough defender Michael Reiziger will be out for up to eight weeks with an injured shoulder that needs surgery. . . . more . . .
Rangers crash out of Champions League against CSKA Moscow (Aug 25, 2004)
Rangers failed to qualify for the Champions League after being held to a 1-1 draw at home to CSKA Moscow here. . . . more . . .
United double their money on Smith (Aug 25, 2004)
Alan Smith repaid the seven million pounds he cost Manchester United with generous interest as Alex Ferguson's side marched into the money-spinning group phase of the Champions League on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Rejuvenated Leverkusen resurface in the Champions League (Aug 25, 2004)
Bayer Leverkusen fans have been on an almighty rollercoaster ride over the past two years but experienced another high when qualification for the Champions League was achieved despite a 2-1 defeat by Czech side Banik Ostrava. . . . more . . .
Juninho eyes bright future for Celtic in Europe (Aug 25, 2004)
Celtic's new signing Juninho has tipped the Scottish giants to go further than they've ever gone before in the European Champions League this season. . . . more . . .
Deschamps delighted but Benitez left red-faced at Anfield (Aug 25, 2004)
Monaco, last year's beaten Champions League finalists, gave an indication of their early form with a 6-0 drubbing of Slovenian side Nova Gorica to coast into the lucrative group stages of the competition. . . . more . . .
Established order in Europe respected (Aug 25, 2004)
Euro giants Real Madrid, Juventus and Manchester United qualified for the European champions League groups stages as the established order in European football was respected. . . . more . . .
Gentile laments poor preparation as Argentina outclass Italy (Aug 25, 2004)
Italy coach Claudio Gentile said his football team's poor preparation played a major part in their crushing 3-0 Olympic semi-final defeat to Argentina. . . . more . . .
Benitez backs Kewell as Reds stumble into Champions League (Aug 25, 2004)
Rafael Benitez has backed Harry Kewell to be a major figure in his new-look Liverpool despite another unconvincing performance from the Australian as the Reds stumbled into the group stages of the Champions League. . . . more . . .
Chelsea starting to show sparkle (Aug 25, 2004)
Chelsea assistant manager Steve Clarke believes the Blues are getting closer to playing the sort of football expected of the Premiership big spenders. . . . more . . .
Two coaches and international suspended after match fixing inquiry (Aug 25, 2004)
Former Porto coach Luigi Del Neri and Italian international Stefano Bettarini have been suspended for five months after a match fixing inquiry, the Italian Football Federation announced. . . . more . . .
Madrid deny Figo approach by Tottenham (Aug 25, 2004)
Premiership club Tottenham have not made an offer to sign Portuguese midfield maestro Luis Figo, Spanish giants Real Madrid said in a statement. . . . more . . .
Record-breaking Arsenal back on top (Aug 25, 2004)
Arsenal had double cause for celebration as their 3-0 defeat of Blackburn broke Nottingham Forest's 26-year-old record of 42 games undefeated and put them back on top of the Premiership. . . . more . . .
Real worries for England as Owen and Beckham ordered to play friendly (Aug 25, 2004)
David Beckham and Michael Owen will run the risk of injuries that could force them out of England's opening World Cup qualifiers because Real Madrid are insisting they play in a pre-season friendly next week. . . . more . . .
Danish professionals suspend strike against FIFA transfer rules (Aug 25, 2004)
Danish footballers temporarily suspended their week-long strike action in protest at a rule by the game's ruling body FIFA concerning the transfer of players under 23 years old. . . . more . . .
Stress factor threatens Iraq's bronze ambition (Aug 25, 2004)
Iraq coach Adnan Hamd has warned his weary footballers that Olympic Games stagefright is threatening their dreams of delivering a bronze medal to their country for the first time since 1960. . . . more . . .
Liverpool survive red alert to squeeze into Champions League (Aug 24, 2004)
Rafael Benitez's first European night at Anfield ended with the ignominy of a brief chorus of boos echoing round the famous old stadium after Liverpool succumbed to an embarrassing 1-0 defeat by AK Graz. . . . more . . .
Inter brush Basel aside (Aug 24, 2004)
Two goals from Adriano lifted Inter Milan past Swiss side Basel and into the lucrative group stages of the Champions League. . . . more . . .
New Southampton coach calls for player backing (Aug 24, 2004)
Southampton's new head coach Steve Wigley has called on his players to show they are one hundred percent behind him by winning against Bolton on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Middlesbrough's Juninho completes signing with Celtic (Aug 24, 2004)
Juninho's transfer from Middlesbrough to Celtic has been completed and the Brazilian World Cup playmaker could be available for the Old Firm derby with Rangers on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Carrick eyes bright future at Spurs (Aug 24, 2004)
Tottenham's new signing, England international midfielder Michael Carrick, said the Premiership club had a "very bright future". . . . more . . .
FC Porto's Diego, Derlei to miss European Super Cup (Aug 24, 2004)
FC Porto will be without Brazilian duo Diego da Cunha and Gilberto Derlei during the European Super Cup match against Valencia in Monaco on Friday because both players are recovering from injuries, a club spokesman said Tuesday. . . . more . . .
Monaco's Porato signs with Ajaccio (Aug 24, 2004)
Monaco goalkeeper Stephane Porato has signed a two-year contract with French first-division rivals Ajaccio, the Corsican club president Michel Moretti revealed. . . . more . . .
Carrick eyes bright future for Spurs and more England caps (Aug 24, 2004)
Tottenham's new signing, England international midfielder Michael Carrick, said the London Premiership club had a "very bright future", and had targeted winning more international caps. . . . more . . .
Deportivo end Champions League dream for Shelbourne (Aug 24, 2004)
Irish eyes were left decidedly unsmiling when Shelbourne's dream of reaching the lucrative group stages of the Champions League was ended by three second half goals from Deportivo La Coruna. . . . more . . .
Brazil's Derlei to become Portuguese citizen (Aug 24, 2004)
Brazilian-born striker Derlei has followed the footsteps of his former teammate Deco and is close to acquiring Portuguese citizenship, opening the door for the FC Porto star to join Portugal's national squad in time for the campaign for the 2006 World Cup. . . . more . . .
Arsenal gunning for record (Aug 24, 2004)
Arsenal will rewrite Premiership history if they avoid defeat against Blackburn on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Ferguson looks to Smith to brighten up Dinamo challenge (Aug 24, 2004)
Manchester United coach Alex Ferguson is looking to in-form striker Alan Smith to lead his depleted side into the lucrative group stage of the European champions league in the home match against Dinamo Bucharest on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Chase for Rooney is far from over says Robson (Aug 24, 2004)
Newcastle's bid to persuade Everton to part with teenage striker Wayne Rooney is far from over, according to Magpies manager Sir Bobby Robson. . . . more . . .
Bolton sign Nigerian Kaku (Aug 24, 2004)
Nigeria international Blessing Kaku has signed a three-year contract with Bolton, becoming manager Sam Allardyce's ninth signing of the new season. . . . more . . .
Wanchope set for Malaga (Aug 24, 2004)
Manchester City's Costa Rican international striker Paulo Wanchope is set to move to Spanish club Malaga. . . . more . . .
Argentina on course to end 52-year gold medal drought (Aug 24, 2004)
Argentina remain on course to claim their first Olympic gold medal for 52 years after their men's football team thrashed Italy 3-0 in the semi-finals here. . . . more . . .
Rangers coach calls on fans to back spurned Australian Olympian (Aug 24, 2004)
Rangers coach Alex McLeish has called on fans to back the likely return of Australian Olympian Craig Moore for the crucial Champions league return leg against CSKA Moscow here. . . . more . . .
Iraq's dream Olympic football run ends against Paraguay (Aug 24, 2004)
Iraq's fairytale run in the Olympic football tournament ground to a shuddering halt in the shape of a 3-1 semi-final defeat to Paraguay. . . . more . . .
Monaco hit six to coast into Champions League group stages (Aug 24, 2004)
Didier Deschamps saw his Monaco side, finalists in the competition last season, coast into the lucrative group stages of the Champions League with a 6-0 drubbing of Slovenian side Nova Gorica. . . . more . . .
Heskey announces his arrival at Birmingham in powerful fashion (Aug 24, 2004)
Emile Heskey repaid some of the faith shown in him by manager Steve Bruce by recording his first goal for the club to register Birmingham City's first victory of the season in a 1-0 success. . . . more . . .
Drogba off the mark for Chelsea (Aug 24, 2004)
Jose Mourinho's Chelsea revolution finally seems to be gathering pace as his expensively-assembled side returned to the top of the Premiership table with a comfortable 2-0 victory over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park. . . . more . . .
Bruce anxiously awaiting results of Heskey injury (Aug 24, 2004)
Birmingham City manager Steve Bruce is anxiously awaiting the verdict on Emile Heskey's ankle injury which took the gloss of the club's first win of the season against Manchester City. . . . more . . .
Rangers prepare for make or break Euro tie (Aug 24, 2004)
Rangers' Champions League qualifier match against CSKA Moscow on Wednesday will be their most important of the season, according to boss Alex McLeish. . . . more . . .
Chelsea starting to show sparkle (Aug 24, 2004)
Chelsea assistant manager Steve Clarke believes the Londoners are getting closer to playing the sort of football expected of the Premiership big spenders. . . . more . . .
Everton board meeting postponed (Aug 23, 2004)
Everton's path to financial stability hit a snag with the postponement of a board meeting which was due to unveil their new Russian investor. . . . more . . .
United States beat world champions Germany to reach football final (Aug 23, 2004)
The United States are just one match away from farewelling their ageing football heroines with an Olympic gold medal after scoring a dramatic semi-final win over world champions Germany. . . . more . . .
Relief for Lyon as Elber ruled out for two months (Aug 23, 2004)
Lyon's Brazilian striker Giovane Elber will be out for two months but will not miss the entire season as earlier feared after breaking a bone in his ankle, the French first division club said. . . . more . . .
Branco swaps Stuttgart for Leeds (Aug 23, 2004)
English first division side Leeds United have signed former Cameroon international Serge Branco on a one-year deal after the player impressed on trial. . . . more . . .
United rule out Rooney bid...for now (Aug 23, 2004)
Manchester United have ruled out making an immediate move for Everton's teenage star Wayne Rooney, with United chief executive David Gill claiming it would be bad for business. . . . more . . .
Juninho's Celtic move still on claims agent (Aug 23, 2004)
Juninho's transfer from Middlesbrough to Celtic is expected to be sealed this week, the unsettled Brazilian forward's agent claimed. . . . more . . .
Newcastle make 20 million pound bid for Rooney: report (Aug 23, 2004)
Newcastle have made a bid to Premiership side Everton for England striker Wayne Rooney, according to press reports. . . . more . . .
Lyon sign no-nonsense Brazilian international Cris (Aug 23, 2004)
French champions Lyon have increased their Champions League potential by signing Brazil international defender Cris on a four-year deal, club president Jean-Michel Aulas announced. . . . more . . .
Everton reject Newcastle bid for Rooney: club (Aug 23, 2004)
Newcastle have had a 20 million pound (36 million dollars) bid for England striker Wayne Rooney turned down by Everton. . . . more . . .
Beckham promises to improve his Spanish (Aug 23, 2004)
David Beckham has promised to make an effort to improve his Spanish as he prepares for his second season at Real Madrid.