Archive soccer news from around the world

Owen set for long lay-off after toe injury (Dec 31, 2005)

England striker Michael Owen could be out of action for up to 12 weeks after breaking a toe in Newcastle United's 2-0 Premiership defeat away to Tottenham at White Hart Lane. . . . more . . .

Premier League set to probe Ferguson comments (Dec 31, 2005)

Alex Ferguson's claims Bolton forced the postponement of their midweek fixture to give them more time to prepare for their match against Manchester United on Saturday is set to be investigated by the FA Premier League. . . . more . . .

United give Fergie birthday treat (Dec 31, 2005)

Manchester United marked Sir Alex Ferguson's 64th birthday with an emphatic 4-1 dismissal of Bolton Wanderers at Old Trafford that confirmed the veteran manager's belief that his side can still play a major role in this season's Premiership title race. . . . more . . .

Premier League set to probe Ferguson comments: report (Dec 31, 2005)

Alex Ferguson's claims Bolton forced the postponement of their midweek fixture to give them more time to prepare for their match against Manchester United on Saturday is set to be investigated by the FA Premier League. . . . more . . .

Arsenal adrift after Villa draw (Dec 31, 2005)

Aston Villa and Arsenal have shared the spoils in a 0-0 draw at Villa Park that did nothing to help either side's aspirations. . . . more . . .

Owen downplays World Cup concerns after injury (Dec 31, 2005)

England striker Michael Owen moved to calm fears about his World Cup availability after breaking a toe in Newcastle's 2-0 Premiership defeat away to Tottenham at White Hart Lane. . . . more . . .

Maniche is perfect for Chelsea, says Mourinho (Dec 31, 2005)

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho said Dynamo Moscow's Portuguese midfielder Maniche, whom he coached at Benfica and FC Porto, would be perfect for the London-based club. . . . more . . .

Wigan sunk by gutsy Blackburn (Dec 31, 2005)

Wigan's hopes of climbing back into a Champions League slot were soundly dashed by an enterprising Blackburn side who won 3-0 for one of their best results of the season. . . . more . . .

Charlton find cutting edge to see off West Ham (Dec 31, 2005)

Shaun Bartlett scored his first goal of the season to help Charlton end their dismal recent form with a 2-0 win over London rivals West Ham at The Valley. . . . more . . .

Harry magic steers Portsmouth to vital victory (Dec 31, 2005)

Portsmouth moved closer to safety as Harry Redknapp won his second match in his latest spell as Pompey boss with a 1-0 victory against Fulham at Fratton Park. . . . more . . .

Mourinho orders lethal 2006 as Chelsea end year on a high (Dec 31, 2005)

Jose Mourinho ordered more killer instinct from Chelsea in 2006, despite a 2-0 win over Birmingham City at Stamford Bridge that saw his side end a title-winning year comfortably atop the English Premiership. . . . more . . .

Rangers end year on a high with easy home win (Dec 31, 2005)

Rangers ended 2005 with a convincing 3-0 win at home to Dundee United in the Scottish Premier League to cut the gap on the teams ahead of them in the table. . . . more . . .

Chelsea maintain winning run against Birmingham (Dec 31, 2005)

Jose Mourinho ended the year with plenty to celebrate as Chelsea swept aside Birmingham City 2-0 at Stamford Bridge here on Saturday and so remained at the top of the English Premiership entering 2006. . . . more . . .

Crouch helps Liverpool finish 2005 in style (Dec 31, 2005)

Peter Crouch's fifth goal in five Premiership games earned Liverpool a hard-fought 1-0 win over West Bromwich Albion at Anfield and left Rafael Benitez within touching distance of re-writing the Merseyside club's record books. . . . more . . .

Cisse happy at Liverpool (Dec 30, 2005)

French striker Djibril Cisse hit back at rumours that he will quit European champions Liverpool in the January transfer window. . . . more . . .

Ferguson hits out at Vieira (Dec 30, 2005)

Sir Alex Ferguson has launched a withering attack on former Arsenal skipper Patrick Vieira after the Frenchman claimed Ruud van Nistelrooy was "a cheat and a coward." . . . more . . .

Riera eyes Manchester City move (Dec 30, 2005)

Espanyol midfielder Albert Riera said he was interested in a loan move to English Premiership side Manchester City, dubbing the possibility "an interesting offer, though nothing has materialised yet." . . . more . . .

Injured Ronaldo to miss fortnight (Dec 30, 2005)

Brazilian striker Ronaldo will be out of action for up to a fortnight, his club Real Madrid said, a day after the World Cup winner injured his right leg in his first training session following the winter break. . . . more . . .

Just the beginning for Chelsea says Mourinho (Dec 30, 2005)

Chelsea still have a long way to go before they can truly start comparing themselves to Alex Ferguson's Manchester Unted, manager Jose Mourinho said. . . . more . . .

Wenger demands Toure and Eboue delay Egypt departure (Dec 30, 2005)

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger wants his Cote d'Ivoire defenders Kolo Toure and Emmanuel Eboue to delay their departures for the African Nations Cup by more than a week. . . . more . . .

Morocco part company with Troussier after two months (Dec 30, 2005)

Widely-travelled coach Philippe Troussier had his contract with the Moroccan national team terminated after only two months in charge, the country's football association said. . . . more . . .

United agree seven-million-pound deal for Vidic (Dec 30, 2005)

Manchester United have agreed a deal to sign Serbia and Montenegro defender Nemanja Vidic from Spartak Moscow, the English Premiership giants announced. . . . more . . .

WBA turn down Earnshaw transfer request (Dec 30, 2005)

West Bromwich Albion's record signing Robert Earnshaw has had his transger request turned down by manager Bryan Robson. . . . more . . .

Injury-free Gerrard looking for more goals (Dec 30, 2005)

England midfielder Steven Gerrard puts his goalscoring exploits for Liverpool this season down to the fact he has been injury-free. . . . more . . .

Argentine midfielder Romagnoli joins Sporting on loan (Dec 30, 2005)

Argentine midfielder Leandro Romagnoli has joined Sporting Lisbon after the Portuguese first division side agreed a one and a half year loan deal with Mexican side Veracruz, the club said. . . . more . . .

Van Nistelrooy takes aim at Bolton (Dec 30, 2005)

Dutch striker Ruud van Nistelrooy is determined to take out Manchester United's frustration at dropping valuable points in midweek on Bolton when the Lancashire club visit Old Trafford on Saturday. . . . more . . .

Derby goal is sweetest feeling for Crouch (Dec 30, 2005)

Liverpool striker Peter Crouch said that scoring in the 3-1 derby win against Everton was his sweetest moment so far in his Anfield career. . . . more . . .

Zidane ponders retirement after World Cup (Dec 30, 2005)

French international skipper Zinedine Zidane is considering quitting the game after next summer's World Cup finals. . . . more . . .

Time for action on football fortunes, says GB minister (Dec 30, 2005)

British Sports Minister Richard Caborn has called for the imposition of a salary cap in European football to combat spiralling costs. . . . more . . .

United agree deal for Vidic (Dec 30, 2005)

Manchester United have agreed a deal to sign Serbia and Montenegro defender Nemanja Vidic from Spartak Moscow, the English Premiership giants announced. . . . more . . .

Derby goal is sweetest feeling for Crouch (Dec 29, 2005)

Liverpool striker Peter Crouch said that scoring in the 3-1 derby win against Everton was his sweetest moment so far in his Anfield career. . . . more . . .

Bowyer red card appeal turned down (Dec 29, 2005)

Newcastle United midfielder Lee Bowyer's claim for wrongful dismissal has been rejected by a Football Association (FA) disciplinary commission, the governing body announced. . . . more . . .

Redknapp defiant after Arsenal debacle (Dec 29, 2005)

Portsmouth manager Harry Redknapp emerged from a 4-0 defeat away to Arsenal insisting his side could still avoid relegation from the English Premiership and dropping a broad hint that new faces would be arriving at Fratton Park in the January transfer window. . . . more . . .

Friendship the key says Mourinho as Chelsea extend lead (Dec 29, 2005)

Jose Mourinho hailed the spirit of his side as champions Chelsea put the absence of Frank Lampard to one side to win 1-0 at Manchester City and stretch their advantage at the top of the Premiership table to 11 points. . . . more . . .

Cole fuels Chelsea title push (Dec 29, 2005)

Joe Cole helped Chelsea extend their lead at the top of the Premiership to 11 points by scoring the winner in a hard-fought 1-0 win away to Manchester City. . . . more . . .

Reyna out with broken ankle (Dec 29, 2005)

US skipper Claudio Reyna will be out for at least six weeks to undergo surgery on a broken ankle sustained while playing for Manchester City in the English Premiership. . . . more . . .

Di Stefano recovering after heart surgery (Dec 29, 2005)

Real Madrid legend Alfredo Di Stefano was responding well to treatment in hospital in Valencia the day after undergoing a major heart operation, his doctors said. . . . more . . .

Bolton target Japan's Ono (Dec 29, 2005)

Bolton manager Sam Allardyce revealed his interest in signing Japanese midfielder Shinji Ono from Dutch club Feyenoord where the player's contract expires at the end of the season. . . . more . . .

Great to be back, says Solskjaer (Dec 29, 2005)

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has revealed his relief after finally putting an end to his injury nightmare by returning to the Manchester United line-up for the first time in 19 months. . . . more . . .

Jeffers to rejoin Charlton (Dec 29, 2005)

England striker Francis Jeffers is set to return to Charlton in the English Premiership after a failing to clinch a permanent move to Rangers in Scotland. . . . more . . .

LuaLua in trouble for referee remarks (Dec 29, 2005)

Portsmouth striker Lomana LuaLua has been charged with improper conduct for disparaging comments he made about referee Uriah Rennie after the defeat by Tottenham on December 12. . . . more . . .

Big Ron returns to professional football (Dec 28, 2005)

Ron Atkinson has made a dramatic return to professional football to work with Swindon's black manager Iffy Onuora. . . . more . . .

Newcastle appeal Bowyer red card (Dec 28, 2005)

Newcastle have appealed against Lee Bowyer's red card in their December 26 Premiership defeat at Liverpool. . . . more . . .

Mystery surrounds high Vidic fee (Dec 28, 2005)

Mystery surrounds the high fee of new Manchester United recruit Nemanja Vidic who could complete his move from Spartak Moscow once the winter transfer window opens on January 1. . . . more . . .

Bruce and Moyes escape FA action (Dec 28, 2005)

Birmingham manager Steve Bruce and Everton boss David Moyes have escaped censure by the Football Association (FA) after they each criticized referees on Boxing Day. . . . more . . .

Di Stefano undergoes by-pass surgery (Dec 28, 2005)

Real Madrid legend Alfredo Di Stefano has undergone by-pass surgery at Valencia's La Fe hospital where the 79-year-old is being treated since suffering a heart attack on Christmas Eve. . . . more . . .

Ferguson backs Scholes to make double-figure goal tally (Dec 28, 2005)

Alex Ferguson has backed Manchester United stalwart Paul Scholes to notch up his usual double-figure goal tally this season. . . . more . . .

Mourinho apologises for being arrogant (Dec 28, 2005)

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has apologised for being arrogant in his approach to managing Chelsea in an FHM magazine interview reproduced in Britain's Sun newspaper. . . . more . . .

Pandiani frustrates United (Dec 28, 2005)

Walter Pandiani's seemingly final act in a Birmingham shirt saw him score the late equaliser that secured his struggling side side a much-needed point against Manchester United in a 2-2 draw at St Andrews. . . . more . . .

Two more arrested in Vietnam football scandal (Dec 28, 2005)

Two more Vietnamese footballers have been arrested, bringing to four the number detained over allegations of match-fixing in the recent Southeast Asian games, an official said. . . . more . . .

Spurs great Ditchburn dies (Dec 28, 2005)

Former Tottenham and England goalkeeper Ted Ditchburn has died aged 84, it was announced. . . . more . . .

Cole warms Chelsea hearts against City (Dec 28, 2005)

It took a scruffy 79th-minute winner from Joe Cole to end Manchester City's resistance, but champions Chelsea recorded their seventh successive Premiership victory to move 11 points clear at the top of the Premiership. . . . more . . .

Liverpool maintain run against nine-man Everton (Dec 28, 2005)

Liverpool's astonishing domestic revival continued as the European champions secured a 3-1 victory over struggling neighbours Everton, who finished a bruising encounter with nine men after Phil Neville and Mikel Arteta were both sent-off. . . . more . . .

Kanu brace sinks Tottenham (Dec 28, 2005)

Nigeria international Nwankwo Kanu scored a brace to inspire West Brom to a 2-0 victory against high-flying Tottenham at a freezing Hawthorns on Wednesday. . . . more . . .

Henry brace fires resurgent Gunners (Dec 28, 2005)

Arsenal thrashed struggling Portsmouth 4-0 at Highbury, all the goals coming in the first-half, as the Gunners' post-Christmas revival continued. . . . more . . .

Fulham and Villa share points in six-goal thriller (Dec 28, 2005)

Brian McBride and Liam Ridgewell scored two goals apiece as Fulham and Aston Villa shared the spoils in a six-goal thriller at Craven Cottage. . . . more . . .

Weather puts paid to Bolton-Boro match (Dec 28, 2005)

Bolton's Premiership match at home to Middlesbrough has been postponed because of a failure in the undersoil heating at the Reebok Stadium which left the pitch frozen. . . . more . . .

Injured Koller to be fit for World Cup (Dec 28, 2005)

Borussia Dortmund's Czech Republic international striker Jan Koller said he should be fit for next year's World Cup in Germany, the Sport newspaper reported. . . . more . . .

Wigan keep up winning ways as Hammers slump (Dec 28, 2005)

Wigan Athletic's dynamic duo Jason Roberts and Henri Camara continued their impressive partnership with a goal each as the Latics beat West Ham United 2-0 at Upton Park. . . . more . . .

Newcastle's Taylor set for shoulder surgery (Dec 27, 2005)

Newcastle United defender Steven Taylor is to undergo surgery that will keep him out of action for up to three months after he aggravated an existing shoulder injury on his return to the first-team in Monday's 2-0 Premiership defeat away to Liverpool at Anfield. . . . more . . .

Essien and Carvalho to miss Chelsea trip (Dec 27, 2005)

English Premiership champions Chelsea are set to be without both Michael Essien and Ricardo Carvalho for Wednesday's trip to Manchester City. . . . more . . .

Larsson to leave Barcelona next summer (Dec 27, 2005)

Striker Henrik Larsson is leaving FC Barcelona in the summer of 2006 to return to his native Sweden, he said in an interview. . . . more . . .

Souness refuses to back Bowyer after horror tackle (Dec 27, 2005)

Newcastle's Lee Bowyer is unlikely to get the backing of his manager Graeme Souness if and when the Football Association investigates the midfielder's fourth red card in just over a year. . . . more . . .

Japan striker Oguro signs up with Japanese-owned Grenoble (Dec 27, 2005)

Japan's international striker Masashi Oguro has bought a French dictionary in preparation for his debut with Grenoble. . . . more . . .

PSG coach Fournier sacked (Dec 27, 2005)

Paris Saint Germain have sacked their coach Laurent Fournier and replaced him with former Sochaux boss Guy Lacombe. . . . more . . .

Liverpool duo risk FA probe after fiery Newcastle encounter (Dec 26, 2005)

Liverpool striker Peter Crouch and midfielder Steven Gerrard could both have action taken against them by the Football Association (FA) after Michael Owen's return to Anfield descended into an ugly brawl. . . . more . . .

Liverpool march on as Owen endures unhappy return (Dec 26, 2005)

Peter Crouch helped ruin Michael Owen's Anfield return as Liverpool coasted to an eighth successive Premiership win with a 2-0 win over 10-man Newcastle United. . . . more . . .

Reyes fires Gunners to victory (Dec 26, 2005)

Arsenal returned to winning ways defeating Charlton Athletic 1-0 away in an action packed London derby thanks to a second-half goal from Jose Antonio Reyes. . . . more . . .

Keane spurs Tottenham to victory (Dec 26, 2005)

Robbie Keane set Tottenham on course for a 2-0 win over Birmingham at White Hart Lane that consolidated his side's push for a Champions League place. . . . more . . .

Nakamura strike gives Celtic vital win (Dec 26, 2005)

A brilliant last gasp goal by Shunsuke Nakamura gave Celtic a 2-1 win at home to Livingston in the Scottish Premier League. . . . more . . .

Battling West Ham clinch point at 10-man Portsmouth (Dec 26, 2005)

West Ham manager Alan Pardew was delighted after his injury-hit team battled back from a goal down to take a point in a 1-1 draw with 10-man Portsmouth at Fratton Park. . . . more . . .

Baros hands Villa three points against Everton (Dec 26, 2005)

A blatant Milan Baros handball, missed by referee Mike Riley, helped Aston Villa to a vital 4-0 victory against fellow strugglers Everton at Villa Park. . . . more . . .

Blackburn take points in smash and grab at Boro (Dec 26, 2005)

Blackburn gained their second win in a week away to Middlesbrough with a 2-0 victory at the Riverside thanks to a brace from Shefki Kuqi. . . . more . . .

Bruce blasts referee after Spurs defeat (Dec 26, 2005)

Birmingham manager Steve Bruce accused referee Phil Dowd of playing a decisive role in his side's 2-0 away defeat against Tottenham which left the visitors mired in the relegation zone. . . . more . . .

Robson curses his luck as United press on (Dec 26, 2005)

Bryan Robson, the West Bromwich Albion manager, bemoaned his team's bad fortune - and the helping hand of Wayne Rooney - as he endured a 3-0 defeat on his return to Old Trafford and former club Manchester United. . . . more . . .

Wigan in seventh heaven after Christmas thriller (Dec 26, 2005)

Wigan nicked the three points after a seven-goal Christmas cracker against Manchester City at the JJB Stadium. . . . more . . .

Strachan calls on Celtic to get tough (Dec 26, 2005)

Celtic manager Gordon Strachan has called on his players to get tough after another disappointing performance in the Scottish Premier League. . . . more . . .

We'll bounce back in 2006 says Ferguson (Dec 26, 2005)

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has dismissed speculation about his future and promised that 2006 will be a year in which the club will be reunited with success. . . . more . . .

Crespo keeps Chelsea on course (Dec 26, 2005)

Hernan Crespo scored the decisive goal as Premiership champions Chelsea overcame a spirited Fulham 3-2 in west London derby to make it six league wins in a row. . . . more . . .

Crespo late show sees off Fulham (Dec 26, 2005)

Hernan Crespo netted the winner for Chelsea after Fulham gave them a fright in the champions' 3-2 derby win at Stamford Bridge. . . . more . . .

Newcastle chief scoffs at Benitez claims on Owen (Dec 26, 2005)

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez did everything but his best to re-sign England striker Michael Owen from Real Madrid as was claimed, said Newcastle chairman Freddy Shepherd. . . . more . . .

Toppmoller has Georgia on his mind (Dec 26, 2005)

Former Bayer Leverkusen and SV Hamburg coach Klaus Toppmoller is set to sign a two-year contract to coach Georgia's national team. . . . more . . .

United keep up title push against Baggies (Dec 26, 2005)

Manchester United, with first-half goals from the revitalized Paul Scholes and Rio Ferdinand, maintained their challenge to Premiership leaders Chelsea with a comfortable 3-0 victory over West Bromwich Albion at Old Trafford. . . . more . . .

Heart-to-heart helped Gerrard stay put at Anfield (Dec 25, 2005)

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has revealed how an earnest chat with unsettled captain Steven Gerrard helped the striker snub Chelsea and stay at Anfield. . . . more . . .

Di Stefano in a "serious" condition, requires by-pass (Dec 25, 2005)

Real Madrid great Alfredo Di Stefano, in hospital after suffering a heart attack, was reported to be in a "serious" condition and in need of by-pass surgery. . . . more . . .

Doubt over Chelsea duo for Fulham (Dec 25, 2005)

Chelsea go into Monday's Boxing Day Premiership visit by west London neighbours Fulham with doubts over the participation of winger Damien Duff and left-back Asier del Horno. . . . more . . .

Du Wei set to stay after impressing Strachan (Dec 25, 2005)

Celtic manager Gordon Strachan looks set to extend the stay of Chinese international Du Wei at the Scottish club. . . . more . . .

Vidic set for Old Trafford (Dec 25, 2005)

Serbia and Montenegro star centre half Nemanja Vidic could complete his move to Manchester United from Spartak Moscow once the winter transfer window opens on January 1. . . . more . . .

Eriksson feared for England's World Cup campaign after Danish roasting (Dec 25, 2005)

Sven-Goran Eriksson said he feared England would fail to qualify for the World Cup following their humiliating defeat to Denmark. . . . more . . .

Ferguson unconcerned by Chelsea form (Dec 25, 2005)

Sir Alex Ferguson has insisted he is not fretting about the performance of Premiership leaders and reigning champions Chelsea as the season enters the busy Christmas and New Year period. . . . more . . .

Drogba promises to maintain Chelsea efforts (Dec 25, 2005)

Chelsea striker Didier Drogba has assured the Premiership leaders there will be no slackening in his contribution to the champions' cause ahead of his departure for the African Nations Cup. . . . more . . .

Everton boss hoping Ferguson stays put (Dec 25, 2005)

Everton boss David Moyes is hoping striker Duncan Ferguson will see out the rest of the season. . . . more . . .

Sven feared for England's World Cup campaign after Danish roasting (Dec 25, 2005)

Sven-Goran Eriksson said he feared England would fail to qualify for the World Cup following their humiliating defeat to Denmark. . . . more . . .

Shearer confirms retirement plan (Dec 24, 2005)

Newcastle striker and former England captain Alan Shearer says he will stick by his decision to retire at the end of the season. . . . more . . .

Di Stefano stable after suffering heart attack (Dec 24, 2005)

Real Madrid great Alfredo Di Stefano is in hospital after suffering a heart attack, the Spanish first division club said. . . . more . . .

Keep your eyes off Saha warns Ferguson (Dec 24, 2005)

Premiership clubs keen on boosting their strike force for the second half of the season should not bother looking to Frenchman Louis Saha, warned Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson. . . . more . . .

Di Stefano suffers heart attack (Dec 24, 2005)

Real Madrid great Alfredo Di Stefano is in hospital after suffering a heart attack, the Spanish first division club said. . . . more . . .

Benitez leaves Liverpool door open for Owen (Dec 24, 2005)

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez says former Anfield great Michael Owen could return to the club one day. . . . more . . .

Chelsea wanted Essien to jet to and from African Nations Cup (Dec 24, 2005)

Chelsea have come up with the ideal solution to allow midfielder Michael Essien to play in both the Premiership and the African Nations Cup in January and February - loan him a private jet. . . . more . . .

Eriksson like a wet fish says former England striker (Dec 24, 2005)

Former England and Arsenal striker Ian Wright has hit out at Sven-Goran Eriksson claiming the Swede has failed to get to grips with what victory in football means to the country's passionate fans. . . . more . . .

Allardyce set to offload Jaaskelainen (Dec 24, 2005)

Bolton manager Sam Allardyce is ready to cash in by selling goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen to avoid him leaving for free in 2007. . . . more . . .

Japan striker Oguro signs up with Japanese owned Grenoble (Dec 24, 2005)

Japan international striker Masashi Oguro, who helped power Gamba Osaka to their first J-League title this month, sealed a contract to play for the French second-division club Grenoble. . . . more . . .

Chelsea duo doubtful for Fulham (Dec 24, 2005)

Premiership leaders Chelsea have fitness concerns over winger Damien Duff and left-back Asier del Horno as they prepare for Monday's west London derby at home to Fulham. . . . more . . .

Petrov set for Celtic return (Dec 24, 2005)

Celtic midfielder Stilian Petrov is due to be fit for the Scottish Premier League leaders' match at home to Livingston on Monday. . . . more . . .

Vieira exit floored Arsenal says Gilberto (Dec 24, 2005)

Arsenal took so long to adjust to life without Patrick Vieira that by the time they "woke up" any chance of winning the Premiership had all but disappeared, Gilberto has admitted. . . . more . . .

Mourino regrets voyeur slur on Wenger (Dec 23, 2005)

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho said if he could turn back time he would not have labelled his Arsenal counterpart Arsene Wenger "a voyeur" earlier this season. . . . more . . .

McCarthy unhappy with South Africa recall (Dec 23, 2005)

Striker Benni McCarthy said he was unhappy to have been recalled by South Africa for next year's African Nations Cup finals because it will take him away from FC Porto for too long. . . . more . . .

Owen unfazed by Anfield goal celebrations (Dec 23, 2005)

Newcastle striker Michael Owen insists that fond memories of Liverpool will not hold him back from celebrating scoring against his former club when the teams meet at Anfield on Monday. . . . more . . .

Vietnam football stars in jail for four months, official faces rap (Dec 23, 2005)

Two Vietnamese footballers, under arrest for alleged match-fixing, will be detained for four months, police said, as a senior official came under attack in the state media for failing to stem fraud. . . . more . . .

I'm a fascist, but not racist, says Di Canio (Dec 23, 2005)

Controversial Italian footballer Paolo Di Canio, who has caused a Serie A storm for making Nazi salutes, admitted that he was a fascist, but not a racist. . . . more . . .

Hungary lined up for England World Cup prep (Dec 23, 2005)

Hungary, the first team to beat England on home soil over half a century ago, have been revealed as a vital cog in Sven-Goran Eriksson's World Cup preparations. . . . more . . .

Villa takeover could be completed by New Year (Dec 23, 2005)

Aston Villa could be under new ownership by the New Year, the man fronting the 64.4 million pounds takeover for the English Premiership side said. . . . more . . .

Fergie writes off Heinze's World Cup hopes (Dec 23, 2005)

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson said that Gabriel Heinze had no chance of appearing in next year's World Cup finals. . . . more . . .

Mourinho regrets voyeur slur on Wenger (Dec 23, 2005)

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho said if he could turn back time he would not have labelled his Arsenal counterpart Arsene Wenger "a voyeur" earlier this season. . . . more . . .

We can win World Cup, says Beckham (Dec 23, 2005)

David Beckham is convinced England can lift the World Cup next summer if luck goes their way. . . . more . . .

Burley happy to work with Woodward (Dec 23, 2005)

George Burley was unveiled as Southampton coach and insisted he doesn't see any problems working with director of football Sir Clive Woodward, the man who guided England to the 2003 rugby World Cup. . . . more . . .

Brazil winger Cicinho joins Real (Dec 23, 2005)

Cicinho, who has made his name on the right wing for his club Sao Paulo and Brazil, has signed a five year contract with Real Madrid. . . . more . . .

Mido handed African Nations warning by Spurs (Dec 23, 2005)

Tottenham Hotpsur manager Martin Jol has told Egypt striker Mido he could scupper a permanent move to the English Premiership side if he returns less than fully fit from the African Nations Cup. . . . more . . .

Cech admits Chelsea 'lucky' to beat Arsenal (Dec 22, 2005)

Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech has admitted that the Premiership leaders and reigning champions were "lucky" to beat Arsenal 2-0 on Sunday, a victory that all but put paid to the Gunners' title ambitions. . . . more . . .

Vandereycken named as new Belgium coach (Dec 22, 2005)

Rene Vandereycken was named as the new coach of the Belgium national team to replace Aime Anthuenis who failed to take the team to the World Cup finals, the Belgian football federation (URBSFA) announced. . . . more . . .

Capello confident Juve can maintain run (Dec 22, 2005)

Fabio Capello insisted his Juventus side were capable of sustaining their irresistible form which has seen them drop just five points in 17 Serie A matches. . . . more . . .

Henry calls on Gunners to start firing (Dec 22, 2005)

Thierry Henry has called on his Arsenal team-mates to raise their game if they are to get back into contention for a Champions League place behind runaway Premiership leaders Chelsea. . . . more . . .

Vietnam football duo could face lifelong ban (Dec 22, 2005)

Two Vietnamese players arrested for alleged match-fixing during the recent Southeast Asian Games in the Philippines could face lifelong bans if convicted, a top football official said. . . . more . . .

Maradona was 'threatened at gun-point,' says friend (Dec 22, 2005)

Football legend Diego Maradona was threatened at gun-point during a fracas at Rio de Janeiro airport, a friend claimed. . . . more . . .

Austria defender Scharner agrees Wigan switch (Dec 22, 2005)

Austrian international defender Paul Scharner completed a 3.7-million-euro transfer from Brann Bergen of Norway to English Premiership side Wigan. . . . more . . .

Player banned for eight months in match-fix scandal (Dec 22, 2005)

A German footballer was banned for eight months after being implicated in the match-fix scandal which has rocked the game in the country. . . . more . . .

Delany wants to leave Villa (Dec 22, 2005)

Welsh international defender Mark Delaney handed struggling Premiership side Aston Villa an unwanted Christmas gift by demanding a move away from the club. . . . more . . .

Burley takescharge of Saints as Woodward moves up (Dec 22, 2005)

English Championship side Southampton revealed that former Ipswich and Hearts boss George Burley will be their new coach. . . . more . . .

Angry Maradona arrested at Rio airport (Dec 22, 2005)

Diego Maradona was arrested by police at Rio de Janeiro airport on for causing a disturbance after missing his flight to Buenos Aires. . . . more . . .

Gentle start for African champions Al-Ahly (Dec 22, 2005)

Title holders Al-Ahly of Egypt top a list of nine former winners in the 2006 African Champions League draw. . . . more . . .

Burley takes charge of Saints (Dec 22, 2005)

English Championship side Southampton revealed that former Ipswich and Hearts boss George Burley will be their new coach. . . . more . . .

Osasuna freeze out Atletico for perfect home record (Dec 22, 2005)

Osasuna maintained their 100 per cent home record this season, and defied the freezing conditions and their own frozen pitch in Pamplona, with a 2-1 victory over Atletico Madrid. . . . more . . .

Rangers sign Boyd to boost Champions League bid (Dec 22, 2005)

Kilmarnock striker Kris Boyd completed a 500,000-pound transfer to Glasgow Rangers and described it as a "dream move". . . . more . . .

London Mayor doubtful over Wembley timetable (Dec 21, 2005)

London Mayor Ken Livingstone voiced his doubts over the timetable for the opening of the new Wembley Stadium after contractors admitted it might not be ready in time for next year's FA Cup Final on May 13 as originally planned. . . . more . . .

PSG knocked out of League Cup to heap further pressure on Fournier (Dec 21, 2005)

Paris Saint Germain were knocked out of the French League Cup 2-0 by Toulouse to heap yet more pressure on under-fire coach Laurent Fournier. . . . more . . .

Winter cheer for Juventus (Dec 21, 2005)

The top four teams in Serie A all won with leaders Juventus taking their eight-point advantage into the winter break following a 2-0 home victory over Siena. . . . more . . .

Arsenal leave it late before making Doncaster pay penalty (Dec 21, 2005)

Arsenal came back from the brink of a League Cup exit against League One Doncaster to win 3-1 in a penalty shoot-out at Belle Vue and book their place in this season's semi-finals It looked as if Doncaster, who were playing non-league football just over two years ago, were going through 2-1 in extra-time only for Brazil World Cup-winner Gilberto to snatch an equaliser in the second minute of stoppage time at the end of the additional 30 minutes. . . . more . . .

Ex-South Africa skipper Fish confirms retirement (Dec 21, 2005)

Former South Africa defender Mark Fish confirmed his retirement from football. . . . more . . .

Builders warn Wembley may not be ready for FA Cup final (Dec 21, 2005)

London's Wembley Stadium may not be refurbished in time to host May's FA Cup Final, Australian construction group Multiplex has warned. . . . more . . .

Strachan looking to emulate O'Neill record (Dec 21, 2005)

Celtic manager Gordon Strachan said he wanted to follow in the footsteps of Martin O'Neill after insisting his predecessor's side had not got the respect it deserved. . . . more . . .

Wenger pondering League Cup re-think after narrow escape (Dec 21, 2005)

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger admitted he might change his policy of fielding under-strength sides in the League Cup after seeing his team just make it into the semi-finals of this season's competition following a penalty shoot-out win away to League One side Doncaster. . . . more . . .

Hislop 'disappointed' by Di Canio salute (Dec 21, 2005)

West Ham goalkeeper Shaka Hislop said he felt "bitterly disappointed" by the controversial actions of former team-mate Paolo Di Canio. . . . more . . .

Cech admits Chelsea 'lucky' to beat Arsenal (Dec 21, 2005)

Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech has admitted that the Premiership leaders and reigning champions were "lucky" to beat Arsenal 2-0 on Sunday, a victory that all but put paid to the Gunners' title ambitions. . . . more . . .

Comeback kings St Pauli KO Hertha in German Cup (Dec 21, 2005)

Bundesliga side Hertha Berlin were dumped out of the last sixteen of the German Cup by minnows FC St Pauli with the regional side winning a 4-3 thriller. . . . more . . .

Sheffield United set for takeover of China's Chengdu (Dec 21, 2005)

England's second division Sheffield United are only days away from acquiring a controlling stake in Chengdu Five Bull and becoming the first foreign club to control a Chinese team, officials said. . . . more . . .

English FA upbeat over Wembley (Dec 21, 2005)

English football officials insisted there was no panic over the progress of the new Wembley Stadium despite contractors Multiplex admitting it may not be ready in time for next year's FA Cup final. . . . more . . .

Newcastle chief warns Spanish giants off Luque (Dec 21, 2005)

Newcastle chairman Freddy Shepherd told Spanish giants Real Madrid and Barcelona to forget about their attempts to sign the English Premiership club's 9.5 million pounds winger Albert Luque. . . . more . . .

Henry given all clear (Dec 21, 2005)

Thierry Henry has been given the all-clear to play for Arsenal during the busy Christmas and New Year period, the London Evening Standard reported. . . . more . . .

Xavier fails in appeal against 18-month doping ban (Dec 21, 2005)

Middlesbrough's former Portuguese international defender Abel Xavier has failed in his appeal against an 18-month doping suspension, European football's governing body UEFA reported. . . . more . . .

Supersub Hargreaves fires Bayern into last eight (Dec 21, 2005)

England international Owen Hargreaves was the hero as holders Bayern Munich advanced to the quarter-finals of the German Cup with a 1-0 extra-time win over SV Hamburg. . . . more . . .

Real Madrid suffer nightmare before Christmas (Dec 21, 2005)

Real Madrid's year ended on a depressing note when the Spanish giants were beaten 2-1 by Racing Santander in front of their own fans. . . . more . . .

Eto'o makes it lucky 13 for Barcelona (Dec 20, 2005)

Cameroon striker Samuel Eto'o took his season's goal tally to 17 as champions Barcelona clinched a 13th successive win to take control of the Spanish title race. . . . more . . .

Australian fans scramble as World Cup tickets go on sale (Dec 20, 2005)

Thousands of Australian football fans inundated officials with requests for tickets for next year's World Cup in Germany after the tickets went on sale, officials said. . . . more . . .

Japan midfielder Ono wants to stay on in Europe (Dec 20, 2005)

Japan midfielder Shinji Ono hopes to stay on in European football but will consider a bid by his former J-League club Urawa Reds to bring him back from Dutch side Feyenoord, a Reds official said. . . . more . . .

United and Wigan through to League Cup semi-finals (Dec 20, 2005)

Manchester United and Wigan both made it through to the semi-finals of the League Cup. . . . more . . .

SFA leave Hearts boss Rix in limbo (Dec 20, 2005)

Hearts head coach Graham Rix was left facing an uncertain future after the Scottish Football Association (SFA), looking into his suitability for the post once again, asked the Edinburgh club for more information. . . . more . . .

Olisadebe set for Pompey trial (Dec 20, 2005)

Poland striker Emmanuel Olisadebe is to have a trial with Premiership strugglers Portsmouth starting. . . . more . . .

Toure backs 'spirit' to pull Arsenal through (Dec 20, 2005)

Kolo Toure has insisted Arsenal's team spirit can revive their faltering season while stressing that his on-field bust-up with Freddie Ljungberg at St James' Park was a "brotherly" row. . . . more . . .

Vietnam PM urges quick probe in football scandal (Dec 20, 2005)

Vietnam's Prime Minister Phan Van Khai has urged police to speed up investigation of alleged match-fixing during the Southeast Asian Games in the Philippines earlier this month, an official said. . . . more . . .

Figo convinced