Archive soccer news from around the world
Al Montashari named Asian player of the year; Japan team of year (Nov 30, 2005)
Saudi Arabia defender Hamad Al Montashari was named Asian player of the year and Japan was crowned team of the year at an awards ceremony overshadowed by controversy. . . . more . . .
United fans say goodbye to Best (Nov 30, 2005)
Manchester United fans converged on Old Trafford to pay tribute to George Best before the club's first home game since the death of the legendary player. . . . more . . .
Babayaro banned for three matches over Cahill clash (Nov 30, 2005)
Newcastle's Nigerian defender Celestine Babayaro has been banned for three matches after admitting a charge of violent conduct following a fracas with Everton's Tim Cahill during a Premiership match on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Indecent exposure case dropped against ex-AC Milan doctor (Nov 30, 2005)
English prosecutors have dropped charges of indecent exposure against the former team doctor of Italian giants AC Milan after his alleged victim decided not to give evidence. . . . more . . .
Hammers blow kisses to Keane (Nov 30, 2005)
West Ham have confirmed they have contacted Roy Keane's advisors in a bid to lure the former Manchester United captain to London. . . . more . . .
Cole says he played with broken foot (Nov 30, 2005)
Arsenal's Ashley Cole said he'd unknowingly played six weeks with a broken bone in his foot before realising the full extent of an injury that has ruled him out until the New Year. . . . more . . .
Ronaldinho set for another top gong ? (Nov 30, 2005)
Barcelona forward Ronaldinho is in line for another top accolade after football's world ruling body nominated the Brazilian among the contenders for the world player of the year. . . . more . . .
Blades allow Pompey to speak to Warnock (Nov 30, 2005)
Mangerless Premiership strugglers Portsmouth were given permission to speak to Sheffield United boss Neil Warnock, their first-choice to fill the vacancy at Fratton Park. . . . more . . .
Solskjaer career nears end as United offer testimonial (Nov 30, 2005)
Fears are mounting that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will not play for Manchester United again after manager Alex Ferguson revealed plans for a testimonial for the Norwegian striker. . . . more . . .
Rafa hoping for World Cup spur for Harry (Nov 30, 2005)
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez expects Harry Kewell to start playing well to ensure his place in Australia's World Cup team. . . . more . . .
Germany snub Wigan's Bullard offer (Nov 30, 2005)
World Cup hosts Germany have told Wigan Athletic's English-born midfielder Jimmy Bullard that they are not interested in nationalising him ahead of the 2006 finals. . . . more . . .
Al Montashari to be named Asian player of the year; Japan team of year (Nov 30, 2005)
Saudi Arabia defender Hamad Al Montashari will be named Asian player of the year and Japan will be crowned team of the year at a ceremony, according to the winners list seen by AFP. . . . more . . .
Maoulida double pushes Monaco closer to UEFA knockout stage (Nov 30, 2005)
A double from Toifilou Maoulida inspired 2004 Champions League finalists Monaco to the top of UEFA Cup group A with a 2-0 victory over Slavia Prague. . . . more . . .
UEFA Cup success a domestic drag say Marseille (Nov 30, 2005)
Marseille, who play at Levski Sofia on Thursday, may have qualified for the UEFA Cup knockout stages but coach Jean Fernandez has complained their domestic aims are suffering at the hands of the competition. . . . more . . .
Portuguese football clubs struggle with hard times (Nov 30, 2005)
Portugal's football clubs have produced top players like Luis Figo and Cristiano Ronaldo but they are facing their biggest financial crisis in years which has left some teams struggling to stay afloat. . . . more . . .
United salute Best with West Brom win (Nov 30, 2005)
Manchester United marked their first home match since the death of George Best with a 3-1 win over West Brom at Old Trafford that took the club into the quarter-finals of the League Cup. . . . more . . .
Liverpool in a groove despite striker woes (Nov 30, 2005)
Liverpool's problems in the striker department appear to grow deeper by the day but that failed to stop the European champions from making it five Premiership wins in a row with a 2-0 defeat of whipping boys Sunderland. . . . more . . .
Australia to preserve penalty spot that secured World Cup place (Nov 30, 2005)
Australia has moved to permanently preserve the penalty spot from which the Socceroos earlier this month secured their first berth in the World Cup finals for 32 years. . . . more . . .
Greek football club orders hooligan manhunt after violence-marred match (Nov 30, 2005)
Top Greek football league club AEK Athens published photos of alleged hooligans in an unprecedented step to combat the violence that habitually plagues the country's most popular sport. . . . more . . .
Giant-killers Doncaster ready for anyone (Nov 30, 2005)
Doncaster boss Dave Penney has declared his giant-killing side ready to take on Arsenal or any other big guns left in the quarter-finals of the League Cup. . . . more . . .
Stars pay tribute to magic Ronaldinho (Nov 30, 2005)
As far as awards go, Ronaldinho didn't know which was better - winning the 50th European Player of the Year award or hearing some of football's greatest ever players gushing over his talents. . . . more . . .
Cahill and Babayaro charged over Goodison clash (Nov 30, 2005)
Tim Cahill and Celestine Babayaro face possible three-match bans after being charged with violent conduct following a fracas during Everton's 1-0 win over Newcastle on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Debt-laden Real Sociedad launch capital augmentation (Nov 30, 2005)
Spanish first division outfit Real Sociedad are to propose shareholders raising the club's capital by 13.4 million euros (17 million dollars) and lift club membership fees 30 percent to ward off a spiralling debt crisis which could lead to bankruptcy. . . . more . . .
Domenech stunned by sudden death of French player Di Tommaso (Nov 29, 2005)
France coach Raymond Domenech was among those who were left saddened by the death of FC Utrecht defender David Di Tommaso, who died suddenly in his sleep. . . . more . . .
Trinidad and Tobago's Glen makes Rapid move (Nov 29, 2005)
Cornell Glen, a forward who helped Trinidad and Tobago qualify for the 2006 World Cup finals in Germany, was traded by the Columbus Crew to the Colorado Rapids for US defender Ritchie Kotschau. . . . more . . .
Old Trafford to say farewell to Best in silence (Nov 29, 2005)
Manchester United's League Cup tie against West Brom on Wednesday, their first match at Old Trafford since the death of George Best, will be preceded by a minute's silence in honour of the club's legendary former player. . . . more . . .
Doncaster knock Villa out of League Cup (Nov 29, 2005)
Doncaster Rovers claimed their second Premiership scalp of the season when they beat Aston Villa to move into the League Cup quarter-finals with a 3-0 win and put even more pressure on embattled Villa boss David O'Leary. . . . more . . .
Bowyer agrees to pay student despite not guilty verdict (Nov 29, 2005)
Lee Bowyer has agreed an out-of-court settlement with an Asian student he was cleared of assaulting, the footballer's lawyers said. . . . more . . .
Blades confirm Pompey approach for Warnock (Nov 29, 2005)
Sheffield United confirmed they had received an approach from Premiership strugglers Portsmouth to speak to manager Neil Warnock. . . . more . . .
Pompey chairman refuses to close door on Redknapp return (Nov 29, 2005)
Portsmouth chairman Milan Mandaric refused to rule out former boss Harry Redknapp returning to Fratton Park. . . . more . . .
Ronaldinho could become one of the best five players ever: Tostao (Nov 29, 2005)
Brazil's Tostao, a member of the legendary 1970 World Cup winning side, said the newly-crowned European footballer of the year Ronaldinho could become one of the best five players of all time. . . . more . . .
Lampard wants 'unbeatable' double century record (Nov 29, 2005)
Frank Lampard has set his sights on extending his record of consecutive Premiership appearances to 200 matches, a mark he believes will be "impossible" to overhaul. . . . more . . .
Germany coach Klinsmann to speak in Rio about training methods (Nov 29, 2005)
Germany coach Jurgen Klinsmann has answered a call from Brazilian opposite number Carlos Alberto Parreira to explain his methods for reconstructing his team for the World Cup finals on home soil next year. . . . more . . .
Neville and Saha bolster Red Devils (Nov 29, 2005)
Manchester United are set to receive a major boost on the injury front when Gary Neville starts his first game since August in Wednesday's League Cup fourth round clash against West Brom. . . . more . . .
Fabregas aiming for Spanish World Cup berth (Nov 29, 2005)
Arsenal teenager Cesc Fabregas believes he can find a way into Spain's squad for next year's World Cup finals - even though he has yet to make it into the senior national side. . . . more . . .
AC Milan move closer to Italian Cup quarter-finals (Nov 29, 2005)
AC Milan defeated second division Brescia 3-1 in the first leg of their Italian Cup last 16 tie at the San Siro. . . . more . . .
US coach says US deserve World Cup seed consideration (Nov 29, 2005)
Setting the pace in North American regional qualifying for the 2006 World Cup, an unprecedented feat for a US team, is enough to merit seeding consideration for the Germany football showdown, US coach Bruce Arena said. . . . more . . .
Shearer escapes sanction for flying elbow (Nov 29, 2005)
Alan Shearer has escaped disciplinary action by the Football Association after he appeared to elbow Everton defender David Weir during Newcastle's match at Goodison Park on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Al Jaber ruled out as Asian player of year award descends into farce (Nov 29, 2005)
Asia's already controversial player of the year awards descended into farce when one of the three finalists was ruled out of contention for failing to arrive for the ceremony. . . . more . . .
Ronaldinho named 50th European footballer of the year (Nov 29, 2005)
Silky smooth Brazil and Barcelona midfielder Ronaldinho was named the 50th European footballer of the year at a lavish ceremony here. . . . more . . .
Malaysian Rasiah shatters Filipino football dreams (Nov 29, 2005)
Two goals from the boot of Surendren Rasiah ended Filipino dreams of a medal in the men's football as Malaysia came from behind to win a semi-final spot at the South East Asian Games. . . . more . . .
Giantkillers Doncaster add Villa to list of scalps (Nov 29, 2005)
Doncaster Rovers claimed their second Premiership scalp of the season when they beat Aston Villa to move into the League Cup quarter-finals with a 3-0 win that added to the pressure on embattled Villa boss David O'Leary. . . . more . . .
Kenyan striker Oliech signs for Nantes (Nov 28, 2005)
Kenya's international striker Dennis Oliech, who currently plays in Qatar, has signed a contract with French first division side Nantes, club president Rudi Roussillon said. . . . more . . .
Cote d'Ivoire defender Zoro in tears after racist abuse (Nov 28, 2005)
Messina's African defender Marc Zoro was reduced to tears after being subjected to racial abuse by the visiting fans in a Serie A match at home to Inter Milan. . . . more . . .
Zidane's Madrid warning for Ballack (Nov 28, 2005)
Zinedine Zidane has welcomed reports Real Madrid are close to signing Germany captain Michael Ballack from Bayern Munich but the France star has warned he will not surrender the playmaking role lightly. . . . more . . .
Beckham still to speak to Ferguson after United exit (Nov 28, 2005)
England captain David Beckham has said that more than two years after he left Manchester United he has not spoken to the club's manager Sir Alex Ferguson since the day he left to join Real Madrid. . . . more . . .
World Cup a chance for Germany to show friendly face: Merkel (Nov 28, 2005)
Chancellor Angela Merkel said the 2006 World Cup finals in Germany would be a chance to present a friendly and modern view of the country to the rest of the world. . . . more . . .
Mandaric keen for McLeish talks but cool on Redknapp (Nov 28, 2005)
Milan Mandaric, chairman of managerless English Premiership strugglers Portsmouth, said he'd made an approach to Scottish champions Rangers to speak to their under-pressure boss Alex McLeish. . . . more . . .
Ronaldinho named 50th European footballer of the year (Nov 28, 2005)
Silky smooth Brazil and Barcelona midfielder Ronaldinho was named the 50th European footballer of the year at a lavish ceremony. . . . more . . .
Henry in love with Arsenal (Nov 28, 2005)
Thierry Henry has admitted he is enjoying a passionate love affair with Arsenal, but it remains to be seen if that devotion is strong enough to keep him at the Gunners when they move from Highbury to nearby Ashburton Grove next summer - or seek a fresh challenge elsewhere. . . . more . . .
Worrying week awaits Real Madrid coach Luxemburgo (Nov 28, 2005)
Real Madrid coach Wanderley Luxemburgo is likely to face one of the worst weeks of his professional career after the Spanish giants could only draw 2-2 at Real Sociedad. . . . more . . .
England players not greedy: Beckham (Nov 28, 2005)
David Beckham rejected claims that England players were being greedy with regard to bonus payments at the 2006 World Cup. . . . more . . .
Rooney aiming for Best heights (Nov 28, 2005)
Wayne Rooney said he hoped one day to be compared to George Best after inspiring the Manchester United fightback that saw West Ham beaten 2-1 in the club's first match since the death of the Old Trafford hero. . . . more . . .
World Cup hosts on red alert after hooligan turf war (Nov 28, 2005)
With just over six months to go until the 2006 World Cup finals a hooligan turf war in the small town of Briesen has put hosts Germany on red alert. . . . more . . .
FIFA's Kurdish gaffe upsets Turkey (Nov 28, 2005)
The Turkish Football Association has urged the sport's governing body FIFA to remove from its almanac a reference to Kurdish as an official language of Turkey. . . . more . . .
Best could be honoured with Belfast stadium (Nov 28, 2005)
Northern Ireland sports minister David Hanson has said it is possible a proposed new stadium in Belfast could be named after the late George Best. . . . more . . .
Ferguson ready for emotional salute to Best (Nov 28, 2005)
Alex Ferguson is anticipating an emotional tribute to George Best at Old Trafford on Wednesday when Manchester United play their first home game since the death of one of their greatest players. . . . more . . .
Chelsea to appeal fan trouble fine (Nov 28, 2005)
Chelsea are to appeal against the 30,000-pound (45,000 euros) fine imposed by the Football Association (FA) for failing to control their supporters in a League Cup tie against West Ham last season. . . . more . . .
Who can stop Barca taking their second title? (Nov 28, 2005)
Barcelona's stunning 4-1 win over Racing Santander will have sent shock waves throughout the rest of Spanish first division. . . . more . . .
Indonesia coast past Laos into SEAGames semis (Nov 28, 2005)
Indonesia trampled over Laos 4-0 in an unruly and physical game to advance to the semi-finals of the Southeast Asian Games in the Philippines. . . . more . . .
Sibneft to end CSKA deal (Nov 28, 2005)
Oil giant Sibneft said they were ending their sponsorship deal of Russian champions CSKA Moscow at the end of the year. . . . more . . .
Ronaldinho tipped to win 50th European footballer of the year award (Nov 28, 2005)
Silky-smooth Barcelona striker Ronaldinho is being tipped to win the 50th European footballer of the year award at a ceremony here. . . . more . . .
Bayern rivals already waving white flag (Nov 28, 2005)
With 14 games gone in the Bundesliga Bayern Munich are ominously looking down on the other 17 teams in the German top-flight and their chief adversaries appear to have lost all hope of catching the reigning champions. . . . more . . .
Italians united against racism in football (Nov 28, 2005)
Italian league and cup football games in the next week are all to start five minutes late to protest against racism among fans which again provoked ugly incidents at the weekend. . . . more . . .
Juve restore five-point lead but racism overshadows Serie A (Nov 27, 2005)
Juventus restored their five-point lead at the top of Italy's Serie A after defeating Treviso 3-1. . . . more . . .
Hibs pile pressure on Rangers boss McLeish (Nov 27, 2005)
Hibernian added to the woes of Rangers manager Alex McLeish with a 2-1 win at Easter Road that left the reigning champions a massive 15 points behind leaders and arch Glasgow rivals Celtic. . . . more . . .
Juve beat Treviso to restore five-point lead (Nov 27, 2005)
Juventus restored their five-point lead at the top of Italy's Serie A with a 3-1 home win over Treviso. . . . more . . .
McBride double eases Fulham fears (Nov 27, 2005)
Brian McBride scored twice in Fulham's 2-1 win over Bolton Wanderers at Craven Cottage and took the hosts five points clear of the relegation zone. . . . more . . .
FIFA searched in probe into collapse of former marketing partner (Nov 27, 2005)
World football's governing body FIFA has said it has lodged a formal protest about a search of its headquarters earlier this month by Swiss investigators probing the collapse of former marketing partner ISMM-ISL four years ago. . . . more . . .
Cote d'Ivoire defender Zoro in tears after racist abuse (Nov 27, 2005)
Messina's African defender Marc Zoro was reduced to tears after being subjected to racial abuse by the visiting fans in their Serie A match at home to Inter Milan. . . . more . . .
Thailand beats Malaysia, looks toward football semis at SEA Games (Nov 27, 2005)
Defending champions and heavy favourites Thailand beat back a second half assault by Malaysia for an exciting 2-1 win in the preliminary round of the men's football competition at the Southeast Asian Games. . . . more . . .
No major signing at Manchester till the summer (Nov 27, 2005)
Manchester United will not make a major signing until the end of the season, boss Alex Ferguson has revealed. . . . more . . .
United in Best request to Benfica (Nov 27, 2005)
Manchester United have asked Benfica whether they can pay respects to George Best at their Champions League match on December 7, the Portuguese press have reported. . . . more . . .
Ronaldinho tipped to win 50th European footballer of the year award (Nov 27, 2005)
Silky-smooth Barcelona striker Ronaldinho is being tipped to win the 50th European footballer of the year award at a ceremony here on Monday. . . . more . . .
Hertha show steel to climb to fifth (Nov 27, 2005)
Hertha Berlin came from two goals down to move fifth in the German table after a 2-2 home draw with Borussia Monchengladbach. . . . more . . .
Ballack can replace Zidane at Real says Ronaldo (Nov 27, 2005)
Real Madrid's Brazilian striker Ronaldo has urged Germany captain Michael Ballack to join the nine-time European champions and take over the mantle of ageing French talisman Zinedine Zidane. . . . more . . .
Barcelona thrash Racing while Real struggle to late draw (Nov 27, 2005)
Barcelona hammered Racing Santander 4-1 to stay top of the Spanish first division on goal difference from surprise package Osasuna, but Real Madrid struggled to a 2-2 draw at Real Sociedad. . . . more . . .
Best's funeral to take place on Saturday (Nov 27, 2005)
Football star George Best's funeral will take place in Belfast on Saturday, his agent Phil Hughes said, according to a report. . . . more . . .
Yobo lifts Everton out of drop zone (Nov 27, 2005)
Joseph Yobo's second-half header lifted Everton out of the Premiership's bottom three as the home side sealed a fiery 1-0 win against Newcastle which should have seen Tim Cahill and Celestine Babayaro dismissed for a 43rd minute scuffle. . . . more . . .
Seven-up Osasuna as Real struggle to late draw (Nov 27, 2005)
Osasuna's dream season continued with their seventh consecutive home win, a 3-2 victory over Alaves, while struggling Real Madrid needed two goals in the last three minutes to earn a 2-2 draw at Real Sociedad. . . . more . . .
Rooney stars as United honour Best with victory (Nov 27, 2005)
Wayne Rooney fired Manchester United back to second place in the Premiership with a dazzling performance in his team's 2-1 win at West Ham. . . . more . . .
Osasuna are in seventh heaven after beating Alaves (Nov 27, 2005)
Osasuna's remarkable season continued with their seventh consecutive home win, a 3-2 victory over struggling Alaves. . . . more . . .
PSG lose out in seven-goal thriller (Nov 27, 2005)
Paris Saint Germain squandered the chance to reclaim second place behind runaway leaders Lyon when going down 4-3 at home to modest Lens in the French first division. . . . more . . .
Liverpool revival continues with best run under Benitez (Nov 26, 2005)
Liverpool recorded their longest winning run for two and a half years as they edged out Manchester City 1-0 at the City of Manchester Stadium. . . . more . . .
Celtic shocked by Pars but stay top (Nov 26, 2005)
Celtic crashed to a shock 1-0 defeat at home to Dunfermline, but remained at the top of the Scottish Premier League, with second-placed Hearts only managing a draw away to Motherwell. . . . more . . .
Saha can be a hit for Man Utd Ferguson says (Nov 26, 2005)
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has given a strong vote of confidence to striker Louis Saha now that he has fought his way back to full fitness. . . . more . . .
Substitute Govou saves Lyon's unblemished record (Nov 26, 2005)
Sydney Govou saved Lyon from their first defeat of the season when his late goal earned the four-time champions a 1-1 draw away to Nice. . . . more . . .
Henry chalks up 100-goal milestone (Nov 26, 2005)
Thierry Henry reached another personal milestone as he scored the second goal of the day to help Arsenal secure a 3-0 victory over Blackburn at Highbury. . . . more . . .
Late show Valencia reignite Spanish title push (Nov 26, 2005)
Valencia, who were Spanish champions in 2004, reignited their challenge for the 2005/2006 crown by beating Celta Vigo 2-0 to move into fourth place in the table. . . . more . . .
Wenger hails king Henry the great (Nov 26, 2005)
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger led the tributes as Thierry Henry reached yet another milestone in his glittering Gunners career. . . . more . . .
Record-breaker Lampard seals win with a goal (Nov 26, 2005)
Frank Lampard marked his record-breaking 160th consecutive Premiership appearance with a decisive goal as Chelsea cruised to a 2-0 win at managerless Portsmouth. . . . more . . .
Supersub Inzaghi keeps Milan's title hopes alive (Nov 26, 2005)
Filippo Inzaghi scored a dramatic winner in the fourth minute of stoppage time to give AC Milan a precious 2-1 home victory over struggling Lecce. . . . more . . .
Gray seals points for Birmingham in basement clash (Nov 26, 2005)
Sunderland slumped to an 11th defeat in 14 English Premiership games this season as Julian Gray's second half goal revived Birmingham's survival hopes at the Stadium of Light. . . . more . . .
New contract for Adriaanse at Porto (Nov 26, 2005)
Portuguese giants Porto have extended the contract of their manager Co Adriaanse until 2008, press reports said, citing club chairman Jorge Nuno Pinto da Costa. . . . more . . .
Davis ensures Charlton slump continues (Nov 26, 2005)
Aston Villa had Steven Davis to thank as they edged out Charlton Athletic in a 1-0 win at Villa Park. . . . more . . .
Manchester United end Ballack interest (Nov 26, 2005)
Manchester United have ended their interest in Germany captain Michael Ballack after being told the Bayern Munich midfielder is more interested in joining Real Madrid. . . . more . . .
Bayern go six clear as Kuranyi guns down Bremen (Nov 26, 2005)
Bayern Munich surged six points clear at the Bundesliga summit with a 2-1 win over Mainz 05 at the Allianz Arena. . . . more . . .
Bubble bursts as Wigan lose again (Nov 26, 2005)
Goals from Tottenham duo Robbie Keane and Edgar Davids consigned Wigan to a second home defeat in a row. . . . more . . .
Fans pay tribute to simply the Best (Nov 25, 2005)
From the ordinary football fan to Argentine great Diego Maradona, the tributes to George Best were unanimous in their appraisal of a man whose death has left a huge void in the football world. . . . more . . .
FIFA ruling on Turkey-Switzerland fight in new year (Nov 25, 2005)
FIFA said a disciplinary ruling on violent incidents at the Turkey-Switzerland World Cup qualifier was unlikely to be ready until the new year. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo cleared of rape claims (Nov 25, 2005)
Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo will not face criminal charges over allegations he raped a woman in a London hotel suite, Scotland Yard have confirmed. . . . more . . .
Charlton mourns loss of 'dear friend' Best (Nov 25, 2005)
Sir Bobby Charlton led the tributes from within British football to soccer great George Best following the death of his former Manchester United team-mate. . . . more . . .
Wenger calls Chelsea truce (Nov 25, 2005)
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has withdrawn his threat of legal action against Chelsea coach Jose Mourinho. . . . more . . .
Best to be buried in Belfast (Nov 25, 2005)
Football star George Best, who died aged 59, will be buried in his native Belfast next to his mother, his agent Phil Hughes said. . . . more . . .
Football legend George Best dead at 59 (Nov 25, 2005)
Football legend George Best died in intensive care at a west London hospital after losing his long battle against alcoholism. . . . more . . .
Rooney wants to be Red for decade (Nov 25, 2005)
England striker Wayne Rooney helped lift some of the gloom at Manchester United by declaring himself ready to spend the next 10 years at Old Trafford. . . . more . . .
Britain extols George Best as he lingers on deathbead (Nov 25, 2005)
Britain paid emotional tributes to football legend George Best as fans left flowers, scarves, team shirts and farewell messages outside the London hospital where he languished unconscious on his deathbed. . . . more . . .
1968: Best's glory hour (Nov 25, 2005)
It was undoubtedly George Best's finest moment. . . . more . . .
I want to stay with City, says Sun (Nov 25, 2005)
Chinese international Sun Jihai said he wants to stay with Manchester City despite struggling to hold down a first-team place this season. . . . more . . .
Football legend Best dead at 59 (Nov 25, 2005)
Football legend George Best died at the age of 59 in a west London hospital after losing his long battle against alcoholism. . . . more . . .
George Best: a wayward footballing genius (Nov 25, 2005)
The sublime skills of George Best, who died in a London hospital aged 59, dazzled a generation and made him one of the world's first and foremost footballing superstars. . . . more . . .
Football legend George Best dead (Nov 25, 2005)
Football legend George Best has died in intensive care at a west London hospital. . . . more . . .
Sabrosa doubt for Manchester United clash (Nov 24, 2005)
Benfica captain Simao Sabrosa is doubtful for the Portuguese champions' final Champions League group game against Manchester United on December 7 with a thigh muscle injury. . . . more . . .
Schalke eye more glory in Milan (Nov 24, 2005)
Schalke 04 are in with a great shout of reaching the last sixteen of the Champions League for the first time in their history after Wednesday's 3-0 Group E win over PSV Eindhoven. . . . more . . .
Battling Boro reach UEFA Cup knockout round (Nov 24, 2005)
Middlesbrough reached the knockout stages of the UEFA Cup after a battling 0-0 draw against AZ Alkmaar in the Netherlands kept their European campaign on track. . . . more . . .
I want to stay with City, says Sun (Nov 24, 2005)
Chinese international Sun Jihai said he wants to stay with Manchester City despite struggling to hold down a first-team place this season. . . . more . . .
Late penalty puts Marseille through (Nov 24, 2005)
Marseille secured entry to the last 32 of the UEFA Cup with room to spare after a 1-0 win over Dutch side Heerenveen at the Stade Velodrome. . . . more . . .
Best unlikely to survive next 24 hours (Nov 24, 2005)
Football legend George Best was expected to die within the next 24 hours. . . . more . . .
Pure relief for McLeish as Gers keep Euro dream alive (Nov 24, 2005)
Alex McLeish admitted he had felt "pure relief" when substitute Ross McCormack scored a late equaliser against FC Porto to keep Rangers' European dream alive and throw his embattled manager a lifeline. . . . more . . .
South Korea names training squad after Advocaat lets rip (Nov 24, 2005)
World Cup-bound South Korea has announced a 32-strong squad for an overseas tour after coach Dick Advocaat let rip at K-League clubs who were refusing to release their players. . . . more . . .
McLeish tells Rangers to forget Europe (Nov 24, 2005)
Rangers manager Alex McLeish has told his side to forget about the Champions League and concentrate on their worrying domestic position instead. . . . more . . .
Dunn rallies to Bruce cause (Nov 24, 2005)
Spiky Birmingham midfielder David Dunn has rallied to the defence of under-pressure manager Steve Bruce, insisting the former Manchester United defender can turn the Blues season around. . . . more . . .
Bayern's Sagnol set for move (Nov 24, 2005)
France defender Willy Sagnol revealed he would make a decision on his Bayern Munich future within the next two weeks. . . . more . . .
Chelsea not interested in Ballack says Kenyon (Nov 24, 2005)
Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon has poured cold water on claims that the Premiership champions have entered the race to sign Bayern Munich midfielder Michael Ballack. . . . more . . .
Rio hails United strike force as world's best (Nov 24, 2005)
Rio Ferdinand has shrugged off concerns over Manchester United's recent scoring problems, insisting any club in the world would want Ruud van Nistelrooy and Wayne Rooney in their attack. . . . more . . .
Lennon invests in Celtic's future (Nov 24, 2005)
Celtic captain Neil Lennon has bought shares in the club to help fund the Scottish Premier League leaders' new academy. . . . more . . .
Best at death's door: doctor (Nov 24, 2005)
Football legend George Best was at death's door in hospital and is unlikely to live another day, his doctors said. . . . more . . .
Goal-shy Crouch is crucial for us says Benitez (Nov 24, 2005)
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has insisted goal-shy striker Peter Crouch is vital to the English club's defence of their Champions League title. . . . more . . .
United will be my last job, says Ferguson (Nov 24, 2005)
Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson insisted again that he will quit management for good once he leaves Old Trafford. . . . more . . .
Best suffers 'worst night' so far (Nov 24, 2005)
Football legend George Best had his "worst night so far" since he was admitted to a London hospital nearly two months ago with life-threatening infections. . . . more . . .
Vaz Te rescues Bolton (Nov 24, 2005)
Supersub Ricardo Vaz Te scored a late equaliser as Bolton drew 1-1 against Vitoria Guimaraes to edge closer to the knockout stages of the UEFA Cup. . . . more . . .
Best on death's doorstep (Nov 24, 2005)
Football legend George Best was on death's doorstep in hospital and unlikely to live another day. . . . more . . .
Arsenal rocked by full-back crisis (Nov 24, 2005)
Arsenal's hopes of catching Premiership leaders Chelsea suffered a setback when left-backs Ashley Cole and Gael Clichy were sidelined until at least the new year. . . . more . . .
Rooney wants to be Red for decade (Nov 24, 2005)
England striker Wayne Rooney helped lift some of the gloom at Manchester United by declaring himself ready to spend the next 10 years at Old Trafford. . . . more . . .
Turkey coach Ozdilek regrets Swiss trouble (Nov 24, 2005)
Mehmet Ozdilek, Turkey's assistant coach who resigned after being blamed for the violence that marred their World Cup play-off defeat to Switzerland last week, said he regretted sparking the trouble. . . . more . . .
Pires loyal to Arsenal (Nov 24, 2005)
France forward Robert Pires insists he will not leave Arsenal during the January transfer window and wants to stay at the club beyond the end of the season. . . . more . . .
China's Sun on trial at Wigan (Nov 24, 2005)
Shanghai Shenhua midfielder Sun Xiang is on a week-long trial with high-flying English Premiership side Wigan Athletic. . . . more . . .
Perrin sacked as Pompey boss (Nov 24, 2005)
Alain Perrin has been sacked as manager of Portsmouth, the struggling Premiership club announced. . . . more . . .
'Prepare for the worst' says doctor treating Best (Nov 24, 2005)
Football legend George Best, who is critically ill and fighting a life-threatening infection, had a "bad night" and his condition "deteriorated slightly", a hospital spokesman said. . . . more . . .
Lyon assured of heading group thanks to solid Carew (Nov 23, 2005)
French champions Lyon assured themselves of winning Group F in the Champions League as a goal by John Carew saw them come from behind to draw 1-1 with Real Madrid. . . . more . . .
Figo promises more after ending goal drought (Nov 23, 2005)
Inter Milan will win Group H and qualify for the Champions League's knockout stages with victory over Artmedia Bratislava at the San Siro. . . . more . . .
Stade de France acts to placate grassed off players (Nov 23, 2005)
The Stade de France is to have a brand new pitch lain down in response to widespread criticism by players and managers over the poor state of the grass at the 1998 World Cup venue. . . . more . . .
McCormack keeps Rangers European dream alive (Nov 23, 2005)
A stunning late equaliser from substitute Ross McCormack kept Rangers' Champions League dream alive with a 1-1 draw at FC Porto. . . . more . . .
Liverpool and Chelsea eye Champions League knockout round (Nov 23, 2005)
Premiership giants Chelsea and Liverpool will be eyeing a spot in the Champions League knockout round as Inter Milan, PSV Eindhoven, Glasgow Rangers and Schalke 04 also target qualification. . . . more . . .
Schalke face Milan showdown for last sixteen spot (Nov 23, 2005)
Schalke 04 gave themselves a great chance of reaching the Champions League knockout phase for the first time with a 3-0 Group E win over PSV Eindhoven. . . . more . . .
Player power saves Pompey boss (Nov 23, 2005)
Portsmouth manager Alain Perrin has saved his job after the players begged chairman Milan Mandaric not to sack him. . . . more . . .
Cole urges Chelsea to get back to winning ways at Anderlecht (Nov 23, 2005)
Chelsea's England midfielder Joe Cole believes it is vital the Premiership champions get back to winning ways away from home in Europe with victory over struggling Anderlecht. . . . more . . .
Shevchenko hits four as AC Milan thrashes Fenerbahce (Nov 23, 2005)
Four goals by Andriy Shevchenko earned AC Milan a 4-0 victory over Fenerbahce here on Wednesday, reigniting their campaign in the hotly contested Group E in the Champions League. . . . more . . .
Champions take place in last 16 (Nov 23, 2005)
Defending champions Liverpool made sure of their place in the knockout phase of the Champions League with a comfortable goalless draw against Real Betis. . . . more . . .
Classy Chelsea motor into Champions League knockout stages (Nov 23, 2005)
Chelsea motored into the Champions League knockout stages following a 2-0 win over Anderlecht, showing a clear gulf in class between the two sides. . . . more . . .
Turkish football boss apologises to Swiss for match trouble (Nov 23, 2005)
Turkish football federation president Levent Bicakci apologized to his Swiss counterpart Ralph Zloczower for fighting that followed last week's 2006 World Cup play-off match with Switzerland in Istanbul. . . . more . . .
Artmedia bow to Emperor Adriano as Inter reach last 16 (Nov 23, 2005)
Brazilian striker Adriano scored a stunning hat-trick as Inter Milan reached the Champions League knockout stages with a comprehensive 4-0 win over Artmedia Bratislava in their behind closed doors clash. . . . more . . .
McLeish could make history and still lose job (Nov 23, 2005)
Rangers could become the first ever Scottish club to qualify from the group stages of the Champions League but manager Alex McLeish is still likely to face the sack. . . . more . . .
PSV progression could cap fantastic November for Hiddink (Nov 23, 2005)
Last season's semi-finalists PSV Eindhoven can book their place in the last sixteen of the Champions League with a win at Schalke 04. . . . more . . .
Fergie backs Lyon as Champions League contenders (Nov 23, 2005)
For those who like a bet as much as Sir Alex Ferguson, the Manchester United boss has an unexpected tip about the identity of this season's Champions League winners. . . . more . . .
Carew's cheeky backheel ensures Lyon head Champions League group (Nov 23, 2005)
A cheeky backheel by Norwegian striker John Carew ensured French champions Lyon earned top spot in Champions League Group F after a 1-1 draw at Real Madrid. . . . more . . .
Vodafone ends United sponsorship early (Nov 23, 2005)
Vodafone, the British mobile phone giant, is ending its 35 million pound sponsorship deal with Manchester United two years early.