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Neville backing young gun Johnson to shine for England (Aug 31, 2006)

Phil Neville is backing Andy Johnson to shine if his Everton teammate gets the nod and plays in Steve McClaren's first competitive game in charge of England. . . . more . . .

Gerrard demands England show ruthless streak (Aug 31, 2006)

Steven Gerrard insists England must show no mercy against European whipping boys Andorra in Steve McClaren's first competitive match in charge of the national side. . . . more . . .

Ferguson sends Italian on loan to Newcastle (Aug 31, 2006)

Manchester United forward Giuseppe Rossi has gone to Newcastle on loan until January but will not be allowed to play against the Old Trafford club. . . . more . . .

German great Kohler turns down Ivory Coast job (Aug 31, 2006)

West Germany's 1990 World Cup winner Jurgen Kohler has turned down the chance to become the new manager of the Ivory Coast. . . . more . . .

Real Betis forward Ricardo Oliveira (front) is tackled by Chelsea defender Ricardo Carvalho

AC Milan sign Brazil striker Oliveira (Aug 31, 2006)

AC Milan have completed the signing of Brazilian striker Ricardo Oliveira from Spanish club Real Betis. . . . more . . .

Javier Mascherano (L) watches as Carlos Tevez controls the ball

Argentina duo announce Hammers move (Aug 31, 2006)

Argentina international forward Carlos Tevez has revealed that he is set for a move to West Ham along with national team colleague Javier Mascherano. . . . more . . .

O'Neill keen to land Saviola and Agathe (Aug 31, 2006)

Aston Villa manager Martin O'Neill appears determined to bolster the squad ahead of the official transfer deadline. . . . more . . .

Argentina captain Sorin joins Hamburg (Aug 31, 2006)

SV Hamburg have pulled off a major transfer coup before the transfer deadline with Argentina captain Juan Pablo Sorin. . . . more . . .

Juventus hint at compromise over match-fixing punishment (Aug 31, 2006)

Juventus, who were relegated to Serie B and given a 17-point penalty for the start of the forthcoming season for match-fixing, are considering cancelling their civil court action if the Italian football federation (FIGC) reduce their punishment. . . . more . . .

Egypt defender Mohammed Abdel Wahab (R) avoids a tackle from his Ivory Coast counterpart Emmanuel Eboue

Egypt football international dies in training (Aug 31, 2006)

Egyptian international defender Mohammed Abdel Wahab has died of a heart attack while training with his club, champions Al-Ahly. . . . more . . .

Andy Cole (R) vies for the ball during a Premiership match against Manchester United

Cole moves to Pompey (Aug 31, 2006)

Former England international striker Andy Cole has moved from Manchester City to Portsmouth on a two-year contract. . . . more . . .

FIFA set to sanction Portuguese federation: report (Aug 31, 2006)

World football's ruling body FIFA could sanction the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) for its part in the demotion of former top flight side Gil Vicente. . . . more . . .

Newcastle's James Milner (L) vies for the ball with Lillestrom's Robert Koren

Magpie Milner set for Villa move (Aug 31, 2006)

Aston Villa are set to sign Newcastle winger James Milner on a long-term deal. . . . more . . .

Hamburg capture Serbian striker Ljuboja on loan (Aug 31, 2006)

SV Hamburg have moved quickly to sign Serbia and Montenegro international striker Danijel Ljuboja on a season's loan from German rivals VfB Stuttgart. . . . more . . .

Knezevic heads for Livorno (Aug 31, 2006)

Croatia international and Rijeka defender Dario Knezevic has signed a three year contract with Italian first division side Livorno. . . . more . . .

Time to focus on Euro 2008 glory says Ballack (Aug 31, 2006)

Michael Ballack believes Germany must forget about the euphoria which engulfed the country at this summer's World Cup and switch the focus to the upcoming Euro 2008 qualifiers. . . . more . . .

Malbranque makes Tottenham switch (Aug 31, 2006)

Tottenham have signed French midfielder Steed Malbranque from Fulham for an undisclosed fee. . . . more . . .

Champions League triumph is inevitable says Mourinho (Aug 31, 2006)

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho insists it is only a matter of time before his side win the Champions League. . . . more . . .

Burdisso extends Inter contract (Aug 31, 2006)

Argentina international Nicolas Burdisso has extended his contract with Inter Milan that will keep him at the club until 2009, the Serie A champions confirmed. . . . more . . .

Beckenbauer may run for executive post with FIFA (Aug 31, 2006)

Franz Beckenbauer, who won the World Cup with West Germany as a player and coach, has revealed that he may put himself forward for a place on the executive committee of football's governing body FIFA. . . . more . . .

England players take part in a training session

Ferdinand faces fitness battle (Aug 31, 2006)

Rio Ferdinand is struggling to be fit in time for England's Euro 2008 qualifiers against Andorra and Macedonia. . . . more . . .

Germany's Metzelder out for two months (Aug 31, 2006)

German international defender Christoph Metzelder will be sidelined for the next two months after undergoing an operation on his right knee, his club Borussia Dortmund have revealed. . . . more . . .

I'm staying at Barcelona insists Saviola (Aug 31, 2006)

Argentina international Javier Saviola has flatly rejected talk of a move away from Barcelona and said he is ready to fight for a first team place with the Spanish giants. . . . more . . .

Kromkamp, Kluivert set for PSV switch (Aug 31, 2006)

Liverpool's Dutch international defender Jan Kromkamp is about to sign for Dutch champions PSV Eindhoven. . . . more . . .

Chelsea fined after breaching doping rules (Aug 31, 2006)

Chelsea have been fined 40,000 pounds by the English Football Association for breaching the governing body's doping regulations. . . . more . . .

Inter Milan owner admits Ronaldo interest (Aug 31, 2006)

Inter Milan owner Massimo Moratti has admitted he is interested in signing Ronaldo from Real Madrid. . . . more . . .

Woodgate targets England return (Aug 31, 2006)

Real Madrid defender Jonathan Woodgate believes his loan move to Middlesbrough can be the springboard for an England recall. . . . more . . .

Pressure can be too much says Lampard (Aug 31, 2006)

Frank Lampard has admitted that the pressure of playing for England can affect the team's performances. . . . more . . .

Van Basten scotches talk of contract extension (Aug 31, 2006)

Holland coach Marco van Basten has scotched talk of a possible extension of his contract which currently runs till the Euro 2008 finals in Switzerland and Austria The Dutch football federation president Henk Kessler said after this year's World Cup finals that he wanted the former European footballer of the year to stay in the job till 2010. . . . more . . .

Stuttgart defender Magnin to stay put (Aug 31, 2006)

Swiss international and Stuttgart defender Ludovic Magnin has said that a planned transfer to AS Roma in Italy has fallen through. . . . more . . .

Argentina's Tevez and Mascherano sign for Hammers (Aug 31, 2006)

English Premiership club West Ham have confirmed the surprise signings of Argentina internationals Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano from Corinthians. . . . more . . .

Kilbane joins Wigan while Chimbonda heads for the exit (Aug 31, 2006)

English Premiership club Wigan signed Republic of Ireland midfielder Kevin Kilbane from Everton. . . . more . . .

Yorke joins Keane's Sunderland revolution (Aug 31, 2006)

Dwight Yorke was reunited with former Manchester United teammate Roy Keane at struggling English Championship club Sunderland. . . . more . . .

Ex-England boss Robson suffers loss of movement after brain tumor surgery (Aug 31, 2006)

Former England manager Bobby Robson suffered a loss of movement in his limbs while recovering from brain tumor surgery, his spokeswoman said. . . . more . . .

No Ronaldo/Adriano swap deal says Inter (Aug 31, 2006)

No swap deal between Inter Milan and Real Madrid concerning Adriano and Ronaldo would be taking place said an official of the Italian club, according to media. . . . more . . .

Kromkamp makes PSV switch with Kluivert to follow (Aug 31, 2006)

Liverpool defender Jan Kromkamp signed for Dutch champions PSV Eindhoven. . . . more . . .

Juventus drop latest action (Aug 31, 2006)

Juventus, who were relegated to Serie B and given a 17-point penalty for match-fixing, dropped their planned civil court action against the Italian football federation (FIGC). . . . more . . .

Real in Reyes-Baptista loan swap (Aug 31, 2006)

Real Madrid agreed to a one-year loan swap deal involving them securing the services of Arsenal's Spanish international winger Jose Antonio Reyes with Brazilian attacking midfielder Julio Baptista going to the Gunners, Spanish media reported the Spanish outfit as saying. . . . more . . .

Juventus drop civil action (Aug 31, 2006)

Juventus, who were relegated to Serie B and given a 17-point penalty for match-fixing, dropped their planned civil court action against the Italian football federation (FIGC). . . . more . . .

Kranjcar set for Portsmouth (Aug 31, 2006)

Hajduk Split's Croatia midfielder Niko Kranjcar joined English Premiership side Portsmouth on a 4.5 million euro (5.8m dollars) four-year deal. . . . more . . .

Rangers release unwanted four (Aug 31, 2006)

Rangers parted company with Marvin Andrews, Bob Malcolm, Jose Pierre-Fanfan and Olivier Bernard after reaching agreements to have their contracts terminated. . . . more . . .

Real and Arsenal in Reyes-Baptista loan swap (Aug 31, 2006)

Real Madrid agreed to a one-year loan swap deal involving them securing the services of Arsenal's Spanish international winger Jose Antonio Reyes with Brazilian midfielder Julio Baptista going to the Gunners, Real confirmed on their website. . . . more . . .

Rangers agree Papac deal (Aug 31, 2006)

Rangers completed the signing of Austria Vienna defender Sasa Papac on a three-year deal. . . . more . . .

Brazilian midfielder Magrao quits Yokohama and Japan (Aug 31, 2006)

Brazilian midfielder Magrao has quit former J-League champions Yokohama Marinos and left Japan to be close to his ill mother in Brazil. . . . more . . .

Ronaldo makes light of Rooney bust-up (Aug 30, 2006)

Cristiano Ronaldo claims reports of a bust-up with Manchester United teammate Wayne Rooney after Portugal's World Cup quarter-final win were, like England's penalties that day, wide of the mark. . . . more . . .

Argentina captain Sorin close to Hamburg switch (Aug 30, 2006)

SV Hamburg hope to pull off a major transfer coup before the transfer deadline with Argentina international captain Juan Pablo Sorin expected for a medical. . . . more . . .

Villa complete Petrov swoop (Aug 30, 2006)

Aston Villa has signed Bulgaria midfielder Stilian Petrov from Scottish champions Celtic. . . . more . . .

Kluivert set to sign for Eindhoven: report (Aug 30, 2006)

Former Dutch international striker Patrick Kluivert is reportedly set to sign for PSV Eindhoven providing he passes some physical tests. . . . more . . .

Ferdinand misses England training (Aug 30, 2006)

England defender Rio Ferdinand has sat out his country's opening training session ahead of their Euro 2008 qualifiers against Andorra and Macedonia as he recovers from a foot injury. . . . more . . .

Inter to face Fiorentina on opening day, Juve begin life in Serie B (Aug 30, 2006)

The Italian football league announced the fixture lists for the forthcoming Serie A and Serie B seasons. . . . more . . .

We let Eriksson down says Phil Neville (Aug 30, 2006)

England defender Phil Neville admitted former coach Sven-Goran Eriksson had been let down by his players. . . . more . . .

Liverpool's Neill offer rejected (Aug 30, 2006)

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has had an offer for Australia defender Lucas Neill rejected by Blackburn. . . . more . . .

Kilbane backs Ireland to end qualifying drought (Aug 30, 2006)

Republic of Ireland midfielder Kevin Kilbane insists his country can finally end their dismal qualifying record and reach Euro 2008. . . . more . . .

Kahn tells Hargreaves to knuckle down (Aug 30, 2006)

Bayern Munich captain Oliver Kahn has told team-mate Owen Hargreaves to roll up his sleeves and accept the fact that his dream of joining titans Manchester United is now over. . . . more . . .

Frank Lampart shares a light moment during an England training session

Lampard sharper than ever claims England skipper (Aug 30, 2006)

Frank Lampard has put his poor World Cup form behind him and is sharper than ever ahead of England's opening Euro 2008 qualifiers, his Chelsea teammate John Terry claims. . . . more . . .

FA deflects Wembley criticism saying 'we're not the builders' (Aug 30, 2006)

The Football Association has been unfairly attacked over delays to the new Wembley stadium, its chief executive Brian Barwick claimed. . . . more . . .

Roma chasing South Korean defender Lee (Aug 30, 2006)

Serie A club Roma are close to signing Tottenham's South Korean international Lee Young-pyo, according to the Corriere dello Sport. . . . more . . .

Van der Sar keen to sign new two-year deal (Aug 30, 2006)

Manchester United's Dutch goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar has said he hoped to sign a new two-year deal keeping him at Old Trafford until 2009. . . . more . . .

Cole urged to be positive if Chelsea move fails (Aug 30, 2006)

With the transfer deadline almost up Arsenal chairman Peter Hill-Wood has urged Ashley Cole to adopt the right attitude if his move to Chelsea falls through. . . . more . . .

Real Betis confirm signings of Sobis and Ondokor (Aug 30, 2006)

Spanish first division club Real Betis has confirmed the signings of Brazilian striker Rafael Sobis and German midfielder David Ondokor. . . . more . . .

Vieri joins Atalanta (Aug 30, 2006)

Journeyman striker Christian Vieri has signed a one-year contract with Atalanta, the newly-promoted Serie A side has confirmed. . . . more . . .

City hand Thatcher six-match ban (Aug 30, 2006)

Manchester City handed Ben Thatcher a six-match suspension and fined him six-week's wages for the horrific challenge that left Portsmouth's Pedro Mendes in hospital. . . . more . . .

Ronaldo/Adriano swap deal reportedly agreed in principle (Aug 30, 2006)

Real Madrid have reportedly agreed in principle a swap deal with Inter Milan with Ronaldo going back to his former Italian club and fellow striker Adriano going in the other direction. . . . more . . .

It could be a Real swap shop for meringues (Aug 30, 2006)

Real Madrid have agreed in principle a swap deal with Inter Milan with Ronaldo going back to his former Italian club and fellow striker Adriano going in the other direction, according to Cadena Ser radio. . . . more . . .

England's footballers -- they're having a laugh (Aug 30, 2006)

Steven Gerrard believes England will benefit from the light-hearted atmosphere encouraged by new coach Steve McClaren. . . . more . . .

Villarreal sign Argentine defender (Aug 30, 2006)

Spanish championship side Villarreal signed experienced Argentine defender Fabricio Fuentes from Mexican outfit Atlas de Guadalajara. . . . more . . .

Celtic clinch Gravesen signing (Aug 30, 2006)

Scottish champions Celtic have signed Denmark midfielder Thomas Gravesen from Real Madrid for an undisclosed fee. . . . more . . .

Magpies swoop for Rossi (Aug 30, 2006)

English Premiership side Newcastle sought to fill the gap left by long-term injury victim Michael Owen by signing highly-rated Manchester United striker Giuseppe Rossi on a one-season loan. . . . more . . .

Zidane says adios to six million euros (Aug 30, 2006)

Zinedine Zidane has kissed goodbye to six million euros, the salary he would have received for the final year of his contract at Real Madrid before retiring at the end of last season. . . . more . . .

Brazil go nuts friendly as they roll on with Swiss (Aug 30, 2006)

World Cup finals flops Brazil have lined up another friendly which will see them play Switzerland in a friendly on November 15 in Basel it was announced by the Brazilian Football Confederation. . . . more . . .

Keane promises to be more saint than sinner (Aug 29, 2006)

Roy Keane has insisted Sunderland's players will see his often-hidden calmer side after he was unveiled as the English Championship club's new manager. . . . more . . .

Maniche signs for Atletico Madrid (Aug 29, 2006)

Portuguese international midfielder Maniche has signed for Atletico Madrid from Russian giants Dynamo Moscow, the Spanish top-flight club announced. . . . more . . .

AC Milan courting Robinho (Aug 29, 2006)

Italian giants AC Milan have had a 25 million euro bid for Brazilian forward Robinho rejected by Real Madrid, according to a sports daily. . . . more . . .

Trezeguet is staying, insist Juve (Aug 29, 2006)

Juventus director Alessio Secco has insisted that France international David Trezeguet will not leave the scandal-hit Turin club to join English Premiership giants Manchester United. . . . more . . .

Bellamy can be our ace says Wales defender Gabbidon (Aug 29, 2006)

Liverpool striker Craig Bellamy can help Wales mount a serious challenge for a place at Euro 2008 according to his international team-mate Danny Gabbidon. . . . more . . .

Mido back at Spurs and itching to play at the Lane (Aug 29, 2006)

Egypt striker Mido has said he can't wait to pull a Tottenham shirt back on after agreeing to rejoin Spurs from Roma. . . . more . . .

Angry Ronaldinho denies Israel-Lebanon claims (Aug 29, 2006)

Barcelona striker Ronaldinho has angrily denied claims by a Moroccan newspaper that he showed indifference to the suffering of Lebanese children killed in the recent war with Israel. . . . more . . .

Eriksson was not 'expensive mistake': FA chief (Aug 29, 2006)

Sven-Goran Eriksson was not an 'expensive failure' as England manager despite failing to get past the quarter-final stage of three major tournaments, his former employers the Football Association insisted. . . . more . . .

Georgia pins hopes on Toppmoller for showdown with France (Aug 29, 2006)

Football-mad Georgia is hoping the combination of Teutonic discipline under new coach Klaus Toppmoller, technical skill and the creativity of its home-grown players will open the door for the country's national squad to the Euro 2008 finals. . . . more . . .

King targets Manchester United return (Aug 29, 2006)

Tottenham captain Ledley King insists he is on target to return to action against Manchester United next month. . . . more . . .

AC Milan's players warm up during a training session

Conciliation talks fail for AC Milan and Fiorentina (Aug 29, 2006)

Serie A clubs AC Milan and Fiorentina will turn to the Italian Olympic Committee's (CONI) Court of Arbitration in a final attempt to have their punishments for match-fixing overturned. . . . more . . .

Drogba's Milan chat sparks transfer speculation (Aug 29, 2006)

Chelsea striker Didier Drogba was spotted talking to AC Milan vice-president Adriano Galliano in a Milan restaurant on Monday, sparking speculation in the Italian media of a possible move by the Italian club to sign the Ivory Coast international. . . . more . . .

Southgate tells Tottenham to forget about Downing (Aug 29, 2006)

England winger Stewart Downing will stay at Middlesbrough despite firm interest from Tottenham, according to his manager Gareth Southgate. . . . more . . .

Arsenal gunning for Tevez (Aug 29, 2006)

Arsenal are set to make a 17 million pound move for want-away Argentina striker Carlos Tevez of Corinthians, newspapers have reported. . . . more . . .

Spurs set to swoop for Mido (Aug 29, 2006)

Tottenham are set to swoop for Egyptian striker Mido, who spent last season on loan at the Premiership club from Roma. . . . more . . .

Odonkor signs for Real Betis (Aug 29, 2006)

German international midfielder David Odonkor has signed a five-year contract with Real Betis in Spain from Borussia Dortmund, the German club has announced. . . . more . . .

Makelele insists he's no slave and is proud to play for France (Aug 29, 2006)

Chelsea midfielder Claude Makelele has insisted that he is not being treated by France coach Raymond Domenech like a slave, as claimed by his club coach Jose Mourinho. . . . more . . .

'I want to stay at Real', says Ronaldo (Aug 29, 2006)

Brazilian striker Ronaldo, whose future at Real Madrid has been the centre of intense speculation, has said he wants to stay at the Spanish giants for several years to come. . . . more . . .

Hargreaves has 'no chance' of securing United move: agent (Aug 29, 2006)

England international Owen Hargreaves has "no chance" of joining Manchester United from Bayern Munich before Thursday's transfer dealine, his agent has said. . . . more . . .

Italy's Buffon unfazed by pressure (Aug 29, 2006)

Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon believes the Azzurri can handle the extra weight of expectation that comes with being world champions. . . . more . . .

Manchester United table bid for Trezeguet (Aug 29, 2006)

Manchester United have tabled a take-it-or-leave-it bid of 15 million pounds (28.5 million dollars) for Juventus' France international David Trezeguet, according to an Italian sports daily. . . . more . . .

Buffon slams FIFA for Materazzi ban (Aug 29, 2006)

Italy keeper Gianluigi Buffon has slammed FIFA for the two-match ban they gave Marco Materazzi for his role in the dismissal of Zinedine Zidane in the World Cup final. . . . more . . .

Walcott must wait says McClaren (Aug 29, 2006)

England manager Steve McClaren has told teenage prodigy Theo Walcott he must gain more experience before he can expect an international recall. . . . more . . .

AC Milan set for final CONI appeal after conciliation fails (Aug 29, 2006)

AC Milan will turn to the Italian Olympic Committee's (CONI) Court of Arbitration in a final attempt to have their punishment for match-fixing overturned. . . . more . . .

Beckham extends Real contract by two years (Aug 28, 2006)

Former England captain David Beckham has signed a two-year contract extension with Real Madrid, the president of the Spanish giants has announced. . . . more . . .

Players can retire from international football: FIFA (Aug 28, 2006)

FIFA declined to comment on the specifics of the row between Chelsea and France over Claude Makelele, but underlined that any player is allowed to retire from international football. . . . more . . .

Valencia wrap up Joaquin deal (Aug 28, 2006)

Valencia have finally tied up the signing of Spanish international winger Joaquin from Real Betis on Monday. . . . more . . .

Real deal nowhere to be seen on day one (Aug 28, 2006)

Real Madrid's new coach Fabio Capello was at pains ahead of his side's opening league game against Villarreal to stress that he was not an exponent of creating "boring sides" who know how to win. . . . more . . .

Portugal's Nani in for Quaresma (Aug 28, 2006)

Sporting Lisbon striker Nani will replace Ricardo Quaresma for Portugal in a friendly against Denmark and their Euro 2008 qualifier against Finland, the Portuguese Football Federation said. . . . more . . .

Real Betis snap up Brazilian pair (Aug 28, 2006)

Real Betis have boosted their team for the coming season by signing Brazilian midfielder Jorge Wagner from Porto Alegre, the club announced. . . . more . . .

Italy coach Donadoni tips Cassano to shine again (Aug 28, 2006)

Italy coach Roberto Donadoni predicted that Antonio Cassano will shine again after almost 15 months in the international wilderness. . . . more . . .

Kezman signs for Fenerbahce (Aug 28, 2006)

Serbian international striker Mateja Kezman has signed a four-year contract with Turkish first division side Fenerbahce. . . . more . . .

No complacency from Italy: Cannavaro (Aug 28, 2006)

World Cup-winning captain Fabio Cannavaro insisted that Italy will not be lacking in motivation for their 2008 European championship campaign. . . . more . . .

Legal battle can be avoided if sentence reduced, say Juve (Aug 28, 2006)

Juventus president Giovanni Cobolli Gigli says a legal battle in the civil courts over their punishment for match-fixing can be avoided if the Italian football authorities reduce their punishment. . . . more . . .

Beckham denies extending Real contract (Aug 28, 2006)

Former England captain David Beckham has denied that he has extended his contract with Real Madrid by two years, as reported by the president of the Spanish giants. . . . more . . .

Rangers boss won't panic over another draw (Aug 28, 2006)

Rangers boss Paul Le Guen believes his team will discover their cutting edge despite being held 2-2 at Kilmarnock, their third draw in five Scottish Premier League matches this season. . . . more . . .

Bolton bid to lure Malbranque with 'French influence' (Aug 28, 2006)

Bolton boss Sam Allardyce is hoping to attract Frenchman Steed Malbranque from Fulham with the lure of an increasing "French influence" at the north England club. . . . more . . .

Ferdinand fit for Euro 2008 qualifiers (Aug 28, 2006)

Defender Rio Ferdinand has been passed fit for England's Euro 2008 qualifiers with Andorra and Macedonia. . . . more . . .

Van Bommel signs for Bayern (Aug 28, 2006)

German champions Bayern Munich said Monday they have completed the signing of Dutch international midfielder Mark van Bommel from Spanish champions Barcelona. . . . more . . .

Gudjohnsen Barca's hero on debut (Aug 28, 2006)

Champions League holders and Spanish champions Barcelona rebounded from their shock 3-0 defeat by Sevailla in the European Super Cup last Firday by edging Celta Vigo 3-2 in their opening league match on Monday. . . . more . . .

Odonkor to leave Dortmund for Real Betis (Aug 28, 2006)

Borussia Dortmund announced they have reached agreement to transfer German international midfielder David Odonkor to Real Betis in Spain. . . . more . . .

O'Neill effect inspires Villa to victory (Aug 27, 2006)

Martin O'Neill's honeymoon period at Villa Park is showing no signs of being broken as his new side romped to a 2-0 victory over Newcastle at Villa Park. . . . more . . .

Joey Barton(L) battles with Cese Fabregas

Wenger pledges Arsenal recovery as United set pace (Aug 27, 2006)

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has vowed his sluggish team would get into gear after they lost further ground on English Premiership pace-setters Manchester United. . . . more . . .

France treat Makelele like a slave: Mourinho (Aug 27, 2006)

Jose Mourinho has accused France coach Raymond Domenech of treating Claude Makelele like a slave after refusing to accept the Chelsea midfielder's international retirement. . . . more . . .

Real Madrid's Ruud Van Nistelrooy (L) vies with Villarreal's Juan Pena (R)

Capello made to feel unwelcome as Real held by Villarreal (Aug 27, 2006)

Real Madrid's bid to end the glory days of arch rivals Barcelona got off to a stuttering start with a frustrating 0-0 draw at home to east coast side Villarreal. . . . more . . .

Gravesen close to Celtic move (Aug 27, 2006)

Scottish champions Celtic are the frontrunners to sign Real Madrid's out-of-favour midfielder Thomas Gravesen, according to the player's agent John Sivebaek. . . . more . . .

Berlin's Dick van Burik (R) vies for the ball against Hamburg's Boubacar Sanogo

Draw specialists Hamburg still waiting for win (Aug 27, 2006)

SV Hamburg's stuttering start to the season continued as they drew 1-1 with Hertha Berlin. . . . more . . .

Valencia beat Lyon to Joaquin signature (Aug 27, 2006)

French champions Lyon's hopes of hijacking Spain winger Joaquin move from Real Betis to Valencia were scuppered, according to Spanish radio station Cadena Ser. . . . more . . .

Chelsea's Didier Drogba (L) gets a hug from Andriy Shevchenko

Chelsea muzzle Rovers to join Premiership hunt (Aug 27, 2006)

Chelsea forwards Frank Lampard and Didier Drogba scored a goal apiece to silence the club's critics and rejoin the Premiership title race after a 2-0 win at Blackburn. . . . more . . .

Marseille's Toifilou Maoulida (L) vies with Le Mans' Laurent Bonnart (R)

Marseille complete week to remember by going top (Aug 27, 2006)

Marseille reclaimed top spot in the French League when a 2-0 win over Le Mans completed a memorable week in which they also reached the knockout round of the UEFA Cup. . . . more . . .

Real jeered as Capello's men draw blank (Aug 27, 2006)

Real Madrid's bid to end the glory days of arch rivals Barcelona got off to a stuttering start with a frustrating 0-0 draw at home to Villarreal. . . . more . . .

Wenger remaining calm over Cole (Aug 27, 2006)

Arsene Wenger insists he is not frustrated by the continuing uncertainty surrounding Ashley Cole's future despite Arsenal's stuttering start to their Premiership campaign. . . . more . . .

Stem cell cultures are held up in a US lab

Footballers using babies as 'repair kits' (Aug 27, 2006)

Premiership footballers are storing stem cells from their newborn babies to use in case of their own career-threatening sports injuries. . . . more . . .

Wes Brown(Top) is tackled by Gavin Mahon

Ferguson praises his team of battlers (Aug 27, 2006)

Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson reckons his side have the battling qualities necessary to sustain their position at the top of the English Premiership. . . . more . . .

Keane confirmed as Sunderland boss (Aug 27, 2006)

Former Manchester United and Republic of Ireland skipper Roy Keane will be confirmed as Sunderland manager after Monday's Championship match against West Brom, the club said. . . . more . . .

Juventus' Alessandro Del Piero (L) vies with Naples' Mariano Bogliacino

Napoli dump Juve out of Italian Cup (Aug 27, 2006)

Juventus, who have been thrown into the second division for match-fixing, were bundled out of the Italian Cup after losing a tense penalty shoot-out against fierce rivals Napoli in front of 55,000 fans at the San Paolo stadium. . . . more . . .

Liverpool's Dirk Kuyt makes his debut against West Ham United

Benitez ready to let Kuyt fly (Aug 27, 2006)

Rafa Benitez expects Dutchman Dirk Kuyt to provide the cutting edge that can turn Liverpool into English Premiership title challengers. . . . more . . .

Reyes insists Gunners career over (Aug 27, 2006)

Arsenal's Spanish international striker Jose Antonio Reyes insisted that his Premiership career is over. . . . more . . .

Mourinho under pressure ahead of Blackburn trip (Aug 26, 2006)

Jose Mourinho has been a virtual stranger to adversity during his glittering managerial career, but the Chelsea manager finds himself under peculiar scrutiny ahead of the Premiership meeting with Blackburn on Sunday. . . . more . . .

Munich's Italian midfielder Martin Demichelis (L) and French defender Willy Sagnol (C) vie for the ball

Toothless Bayern held as Makaay fluffs lines (Aug 26, 2006)

Reigning champions Bayern Munich missed the chance to move top of the Bundesliga after a 0-0 stalemate with neighbours FC Nuremberg. . . . more . . .

David Bellion(L) heads for the ball with Jeremy Toulalan

Lyon set pace as PSG and Nantes stunned (Aug 26, 2006)

Five-in-a-row champions Lyon underlined their title credentials with a crushing 4-1 win away at Nice which put them top of the French league table. . . . more . . .

Jol reveals Tottenham bid for Downing (Aug 26, 2006)

Tottenham manager Martin Jol revealed he has made a bid for Middlesbrough winger Stewart Downing. . . . more . . .

Bent hits a straight brace to down Bolton (Aug 26, 2006)

Charlton striker Darren Bent revived the London club's early season ambitions by scoring a second-half brace in a drama-filled 2-0 win over Bolton. . . . more . . .

Woodgate looking for England loan deal (Aug 26, 2006)

Real Madrid defender Jonathan Woodgate revealed that he plans to spend the season on loan in England. . . . more . . .

Liverpool's Daniel Agger celebrates scoring against West Ham United

Liverpool nail Hammers as Kop turns 100 (Aug 26, 2006)

Liverpool failed to celebrate the centenary of their legendary Kop stand with any great style but they beat West Ham 2-1 at Anfield through goals at the Kop end from Daniel Agger and Peter Crouch. . . . more . . .

Reggina lose match-fixing appeal (Aug 26, 2006)

Serie A outfit Reggina have lost their appeal against a 15-point penalty imposed for their role in the Italian match-fixing scandal before the Federal Court of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC). . . . more . . .

Bayern close to signing van Bommel (Aug 26, 2006)

German champions Bayern Munich are on the brink of signing Dutch international midfielder Marc van Bommel, Bayern general manager Uli Hoeness said. . . . more . . .

Ronaldo wants to stay at Real Madrid (Aug 26, 2006)

Brazilian striker Ronaldo wants to stay put at Real Madrid, saying he is capable of scoring 30 goals for the Spanish giants this season. . . . more . . .

Ferdinand injury rules out England duty (Aug 26, 2006)

Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand looks certain to be ruled out of England's Euro 2008 qualifiers against Andorra and Macedonia after suffering a suspected broken toe. . . . more . . .

Makelele insists Chelsea can overcome 'joke' Boro defeat (Aug 26, 2006)

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho knows that every away match has the potential to provide a slap in the face for his players following the midweek shock defeat at Middlesbrough. . . . more . . .

Manchester United's Wes Brown (Top) is tackled by Gavin Mahon (Bottom) of Watford

Watford stung by clinical Man Utd (Aug 26, 2006)

Manchester United maintained their perfect start to the season after beating Watford 2-1 at Vicarage Road with goals from Mikael Silvestre and Ryan Giggs. . . . more . . .

Johnson inspires 10-man Everton to victory (Aug 26, 2006)

Andrew Johnson capped a week to remember by inspiring 10-man Everton to a 2-0 win against Tottenham at White Hart Lane. . . . more . . .

Vennegoor of Hesselink seals Celtic win on debut (Aug 26, 2006)

Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink made the perfect start to his Celtic career by scoring the winning goal in a come-from-behind 2-1 victory at home to Hibernian in the Scottish Premier League. . . . more . . .

Bullard blunts Blades as Fulham find their feet (Aug 26, 2006)

Jimmy Bullard scored the only goal at Craven Cottage to hand Fulham their first win of the season and compound Sheffield United's hard start to life back in the English Premiership. . . . more . . .

Barton keeps cool to sink Arsenal (Aug 26, 2006)

A Joey Barton penalty brought Manchester City some welcome relief at the end of a difficult week as Stuart Pearce's side stunned Arsenal 1-0 at Eastlands. . . . more . . .

Lyon click into gear in Nice (Aug 26, 2006)

Five-in-a-row champions Lyon returned to the top of the table with a 4-1 win away at Nice. . . . more . . .

Heskey strikes to dethrone Royals (Aug 26, 2006)

Wigan earned their first win of the season with a hard-fought 1-0 against Reading at the JJB Stadium. . . . more . . .

Sweet homecoming for goal king Morientes (Aug 26, 2006)

Fernando Morientes consigned his ill-fated move to Liverpool to the history books when he made a goal-scoring return to the Spanish League in Valencia's 2-1 win against Real Betis. . . . more . . .

Luis Figo(L) clashes with Cristian Chivu

Figo seals incredible Inter Super Cup comeback (Aug 26, 2006)

Inter Milan came back from 3-0 down to clinch the Italian Super Cup in extra-time with a 4-3 win over Roma. . . . more . . .

Gerrard eyes England half-century (Aug 25, 2006)

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard is set to rack up 50 caps after being selected as part of manager Steve McClaren's 24-man squad for the forthcoming Euro 2008 qualifiers. . . . more . . .

AC Milan bid for Betis striker Oliveira (Aug 25, 2006)

AC Milan have made a 10 million euro (12.7 million dollar) bid for Real Betis striker Ricardo Oliveira. . . . more . . .

Date fixed for Juve's civil court appeal (Aug 25, 2006)

Juventus, who are appealing to a civil court to be reinstated in Serie A after being demoted to the second division with a 17-point penalty for match-fixing, will have their case heard on September 1. . . . more . . .

Woodgate and Gravesen approach Real exit (Aug 25, 2006)

Real Madrid are ready to offload England defender Jonathan Woodgate and Danish midfielder Thomas Gravesen. . . . more . . .

English giants face tricky UEFA Cup ties, Derry line up PSG (Aug 25, 2006)

English giants Newcastle and Blackburn face tricky ties in the first round of the UEFA Cup, the draw for which was made here. . . . more . . .

Walcott finally making his mark for Arsenal (Aug 25, 2006)

Unfairly scapegoated due to his bystander role in England's disappointing World Cup campaign, Theo Walcott has shown during the opening games of Arsenal's season just why Sven-Goran Eriksson gambled on the previously untried teenager. . . . more . . .

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