Archive soccer news from around the world
Beckham eyes role in Greece friendly (Jul 31, 2006)
David Beckham hopes he will overcome his injury problems in time for Steve McClaren's first game as England boss, a friendly against Greece on August 16. . . . more . . .
Hasselbaink faces FA charge over Chelsea slur (Jul 31, 2006)
Dutch striker Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink faces an FA charge over claims he made about former club Chelsea in his autobiography. . . . more . . .
Pompey still keen on Campbell (Jul 31, 2006)
Portsmouth manager Harry Redknapp has met with Sol Campbell in a renewed bid to bring the former Arsenal defender to Fratton Park. . . . more . . .
UEFA clamps down on racism, 'diving' (Jul 31, 2006)
UEFA has announced a range of tougher sanctions for European football, including a five match ban for racist or insulting conduct and a two match ban for players who simulate being fouled. . . . more . . .
King hit by new injury blow (Jul 31, 2006)
English Premiership side Spurs suffered a blow when it was revealed highly-rated England international centreback Ledley King would be out of action for six weeks after undergoing a knee operation. . . . more . . .
Birmingham set to look a little Jaidi-d (Jul 31, 2006)
Relegated Premiership side Birmingham strengthened their defence by buying experienced Tunisian international defender Radhi Jaidi from Bolton Wanderers. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo delighted with first training session after knee operation (Jul 31, 2006)
Brazil's World Cup finals goalscoring record holder Ronaldo came through his first training session since undergoing an operation on his left tibia and declared himself delighted at how he felt. . . . more . . .
Carrick passes medical and handed Keane's shirt (Jul 31, 2006)
England midfielder Michael Carrick completed his 18.6million pounds transfer from Spurs to Premiership rivals Manchester United on Monday after passing his medical. . . . more . . .
Real could yet bag Arsenal's Cole: Spanish media (Jul 30, 2006)
Arsenal's England defender Ashley Cole could yet move to Real Madrid despite the Gunners admitting to talks with Chelsea over the 25-year-old, Marca sports daily reported. . . . more . . .
New injury hell for Deportivo star Valeron (Jul 30, 2006)
Deportivo La Coruna's Spanish international playmaker Juan Carlos Valeron faces a four-month injury lay-off after suffering a knee injury during a pre-season friendly, the club has said. . . . more . . .
Sven blundered over Defoe: Lampard (Jul 30, 2006)
England midfielder Frank Lampard believes former coach Sven-Goran Eriksson has blundered when he left Jermain Defoe at home instead of taking the Spurs man to the World Cup. . . . more . . .
Troubled Marcelinho signs with Trabzonspor (Jul 30, 2006)
Controversial Brazilian midfielder Marcelinho, notorious for his lack of discipline has signed a three-year contract with Turkish first division side Trabzonspor. . . . more . . .
Spurs suffer King injury blow (Jul 30, 2006)
Tottenham skipper Ledley King could be ruled out for eight weeks because of a knee injury, the London has club announced. . . . more . . .
Lyon edge out PSG on penalties (Jul 30, 2006)
Champions Lyon snatched a dramatic penalty shoot-out victory over cup-winners Paris St Germain at the Stade Gerland to claim the French Champions Trophy. . . . more . . .
Zurawski double boosts Celtic as Czech mates fire Hearts (Jul 29, 2006)
Poland striker Maciej Zurawski bagged a double as Celtic began the defence of their Scottish Premier League title by beating Kilmarnock 4-1. . . . more . . .
Zaragoza pin hopes on Argentine Aimar (Jul 29, 2006)
Argentine international Pablo Aimar will move to Real Zaragoza in a four-year transfer deal after the Spanish first division side wrapped up negotiations with Valencia. . . . more . . .
Fortune thanks lucky stars for Bolton (Jul 29, 2006)
South Africa international Quinton Fortune believes he can make a success of his new career with Bolton Wanderers and prove Manchester United they were wrong to let him go. . . . more . . .
Troubled Marcelinho set to join Trabzonspor (Jul 29, 2006)
Controversial Brazilian midfielder Marcelinho, who was forced to issue an apology to Hertha Berlin after returning from vacation 10 days late, will be off-loaded to Turkish side Trabzonspor. . . . more . . .
Ribery no-show a misunderstanding: agent (Jul 29, 2006)
France winger Franck Ribery's agent quashed fears that his client had walked out on Marseille after the player failed to turn up for a pre-season friendly. . . . more . . .
Football provides therapy for drug addicts in cricket-crazy India (Jul 29, 2006)
A frail-looking man named Diosiam jogs on to a football field in an upmarket New Delhi suburb, followed by a band of keen-looking players -- all of them ex-drug addicts or living with HIV/AIDS. . . . more . . .
Parreira installed as South Africa coach for 2010: SAFA chief (Jul 29, 2006)
Former Brazil coach Carlos Alberto Parreira has agreed a deal to take charge of South Africa as the 2010 World Cup hosts begin their long build-up to the finals, officials said. . . . more . . .
Hamburg and Schalke make League Cup semis (Jul 29, 2006)
Hamburg qualified for the German League Cup semi-finals after a 1-0 win over Hertha Berlin. . . . more . . .
McCarthy celebrates dream Rovers move (Jul 29, 2006)
South African striker Benni McCarthy, who has completed a 2.5-million-pound move to Blackburn Rovers, said it was always his dream to play in the English Premiership. . . . more . . .
Roberto Carlos mulling Turkey move (Jul 29, 2006)
Real Madrid fullback Roberto Carlos is poised to sign for Turkish club Fenerbahce on a three-year deal. . . . more . . .
Chelsea in talks for Arsenal star Cole (Jul 28, 2006)
Arsenal have held talks with Chelsea over the potential sale of defender Ashley Cole to the English champions, according to the Gunners' vice-chairman David Dein. . . . more . . .
Strachan faces up to life without Hartson (Jul 28, 2006)
Celtic manager Gordon Strachan has admitted his side will kick-off their defence of the Scottish Premier League title without a replacement for talismanic striker John Hartson. . . . more . . .
Man United agree fee for Carrick (Jul 28, 2006)
England midfielder Michael Carrick is on the verge of moving to Manchester United from Tottenham after the clubs agreed a fee, the Old Trafford giants said. . . . more . . .
Man Utd agree Carrick deal at last (Jul 28, 2006)
Manchester United have finally reached a deal to sign England midfielder Michael Carrick from Tottenham Hotspur, British newspapers reported. . . . more . . .
Van Nistelrooy completes dream move (Jul 28, 2006)
Dutch striker Ruud van Nistelrooy admitted he had fulfilled a dream by joining Real Madrid from Manchester United. . . . more . . .
AC Milan set to face Red Star or Cork (Jul 28, 2006)
AC Milan now know who they will face if they are allowed to enter this year's Champions League after they were paired with Red Star Belgrade or Cork City in the draw for the third qualifying round. . . . more . . .
McCarthy signs for Rovers (Jul 28, 2006)
South African striker Benni McCarthy has signed for Blackburn Rovers on a four-year contract from Porto. . . . more . . .
Ferguson could be out for five matches (Jul 28, 2006)
Rangers captain Barry Ferguson could be out for the opening five games of the Scotland Premier League season, it was revealed. . . . more . . .
Van Nistelrooy passes Real medical (Jul 28, 2006)
Dutch striker Ruud van Nistelrooy has passed a medical with Real Madrid as he prepared to join the Spanish club from Manchester United. . . . more . . .
We can't go to Israel says Liverpool boss Benitez (Jul 28, 2006)
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has insisted that his side should not have to play their Champions League qualifier against Maccabi Haifa in war-torn Israel. . . . more . . .
New consortium enters Villa takeover race (Jul 28, 2006)
A new consortium has entered the race to buy English Premiership club Aston Villa. . . . more . . .
Hearts sign Chile's Pinilla (Jul 28, 2006)
Scottish Premier League club Hearts has signed Chile striker Mauricio Pinilla on a season's loan from Sporting Lisbon. . . . more . . .
Shevchenko targets Champions League (Jul 28, 2006)
Chelsea striker Andriy Shevchenko has admitted his main target this season is to bring the Champions League to Stamford Bridge. . . . more . . .
Thompson signs for Portsmouth (Jul 28, 2006)
Former Liverpool and Blackburn midfielder David Thompson has signed a one-year contract with Portsmouth. . . . more . . .
LuaLua agrees new Portsmouth contract (Jul 28, 2006)
Democratic Republic of Congo captain Lomana LuaLua signed a new three-year contract with English Premiership club Portsmouth. . . . more . . .
Carrick close to Man United move (Jul 28, 2006)
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson revealed he is close to signing England midfielder Michael Carrick from Tottenham. . . . more . . .
Liverpool and AC Milan face nervous wait after Champions League draw (Jul 28, 2006)
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has insisted that his side should not have to play their Champions League qualifier against Maccabi Haifa in war-torn Israel. . . . more . . .
Broke Chilean club headhunts Zidane (Jul 28, 2006)
Zinedine Zidane has gone from headbutter to headhunted with a Chilean team believing he is the man to knock over their mountain of debt. . . . more . . .
UEFA postpones AC Milan decision (Jul 27, 2006)
UEFA has said Thursday it would decide by August 2 whether to allow scandal-hit AC Milan to take part in European competitions for the 2005/06 season. . . . more . . .
Mexico's Fonseca joins Benfica for four years (Jul 27, 2006)
Mexican international striker Francisco Fonseca has joined Benfica from Cruz Azul for four years, the Portuguese club said. . . . more . . .
Van Nistelrooy signs for Real Madrid (Jul 27, 2006)
Dutch striker Ruud Van Nistelrooy put an end to the long-running saga over his future when he signed a three-year deal with Real Madrid, the Spanish club's official website reported. . . . more . . .
Queudrue makes Fulham switch (Jul 27, 2006)
French defender Franck Queudrue joined Fulham from English Premiership rivals Middlesbrough on a four-year contract. . . . more . . .
Zidane's headbutt spawns chart-topping hit (Jul 27, 2006)
A song called "Headbutt" written the day after the World Cup final is set to become the smash hit of the summer in France less than three weeks after its release. . . . more . . .
US forward McBride retires from international football (Jul 27, 2006)
Brian McBride, the only US footballer to score in more than one World Cup, announced his retirement from international football. . . . more . . .
Le Guen faces up to Rangers challenge (Jul 27, 2006)
It's an era that has been much hyped ever since Paul Le Guen's name was first linked with the Rangers manager's post in December 2005. . . . more . . .
Van Nistelrooy saga takes new twist (Jul 27, 2006)
Ruud Nistelrooy's expected transfer from Manchester United has taken a new twist with reports about how the negotiations are going contradicting each other. . . . more . . .
Loyal Nedved to stick by scandal-hit Juventus (Jul 27, 2006)
Czech international Pavel Nedved has pledged to stick by scandal-hit Italian giants Juventus, despite their relegation to Serie B for match-fixing. . . . more . . .
Quinn's consortium completes Sunderland takeover (Jul 27, 2006)
Former Republic of Ireland striker Niall Quinn confirmed his consortium had completed their takeover of English Championship club Sunderland. . . . more . . .
Disgraced Juventus to lodge appeal with CONI (Jul 27, 2006)
Juventus, who on Tuesday were stripped of the Serie A titles they won in 2005-06 and in 2004-05 and relegated to the second division with a 17-point penalty for match-fixing, are to lodge a further appeal against their punishment with the Italian Olympic Committee (CONI). . . . more . . .
O'Neill top choice for Villa (Jul 27, 2006)
Michael Neville has said Martin O'Neill was his top choice for new Aston Villa manager though he has other consortiums contending with him to take over the Premiership club. . . . more . . .
Kawasaki motor back to J-League lead (Jul 26, 2006)
Kawasaki Frontale has replaced Gamba Osaka at the top of the J-League with a 3-2 win over the defending champions. . . . more . . .
Real "final offer" for Ruud is 15 million: media (Jul 26, 2006)
Real Madrid's final offer for unsettled Manchester United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy is 15 million euros (20 million dollars), AS sports daily has reported even though German champions Bayern Munich are confident they can land him. . . . more . . .
Fan fury as Man Utd thump Celtic in pre-season friendly (Jul 26, 2006)
Celtic fans were left fuming after watching Gordon Strachan's side get torn apart 3-0 by an inexperienced Manchester United line-up in a pre-season friendly. . . . more . . .
Consortium makes Villa takeover bid (Jul 26, 2006)
English Premiership club Aston Villa have been the subject of a takeover bid estimated to be worth 64 million pounds (94 million euros). . . . more . . .
Barcelona board resigns following judicial ruling (Jul 26, 2006)
Barcelona's board of directors resigned following a judicial ruling that paves the way for new elections at the Catalan giants later this year, the club announced. . . . more . . .
No desperate situation says Ferguson (Jul 26, 2006)
Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has claimed there was no desperate situation at the club though they have yet to make a single purchase this season. . . . more . . .
Takeover battle at Villa hots up as consortium makes bid (Jul 26, 2006)
The prospect of a battle for control of Aston Villa emerged after the English Premiership club were the subject of a takeover offer worth 64 million pounds (118 million dollars) as two other suitors mulled bids. . . . more . . .
Real "final offer" for Ruud is 15 million (Jul 26, 2006)
Real Madrid's final offer for unsettled Manchester United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy is 15 million euros (20 million dollars), AS sports daily has reported even though German champions Bayern Munich are confident they can land him. . . . more . . .
Arca joins Middlesbrough (Jul 26, 2006)
Middlesbrough manager Gareth Southgate has completed the signing of Sunderland's Julio Arca for 1.75 million pounds. . . . more . . .
Kick AC Milan out of Champions League, says French club boss (Jul 26, 2006)
Lens chairman Gervais Martel has called on European football chiefs to stand firm and bar corruption-tainted AC Milan from taking part in next season's UEFA Champions League. . . . more . . .
Cole could be sold admits Wenger (Jul 26, 2006)
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has implied for the first time that England left back Ashley Cole could be sold this summer. . . . more . . .
O'Neill can guarantee Villa success: Izzet (Jul 26, 2006)
Martin O'Neill is the man to bring back the glory years to Aston Villa, according to former Turkey midfielder Muzzy Izzet. . . . more . . .
Hungary's Ferencvaros banned from first division (Jul 26, 2006)
Hungary's most illustrious football club, Ferencvaros has been banned from the country's first division championship for the first time in over a century, the Hungarian Football Federation (MLSZ) announced. . . . more . . .
Kaka staying at AC Milan (Jul 26, 2006)
AC Milan's exciting Brazilian midfielder Kaka has confirmed he will not be leaving the club despite strong interest from Spanish giants Real Madrid. . . . more . . .
Fortune joins Bolton (Jul 26, 2006)
Quinton Fortune looks set to join Premiership club Bolton and manager Sam Allardyce cannot wait to add the South African to his squad. . . . more . . .
AC Milan's European place not yet confirmed (Jul 26, 2006)
AC Milan's place in the Champions League preliminary rounds is not yet confirmed, despite their inclusion in the list of Italian clubs participating in UEFA competitions this coming season. . . . more . . .
Thuram's kids delighted with Barca move (Jul 26, 2006)
While France defender Liliam Thuram is overjoyed with his move from Juventus to Barcelona, it is his children who are most pleased, the 34-year-old said. . . . more . . .
Villa fan launches takeover bid as US billionaire withdraws (Jul 26, 2006)
A consortium led by a lifelong Aston Villa fan was in pole position to take over the English Premiership side after American billionaire Randy Lerner reportedly pulled out of the race. . . . more . . .
Hearts make winning debut in Champions League qualifiers (Jul 26, 2006)
Hearts got off to a dream start in their maiden quest for Champions League glory on a busy night of preliminary round qualifiers for Europe's premier club competition. . . . more . . .
Emerson completes Real switch (Jul 26, 2006)
Brazil midfielder Emerson was officially unveiled as a Real Madrid player. . . . more . . .
Inter Milan named Italian champions (Jul 26, 2006)
Inter Milan have been awarded last season's Serie A title despite finishing third behind Juventus and AC Milan, the Italian football federation(FIGC) announced. . . . more . . .
Takeover battle at Villa heats up as consortium makes bid (Jul 26, 2006)
The prospect of a battle for control of Aston Villa emerged after the English Premiership club were the subject of a takeover offer worth 64 million pounds (118 million dollars) as two other suitors mulled bids. . . . more . . .
Maradona taken to hospital for health exam (Jul 26, 2006)
Argentina legend Diego Maradona was admitted to a private hospital for several hours for a "complete examination", his personal doctor has said. . . . more . . .
Liverpool complete Pennant swoop (Jul 26, 2006)
Liverpool completed the signing of Birmingham winger Jermaine Pennant for a reported six million pounds (11.1million dollars). . . . more . . .
Nedved staying with relegated Juventus: agent (Jul 26, 2006)
Czech international Pavel Nedved has pledged his future to scandal-plagued Italian giants Juventus, vowing to stay with the club next season despite their relegation to Serie B. . . . more . . .
Marseille boss to hold clear the air talks with unsettled Ribery (Jul 26, 2006)
Marseille boss Pape Diouf vowed to hold clear-the-air talks with unsettled star Franck Ribery in order to secure the French international's future at the club. . . . more . . .
Wright tells Wright-Phillips to stay and fight (Jul 25, 2006)
Former England striker Ian Wright has urged his adoptive son Shaun Wright-Phillips to stay and fight for his place in the star-studded Chelsea team. . . . more . . .
Gerrard sets sights on Premiership title (Jul 25, 2006)
England midfielder Steven Gerrard wants to banish his World Cup blues by leading Liverpool to Premiership glory. . . . more . . .
Match-fixing Serie A clubs to hear appeal verdicts on Tuesday (Jul 25, 2006)
The four Serie A clubs found guilty of match-fixing will learn later whether their appeals for lighter sentences have proved successful. . . . more . . .
Bayern confident Van Nistelrooy heading their way (Jul 25, 2006)
German champions Bayern Munich are confident of capturing the signature of unsettled Manchester United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy within the next 10 days, a German press report said. . . . more . . .
Moyes row prompted Everton exit says Rooney (Jul 25, 2006)
England star Wayne Rooney has said it was a row with Everton manager David Moyes that preceded his move from Goodison Park to Manchester United. . . . more . . .
Polish football federation accused over World Cup ticket scam (Jul 25, 2006)
A Polish prosecutor has accused the country's football federation of being involved in a scam in which tickets to World Cup matches were sold on the black market. . . . more . . .
McCarthy closing in on move to Blackburn (Jul 25, 2006)
FC Porto striker Benni McCarthy is close to signing with English Premiership side Blackburn Rovers for three years, the South African international forward said in a newspaper interview. . . . more . . .
Quinn confirmed as new Sunderland manager (Jul 25, 2006)
Chairman-elect Niall Quinn has been confirmed as the new manager of relegated Premiership club Sunderland. . . . more . . .
Barton signs new City deal (Jul 25, 2006)
Manchester City midfielder Joey Barton has signed a new four-year contract at the Premiership club to end speculation he would be moving elsewhere. . . . more . . .
Catania take Japanese striker Morimoto on loan (Jul 25, 2006)
Newly-promoted Serie A side Catania have taken teenage Japanese striker Takayuki Morimoto on a season-long loan from J-League second division club Tokyo Verdy. . . . more . . .
Bilic named new Croatia coach (Jul 25, 2006)
Former Croatian international Slaven Bilic has been named Croatia's new coach, replacing Zlatko Kranjcar who was sacked after the national team failed to make the second round of the World Cup, the country's football association has said. . . . more . . .
Ferguson and Burke out of Rangers' opener (Jul 25, 2006)
Barry Ferguson and Chris Burke will be missing from Rangers' opening league match of the season at Motherwell on Sunday, manager Paul Le Guen confirmed. . . . more . . .
Cannavaro the Real deal for two years (Jul 25, 2006)
Italy captain Fabio Cannavaro has been officially unveiled as a Real Madrid player. . . . more . . .
Torres staying at Atletico (Jul 25, 2006)
Atletico Madrid striker Fernando Torres, reportedly wanted by Manchester United and Inter Milan, has said he had no intention of leaving the club. . . . more . . .
Real deal Cannavaro targets Champions League (Jul 25, 2006)
Italy captain Fabio Cannavaro has been officially unveiled as a Real Madrid player and vowed to lift the Champions League with his new team. . . . more . . .
Italian federation given one-day extension to UEFA deadline (Jul 25, 2006)
The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has been given an extra day to confirm the list of clubs who will take part in European competitions next season, UEFA has said. . . . more . . .
Match-fixing clubs to hear appeal verdicts on Tuesday evening (Jul 25, 2006)
The four Italian Serie A clubs found guilty of match-fixing will be told whether their appeals for lighter sentences have proved successful at around 1830GMT on July 25. . . . more . . .
Liverpool and Birmingham in stalemate over Pennant (Jul 25, 2006)
Liverpool have had a 3.5 million pounds (6.4 million dollars) bid for Birmingham midfielder Jermain Pennant turned down. . . . more . . .
Fiorentina and Lazio reinstated in Serie A, Juve relegation confirmed (Jul 25, 2006)
The four Italian clubs found guilty of match-fixing in the 2004-05 Serie A season received lighter sentences after their appeals proved successful at a tribunal. . . . more . . .
Alonso dismisses Real transfer talk, Diao eyes Charlton move (Jul 24, 2006)
Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso has shrugged off speculation of a transfer to Real Madrid, insisting he has no plans to leave Anfield. . . . more . . .
Trezeguet transfer talk too soon: Lyon chief (Jul 24, 2006)
Lyon chief Jean-Michel Aulas played down speculation of a possible transfer swoop for Juventus' French international striker David Trezeguet. . . . more . . .
Maradona rules out Boca coaching job (Jul 24, 2006)
Argentine legend Diego Maradona ruled himself out of the coaching job at his beloved former club Boca Juniors, saying he did not have enough experience. . . . more . . .
No bargain for desperate Crespo (Jul 24, 2006)
Chelsea insisted they will not sell wantaway Argentina striker Hernan Crespo on the cheap, depite the player's desperation to return to Italy. . . . more . . .
Roeder vows to build on Duff signing (Jul 24, 2006)
Newcastle manager Glenn Roeder has vowed to keep splashing the cash after unveiling his first close-season signing in Irish winger Damien Duff. . . . more . . .
Dunga named new Brazil coach (Jul 24, 2006)
Former Brazil captain Dunga was appointed as the five-time World Cup winners' new coach, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) said. . . . more . . .
Yorke unsure of future with Australian champions Sydney (Jul 24, 2006)
Dwight Yorke said he was unsure of his playing future beyond his second and final season with Australian A-League football champions Sydney FC. . . . more . . .
Ruud trains with United (Jul 24, 2006)
Ruud van Nistelrooy, who has been linked with both Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, has returned to training with Manchester United but doubts still remain over whether he will be at Old Trafford for the start of the season. . . . more . . .
Czech players plead innocence in Turkish match-fixing probe (Jul 24, 2006)
Jiri Homola, Jiri Masek and Zdenek Senkerik, three players involved in a Turkish football federation (TFF) match-fixing investigation, have pleaded their innocence to the Czech press. . . . more . . .
Ruud trains with United, Bayern still hopeful (Jul 24, 2006)
Ruud van Nistelrooy, who has been linked with both Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, has returned to training with Manchester United but doubts still remain over whether he will be at Old Trafford for the start of the season. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo in swap deal with Adriano: report (Jul 24, 2006)
Real Madrid's Ronaldo could return to Inter Milan in a swap deal for fellow Brazilian striker Adriano, sports daily As reported. . . . more . . .
Casiraghi named as Italy under-21 coach (Jul 24, 2006)
Pierluigi Casiraghi has been named as the new coach of Italy's under-21 team. . . . more . . .
Italian football legend Maldini new H and M model (Jul 24, 2006)
Italian football legend Paolo Maldini has been named as the latest of a string of celebrities to model for Swedish low-cost fashion retailer Hennes and Mauritz (H and M). . . . more . . .
Thieves steal football memorabilia belonging to England striker Rooney (Jul 24, 2006)
Thieves have stolen football memorabilia belonging to star Manchester United and England striker Wayne Rooney, police said. . . . more . . .
French federation submits Platini's UEFA presidency bid (Jul 24, 2006)
The French football federation (FFF) officially submitted France legend Michel Platini as a candidate for the UEFA presidency. . . . more . . .
Nedved to decide on Juve future by week's end: agent (Jul 24, 2006)
Czech international Pavel Nedved will decide whether or not to stay with scandal-plagued Italian giants Juventus by the end of this week, the player's agent said. . . . more . . .
Croatia's Prso retires from international football (Jul 24, 2006)
Croatia and Glasgow Rangers striker Dado Prso has decided to retire from international football because of persistent knee problems, local papers have reported. . . . more . . .
Campbell aiming for foreign move (Jul 23, 2006)
England defender Sol Campbell is aiming to continue his career overseas after quitting north London giants Arsenal. . . . more . . .
Celtic chairman slams Petrov request (Jul 23, 2006)
Celtic chairman Brian Quinn has insisted Stilian Petrov's desire to leave the Glasgow giants is "bizarre." . . . more . . .
Bayern up Ruud offer (Jul 23, 2006)
Bayern Munich have upped their offer for Manchester United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy, according to the German club's general manager Uli Hoeness. . . . more . . .
Hearts seek place at Europe's top table (Jul 23, 2006)
The only certainty at Hearts last season was that there would be further uncertainty surrounding the club with every passing day. . . . more . . .
Materazzi's clear conscience (Jul 23, 2006)
Marco Materazzi, suspended for provoking Zinedine Zidane's headbutt in the World Cup final, has said he is a little bitter but has a clear conscience in his first comments's since FIFA's ban. . . . more . . .
Ruud's Bayern negotiations (Jul 23, 2006)
Bayern Munich general director Karl-Heinz Rummenigge said he was already negotiating terms with Dutch striker Ruud van Nistelrooy but said it would be Manchester United who would make the final decision. . . . more . . .
Zenden says midfield battle can take Reds to title (Jul 23, 2006)
Bolo Zenden says competition for midfield places can propel Liverpool to the Premiership title. . . . more . . .
Appeals begin in Italian scandal (Jul 22, 2006)
The appeals in Italian football's match-fixing scandal began in a Rome hotel, Italian media reported. . . . more . . .
Bergkamp overcome by Arsenal farewell (Jul 22, 2006)
Dennis Bergkamp made no attempt to hide his emotions after his final appearance for Arsenal in a testimonial match at the club's new 390 million pounds (725 million US dollars) Emirates Stadium. . . . more . . .
Ferguson claims tour success despite losing to Kaizer Chiefs (Jul 22, 2006)
Manchester United's South African tour was an investment in the club's future despite losing the Vodacom Cup final in a penalty shootout against Kaizer Chiefs, Sir Alex Ferguson said. . . . more . . .
Duff completes Newcastle move (Jul 22, 2006)
Damien Duff completed his move from English champions Chelsea to Premiership rivals Newcastle United. . . . more . . .
Kalou eager to face 'idol' Henry (Jul 22, 2006)
Salomon Kalou cannot wait to come up against football hero Thierry Henry when the new Premiership season gets underway. . . . more . . .
Iran's Daei gets the boot (Jul 22, 2006)
Veteran Iranian captain Ali Daei has been given the boot from the national squad, Iran's new coach said as he made the first change to the team following its lacklustre World Cup performance. . . . more . . .
Pfister to sign fresh contract with Togo (Jul 22, 2006)
German Otto Pfister will sign a new contract with the Togo football federation to coach the national team until 2008, the SID news agency reported. . . . more . . .
Paredes returns to Portugal with Sporting (Jul 22, 2006)
Paraguayan international midfielder Carlos Paredes flew into Lisbon to sign a three-year contract with Portuguese first division side Sporting Lisbon. . . . more . . .
Defending champions back on top of J-League (Jul 22, 2006)
Defending champions Gamba Osaka shot to the top of Japan's J-League with a 5-1 hammering of Nagoya Grampus Eight, overtaking Kawasaki Frontale who lost for the first time in 11 matches. . . . more . . .
Hertha Berlin consider offer for erratic Marcelinho (Jul 21, 2006)
German first division's Hertha Berlin have received a formal transfer bid for their erratic Brazilian international Marcelinho. . . . more . . .
Osim signs as new Japan coach (Jul 21, 2006)
Former Yugoslav coach Ivica Osim has signed a contract to become Japan's new national coach as the Asian champions seek to rebuild after their early exit from the World Cup. . . . more . . .
Bergkamp backs Arsenal to push Chelsea (Jul 21, 2006)
Dennis Bergkamp believes this coming season will see Arsenal push London rivals and reigning champions Chelsea all the way for the Premiership title. . . . more . . .
Osim signs to become new Japan coach (Jul 21, 2006)
Former Yugoslav coach Ivica Osim has signed a contract to become Japan's new national coach as the Asian champions seek to rebuild after their early exit from the World Cup. . . . more . . .
Italy's press slams Materazzi ban (Jul 21, 2006)
FIFA's decision to hand Marco Materazzi a two-match suspension for insulting Zinedine Zidane in the World Cup final has drawn fierce criticism from the Italian press. . . . more . . .
Bellamy faces Euro tie court clash (Jul 21, 2006)
Wales striker Craig Bellamy may miss his country's Euro 2008 qualifier against Cyprus in October because the match clashes with his trial on assault charges. . . . more . . .
Real still want Kaka and Van Nistelrooy (Jul 21, 2006)
Real Madrid are still negotiating bids for AC Milan's Brazilian midfielder Kaka and Dutch striker Ruud van Nistelrooy, out of favour at Manchester United. . . . more . . .
Argentine La Paglia joins Vitoria Setubal (Jul 21, 2006)
Portuguese club Vitoria Setubal have signed Argentine midfielder Cesar la Paglia from Tenerife. . . . more . . .
Vieira set for Inter move (Jul 21, 2006)
French midfielder Patrick Vieira will join Inter Milan from Juventus for about 13 million euros. . . . more . . .
Stars bid arrivederci to sinking ship Juventus (Jul 21, 2006)
The funereal air hanging over disgraced Italian super club Juventus deepens with each day and each new headline about the latest star to abandon the sinking ship. . . . more . . .
Chelsea's Duff poised for Newcastle move (Jul 21, 2006)
Damien Duff is to join Newcastle United from reigning English Premiership champions Chelsea, subject to a medical, the north-east club announced. . . . more . . .
Veteran Yorke could keep playing (Jul 21, 2006)
Former Manchester United striker Dwight Yorke could continue playing at international level after enjoying his first World Cup experience with Trinidad and Tobago. . . . more . . .
Arnold to coach Australia in Asian Cup qualifiers (Jul 21, 2006)
Graham Arnold has been announced as interim national coach for Australia's two Asian Cup qualifying matches next month. . . . more . . .
Thuram and Zambrotta join Barcelona (Jul 21, 2006)
Defenders Lilian Thuram and Gianluca Zambrotta joined Spanish champions Barcelona on a two-year and four-year contract respectively from Juventus. . . . more . . .
Chelsea accept Valencia offer for Del Horno (Jul 21, 2006)
English Premiership champions Chelsea have agreed a deal to sell Spanish defender Asier Del Horno to Valencia. . . . more . . .
Ferguson backs South Africa to stage successful World Cup (Jul 21, 2006)
Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson claims South Africa will stage a successful World Cup in 2010, despite growing fears over the ability of the country to host the tournament. . . . more . . .
Bergkamp warns Chelsea not to expect easy ride (Jul 21, 2006)
Arsenal legend Dennis Bergkamp has warned English Premiership champions Chelsea they won't find it so easy to retain their title this season. . . . more . . .
Hamburg snub Kluivert deal (Jul 21, 2006)
German club Hamburg have snubbed a move for Patrick Kluivert because of the Dutch striker's suspect fitness. . . . more . . .
Strachan restores Celtic's Scottish core (Jul 21, 2006)
As a Scotland player Gordon Strachan was as patriotic as they come. . . . more . . .
Boateng handed Middlesbrough captaincy (Jul 21, 2006)
Middlesbrough manager Gareth Southgate has chosen Dutch midfielder George Boateng as his successor as club captain. . . . more . . .
Wolves appoint McCarthy (Jul 21, 2006)
Former Republic of Ireland manager Mick McCarthy has been appointed manager of English Championship club Wolves. . . . more . . .
Norwegian striker hopes to boost J-League strugglers (Jul 21, 2006)
Former Norway striker Frode Johnsen is hoping his goals would lift J-League strugglers Nagoya Grampus Eight. . . . more . . .
Mourinho won't capitalise on Juve misery (Jul 21, 2006)
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has insisted that he will not be plundering disgraced Italian champions Juventus for players in a bid to strengthen his squad. . . . more . . .
FIFA defends Materazzi ban (Jul 21, 2006)
FIFA have defended their decision to ban Italy defender Marco Materazzi for insulting Zinedine Zidane in the World Cup final. . . . more . . .
Chelsea to trim squad (Jul 21, 2006)
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has decided to trim his squad to keep players happy as many want to leave because they are not playing enough for the first team. . . . more . . .
Lama vows to turn round Kenyan football (Jul 21, 2006)
Former France goalkeeper Bernard Lama has vowed to inject professionalism into Kenyan football in his new role as the national team's coach. . . . more . . .
Sleeping in a laughing matter as German team gets serious (Jul 20, 2006)
Sleeping in has become a laughing matter at German first division side Wolfsburg since narrowly escaping relegation last season, says the team's coach. . . . more . . .
Aston Villa confirm takeover approaches amid O'Leary exit (Jul 20, 2006)
Struggling English Premiership side Aston Villa, reeling from the departure of manager David O'Leary, said it received takeover approaches from "various parties", both from Britain and overseas. . . . more . . .
Reggina president named by prosecutors (Jul 20, 2006)
Reggina president Lillo Foti has been named by Naples prosecutors in connection with the match-fixing scandal engulfing Italian football. . . . more . . .
Argentina's World Cup keeper ready for Spanish challenge (Jul 20, 2006)
Argentina's World Cup goalkeeper Roberto Abbondanzieri said he was looking forward to his new challenge in the Spanish first division with Getafe after joining from Boca Juniors in a 1.5-million-euro deal. . . . more . . .
Scholes puts Premiership success at top of United agenda (Jul 20, 2006)
Paul Scholes insists Manchester United must mount a serious challenge for the Premiership title this season after admitting that the club have waited too long to secure domestic dominance. . . . more . . .</