Archive soccer news from around the world
Ferguson sympathises with McLeish move (Dec 31, 2007)
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson says he understands why Alex McLeish left his post as Scotland boss to take charge of English Premier League strugglers Birmingham City. . . . more . . .
Heskey set for Wigan return (Dec 31, 2007)
Wigan's England striker Emile Heskey looks set to make his comeback at Liverpool on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Donovan leads young US lineup preparing to play Sweden (Dec 31, 2007)
Landon Donovan, one goal shy of becoming the all-time United States scoring leader, leads a young group of 26 players that will begin training camp Thursday ahead of a January 19 friendly with Sweden. . . . more . . .
Gillot appointed Sochaux coach (Dec 31, 2007)
Francis Gillot has been appointed coach of French first division strugglers Sochaux, the club announced on Monday. . . . more . . .
Hodgson undaunted by his Premier past (Dec 31, 2007)
Roy Hodgson, the new manager of Fulham, insisted Monday he had nothing to prove in English football after spending the bulk of his coaching career abroad. . . . more . . .
Old Firm postpone clash in memory of O'Donnell (Dec 31, 2007)
Wednesday's Old Firm clash between Celtic and Rangers has been postponed as a mark of respect following the death last weekend of Motherwell captain Phil O'Donnell, the Scottish Premier League (SPL) announced here on Monday. . . . more . . .
Allardyce job not up for grabs, insists Magpies boss (Dec 31, 2007)
Newcastle chairman Chris Mort on Monday insisted that under-pressure manager Sam Allardyce's job was not up for grabs. . . . more . . .
Rui Costa to quit at season's end (Dec 31, 2007)
Benfica's former Portuguese international Rui Costa revealed Monday that he will retire at the end of the season. . . . more . . .
Barton let me down, says Allardyce (Dec 31, 2007)
Under-fire Newcastle manager Sam Allardyce on Monday blasted controversial midfielder Joey Barton for letting him down. . . . more . . .
Ambitious Berbatov looking to move (Dec 31, 2007)
Bulgarian striker Dimitar Berbatov wants to leave Tottenham if a suitable offer comes in during the January transfer window, his agent said Monday. . . . more . . .
Gillot set to guide struggling Sochaux (Dec 30, 2007)
Francis Gillot looks set to become the new coach of French first division strugglers FC Sochaux after the club announced on Sunday they were in advanced negotiations with the former Lens boss. . . . more . . .
Hart wonder save denies Liverpool victory (Dec 30, 2007)
Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart produced an 86th minute wonder save to deny Dirk Kuyt a late winner for Liverpool as the two challengers for Champions League qualification fought out a tense 0-0 draw at Eastlands here on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Derby undone by Rovers' revival (Dec 30, 2007)
Derby County remained eight points adrift at the foot of the Premier League table after a 2-1 home defeat against Blackburn Rovers at Pride Park here on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Arsenal have 'massive chance' to take title, says Man Utd's Ferguson (Dec 30, 2007)
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson believes Arsenal now have a "massive chance" to take the Old Trafford club's Premier League title as it is the Londoners, and not his side, who will start the New Year as league leaders. . . . more . . .
Barcelona's Jorquera sidelined through injury (Dec 30, 2007)
Barcelona goalkeeper Albert Jorquera will be sidelined for several months after picking up a knee injury during a friendly on Saturday night. . . . more . . .
Man Utd's Ferguson warns players over discipline (Dec 30, 2007)
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has warned that he will not hesitate to sell any player who breaches club discipline. . . . more . . .
Saudi striker Al Qahtani turns down City move (Dec 30, 2007)
Asian Player of the Year Yasser Al Qahtani revealed he has turned down an offer to join English Premier League club Manchester City. . . . more . . .
Agger set for Liverpool recall in clash with Manchester City (Dec 30, 2007)
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez is set to recall Daniel Agger if Sami Hyypia fails to recover in time to feature at Manchester City on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Allardyce robbed by "horrible decision" (Dec 30, 2007)
Sam Allardyce admitted he felt robbed by Salomon Kalou's controversial late winner as Chelsea piled more pressure on the beleaguered Newcastle manager. . . . more . . .
No complaints from Fergie as United stumble (Dec 30, 2007)
Sir Alex Ferguson offered no excuses after seeing Manchester United slip to a dramatic 2-1 defeat at West Ham. . . . more . . .
Wenger salutes Arsenal spirit as Gunners go top (Dec 30, 2007)
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger praised his players' character after they returned to the top of the Premier League table following a 4-1 victory over Everton here at Goodison Park. . . . more . . .
Scottish football mourns Motherwell's O'Donnell (Dec 30, 2007)
Motherwell captain Phil O'Donnell died on Saturday after collapsing during a match against Dundee United. . . . more . . .
Arsenal on top after fiery win over Everton (Dec 29, 2007)
Arsenal will start 2008 as leaders of the Premier League after coming from behind to beat Everton 4-1 in a controversial encounter at Goodison Park on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Motherwell mourn dead O'Donnell (Dec 29, 2007)
Motherwell captain Phil O'Donnell's death, after collapsing during his side's win over Dundee United, ensured Scottish football ended 2007 in a state of profound shock. . . . more . . .
Boro say Tuncay very much as they beat Pompey (Dec 29, 2007)
Tuncay Sanli's goal was good enough to give Middlesbrough a 1-0 win away to Portsmouth as the home side failed to score at Fratton Park for the sixth straight Premier League match. . . . more . . .
Kalou adds to Newcastle's woes (Dec 29, 2007)
Salomon Kalou's goal three minutes from time saw Chelsea beat Newcastle United 2-1 at Stamford Bridge here on Saturday as they moved to within four points of Premier League leaders Manchester United. . . . more . . .
Hammers revival shocks United (Dec 29, 2007)
Matthew Upson gave Manchester United an early new year's hangover as his goal handed West Ham a dramatic 2-1 win on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Villa fightback stuns Wigan (Dec 29, 2007)
Gabriel Agbonlahor's second half strike capped a stirring Aston Villa fightback as Martin O'Neill's side won 2-1 against Wigan on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Sunderland boost Premiership survival hopes (Dec 29, 2007)
Sunderland beat Bolton 3-1 here on Saturday to boost their survival campaign with goals from Kieran Richardson, Kenwyne Jones and Daryl Murphy. . . . more . . .
Cottagers slip further down after Blues draw (Dec 29, 2007)
Caretaker manager Ray Lewington ended his spell at the helm of struggling Fulham with a 1-1 draw at Birmingham on Saturday which has buried the Cottagers further in the drop zone. . . . more . . .
Injuries add to Derby's problems (Dec 29, 2007)
As if being seven points adrift at the bottom of the table wasn't bad enough, Derby County are set to be without eight first-choice players when they face Blackburn Rovers in the Premier League at Pride Park on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Berbatov scores four as Spurs edge Reading in 10 goal thriller (Dec 29, 2007)
Four goals by Bulgarian international Dimitar Berbatov inspired Spurs to an astonishing 6-4 victory over Reading in their Premiership clash here on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Ballardini ends Cagliari coaching musical chairs (Dec 29, 2007)
Serie A tailenders Cagliari ended their farcical search for a coach on Saturday by appointing Davide Ballardini. . . . more . . .
Old Firm swap places at top of Scottish tree (Dec 29, 2007)
Celtic returned to the top of the Scottish Premier League with a 3-0 win at home to Gretna - only hours after Rangers overtook them by winning 2-1 away to Hibernian. . . . more . . .
Benni's not for sale warns Hughes (Dec 29, 2007)
South African striker Benni McCarthy has been told he is not for sale despite being dropped by Blackburn manager Mark Hughes. . . . more . . .
Magpies pull out of move for Korean striker (Dec 29, 2007)
Newcastle have pulled out of a move to sign South Korea striker Cho Jae-jin. . . . more . . .
Japanese Eurostars wanted at home (Dec 29, 2007)
The Celtic midfielder Shunsuke Nakamura and Eintracht Frankfurt striker Naohiro Takahara are being hunted back home by J-League clubs, sports dailies reported Saturday. . . . more . . .
Matthaus among candidates for Bosnia job (Dec 28, 2007)
German football legend Lothar Matthaus is among the candidates to coach the Bosnian national side, the country's football association said Friday. . . . more . . .
Hodgson appointed Fulham manager (Dec 28, 2007)
Fulham have appointed former Inter Milan and Blackburn boss Roy Hodgson as their new manager, the Premier League club announced on Friday. . . . more . . .
Atletico increase get-out clause for Argentine prodigy Aguero (Dec 28, 2007)
Atletico Madrid announced Friday they have increased the get-out clause for Argentinian striker Sergio Aguero to 55 million euro (81 million dollars). . . . more . . .
Arsenal's Wenger wants Lehmann to stay (Dec 28, 2007)
Arsene Wenger admitted Friday he would prefer if German goalkeeper Jens Lehmann stayed with Arsenal. . . . more . . .
Aston Villa's Knight loses red card appeal (Dec 28, 2007)
Aston Villa defender Zat Knight on Friday lost his appeal against his controversial red card at Chelsea. . . . more . . .
Real players offered multi-million-euro bonus for treble (Dec 28, 2007)
Real Madrid bosses have promised players a bonus of 900,000-euro (1.3 million dollars) each if they achieve the treble - the Primera Liga, Champions League and Spanish Cup titles this season, sports daily Marca reported here on Friday. . . . more . . .
Drugs ban for Romario (Dec 28, 2007)
Former Brazilian star striker Romario has been hit with a 120 days ban after failing a doping test. . . . more . . .
Newcastle's Barton refused bail on assault charge (Dec 28, 2007)
Newcastle United and England midfielder Joey Barton was refused bail Friday after appearing in court charged with assault. . . . more . . .
Controversial Santa Cruz strike rescues Rovers (Dec 28, 2007)
Sven-Goran Eriksson admitted he has been left bemused by the latest interpretation of the offside rule after Roque Santa Cruz's controversial late equaliser sealed a 2-2 draw for Blackburn at Manchester City on Thursday. . . . more . . .
Newcastle star Barton arrested in assault probe (Dec 27, 2007)
Controversial Newcastle and England midfielder Joey Barton has reportedly been arrested in connection with an allegation of assault in Liverpool. . . . more . . .
Controversial Santa Cruz strike rescues Rovers (Dec 27, 2007)
Roque Santa Cruz ended Blackburn's four-game losing streak with a controversial late equaliser to seal a 2-2 draw at Manchester City on Thursday. . . . more . . .
Allardyce won't rush Owen back (Dec 27, 2007)
Newcastle manager Sam Allardyce insists he won't throw Michael Owen straight back into fray against Chelsea on Saturday despite his side's recent struggles. . . . more . . .
Scifo takes charge at Mouscron (Dec 27, 2007)
Former international midfielder Enzo Scifo was named as the new coach of Belgian first division side Mouscron on Thursday. . . . more . . .
Lampard ruled out for several weeks with thigh injury (Dec 27, 2007)
Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard will be out of action for several weeks after scans revealed he has suffered a torn thigh muscle. . . . more . . .
Villa appeal Knight red card (Dec 27, 2007)
Aston Villa have launched an appeal against Zat Knight's controversial red card at Chelsea. . . . more . . .
Bremen's Allofs set to receive new deal (Dec 27, 2007)
Werder Bremen have responded to the news they may lose director of sport Klaus Allofs to Bayern Munich by tabling a better offer, it was reported on Thursday. . . . more . . .
Carvalho apologises for horror tackle (Dec 27, 2007)
Chelsea defender Ricardo Carvalho has apologised to Aston Villa's Gabriel Agbonlahor for the horror tackle that marred the sides' dramatic 4-4 draw. . . . more . . .
Matsui hunted by Genoa, others: reports (Dec 27, 2007)
Genoa and several other European clubs are offering to acquire Le Mans and Japan midfielder Daisuke Matsui, sports dailies here reported Thursday. . . . more . . .
Mabi and Marchand are unlikely Africa football heroes (Dec 27, 2007)
Democratic Republic of Congo striker Mputu Mabi and French coach Bertrand Marchand were the unlikely heroes as African football turned 50 this year. . . . more . . .
Allardyce furious over Toon troubles (Dec 27, 2007)
Newcastle boss Sam Allardyce launched a furious attack on his own players who were booed off the pitch for the second successive match after losing 1-0 to struggling Wigan on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Touchline bust-up leaves Benitez and Jewell facing rap (Dec 27, 2007)
Rafa Benitez and Paul Jewell could find themselves in hot water with the Football Association after clashing at Pride Park during Liverpool's last-gasp 2-1 win over the Premiership's bottom side. . . . more . . .
Rangers about to see best of Cousin, says Smith (Dec 27, 2007)
Rangers manager Walter Smith believes Ibrox fans are about to see the best of Daniel Cousin after the striker scored in the 3-1 win over Motherwell on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Wenger fumes at Pompey's 'negativity' (Dec 27, 2007)
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger blasted Portsmouth for their negative tactics in a 0-0 draw which cost his side top spot in the Premier League. . . . more . . .
Ramos treats King with care (Dec 27, 2007)
Tottenham manager Juande Ramos admitted he will have to treat Ledley King with care after the England defender finally returned from injury. . . . more . . .
Chelsea's Grant vows to keep fighting (Dec 27, 2007)
Avram Grant vowed he would never concede defeat in the English Premier League title race, despite his Chelsea side losing ground on front-runners Arsenal and Manchester United. . . . more . . .
Keane stares into abyss (Dec 27, 2007)
Roy Keane, the former Manchester United midfielder, has learnt a series of painful lessons in his first season as a Premier League manager, but none could have hurt quite so much as that he was forced to endure at the hands of his one-time employers. . . . more . . .
Gritty Pompey end Arsenal scoring streak (Dec 26, 2007)
Arsenal surrendered top spot to Manchester United at the summit of the Premier League as resolute Portsmouth held out for a goalless draw at Fratton Park on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Jorge named as new Iran coach: report (Dec 26, 2007)
Iran has chosen Portugal's Artur Jorge as the new coach to revive the fortunes of its beleaguered national football team, the student ISNA news agency reported on Wednesday, quoting an informed source. . . . more . . .
Gerrard rides to Reds rescue (Dec 26, 2007)
Steven Gerrard scored a last-minute winner as Liverpool kept their Premier League title bid alive in dramatic fashion against bottom side Derby County here on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Cahill helps Everton get back on track (Dec 26, 2007)
Tim Cahill showed his eye for goal as the Australia midfielder put the seal on Everton's 2-0 win over Bolton on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Christmas jeers for Allardyce as Wigan escape drop zone (Dec 26, 2007)
Newcastle were booed off the pitch by their own supporters after a 1-0 defeat by Wigan that piles the pressure back on to under-fire manager Sam Allardyce. . . . more . . .
No mercy for Keane as United turn the heat on Arsenal (Dec 26, 2007)
Roy Keane's rookie season as a Premier League manager took another painful turn for the worse as his former club, Manchester United, eased to a comfortable 4-0 victory at the Stadium of Light. . . . more . . .
Gers keep up pressure on Celtic (Dec 26, 2007)
Rangers secured a vital 3-1 victory at home to Motherwell in the Scottish Premier League on Wednesday but Celtic stayed two points clear thanks to a 2-0 victory at Dundee United. . . . more . . .
Birmingham boost survival hopes (Dec 26, 2007)
Alex McLeish's Birmingham boosted their prospects of Premier League survival after beating fellow strugglers Middlesbrough 3-0 at St Andrews on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Keane reaches a century as Tottenham run riot (Dec 26, 2007)
Robbie Keane scored his 100th Premier League goal as Tottenham crushed struggling Fulham 5-1 on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Kitson keeps 10-man Reading rolling at West Ham (Dec 26, 2007)
Dave Kitson's second half strike gave 10-man Reading a battling 1-1 draw against West Ham on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Pompey's forgotten man Lauren plans to derail Arsenal (Dec 26, 2007)
Portsmouth's forgotten man Lauren is aiming to spike the Gunners' title challenge and prevent Harry Redknapp from discarding him in January. . . . more . . .
Carragher urges Liverpool not to concede title race (Dec 26, 2007)
Jamie Carragher has urged his Liverpool team-mates to keep their nerve as Rafa Benitez's side battle to stay in the title race. . . . more . . .
Rooney ready for festive season pressure points (Dec 26, 2007)
Wayne Rooney admits the pressure is on Manchester United to maintain a 100 percent record through the Christmas period if they are to make progress in their bid to overhaul league leaders Arsenal. . . . more . . .
We need to improve quickly, says Fulham's Murphy (Dec 26, 2007)
Fulham midfielder Danny Murphy fears his side's miserable season could take a turn for the worse over the Christmas programme unless they find a cure for their away-day blues. . . . more . . .
Villa hold Chelsea in eight-goal Christmas cracker (Dec 26, 2007)
Aston Villa held hosts Chelsea to a 4-4 draw with a last-minute equaliser in a festive football feast bursting with controversy at Stamford Bridge. . . . more . . .
Arsenal's Wenger starts title countdown (Dec 26, 2007)
Arsene Wenger is already counting down the days until the end of the season as Arsenal try to hold onto their position on top of the Premier League. . . . more . . .
Gunners keeper Almunia eyes England switch (Dec 25, 2007)
Spanish goalkeeper Manuel Almunia has refused to rule out switching his national colours to England. . . . more . . .
Viduka wants to be Newcastle first choice (Dec 25, 2007)
Veteran striker Mark Viduka hopes his two-goal salvo against Derby will convince Newcastle boss Sam Allarydce that he should be a regular starter in the struggling Premier League side. . . . more . . .
Gunners will prove doubters wrong, says Fabregas (Dec 25, 2007)
Cesc Fabregas has warned that Arsenal are out to prove their doubters wrong by winning the Premier League title as they embark on an ambitious year. . . . more . . .
Djukic takes charge of Serbia national team (Dec 25, 2007)
Miroslav Djukic was on Tuesday named as the new coach of Serbia with a mission to qualify the team for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. . . . more . . .
Hard times in Christmas basement (Dec 25, 2007)
You won't find Lamborghinis or Bentleys in the car park at Field Mill, the humble home of Mansfield Town, the team spending Christmas propping up the English league. . . . more . . .
Tottenham's Keane eager for penalty chance (Dec 25, 2007)
Tottenham striker Robbie Keane said he will not shirk penalty-taking responsibilities despite missing a crucial spot-kick in the 2-1 defeat at Arsenal last weekend. . . . more . . .
Anderson happily swaps beach for piece of Man Utd history (Dec 25, 2007)
Brazilian midfielder Anderson says he is happy to spend the chilly festive period playing football - and not relaxing on Copacabana beach - as he pursues his dream of making history with Manchester United. . . . more . . .
Liverpool's Benitez wary of battling Rams (Dec 25, 2007)
Derby County's underdog status for their Boxing Day match with Liverpool should count for nothing, says Reds' manager Rafael Benitez. . . . more . . .
No revenge, but Grant wants Chelsea win against Villa (Dec 25, 2007)
Chelsea manager Avram Grant is counting on a much-improved performance from his players when they go out to protect their long unbeaten record at home against Aston Villa on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Fulham caretaker has eye on job at hand (Dec 25, 2007)
Fulham caretaker boss Ray Lewington has insisted the club's search for a new manager will not hinder his bid to steer the Cottagers through the notoriously busy Christmas period. . . . more . . .
Injury fears ease for Chelsea keeper Cech (Dec 25, 2007)
Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech escaped serious injury and suffered just bruising to his hip when he limped out of the 1-0 win over Blackburn on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Cech injury fears ease (Dec 24, 2007)
Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech escaped serious injury and suffered just bruising to his hip when he limped out of the 1-0 win over Blackburn on Sunday. . . . more . . .
D-Day looms for Arsenal's Lehmann (Dec 24, 2007)
Arsenal's out-cast German goalkeeper Jens Lehmann says he will make a decision on his future within the next week as he weighs up offers to leave the north London giants. . . . more . . .
Van Basten linked to Bayern job (Dec 24, 2007)
Dutch coach Marco van Basten is poised to take over as boss of German giants Bayern Munich when Ottmar Hitzfeld's contract finishes in June next year, according to reports here. . . . more . . .
Speed will make Blades switch in January (Dec 24, 2007)
Bolton's veteran midfielder Gary Speed is set to join English Championship side Sheffield United on loan with a view to a permanent deal. . . . more . . .
Seeler warns Van der Vaart about Juve switch (Dec 24, 2007)
Hamburg's Dutch captain Rafael van der Vaart has been warned against a glamourous move to Italian giants Juventus by former German hero Uwe Seeler. . . . more . . .
History favours Inter's title chances (Dec 24, 2007)
If history repeats itself Inter Milan will continue their majestic stride towards the Serie A title and be crowned champions in May. . . . more . . .
Arsenal boss Wenger rules out January spending spree (Dec 24, 2007)
Arsene Wenger is planning to ignore the January sales because he believes Arsenal have enough strength in depth to last the pace in the Premier League title race. . . . more . . .
Everton snub Celtic loan move for McFadden (Dec 24, 2007)
Everton have rejected Celtic's bid to sign Scotland forward James McFadden on loan. . . . more . . .
Tottenham confirm Gunter deal (Dec 24, 2007)
Tottenham will complete the signing of Wales defender Chris Gunter from Cardiff for a fee of around two million pounds when the transfer window opens in January. . . . more . . .
Capello's just Fab, says Beckham (Dec 24, 2007)
David Beckham insists he has no problem with Fabio Capello and can't wait to work with the new England coach. . . . more . . .
Unstoppable Inter scalp world champions AC Milan in Serie A (Dec 24, 2007)
In a battle between the world's best and Italy's best it was the domestic champions Inter who beat AC Milan 2-1 at the San Siro in Sunday's first Milan derby of the season. . . . more . . .
Smith sees red over McCulloch sending off (Dec 24, 2007)
Rangers boss Walter Smith has criticised the linesman who intervened to ensure that Scotland midfielder Lee McCulloch was sent off in his side's 1-1 draw at Aberdeen on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Viduka set to concentrate on Newcastle (Dec 24, 2007)
Mark Viduka's enduring value to club and country is beyond question but it appears Newcastle United, indebted to the Australian for a brace against Derby County on Sunday, are winning a battle for the forward's loyalty. . . . more . . .
Ice-cool Ronaldo absolutely perfect for Fergie (Dec 24, 2007)
Sir Alex Ferguson has paid tribute to Cristiano Ronaldo's ice-cool temperament after the Portuguese winger's nerveless late penalty winner against Everton kept Manchester United's title challenge on track. . . . more . . .
Ballack eyes up Euro 2008 and Champions League crowns (Dec 24, 2007)
After the longest injury break in his 12-year career, Germany captain Michael Ballack wants to compensate by lifting the Champions League trophy with Chelsea and the Euro 2008 title with his country. . . . more . . .
Chelsea sweating on Cech injury (Dec 24, 2007)
Chelsea face a nervous Christmas as goalkeeper Petr Cech waits to learn the extent of a hip injury sustained during Sunday's 1-0 win over Blackburn. . . . more . . .
Luyindula lifts PSG out of danger (Dec 23, 2007)
Peguy Luyindula's second half header lifted Paris Saint Germain to a vital 1-0 win at Saint Etienne on Sunday, an early Christmas present that lifted Paul Le Guen's side out of the danger zone. . . . more . . .
Real's Baptista make it a beastly night for Barca (Dec 23, 2007)
Julio Baptista gave Real Madrid coach Bernd Schuster the Christmas present he wanted by getting the only goal in a hard-fought 1-0 win over their bitter rivals Barcelona on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Cech injury mars Chelsea win (Dec 23, 2007)
Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech added to the club's growing injury crisis by limping out of the 1-0 win at Blackburn on Sunday with a suspected hip injury. . . . more . . .
Smith sees red over McCulloch sending off (Dec 23, 2007)
Rangers boss Walter Smith has criticised the linesman who intervened to ensure that Scotland midfielder Lee McCulloch was sent off in his side's 1-1 draw at Aberdeen on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Ballack eyes up Euro 2008 and Champions League crowns (Dec 23, 2007)
After the longest injury break in his 12-year career, Germany captain Michael Ballack wants to compensate by lifting the Champions League trophy with Chelsea and the Euro 2008 title with his country. . . . more . . .
Germany are not favourites insists Loew (Dec 23, 2007)
Germany's head coach Joachim Loew insisted on Sunday his side are not amongst the top favourites to be crowned European champions at Euro 2008 next June. . . . more . . .
Bent not for sale, says Comolli (Dec 23, 2007)
England international Darren Bent will not be put on the transfer market in the New Year, according to Tottenham's sporting director Damien Comolli. . . . more . . .
Roberto Carlos backs Beckham as Capello's skipper (Dec 23, 2007)
David Beckham's former Real Madrid teammate Roberto Carlos believes new England coach Fabio Capello will name the midfielder as the national captain. . . . more . . .
Viduka spares Newcastle's blushes (Dec 23, 2007)
Mark Viduka saved Newcastle United from the ignominy of a second successive defeat against struggling Derby County after his 87th minute goal salvaged a 2-2 draw at St James's Park on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Basement French club Metz sack coach De Taddeo (Dec 23, 2007)
French relegation strugglers FC Metz on Sunday sacked head coach Francis De Taddeo. . . . more . . .
I asked Henry to join Liverpool, says Gerarrd (Dec 23, 2007)
Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has admitted that he tried to persuade friend Thierry Henry to join him at Anfield. . . . more . . .
England coach should have been English: former manager Venables (Dec 23, 2007)
Terry Venables believes the English FA should have picked an Englishman and not Italian Fabio Capello as England manager. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo double keeps Man Utd on Arsenal's tail (Dec 23, 2007)
Cristiano Ronaldo's double ensured Manchester United overcame a spirited Everton to move back to within one point of leaders Arsenal at the head of Premier League table. . . . more . . .
Cristiano better than Kaka: Man Utd's Queiroz (Dec 23, 2007)
Manchester United's Portuguese winger Cristiano Ronaldo is a better player than Kaka, last week named FIFA world player of the year, according to the English Premier League club's assistant boss Carlos Queiroz. . . . more . . .
Croatia boss Bilic rules out Fulham move (Dec 23, 2007)
Croatia coach Slaven Bilic has ruled out a move to English Premier League club Fulham. . . . more . . .
Top German politician slams big-spending Bayern (Dec 23, 2007)
Norbert Lammert, president of Germany's parliament, has slammed the country's top football sides, particularly giants Bayern Munich, for the "excessive" salaries they pay. . . . more . . .
Transfer market tougher as financial gap narrows: Chelsea boss (Dec 23, 2007)
The narrowing of the financial gap between Chelsea and their English Premier League rivals has made the transfer market a much tougher proposition, according to the London club's coach. . . . more . . .
'El Clasico' brings Spain's top two together at Nou Camp (Dec 23, 2007)
Few derby matches in the world can match the excitement of Barcelona's clashes with Real Madrid and the latest edition of this long-running series will be no different. . . . more . . .
Unstoppable Inter scalp world champions AC Milan in Seire A action (Dec 23, 2007)
In a battle between the world's best and Italy's best it was the domestic champions Inter who beat AC Milan 2-1 at the San Siro in Sunday's first Milan derby of the season. . . . more . . .
England chiefs take a realistic line on Capello (Dec 23, 2007)
England fans have been warned not to expect miracles from Fabio Capello by the men who appointed the multiple trophy winning Italian to the so-called 'hardest job in football'. . . . more . . .
Strachan slams Celtic defence (Dec 23, 2007)
Gordon Strachan slammed his defence after Celtic again slipped up in their Scottish Premier League defence on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Sven plays Santa for City stars (Dec 23, 2007)
Sven-Goran Eriksson has decided to play Santa Claus at Manchester City by giving his players a holiday on Christmas Day rather than make them slog through training like most of their peers at other English clubs. . . . more . . .
Spanish striker Torres comes to Rafa's rescue (Dec 23, 2007)
Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez hailed the impact of Fernando Torres after the Spanish striker's two goals helped his side make a timely return to winning ways. . . . more . . .
Wenger hails Almunia as Gunners saviour (Dec 23, 2007)
Arsene Wenger hailed Manuel Almunia for keeping Arsenal's English Premier League title challenge on track after a fortunate 2-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Valencia grab a point and some pride with two late goals (Dec 22, 2007)
Goals in the last 15 minutes from Nicola Zigic and David Silva helped Valencia salvage a 2-2 draw at Real Zaragoza on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Double delight for Totti keeps Roma in Serie A title hunt (Dec 22, 2007)
Returning Roma talisman Francesco Totti scored a brace to earn the capital-based club a 2-0 win over Sampdoria at the Stadio Olimpico on Saturday and keep them in the Serie A title chase. . . . more . . .
Nancy 'rattle' French league champions Lyon (Dec 22, 2007)
Nancy scored in the dying minutes to keep the French league title race alive heading into the three-week winter break with a thrilling 1-1 draw against leaders Lyon on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Torres delivers Christmas cheer as Reds sink Pompey (Dec 22, 2007)
Fernando Torres maintained his scoring burst as Liverpool returned to winning ways with a 4-1 victory over Portsmouth at Anfield on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Celts title hopes dashed by managerless Hibs (Dec 22, 2007)
Celtic suffered another blow to their Scottish Premier League title hopes when they were held to a 1-1 draw at home to managerless Hibernian on Saturday. . . . more . . .
We need to be at our best, says Ancelotti (Dec 22, 2007)
AC Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti admitted Saturday that his European and world champions will need to play the perfect match on Sunday if they are to topple cross city rivals Inter Milan. . . . more . . .
City cling on to top four status (Dec 22, 2007)
Martin O'Neill was forced to endure another frustrating afternoon as Aston Villa were held to a 1-1 draw by Manchester City on Saturday - their third successive game at Villa Park without a win. . . . more . . .
Dempsey helps lift Fulham out of danger (Dec 22, 2007)
Fulham's Clint Dempsey fired in a late equaliser to grab a crucial point in his side's relegation battle with Wigan which ended 1-1 at Craven Cottage. . . . more . . .
Last-minute curse sends Black Cats back to drop zone (Dec 22, 2007)
Sunderland dropped back into the relegation zone after Stephen Hunt's stoppage time winner gave Reading a 2-1 win here on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Parker gives West Ham another happy away day (Dec 22, 2007)
Scott Parker's last minute strike gave West Ham a 2-1 win at Middlesbrough on Saturday that extended their impressive away form. . . . more . . .
Century-breaker Anelka helps Bolton extend run (Dec 22, 2007)
France striker Nicolas Anelka past the 100 goal mark in the English top flight on Saturday after he scored a brace to help Bolton beat Birmingham 3-0 at the Reebok Stadium. . . . more . . .
Dortmund's Weidenfeller out for up to three months (Dec 22, 2007)
Mid-table Bundesliga side Borussia Dortmund received more bad news on Saturday when it emerged goalkeeper Roman Weidenfeller looks set to miss the next three months with a shoulder injury. . . . more . . .
'El Clasico' clash brings Spain's top two together (Dec 22, 2007)
Few derby matches in the world can match the excitement of Barcelona's clashes with Real Madrid and the latest edition of this long-running series will be no different. . . . more . . .
Italy braced for Milan derby (Dec 22, 2007)
The best team in Italy will take on the best team in the world in the eagerly anticipated Milan derby this Sunday. . . . more . . .
Everton's Pienaar wants to arrive late for African Nations Cup (Dec 22, 2007)
Steven Pienaar will ask South Africa coach Carlos Alberto Parreira for dispensation to arrive late for the Bafana Bafana's African Nations Cup campaign. . . . more . . .
Van der Vaart imagining future with Juventus (Dec 22, 2007)
Hamburg's Dutch midfielder Rafael Van der Vaart has said he could imagine playing for Italian giants Juventus and would soon make a decision on where his career will take him. . . . more . . .
Ballack insists Lehmann is Germany's No 1 (Dec 22, 2007)
Germany captain Michael Ballack insisted on Saturday that out-of-favour Arsenal goalkeeper Jens Lehmann will be the right man for the national team at June's Euro 2008 tournament. . . . more . . .
Capello has 'aura' to rekindle England fire: FA director (Dec 22, 2007)
New coach Fabio Capello has the aura to "rekindle the fire" of the under-performing England team, according to Trevor Brooking. . . . more . . .
Lyon confident of stretching lead over Nancy (Dec 22, 2007)
French minnows Nancy are not used to being seen as a giant of European football but that is the status they have been generously afforded by Lyon keeper Remy Vercoutre. . . . more . . .
Eriksson takes Hart for Villa clash (Dec 22, 2007)
Joe Hart will face Aston Villa having being formally endorsed as Manchester City's number one goalkeeper by manager Sven Goran Eriksson. . . . more . . .
Alonso eager to make impact on Anfield return (Dec 22, 2007)
Xabi Alonso said he is ready to make up for lost time as the Liverpool midfielder prepares to make his long-awaited Premier League return against Portsmouth on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Happy Christmas for Gunners as Spurs pay for penalty miss (Dec 22, 2007)
Nicklas Bendtner proved an unlikely hero for Arsenal as his late goal secured a precious 2-1 victory over Tottenham on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Collins lined up to succeed Sanchez at Fulham (Dec 22, 2007)
John Collins has emerged as the front runner to take over at Fulham after the struggling Premier League club sacked Lawrie Sanchez. . . . more . . .
Beckham to become a temporary Gunner (Dec 21, 2007)
David Beckham is close to finalising a deal which will see him prepare for England's next game in February by training with Arsenal. . . . more . . .
Czech striker Vlcek signs for Anderlecht (Dec 21, 2007)
Czech international Stanislav Vlcek has signed a one and a half season deal with Belgian champions Anderlecht from Slavia Prague, the Czech club announced on Friday. . . . more . . .
United sign Angola striker Manucho (Dec 21, 2007)
Manchester United signed Angola striker Manucho Goncalves on a three-year contract from Petro Athletico on Friday. . . . more . . .
Grant cautious over Olympiakos test (Dec 21, 2007)
Avram Grant is determined not to underestimate Olympiakos after Chelsea were drawn against the Greek club in the last 16 of the Champions League. . . . more . . .
Strachan thrilled by Barca tie (Dec 21, 2007)
Celtic manager Gordon Strachan is relishing the chance to pit his wits against Barcelona after being handed a Champions League last 16 clash against the Spanish giants. . . . more . . .
Novo agrees new Rangers deal (Dec 21, 2007)
Rangers striker Nacho Novo signed a new two-year contract with the Scottish Premier League club on Friday. . . . more . . .
Dons enter Bayern battle in UEFA knock-out stage (Dec 21, 2007)
Scottish Premier League side Aberdeen have their work cut out in the UEFA Cup knock-out stage after being drawn against 1996 winners Bayern Munich on Friday. . . . more . . .
