Archive soccer news from around the world
City see off plucky part-timers (Jul 31, 2008)
Manchester City reached the second qualifying round of this season's UEFA Cup with a 2-0 win over part-timers EB/Streymur from the Faroe Islands that gave the Premier League side a 4-0 aggregate victory. . . . more . . .
Javi says he is returning to Real Madrid as a better player (Jul 31, 2008)
Javi Garcia said Thursday that he is returning to Spanish champions Real Madrid after one season at Osasuna as a much improved player. . . . more . . .
Valencia want to keep Spanish stars Villa and Silva (Jul 31, 2008)
Valencia vice-president Fernando Gomez said Thursday that the financially troubled Spanish club would do everything it can to keep their star players David Villa and David Silva. . . . more . . .
Pepe finds inspiration in Armstrong cancer battle book (Jul 31, 2008)
Real Madrid's Portuguese defender Pepe said Thursday that he has been inspired by reading seven-time tour de France winner Lance Armstrong's best-selling book on his struggles with cancer. . . . more . . .
Barton charged by FA over Man City clash (Jul 31, 2008)
Controversial footballer Joey Barton was charged Thursday by the Football Association (FA) with violent conduct. . . . more . . .
Barton charged by FA over City clash (Jul 31, 2008)
Controversial footballer Joey Barton was charged Thursday by the Football Association (FA) with violent conduct. . . . more . . .
Cameroon's Meyong to Braga (Jul 31, 2008)
Top flight Portuguese outfit Sporting Braga on Thursday said they had signed Cameroon international striker Albert Meyong Ze from Spain's Levante on a two-year contract. . . . more . . .
Real sell Soldado to Getafe (Jul 31, 2008)
Striker Roberto Soldado has left Real Madrid for top flight Madrid suburbs side Getafe, who unveiled him officially on Thursday. . . . more . . .
We'll be ready for CL preliminaries, says Prandelli (Jul 31, 2008)
Fiorentina coach Cesare Prandelli was upbeat despite watching his side out-played by Barcelona in a 3-1 friendly defeat. . . . more . . .
Capello backs Ronaldinho-Milan partnership (Jul 31, 2008)
England coach Fabio Capello said the acquisition of Ronaldinho has made AC Milan favourites for the Serie A title. . . . more . . .
Spurs unveil Bentley (Jul 31, 2008)
Tottenham on Thursday unveiled new signing David Bentley, who has cost an initial 15 million pounds (22 million euros) from Blackburn. . . . more . . .
Ronaldinho says Brazil will blend youth and experience (Jul 31, 2008)
Ronaldinho said on Thursday that Brazil will blend youth and experience as the 'auriverde' bid for a first Olympic football gold. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo still dreaming of Real (Jul 31, 2008)
Manchester United's Portuguese striker Ronaldo is still dreaming of Real Madrid, despite his club's total opposition to his leaving, Spanish sports daily AS reported on Thursday. . . . more . . .
Gunners spike Lehmann's Stuttgart debut (Jul 31, 2008)
German veteran keeper Jens Lehmann conceded three second half goals as former club Arsenal beat his new side Stuttgart in a pre-season friendly late Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Boghossian to assist France coach Domenech (Jul 31, 2008)
Former international midfielder Alain Boghossian is to assist France coach Raymond Domenech, a source close to the French camp told AFP on Thursday, confirming a report in French daily Le Parisien. . . . more . . .
Gunners spike Lehmann's Stuttgart debut (Jul 31, 2008)
German veteran keeper Jens Lehmann conceded three second half goals as former club Arsenal beat his new side Stuttgart in a pre-season friendly late Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Zenit try to lure Valbuena from Marseille (Jul 31, 2008)
Russia's reigning champions Zenit St Petersburg have made French top flight side Marseille an 18-million-euro offer for their midfielder Mathieu Valbuena, local press reported Thursday. . . . more . . .
Torres and Keane pairing excites Liverpool manager (Jul 31, 2008)
Rafael Benitez believes he has already seen signs that his new strike force of Robbie Keane and Fernando Torres will gel ahead of the start of Liverpool's coming campaign. . . . more . . .
Barca's Messi heads to China after FIFA ruling (Jul 30, 2008)
Barcelona striker Lionel Messi will head to China early Thursday to join the Argentina squad for the Olympics which get underway next week, the Spanish club said. . . . more . . .
Rangers left with tricky trip after Kaunas draw (Jul 30, 2008)
Rangers face a nervy return leg in Lithuania after a goalless draw against FBK Kaunas at Ibrox here Wednesday in the second qualifying round of the Champions League. . . . more . . .
Keane makes Liverpool debut in friendly draw (Jul 30, 2008)
Robbie Keane made his Liverpool debut in a 0-0 friendly draw at Villarreal on Wednesday night following a 20 million-pound (40 million-dollar) transfer from Tottenham Hotspur. . . . more . . .
Rangers left with tricky trip after Kaunas draw (Jul 30, 2008)
Rangers face a nervy return leg in Lithuania after a goalless draw against FBK Kaunas at Ibrox here Wednesday in the second qualifying round of the Champions League. . . . more . . .
Chelsea's Ben Haim joins Manchester City (Jul 30, 2008)
Israel international defender Tal Ben Haim has joined Manchester City from English Premier League rivals Chelsea, according to the buying club's website on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Fire lands McBride from Toronto in MLS deal (Jul 30, 2008)
Toronto FC traded forward Brian McBride, a former standout for England's Fulham, to the Chicago Fire on Wednesday for forward Chad Barrett and a 2009 first-round Major League Soccer Draft pick. . . . more . . .
Spurs set to announce Bentley signing (Jul 30, 2008)
Tottenham Hotspur are set to announce the signing of England midfielder David Bentley from Premier League rivals Blackburn Rovers after calling a press conference for Thursday. . . . more . . .
Real coach complains of being left in dark over transfers (Jul 30, 2008)
Real Madrid's German coach Bernd Schuster hit out Wednesday at the Spanish club's managers as he complained that he was being kept in the dark over possible new recruits. . . . more . . .
Bayern's Ribery set for second ankle operation (Jul 30, 2008)
Bayern Munich's French midfielder Franck Ribery is set to have a second ankle operation on Friday, according to reports here. . . . more . . .
Bremen, Schalke to fight FIFA's Olympic ruling (Jul 30, 2008)
Werder Bremen and Schalke 04 will fight to bring their Olympic players back to Germany after FIFA on Wednesday ruled all clubs must allow eligible players to attend next month's Beijing Games. . . . more . . .
Barry staying at Villa (Jul 30, 2008)
Aston Villa captain Gareth Barry is to stay with the Midlands club after repeated approaches from Premier League rivals Liverpool. . . . more . . .
Portugal's Petit smells success at new club Cologne (Jul 30, 2008)
Portugal midfielder Petit signed a two-year contract with newly promoted Bundesliga side Cologne on Wednesday, after joining from Portuguese side Benfica on a free transfer. . . . more . . .
Babel inspires Netherlands to victory in Olympic warm-up (Jul 30, 2008)
Liverpool starlet Ryan Babel climbed off the bench to inspire The Netherlands to a 2-0 victory over Cameroon in a pre-Olympic tournament in steamy Hong Kong on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Man Utd and Ronaldo to decide future next week - Calderon (Jul 30, 2008)
Manchester United and Cristiano Ronaldo are to hold contract talks next week, Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon said on Wednesday, adding he is still willing to splash out on the Portuguese star. . . . more . . .
Portugal's Petit set to sign for Cologne (Jul 30, 2008)
Portugal midfielder Petit is set to sign a two-year contract with newly-promoted Bundesliga side Cologne from Portuguese giants Benfica for an undisclosed amount, according to a report here on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Fulham sign Sweden's Stoor (Jul 30, 2008)
Fulham signed Sweden defender Fredrik Stoor from Norwegian side Rosenborg on Wednesday, the English Premier League club announced. . . . more . . .
Barca's Messi heads to Beijing (Jul 30, 2008)
Barcelona striker Lionel Messi says he will defy his Spanish club's orders and join up with Argentina's Olympic squad this week. . . . more . . .
Nike gives Barton the boot (Jul 30, 2008)
Joey Barton, released from prison this week following his conviction for assault in May, has lost his 40,000-pound-a-year boot sponsorship deal with Nike. . . . more . . .
Nike give Barton the boot (Jul 30, 2008)
Joey Barton, released from prison this week following his conviction for assualt in May, has lost his 40,000 pound (62,000 dollar) a year boot sponsorship deal with Nike. . . . more . . .
Scolari upbeat after Asian tour as side takes shape (Jul 30, 2008)
New coach Luiz Felipe Scolari was upbeat after Chelsea completed the Asian leg of their pre-season tour, saying he had seen enough to convince him he has a side that can win the Premier League. . . . more . . .
Wayne Bridge relishing chance under Scolari (Jul 30, 2008)
Wayne Bridge is relishing the chance to challenge Ashley Cole for a regular first team place as an attacking full-back under new Chelsea boss Luiz Felipe Scolari. . . . more . . .
Van der Sar baffled by Ronaldo's Real dream (Jul 30, 2008)
Edwin van der Sar cannot understand why Cristiano Ronaldo would want to play for any club other than Manchester United. . . . more . . .
Euro 2008 organisers confident successors will be ready (Jul 29, 2008)
Euro 2008 chief organiser Martin Kallen said Tuesday he was confident that Poland and Ukraine would be ready to stage the event without a hitch in 2012. . . . more . . .
Blow on head in training for Eto'o (Jul 29, 2008)
Barcelona's Cameroon striker Samuel Eto'o on Tuesday suffered a blow to the head in training although tests showed he had not suffered serious injury, the club reported. . . . more . . .
Chris Eagles leaves United nest (Jul 29, 2008)
Manchester United's Chris Eagles has left the English and European champions to join second-tier Championship club Burnley on a three-year deal. . . . more . . .
Chelsea make it three wins out of three (Jul 29, 2008)
Nicolas Anelka and Ashley Cole scored as Chelsea rounded off their Asian tour with 2-0 win over a Malaysian XI on Tuesday, continuing their bright start under new coach Luiz Felipe Scolari. . . . more . . .
Keegan gets his wish as Newcastle keep Barton (Jul 29, 2008)
Troubled Newcastle United midfielder Joey Barton is to stay with the English Premier League team after being released from prison, the north-east club announced Tuesday. . . . more . . .
Wigan sign Cattermole (Jul 29, 2008)
Wigan have signed Lee Cattermole from rival Premier League side Middlesbrough, it was announced Tuesday. . . . more . . .
Euro 2008 generates record profits (Jul 29, 2008)
The Euro 2008 football championship generated record profits of 250 million euros (392 million dollars), European football's governing body UEFA announced on Tuesday. . . . more . . .
Real Madrid players irritated by Ronaldo transfer saga (Jul 29, 2008)
Real Madrid players have become frustrated with the constant speculation over Cristiano Ronaldo's possible transfer from Manchester United which Spanish media reported Tuesday had become bogged down. . . . more . . .
Keane revels in Liverpool transfer (Jul 29, 2008)
Robbie Keane hailed his arrival at Anfield as the start of a "new chapter in my life" as he was unveiled as a Liverpool player on Tuesday. . . . more . . .
Maniche sticking with Atletico (Jul 29, 2008)
Atletico Madrid's Portugal international midfielder Maniche, loaned out to Inter Milan last season after a falling out with manager Javier Aguirre, is sticking with the Spanish club next season. . . . more . . .
Japan beat Argentina 2-0 in Olympic tune up (Jul 29, 2008)
Forwards Shinobu Ono and Yuki Nagasato scored one goal each to give Japan a 2-0 win over Argentina on Tuesday in a women's tune-up match for the Beijing Olympics. . . . more . . .
No League Cup reprieve for PSG (Jul 29, 2008)
League Cup winners Paris Saint Germain's bid to overturn a ban on them competing in the 2008-2009 competition was on Tuesday turned down by the French football federation (FFF). . . . more . . .
No 'gimmick' players for Chelsea as they build Asia image (Jul 29, 2008)
Manchester United and other Englsih clubs might have Asians in their squads but you won't find one at Chelsea, with chief executive Peter Kenyon ruling out any "gimmick" players. . . . more . . .
Fabregas pledges loyalty to Arsenal (Jul 28, 2008)
Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas has slammed a report suggesting he is considering a move to Real Madrid. . . . more . . .
Barcelona to take Messi on US tour despite Olympic row - report (Jul 28, 2008)
Barcelona could take Argentine playmaker Lionel Messi on tour to Italy and the United States later this week even if FIFA orders the Spanish club to release him for the Olympic Games, a newspaper reported Monday. . . . more . . .
Brazil wins pre-Olympics exhibition match in Singapore (Jul 28, 2008)
Led by AC Milan star Ronaldinho, Brazil's pre-Olympics preparations were off to a smooth start as the samba kings defeated a stubborn Singapore Selection side 3-0 in an exhibition match Monday. . . . more . . .
Gallas apologises for captaincy errors (Jul 28, 2008)
William Gallas has apologised for the mistakes he made last season as Arsenal captain and promised to learn from his errors should Arsene Wenger entrust him with the on-field leadership of the side in the upcoming campaign. . . . more . . .
Diouf joins Sunderland (Jul 28, 2008)
El Hadji Diouf has become the latest addition to the Sunderland squad after joining the north-east club from Premier League rivals Bolton Wanderers for an undisclosed fee on Monday. . . . more . . .
Liverpool sign Keane on four-year deal (Jul 28, 2008)
Liverpool signed Robbie Keane from Premier League rivals Tottenham on a four-year deal, a statement on the Anfield club's website said Monday. . . . more . . .
Argentina's Placente signs for Bordeaux (Jul 28, 2008)
Argentine international defender Diego Placente on Monday signed a two-year contract with French first division runners-up Bordeaux. . . . more . . .
Liverpool closing in on Spurs' Keane (Jul 28, 2008)
Liverpool are set to sign Robbie Keane from Premier League rivals Tottenham within the next 24 hours, a source told AFP on Monday. . . . more . . .
Ghana's Muntari unveiled as Inter player (Jul 28, 2008)
Inter Milan on Monday unveiled their second major summer signing with the arrival of Ghana midfielder Sulley Muntari. . . . more . . .
Bruckner unveiled as Austria coach (Jul 28, 2008)
Former Czech Republic boss Karel Bruckner underlined his 2010 World Cup ambitions for Austria as he was officially unveiled on Monday as their new coach. . . . more . . .
Kenyon says Lampard, Drogba to stay with Chelsea (Jul 28, 2008)
Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon expects Frank Lampard, Didier Drogba and Andriy Shevchenko to start the season at Stamford Bridge, and has reiterated the club's interest in Robinho. . . . more . . .
Kenyon expects Lampard, Drogba to start season with Chelsea (Jul 28, 2008)
Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon expects Frank Lampard, Didier Drogba and Andriy Shevchenko to start the season at Stamford Bridge, and has reiterated the club's interest in Robinho. . . . more . . .
Scolari targets unprecedented quadruple trophy haul (Jul 28, 2008)
Chelsea coach Luiz Felipe Scolari says he is targeting an unprecedented four trophies in his first season and is close to finalising the starting 11 who he hopes will achieve the feat. . . . more . . .
Pompey target Wright-Phillips happy at Chelsea - Scolari (Jul 28, 2008)
Portsmouth target Shaun Wright-Phillips is happy at Chelsea and will stay with the club, according to coach Luiz Felipe Scolari. . . . more . . .
Olympics harder than World Cup, says Brazil's Dunga (Jul 27, 2008)
Securing a first Olympic title will be a tougher job than the World Cup, Brazil's coach Dunga said Sunday, and insisted his young team was up to the task of football gold at the Beijing Games. . . . more . . .
United see off Portsmouth in Lagos friendly (Jul 27, 2008)
European champions Manchester United defeated fellow English Premier League club Portsmouth 2-1 in a pre-season friendly played at the Abuja National Stadium in Lagos on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Lack of finances no excuse, insists Bayern's Klinsmann (Jul 27, 2008)
The lack of financial fire-power felt by Germany's top clubs compared to their European neighbours is no excuse for failure in the Champions League, insists Bayern Munich coach Jurgen Klinsmann. . . . more . . .
Barton to be given second chance by Keegan (Jul 27, 2008)
Talented but controversial Newcastle midfielder Joey Barton was given the full support of the Premiership side's manager Kevin Keegan on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Newboy Friedel predicts Villa top four place (Jul 26, 2008)
Goalkeeper Brad Friedel completed his 2.5 million pound move from Blackburn to Aston Villa on Saturday and vowed to help the Midlands side break into the Premier League top four. . . . more . . .
Spurs defender Chimbonda joins Sunderland (Jul 26, 2008)
French defender Pascal Chimbonda has joined Sunderland from Premier League rivals Tottenham on a three-year contract for an undisclosed fee, the north-east club announced Saturday. . . . more . . .
Hamburg beat Man City, Bayern held (Jul 26, 2008)
Hamburg's new recruit Jonathan Pitroipa celebrated his debut with the winning goal as the Bundesliga side beat English Premier League side Manchester City 1-0 on Saturday in a pre-season friendly. . . . more . . .
Messi hits hat-trick in friendly win (Jul 26, 2008)
Argentine star Lionel Messi, currently at the centre of an Olympic Games club-or-country row, hit a hat-trick in Barcelona's 5-1 pre-season friendly win over Scotland's Dundee United on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Di Natale says penalty miss is forgotten (Jul 26, 2008)
Udinese forward Antonio Di Natale said on Saturday he has put June's costly Euro 2008 penalty miss against Spain well and truly behind him. . . . more . . .
Rooney recovers his cool in United romp (Jul 26, 2008)
Wayne Rooney showed he has heeded the advice of Brazilian great Pele by rounding off Manchester United's tour of South Africa with a dazzling performance in a 4-0 win against Kaizer Chiefs at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday. . . . more . . .
UN advisor Lemke confident for 2010 World Cup (Jul 26, 2008)
Willi Lemke, a United Nations' special representative for sports and development, on Saturday pledged his full support to the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. . . . more . . .
7-Up Chelsea put Chengdu Blades to the sword (Jul 26, 2008)
Joe Cole struck twice as Chelsea hammered Chengdu Blades 7-0 on Saturday in a stylish rout which indicated new coach Luiz Felipe Scolari may be about to throw off the team's "boring" tag. . . . more . . .
Zanetti impressed by Mourinho's training methods (Jul 26, 2008)
Inter Milan's Argentinian captain Javier Zanetti said on Saturday that he has been impressed with new boss Jose Mourinho's training methods since the Portuguese arrived at the San Siro. . . . more . . .
Stoke boss Pulis defends Olofinjana signing (Jul 26, 2008)
Nigeria midfielder Seyi Olofinjana joined Premier League newcomers Stoke City on Saturday for three million pounds (six million dollars) on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Chelsea's Bosingwa to miss start of season: Scolari (Jul 26, 2008)
New Chelsea signing Jose Bosingwa will miss the start of the Premier League season after being forced out of their Asian tour with a thigh injury, coach Luiz Felipe Scolari said on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Rangers' Ferguson promises to overcome injury blues (Jul 26, 2008)
Rangers captain Barry Ferguson has insisted he will come back "stronger and better than before" following ankle surgery. . . . more . . .
Chelsea's John Obi aiming to fill Makelele's boots (Jul 26, 2008)
Chelsea midfielder John Mikel Obi said he was hoping to step into Claude Makelele's shoes by making the holding role his own next season. . . . more . . .
Ballack laughs off Fergie age taunts (Jul 26, 2008)
Star midfielder Michael Ballack said he had nothing left to prove in the latter part of his career and backed Chelsea's 30-somethings to have the last laugh over Manchester United's Alex Ferguson. . . . more . . .
Footballer John Obi wants to fill Claude's boots (Jul 26, 2008)
Chelsea midfielder John Mikel Obi said he was hoping to step into Claude Makelele's shoes by making the holding role his own next season. . . . more . . .
Rovers seal deal for England keeper Robinson (Jul 25, 2008)
Blackburn Rovers on Friday signed Tottenham's England goalkeeper Paul Robinson for 3.5 million pounds (4.44 million euros), the Lancashire club announced. . . . more . . .
One year later, US Beckham-mania slows while MLS grows (Jul 25, 2008)
David Beckham, who sparked a wave of "Beckhamania" one year ago when he joined the Los Angeles Galaxy, has seen the fascination slow and Major League Soccer grow due in part to his arrival. . . . more . . .
Mexes reunited with daughter after robber ordeal (Jul 25, 2008)
AS Roma's French defender Philippe Mexes suffered a terrifying ordeal when thieves stole his car, with his two-year-old daughter inside. . . . more . . .
Ferguson distances himself from 2012 Olympics role (Jul 25, 2008)
Sir Alex Ferguson has cooled speculation linking him with a role as manager of Great Britain's football team at the 2012 London Olympics. . . . more . . .
Yorke suffers suspected fractured cheekbone (Jul 25, 2008)
Sunderland midfielder Dwight Yorke is likely to miss the rest of the Premier League club's pre-season programme after suffering a suspected fractured cheekbone. . . . more . . .
Roma boss Spalletti gives up Mutu chase (Jul 25, 2008)
AS Roma coach Luciano Spalletti admitted on Friday that he has all but given up on his bid to sign Romania forward Adrian Mutu. . . . more . . .
Carson vows to make up for England blunder (Jul 25, 2008)
Scott Carson has vowed to erase bitter memories of the mistake that stopped England reaching Euro 2008 by regaining his position as Fabio Capello's first choice goalkeeper. . . . more . . .
Maniche makes his peace with Atletico (Jul 25, 2008)
Atletico Madrid's Portugal international Maniche, loaned out to Inter Milan last season after a falling out with manager Javier Aguirre, says he wants to see out his contract with the Spanish club. . . . more . . .
Rovers give Villa permission to talk to Friedel (Jul 25, 2008)
Blackburn have given Aston Villa permission to speak to American goalkeeper Brad Friedel about a move to Martin O'Neill's club. . . . more . . .
Bruckner to take over as Austria coach (Jul 25, 2008)
Former Czech Republic boss Karel Bruckner is to take over as coach of Austria, the APA news agency reported on Friday. . . . more . . .
Adriano delighted to be back playing at Inter (Jul 25, 2008)
Brazil forward Adriano said he was delighted to pull on the Inter Milan shirt again after a year in which alcoholism and depression threatened to derail his career. . . . more . . .
Cannavaro keen to commit to Real (Jul 25, 2008)
Real Madrid's Italian international defender Fabio Cannavaro said Friday he was keen to extend his contract with the Spanish champions beyond its 2009 deadline. . . . more . . .
Newcastle's Martins to miss pre-season after mother's death (Jul 25, 2008)
Newcastle United striker Obafemi Martins will return to Nigeria on Friday following the death of his mother. . . . more . . .
Capello wants Lampard to stay in England (Jul 25, 2008)
England coach Fabio Capello on Friday urged Frank Lampard to snub Inter Milan and stay at Chelsea. . . . more . . .
Neville commits to Everton (Jul 25, 2008)
Everton captain Phil Neville revealed Friday he has signed a new four-year deal that will keep him at Goodison Park until 2012. . . . more . . .
Brazil's Jo vows to score plenty of goals for Man City (Jul 25, 2008)
Brazilian striker Jo has vowed to repay Mark Hughes' faith and score a hatful of goals for his new club Manchester City next season. . . . more . . .
No way I'm Jose, fumes Chelsea boss (Jul 25, 2008)
New Chelsea coach Luiz Felipe Scolari hit back at comparisons with his flamboyant predecessor Jose Mourinho and also resisted pressure for more attacking play. . . . more . . .
Deco 'not too old to learn at 30' (Jul 25, 2008)
New Chelsea playmaker Deco brushed off Alex Ferguson's jibes about the team's age as he insisted he still had room to develop at the age of 30. . . . more . . .
Lure of India excites United (Jul 24, 2008)
Manchester United are considering offers to play a friendly game in India, with the English Premier League and European champions keen to tap into the growing demand for football on the sub-continent. . . . more . . .
Ferguson will advise on United successor: Gill (Jul 24, 2008)
David Gill, Manchester United's chief executive, has admitted the club will seek the opinion of Sir Alex Ferguson before naming his successor when the Old Trafford manager finally retires. . . . more . . .
Barcelona crush Hibs 6-0 in Guardiola debut (Jul 24, 2008)
New coach Pep Guardiola led Barcelona to a 6-0 friendly win over Scottish side Hibs here Thursday in his first match since taking over the Spanish side in June. . . . more . . .
Yakubu promises another goal spree (Jul 24, 2008)
Everton's Nigerian striker Ayegbeni Yakubu expects to terrorise Premier League defenders again this season after setting his sights on another 20-goal haul. . . . more . . .
Barcelona stands firm in Messi Olympic row (Jul 24, 2008)
Barcelona reaffirmed Thursday that it is not obligated to release Lionel Messi so that the Argentine striker can represent his national team at the Olympics next month as demanded by world football governing body FIFA. . . . more . . .
Portsmouth ready to tie up Gambia starlet (Jul 24, 2008)
Gambian teenager Omar Krumah is set to sign for FA Cup winners Portsmouth after impressing manager Harry Redknapp during a trial. . . . more . . .
Zenit fined for racist incident (Jul 24, 2008)
UEFA on Thursday fined Russian club FC Zenit St. . . . more . . .
Scholes plans to leave Man Utd in two years (Jul 24, 2008)
Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes has revealed he plans to spend just two more seasons at Old Trafford. . . . more . . .
Injured Bosingwa may leave Chelsea tour: Scolari (Jul 24, 2008)
Chelsea new boy Jose Bosingwa may be forced out of their pre-season tour after picking up an injury in his debut match, coach Luiz Felipe Scolari said on Thursday. . . . more . . .
Muntari 'to sign for Inter' on Thursday (Jul 24, 2008)
Italian press reports claimed that Portsmouth midfielder Sulley Muntari will sign for Inter Milan on Thursday. . . . more . . .
Liverpool sign French youngster Ngog (Jul 24, 2008)
Liverpool signed highly-rated French striker David Ngog from Paris St Germain for an undisclosed fee on Thursday. . . . more . . .
O'Neill won't spare Barry from the hate-mob (Jul 24, 2008)
Aston Villa manager Martin O'Neill has warned Gareth Barry that he won't protect the unsettled England midfielder from the hate-mob in Saturday's Intertoto Cup clash with Odense. . . . more . . .
Moynihan backs Ferguson for 2012 Olympics (Jul 24, 2008)
Sebastian Coe's drive to have Alex Ferguson lead a British football team at the London 2012 Games garnered support on Thursday from British Olympic Association chairman Lord Moynihan. . . . more . . .
Klinsmann takes first Bayern defeat in his stride (Jul 24, 2008)
Bayern Munich coach Jurgen Klinsmann shrugged off his first defeat in charge of the German giants when his team were beaten 2-1 in a pre-season game by Borussia Dortmund. . . . more . . .
Ronaldinho smiles again as Brazil gear up for Olympics (Jul 24, 2008)
A smile has returned to the face of superstar Ronaldinho following his transfer to AC Milan, Brazilian coach Dunga said Thursday as he prepares his young team for the Olympics. . . . more . . .
Lampard's staying, says Chelsea coach Scolari (Jul 24, 2008)
Coach Luiz Felipe Scolari insisted Frank Lampard was staying with Chelsea as reports broke that the club was set to make the midfielder Britain's highest paid footballer. . . . more . . .
Chelsea's Scolari rebuffs Fergie mind games (Jul 24, 2008)
Luiz Felipe Scolari refused to be drawn into a war of words with Manchester United's Alex Ferguson over the age of his squad, but insisted Chelsea's experience could win them the Premiership. . . . more . . .
Beckham won't break my record, says Shilton (Jul 24, 2008)
Peter Shilton has told David Beckham he will never beat his England appearance record and believes Fabio Capello's side are doomed to failure in their bid to win the 2010 World Cup if the midfielder is in the side. . . . more . . .
Sunderland sign Spurs' Tainio (Jul 23, 2008)
Sunderland completed on Wednesday the signing of Tottenham midfielder Teemu Tainio, with the Finland international's clubmate Pascal Chimbonda expected to follow shortly. . . . more . . .
Mutu staying at Fiorentina, says president (Jul 23, 2008)
Fiorentina president Andrea Della Valle insisted on Wednesday that star Romania forward Adrian Mutu will be staying at the club despite interest from AS Roma. . . . more . . .
Torino sign Milan's Abate (Jul 23, 2008)
Torino have signed AC Milan's Italy under-21 international Ignazio Abate under a shared-ownership deal, Italian news agency Ansa reported on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Brazil lack airport facilities for 2014 World Cup: association (Jul 23, 2008)
Brazil lacks the necessary airport facilities to host the 500,000-plus tourists expected to head to the country for the 2014 World Cup of football, a grouping of private aircraft owners said Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Bayern in the hunt for Euro flop Gomez (Jul 23, 2008)
Bayern Munich's chairman of the board Karl-Heinz Rummenigge said on Wednesday he will fight to bring Germany striker Mario Gomez from VfB Stuttgart to the German giants. . . . more . . .
Barca rejects FIFA statement on Olympics row (Jul 23, 2008)
Barcelona on Wednesday dismissed a FIFA statement calling on clubs to release players under 23 for the Olympics, saying it will not reverse its decision to prevent Argentine striker Lionel Messi from competing in the Games. . . . more . . .
Lamps on target as Scolari era starts (Jul 23, 2008)
Frank Lampard underlined his value to Chelsea with a spectacular long-range lob as the Luiz Felipe Scolari era got under way with a 4-0 romp against Guangzhou Pharmaceutical on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Ferguson challenges United's youngsters (Jul 23, 2008)
Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has challenged his young stars to build on their impressive displays during the club's tour of South Africa when they return to England. . . . more . . .
West Ham sign Swiss star Behrami (Jul 23, 2008)
West Ham said Wednesday they have completed the signing of Switzerland international Valon Behrami from Italian Serie A outfit Lazio for five million pounds (seven million euros). . . . more . . .
Johnson's Everton future in doubt (Jul 23, 2008)
The future of Andrew Johnson at Everton appeared in doubt Wednesday after he missed a pre-season friendly at Preston amid reports the 26-year-old forward is poised to join Fulham. . . . more . . .
Emre joins Fenerbahce (Jul 23, 2008)
Turkey midfielder Emre Belozoglu finally inked a four-year deal with Fenerbahce, the Anatolia news agency on Wednesday quoted the Turkish club as saying, two months after English Premiership side Newcastle said he could leave. . . . more . . .
Real Madrid coach wants to sign Eto'o (Jul 23, 2008)
Real Madrid's German coach Bern Schuster wants to sign Cameroonian international striker Samuel Eto'o from Barcelona, sports daily Mundo Deportivo reported Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Bayern's Ribery targets Champions League return (Jul 23, 2008)
Bayern Munich's French star Franck Ribery has targeted a September return date for the German giants' Champions League campaign as he continues his rehabilitation from ankle surgery. . . . more . . .
Chelsea's Essien hits back after Fergie jibe (Jul 23, 2008)
Michael Essien insisted Chelsea were the Premiership favourites after Manchester United's Alex Ferguson kicked off the pre-season mind games by casting doubt on their ageing squad. . . . more . . .
Ferguson casts doubt over Scolari and Chelsea (Jul 22, 2008)
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has warned Luiz Felipe Scolari that he faces a battle to inspire his ageing Chelsea squad to repeat the feats they enjoyed under previous Stamford Bridge manager, Jose Mourinho. . . . more . . .
Ferguson urges Foster to be patient (Jul 22, 2008)
Sir Alex Ferguson claimed Ben Foster will be rewarded with the England goalkeeper's jersey if he waits patiently for his chance at Manchester United. . . . more . . .
After quiet season, Henry's gunning for goals (Jul 22, 2008)
Thierry Henry has promised Barcelona fans that he's anxious to make up for last season's modest tally by scoring bags of goals in 2008-09. . . . more . . .
United youngsters see off Pirates (Jul 22, 2008)
Lee Martin netted a first-half winner for Manchester United as the Premier League champions' young stars overcame Orlando Pirates to seal a 1-0 win here on Tuesday. . . . more . . .
Werder Bremen in legal action against Olympic runaway Diego (Jul 22, 2008)
German first division side Werder Bremen have taken the fight to prevent their Brazilian star Diego from going to the Beijing Olympics to a sporting tribunal, the club said on Tuesday. . . . more . . .
NIreland striker Healy apologises for 'orange' gesture (Jul 22, 2008)
Fulham and Northern Ireland striker David Healy has apologised for making a potentially sectarian gesture towards Celtic fans during a friendly at Craven Cottage at the weekend. . . . more . . .
Barca's Messi stays in Scotland ahead of FIFA decision (Jul 22, 2008)
Lionel Messi, who has been called on to represent his native Argentina at the Olympics, remained at a Barcelona pre-season training camp in Scotland on Tuesday with the approval of Argentina's Football Federation, a Barcelona spokesman said. . . . more . . .
Egypt striker Zaki signs for Wigan Athletic (Jul 22, 2008)
Egypt striker Amr Zaki has joined Wigan on a one-year loan deal from Cairo's Zamalek, the English Premier League club announced on Tuesday. . . . more . . .
Ramires replaces Robinho in Brazil's Olympic football squad (Jul 22, 2008)
Brazil coach Dunga on Tuesday called up midfielder Ramires in place of injured striker Robinho for the Olympics. . . . more . . .
Blackburn Rover's Emerton signs new deal (Jul 22, 2008)
Blackburn midfielder Brett Emerton has signed a new four-year contract, the Premier League club confirmed on Tuesday. . . . more . . .
Cameroon midfielder Emana signs up with Real Betis (Jul 22, 2008)
Real Betis on Tuesday completed the transfer of Cameroon international Achille Emana from French side Toulouse on a five-year deal worth seven million euros (11 million dollars). . . . more . . .
Chelsea's Terry still haunted by penalty miss (Jul 22, 2008)
Chelsea captain John Terry admitted he was still haunted by his horror penalty miss in the Champions League final as he gears up for the new season here. . . . more . . .
Chelsea midfielder Essien inks new five-year deal (Jul 22, 2008)
Chelsea announced a fresh five-year deal for midfielder Michael Essien on Tuesday as the club's new era began to take shape. . . . more . . .
Chelsea deny Eto'o football transfer bid (Jul 22, 2008)
Chelsea on Tuesday denied making an offer for Barcelona striker Samuel Eto'o, a day after rejecting reports of a world-record bid for AC Milan's Kaka. . . . more . . .
Chelsea's Terry still haunted by penalty miss (Jul 22, 2008)
Chelsea captain John Terry admitted he was still haunted by his horror penalty miss in the Champions League final as he gears up for the new season here. . . . more . . .
Ghana captain Mensah signs for Lyon (Jul 21, 2008)
Ghana captain John Mensah has turned down the chance to play in the English Premier League in favour of an 8.4 million euro five year deal with French champions Lyon. . . . more . . .
Real seek injured Robinho's Olympic release (Jul 21, 2008)
Spanish champions Real Madrid said Monday they had asked the Brazilian Football Federation not to call up their striker Robinho for the Olympics in China next month because he is injured. . . . more . . .
Ferguson gives Ronaldo some fatherly advice over Real move (Jul 21, 2008)
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has claimed that Cristiano Ronaldo would be doing the 'worst thing' for his career if he succeeding in engineering a move from Old Trafford to Real Madrid. . . . more . . .
'Cannibal' Boulahrouz heads for Stuttgart (Jul 21, 2008)
Dutch international defender Khalid Boulahrouz is set to join Bundesliga outfit VfB Stuttgart, Chelsea announced on Monday. . . . more . . .
Leverkusen's Barbarez announces retirement (Jul 21, 2008)
Bosnian international striker Sergej Barbarez, who played for German sides Bayer Leverkusen, Hamburg and Borussia Dortmund, has announced his retirement, according to media reports here on Monday. . . . more . . .
Financial trouble may force Valencia to sell stars (Jul 21, 2008)
Valencia are considering selling some of their star players, including strikers David Villa who was the top scorer at Euro 2008 and David Silva, to balance the books, Spanish media reported Monday.