Archive soccer news from around the world
Bullard surprise in England squad for World Cup matches (Aug 31, 2008)
Jimmy Bullard has been a surprise call-up to Fabio Capello's England squad for next month's 2010 World Cup qualifiers against Andorra and Croatia on September 6 and 10. . . . more . . .
No Robinho and no points for Real (Aug 31, 2008)
Title favourites Real Madrid and Barcelona both slipped to opening day defeats on Sunday as underdogs Deportivo La Coruna and Numancia took the headlines. . . . more . . .
Lyon win derby clash but Bordeaux slip up (Aug 31, 2008)
Lyon joined Marseille at the top of the French first division on Sunday after a Karim Benzema special earned the champions a 1-0 win in the derby tie at Saint Etienne. . . . more . . .
First league win for Klinsmann as Bayern hammer Hertha (Aug 31, 2008)
Defending champions Bayern Munich got their first league win of the season at the third attempt to give Jurgen Klinsmann his opening Bundesliga victory as Hertha Berlin were humbled 4-1 on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Liverpool suffer Villa stalemate (Aug 31, 2008)
Rafael Benitez was left in no doubt as to the depth of ill-feeling he has caused at Aston Villa this summer with his failed attempts to lure Gareth Barry to Liverpool as his perfect start to the new campaign ended in a 0-0 stalemate at Villa Park on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Wright-Phillips makes perfect return to City (Aug 31, 2008)
Shaun Wright-Phillips celebrated his 8.5-million-pound return to Manchester City with a double in Sunday's 3-0 win at Sunderland's Stadium of Light. . . . more . . .
Ronaldinho dazzles but Milan stunned by Bologna (Aug 31, 2008)
Ronaldinho sparkled on his debut but could not prevent AC Milan slumping to a dismal 2-1 home defeat to Serie A newboys Bologna in their opener at the San Siro on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Berbatov could stay admits Ramos (Aug 31, 2008)
Juande Ramos has admitted Dimitar Berbatov could still be a Tottenham player when the transfer window shuts on Monday. . . . more . . .
Chelsea frustrated by Bent's smash and grab raid (Aug 31, 2008)
Chelsea were forced to settle for a frustrating 1-1 draw against Tottenham on Sunday as Darren Bent staged a smash and grab raid at Stamford Bridge. . . . more . . .
Newcastle move to keep Owen (Aug 31, 2008)
Newcastle United have offered am improved three-year contract to Michael Owen in a bid to keep the England striker at St James Park. . . . more . . .
Chelsea frustrated by Bent's smash and grab raid (Aug 31, 2008)
Chelsea were forced to settle for a frustrating 1-1 draw against Tottenham on Sunday as Darren Bent staged a smash and grab raid at Stamford Bridge. . . . more . . .
Smith delighted with "terrific" Old Firm win (Aug 31, 2008)
Rangers cruised to the top of the Scottish Premier League with a double from former Celtic player Kenny Miller helping secure a 4-2 win against their Old Firm rivals at Parkhead. . . . more . . .
Rangers on top after Old Firm victory (Aug 31, 2008)
Rangers cruised to the top of the Scottish Premier League with a double from former Celtic player Kenny Miller helping secure a 4-2 win against their Old Firm rivals at Parkhead. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo on track for September return from injury (Aug 31, 2008)
Cristiano Ronaldo believes he could be back playing for Manchester United by the end of September after completing his recovery from ankle surgery. . . . more . . .
Zabaleta signs up at Man City (Aug 31, 2008)
English Premier League outfit Manchester City announced on Sunday they had clinched the transfer from Spanish side Espanyol of Argentinian defender Pablo Zabaleta. . . . more . . .
Real Madrid lash out at Chelsea over Robinho (Aug 31, 2008)
Real Madrid lashed out Sunday at Chelsea over the English Premier League club's continued efforts to lure Brazilian striker Robinho away from the Spanish champions. . . . more . . .
Spurs sign Russia striker Pavlyuchenko (Aug 31, 2008)
Tottenham reached an agreement to sign Russia striker Roman Pavlyuchenko from Spartak Moscow. . . . more . . .
Old Firm debuts for new signings (Aug 31, 2008)
Celtic and Rangers go head-to-head for the first time this season at Parkhead on Sunday with both teams expected to hand derby debuts to some of their new summer signings. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo on track September return from injury (Aug 31, 2008)
Cristiano Ronaldo believes he could be back playing for Manchester United by the end of September after completing his recovery from ankle surgery. . . . more . . .
Keegan launches scathing attack on Arsenal's Nasri (Aug 31, 2008)
Kevin Keegan launched a scathing attack on Arsenal midfielder Samir Nasri following Newcastle's 3-0 English Premier League defeat on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Redknapp backs Defoe's England claims (Aug 31, 2008)
Harry Redknapp insists Jermain Defoe is in the right shape to perform for England in the forthcoming World Cup qualifiers after his two-goal display fired Portsmouth to a 3-0 win at Everton. . . . more . . .
Curbishley relieved as Hammers ease the pressure (Aug 31, 2008)
Alan Curbishley admitted he was a relieved man after West Ham's 4-1 win over Blackburn eased the pressure on the Hammers manager. . . . more . . .
Barry saga casts shadow over Villa Park clash (Aug 31, 2008)
Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez will lock horns with Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill on Sunday for the first time since the angry fall out over the future of Gareth Barry. . . . more . . .
Derby debuts for new signings (Aug 31, 2008)
Celtic and Rangers go head-to-head for the first time this season at Parkhead on Sunday with both teams expected to hand derby debuts to some of their new summer signings. . . . more . . .
Scolari reveals Chelsea's revenge mission (Aug 31, 2008)
Luiz Felipe Scolari has warned Tottenham that his Chelsea stars will be motivated by revenge in Sunday's London derby at Stamford Bridge. . . . more . . .
Mandanda saves keep Marseille top in France (Aug 30, 2008)
Marseille keeper Steve Mandanda made two crucial saves in the last five minutes to ensure a 2-1 victory at home to Sochaux, keeping them top of the French league championship on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Villa in goals again as Valencia start with a swagger (Aug 30, 2008)
Spain's European championship hero David Villa celebrated his contract extension at Valencia with a goal as his side routed Real Mallorca 3-0 on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Mourinho's Inter reign begins with stalemate (Aug 30, 2008)
Former Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho was left frustrated in his first Serie A match in charge of Inter Milan as the champions were held to a 1-1 draw at Sampdoria. . . . more . . .
Red-hot Arsenal gun down Newcastle (Aug 30, 2008)
Arsenal roared back to form after their stuttering start to the season by crushing Newcastle 3-0 on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Kilmarnock go top after Tannadice triumph (Aug 30, 2008)
Kilmarnock roared to the top of the Scottish Premier League with a clinical 2-0 victory over Dundee United at Tannadice on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Wigan off the mark as Hull stumble (Aug 30, 2008)
Wigan shattered Hull's dream start to life in the Premier League as Steve Bruce's side claimed their first win of the season with a stunning 5-0 victory at the KC Stadium on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Baggies frustrate old boss Megson (Aug 30, 2008)
Bolton manager Gary Megson suffered a frustrating day as his former employers West Bromwich Albion earned a 0-0 draw at the Reebok Stadium on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Betis in talks with Zaragoza over Garcia (Aug 30, 2008)
Spanish first division side Real Betis are in talks with second-division side Real Zaragoza over striker Sergio Garcia, the club's official radio station reported Saturday. . . . more . . .
2006 World Cup match was fixed, claims report (Aug 30, 2008)
The German weekly magazine Der Spiegel reports in Monday's edition that the 2006 World Cup knock-out stage match between Brazil and Ghana was influenced by an Asian betting syndicate. . . . more . . .
West Ham rout Rovers to ease pressure on Curbishley (Aug 30, 2008)
West Ham eased the pressure on Alan Curbishley with a 4-1 rout of Blackburn at Upton Park on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Spurs agree to sign Pavlyuchenko (Aug 30, 2008)
Tottenham reached an agreement to sign Russia striker Roman Pavlyuchenko from Spartak Moscow. . . . more . . .
Turkish delight for Boro as Tuncay foils 10-man Stoke (Aug 30, 2008)
A late goal by Turkish striker Tuncay Sanli earned Middlesbrough a 2-1 win over 10-man Stoke at the Riverside Stadium on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Defoe makes England case by shooting down Everton (Aug 30, 2008)
Jermain Defoe staked his claim for an England starting spot in next month's World Cup qualifiers with an impressive two-goal display in Portsmouth's 3-0 win at Everton on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Shevchenko hits back at Mourinho jibe (Aug 30, 2008)
AC Milan forward Andrei Shevchenko has hit back at Inter Milan coach Jose Mourinho's claim that the Ukrainian failed at Chelsea because he was too used to being pampered. . . . more . . .
Westermann heads Schalke top of the Bundesliga (Aug 30, 2008)
Schalke 04 went top of the Bundesliga on Saturday thanks to a superb header from Germany defender Heiko Westermann to seal a 1-0 win over VfL Bochum to knock Hoffenheim from top place. . . . more . . .
Hull sign McShane and bid for Campbell (Aug 30, 2008)
Hull City made a seven million pounds (8.6 million euros) bid for Manchester United striker Fraizer Campbell and signed Republic of Ireland defender Paul McShane on a season-long loan from Sunderland on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Menez to start on bench against Napoli (Aug 30, 2008)
AS Roma's new French signing Jeremy Menez will start Sunday's Serie A opener against Napoli on the bench, coach Luciano Spalletti said on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Trezeguet out of season opener (Aug 30, 2008)
French forward David Trezeguet will miss Juventus's Serie A season opener against Fiorentina on Sunday due to a knee injury, the club said on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Ballack in doubt for World Cup qualifiers (Aug 30, 2008)
Germany captain Michael Ballack is doubtful for next month's 2010 World Cup qualifiers against Liechtenstein and Finland because of a niggling foot injury, the German Football Federation (DFB) said on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Robinho's going nowhere, insists Real president (Aug 30, 2008)
Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon insisted Saturday that Brazilian winger Robinho would be staying with the Spanish side, despite the player saying he is still in talks with English club Chelsea. . . . more . . .
Ince set for mixed reception at West Ham (Aug 30, 2008)
Blackburn's Paul Ince admits his first trip back to West Ham United as a manager is the game of the season for him. . . . more . . .
Wenger's anger gets Arsenal firing (Aug 30, 2008)
Arsene Wenger might be one of the English Premier League's elder statesmen, but any thoughts that age had dulled his fierce intensity were dispelled at a stroke last week. . . . more . . .
Nigerian midfielder Etuhu signs for Fulham (Aug 30, 2008)
Fulham said late Friday they had signed Nigerian international midfielder Dickson Etuhu from fellow English Premier League club Sunderland for an undisclosed fee. . . . more . . .
Scholes suspended for opening Champions League match (Aug 29, 2008)
Paul Scholes is suspended for Manchester United's opening Champions League match next month after being sent off in their 2-1 European Super Cup defeat to Zenit St Petersburg here on Friday. . . . more . . .
Cologne defender taken to hospital after collapse (Aug 29, 2008)
Cologne's Turkish defender Umit Ozat collapsed during Friday's win at Karlsruhe and was taken to hospital as a precaution. . . . more . . .
West Brom snap up Olsson (Aug 29, 2008)
Former Sweden under-21 international defender Jonas Olsson has joined Premiership side West Bromwich Albion from Dutch club Nijmegen. . . . more . . .
Stoke snap up Sonko (Aug 29, 2008)
Premier League club Stoke signed Senegal defender Ibrahima Sonko from Reading on Friday in a two million pounds (2.4 million euros). . . . more . . .
Benitez buries hatchet with Capello (Aug 29, 2008)
Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez insists he has buried the hatchet with Fabio Capello over Steven Gerrard's groin operation. . . . more . . .
Wenger demands action against clubs in the red (Aug 29, 2008)
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger believes clubs who risk financial meltdown in the pursuit of success should be kicked out of Europe competitions. . . . more . . .
English clubs look to impress on UEFA Cup stage (Aug 29, 2008)
Everton will head up a raft of English Premier League clubs going into the first round of the UEFA Cup, hoping to end an eight-year wait to bring the trophy back to British shores. . . . more . . .
Berbatov could stay, says Spurs sporting director (Aug 29, 2008)
Dimitar Berbatov could still stay at Tottenham despite the Bulgaria striker's determination to join Manchester United, according to the club's sporting director Damien Comolli. . . . more . . .
Newcastle's Milner signs for Villa (Aug 29, 2008)
Aston Villa signed England Under-21 winger James Milner from Newcastle for an undisclosed fee on Friday. . . . more . . .
Derby's Mears in trouble after fleeing to Marseille (Aug 29, 2008)
Derby defender Tyrone Mears faces disciplinary action after defying the Championship club to go on trial with Marseille. . . . more . . .
Real to keep Chelsea target Robinho: press (Aug 29, 2008)
Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon has decided to keep Chelsea target Robinho at the club, a Spanish sports newspaper said Friday. . . . more . . .
Ferguson says Champions League is getting tougher (Aug 29, 2008)
Alex Ferguson insists Manchester United won't be favourites to win the Champions League this season. . . . more . . .
Man Utd striker Saha to join Everton (Aug 29, 2008)
Everton agreed to sign Manchester United striker Louis Saha for an undisclosed fee on Friday. . . . more . . .
Liverpool to sign Spain's Riera from Espanyol (Aug 29, 2008)
Liverpool are set to sign Spanish international midfielder Albert Riera from Espanyol, the Spanish first division side said Friday. . . . more . . .
Liverpool's new stadium delayed again (Aug 29, 2008)
Liverpool's plan to build a new stadium suffered another blow on Friday as the Premier League club announced the project has been delayed again. . . . more . . .
Olympic hero Zabaleta to join Man City (Aug 29, 2008)
Espanyol's Pablo Zabaleta, part of Argentina's Olympic gold medal-winning team, is to join Manchester City after the English club agreed to pay the eight-million-euro buy-out clause in his contract, the Spanish side said Friday. . . . more . . .
Celtic's Strachan upbeat over Champions League draw (Aug 29, 2008)
Celtic boss Gordon Strachan has said he is looking forward to another Champions League clash with old rivals Manchester United but he believes they will be even harder to beat than before. . . . more . . .
Bosnich makes comeback (Aug 29, 2008)
Disgraced former Socceroos goalkeeper Mark Bosnich will play his first professional match in almost seven years in the A-League on Sunday. . . . more . . .
No Ronaldo but Real ready for treble tilt (Aug 29, 2008)
Cristiano Ronaldo was supposed to be Real Madrid's secret weapon this season but the reigning Spanish champions must shrug off the disappointment of failing to capture the Portuguese sensation. . . . more . . .
Ince set for mixed reception at West Ham (Aug 29, 2008)
Blackburn's Paul Ince admits his first trip back to West Ham United as a manager is the game of the season for him. . . . more . . .
Everton manager Moyes filled with emotion (Aug 29, 2008)
David Moyes could be forgiven for feeling he has endured a whole season's worth of emotions during the opening two weeks of Everton's campaign. . . . more . . .
Wenger's anger gets Arsenal firing (Aug 29, 2008)
Arsene Wenger might be one of the English Premier League's elder statesmen, but any thoughts that age had dulled his fierce intensity were dispelled at a stroke last week. . . . more . . .
Bundesliga leaders Hoffenheim look to keep up early pace (Aug 29, 2008)
Shock early Bundesliga leaders Hoffenheim are looking for their third straight league win on Saturday when they tackle Bayer Leverkusen to continue their dream start to life in Germany's top tier. . . . more . . .
We're still the best, insists Ibrahimovic (Aug 29, 2008)
Inter Milan's star Sweden forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic says the champions are still the team to beat ahead of the Serie A kick-off this weekend. . . . more . . .
Ajax bid to bounce back, new challenge for McClaren (Aug 29, 2008)
While PSV Eindhoven target a successful title defence Ajax are out to revisit past glories while former England coach Steve McClaren cuts his teeth in foreign climes as the Dutch league kicks off this weekend. . . . more . . .
Klinsmann relishing Champions League foray (Aug 28, 2008)
Bayern Munich coach Jurgen Klinsmann said he was relishing his first foray into the Champions League after the German giants drew Olympique Lyon, Fiorentina and Steaua Bucharest in the group stages. . . . more . . .
Man City's late show steals UEFA Cup qualification (Aug 28, 2008)
Manchester City avoided a tragedy of Hamlet proportions against Denmark's Midtjylland on Thursday after a last-gasp penalty shoot-out gave the English side a UEFA Cup lifeline. . . . more . . .
Celtic star McDonald savours Battle of Britain (Aug 28, 2008)
Celtic striker Scott McDonald can't wait to savour the Battle of Britain atmosphere after his side were pitted against Manchester United in Thursday's draw for the Champions League group stages. . . . more . . .
Mourinho looking forward to Champions League opener (Aug 28, 2008)
Inter Milan boss Jose Mourinho cannot wait to get started after his side drew Germans Werder Bremen, Panathinaikos of Greece and Cyprus's Anorthosis Famagusta in Thursday's Champions League group stage draw. . . . more . . .
Dong released by United (Aug 28, 2008)
Chinese striker Dong Fangzhuo left Manchester United on Thursday after his contract with the European champions was cancelled by mutual consent. . . . more . . .
United drawn with Celtic, Torres in Atletico return (Aug 28, 2008)
Holders Manchester United were drawn with Scottish champions Celtic, Spain's Villarreal and Denmark's Aalborg in Thursday's draw in Monaco for this season's Champions League group phase. . . . more . . .
Davies signs Bolton contract extension (Aug 28, 2008)
Bolton striker Kevin Davies has signed a new contract that will keep him at the Premier League club until 2011, according to the club's website Thursday. . . . more . . .
Bayern bid farewell to Jansen, welcome Oddo (Aug 28, 2008)
Germany defender Marcell Jansen has joined Hamburg for a reported fee of eight million euros (11.8 million US dollars) and been replaced at Bayern Munich by Italian World Cup winner Massimo Oddo. . . . more . . .
Wright-Phillips rejoins Manchester City (Aug 28, 2008)
Shaun Wright-Phillips rejoined Manchester City on Thursday as the Chelsea winger completed his move to Eastlands for an undisclosed fee. . . . more . . .
Liverpool captain Gerrard to undergo groin surgery (Aug 28, 2008)
Steven Gerrard will on Thursday undergo surgery on a groin problem that will keep the Liverpool captain out for ten to fifteen days. . . . more . . .
Keane vows to help Chopra deal with "personal problems" (Aug 28, 2008)
Sunderland manager Roy Keane has promised to help striker Michael Chopra as he "deals with some personal problems". . . . more . . .
Shevchenko was value for money, insists Chelsea's Kenyon (Aug 28, 2008)
Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon has responded to accusations that Andriy Shevchenko is the biggest transfer flop in Premier League history by insisting the Ukraine striker was a worthwhile investment. . . . more . . .
Hargreaves to use Super Cup to get United career back on track (Aug 28, 2008)
Manchester United midfielder Owen Hargreaves wants to use Friday's European Super Cup clash against Zenit St Petersburg to kick-start his season. . . . more . . .
Liverpool captain Gerrard to undergo groin surgery (Aug 28, 2008)
Steven Gerrard will on Thursday undergo surgery on a groin problem that will keep the Liverpool captain out for ten to fifteen days. . . . more . . .
Fabregas's return to Arsenal energises Wenger (Aug 28, 2008)
Arsene Wenger believes the return of Cesc Fabregas in Arsenal's 4-0 Champions League rout of FC Twente signals the real start of his side's season. . . . more . . .
Kuyt's late goal clinches win for Liverpool (Aug 27, 2008)
Dirk Kuyt's goal three minutes from the end of extra-time ensured Liverpool progressed to the group stages of the Champions League at the expense of an unfortunate Standard Liege. . . . more . . .
Murphy helps save Fulham's League Cup blushes (Aug 27, 2008)
Fulham avoided a League Cup second round upset when Danny Murphy scored an injury time winner to see off League One rivals Leicester 3-2 on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Marseille muddle to a 2-1 victory over Brann (Aug 27, 2008)
French first division front-runners Marseille muddled into the Champions League proper here on Wednesday after an unconvincing 2-1 home win against Brann to go through 3-1 on aggregate. . . . more . . .
Fiorentina safely through to Champions League group stage (Aug 27, 2008)
Fiorentina qualified for the Champions League group stage for the first time since 2000 after a 0-0 draw with Slavia Prague here on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Gallas back in favour as Arsenal ease through (Aug 27, 2008)
William Gallas produced the perfect response to his critics as the Arsenal captain booked his side's place in the Champions League group stages with a rare goal in Wednesday's 4-0 win against FC Twente. . . . more . . .
Aguero drives Atletico to Champions League group stage (Aug 27, 2008)
Argentina's Olympic gold medallist Sergio Aguero powered a revitalized Atletico Madrid into the Champions League group stage with a 4-0 thrashing of Schalke 04 in the Spanish capital. . . . more . . .
Totti out of season opener (Aug 27, 2008)
AS Roma captain Francesco Totti will miss his club's Serie A opener against Napoli this weekend with an injured ankle, Italian news agency Ansa said on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Korean defender Lee joins Borussia Dortmund (Aug 27, 2008)
South Korea defender Lee Young-Pyo left Tottenham to join German club Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Villa to stay at Valencia in new blow to Real: club (Aug 27, 2008)
Real Madrid target David Villa, the top scorer at Euro 2008, has ended speculation about his future by extending his contract with Valencia until 2014, the Spanish first division club said Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Fowler refuses week-by-week contract with Blackburn (Aug 27, 2008)
Former England striker Robbie Fowler, a free agent after being let go by Championship side Cardiff City, has refused a week-by-week contract with Blackburn Rovers. . . . more . . .
Arsenal defender Senderos joins AC Milan (Aug 27, 2008)
Defender Philippe Senderos has left Arsenal for AC Milan on a one-year loan deal, the Premiership club said on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Strachan eyes Real Madrid clash (Aug 27, 2008)
Manager Gordon Strachan is hoping to come up against Real Madrid when the draw for the Champions League group stage is made on Thursday. . . . more . . .
Vidic denies criticising English life (Aug 27, 2008)
Manchester United defender Nemanja Vidic has denied launching a scathing attack on English life and the weather in Manchester. . . . more . . .
Kenyon expects Chelsea to seal Robinho swoop (Aug 27, 2008)
Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon dropped a hint that Robinho's transfer to Stamford Bridge is close to completion after admitting the Real Madrid winger will give the team an added dimension. . . . more . . .
Barry to stay at Villa (Aug 27, 2008)
Aston Villa midfielder Gareth Barry will stay at the Premier League club for the immediate future according to his agent. . . . more . . .
Ferdinand joins Sunderland (Aug 27, 2008)
Sunderland signed West Ham defender Anton Ferdinand for an undisclosed fee on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Shevchenko spoilt at AC Milan says Mourinho (Aug 27, 2008)
Jose Mourinho insists Andriy Shevchenko was destined to fail at Chelsea because the Ukraine striker was treated with kid gloves at AC Milan. . . . more . . .
Newcastle winger Milner hands in transfer request (Aug 27, 2008)
Newcastle winger James Milner handed in a transfer request on Wednesday, according to a statement on the Premier League club's website. . . . more . . .
I'm staying at Milan, says Kaka (Aug 27, 2008)
Despite recent newspaper claims in England that Chelsea have launched an 80-million-euro (118-million-dollar) bid for Kaka, the Brazilian superstar insisted Wednesday that he is staying at AC Milan. . . . more . . .
Spain extends transfer window (Aug 27, 2008)
Spain has followed in the footsteps of several other European countries and has extended the football player transfer period by one day until September 1, the Spanish Football Federation said Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Desired by Real Madrid, Cazorla sticks with Villarreal (Aug 27, 2008)
Spanish international Santi Cazorla, who was being chased by Real Madrid, said Wednesday he had renewed his contract with Villarreal. . . . more . . .
Maloney back for Scotland (Aug 27, 2008)
Shaun Maloney has been recalled to the Scotland squad for the World Cup qualifiers against Macedonia and Iceland. . . . more . . .
Premier League leads the way in rich league (Aug 27, 2008)
The English Premier League is by far the richest in Europe, according to Italian internet sports business company StageUp. . . . more . . .
Australia recalls Kewell for World Cup qualifier (Aug 27, 2008)
Socceroos coach Pim Verbeek named Turkish-based Harry Kewell in a 27-man provisional squad for his team's important World Cup qualifier against Uzbekistan on September 10. . . . more . . .
Parma sign Paloschi from Milan (Aug 27, 2008)
Parma have signed AC Milan teenager Alberto Paloschi in a co-ownership deal, the Serie B club said on its website on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Galliani admits Oddo departure possible (Aug 27, 2008)
AC Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani has admitted that Italy full-back Massimo Oddo could be on his way out of the club with Lyon a possible destination. . . . more . . .
Domenech denies World Cup qualifying points ultimatum (Aug 27, 2008)
Under-pressure French coach Raymond Domenech on Tuesday scotched rumours that he has been given a points ultimatum for next month's 2010 World Cup qualifiers. . . . more . . .
England's problems won't go away warns McClaren (Aug 27, 2008)
Steve McClaren has warned Fabio Capello that England's problems won't disappear overnight. . . . more . . .
Russian champions set sights on European Super Cup (Aug 27, 2008)
Reigning Russian champions Zenit St Petersburg were confident ahead of Friday's glittering European Super Cup clash with English Premier League side Manchester United. . . . more . . .
Bolton suffer as Premier League clubs stumble in League Cup (Aug 26, 2008)
Bolton suffered an embarrassing League Cup second round exit as Northampton won 2-1 at the Reebok Stadium, while West Bromwich Albion and Hull also crashed out on Tuesday. . . . more . . .
Ranieri satisfied as Juve coast into Champions League group stage (Aug 26, 2008)
Juventus cruised into the Champions League group stage following a controlled 1-1 draw against Slovakians Artmedia Bratislava on Tuesday. . . . more . . .
Barca through despite Krakow loss (Aug 26, 2008)
Barcelona made it safely through to the group stages of the Champions League despite losing 1-0 at Wisla Krakow on Tuesday. . . . more . . .
Juve coast into CL group stage (Aug 26, 2008)
Juventus cruised into the Champions League group stage following a controlled 1-1 draw against Slovakians Artmedia Bratislava on Tuesday. . . . more . . .
Brave Scots bow out of UEFA Cup (Aug 26, 2008)
Scottish minnows Queen of the South saw their UEFA Cup campaign come to an end on Tuesday in Denmark as they bowed out to FC Nordsjaelland in their second qualifying round, going down 2-1 on the night to lose 4-2 on aggregate. . . . more . . .
Everton sign Denmark's Jacobsen (Aug 26, 2008)
Everton manager David Moyes finally landed a new signing on Tuesday as Denmark defender Lars Jacobsen joined the Premier League club on a free transfer. . . . more . . .
Brazilian striker Ailton signs for SCR Altach (Aug 26, 2008)
Brazilian striker Ailton, a former leading goal scorer in the German Bundesliga, has signed for a year with SCR Altach, the Austrian club announced on Tuesday. . . . more . . .
No panic buys for Wenger (Aug 26, 2008)
Arsene Wenger insists he won't rush into the transfer market despite Arsenal's spluttering start to the season. . . . more . . .
Ferguson ready for Super Cup revenge (Aug 26, 2008)
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson will be motivated by revenge in Friday's Super Cup showdown against Zenit St Petersburg. . . . more . . .
Euro defeat won't affect transfer plans, says Benitez (Aug 26, 2008)
Rafa Benitez insists his spending plans will not be affected should Liverpool crash out of the Champions League in Wednesday's qualifying tie against Standard Liege. . . . more . . .
Real Madrid bid for Villareal's Cazorla: report (Aug 26, 2008)
Spanish side Villarreal have received an offer from Real Madrid for their attacking midfielder Santi Cazorla, who helped lead Spain to victory at Euro 2008, according to reports here on Tuesday. . . . more . . .
Bellamy not for sale, insist West Ham (Aug 26, 2008)
West Ham chief executive Scott Duxbury insists Craig Bellamy is not for sale after reports claimed Manchester City were set to bid for the Wales striker. . . . more . . .
Robinho set to leave Real: agent (Aug 26, 2008)
Robinho is closing in on a move to Chelsea after the Brazilian winger's agent admitted the Real Madrid star is about to leave the Bernabeu. . . . more . . .
Everton sign Denmark's Jacobsen (Aug 26, 2008)
Everton manager David Moyes finally landed a new signing on Tuesday as Denmark defender Lars Jacobsen joined the Premier League club on a free transfer. . . . more . . .
Keane ready to tie up Anton Ferdinand deal (Aug 26, 2008)
Sunderland manager Roy Keane hopes to complete the signing of Anton Ferdinand after revealing the West Ham defender will have a medical with the club on Tuesday. . . . more . . .
Benfica's Nelson signs for Real Betis (Aug 26, 2008)
Benfica's Portuguese defender Nelson Augusto Tomar Marcos has signed a five-year deal with Spanish outfit Real Betis, his Portuguese club said Tuesday. . . . more . . .
Czech international Baros signs for Galatasaray (Aug 26, 2008)
Czech international Milan Baros on Tuesday signed a three-year deal with Turkish champions Galatasaray, the club confirmed. . . . more . . .
Shevchenko leads late transfer merry-go-round (Aug 26, 2008)
Ukraine forward Andrei Shevchenko completed his move to AC Milan on Monday after passing a medical and his arrival is set to spark some last ditched transfer activity in the country. . . . more . . .
Arsenal, Liverpool ready to follow the money (Aug 26, 2008)
Five-time European champions Liverpool and 2006 runners-up Arsenal will Wednesday look to bolster their coffers by ensuring they reach the lucrative Champions League group stage. . . . more . . .
Carragher warns Liverpool against Liege complacency (Aug 26, 2008)
Jamie Carragher has warned that Liverpool could pay the ultimate price for complacency if they underestimate Standard Liege in Wednesday's Champions League qualifier second-leg at Anfield. . . . more . . .
Fiorentina know they still have footballing work to do in Prague (Aug 26, 2008)
Fiorentina know they still have lots to do to reach the group stage of the Champions League ahead of Wednesday's final qualifying round return at Slavia Prague even though the Italians carry a 2-0 advantage from the first leg. . . . more . . .
Senderos headed for AC Milan: reports (Aug 25, 2008)
Arsenal's Swiss international defender Philippe Senderos is set to join former Gunners teammate Mathieu Flamini at AC Milan, reports said in Milan and Switzerland late Monday. . . . more . . .
Fletcher seals win for United at Pompey (Aug 25, 2008)
Darren Fletcher was the unlikely goal hero for the second match in a row as Manchester United got their Premier League title defence up and running with a 1-0 victory at Portsmouth on Monday. . . . more . . .
Rivaldo to leave Greece for Uzbekistan club (Aug 25, 2008)
Brazilian superstar Rivaldo told a Greek radio station Monday that he is leaving AEK Athens and will be playing this season for a club in Uzbekistan. . . . more . . .
Reserves beckon for Berbatov (Aug 25, 2008)
Tottenham will dump striker Dimitar Berbatov in the reserves if Manchester United do not come up with the 30million pounds (42 million euros) they want for the 27-year-old Bulgarian striker who has handed in a transfer request to try to force a move. . . . more . . .
Real Madrid makes offer for Euro 2008 star Villa - reports (Aug 25, 2008)
Real Madrid have offered over 45 million euros (65 million dollars) for Valencia striker David Villa, the top scorer at Euro 2008 which was won by Spain, Spanish media reported Monday. . . . more . . .
Denmark's Jacobsen set to sign for Everton (Aug 25, 2008)
Everton are set to sign Denmark international defender Lars Christian Jacobsen on a free transfer, according the English Premier League side's website on Monday. . . . more . . .
Ramos wants quick end to Berbatov saga (Aug 25, 2008)
Tottenham manager Juande Ramos wants to get the unsettling Dimitar Berbatov transfer situation resolved this week, suggesting the Bulgaria striker will get his wish to move to Manchester United. . . . more . . .
Inter not yet playing in Mourinho mould (Aug 25, 2008)
Jose Mourinho said he has not yet imposed his style on Inter Milan despite making a winning competitive debut on the Serie A champions' bench on Sunday by beating AS Roma on penalties in the Italian Super Cup. . . . more . . .
Thaksin won't quit City claims chairman (Aug 25, 2008)
Manchester City owner Thaksin Shinawatra is committed to the club despite speculation over his financial muscle raised by corruption charges in Thailand, club chairman Garry Cooke said on Monday. . . . more . . .
Real Madrid win Super Cup with 4-2 win over Valencia (Aug 25, 2008)
Real Madrid won the Spanish Super Cup for the first time since 2003 with a 4-2 win at home over Valencia with goals by Ruud van Nistelrooy, Sergio Ramos, Ruben de la Red and Gonzalo Higuian. . . . more . . .
Juventus aiming for football encore at Artmedia (Aug 25, 2008)
Juventus are aiming for a repeat performance in the return leg of their Champions League final qualifying round tie against Artmedia Bratislava here on Tuesday after thrashing the Slovak title-holders 4-0 at home two weeks ago. . . . more . . .
Man City boss Hughes praises Richards' treatment (Aug 25, 2008)
The treatment of Manchester City defender Micah Richards by medical staff drew praise from manager Mark Hughes following their 3-0 victory over West Ham at Eastlands on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Real Madrid win Supercup with 4-2 win over Valencia (Aug 24, 2008)
Real Madrid won the Spanish Supercup for the first time since 2003 with a 4-2 win at home over Valencia with goals by Ruud van Nistelrooy, Sergio Ramos, Ruben de la Red and Gonzalo Higuian. . . . more . . .
West Ham accept Sunderland bid for Ferdinand: BBC (Aug 24, 2008)
West Ham defender Anton Ferdinand is Sunderland-bound after the London club accepted a bid reported to be approaching eight million pounds, Hammers boss Alan Curbishley said on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Mourinho starts Inter stint with Super Cup triumph (Aug 24, 2008)
New coach Jose Mourinho won the Italian Super Cup on his competitive debut for Inter Milan on Sunday when the Serie A champions beat Cup-holders AS Roma on penalties after a thrilling match ended 2-2 at the San Siro. . . . more . . .
Barcelona president Laporta survives vote (Aug 24, 2008)
Barcelona's under-fire president Joan Laporta will complete the remaining two years of his mandate after he survived a vote by the club's general assembly on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Impressive City win overshadowed by Richards injury (Aug 24, 2008)
Manchester City's convincing 3-0 Premiership victory over 10-man West Ham here on Sunday might have impressed Fabio Capello but Micah Richards' hospitalisation caused concern. . . . more . . .
Lille undone by latecomers Rennes (Aug 24, 2008)
Rennes were staring at what appeared to be certain defeat against Lille on Sunda