Archive World Cup 2002 News
Ibrahimovic cleared for Roma move (May 31, 2002)
Swedish striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic has been told he can leave Dutch champions Ajax after just one year. . . . more . . .
Dortmund land Frings deal (May 31, 2002)
German champions Borussia Dortmund have landed Werder Bremen defender midfielder Torsten Frings. . . . more . . .
Inter get Coco and Milan get Seedorf (May 31, 2002)
AC Milan have signed Clarence Seedorf from city rivals Inter with Italian international defender Francesco Coco heading the other way. . . . more . . .
Legal action dropped against FIFA boss Blatter (May 31, 2002)
The rebellion against corruption in FIFA is over after eleven executive committee members dropped a legal action against president Sepp Blatter. . . . more . . .
Uruguay: World Cup player by player (May 31, 2002)
Two-times champions Uruguay are back in the finals for the first time since 1990 and have a young squad this time around. GOALKEEPERS FABIAN CARINI Carini played in 19 of the twenty qualifiers to reach the finals and has been one of Uruguay's best players. . . . more . . .
Dyer fit to stay at World Cup say England (May 31, 2002)
England say Newcastle United midfielder Kieron Dyer is fit to play at the World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
World Cup: Republic of Ireland v Cameroon Preview (May 31, 2002)
Cameroon take their bow as African champions against the Republic of Ireland in Niigata. . . . more . . .
World Cup - France 0 Senegal 1 (May 31, 2002)
Senegal pulled off one of the great World Cup shocks in history and downed holders France 1-0 in Seoul. . . . more . . .
Germany: World Cup player by player (May 31, 2002)
The Germans have a great tournament record that has slipped a bit recently.
GOALKEEPERS
OLIVER KAHN
German goalkeeper bought by Bayern Munich for a £2 million record fee from Karlsruhe.
. . . more . . .
Cameroon: World Cup player by player (May 31, 2002)
The African champions with a very high reputation to maintain and are rated as a better team than today's winner Senegal. GOALKEEPERS ALIOUM BAKAR Vyes with veteran Jacques Songo'o to be first choice. . . . more . . .
Denmark: World Cup player by player (May 31, 2002)
Denmark start their World Cup campaign against Uruguay in Ulsan and here is an analysis of their squad.
GOALKEEPERS
JESPER CHRISTIANSEN
A relative unknown, Christiansen overtook Jan Hofmann in the running with Brondby's Morgen Krogh to clinch the third goalkeeping position but is not going to unseat to the senior players ahead of him.
THOMAS SORENSEN
Very highly regarded at Premiership side Sunderland and Peter Schmeichel has identified the brawny but agile defender as his natural successor in goal.
. . . more . . .
Republic of Ireland: World Cup player by player (May 31, 2002)
The Republic of Ireland's fractious build-up to the finals is now over as they play Cameroon but they are a man down as they enter the fray. GOALKEEPERS SHAY GIVEN Small goalkeeper who makes up for lack of height with excellent reflexes and positional sense. . . . more . . .
Saudi Arabia: World Cup player by player (May 31, 2002)
The Saudis are looking for their seventh straight win in competitive matches but Germany may prove too hard to beat. GOALKEEPERS MOHAMMAD Al-DEAYEA Al-Deayea is approaching his third World Cup finals and has won the Gulf Cup twice and the Asian Cup in 1996 with the Saudi side. . . . more . . .
World Cup: Germany v Saudi Arabia Preview (May 31, 2002)
It would be crazy to right off Germany's chances after a wild year for coach Rudi Voller's side. . . . more . . .
Eriksson talks up Hargreaves option (May 31, 2002)
Bayern Munich midfielder Owen Hargreaves could start for England in Saitama against Sweden on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Schneider says he has FC Barcelona offer (May 31, 2002)
German midfielder Bernd Schneider says he is considering a move to FC Barcelona. . . . more . . .
Voller surprised by prediction of German success (May 31, 2002)
Germany coach Rudi Voller says his side are ready to face Saudi Arabia tomorrow after their recent injury problems. . . . more . . .
World Cup: Uruguay v Denmark Preview (May 31, 2002)
Uruguay were the last team to qualify for the finals with a play-off win over Australia back in November and they will have a tight struggle against the Danes. . . . more . . .
Senegal: World Cup player by player (May 31, 2002)
Senegal make their World Cup debut and take on France in Seoul today with 22 players in their 23-man squad drawn from the French first division. GOALKEEPERS TONY SYLVA He was excellent in the African Nations Cup run to the final and he is now the first choice for coach Bruno Metsu. . . . more . . .
France: World Cup player by player (May 31, 2002)
Holders France start the defence of their World Cup trophy in Seoul against Senegal today and here is an analysis of their 23-man squad. GOALKEEPERS FABIAN BARTHEZ The star goalkeeper for Manchester United, Barthez is a French icon and a frequent fixture on the gossip pages. . . . more . . .
Vengeful Blatter guns for opposition (May 30, 2002)
FIFA president Sepp Blatter says his general secretary Michel Zen-Ruffinen will be sacked tomorrow. . . . more . . .
Djorkaeff set to replace injured Zidane (May 30, 2002)
France coach Roger Lemerre is likely to use Youri Djorkaeff in place of injured superstar Zinedine Zidane as the World Cup finals kick-off tomorrow. . . . more . . .
Juventus close in on £37 million Nesta (May 30, 2002)
Juventus are ready to pay £37 million to sign Alessandro Nesta from SS Lazio. . . . more . . .
Ireland go into finals one man short (May 30, 2002)
World governing body FIFA have refused a plea by the Republic of Ireland to add Celtic midfielder Colin Healy to their squad as a replacement for captain Roy Keane who was sacked last week. . . . more . . .
Chelsea: Geremi, Conceicao and Viana are coming (May 30, 2002)
Cameroon international Geremi is to join Chelsea after a fee was agreed with Madrid. . . . more . . .
Juventus v Inter for Kily (May 30, 2002)
Argentina winger Kily Gonzalez is again talking up a move to Italy with Juventus ready to make an offer for the midfielder. . . . more . . .
Beckham: "I'm ready" (May 30, 2002)
England captain David Beckham says he is fit to last ninety minutes against Sweden on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Ljungberg may miss Sweden game against England (May 29, 2002)
Swedish midfield star Fredrik Ljungberg has a hip injury and may miss the opening World Cup game against England in Saitama. . . . more . . .
United " a good option" says Roberto Carlos (May 29, 2002)
Manchester United are again linked with a move for Roberto Carlos says the Brazilian international. . . . more . . .
Unhappy McCarthy says he can "walk away" from Irish job (May 29, 2002)
Republic of Ireland coach Mick McCarthy says the week-long controversy over the sacking of captain Roy Keane has sapped his strength to continue in the job. . . . more . . .
Rehmer injury problem for Germany (May 29, 2002)
German defender Marko Rehmer has an ankle injury and may miss the opening World Cup game against Saudi Arabia. . . . more . . .
Blatter prepares to purge his enemies from FIFA (May 29, 2002)
FIFA president Sepp Blatter is preparing his hit list for revenge after a bitter election fight ended in his victory. . . . more . . .
PSV: Van Bommel and Hofland to Arsenal with Hiddink as new coach (May 29, 2002)
Arsenal are ready to confirm the signing of PSV Eindhoven pair Marc Van Bommel and Kevin Hofland with the Dutch club targeting Guus Hiddink to be their new coach. . . . more . . .
Veron considers Juventus offer (May 29, 2002)
Argentina play maker Juan Veron says interest from Juventus is an "honour". . . . more . . .
UEFA and Zen-Ruffinen prepare for Blatter's revenge (May 29, 2002)
FIFA general-secretary Michel Zen-Ruffinen says he will fight on against corruption in FIFA despite the vote to re-elect president Sepp Blatter for four more years in office. . . . more . . .
Ono is not ill say Japanese (May 29, 2002)
Japan deny that Feyenoord midfielder Shinji Ono has appendicitis and is out of the World Cup. 22 year old Ono has been ill with stomach pains but is in line to play in Japan's first game of the finals against Belgium on June 4th after the Japanese camp denied press claims that Ono was seriously ill. . . . more . . .
Blatter wins four more years as FIFA boss (May 29, 2002)
Sepp Blatter hammered his rival in the FIFA presidential election to win four more years at the head of the crisis-torn world governing body. . . . more . . .
FIFA: Four more years of Blatter's Inferno (May 28, 2002)
FIFA president Sepp Blatter is on the verge of four more years in power after surpressing critical views at this week's congress. . . . more . . .
Danes brawl after training ground water fight (May 28, 2002)
Two Danish players started fighting after squirting each other with water bottles at World Cup training today. . . . more . . .
Juventus go for Hamman as Roma take Davids (May 28, 2002)
Juventus have made another bid to sign German midfielder Dietmar Hamann from Liverpool. . . . more . . .
Beckham fitness boost for England (May 28, 2002)
David Beckham is back in training with England set to use him from the start of their World Cup campaign. . . . more . . .
Senegal deny Korean claims that Fadiga stole necklace (May 28, 2002)
Senegal's World Cup winger Khalilou Fadiga has admitted stealing a necklace in a shoplifting incident at the weekend says Korea's chief of security at the finals. . . . more . . .
Ortega wants English move agent tells Leeds and Villa (May 28, 2002)
Argentina play maker Ariel Ortega has given hope to Leeds and Aston Villa by claiming his transfer to Istanbul club Fenerbahce has yet to be completed. . . . more . . .
Morientes injured again (May 28, 2002)
Spain striker Fernando Morientes has a new injury problem after damaging an ankle in training. . . . more . . .
Babayaro back in World Cup contention for Nigeria (May 28, 2002)
Nigeria left back Celestine Babayaro has rescued his World Cup after arriving to train with the squad ahead of a deadline set to prove his fitness. . . . more . . .
Argentina to face Nigeria without Caniggia (May 28, 2002)
Argentina have ruled veteran winger Claudio Caniggia out of the opening World Cup tie on Sunday against Nigeria. . . . more . . .
Keane backs out of Irish return (May 28, 2002)
Roy Keane says he will not be playing for Ireland at the World Cup finals after negotiations failed to bring him back to the squad. . . . more . . .
AS Roma try to tailor transfer deal to fit Cisse (May 28, 2002)
AS Roma have offered Auxerre the chance to keep star French striker Djibril Cisse for one more season. . . . more . . .
Zidane: Two weeks out with injury (May 27, 2002)
France play maker Zinedine Zidane is to miss the opening World Cup game on Friday against Senegal. . . . more . . .
Inzaghi may only miss Italy's opener (May 27, 2002)
Italy striker Filippo Inzaghi should only miss the opening game of the World Cup against Ecuador with a knee injury picked up in the friendly win over Kashima Antlers in Tokyo yesterday. . . . more . . .
Nigeria want Ajax defender Kanu to replace Babayaro (May 27, 2002)
Nigeria are to drop Chelsea defender Celestine Babayaro from their World Cup plans if he misses today's deadline to join the squad in Japan. . . . more . . .
Portugal coach Oliveira: "Figo has no injury now" (May 27, 2002)
Portugal say Luis Figo is ready to play in their World Cup opener against the US on June 5th. . . . more . . .
Zidane injury saps French morale (May 26, 2002)
Zinedine Zidane has an injury after the narrow 3-2 win for World Cup holders France over co-hosts South Korea. . . . more . . .
Germany's Ballack: "Painkillers and me" (May 26, 2002)
German midfielder Michael Ballack says he is on painkillers to be fit for the World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
England steel themselves for Beckham disappointment (May 25, 2002)
England coach Sven Goran Eriksson says injured stars David Beckham and Kieron Dyer have to be fit by the start of the World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
McAteer knee relief for Irish (May 25, 2002)
Midfielder Jason McAteer has been diagnosed with bruising on his knee after a friendly win in Japan but the injury is not as serious as first thought. . . . more . . .
Mostovoi winning fitness fight for Russia (May 25, 2002)
Russian play maker Alexander Mostovoi is winning his fight to be fit for the opening World Cup game. . . . more . . .
Irish 22 hit by injuries to McAteer and Kilbane (May 25, 2002)
The Republic of Ireland have two serious injury worries after a friendly win in Japan. . . . more . . .
Swedes play down Ljungberg aggro (May 24, 2002)
Sweden coach Lars Lagerback says the fight between midfielder Fredrik Ljungberg and defender Olof Mellberg has done no lasting damage to his squad. . . . more . . .
McCarthy says he will quit if Keane comes back (May 24, 2002)
Republic of Ireland manager Mick McCarthy says political moves to try and bring midfielder Roy Keane back into his World Cup squad may see him quit. . . . more . . .
Troussier writes off Sweden friendly (May 24, 2002)
Japan coach Philippe Troussier says tomorrow's Tokyo friendly against Sweden is irrelevant. . . . more . . .
Battered England move to protect Owen (May 24, 2002)
England are to rest striker Michael Owen for their final friendly ahead of the World Cup finals as their injury problems grow with the loss of midfielder Danny Murphy. . . . more . . .
Cannavaro says his price is not right (May 24, 2002)
Italy defender Fabio Cannavaro says his price for quitting Parma AC is too high. . . . more . . .
Keane sacked from Ireland's World Cup squad (May 23, 2002)
Republic of Ireland Roy Keane has been dismissed from their Saipan training camp and sent home from the World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Captain Keane kills off Ireland career (May 23, 2002)
Republic of Ireland captain Roy Keane says he will quit the team after the World Cup finals a day after he attempted to abandon their training camp. . . . more . . .
Batistuta stakes Argentina claim with four goals (May 23, 2002)
Gabriel Batistuta staked his claim to start Argentina's World Cup campaign as their first choice striker with four goals against J-League champions Kashima Antlers 5-1 as a second half substitute. . . . more . . .
Emre wanted by Arsenal (May 23, 2002)
Arsenal have asked Inter to name their price for midfielder Emre Belezoglu. . . . more . . .
River agree fee to sell Ortega to Fenerbahce (May 23, 2002)
Argentine international Ariel Ortega is set to leave River Plate for Fenerbahce. . . . more . . .
Nesta angered by SS Lazio transfer flip-flop (May 23, 2002)
SS Lazio's Italian defender Alessandro Nesta says he is for sale despite claims he was staying at the Rome club from president. . . . more . . .
McCarthy: "Abuse" made me dump Keane (May 23, 2002)
Republic of Ireland manager Mick McCarthy says a massive row with captain Roy Keane made him dump the midfielder from his squad. . . . more . . .
Saudis name World Cup squad (May 22, 2002)
Saudi Arabia coach Nasser al-Johar has confiremd his squad to play in the World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Henry injury problem for France (May 22, 2002)
World Cup holders France are worrying that striker Thierry Henry has a mystery injury. . . . more . . .
FIFA crisis: Zen-Ruffinen slams Blatter bullying (May 22, 2002)
FIFA general secretary Michel Zen-Ruffinen says embattled president Sepp Blatter is taking revenge on staff at the world governing body over detailed corruption alegations made against the FIFA boss. . . . more . . .
Keane trains again after attempt to quit Ireland squad (May 22, 2002)
The Republic of Ireland say the rebellion by captain Roy Keane is over. . . . more . . .
Crespo moves to Spain soon says his agent (May 22, 2002)
SS Lazio striker Hernan Crespo is heading to Spain says his agent Gustavo Mascardi. . . . more . . .
French say Henry does not face Sunday fitness deadline (May 22, 2002)
World Cup holders France say striker Thierry Henry will recover from his mystery injury to play in next week's finals. . . . more . . .
Favourites Argentina name World Cup squad (May 22, 2002)
World Cup favourites Argentina have named their 23-man squad with Glasgow Rangers veteran Claudio Caniggi's inclusion confirmed. . . . more . . .
Turkey coach Gunes picks Izzet for World Cup (May 22, 2002)
Turkey coach Senol Gunes has installed midfielder Mustapha Izzet ahead of Tayfun Korkut in his 23-man World Cup squad. . . . more . . .
Kenedy dumped by Portugal after failed dope test (May 22, 2002)
Portugal midfielder Daniel Kenedy has failed a drugs test and been dumped from the World Cup squad. . . . more . . .
Russia name World Cup squad (May 21, 2002)
Russia coach Oleg Romantsev has named injured play maker Alexander Mostovoi in his World Cup squad. . . . more . . .
Fenerbahce make Almeyda offer (May 21, 2002)
Fenerbahce have offered Croatian forward Milan Rapajic as part of their deal to try and land Argentine midfielder Matias Almeyda from Parma AC. . . . more . . .
Cameroon start cash rows ahead of World Cup (May 21, 2002)
Cameroon's World Cup squad is due to leave Paris tonight and finally arrive three days late in Japan. . . . more . . .
Laudrup confirmed as new Brondby coach (May 21, 2002)
Danish assistant coach Michael Laudrup is to take charge at champions Brondby after the World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Radebe fit and back as captain says South Africa coach (May 21, 2002)
South Africa coach Jomo Sono says veteran centre back Lucas Radebe is fit and will be the side's World Cup captain. . . . more . . .
German injury crisis claims Deisler with Ricken on stand-by (May 21, 2002)
German have lost midfielder Sebastian Deisler from their World Cup finals squad after he injured his knee again. . . . more . . .
Dyer makes England squad ahead of deadline (May 21, 2002)
Newcastle United winger Kieron Dyer has been included in England's World Cup squad. . . . more . . .
Bohme and Ricken added to ailing Germany squad (May 21, 2002)
Borussia Dortmund midfielder Lars Ricken and Jorg Bohme of Schalke 04 have been drafted into the Germany squad after injuries. . . . more . . .
Liverpool line up Cisse for next season (May 21, 2002)
Liverpool's decision to to give up signing Nicolas Anelka is set to win the race to capture Auxerre's 22-goal star Djibril Cisse after the World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Brazil say Rivaldo is ready to play (May 21, 2002)
Brazil say FC Barcelona star Rivaldo is ready to get back into action after a recent knee injury. . . . more . . .
Saudis cancel Wednesday Jamaica friendly (May 21, 2002)
Saudi Arabia have cancelled a friendly set for tomorrow against Japan. . . . more . . .
Owen speaks of "pressure" to come (May 21, 2002)
Michael Owen says England can improve after their 1-1 draw in South Korea. . . . more . . .
Tired Tunisia axe Argentina friendly (May 20, 2002)
Tunisia have abandoned plans to play World Cup favourites Argentina on Wednesday night. . . . more . . .
Poland confirm World Cup squad (May 20, 2002)
Poland coach Jerzy Engel has confirmed his choice of 23 players for the World Cup finals with Liverpool goalkeeper Jerzy Dudek now an injury worry for the Poles. . . . more . . .
'Caesar' Blatter rages against 'Brutus' Zen-Ruffinen (May 20, 2002)
Embattled FIFA President Sepp Blatter says those who accuse him of corruption may be jailed if their claims cannot be proved. . . . more . . .
China squad named for World Cup (May 20, 2002)
Chinese coach Bora Milutinovic has named midfield play maker Yu Genwei in his squad for the World Cup finals despite a knee injury which has kept him out of action for five weeks. . . . more . . .
Van Gaal handed Rivaldo decision by FC Barcelona (May 20, 2002)
FC Barcelona president Joan Gaspart says new coach Luis Van Gaal will decide the future of Rivaldo and the club's interest in former star Ronaldo. . . . more . . .
Senegal World Cup camp chief commits suicide (May 20, 2002)
The Japanese official in charge of Senegal's training campo at he World Cup finals has committed suicide. . . . more . . .
Tunisia's Sallami to miss World Cup (May 19, 2002)
Tunisia have lost midfielder Oussama Sallami from the World Cup finals squad. . . . more . . .
Blatter: "FIFA's house is on fire" (May 19, 2002)
FIFA President Sepp Blatter has tried to refute corruption claims made against his regime in a 21-page report. . . . more . . .
Figo worries over World Cup fitness (May 19, 2002)
Real Madrid star Luis Figo fears he may miss Portugal's World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Cameroon name squad for World Cup (May 19, 2002)
Cameroon coach Winfried Schaefer has confirmed his squad for the World Cup finals and retained the players who became African Champions four months ago. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo says he will stay at Inter (May 19, 2002)
Internazionale president Massimo Moratti says Ronaldo is to stay at the Milan club for next season and the Brazilian striker has backed him up. . . . more . . .
Eight strikers but no Fonseca for Uruguay's World Cup (May 19, 2002)
Uruguay have dropped veteran striker Daniel Fonseca from their World Cup squad. . . . more . . .
Onigbinde stays with youth for Nigeria's World Cup squad (May 19, 2002)
Nigeria coach Adegboye Onigbinde has kept former captain Sunday Oliseh and striker Finidi George out of his World Cup plans. . . . more . . .
Recovering Rivaldo to get only limited action before World Cup (May 18, 2002)
Brazil say Rivaldo will be back in action next week after a recent injury. . . . more . . .
Spain see after shave bottle knock Canizares out of World Cup (May 18, 2002)
Spain goalkeeper Santiago Canizares will miss the World Cup finals after a bottle of after shave which fell on his foot caused cuts and tendon damage. . . . more . . .
Juventus: Chimenti in and Carini out (May 17, 2002)
Juventus are to sign goalkeeper Antonio Chimenti from Lecce which should release Uruguayan international Fabian Carini for sale. . . . more . . .
China's Fan Zhiyi wins top Asian award (May 17, 2002)
Chinese defender Fan Zhiyi has been named Asian player of the Year. . . . more . . .
Croatia coach heading back to Colo Colo (May 17, 2002)
Croatia coach Mirko Jozic is to quit after the World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Dugarry turns down City (May 17, 2002)
France midfielder Christophe Dugarry has turned down a move to Manchester City. . . . more . . .
Hiddink says South Korea need to toughen up (May 17, 2002)
South Korea coach Guus Hiddink has slammed his players' attitude towards the end of their heavy win over Scotland in Busan yesterday. . . . more . . .
Chelsea want Nakata and offer Petit to Parma (May 17, 2002)
Chelsea have offered French World Cup winner Emmanuel Petit to Parma AC to try and persuade the Italian club to release Japanese star Hidetoshi Nakata. . . . more . . .
England: "Beckham is fit", sort of (May 17, 2002)
David Beckham will be fit to face Sweden on June 2nd as England's World Cup campaign starts. . . . more . . .
Karwan injury blow for Poles (May 17, 2002)
Poland have lost midfielder Bartosz Karwan from their World Cup squad. . . . more . . .
Veteran Gamarra joins Inter defence (May 16, 2002)
Internazionale have signed Paraguayan centre back Carlos Gamarra on a free transfer. . . . more . . .
PSG land Almeyda (May 16, 2002)
Paris Saint Germain are to sign Argentina midfielder Matias Almeyda after the World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Lucio injury worry for Brazil (May 16, 2002)
Brazil are worried about a calf injury for Bayer Leverkusen defender Luci following last night's Champions League defeat. . . . more . . .
Ze Maria on way to Juventus (May 16, 2002)
Juventus are to sign Perugia midfielder Ze Maria. . . . more . . .
Germany add Worns to World Cup missing list (May 16, 2002)
Germany coach Rudi Voller has confirmed that defender Christian Worns will miss the World Cup finals with a knee injury. . . . more . . .
City ask Bordeaux for Dugarry (May 15, 2002)
Manchester City want France star Christophe Dugarry for next season. . . . more . . .
Oliseh to get World Cup reprieve (May 15, 2002)
Nigeria coach Adegboye Onigbinde may recall former captain Sunday Oliseh for the World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Costa Rica lose Parks from World Cup squad (May 15, 2002)
Costa Rica have lost defender Reynaldo Parks from their World Cup squad with the recurrence of a knee injury. . . . more . . .
Inter deny £40 million Nesta deal is done (May 15, 2002)
Internazionale have denied claims that SS Lazio centre back Alessandro Nesta has joined them. . . . more . . .
Mild injury blow for Sweden (May 15, 2002)
Sweden have seen midfielder Hakan Mild pull out of their World Cup squad with a ruptured achilles tendon. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo quizzed over FC Barcelona return (May 15, 2002)
Brazil striker Ronaldo refused to be drawn on claims that his former club FC Barcelona want him back. . . . more . . .
Irish lose Kennedy from World Cup squad (May 15, 2002)
Winger Mark Kennedy has been ruled out of the Republic of Ireland World Cup squad. . . . more . . .
Inter deny pay rift with Ronaldo (May 14, 2002)
Internazionale have denied their Brazilian striker wants to quit the club in a row over pay. . . . more . . .
Celta want Bielsa as new coach (May 14, 2002)
Celta Vigo have asked Argentina coach Marcelo Bielsa to take over after the World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
England: Gerrard out but Dyer given chance to recover (May 14, 2002)
Liverpool midfielder Steven Gerrard has confirmed that the recurrence of a groin problem willl see him miss England's World Cup campaign. . . . more . . .
Nesta suggests pay cut to stay at Lazio (May 14, 2002)
SS Lazio captain Alessandro Nesta says a pay cut may help him stay at the Rome club who are fighting hard to resist massive transfer offers from Juventus and Inter for the Italian international. . . . more . . .
FIFA crisis: "It's a set up" says Blatter (May 14, 2002)
FIFA president Sepp Blatter says he is not corrupt. . . . more . . .
Two injury worries for Sweden (May 14, 2002)
Sweden are likely to lose FC Copenhagen pair Magnus Kihlstedt and Tomas Antonelius with injuries. . . . more . . .
Radebe gets South Africa World Cup call-up (May 14, 2002)
South Africa have named their squad to play at the World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Cannavaro tries to kickstart transfer talks (May 14, 2002)
Italy and Parma AC defender Fabio Cannavaro says he is ready for any offers. . . . more . . .
Zidane says he will end his career at Madrid (May 14, 2002)
Real Madrid star Zinedine Zidane says he will retire when his contract with the Spanish club ends in four years. . . . more . . .
Newcastle rival Bayer for Serhat (May 14, 2002)
Newcastle United are ready to match Bayer Leverkusen's offer for Fenerbahce forward Sehat Akin. . . . more . . .
Portuguese pack midfield for World Cup squad (May 13, 2002)
The Portugal squad for the World Cup finals has been announced. . . . more . . .
Beckham says he is running again (May 13, 2002)
England captain David Beckham says he is running again after breaking a bone in his foot last month. . . . more . . .
Injured Armas out of US World Cup squad (May 13, 2002)
US midfielder Chris Armas is out of the World Cup finals squad after tearing knee ligaments in the 2-1 friendly win over Uruguay in Washington D.C. . . . more . . .
Juventus offer cash and Davids for Nesta (May 13, 2002)
Italian champions Juventus have offered cash and Dutch midfielder Edgar Davids to SS Lazio to try and tempt the Rome club to sell captain Alessandro Nesta. . . . more . . .
Poles arrange final warm-up game for World Cup (May 13, 2002)
Poland will play South Korean side Songnam Ilwha as their final preparatory game ahead of the World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Wenger stays in France frame (May 13, 2002)
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger says he may become France coach at the end of his current contract. . . . more . . .
Okocha says he has offers from Tottenham and Chelsea (May 13, 2002)
New Nigeria captain Austin Okocha says there is a "very strong chance" he will quit PSG to join Tottenham or Chelsea after the World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Baseggio adds to Belgian injured list (May 13, 2002)
Belgium's pre-World Cup injury list has grown again with midfielder Walter Baseggio dropping out of the squad. . . . more . . .
Spain to carry six strikers at World Cup (May 13, 2002)
Spain coach Jose Camacho has named his World Cup squad. . . . more . . .
Dyer may sue over tackle which ended his World Cup chance (May 13, 2002)
Injured England international Kieron Dyer is looking at legal action after a reckless tackle ended his chance of going to the World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Lazio: Nesta stays with Eriberto and Manfredini to join (May 13, 2002)
SS Lazio president Sergio Cragnotti has rejected a new offer for captain Alessandro Nesta from Juventus. . . . more . . .
Mpenza to miss Belgium's World Cup (May 12, 2002)
Schalke 04 striker Emile Mpezna has been ruled out of Belgium's World Cup squad with injuries. . . . more . . .
United show off Beckham's new contract to June 2005 (May 11, 2002)
England captain David Beckham has finally agreed a new contract with Manchester United. . . . more . . .
AS Roma eye Lovenkrands (May 11, 2002)
AS Roma want Glasgow Rangers striker Peter Lovenkrands. . . . more . . .
Knee damage threatens Dyer World Cup chances (May 11, 2002)
England coach Sven Goran Eriksson is set to lose Newcastle United winger Kieron Dyer from his World Cup squad. . . . more . . .
Juventus ready to land Cannavaro next week (May 11, 2002)
Juventus expect to sign Italian international defender Fabio Cannavaro from Parma AC next week. . . . more . . .
New injury problem for Gerrard (May 11, 2002)
Liverpool midfielder Steven Gerrard has limped out of today's Premiership home game with a recurrence of a groin injury. . . . more . . .
Croatia stick by class of '98 for World Cup squad (May 10, 2002)
Croatia coach Mirko Jozic has named his squad for the 2002 World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
ISL debt problem solved says Blatter (May 10, 2002)
FIFA president Sepp Blatter says an agreement has been reached over the world governing body's financial liability following the collapse of its marketing wing last year. . . . more . . .
Beckham signs tomorrow hope United (May 10, 2002)
England captain David Beckham is set to end the season for Manchester United by signing a new contract to stay at the club. . . . more . . .
Clement injury worry for Belgium (May 10, 2002)
Belgium may lose defender Philippe Clement from their World Cup squad with a thigh injury picked up in Bruges' Belgian Cup final win last night. . . . more . . .
FIFA crisis: Gang of Five sue Blatter for 'criminal offences' (May 10, 2002)
Five FIFA vice-presidents have started legal action against embattled FIFA president Sepp Blatter in Zurich. . . . more . . .
Young and old make England's World Cup squad (May 09, 2002)
Swedish coach Sven-Goran Eriksson has named Arsenal veteran Martin Keown with young players Joe Cole and Wes Brown in his 23-man squad for the World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Crespo calm after pointed words from Cragnotti (May 09, 2002)
SS Lazio president Sergio Cragnotti has used the confirmation of Roberto Mancini's return to the Rome club as coach to slam star striker Hernan Crespo. . . . more . . .
Rame talks up FC Barcelona move (May 09, 2002)
Girondins Bordeaux goalkeeper Ulrich Rame says he is close to a move to FC Barcelona. . . . more . . .
Vieira says he is staying at Arsenal (May 09, 2002)
Arsenal midfielder Patrick Vieira says he wants to stay at the London club after their double-winning season but has not mentioned new contract talks. . . . more . . .
China bring in Thailand for Saturday match (May 09, 2002)
China will play Thailand on Saturday in en emergency replacement for a planned game against Nigeria which was cancelled at the weekend. . . . more . . .
French give Zidane baby leave next week (May 09, 2002)
France star Zinedine Zidane has been given leave to miss next week's pre-World Cup friendly with Belgium as his wife is expecting a baby. . . . more . . .
Blatter unmoved by threat of legal action against him (May 09, 2002)
Under siege FIFA president Sepp Blatter says he is not worried about the threat of legal proceedings against him in a Swiss court alleging misuse of funds. . . . more . . .
Eriksson on England: "It's a very young squad" (May 09, 2002)
England coach Sven Goran Eriksson says his World Cup squad was effectively picked some time ago. . . . more . . .
Cameroon name first stage of World Cup squad (May 08, 2002)
Cameroon have named a 29-man squad to play in friendlies this month ahead of the World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Tired Senegal call off Guinea friendly (May 08, 2002)
Senegal have cancelled a friendly with Guinea due for Saturday after players arriving in Dakar complained of tiredness. . . . more . . .
Baggio: "What am I going to do now ?" (May 08, 2002)
Roberto Baggio says his future is uncertain after he was left out of Giovanni Trapattoni's Italy squad for the World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Madrid beat Japan 1-0 in low-key friendly (May 08, 2002)
A scratch Real Madrid team defeated World Cup co-hosts Japan 1-0 in the Santiago Bernabeu stadium. . . . more . . .
Italy's World Cup: no surpises and no place for Baggio (May 08, 2002)
Italy coach Giovani Trapattoni has left Brescia veteran Roberto Baggio out of his World Cup squad. . . . more . . .
United go back in for Ayala (May 08, 2002)
Manchester United have revived their winter interest in Argentine defender Celso Ayala at River Plate. . . . more . . .
Tanzi: "No offers for Cannavaro" (May 08, 2002)
Parma AC president Stefano Tanzi says he had has no offers for Fabio Cannavaro. . . . more . . .
Corruption writs heading for Blatter in FIFA civil war (May 08, 2002)
UEFA president Lennart Johansson is backing plans to take FIFA supremo Sepp Blatter to court for 'misuse of funds'. . . . more . . .
New Geremi move by Chelsea but Dalla Bona stays (May 08, 2002)
Chelsea have turned to Cameroon international Geremi after losing out on SS Lazio striker Claudio Lopez. . . . more . . .
Cisse hype adds new element to French World Cup plans (May 08, 2002)
French coach Roger Lemerre says league top scorer striker Djibril Cisse is a better bet for the World Cup finals than Nicolas Anelka "for personal reasons". . . . more . . .
Butt injury worry for England (May 08, 2002)
Manchester United midfielder Nicky Butt is England's latest injury worry just hours before coach Sven Goran Eriksson confirms his list of 23 players for the World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
AS Roma set up Doni move with Chelsea back in for Delvecchio (May 08, 2002)
AS Roma are set to sign Atalanta play maker Cristiano Doni with Chelsea keen to help finance the move with a new bid for Marco Delvecchio. . . . more . . .
Wanchope gets Costa Rica call (May 08, 2002)
Recovering Manchester City striker Paulo Wanchope has been named in Costa Rica's World Cup despite knee problems. . . . more . . .
Tudor ruled out of Croatia's World Cup (May 07, 2002)
Croatia have seen Juventus defender Igor Tudor ruled out of the World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
No suprises in Irish World Cup squad (May 07, 2002)
The Republic of Ireland have named their squad for the World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Uruguay to play in Singapore (May 07, 2002)
Uruguay have scheduled a friendly against Singapore for May 21st The South American side face holders France, Senegal and Denmark in the group stage of the World Cup finals and last week cancelled a visit to Thailand. . . . more . . .
French World Cup squad nears completion (May 07, 2002)
France coach Roger Lemerre has added 13 more players to a training camp this week bringing conformation of his World Cup squad ever closer. . . . more . . .
Slovenia name World Cup squad (May 07, 2002)
Slovenia have confirmed their squad for the World Cup finals later this month. . . . more . . .
PSG in Almeyda talks and Parma want Ogbeche (May 07, 2002)
Parma AC are in talks to sell Argentine midfielder Matias Almeyda to Paris Saint Germain. . . . more . . .
Uruguay hand Fonseca World Cup chance (May 07, 2002)
Uruguay coach Victor Pua has named a 27-man squad to play friendlies against the United States, China and Singapore with former AS Roma and Juventus striker Daniel Fonseca recalled. . . . more . . .
Atletico to sign Mendieta and Lopez with Simeone to follow (May 07, 2002)
Atletico Madrid have agreed the first stage of the purchase of midfielders Gaizka Mendieta and Claudio Lopez from SS Lazio. . . . more . . .
Leeds swap goalkeepers: Martyn for West Ham's James (May 07, 2002)
Leeds United have offered England goalkeeper Nigel Martyn to West Ham in a swap for David James. . . . more . . .
Veron stays say defiant United (May 07, 2002)
Manchester United say Juan Sebastian Veron is staying at the club. . . . more . . .
South Africa lose Bartlett for World Cup finals (May 06, 2002)
South Africa have lost captain Shaun Bartlett for the World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Voller confirms Germany's World Cup squad (May 06, 2002)
Germany coach Rudi Voller has named Sebastian Deisler in his World Cup squad. . . . more . . .
Claudio Lopez decision soon: Atletico or Chelsea (May 06, 2002)
Atletico Madrid are having further transfer talks with SS Lazio today to try and clinch moves for three players. . . . more . . .
Turkey name first stage of World Cup squad (May 06, 2002)
Turkey coach Senol Gunes has named a 28-man preliminary squad ahead of the World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Danes name World Cup squad (May 06, 2002)
Denmark have named their squad for the 2002 World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Ibrahimovic delays AS Roma transfer decision (May 06, 2002)
Ajax Amsterdam striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic says he will decide his future after the World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo: "So close" (May 06, 2002)
Ronaldo has returned to Brazil after Inter's title defeat yesterday. . . . more . . .
Juventus want to mark title win with Cannavaro coup (May 06, 2002)
Parma AC defender Fabio Cannavaro says he is leaving the club. . . . more . . .
Chelsea try pressing for Zanetti (May 06, 2002)
Chelsea have again asked Internazionale to name their price for Italian midfielder Cristiano Zanetti. . . . more . . .
Brazil's World Cup 23: "We must win" says coach Scolari (May 06, 2002)
Brazil coach Luiz Felipe Scolari has stuck to his guns and excluded veteran striker Romario from the World Cup squad. . . . more . . .
Ortega has interest from Leeds and Villa (May 06, 2002)
Leeds United and Aston Villa have both been watching Argentine winger Ariel Ortega. . . . more . . .
Nigeria cancel friendly in China (May 05, 2002)
Nigeria today cancelled a friendly against China on May 11th after sports minister Ishaya Mark Aku who was killed in a plane crash on Saturday. . . . more . . .
No surprises in Senegal World Cup squad (May 04, 2002)
Senegal have named the players that lost on penalties to Cameroon in the African Nations Cup final in February. . . . more . . .
Neville out but time may be on Beckham's side (May 03, 2002)
Manchester United have confirmed that right back Gary Neville will miss the World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
FC Porto to get Costa back from Charlton (May 03, 2002)
Portugal defender Jorge Costa is on his way back to FC Porto. . . . more . . .
Japan name squad to face Madrid and Norway (May 03, 2002)
Japan star Hidetoshi Nakata and Feyenoord midfielder Shinji Ono have been recalled by coach Philippe Troussier for a trip to Europe next week. . . . more . . .
Belgium coach Waseige names training squad for next week (May 03, 2002)
Belgium coach Robert Waseige has named 17 players to go to a training camp next week ahead of the World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
FC Barcelona try to beat Madrid to Crespo (May 03, 2002)
FC Barcelona want to beat Spanish rivals Real Madrid to Hernan Crespo. . . . more . . .
Beckham winning fitness race for World Cup (May 03, 2002)
An X-ray says David Beckham will be fit for the World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Blatter's FIFA regime slammed for corruption (May 03, 2002)
FIFA president Sepp Blatter is facing a massive rebellion among senior staff as they try and stamp out corruption in the world governing body. . . . more . . .
Beckham waits for latest injury news (May 03, 2002)
X-rays later today could determine if England captain David Beckham will be fit for the World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Tunisia's El Ouaer confirms retirement (May 03, 2002)
Tunisia captain and goalkeeper Chokri El Ouaer has confirmed his retirement. . . . more . . .
French tie up new Lemerre contract to 2004 (May 03, 2002)
France have secured coach Roger Lemerre for two more years. . . . more . . .
Nesta meets Juventus for talks (May 03, 2002)
Juventus were in talks today to try and finalise the transfer of SS Lazio captain Alessandro Nesta. . . . more . . .
Ecuador name World Cup squad (May 03, 2002)
Ecuador coach Hernan Dario Gomez has named his World Cup squad of 23. . . . more . . .
Ajax rebel Ibrahimovic gets World Cup call from Sweden (May 03, 2002)
Arsenal star Fredrik Ljungberg will start tomorrow's FA Cup final with a World Cup place booked. . . . more . . .
Ola added to Nigeria squad (May 03, 2002)
Nigeria have called up Chievo Verona defender Daniel Ola for the World Cup friendly against China on May 11th. . . . more . . .
Uruguay call off Thai trip (May 03, 2002)
Uruguay have abandoned plans to play Thailand in a friendly later this month. . . . more . . .
Onigbinde sticks to his guns with Nigeria World Cup squad (May 02, 2002)
Nigeria coach Adegboye Onigbinde has announced a provisional World Cup squad of 35 players as he fights to try and save his job. . . . more . . .
United want Thuram and Juventus want Scholes (May 02, 2002)
Manchester United want Lilian Thuram to help solve the club's defensive problems. . . . more . . .
Political in-fighting derails Nigeria's World Cup preparations (May 02, 2002)
Nigeria coach Adegboye Onigbinde is facing the sack. . . . more . . .
Croatia name squad for next week's friendly (May 02, 2002)
Croatia have named their squad to play Hungary next week in Pecs. . . . more . . .
Liverpool want Sedan's Diao (May 02, 2002)
Sedan say Liverpool want to sign Senegal midfielder Salif Diao. . . . more . . .
Bayer reject Nigeria offer for coach Toppmoeller (May 02, 2002)
Nigeria have failed in a bid to hire Bayer Leverkusen coach Klaus Toppmoeller for the World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Troussier angered by OM talk (May 02, 2002)
Japan coach Philippe Troussier has refused to confirm on an offer from Olympique Marseille for next season. . . . more . . .
El Ouaer says he will not go to World Cup for Tunisia (May 02, 2002)
Tunisia captain and goalkeeper Chokri El Ouaer says he will retire before the World Cup finals begin. . . . more . . .
Loss of Nowotny from Germany's World Cup confirmed (May 02, 2002)
Bayer Leverkusen defender Jens Nowotny will certainly miss the World Cup finals with torn knee ligaments. . . . more . . .
Baggio to stay at Brescia says his agent (May 01, 2002)
Roberto Baggio is staying at Brescia next season says his agent. . . . more . . .
Wanchope will be fit say Costa Rica (May 01, 2002)
Costa Rica striker Paulo Wanchope is on course to recover from a knee injury for the World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
AS Roma look to wrap up Polga signing (May 01, 2002)
AS Roma are set to finalise the signing of Gremio defender Anderson Polga soon. . . . more . . .
Ecuador beaten by Brazilian club side (May 01, 2002)
Ecuador lost 2-1 in Quito to Brazilian club Internacional in their latest World Cup warm-up game. . . . more . . .
Agents trying to bribe me says Nigeria coach (May 01, 2002)
Fiorentina players may mark the end of their relegation season by staging a short strike. . . . more . . .
Cisse in World Cup contention for France (May 01, 2002)
Auxerre striker Djibril Cisse is in France coach Roger Lemerre's World Cup plans after a call-up to join seven other players at a training camp in Tignes. . . . more . . .
FC Porto want Euller (May 01, 2002)
FC Porto hope to sign Brazilian striker Euller next month. . . . more . . .
