Archive soccer news from around the world
Charlton find cutting edge to see off West Ham (Dec 31, 2005)
Shaun Bartlett scored his first goal of the season to help Charlton end their dismal recent form with a 2-0 win over London rivals West Ham at The Valley. . . . more . . .
Chelsea maintain winning run against Birmingham (Dec 31, 2005)
Jose Mourinho ended the year with plenty to celebrate as Chelsea swept aside Birmingham City 2-0 at Stamford Bridge here on Saturday and so remained at the top of the English Premiership entering 2006. . . . more . . .
Mourinho orders lethal 2006 as Chelsea end year on a high (Dec 31, 2005)
Jose Mourinho ordered more killer instinct from Chelsea in 2006, despite a 2-0 win over Birmingham City at Stamford Bridge that saw his side end a title-winning year comfortably atop the English Premiership. . . . more . . .
Owen set for long lay-off after toe injury (Dec 31, 2005)
England striker Michael Owen could be out of action for up to 12 weeks after breaking a toe in Newcastle United's 2-0 Premiership defeat away to Tottenham at White Hart Lane. . . . more . . .
Premier League set to probe Ferguson comments: report (Dec 31, 2005)
Alex Ferguson's claims Bolton forced the postponement of their midweek fixture to give them more time to prepare for their match against Manchester United on Saturday is set to be investigated by the FA Premier League. . . . more . . .
Arsenal adrift after Villa draw (Dec 31, 2005)
Aston Villa and Arsenal have shared the spoils in a 0-0 draw at Villa Park that did nothing to help either side's aspirations. . . . more . . .
Wigan sunk by gutsy Blackburn (Dec 31, 2005)
Wigan's hopes of climbing back into a Champions League slot were soundly dashed by an enterprising Blackburn side who won 3-0 for one of their best results of the season. . . . more . . .
Harry magic steers Portsmouth to vital victory (Dec 31, 2005)
Portsmouth moved closer to safety as Harry Redknapp won his second match in his latest spell as Pompey boss with a 1-0 victory against Fulham at Fratton Park. . . . more . . .
Rangers end year on a high with easy home win (Dec 31, 2005)
Rangers ended 2005 with a convincing 3-0 win at home to Dundee United in the Scottish Premier League to cut the gap on the teams ahead of them in the table. . . . more . . .
United give Fergie birthday treat (Dec 31, 2005)
Manchester United marked Sir Alex Ferguson's 64th birthday with an emphatic 4-1 dismissal of Bolton Wanderers at Old Trafford that confirmed the veteran manager's belief that his side can still play a major role in this season's Premiership title race. . . . more . . .
Maniche is perfect for Chelsea, says Mourinho (Dec 31, 2005)
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho said Dynamo Moscow's Portuguese midfielder Maniche, whom he coached at Benfica and FC Porto, would be perfect for the London-based club. . . . more . . .
Crouch helps Liverpool finish 2005 in style (Dec 31, 2005)
Peter Crouch's fifth goal in five Premiership games earned Liverpool a hard-fought 1-0 win over West Bromwich Albion at Anfield and left Rafael Benitez within touching distance of re-writing the Merseyside club's record books. . . . more . . .
Owen downplays World Cup concerns after injury (Dec 31, 2005)
England striker Michael Owen moved to calm fears about his World Cup availability after breaking a toe in Newcastle's 2-0 Premiership defeat away to Tottenham at White Hart Lane. . . . more . . .
Premier League set to probe Ferguson comments (Dec 31, 2005)
Alex Ferguson's claims Bolton forced the postponement of their midweek fixture to give them more time to prepare for their match against Manchester United on Saturday is set to be investigated by the FA Premier League. . . . more . . .
United agree seven-million-pound deal for Vidic (Dec 30, 2005)
Manchester United have agreed a deal to sign Serbia and Montenegro defender Nemanja Vidic from Spartak Moscow, the English Premiership giants announced. . . . more . . .
WBA turn down Earnshaw transfer request (Dec 30, 2005)
West Bromwich Albion's record signing Robert Earnshaw has had his transger request turned down by manager Bryan Robson. . . . more . . .
Ferguson hits out at Vieira (Dec 30, 2005)
Sir Alex Ferguson has launched a withering attack on former Arsenal skipper Patrick Vieira after the Frenchman claimed Ruud van Nistelrooy was "a cheat and a coward." . . . more . . .
United agree deal for Vidic (Dec 30, 2005)
Manchester United have agreed a deal to sign Serbia and Montenegro defender Nemanja Vidic from Spartak Moscow, the English Premiership giants announced. . . . more . . .
Injured Ronaldo to miss fortnight (Dec 30, 2005)
Brazilian striker Ronaldo will be out of action for up to a fortnight, his club Real Madrid said, a day after the World Cup winner injured his right leg in his first training session following the winter break. . . . more . . .
Just the beginning for Chelsea says Mourinho (Dec 30, 2005)
Chelsea still have a long way to go before they can truly start comparing themselves to Alex Ferguson's Manchester Unted, manager Jose Mourinho said. . . . more . . .
Time for action on football fortunes, says GB minister (Dec 30, 2005)
British Sports Minister Richard Caborn has called for the imposition of a salary cap in European football to combat spiralling costs. . . . more . . .
Injury-free Gerrard looking for more goals (Dec 30, 2005)
England midfielder Steven Gerrard puts his goalscoring exploits for Liverpool this season down to the fact he has been injury-free. . . . more . . .
Derby goal is sweetest feeling for Crouch (Dec 30, 2005)
Liverpool striker Peter Crouch said that scoring in the 3-1 derby win against Everton was his sweetest moment so far in his Anfield career. . . . more . . .
Van Nistelrooy takes aim at Bolton (Dec 30, 2005)
Dutch striker Ruud van Nistelrooy is determined to take out Manchester United's frustration at dropping valuable points in midweek on Bolton when the Lancashire club visit Old Trafford on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Cisse happy at Liverpool (Dec 30, 2005)
French striker Djibril Cisse hit back at rumours that he will quit European champions Liverpool in the January transfer window. . . . more . . .
Morocco part company with Troussier after two months (Dec 30, 2005)
Widely-travelled coach Philippe Troussier had his contract with the Moroccan national team terminated after only two months in charge, the country's football association said. . . . more . . .
Wenger demands Toure and Eboue delay Egypt departure (Dec 30, 2005)
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger wants his Cote d'Ivoire defenders Kolo Toure and Emmanuel Eboue to delay their departures for the African Nations Cup by more than a week. . . . more . . .
Argentine midfielder Romagnoli joins Sporting on loan (Dec 30, 2005)
Argentine midfielder Leandro Romagnoli has joined Sporting Lisbon after the Portuguese first division side agreed a one and a half year loan deal with Mexican side Veracruz, the club said. . . . more . . .
Zidane ponders retirement after World Cup (Dec 30, 2005)
French international skipper Zinedine Zidane is considering quitting the game after next summer's World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Riera eyes Manchester City move (Dec 30, 2005)
Espanyol midfielder Albert Riera said he was interested in a loan move to English Premiership side Manchester City, dubbing the possibility "an interesting offer, though nothing has materialised yet." . . . more . . .
Jeffers to rejoin Charlton (Dec 29, 2005)
England striker Francis Jeffers is set to return to Charlton in the English Premiership after a failing to clinch a permanent move to Rangers in Scotland. . . . more . . .
Bowyer red card appeal turned down (Dec 29, 2005)
Newcastle United midfielder Lee Bowyer's claim for wrongful dismissal has been rejected by a Football Association (FA) disciplinary commission, the governing body announced. . . . more . . .
LuaLua in trouble for referee remarks (Dec 29, 2005)
Portsmouth striker Lomana LuaLua has been charged with improper conduct for disparaging comments he made about referee Uriah Rennie after the defeat by Tottenham on December 12. . . . more . . .
Bolton target Japan's Ono (Dec 29, 2005)
Bolton manager Sam Allardyce revealed his interest in signing Japanese midfielder Shinji Ono from Dutch club Feyenoord where the player's contract expires at the end of the season. . . . more . . .
Di Stefano recovering after heart surgery (Dec 29, 2005)
Real Madrid legend Alfredo Di Stefano was responding well to treatment in hospital in Valencia the day after undergoing a major heart operation, his doctors said. . . . more . . .
Redknapp defiant after Arsenal debacle (Dec 29, 2005)
Portsmouth manager Harry Redknapp emerged from a 4-0 defeat away to Arsenal insisting his side could still avoid relegation from the English Premiership and dropping a broad hint that new faces would be arriving at Fratton Park in the January transfer window. . . . more . . .
Great to be back, says Solskjaer (Dec 29, 2005)
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has revealed his relief after finally putting an end to his injury nightmare by returning to the Manchester United line-up for the first time in 19 months. . . . more . . .
Derby goal is sweetest feeling for Crouch (Dec 29, 2005)
Liverpool striker Peter Crouch said that scoring in the 3-1 derby win against Everton was his sweetest moment so far in his Anfield career. . . . more . . .
Reyna out with broken ankle (Dec 29, 2005)
US skipper Claudio Reyna will be out for at least six weeks to undergo surgery on a broken ankle sustained while playing for Manchester City in the English Premiership. . . . more . . .
Friendship the key says Mourinho as Chelsea extend lead (Dec 29, 2005)
Jose Mourinho hailed the spirit of his side as champions Chelsea put the absence of Frank Lampard to one side to win 1-0 at Manchester City and stretch their advantage at the top of the Premiership table to 11 points. . . . more . . .
Cole fuels Chelsea title push (Dec 29, 2005)
Joe Cole helped Chelsea extend their lead at the top of the Premiership to 11 points by scoring the winner in a hard-fought 1-0 win away to Manchester City. . . . more . . .
Ferguson backs Scholes to make double-figure goal tally (Dec 28, 2005)
Alex Ferguson has backed Manchester United stalwart Paul Scholes to notch up his usual double-figure goal tally this season. . . . more . . .
Fulham and Villa share points in six-goal thriller (Dec 28, 2005)
Brian McBride and Liam Ridgewell scored two goals apiece as Fulham and Aston Villa shared the spoils in a six-goal thriller at Craven Cottage. . . . more . . .
Injured Koller to be fit for World Cup (Dec 28, 2005)
Borussia Dortmund's Czech Republic international striker Jan Koller said he should be fit for next year's World Cup in Germany, the Sport newspaper reported. . . . more . . .
Bruce and Moyes escape FA action (Dec 28, 2005)
Birmingham manager Steve Bruce and Everton boss David Moyes have escaped censure by the Football Association (FA) after they each criticized referees on Boxing Day. . . . more . . .
Di Stefano undergoes by-pass surgery (Dec 28, 2005)
Real Madrid legend Alfredo Di Stefano has undergone by-pass surgery at Valencia's La Fe hospital where the 79-year-old is being treated since suffering a heart attack on Christmas Eve. . . . more . . .
Mystery surrounds high Vidic fee (Dec 28, 2005)
Mystery surrounds the high fee of new Manchester United recruit Nemanja Vidic who could complete his move from Spartak Moscow once the winter transfer window opens on January 1. . . . more . . .
Two more arrested in Vietnam football scandal (Dec 28, 2005)
Two more Vietnamese footballers have been arrested, bringing to four the number detained over allegations of match-fixing in the recent Southeast Asian games, an official said. . . . more . . .
Henry brace fires resurgent Gunners (Dec 28, 2005)
Arsenal thrashed struggling Portsmouth 4-0 at Highbury, all the goals coming in the first-half, as the Gunners' post-Christmas revival continued. . . . more . . .
Pandiani frustrates United (Dec 28, 2005)
Walter Pandiani's seemingly final act in a Birmingham shirt saw him score the late equaliser that secured his struggling side side a much-needed point against Manchester United in a 2-2 draw at St Andrews. . . . more . . .
Liverpool maintain run against nine-man Everton (Dec 28, 2005)
Liverpool's astonishing domestic revival continued as the European champions secured a 3-1 victory over struggling neighbours Everton, who finished a bruising encounter with nine men after Phil Neville and Mikel Arteta were both sent-off. . . . more . . .
Spurs great Ditchburn dies (Dec 28, 2005)
Former Tottenham and England goalkeeper Ted Ditchburn has died aged 84, it was announced. . . . more . . .
Mourinho apologises for being arrogant (Dec 28, 2005)
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has apologised for being arrogant in his approach to managing Chelsea in an FHM magazine interview reproduced in Britain's Sun newspaper. . . . more . . .
Big Ron returns to professional football (Dec 28, 2005)
Ron Atkinson has made a dramatic return to professional football to work with Swindon's black manager Iffy Onuora. . . . more . . .
Kanu brace sinks Tottenham (Dec 28, 2005)
Nigeria international Nwankwo Kanu scored a brace to inspire West Brom to a 2-0 victory against high-flying Tottenham at a freezing Hawthorns on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Wigan keep up winning ways as Hammers slump (Dec 28, 2005)
Wigan Athletic's dynamic duo Jason Roberts and Henri Camara continued their impressive partnership with a goal each as the Latics beat West Ham United 2-0 at Upton Park. . . . more . . .
Newcastle appeal Bowyer red card (Dec 28, 2005)
Newcastle have appealed against Lee Bowyer's red card in their December 26 Premiership defeat at Liverpool. . . . more . . .
Cole warms Chelsea hearts against City (Dec 28, 2005)
It took a scruffy 79th-minute winner from Joe Cole to end Manchester City's resistance, but champions Chelsea recorded their seventh successive Premiership victory to move 11 points clear at the top of the Premiership. . . . more . . .
Weather puts paid to Bolton-Boro match (Dec 28, 2005)
Bolton's Premiership match at home to Middlesbrough has been postponed because of a failure in the undersoil heating at the Reebok Stadium which left the pitch frozen. . . . more . . .
Larsson to leave Barcelona next summer (Dec 27, 2005)
Striker Henrik Larsson is leaving FC Barcelona in the summer of 2006 to return to his native Sweden, he said in an interview. . . . more . . .
PSG coach Fournier sacked (Dec 27, 2005)
Paris Saint Germain have sacked their coach Laurent Fournier and replaced him with former Sochaux boss Guy Lacombe. . . . more . . .
Souness refuses to back Bowyer after horror tackle (Dec 27, 2005)
Newcastle's Lee Bowyer is unlikely to get the backing of his manager Graeme Souness if and when the Football Association investigates the midfielder's fourth red card in just over a year. . . . more . . .
Japan striker Oguro signs up with Japanese-owned Grenoble (Dec 27, 2005)
Japan's international striker Masashi Oguro has bought a French dictionary in preparation for his debut with Grenoble. . . . more . . .
Newcastle's Taylor set for shoulder surgery (Dec 27, 2005)
Newcastle United defender Steven Taylor is to undergo surgery that will keep him out of action for up to three months after he aggravated an existing shoulder injury on his return to the first-team in Monday's 2-0 Premiership defeat away to Liverpool at Anfield. . . . more . . .
Essien and Carvalho to miss Chelsea trip (Dec 27, 2005)
English Premiership champions Chelsea are set to be without both Michael Essien and Ricardo Carvalho for Wednesday's trip to Manchester City. . . . more . . .
Baros hands Villa three points against Everton (Dec 26, 2005)
A blatant Milan Baros handball, missed by referee Mike Riley, helped Aston Villa to a vital 4-0 victory against fellow strugglers Everton at Villa Park. . . . more . . .
Crespo late show sees off Fulham (Dec 26, 2005)
Hernan Crespo netted the winner for Chelsea after Fulham gave them a fright in the champions' 3-2 derby win at Stamford Bridge. . . . more . . .
United keep up title push against Baggies (Dec 26, 2005)
Manchester United, with first-half goals from the revitalized Paul Scholes and Rio Ferdinand, maintained their challenge to Premiership leaders Chelsea with a comfortable 3-0 victory over West Bromwich Albion at Old Trafford. . . . more . . .
Wigan in seventh heaven after Christmas thriller (Dec 26, 2005)
Wigan nicked the three points after a seven-goal Christmas cracker against Manchester City at the JJB Stadium. . . . more . . .
Crespo keeps Chelsea on course (Dec 26, 2005)
Hernan Crespo scored the decisive goal as Premiership champions Chelsea overcame a spirited Fulham 3-2 in west London derby to make it six league wins in a row. . . . more . . .
Keane spurs Tottenham to victory (Dec 26, 2005)
Robbie Keane set Tottenham on course for a 2-0 win over Birmingham at White Hart Lane that consolidated his side's push for a Champions League place. . . . more . . .
Battling West Ham clinch point at 10-man Portsmouth (Dec 26, 2005)
West Ham manager Alan Pardew was delighted after his injury-hit team battled back from a goal down to take a point in a 1-1 draw with 10-man Portsmouth at Fratton Park. . . . more . . .
Liverpool march on as Owen endures unhappy return (Dec 26, 2005)
Peter Crouch helped ruin Michael Owen's Anfield return as Liverpool coasted to an eighth successive Premiership win with a 2-0 win over 10-man Newcastle United. . . . more . . .
We'll bounce back in 2006 says Ferguson (Dec 26, 2005)
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has dismissed speculation about his future and promised that 2006 will be a year in which the club will be reunited with success. . . . more . . .
Nakamura strike gives Celtic vital win (Dec 26, 2005)
A brilliant last gasp goal by Shunsuke Nakamura gave Celtic a 2-1 win at home to Livingston in the Scottish Premier League. . . . more . . .
Blackburn take points in smash and grab at Boro (Dec 26, 2005)
Blackburn gained their second win in a week away to Middlesbrough with a 2-0 victory at the Riverside thanks to a brace from Shefki Kuqi. . . . more . . .
Bruce blasts referee after Spurs defeat (Dec 26, 2005)
Birmingham manager Steve Bruce accused referee Phil Dowd of playing a decisive role in his side's 2-0 away defeat against Tottenham which left the visitors mired in the relegation zone. . . . more . . .
Reyes fires Gunners to victory (Dec 26, 2005)
Arsenal returned to winning ways defeating Charlton Athletic 1-0 away in an action packed London derby thanks to a second-half goal from Jose Antonio Reyes. . . . more . . .
Newcastle chief scoffs at Benitez claims on Owen (Dec 26, 2005)
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez did everything but his best to re-sign England striker Michael Owen from Real Madrid as was claimed, said Newcastle chairman Freddy Shepherd. . . . more . . .
Toppmoller has Georgia on his mind (Dec 26, 2005)
Former Bayer Leverkusen and SV Hamburg coach Klaus Toppmoller is set to sign a two-year contract to coach Georgia's national team. . . . more . . .
Robson curses his luck as United press on (Dec 26, 2005)
Bryan Robson, the West Bromwich Albion manager, bemoaned his team's bad fortune - and the helping hand of Wayne Rooney - as he endured a 3-0 defeat on his return to Old Trafford and former club Manchester United. . . . more . . .
Liverpool duo risk FA probe after fiery Newcastle encounter (Dec 26, 2005)
Liverpool striker Peter Crouch and midfielder Steven Gerrard could both have action taken against them by the Football Association (FA) after Michael Owen's return to Anfield descended into an ugly brawl. . . . more . . .
Strachan calls on Celtic to get tough (Dec 26, 2005)
Celtic manager Gordon Strachan has called on his players to get tough after another disappointing performance in the Scottish Premier League. . . . more . . .
Sven feared for England's World Cup campaign after Danish roasting (Dec 25, 2005)
Sven-Goran Eriksson said he feared England would fail to qualify for the World Cup following their humiliating defeat to Denmark. . . . more . . .
Di Stefano in a "serious" condition, requires by-pass (Dec 25, 2005)
Real Madrid great Alfredo Di Stefano, in hospital after suffering a heart attack, was reported to be in a "serious" condition and in need of by-pass surgery. . . . more . . .
Heart-to-heart helped Gerrard stay put at Anfield (Dec 25, 2005)
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has revealed how an earnest chat with unsettled captain Steven Gerrard helped the striker snub Chelsea and stay at Anfield. . . . more . . .
Everton boss hoping Ferguson stays put (Dec 25, 2005)
Everton boss David Moyes is hoping striker Duncan Ferguson will see out the rest of the season. . . . more . . .
Doubt over Chelsea duo for Fulham (Dec 25, 2005)
Chelsea go into Monday's Boxing Day Premiership visit by west London neighbours Fulham with doubts over the participation of winger Damien Duff and left-back Asier del Horno. . . . more . . .
Drogba promises to maintain Chelsea efforts (Dec 25, 2005)
Chelsea striker Didier Drogba has assured the Premiership leaders there will be no slackening in his contribution to the champions' cause ahead of his departure for the African Nations Cup. . . . more . . .
Du Wei set to stay after impressing Strachan (Dec 25, 2005)
Celtic manager Gordon Strachan looks set to extend the stay of Chinese international Du Wei at the Scottish club. . . . more . . .
Vidic set for Old Trafford (Dec 25, 2005)
Serbia and Montenegro star centre half Nemanja Vidic could complete his move to Manchester United from Spartak Moscow once the winter transfer window opens on January 1. . . . more . . .
Eriksson feared for England's World Cup campaign after Danish roasting (Dec 25, 2005)
Sven-Goran Eriksson said he feared England would fail to qualify for the World Cup following their humiliating defeat to Denmark. . . . more . . .
Ferguson unconcerned by Chelsea form (Dec 25, 2005)
Sir Alex Ferguson has insisted he is not fretting about the performance of Premiership leaders and reigning champions Chelsea as the season enters the busy Christmas and New Year period. . . . more . . .
Di Stefano stable after suffering heart attack (Dec 24, 2005)
Real Madrid great Alfredo Di Stefano is in hospital after suffering a heart attack, the Spanish first division club said. . . . more . . .
Allardyce set to offload Jaaskelainen (Dec 24, 2005)
Bolton manager Sam Allardyce is ready to cash in by selling goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen to avoid him leaving for free in 2007. . . . more . . .
Chelsea wanted Essien to jet to and from African Nations Cup (Dec 24, 2005)
Chelsea have come up with the ideal solution to allow midfielder Michael Essien to play in both the Premiership and the African Nations Cup in January and February - loan him a private jet. . . . more . . .
Keep your eyes off Saha warns Ferguson (Dec 24, 2005)
Premiership clubs keen on boosting their strike force for the second half of the season should not bother looking to Frenchman Louis Saha, warned Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson. . . . more . . .
Vieira exit floored Arsenal says Gilberto (Dec 24, 2005)
Arsenal took so long to adjust to life without Patrick Vieira that by the time they "woke up" any chance of winning the Premiership had all but disappeared, Gilberto has admitted. . . . more . . .
Chelsea duo doubtful for Fulham (Dec 24, 2005)
Premiership leaders Chelsea have fitness concerns over winger Damien Duff and left-back Asier del Horno as they prepare for Monday's west London derby at home to Fulham. . . . more . . .
Shearer confirms retirement plan (Dec 24, 2005)
Newcastle striker and former England captain Alan Shearer says he will stick by his decision to retire at the end of the season. . . . more . . .
Benitez leaves Liverpool door open for Owen (Dec 24, 2005)
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez says former Anfield great Michael Owen could return to the club one day. . . . more . . .
Petrov set for Celtic return (Dec 24, 2005)
Celtic midfielder Stilian Petrov is due to be fit for the Scottish Premier League leaders' match at home to Livingston on Monday. . . . more . . .
Japan striker Oguro signs up with Japanese owned Grenoble (Dec 24, 2005)
Japan international striker Masashi Oguro, who helped power Gamba Osaka to their first J-League title this month, sealed a contract to play for the French second-division club Grenoble. . . . more . . .
Eriksson like a wet fish says former England striker (Dec 24, 2005)
Former England and Arsenal striker Ian Wright has hit out at Sven-Goran Eriksson claiming the Swede has failed to get to grips with what victory in football means to the country's passionate fans. . . . more . . .
Di Stefano suffers heart attack (Dec 24, 2005)
Real Madrid great Alfredo Di Stefano is in hospital after suffering a heart attack, the Spanish first division club said. . . . more . . .
Villa takeover could be completed by New Year (Dec 23, 2005)
Aston Villa could be under new ownership by the New Year, the man fronting the 64.4 million pounds takeover for the English Premiership side said. . . . more . . .
Owen unfazed by Anfield goal celebrations (Dec 23, 2005)
Newcastle striker Michael Owen insists that fond memories of Liverpool will not hold him back from celebrating scoring against his former club when the teams meet at Anfield on Monday. . . . more . . .
We can win World Cup, says Beckham (Dec 23, 2005)
David Beckham is convinced England can lift the World Cup next summer if luck goes their way. . . . more . . .
Burley happy to work with Woodward (Dec 23, 2005)
George Burley was unveiled as Southampton coach and insisted he doesn't see any problems working with director of football Sir Clive Woodward, the man who guided England to the 2003 rugby World Cup. . . . more . . .
Mido handed African Nations warning by Spurs (Dec 23, 2005)
Tottenham Hotpsur manager Martin Jol has told Egypt striker Mido he could scupper a permanent move to the English Premiership side if he returns less than fully fit from the African Nations Cup. . . . more . . .
McCarthy unhappy with South Africa recall (Dec 23, 2005)
Striker Benni McCarthy said he was unhappy to have been recalled by South Africa for next year's African Nations Cup finals because it will take him away from FC Porto for too long. . . . more . . .
Brazil winger Cicinho joins Real (Dec 23, 2005)
Cicinho, who has made his name on the right wing for his club Sao Paulo and Brazil, has signed a five year contract with Real Madrid. . . . more . . .
Fergie writes off Heinze's World Cup hopes (Dec 23, 2005)
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson said that Gabriel Heinze had no chance of appearing in next year's World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Mourinho regrets voyeur slur on Wenger (Dec 23, 2005)
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho said if he could turn back time he would not have labelled his Arsenal counterpart Arsene Wenger "a voyeur" earlier this season. . . . more . . .
Vietnam football stars in jail for four months, official faces rap (Dec 23, 2005)
Two Vietnamese footballers, under arrest for alleged match-fixing, will be detained for four months, police said, as a senior official came under attack in the state media for failing to stem fraud. . . . more . . .
I'm a fascist, but not racist, says Di Canio (Dec 23, 2005)
Controversial Italian footballer Paolo Di Canio, who has caused a Serie A storm for making Nazi salutes, admitted that he was a fascist, but not a racist. . . . more . . .
Hungary lined up for England World Cup prep (Dec 23, 2005)
Hungary, the first team to beat England on home soil over half a century ago, have been revealed as a vital cog in Sven-Goran Eriksson's World Cup preparations. . . . more . . .
Mourino regrets voyeur slur on Wenger (Dec 23, 2005)
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho said if he could turn back time he would not have labelled his Arsenal counterpart Arsene Wenger "a voyeur" earlier this season. . . . more . . .
Vietnam football duo could face lifelong ban (Dec 22, 2005)
Two Vietnamese players arrested for alleged match-fixing during the recent Southeast Asian Games in the Philippines could face lifelong bans if convicted, a top football official said. . . . more . . .
Osasuna freeze out Atletico for perfect home record (Dec 22, 2005)
Osasuna maintained their 100 per cent home record this season, and defied the freezing conditions and their own frozen pitch in Pamplona, with a 2-1 victory over Atletico Madrid. . . . more . . .
Henry calls on Gunners to start firing (Dec 22, 2005)
Thierry Henry has called on his Arsenal team-mates to raise their game if they are to get back into contention for a Champions League place behind runaway Premiership leaders Chelsea. . . . more . . .
Capello confident Juve can maintain run (Dec 22, 2005)
Fabio Capello insisted his Juventus side were capable of sustaining their irresistible form which has seen them drop just five points in 17 Serie A matches. . . . more . . .
Rangers sign Boyd to boost Champions League bid (Dec 22, 2005)
Kilmarnock striker Kris Boyd completed a 500,000-pound transfer to Glasgow Rangers and described it as a "dream move". . . . more . . .
Player banned for eight months in match-fix scandal (Dec 22, 2005)
A German footballer was banned for eight months after being implicated in the match-fix scandal which has rocked the game in the country. . . . more . . .
Maradona was 'threatened at gun-point,' says friend (Dec 22, 2005)
Football legend Diego Maradona was threatened at gun-point during a fracas at Rio de Janeiro airport, a friend claimed. . . . more . . .
Burley takes charge of Saints (Dec 22, 2005)
English Championship side Southampton revealed that former Ipswich and Hearts boss George Burley will be their new coach. . . . more . . .
Delany wants to leave Villa (Dec 22, 2005)
Welsh international defender Mark Delaney handed struggling Premiership side Aston Villa an unwanted Christmas gift by demanding a move away from the club. . . . more . . .
Burley takescharge of Saints as Woodward moves up (Dec 22, 2005)
English Championship side Southampton revealed that former Ipswich and Hearts boss George Burley will be their new coach. . . . more . . .
Gentle start for African champions Al-Ahly (Dec 22, 2005)
Title holders Al-Ahly of Egypt top a list of nine former winners in the 2006 African Champions League draw. . . . more . . .
Austria defender Scharner agrees Wigan switch (Dec 22, 2005)
Austrian international defender Paul Scharner completed a 3.7-million-euro transfer from Brann Bergen of Norway to English Premiership side Wigan. . . . more . . .
Angry Maradona arrested at Rio airport (Dec 22, 2005)
Diego Maradona was arrested by police at Rio de Janeiro airport on for causing a disturbance after missing his flight to Buenos Aires. . . . more . . .
Cech admits Chelsea 'lucky' to beat Arsenal (Dec 22, 2005)
Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech has admitted that the Premiership leaders and reigning champions were "lucky" to beat Arsenal 2-0 on Sunday, a victory that all but put paid to the Gunners' title ambitions. . . . more . . .
Vandereycken named as new Belgium coach (Dec 22, 2005)
Rene Vandereycken was named as the new coach of the Belgium national team to replace Aime Anthuenis who failed to take the team to the World Cup finals, the Belgian football federation (URBSFA) announced. . . . more . . .
Strachan looking to emulate O'Neill record (Dec 21, 2005)
Celtic manager Gordon Strachan said he wanted to follow in the footsteps of Martin O'Neill after insisting his predecessor's side had not got the respect it deserved. . . . more . . .
London Mayor doubtful over Wembley timetable (Dec 21, 2005)
London Mayor Ken Livingstone voiced his doubts over the timetable for the opening of the new Wembley Stadium after contractors admitted it might not be ready in time for next year's FA Cup Final on May 13 as originally planned. . . . more . . .
Newcastle chief warns Spanish giants off Luque (Dec 21, 2005)
Newcastle chairman Freddy Shepherd told Spanish giants Real Madrid and Barcelona to forget about their attempts to sign the English Premiership club's 9.5 million pounds winger Albert Luque. . . . more . . .
English FA upbeat over Wembley (Dec 21, 2005)
English football officials insisted there was no panic over the progress of the new Wembley Stadium despite contractors Multiplex admitting it may not be ready in time for next year's FA Cup final. . . . more . . .
Henry given all clear (Dec 21, 2005)
Thierry Henry has been given the all-clear to play for Arsenal during the busy Christmas and New Year period, the London Evening Standard reported. . . . more . . .
Xavier fails in appeal against 18-month doping ban (Dec 21, 2005)
Middlesbrough's former Portuguese international defender Abel Xavier has failed in his appeal against an 18-month doping suspension, European football's governing body UEFA reported. . . . more . . .
Wenger pondering League Cup re-think after narrow escape (Dec 21, 2005)
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger admitted he might change his policy of fielding under-strength sides in the League Cup after seeing his team just make it into the semi-finals of this season's competition following a penalty shoot-out win away to League One side Doncaster. . . . more . . .
PSG knocked out of League Cup to heap further pressure on Fournier (Dec 21, 2005)
Paris Saint Germain were knocked out of the French League Cup 2-0 by Toulouse to heap yet more pressure on under-fire coach Laurent Fournier. . . . more . . .
Real Madrid suffer nightmare before Christmas (Dec 21, 2005)
Real Madrid's year ended on a depressing note when the Spanish giants were beaten 2-1 by Racing Santander in front of their own fans. . . . more . . .
Ex-South Africa skipper Fish confirms retirement (Dec 21, 2005)
Former South Africa defender Mark Fish confirmed his retirement from football. . . . more . . .
Cech admits Chelsea 'lucky' to beat Arsenal (Dec 21, 2005)
Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech has admitted that the Premiership leaders and reigning champions were "lucky" to beat Arsenal 2-0 on Sunday, a victory that all but put paid to the Gunners' title ambitions. . . . more . . .
Hislop 'disappointed' by Di Canio salute (Dec 21, 2005)
West Ham goalkeeper Shaka Hislop said he felt "bitterly disappointed" by the controversial actions of former team-mate Paolo Di Canio. . . . more . . .
Arsenal leave it late before making Doncaster pay penalty (Dec 21, 2005)
Arsenal came back from the brink of a League Cup exit against League One Doncaster to win 3-1 in a penalty shoot-out at Belle Vue and book their place in this season's semi-finals It looked as if Doncaster, who were playing non-league football just over two years ago, were going through 2-1 in extra-time only for Brazil World Cup-winner Gilberto to snatch an equaliser in the second minute of stoppage time at the end of the additional 30 minutes. . . . more . . .
Builders warn Wembley may not be ready for FA Cup final (Dec 21, 2005)
London's Wembley Stadium may not be refurbished in time to host May's FA Cup Final, Australian construction group Multiplex has warned. . . . more . . .
Supersub Hargreaves fires Bayern into last eight (Dec 21, 2005)
England international Owen Hargreaves was the hero as holders Bayern Munich advanced to the quarter-finals of the German Cup with a 1-0 extra-time win over SV Hamburg. . . . more . . .
Winter cheer for Juventus (Dec 21, 2005)
The top four teams in Serie A all won with leaders Juventus taking their eight-point advantage into the winter break following a 2-0 home victory over Siena. . . . more . . .
Comeback kings St Pauli KO Hertha in German Cup (Dec 21, 2005)
Bundesliga side Hertha Berlin were dumped out of the last sixteen of the German Cup by minnows FC St Pauli with the regional side winning a 4-3 thriller. . . . more . . .
Sheffield United set for takeover of China's Chengdu (Dec 21, 2005)
England's second division Sheffield United are only days away from acquiring a controlling stake in Chengdu Five Bull and becoming the first foreign club to control a Chinese team, officials said. . . . more . . .
United and Wigan through to League Cup semi-finals (Dec 20, 2005)
Manchester United and Wigan both made it through to the semi-finals of the League Cup. . . . more . . .
Vietnam PM urges quick probe in football scandal (Dec 20, 2005)
Vietnam's Prime Minister Phan Van Khai has urged police to speed up investigation of alleged match-fixing during the Southeast Asian Games in the Philippines earlier this month, an official said. . . . more . . .
SFA leave Hearts boss Rix in limbo (Dec 20, 2005)
Hearts head coach Graham Rix was left facing an uncertain future after the Scottish Football Association (SFA), looking into his suitability for the post once again, asked the Edinburgh club for more information. . . . more . . .
Owen looking forward to Liverpool return (Dec 20, 2005)
Newcastle striker Michael Owen has admitted to mixed emotions ahead of his return to former club Liverpool on December 26. . . . more . . .
Xmas card snub reopens Jose's feud with Arsene (Dec 20, 2005)
Jose Mourinho apparently refused to shake Arsene Wenger's hand after Chelsea's 2-0 win on Sunday because the Arsenal manager had refused to respond to a Christmas Card. . . . more . . .
Referees' chief upholds Arsenal complaint over Chelsea defeat (Dec 20, 2005)
Arsenal's complaint that they should never have had a goal disallowed before Chelsea opened the scoring in their 2-0 defeat on Sunday has been upheld by the English Referees' chief. . . . more . . .
Blatter tells countries to pays clubs in player conflict (Dec 20, 2005)
FIFA chief Sepp Blatter, facing court action by clubs angry at receiving no compensation for players injured in international matches, said clubs should be paid for releasing players. . . . more . . .
Figo convinced Portugal can win World Cup (Dec 20, 2005)
Inter Milan star Luis Figo is confident that Portugal, runners-up in Euro 2004, can win next year's World Cup in Germany. . . . more . . .
Toure backs 'spirit' to pull Arsenal through (Dec 20, 2005)
Kolo Toure has insisted Arsenal's team spirit can revive their faltering season while stressing that his on-field bust-up with Freddie Ljungberg at St James' Park was a "brotherly" row. . . . more . . .
Australian fans scramble as World Cup tickets go on sale (Dec 20, 2005)
Thousands of Australian football fans inundated officials with requests for tickets for next year's World Cup in Germany after the tickets went on sale, officials said. . . . more . . .
Olisadebe set for Pompey trial (Dec 20, 2005)
Poland striker Emmanuel Olisadebe is to have a trial with Premiership strugglers Portsmouth starting. . . . more . . .
Rafa hunt for missing table leg (Dec 20, 2005)
Rafael Benitez plans to use the January transfer window to strengthen his Liverpool side but has vowed not to make the same mistake as Gerard Houllier who signed up a crop of flops in his time as Liverpool boss. . . . more . . .
Essien rejects dirty tag (Dec 20, 2005)
Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien has hit back at critics of his physical approach, insisting he would never deliberately set out to injure an opponent. . . . more . . .
Japan midfielder Ono wants to stay on in Europe (Dec 20, 2005)
Japan midfielder Shinji Ono hopes to stay on in European football but will consider a bid by his former J-League club Urawa Reds to bring him back from Dutch side Feyenoord, a Reds official said. . . . more . . .
Yakubu pulls out of Nations Cup (Dec 20, 2005)
Aiyegbeni Yakubu will not be playing for Nigeria in the African Nations Cup next month, the Middlesbrough striker has confirmed. . . . more . . .
Eto'o makes it lucky 13 for Barcelona (Dec 20, 2005)
Cameroon striker Samuel Eto'o took his season's goal tally to 17 as champions Barcelona clinched a 13th successive win to take control of the Spanish title race. . . . more . . .
Hammers sign Israeli striker Katan (Dec 19, 2005)
West Ham have signed Israeli striker Yaniv Katan, who will be eligible to play in the New Year, on a three-and-a-half-year contract from Maccabi Haifa. . . . more . . .
Another coach for ragged Real Madrid? (Dec 19, 2005)
The odds on Juan Ramon Lopez Caro finishing the season as coach of Real Madrid will have lengthened considerably after the Spanish giant's tepid 1-1 draw against Osasuna. . . . more . . .
Blatter gets behind call for more professionalism in Asian football (Dec 19, 2005)
FIFA chief Sepp Blatter has joined Asian Football Confederation (AFC) president Mohammed Bin Hammam in urging a more professional approach to help the sport grow in the region. . . . more . . .
Rooney the key for United challenge says O'Leary (Dec 19, 2005)
Aston Villa manager David O'Leary believes Manchester United can challenge Chelsea for the English Premiership as long as Wayne Rooney plays well. . . . more . . .
Little Christmas spirit as Bundesliga hires and fires (Dec 19, 2005)
Patience is said to be a virtue but Bundesliga clubs do not agree with that theory on the evidence of the past few weeks. . . . more . . .
Gunners too raw to challenge Chelsea, says Bergkamp (Dec 19, 2005)
Arsenal striker Dennis Bergkamp believes the Gunners have struggled to keep up with Chelsea in the Premiership title race because the Highbury squad is too inexperienced but warned their time will come. . . . more . . .
Real say coach to stay to season's end (Dec 19, 2005)
Real Madrid coach Juan Ramon Lopez Caro is to stay in the hotseat until season's end the club said in a statement via vice-chairman and sporting director Emilio Butragueno. . . . more . . .
Ronaldinho on top of the world again (Dec 19, 2005)
Brazilian star Ronaldinho was named FIFA International Footballer of the Year for the second year in succession. . . . more . . .
Di Canio banned for one match for second Nazi salute (Dec 19, 2005)
Controversial Lazio star Paolo Di Canio has been banned for one match after performing a Nazi salute to fans for the second week in succession. . . . more . . .
Ronaldinho favourite for World Footballer of Year prize (Dec 19, 2005)
Brazilian superstar Ronaldinho is the overwhelming favourite to lift the World Footballer of the Year award for a second successive season. . . . more . . .
Cahill 'embarrassed' by slumping Everton (Dec 19, 2005)
Australian international Tim Cahill admitted that Everton's season, which began with Champions League aspirations but has descended into a relegation dogfight, is an "embarrassment". . . . more . . .
Ronaldinho, truly top of the world (Dec 19, 2005)
Ronaldinho's second successive award as world player of the year simply confirms him as head and shoulders above the rest and sits easily with the European award he picked up last month. . . . more . . .
Wenger faces rap over 'ref playing for Chelsea' quip (Dec 19, 2005)
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger faces a disciplinary rap from the Football Association over comments on the performance of referee Rob Styles and one of his assistants during his side's 2-0 defeat by Chelsea at Highbury on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Mourinho and Wenger feud back on as Chelsea close in on title (Dec 19, 2005)
Jose Mourinho has reignited his feud with Arsene Wenger after claiming Arsenal's players deliberately set out to get Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien sent off in their Premiership clash at Highbury. . . . more . . .
Deco staying put at Barcelona (Dec 19, 2005)
Portugal midfielder Deco has rejected suggestions in the Spanish press he was set to leave Barcelona. . . . more . . .
Zidane happy to be back in World Cup (Dec 19, 2005)
Zinedine Zidane admitted that he was right to come out of international retirement and that the decision was crucial to France securing a place in the 2006 finals. . . . more . . .
Real not interested in Wenger (Dec 18, 2005)
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is not a target for Spanish giants Real Madrid their vice-president Emilio Butragueno has revealed. . . . more . . .
Chelsea put down deposit on title (Dec 18, 2005)
Chelsea ended their 15-year wait for a league win at Highbury with a 2-0 win over Arsenal and, on this form, their supporters will not be kept waiting too long before they can celebrate another Premiership title. . . . more . . .
Eriksson joy as Crouch finds scoring touch (Dec 18, 2005)
England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson has expressed his delight that Liverpool striker Peter Crouch has found his scoring touch. . . . more . . .
Ferguson hails United revival after Villa success (Dec 18, 2005)
Sir Alex Ferguson insisted that Manchester United had rediscovered their famed self-belief after watching his side beat Aston Villa 2-0. . . . more . . .
No-lose situation as Enyimba crowned Nigerian champions (Dec 18, 2005)
Enyimba claimed their fourth Nigerian league championship in five years without kicking a ball when opponents Gabros refused to turn up in protest over the way the competition is run. . . . more . . .
Milan clubs raise their hopes of catching Juve (Dec 18, 2005)
Inter and AC Milan raised their hopes of catching Serie A leaders Juventus with emphatic 4-0 victories. . . . more . . .
Celtic title drive pricked by Thistle (Dec 18, 2005)
Celtic put in a lacklustre display in their first match since former Manchester United legend Roy Keane signed with a 1-1 draw against mid-table Inverness Caledonian Thistle. . . . more . . .
Inter and AC Milan revive title hopes with easy wins (Dec 18, 2005)
Inter Milan and AC Milan revived their Serie A title hopes with emphatic 4-0 victories. . . . more . . .
Bayern the winners as Hamburg and Bremen draw (Dec 18, 2005)
Title rivals Werder Bremen and SV Hamburg cancelled each other out in a 1-1 draw in a welcome result for leaders Bayern Munich. . . . more . . .
Keane has found his level in Scotland, says former Ireland boss (Dec 18, 2005)
Former Republic of Ireland manager Jack Charlton has said that ageing midfielder Roy Keane has found his right level of play in the less demanding Scottish Premier League. . . . more . . .
Villarreal victory continues happy mood (Dec 18, 2005)
Villarreal continued their good run of form by coming from behind to beat Getafe 2-1. . . . more . . .
Kahn to sign Bayern extension (Dec 18, 2005)
German international goalkeeper Oliver Kahn is poised to sign an extension to his contract with German champions Bayern Munich. . . . more . . .
Sao Paulo win World Club Championships (Dec 18, 2005)
Sao Paulo have been crowned world champions after beating Liverpool 1-0, ending the English club's eight game winning streak and record run of clean sheets. . . . more . . .
Lens take second spot in French title race (Dec 18, 2005)
Lens beat Le Mans 2-0 in the French league to take second spot after the final round of matches before the winter break. . . . more . . .
Yakubu heroics not enough to give 'Boro elusive victory (Dec 18, 2005)
Two goals in 13 first half minutes from in-form Nigeria striker Yakubu were not enough to secure Middlesbrough's first league win in four attempts as Tottenham snatched a 3-3 draw. . . . more . . .
Soldado salvages a draw for struggling Real Madrid (Dec 18, 2005)
Real Madrid reserve striker Roberto Soldado came to the Spanish giants' rescue for the second time this season with the equaliser seven minutes from time in their 1-1 draw with 10-man Osasuna. . . . more . . .
Happy Pompey homecoming for Harry (Dec 17, 2005)
Harry Redknapp celebrated his return to Fratton Park with a hard-fought 1-0 home victory against West Brom thanks to Svetoslav Todorov's first Premiership goal since May 2003. . . . more . . .
Fournier feels the heat as Ajaccio hold PSG (Dec 17, 2005)
Under-fire Paris Saint Germain coach Laurent Fournier felt the heat in their final French league game before the winter break as the Parisians were held 1-1 at lowly Ajaccio. . . . more . . .
Owen hat-trick sinks West Ham (Dec 17, 2005)
Michael Owen was in devastating form as he scored a hat-trick and made the other goal in Newcastle's 4-2 win over West Ham at Upton Park. . . . more . . .
Bayern ride luck to move seven clear (Dec 17, 2005)
Iranian international Ali Karimi has put speculation over his future behind him by scoring a brilliant goal to help Bayern Munich move seven points clear at the Bundesliga summit with a flattering 2-1 win at Borussia Dortmund. . . . more . . .
Fourth straight home win for Fulham seals points (Dec 17, 2005)
Fulham earned their fourth home English Premiership victory in a row to ease their relegation fears against a combative Blackburn side at Craven Cottage. . . . more . . .
England choose Baden-Baden as World Cup base (Dec 17, 2005)
Sven-Goran Eriksson's England team have made the south west German city of Baden-Baden their base for the 2006 World Cup. . . . more . . .
Bruce feeling blue after Man City hammering (Dec 17, 2005)
Manchester City crushed 10-man Birmingham 4-1 in the kick-off to the Midlanders' brief Premiership revival. . . . more . . .
Barcelona clinch record 12th win in a row (Dec 17, 2005)
League leaders Barcelona romped to a club record 12th successive victory in all competitions with a comfortable 3-1 win over struggling Cadiz. . . . more . . .
Camara flashes Wigan past Charlton (Dec 17, 2005)
A hat-trick by Senegalese international Henri Camara gave Wigan a 3-0 victory over Charlton Athletic and end their five-match winless Premiership streak. . . . more . . .
Juve coach Capello slams Thuram after Lazio draw (Dec 17, 2005)
Juventus coach Fabio Capello criticized defender Lilian Thuram for gifting Lazio a head start in the 1-1 draw here which stalled his side's push for the Serie A title. . . . more . . .
We missed out on the big teams says Rangers captain Ferguson (Dec 17, 2005)
Rangers captain Barry Ferguson said they had missed out on the big teams and had to be content with the less glamorous Spanish side Villarreal in the European Champions League knockout stages. . . . more . . .
Lovenkrand keeps Rangers in hunt (Dec 17, 2005)
Peter Lovenkrand's sixth goal in four games gave Rangers a 1-0 win at home to Hearts in the Scottish Premier League to help them narrow the gap on their opponents. . . . more . . .
Bolton late show stuns Everton (Dec 17, 2005)
A dramatic late collapse by Everton saw David Moyes's team lose 4-0 at home at Goodison Park to a Bolton Wanderers team for whom Stelios, the Greek international forward, claimed two well-struck goals. . . . more . . .
Bayern's Sagnol announces Juventus move (Dec 17, 2005)
Bayern Munich's France international defender Willy Sagnol is expected to join Juventus at the end of the season. . . . more . . .
I've proved I'm no phoney, says Anelka (Dec 17, 2005)
Controversial France international striker Nicolas Anelka insisted that he had answered his critics on the pitch during his return to the national team last month after three years in the wilderness. . . . more . . .
Rooney stars as United revive title push against Villa (Dec 17, 2005)
Wayne Rooney breathed life back into the Premiership title race after inspiring Manchester United to a 2-0 victory over Aston Villa here. . . . more . . .
Celtic coach Strachan claims Lennon consulted over Keane capture (Dec 17, 2005)
Celtic manger Gordon Strachan has said the arrival of Roy Keane was made in consultation with team captain Neil Lennon, who appears to be under most threat following the Irish midfielder's arrival. . . . more . . .
Cisse plays down France return speculation (Dec 16, 2005)
Liverpool striker Djibril Cisse has attempted to kill off persistent speculation that he could be leaving the club in January and returning to France with Olympique Marseille. . . . more . . .
Strachan happy with Keane selection dilemma (Dec 16, 2005)
Celtic manager Gordon Strachan insisted he would have no qualms about dropping some of his established stars to find a place for Roy Keane in his side. . . . more . . .
Benitez to remain in Japan despite father's death (Dec 16, 2005)
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has decided to remain in Japan despite the death of his father and a tribute will be held before Sunday's World Club Championship final, FIFA president Sepp Blatter said. . . . more . . .
McLeish to consult Villarreal victims (Dec 16, 2005)
Rangers boss Alex McLeish will seek the advice of Sir Alex Ferguson and Everton manager David Moyes as he seeks to plot Villarreal's downfall in the last 16 of the Champions League. . . . more . . .
Robert may hold key for Pompey (Dec 16, 2005)
Controversial Frenchman Laurent Robert may be handed the chance to resurrect Portsmouth's Premiership season by manager Harry Redknapp - starting with Saturday's relegation battle against West Brom. . . . more . . .
Blatter says politics has no place in football; sidesteps Iran question (Dec 16, 2005)
FIFA head Sepp Blatter has outlined his views on the game, saying neither politics or violence from fans has a place in football and sidestepped whether Iran should be banned from the World Cup after its president described the Holocaust as "a myth". . . . more . . .
Ono slams Feyenoord over Japan move (Dec 16, 2005)
Japanese international Shinji Ono slammed his Dutch club Feyenoord for not consulting him on his reported return to J-League side Urawa Reds. . . . more . . .
United keen to extend revival (Dec 16, 2005)
Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar believes the midweek hammering of hapless Wigan will spark the momentum the Old Trafford giants so desperately need. . . . more . . .
We will survive, pledges Latics boss Jewell (Dec 16, 2005)
Wigan will survive their first season in the Premiership despite a worrying run of five defeats, says manager Paul Jewell. . . . more . . .
Ferguson finds some comfort out in the cold (Dec 16, 2005)
Sir Alex Ferguson attempted to put a brave face on the pain he must have felt as Friday's draw for the knockout phase of the Champions League took place without Manchester United. . . . more . . .
Allardyce admits Marseille clash will be tough (Dec 16, 2005)
Bolton manager Sam Allardyce admitted his side would face a tough battle against France's Marseille in the first knockout round of the UEFA Cup. . . . more . . .
Wenger plays down Mourinho feud (Dec 16, 2005)
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger insisted ahead of Sunday's home clash with leaders Chelsea that his spat with Jose Mourinho, the English champions' boss, was a thing of the past. . . . more . . .
Writers' block for determined World Cup hosts (Dec 16, 2005)
Germany's football stars have been told to forget any idea of writing football columns for newspapers or internet sites ahead of and during their hosting of the 2006 World Cup. . . . more . . .
Arsenal match won't decide title says Cech (Dec 16, 2005)
Chelsea goalkeeper Peter Cech said the race for the Premiership title would still be ongoing even if the leaders won away to London rivals Arsenal this weekend. . . . more . . .
Benfica closes door on Sabrosa transfer to Liverpool (Dec 16, 2005)
Benfica international striker Simao Sabrosa, linked to a move to Champions League opponents Liverpool in the January transfer period, will be staying put at the Lisbon club, the head of Benfica's football division said. . . . more . . .
Benitez's family turmoil (Dec 16, 2005)
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez was reported to be agonising over whether to leave Japan and fly home to Madrid to join his family after the death of his father. . . . more . . .
Wenger fired up by Real challenge (Dec 16, 2005)
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger believes victory over Real Madrid could inspire his side to go all the way and win their first Champions League title. . . . more . . .
Lille hand Lyon first defeat of season (Dec 16, 2005)
French league minnows Lille handed Lyon their first defeat of the season after a pulsating 3-1 win at the four-time champions Gerland stadium. . . . more . . .
Sydney upset Ah Ahly to avoid World Club Championships wooden spoon (Dec 16, 2005)
Goals from former Manchester United star Dwight Yorke and Everton reject David Carney gave Sydney a 2-1 victory over Al Ahly, consigning the African champions to last place in the World Club Championships. . . . more . . .
It's Chelsea against Barcelona again in Champions League (Dec 16, 2005)
Two mouth-watering England-Spain showdowns marked the draw for the last 16 in the Champions League. . . . more . . .
Chelsea get Barcelona again in Champions League (Dec 16, 2005)
Two mouth-watering England-Spain showdowns marked the draw for the last 16 in the Champions League here on Friday. . . . more . . .
Chelsea revenge not on Rijkaard's mind (Dec 16, 2005)
Barcelona coach Frank Rijkaard insisted that revenge will not be on his mind when his Spanish champions face Chelsea in a rematch of last season's stormy Champions League showdown. . . . more . . .
Terry: I don't want Beckham's job (Dec 15, 2005)
Chelsea skipper John Terry has insisted he has no desire to take the England captaincy from David Beckham before next summer's World Cup finals in Germany. . . . more . . .
Everton pin hopes on refreshed Cahill (Dec 15, 2005)
Everton hope the return of Australian international midfielder Tim Cahill from a three-match suspension will help reignite their climb away from the relegation zone. . . . more . . .
Keane's green and white vision of the future realised (Dec 15, 2005)
Roy Keane's long-cherished dream of ending his career in the famous green and white hoops of Celtic was realised when the former Manchester United skipper signed for the Scottish club. . . . more . . .
Essien gets two-match ban for Hamann horror tackle (Dec 15, 2005)
Michael Essien will miss both legs of Chelsea's last-16 tie in the Champions League after UEFA handed the midfielder a two-match ban for his horror tackle on Liverpool's Dietmar Hamann. . . . more . . .
Gilberto bemoans worst week in England (Dec 15, 2005)
Gilberto Silva has revealed the extent of his frustration over the red card that has ruled him out of Arsenal's match against Premiership leaders Chelsea on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Other German clubs not appealing for Bayern star Karimi (Dec 15, 2005)
Iranian international star Ali Karimi says he is not prepared to join another German club should Bayern Munich decide to let him go. . . . more . . .
Keane joins Celtic (Dec 15, 2005)
Former Manchester United skipper Roy Keane has joined Celtic. . . . more . . .
Relieved two-goal Crouch wins praise from Benitez (Dec 15, 2005)
Peter Crouch expressed relief at finding the net again in Liverpool's 3-0 win against Deportivo Saprissa as coach Rafael Benitez praised his contribution to the club's recent form. . . . more . . .
Family affair celebrate UEFA Cup progress (Dec 15, 2005)
SV Hamburg beat Slavia Prague 2-0 but both sides reached the UEFA Cup round of 32 to leave the Jarolim family, split by divided loyalties in the game, celebrating the result. . . . more . . .
European super clubs hit out at Blatter (Dec 15, 2005)
Thomas Kurth, the director-general of the G14 group of Europe's top clubs, hit out at FIFA chief Sepp Blatter and said they were shocked by the attacks on them by the head of the world football body. . . . more . . .
Keane completes move to Celtic (Dec 15, 2005)
Roy Keane's long-cherished dream of ending his career in the famous green and white hoops of Celtic was realised when the former Manchester United skipper signed for the Scottish club. . . . more . . .
Record-breaking Liverpool into World Club Championships final (Dec 15, 2005)
Liverpool have overwhelmed Deportivo Saprissa 3-0 to book a place in the final of the World Club Championhips and extend their winning streak to eight games and a record 11 clean sheets. . . . more . . .
Chelsea face tough Champions League draw (Dec 15, 2005)
Chelsea's failure to win their first round group could mean they are thrown against Barcelona when UEFA make the draw for the first knockout round on Friday. . . . more . . .
Politics no reason to expel Iran from World Cup say FIFA (Dec 15, 2005)
Football's world governing body FIFA has no intention of banning Iran from the 2006 World Cup finals insisting sport and politics must not become intertwined. . . . more . . .
Dortmund sign Ghana striker Amoah (Dec 15, 2005)
Borussia Dortmund finalised the signing of Ghanaian international striker Matthew Amoah from Vitesse Arnhem. . . . more . . .
Fans deliver mighty snub to Middlesbrough (Dec 15, 2005)
Middlesbrough fans delivered a mighty snub to European football when just 9,436 people turned up at the 35,000-capacity Riverside Stadium to see the team confirm their place in the UEFA Cup last 32 with a 2-0 win against Litex Lovech. . . . more . . .
Sao Paulo into World Club Championships final after beating Al Ittihad (Dec 14, 2005)
South American giants Sao Paulo scraped through a tough test against Asian powerhouse Al Ittihad to book their place in the final of the World Club Championships with a 3-2 victory. . . . more . . .
Davis offered double-money deal to stay at Villa (Dec 14, 2005)
Aston Villa midfielder Steven Davis has been offered a double-your-money new contract by the Birmingham club in a bid to ward off interest from Premiership giants Manchester United and Arsenal. . . . more . . .
German boss orders Huth to stay at Chelsea (Dec 14, 2005)
Chelsea's German defender Robert Huth has been advised not to quit the club in search of regular football and a place in Germany's World Cup squad. . . . more . . .
Dortmund tell Atletico to up Rosicky bid (Dec 14, 2005)
Borussia Dortmund have told Spanish First Division outfit Atletico Madrid they have seven days to come up with an improved offer for their Czech international playmaker Tomas Rosicky. . . . more . . .
Bolton's dream European debut continues (Dec 14, 2005)
Bolton Wanderers gained a place in the last 32 of the UEFA Cup, in their debut season in European competition, with a 1-1 draw at home to Spanish side Sevilla at the Reebok Stadium. . . . more . . .
Deisler extends Bayern deal by three years (Dec 14, 2005)
Bayern Munich's German international midfielder Sebastian Deisler has extended his contract with the Bundesliga giants by three years until 2009. . . . more . . .
I'd love to coach Reds: Gerrard (Dec 14, 2005)
Steven Gerrard is already Liverpool's boss-man on the pitch. . . . more . . .
Purple Monsters out to scare Liverpool (Dec 14, 2005)
Liverpool's rich vein of form will be put to the test Thursday by triple CONCACAF champions Deportivo Saprissa, who admit it will be hard to beat the European champions but insist anything is possible. . . . more . . .
Keane on his way to Celtic (Dec 14, 2005)
Roy Keane's dream of finishing his career at Celtic looks set to be realized after the Glasgow club's major shareholder reportedly agreed to pay part of his salary, removing the biggest stumbling block to a move to Scotland. . . . more . . .
Liverpool clash most important in club's history: Saprissa coach (Dec 14, 2005)
Deportivo Saprissa coach Hernan Medford says their World Club Championship game against Liverpool is the most important in the club's history and in his own illustrious career. . . . more . . .
Juventus two win doping case appeal (Dec 14, 2005)
Two Juventus officials were celebrating after both were cleared of doping accusations by an appeals court. . . . more . . .
Media round on "obnoxious" Ferguson (Dec 14, 2005)
England's media have rounded on Sir Alex Ferguson, accusing the Manchester United boss of rank hypocrisy over his claim that the press were pursuing a vendetta against him and his club. . . . more . . .
Deisler and Lucio extend Bayern deals (Dec 14, 2005)
Bayern Munich received a double boost with German international midfielder Sebastian Deisler and Brazilian international Lucio signing contract extensions at the club. . . . more . . .
Ref rage makes life stressful for the men in black (Dec 14, 2005)
It is supposed to be the season of good will to all men. . . . more . . .
West Ham on the rise after seeing off Everton (Dec 14, 2005)
West Ham moved up into seventh place in the Premiership table and into contention for a European spot next season after a 2-1 win away to Everton at Goodison Park. . . . more . . .
Eriksson close to finalising England World Cup squad (Dec 14, 2005)
England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson admits there are only three places left in his 2006 World Cup squad. . . . more . . .
CSKA feel the cold as champions exit UEFA Cup (Dec 14, 2005)
Russian UEFA Cup titleholders CSKA Moscow were left without their crown after finishing bottom of their group F and with no entry to the last 32 of the competition. . . . more . . .
10-up for Bosman but he doesn't feel like celebrating (Dec 14, 2005)
The 10th anniverary of the Bosman ruling which revolutionised football transfers in Europe has led UEFA to claim rich clubs are now richer, poorer clubs are poorer and unlawful traffic of young players from abroad has increased. . . . more . . .
Ferguson urges United to build on Wigan win (Dec 14, 2005)
Sir Alex Ferguson has challenged his Manchester United players to use their biggest victory of the season as a springboard to push runaway leaders Chelsea all the way in the title race. . . . more . . .
Fabregas targets Spain World Cup spot (Dec 14, 2005)
Arsenal teenager Cesc Fabregas is increasingly confident he could yet force his way into the Spain party for next year's World Cup finals in Germany after being given his first experience of the senior international squad. . . . more . . .
United put Euro misery behind them with emphatic win (Dec 14, 2005)
Rio Ferdinand's first Premiership goal for Manchester United helped end a torrid few days for manager Sir Alex Ferguson as his side beat Wigan Athletic 4-0 at Old Trafford to move up into second in the table. . . . more . . .
Robben ready to suffer in Chelsea's cause (Dec 14, 2005)
Arjen Robben has insisted he is willing to risk a fresh injury and get kicked on Chelsea's behalf after manager Jose Mourinho called on his Dutch winger to make a big impression in the second half of the season. . . . more . . .
Referees face Czech match-fixing charges (Dec 13, 2005)
Two former referees could face trial for match-fixing after Czech police said they had asked the state attorney to press charges. . . . more . . .
Bothroyd suffers car blackout (Dec 13, 2005)
Charlton striker Jay Bothroyd underwent neurological tests after suffering a blackout that led him to crash his car. . . . more . . .
Real pull back from Keane move (Dec 13, 2005)
Real Madrid president Florentino Perez appeared to rule out a move for former Manchester United skipper Roy Keane. . . . more . . .
United seek to give Rooney reason to get out of bed (Dec 13, 2005)
Wayne Rooney admits there are days when he finds it hard to get out of bed -- and the way Manchester United's season has been going he must be thinking about going into hibernation until the World Cup. . . . more . . .
Sao Paulo boss expects to win World Club Championships (Dec 13, 2005)
Sao Paulo boss Paulo Autuori is confident his team will be walking away from Japan as world champions, not Liverpool, and knows the Brazilian public will settle for nothing less. . . . more . . .
Lazio fined for neo nazi symbol in the stands (Dec 13, 2005)
Lazio were fined 8,000 euros for letting their supporters show a neo nazi symbol in the stands at the weekend but striker Paulo Di Canio was not punished for making a fascist salute. . . . more . . .
'Suicidal' Dyer reveals injury despair (Dec 13, 2005)
Newcastle midfielder Kieron Dyer said trying to overcome a mystery illness had left him feeling "suicidal" at one stage during this season. . . . more . . .
Europe still a City goal (Dec 13, 2005)
Manchester City manager Stuart Pearce has insisted qualifying for European football next season is still a realistic target for his side. . . . more . . .
Asia's Al Ittihad brimming with confidence as Sao Paulo showdown looms (Dec 13, 2005)
Al Ittihad come face-to-face with a Sao Paulo side weighed down by expectations in a eagerly awaited clash Wednesday between the best teams in Asia and South America, with continental pride at stake. . . . more . . .
Robben ready to suffer in Chelsea's cause (Dec 13, 2005)
Arjen Robben has insisted he is willing to risk a fresh injury and get kicked on Chelsea's behalf after manager Jose Mourinho called on his Dutch winger to make a big impression in the second half of the season. . . . more . . .
Pele says Japan will do better at 2006 World Cup (Dec 13, 2005)
Pele predicts that Japan, under fellow Brazilian legend Zico, will do better at the 2006 World Cup than at the last edition which they co-hosted with South Korea. . . . more . . .
Japan has no fear of Brazil: Nakata (Dec 13, 2005)
Japan's experienced midfielder Hidetoshi Nakata says his side will not be scared of Brazil at next year's World Cup with global football more evenly balanced now than ever before. . . . more . . .
Allardyce issues Euro rallying cry (Dec 13, 2005)
Bolton Wanderers manager Sam Allardyce has told side to keep the "bandwagon rolling" when they meet Sevilla in the UEFA Cup at the Reebok Stadium here Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Break will benefit England says Eriksson (Dec 13, 2005)
England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson has insisted the guaranteed four-week break before the start of next year's World Cup Finals will be a huge boost to his team's hopes of winning the tournament. . . . more . . .
Gerrard ready to play wherever needed, for club and country (Dec 13, 2005)
Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard says he is comfortable playing in whatever position required by his club and country, but prefers licence to roam as an attacking central midfielder. . . . more . . .
Jose counting on Christmas present (Dec 13, 2005)
Jose Mourinho is confident Chelsea will retain their English Premiership title if they do well over the Christmas holiday. . . . more . . .
Ferguson vents frustration over press "hatred" of United (Dec 13, 2005)
Sir Alex Ferguson gave vent to his frustration over Manchester United's faltering season with an angry onslaught against England's daily newspapers, accusing them of harbouring a "hatred" of the club. . . . more . . .
Exciting new star Park wins another award (Dec 13, 2005)
South Korea's exciting new star Park Chu-young has won another award, K-League rookie of the year, to go with his Asian Football Confederation (AFC) young player of the year gong. . . . more . . .
Fergie and Mourinho in hot water for shooting from the lip (Dec 13, 2005)
Jose Mourinho is facing more Football Association sanctions over his use of the word "cheat" in a post-match television interview following Chelsea's victory over Wigan at Stamford Bridge on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Fortune fails to favour Quinton once more (Dec 13, 2005)
Quinton Fortune's Manchester United future could be in doubt after the South Africa international was referred to a specialist in a bid to discover why a knee injury is not healing. . . . more . . .
Fabregas targets Spain World Cup spot (Dec 13, 2005)
Arsenal teenager Francesc Fabregas is increasingly confident he could yet force his way into the Spain party for next year's World Cup finals in Germany after being given his first experience of the senior international squad. . . . more . . .
Allardyce slaps up not-for-sale side on Israel skipper (Dec 12, 2005)
Bolton boss Sam Allardyce has slapped a not-for-sale sign on Israeli defender Tal Ben Haim. . . . more . . .
Deportivo Saprissa beat Sydney to set up dream Liverpool showdown (Dec 12, 2005)
CONCACAF champions Deportivo Saprissa set up a dream match against Liverpool with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over minnows Sydney FC at the World Club Championships. . . . more . . .
Spurs ensure no fairytale return to Portsmouth for Redknapp (Dec 12, 2005)
There was no fairytale start to Harry Redknapp's second reign at struggling Portsmouth, two goals in the final five minutes from Tottenham's Ahmed Mido and Jermaine Defoe securing the London club a 3-1 win. . . . more . . .
Schalke sack manager Rangnick (Dec 12, 2005)
Schalke 04 sacked their manager Ralf Rangnick following comments he made after Saturday's 1-0 league win over Mainz 05. . . . more . . .
British police to ban 3,500 hooligans from Germany (Dec 12, 2005)
The British police will prevent 3,500 known hooligans from travelling to Germany for next year's World Cup finals, a high-ranking British police officer said. . . . more . . .
Award-winning coach Mourinho calls for continued success from Chelsea (Dec 12, 2005)
Jose Mourinho, just named the BBC Sports Coach of the Year, believes that success is required every season and that all the hard work of last year will come to nothing if Chelsea's Premiership dominance wanes. . . . more . . .
Keane hesitating over Real deal (Dec 12, 2005)
Roy Keane's closest confidant has denied reports that the former Manchester United captain is on the verge of a move to Real Madrid. . . . more . . .
Matthaus denies World Cup draw conspiracy theory (Dec 12, 2005)
West Germany's 1990 World Cup winning captain Lothar Matthaus has hit back at a report in Italy that he manipulated Friday's 2006 World Cup draw. . . . more . . .
Defensive slip-ups turn Reds boss green with envy of blues (Dec 12, 2005)
Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson has confessed that he envies the defensive solidity on which Chelsea have based their current dominance of English football. . . . more . . .
Liverpool in Japan but deny trip is only for commercial reasons (Dec 12, 2005)
Liverpool arrived in Japan but chief executive Rick Parry denied the trip was a commercial exercise and insisted their priority was winning the World Club Championships. . . . more . . .
Saints praise teenage star Theo (Dec 12, 2005)
Sixteen-year-old Theo Walcott boosted his rising profile by hitting a dramatic winner to give Southampton a 1-0 win over Luton in the Championship as the Saints put behind them the departure of Harry Redknapp. . . . more . . .
Frenchman Fernandez takes over as Betar Jerusalem coach (Dec 12, 2005)
The former Paris St Germain coach Luis Fernandez, who was named general manager of Betar Jerusalem last month, was appointed first-team coach in succession to Dutchman Tom Caanen. . . . more . . .
Everton still keen on Keane (Dec 12, 2005)
Everton have insisted they are still in the hunt to sign Roy Keane and so extend his long and successful career in the Premiership. . . . more . . .
Disgraced ex-Duisburg coach faces ban, fine over headbutt (Dec 12, 2005)
The disciplinary committee of the German Football Federation (DFB) has recommended that Norbert Meier, the former coach of struggling Bundesliga side MSV Duisburg, be given a three-month suspension and 15,000-euro fine for headbutting a player. . . . more . . .
Organisers expect World Cup ticket demand to soar (Dec 12, 2005)
The organising committee for the 2006 World Cup in Germany expect demand to soar when the fourth sales period of 250,000 tickets begins on Monday at 12:00 a.m (1100 GMT). . . . more . . .
Germany only have Ballack says Poland coach (Dec 11, 2005)
Poland manager Pavel Janas is not afraid of facing hosts Germany at the 2006 World Cup claiming the three-time winners only have one top player in captain Michael Ballack. . . . more . . .
Rangers set sights on Darcheville (Dec 11, 2005)
Ailing Scottish champions Rangers are set to bid for Bordeaux striker Jean-Claude Darcheville in the January transfer window his agent has told the BBC. . . . more . . .
Al Ittihad end Ah Ahly's 18-month winning streak (Dec 11, 2005)
Asian powerhouse Al Ittihad have overcome the psychological blow of losing three of their Brazilian stars to end Al Ahly's 18-month winning streak in the first match of the World Club Championships. . . . more . . .
Trezeguet double inspires ruthless Juve (Dec 11, 2005)
Juventus are threatening to run away with the Serie A title after thrashing Cagliari 4-0 for their 14th victory in 15 league matches. . . . more . . .
Giggs goal can't ease United gloom (Dec 11, 2005)
Ryan Giggs scored his first Premiership goal of the season but it wasn't enough to lift the gloom at Old Trafford as battling Everton earned a 1-1 draw to subject Manchester United to more disappointment following their European nightmare. . . . more . . .
Keane set for Real after passing medical (Dec 11, 2005)
Roy Keane is poised to join Real Madrid after passing a medical for the seven-time European champions, Spanish daily Marca has reported. . . . more . . .
Rummenigge blasts Juventus' mafia-style transfer policy (Dec 11, 2005)
Bayern Munich chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has claimed that Italian champions Juventus were acting like the mafia when trying to sign new players. . . . more . . .
Blatter insists Liverpool ready for World Club Championships (Dec 11, 2005)
FIFA president Sepp Blatter has insisted that Liverpool can win the World Club Championships, brushing aside concerns that they will be too tired to try. . . . more . . .
Benitez claims Liverpool nearing perfection (Dec 11, 2005)
Rafael Benitez claims Liverpool will fly out to the World Club Championship in Japan in near perfect shape after consolidating their position as the English Premiership's form team. . . . more . . .
Juve extend lead as Inter win Milan derby (Dec 11, 2005)
Juventus are threatening to run away with the Serie A title after they thrashed Cagliari 4-0 to stretch their lead at the top of the table to 10 points. . . . more . . .
Alleged fascist salute could spell more trouble for Di Canio (Dec 11, 2005)
Lazio striker Paolo Di Canio could find himself in trouble with the Italian football authorities once again after giving an alleged fascist salute in their Serie A match away to Livorno. . . . more . . .
Real hand Lopez Caro first win (Dec 11, 2005)
Real Madrid began Spanish championship life under Juan Ramon Lopez Caro, their fifth coach in the last two and a half years, with a 2-0 win at Malaga to go third in the table. . . . more . . .
New World Cup ball fails to produce fireworks (Dec 11, 2005)
Teamgeist, the high-tech 2006 World Cup ball, was kicked in anger for the very first time in the French first division tie between Saint Etienne and champions Lyon. . . . more . . .
We can win for Sven, insists Rooney (Dec 11, 2005)
Wayne Rooney has revealed that England are determined to win the World Cup for coach Sven-Goran Eriksson. . . . more . . .
Brilliant Ronaldinho keeps Barca top (Dec 11, 2005)
Brazilian World Cup star Ronaldinho brilliantly illustrated his status as European Footballer of the Year with a breathtaking goal which gave Barcelona a 2-1 win over Sevilla and kept his side on top of the Spanish league. . . . more . . .
Lovenkrands treble ends Rangers's winless run (Dec 11, 2005)
Peter Lovenkrands scored a hat-trick as Rangers ended their 10-game run without a victory in a 3-2 Scottish Premier League win away to Kilmarnock. . . . more . . .
Bayern crowned 'winter champions' with Kaiserslautern win (Dec 11, 2005)
Bayern Munich picked up the honorific title of 'winter champions' with a 2-1 win over Kaiserslautern but needed an inspirational penalty save from goalkeeper Oliver Kahn to secure the points. . . . more . . .
Make mine a triple says reprieved McLeish (Dec 10, 2005)
Alex McLeish leads Rangers into Sunday's Scottish Premier League clash with Kilmarnock with triple cause for celebration after the most eventful week of his managerial career. . . . more . . .
Queiroz tells United fans to be patient (Dec 10, 2005)
Manchester United assistant manager Carlos Queiroz has begged the club's fans to wait until the end of the season before delivering their verdict on the team's fortunes. . . . more . . .
Put faith in me or we could sink, says new Real coach (Dec 10, 2005)
New Real Madrid coach Juan Ramon Lopez Caro has told his star-studded squad they must put their trust in him as he takes the helm for the first time in La Liga since succeeding sacked Wanderley Lucemburgo in Malaga on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Netherlands and Argentina clash in World Cup 'Group of Death' (Dec 10, 2005)
An exciting clash between Argentina and the Netherlands looks set to be the high spot of the first round of the 2006 World Cup while holders Brazil will do battle with Australia and Japan. . . . more . . .
Angel answers Villa prayers against Bolton (Dec 10, 2005)
Juan Pablo Angel's first Premiership goal of the season rescued a point for Aston Villa as they denied Bolton Wanderers a fifth straight home Premiership win in a 1-1 draw at the Reebok Stadium. . . . more . . .
England's Ferdinand looks forward to Cup tie clash against Trinidad (Dec 10, 2005)
Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand believes England's World Cup group game against Trinidad and Tobago will have the atmosphere of an FA Cup tie. . . . more . . .
Al Ittihad hit by ban as they prepare to shatter Al Ahly winning streak (Dec 10, 2005)
Three Brazilian players from Asian champions Al Ittihad have been banned from the World Club Championships, hampering their chances of beating old enemy Al Ahly in the opening match on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Solano adds to Arsenal's away-day misery (Dec 10, 2005)
Peru's Nolberto Solano scored his first goal since returning to Newcastle United in the close season as they defeated 10-man Arsenal 1-0 at St James' Park. . . . more . . .
Fiore saves Toni's blushes as Fiorentina move up to second (Dec 10, 2005)
Fiorentina edged struggling Treviso 1-0 to move up to second in Italy's Serie A. . . . more . . .
Morientes puts Liverpool in seventh heaven (Dec 10, 2005)
Fernando Morientes has ensured Liverpool will head off to the World Club Championship in Japan in buoyant mood after the Spain striker's double secured a convincing victory - their seventh successive Premiership win - against Middlesbrough at Anfield. . . . more . . .
Lyon sitting pretty as challengers take a tumble (Dec 10, 2005)
Lyon may not play until Sunday but their prospects of landing a record fifth title improved considerably when their closest rivals tripped up badly. . . . more . . .
Riquelme inspires Villarreal as Bilbao frustrate Valencia (Dec 10, 2005)
Villarreal's Argentine playmaker Juan Roman scored a magnificent goal to set the seal on a come-from-behind 3-1 win at Real Sociedad to move his club into third place in La Liga. . . . more . . .
Wenger vents fury at Shearer (Dec 10, 2005)
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger launched a furious attack on former England skipper Alan Shearer after watching his side slip to a 1-0 defeat to Newcastle at St James' Park. . . . more . . .
Darrens end Charlton's barren run with win over clawless Black Cats (Dec 10, 2005)
Charlton ended a run of six successive defeats with a 2-0 victory over Premiership tailenders Sunderland and extend the Black Cats losing sequence to nine and inflict on them their 100th Premier League defeat. . . . more . . .
Kuqi crumbles in dramatic Blackburn win (Dec 10, 2005)
Substitute Shefki Kuqi struck a 76th minute winner as Blackburn Rovers came from behind to beat West Ham United 3-2 in an absorbing encounter at Ewood Park. . . . more . . .
Terry to the rescue again for champions (Dec 10, 2005)
Chelsea captain John Terry came to his side's rescue again as his second half winner gave the Premiership champions' a 1-0 victory over Wigan at Stamford Bridge. . . . more . . .
Hamburg march on as Marcelinho red-carded (Dec 10, 2005)
SV Hamburg closed to within one point of leaders Bayern Munich with a 2-1 home win over ten-man Hertha Berlin, although the German champions can restore their four-point cushion with victory over bottom side Kaiserslautern on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Celtic win five-goal thriller to stretch lead (Dec 10, 2005)
Celtic won a five-goal thriller at home to Hibernian to stretch their lead in the Scottish Premier League to three points. . . . more . . .
West Brom defeat stalls City's European charge (Dec 10, 2005)
Diomansy Kamara scored his first English Premiership goal of the season to help fire West Brom to a deserved 2-0 victory against high-flying Manchester City at the Hawthorns. . . . more . . .
Pardew blasts referee over Repka handball (Dec 10, 2005)
West Ham United manager Alan Pardew blasted referee Mike Riley after watching his side succumb 3-2 to a spirited Blackburn Rovers at Ewood Park. . . . more . . .
Athletic frustrate Valencia to bolster survival hopes (Dec 10, 2005)
Athletic Bilbao's hopes of avoiding relegation from the Spanish top flight received a boost in the shape of a 1-1 draw at high-riding Valencia. . . . more . . .
Dwight Yorke says Aussie spirit will carry them in Japan (Dec 09, 2005)
Former Manchester United goal machine Dwight Yorke believes the typical Aussie never-say-die attitude will see underdogs Sydney FC spring a surprise or two at the World Club Championships. . . . more . . .
Brazil the team to avoid in World Cup draw (Dec 09, 2005)
The eyes of the football world will be fixed on this eastern German city when the draw for next year's World Cup finals in Germany is made in a glittering ceremony. . . . more . . .
England set on cruise control (Dec 09, 2005)
Sven-Goran Eriksson will renew his rivalry with his home country after England were drawn to face Sweden in Group B at next summer's World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Gazza escapes assault charge (Dec 09, 2005)
Former England star Paul Gascoigne has escaped assault charges after a photographer withdrew his complaint he was attacked outside a Liverpool hotel. . . . more . . .
Ivory Coast striker in court battle for Holland World Cup slot (Dec 09, 2005)
Ivory Coast striker Salomon Kalou has edged nearer to playing for Holland in the 2006 World Cup after a court ordered the Immigration Minister Rita Verdonk to reconsider his request for naturalisation. . . . more . . .
Owen recalled by Newcastle (Dec 09, 2005)
England striker Michael Owen has been included in the Newcastle squad for Saturday's late kick-off Premiership match against Arsenal at St James' Park. . . . more . . .
Crisis-hit Turkish FA seeks vote of confidence (Dec 09, 2005)
The crisis-hit Turkish Football Association(TFF) called a vote of confidence following the violent scenes after Turkey's World Cup play-off against Switzerland here last month. . . . more . . .
Essien apologizes to Hamann for horror tackle (Dec 09, 2005)
Michael Essien apologized for the frightening tackle on Liverpool's Dietmar Hamann which led to the Chelsea midfielder being charged by European soccer governing body UEFA. . . . more . . .
Germany eye second round after favourable draw (Dec 09, 2005)
Three-time champions Germany will fancy their chances of making the second round of the World Cup finals next summer after being drawn against Costa Rica, neighbours Poland and Ecuador. . . . more . . .
Sven delighted to steer clear of Dutch and Aussies (Dec 09, 2005)
Sven-Goran Eriksson breathed a huge sigh of relief after the World Cup draw handed England a relatively easy first round group and spared his squad the prospect of facing either the Netherlands or traditional sporting adversaries Australia. . . . more . . .
Benfica files complaint over Ronaldo middle finger gesture (Dec 09, 2005)
Benfica have filed a complaint with UEFA against Manchester United's Cristiano Ronaldo for raising his middle finger and spitting towards fans of the Portuguese champions during their midweek Champions League match. . . . more . . .
Zenden out for the season (Dec 09, 2005)
Dutch midfielder Boudewijn Zenden has been ruled out for the rest of the season after learning he needs surgery to repair damage to the cruciate ligament in his right knee. . . . more . . .
Make mine a triple says reprieved McLeish (Dec 09, 2005)
Alex McLeish leads Rangers into Sunday's Scottish Premier League clash with Kilmarnock with triple cause for celebration after the most eventful week of his managerial career. . . . more . . .
Argentina and Netherlands clash in toughest group (Dec 09, 2005)
Two-time champions Argentina and the Netherlands will clash in Group C at the World Cup with Cote d'Ivoire and the dangerous Serbia and Montenegro making the section one of the toughest. . . . more . . .
United will recover from Euro exit vows Neville (Dec 09, 2005)
Manchester United captain Gary Neville has insisted the club will bounce back from Wednesday's Champions League exit at the hands of Portuguese giants Benfica. . . . more . . .
Survivor McLeish vows to turn things around (Dec 09, 2005)
Alex McLeish celebrated his reprieve from the sack by vowing to steer Rangers back to the top of Scottish football. . . . more . . .
Henry calls for Arsenal commitment (Dec 09, 2005)
Thierry Henry wants Arsenal to show the kind of commitment absent from last week's defeat away to Bolton when they travel to Newcastle on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Eriksson confident red mist will not descend on England in Germany (Dec 09, 2005)
Sven-Goran Eriksson insists he has no fear of England's World Cup being wrecked by red cards for short-fused duo David Beckham and Wayne Rooney. . . . more . . .
Ferguson faces Premiership battle to save his head (Dec 09, 2005)
Alex Ferguson was reported to have been told to win the English Premiership this season or step aside next summer. . . . more . . .
Tension mounts ahead of 2006 World Cup draw (Dec 09, 2005)
World Cup holders Brazil and the other 31 nations competing in next year's finals will learn their first-round opponents when the draw is made in a star-studded ceremony. . . . more . . .
Sao Paulo boss tips Al Ahly to topple Al Ittihad (Dec 09, 2005)
Paulo Autuori, coach of South American champions Sao Paulo, expects his side to face Africa's top club Al Ahly and not Asian heavyweights Al Ittihad in the World Club Championship semi-finals. . . . more . . .
Bring them on, says Henry (Dec 09, 2005)
Arsenal skipper Thierry Henry says France cannot hide at next year's World Cup. . . . more . . .
Football fan Merkel backs Germany (Dec 09, 2005)
German Chancellor Angela Merkel is putting her money on Germany exploiting its home advantage to win the 2006 World Cup. . . . more . . .
Mourinho wants Chelsea to show 'special mentality' (Dec 09, 2005)
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho wants his runaway league leaders to show the same kind of "special mentality" that served them so well during last December and January on their way to winning the title as they enter the busy holiday period. . . . more . . .
Essien charged over Hamann horror tackle (Dec 08, 2005)
Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien was charged with gross unsporting conduct after his challenge on Liverpool's Dietmar Hamann in Tuesday's Champions League tie. . . . more . . .
Fans clash with police before Napoli-AS Roma Cup tie (Dec 08, 2005)
There were clashes between rival fans and police Thursday ahead of Napoli's first leg game in the last 16 of the Italian Cup with AS Roma. . . . more . . .
Euro exit makes United less attractive to sponsors (Dec 08, 2005)
Attracting sponsors to Old Trafford is set to be much harder following Manchester United's elimination from the European Champions League, a sports marketing analyst said. . . . more . . .
The dummying down of Mourinho (Dec 08, 2005)
Master tactician Jose Mourinho could never be accused of being a dummy...until now that is. . . . more . . .
Diouf handed drink-driving ban (Dec 08, 2005)
Bolton's Senegal striker El-Hadji Diouf has been banned from driving for 12 months after being found guilty of a drink-driving offence. . . . more . . .
Former Chemnitz player Karl jailed for match-fixing (Dec 08, 2005)
Former FC Chemitz player Steffen Karl was jailed for nine months for his part in the match-fixing scandal that shook German football to its core. . . . more . . .
Klinsmann in Mourinho talks on Huth (Dec 08, 2005)
Germany manager Jurgen Klinsmann revealed he had flown to London to holds talk with Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho about the future of German defender Robert Huth. . . . more . . .
Beckham's nemesis Simeone to quit (Dec 08, 2005)
Former Argentinian international Diego Simeone, the man whose theatrical fall to the ground led to David Beckham's infamous red card at the 1998 World Cup, will quit in June next year. . . . more . . .
Reina counting on Reds teamwork to reel in Chelsea (Dec 08, 2005)
Liverpool goalkeeper Jose Reina believes the Anfield teamwork will help them catch runaway Premiership leaders Chelsea. . . . more . . .
McLeish to stay at Rangers (Dec 08, 2005)
Alex McLeish is to stay on as Rangers manager for the forseeable future, club chairman David Murray announced, confounding widespread expectations that the former Aberdeen and Scotland defender would be sacked. . . . more . . .
Henry calls for Arsenal commitment (Dec 08, 2005)
Thierry Henry wants Arsenal to show the kind of commitment absent from last week's defeat away to Bolton when they travel to Newcastle on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Redknapp wants Pompey to complete December treble (Dec 08, 2005)
Portsmouth manager Harry Redknapp believes the next three home games are crucial to the struggling south coast club's chances of Premiership survival. . . . more . . .
Glazers to stick with United (Dec 08, 2005)
Manchester United's owners will not walk away from the club following the English giants' exit from the European Champions League, a spokesman for the Glazer family said. . . . more . . .
Pele and Cruyff to help make World Cup draw (Dec 08, 2005)
Football legends Pele and Johan Cruyff are among the stars who will make the draw for the 2006 World Cup here on Friday in a glitzy show that will be broadcast to more than 140 countries. . . . more . . .
Brazil the draw no team wants says Beckenbauer (Dec 08, 2005)
Brazil are the team everyone else will want to avoid in Friday's 2006 World Cup draw here, according to West Germany's 1974 World Cup winner Franz Beckenbauer. . . . more . . .
Simple things in life that count: frustrated Henry (Dec 08, 2005)
Arsenal captain Thierry Henry has ordered his misfiring Gunners to stop the showboating and get back to basics to reignite their lingering English Premiership title hopes. . . . more . . .
Fergie vows to rebuild United -- if he gets the chance (Dec 08, 2005)
Sir Alex Ferguson has vowed that Manchester United will rise from the ashes of this season's disastrous Champions League campaign, brushing aside suggestions he may not be given the opportunity to complete the club's reconstruction as a force in European football. . . . more . . .
Asamoah hopes to avoid Ghana at World Cup draw (Dec 08, 2005)
German international striker Gerald Asamoah hopes Friday's 2006 World Cup draw does not pit him in the same group as his homeland Ghana. . . . more . . .
Werder coach Schaaf extends contract (Dec 08, 2005)
Werder Bremen coach Thomas Schaaf has extended his contract by two years till June 2008, the German first division club said. . . . more . . .
16 million pound probe into Redknapp betting spree (Dec 08, 2005)
Football Association officials have launched a probe into reports that 16 million pounds was bet on Harry Redknapp returning as manager of Premiership strugglers Portsmouth. . . . more . . .
England star could come from nowhere, says 1966 hero Hurst (Dec 08, 2005)
England's 1966 World Cup winning hero Geoff Hurst says the fringe players in Sven-Goran Eriksson's England squad can still have a major impact at the 2006 World Cup, just like he did 40 years ago. . . . more . . .
Red hot Dutch, Aussies and Americans: Eriksson's World Cup nightmare (Dec 08, 2005)
England head coach Sven-Goran Eriksson has named Australia as one of the teams he fears could make up a "Group of Death" when the World Cup draw is made in Leipzig on Friday. . . . more . . .
Argentine icon Maradona snubs World Cup draw (Dec 07, 2005)
Argentina's 1986 World Cup hero Diego Maradona has turned down an invitation to attend Friday's draw for the 2006 World Cup. . . . more . . .
Spot of bother for Henry as Ajax hold Arsenal (Dec 07, 2005)
Arsenal captain Thierry Henry's penalty miss cost the Gunners their perfect record in the Champions League this season when they drew 0-0 with Ajax at Highbury. . . . more . . .
MetroStars defender Agoos retires (Dec 07, 2005)
MetroStars defender Jeff Agoos, who won a league-record five Major League Soccer Cups, announced his retirement from football. . . . more . . .
Maritimo apologizes to Benfica player over racist abuse (Dec 07, 2005)
Portuguese premier league club Maritimo has apologized to Benfica's Angolan international Pedro Mantorras after he was the target of racist abuse during a weekend match held at the club's stadium. . . . more . . .
Pele and other stars unveiled for 2006 World Cup draw (Dec 07, 2005)
Football's world governing body FIFA has confirmed that an assortment of footballers from every football continent will help make the 2006 World Cup draw. . . . more . . .
Excitement grows as 2006 World Cup seeds revealed (Dec 07, 2005)
The tension ahead of Friday's World Cup draw has increased markedly with the release of the seeded teams for next year's football fiesta. . . . more . . .
Mourinho slams Benitez after Essien horror tackle (Dec 07, 2005)
Jose Mourinho insisted football's authorities treated him differently to everybody else after defending his part in the furore that followed Chelsea star Michael Essien's sickening tackle on Dietmar Hamann during the goalless Champions League draw with reigning champions Liverpool. . . . more . . .
Terry unruffled by Liverpool (Dec 07, 2005)
Liverpool may be reigning European champions but John Terry insists that Chelsea's supremacy over the Reds in the Premiership proves the London outfit are the better team. . . . more . . .
Crunch time for United (Dec 07, 2005)
Manchester United head for Lisbon hoping that memories of legend George Best will inspire them to a win over Benfica and book their ticket to the Champions League knockout round. . . . more . . .
Parreira wary of Germans (Dec 07, 2005)
Brazil coach Carlos Alberto Parreira believes host nation Germany will be their biggest obstacle to 2006 World Cup glory. . . . more . . .
Germany should not fear Netherlands draw: Beckenbauer (Dec 07, 2005)
West Germany's 1974 World Cup winner Franz Beckenbauer claims it would not be the end of the world if hosts Germany were in the same 2006 World Cup group as old foes the Netherlands. . . . more . . .
Japan supersub Oguro chased by Grenoble (Dec 07, 2005)
Japan international striker Masashi Oguro, who helped power Gamba Osaka to their first J-League title this month, is being hunted by French second-division side Grenoble. . . . more . . .
Lyon up stakes in FIFA fight over compensation (Dec 07, 2005)
French champions Lyon said they would sue FIFA over right-back Eric Abidal's broken foot sustained in France's friendly international against Costa Rica in November. . . . more . . .
Keane delays decision on future (Dec 07, 2005)
Former Manchester United skipper Roy Keane has yet to make his mind up about which club to join despite a string of offers from Real Madrid, Everton, Bolton and West Brom. . . . more . . .
Villarreal into last 16 at first attempt (Dec 07, 2005)
Villarreal qualified for the last 16 of the Champions League Wednesday with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Lille of France. . . . more . . .
FA hand Palace chairman suspended fine for ref barb (Dec 07, 2005)
The English Football Association (FA) has handed Crystal Palace chairman Simon Jordan a suspended 10,000-pound fine for criticising a referee in a Championship match. . . . more . . .
United crash out (Dec 07, 2005)
Manchester United's bid for a tenth consecutive appearance in the knockout stages of the Champions League was shattered by a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Benfica. . . . more . . .
Late collapse ends Udinese's European dream (Dec 07, 2005)
Udinese were denied a place in the knockout stages of the Champions League after they conceded twice in the last five minutes to lose 2-0 at home to Group E winners Barcelona. . . . more . . .
Bremen thank Barcelona for last 16 spot (Dec 07, 2005)
Werder Bremen could afford to send a message of thanks to Spanish giants Barcelona after the German outfit qualified for the last 16 of the Champions League with a 5-1 home win over Panathinaikos. . . . more . . .
Redknapp confirmed at Pompey (Dec 07, 2005)
Harry Redknapp has been named as the new manager of Portsmouth following agreement on a compensation package for his former club Southampton over his shock departure. . . . more . . .
FIFA grants Kenya two-month extension to end internal wrangling (Dec 07, 2005)
World football's governing body FIFA has granted the Kenyan Football Federation (KFF) a two-month extension to solve its internal problems after a three-month deadline expired. . . . more . . .
Mandaric welcomes Redknapp back 'home' at Pompey (Dec 07, 2005)
Harry Redknapp admitted he had been crazy to initially leave Fratton Park after being named the new manager of Portsmouth following agreement on a compensation package for his former club Southampton. . . . more . . .
Hasek appointed Al Wasl coach (Dec 07, 2005)
Former Czech international footballer and coach Ivan Hasek has signed a six month contract to coach Dubai-based club Al Wasl. . . . more . . .
World Cup stadia will be safe insist German organisers (Dec 07, 2005)
The organising committee (OK) for the 2006 World Cup in Germany insisted that construction problems which have plagued stadia in recent months were just minor hitches. . . . more . . .
Court blocks Corinthians title (Dec 07, 2005)
The Brazilian football federation (CBF) have been blocked from naming Corinthians league champions for 2005 by a court in the southern state of Rio Grande. . . . more . . .
Pekerman only coach absent for World Cup draw (Dec 07, 2005)
The coaches of the 32 nations that have qualified for the 2006 World Cup will all be at Friday's draw with the sole exception of Argentina manager Jose Pekerman. . . . more . . .
'Brilliant' Brazil World Cup favourites says Beckenbauer (Dec 07, 2005)
Germany icon Franz Beckenbauer claims Brazil are overwhelming favourites for the 2006 World Cup on the basis of their stellar peformances at the 2005 Confederations Cup. . . . more . . .
Fans get early chance to figure World Cup line-up (Dec 06, 2005)
Football fans will get the chance to do a little homework to figure out the line-up for the World Cup 2006 finals when the seedings for the draw will be revealed by the organising committee Tuesday. . . . more . . .
Ferguson refuses to contemplate United axe (Dec 06, 2005)
Sir Alex Ferguson has angrily brushed aside suggestions that his position as Manchester United manager will come under threat if his side crash out of the Champions League here on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
US coach Arena undaunted by World Cup seeding snub (Dec 06, 2005)
Unconcerned by a 2006 World Cup seeding snub, United States football coach Bruce Arena said he expected a difficult path for his squad no matter how Friday's draw develops. . . . more . . .
Drogba set for African Cup (Dec 06, 2005)
Chelsea star Didier Drogba will miss up to four weeks of the English Premiership season after he confirmed he would play for the Ivory Coast in the African Nations Cup in Egypt from January 18 to February 10. . . . more . . .
Rivaldo lifts Olympiakos to win over Real Madrid (Dec 06, 2005)
Brazilian striker Rivaldo scored with three minutes remaining in the match to give Olympiakos their first Group F Champions League win of the season, a 2-1 victory over a largely second-string Real Madrid team. . . . more . . .
Afghan footballers aim for high profile at South Asian showcase (Dec 06, 2005)
Afghanistan, where the Taliban once shaved the heads of a visiting football team for wearing shorts, is hoping to raise its profile in the eight-nation South Asian football tournament starting on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Minnows Burton to face Manchester United in FA Cup (Dec 06, 2005)
Non-league Burton Albion secured a dream FA Cup third round tie against Manchester United after a 4-1 home win against Burscough at the Pirelli Stadium. . . . more . . .
Gazza released on bail after hotel fight (Dec 06, 2005)
Former England star Paul Gascoigne has been released on bail after being questioned about an alleged attack on a photographer outside a Liverpool hotel. . . . more . . .
Wenger rules out Real job (Dec 06, 2005)
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger joined Jose Mourinho and Rafael Benitez in ruling himself out of the managerial vacancy at Spanish giants Real Madrid. . . . more . . .
Alpay hit with four-match ban (Dec 06, 2005)
FC Cologne's Turkish international Alpay Ozalan has received a four-match ban from the German Football Federation (DFB) for an ugly elbow incident in Saturday's 3-1 defeat at SV Hamburg. . . . more . . .
World Cup victory worth 19.1 million dollars (Dec 06, 2005)
The winners of the 2006 World Cup in Germany will take home 24.5 million Swiss Francs (19.1 million dollars) in prize money, FIFA general secretary Urs Linsi revealed. . . . more . . .
Koeman unfazed by Rooney threat (Dec 06, 2005)
Ronald Koeman insisted that Benfica would not be intimidated by the prospect of facing a Wayne Rooney-powered Manchester United in their decisive Champions League tie on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
More injury woes for Sunderland (Dec 06, 2005)
Sunderland boss Mick McCarthy was dealt a new blow when striker Chris Brown was ruled out for six weeks with an ankle injury. . . . more . . .
Champions Liverpool top group after Chelsea draw (Dec 06, 2005)
Reigning champions Liverpool finished top of Champions League Group G after a goalless draw away to English rivals and Premiership title-holders Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. . . . more . . .
Kaka's double helps AC Milan squeeze into last 16 (Dec 06, 2005)
AC Milan breathed a huge sigh of relief after squeezing into the knockout stages of the Champions League with a narrow 3-2 victory over Schalke 04 at the San Siro. . . . more . . .
PSV into last 16 with win over Fenerbahce (Dec 06, 2005)
Last year's semi-finalists PSV Eindhoven qualified for the last 16 of this season's Champions League with a convincing 2-0 win over Fenerbahce. . . . more . . .
Sacchi quits Real (Dec 06, 2005)
Two days after sacking coach Wanderley Luxemburgo, Real Madrid have lost their sporting director Arrigo Sacchi. . . . more . . .
Rangers make Scottish history with Inter draw (Dec 06, 2005)
Rangers made Scottish football history when they qualified from the group stages of the Champions League after a 1-1 draw at home to Inter Milan. . . . more . . .
Chelsea and Liverpool seek edge in 'dead' tie (Dec 06, 2005)
Reigning champions Liverpool and Chelsea may have already qualified for the second phase of the Champions League but the immense pride in both teams should ensure that there is still some passion in their 'meaningless' final group match at Stamford Bridge. . . . more . . .
Arsenal not going soft says Wenger (Dec 06, 2005)
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has insisted the Gunners are not easy prey on their travels following their 2-0 reverse away to Bolton last weekend. . . . more . . .
Gazza arrested after hotel fight (Dec 06, 2005)
Former England star Paul Gascoigne has been arrested after allegedly assaulting a photographer outside a Liverpool hotel. . . . more . . .
Milan and Rangers face moment of truth (Dec 06, 2005)
Six-time champions AC Milan and faltering Scottish giants Rangers face European Champions League elimination, a fate which could open the exit door for coaches Carlo Ancelotti and Alex McLeish. . . . more . . .
England among seeds for 2006 World Cup (Dec 06, 2005)
England have been named as one of the seeds for the 2006 World Cup final in Germany. . . . more . . .
Gazza rejects drink claims (Dec 06, 2005)
Former England star Paul Gascoigne defended his own conduct following his release on bail after being questioned about an alleged attack on a photographer outside a Liverpool hotel. . . . more . . .
Hammers compound Birmingham blues (Dec 05, 2005)
West Ham, inspired by a brilliant piece of individual trickery by Bobby Zamora, held on to secure their first ever Premiership victory over Birmingham. . . . more . . .
Acrimonious end to Gascoigne's short reign at Kettering (Dec 05, 2005)
Paul Gascoigne's short reign as manager of Conference side Kettering Town was ended with the club's new owner Imraan Ladak describing him as "under the influence of alcohol" and "unable to carry out his duties." . . . more . . .
Pearce praises Barton after dramatic week (Dec 05, 2005)
Manchester City boss Stuart Pearce singled out Joey Barton after the midfielder scored one of the goals in the 5-2 demolition of Charlton at The Valley. . . . more . . .
Chelsea not Real on Benitez's mind (Dec 05, 2005)
Rafael Benitez moved to reassure Liverpool fans that he is not interested in the managerial vacancy at Real Madrid, insisting he was concentrating entirely on Tuesday's Champions League trip to Chelsea. . . . more . . .
Door is open for Scolari to leave: Portuguese football chief (Dec 05, 2005)
Portuguese Football Federation chairman Gilberto Madail said that Luiz Felipe Scolari was free to leave the national football team after the Brazilian coach said he felt descriminated against in Portugal. . . . more . . .
Mourinho looking past Liverpool to Wigan in the Premiership (Dec 05, 2005)
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho insists that victory over Wigan in the English Premiership on Saturday would mean more to him than a in over Liverpool on Tuesday in the Champions League. . . . more . . .
Redknapp on brink of extraordinary Pompey comeback (Dec 05, 2005)
Portsmouth hope to unveil Harry Redknapp as their new manager on Tuesday and finally draw a line under one of the most extraordinary episodes in English football's recent history. . . . more . . .
Deisler slapped with three-match ban (Dec 05, 2005)
Bayern Munich's German international midfielder Sebastian Deisler has received a three-match Bundesliga suspension after kicking a rival during their game at VfB Stuttgart at the weekend, the German Football Federation (DFB) announced. . . . more . . .
England confident of pipping Holland in World World Cup pecking order (Dec 05, 2005)
Football Association officials are hopeful England will be among the top eight seeds for the 2006 World Cup to be announced by FIFA on Tuesday. . . . more . . .
Giggs confident United veterans can perform Euro trick (Dec 05, 2005)
Ryan Giggs is confident that Manchester United's experienced players can steer them into the knock-out stages of the Champions League. . . . more . . .
McLeish faces axe in defiant mood (Dec 05, 2005)
Rangers boss Alex McLeish headed into what may be his final match in charge of the Scottish champions in defiant mood, insisting his misfiring side can book their place in the Champions League knockout stage against Inter Milan on Tuesday. . . . more . . .
Electronically chipped ball ruled out for 2006 World Cup (Dec 05, 2005)
The much-heralded electronically chipped ball to help referee's make crucial goal-line calls will not be used at the 2006 World Cup finals in Germany. . . . more . . .
CAS orders FIFA to cut Roma transfer ban, lowers Mexes payout (Dec 05, 2005)
The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) ordered FIFA to cut its ban on transfers to AS Roma in a spat between the Italian club and French side Auxerre. . . . more . . .
Redknapp Pompey move in doubt after Saints reject compensation offer (Dec 05, 2005)
Harry Redknapp's planned return to Portsmouth was thrown into doubt on Monday after the club's offer of compensation to his former employers Southampton was rejected as "derisory." . . . more . . .
Luxemburgo becomes latest victim of Real's expectations (Dec 05, 2005)
Real Madrid sacked their Brazilian coach Wanderley Luxemburgo and replaced him temporarily with Juan Ramon Lopez Caro, previously coach of the Spanish giants' reserve team. . . . more . . .
Gascoigne leaves Kettering but vows to gain control (Dec 05, 2005)
Paul Gascoigne's short reign as manager of Conference side Kettering Town was ended with the club's new owner Imraan Ladak describing him as "unable to carry out his duties." . . . more . . .
Gascoigne leaves Kettering (Dec 05, 2005)
Paul Gascoigne's short reign as manager of Conference side Kettering Town was ended with the club's new owner Imraan Ladak describing him as "unable to carry out his duties." . . . more . . .
Capello relieved as Juve ride their luck to stretch lead (Dec 04, 2005)
Juventus coach Fabio Capello admitted his team were very fortunate to escape with a 2-1 victory at Fiorentina which stretched their lead at the top of Italy's Serie A to eight points. . . . more . . .
Racism row rumbles on amid Vieira abuse claims (Dec 04, 2005)
Juventus midfielder Emerson claimed teammate Patrick Vieira was racially abused by Fiorentina fans in Sunday's Serie A match away in Florence. . . . more . . .
Barcelona win again as Real axe Luxemburgo (Dec 04, 2005)
Champions Barcelona stayed top of the Spanish League after a comfortable 2-0 win over Villareal but their win was overshadowed when bitter rivals Real Madrid sacked coach Wanderley Luxemburgo. . . . more . . .
Celtic revival downs Dons (Dec 04, 2005)
Celtic remained a point clear at the top of the Scottish Premier League after coming from a goal behind to win 3-1 away to Aberdeen at Pittodrie. . . . more . . .
Woodward not ready for top Saints job (Dec 04, 2005)
England's former rugby supremo Sir Clive Woodward has dismissed speculation that he is set to replace Harry Redknapp as Southampton manager. . . . more . . .
Lyon tighten grip on title defence as Marseille struggle (Dec 04, 2005)
Goals from Brazilian Fred and Norwegian John Carew handed defending champions Lyon a 2-0 victory over a PSG team that failed to threaten in a match dominated by the wily skills of the home side's playmaker, Juninho. . . . more . . .
Cole strikes as five-star City beat Charlton (Dec 04, 2005)
Two goals from Andy Cole topped and tailed Manchester City's 5-2 win over Charlton at The Valley. . . . more . . .
Juve ride their luck before landing sucker punch (Dec 04, 2005)
Juventus saw the frame of their goal hit three times before escaping with a priceless 2-1 victory at Fiorentina. . . . more . . .
Injured Simao to miss Manchester United clash (Dec 04, 2005)
Benfica captain Simao will miss the club's' decisive Champions League Group D game against Manchester United on Wednesday due to a thigh injury, coach Ronald Koeman said. . . . more . . .
Pressure still on Souness after penalty reprieve (Dec 04, 2005)
Graeme Souness admits it is only a matter of time before his position comes under scrutiny again after Newcastle's 1-1 Premiership draw with Aston Villa. . . . more . . .
Furious Wenger slams misfiring Gunners (Dec 04, 2005)
Arsene Wenger delivered a damning verdict on Arsenal's performance after watching his side slump to a 2-0 defeat at Bolton that could have killed off any lingering hope they had of catching Chelsea in the Premiership title race. . . . more . . .
Eto'o closes on African award hat-trick (Dec 04, 2005)
Cameroon striker Samuel Eto'o edged closer to a third consecutive African Footballer of the Year award when he was named among three finalists. . . . more . . .
Bolton look to impress Keane (Dec 04, 2005)
Bolton manager Sam Allardyce has said he was counting on the Premiership side's recent run of success to help lure former Manchester United skipper Roy Keane. . . . more . . .
Real Madrid set to sack Luxemburgo (Dec 04, 2005)
Real Madrid are set to sack their Brazilian coach Wanderley Luxemburgo after an emergency meeting of club bosses here. . . . more . . .
Best's son thanks N. Ireland for football hero father's farewell (Dec 03, 2005)
George Best's son Calum thanked the "amazing" people of Northern Ireland, returning the warmth shown to his football legend father during an emotionally-charged funeral for the province's sporting idol. . . . more . . .
Rangers make it nine games without a win (Dec 03, 2005)
Rangers made it nine games without a win and fell to fifth place in the Scottish Premier League when they threw away a two goal advantage to draw 2-2 at home to Falkirk. . . . more . . .
Crouch brace claims backed by Benitez (Dec 03, 2005)
His first may have been contentious but nothing could take away Peter Crouch's joy at finally ending his Liverpool duck with two goals against Wigan at Anfield. . . . more . . .
Bayern want to extend Magath contract (Dec 03, 2005)
Bayern Munich chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge admits the club are keen to extend the contract of manager Felix Magath beyond its June 2007 expiry date. . . . more . . .
Carrick fires Spurs past unlucky 'Black Cats' (Dec 03, 2005)
Highly-rated midfielder Michael Carrick scored the decisive goal to give Spurs the edge in a five goal thriller sending Sunderland to their ninth successive defeat in all competitions. . . . more . . .
Schwarzer dreaming of Ashes revenge on England at World Cup (Dec 03, 2005)
Mark Schwarzer would relish the opportunity to restore Australia's sporting pride in a clash with England at next summer's World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Chievo dent AC Milan's title hopes (Dec 03, 2005)
AC Milan's hopes of catching Serie A leaders Juventus suffered a major setback after they went down to a shock 2-1 defeat at plucky Chievo. . . . more . . .
Emotions run high as United return to second (Dec 03, 2005)
Manchester United returned to second in the English Premiership on an emotional afternoon at Old Trafford following a 3-0 thrashing of Portsmouth. . . . more . . .
New red-card shame for Beckham (Dec 03, 2005)
England skipper David Beckham was sent-off for the third time in two months as Real Madrid edged Getafe 1-0 in the Spanish league. . . . more . . .
McLeish hints at exit as Rangers hit new low (Dec 03, 2005)
Rangers manager Alex McLeish admits fans were right to boo after his team threw away a two-goal lead to draw with Falkirk on Saturday which leaves the Scottish giants without a win in their last nine matches, the worst run in their 132 year history. . . . more . . .
Four wins from five sees Everton pull clear of the drop (Dec 03, 2005)
Everton continued their recovery from a disastrous start to the season with a comprehensive 2-0 win over 10-man Blackburn at Ewood Park. . . . more . . .
Hamburg close on Bayern but unruly fans spoil day (Dec 03, 2005)
SV Hamburg moved to within four points of Bayern Munich at the top of the Bundesliga with a 3-1 win over FC Cologne but the game was marred when Hamburg's Alexander Laas was injured by missiles thrown from the crowd. . . . more . . .
Ten-man Fulham frustrate Baggies (Dec 03, 2005)
Fulham held out for the entire second half with ten men to earn a point against fellow Premiership strugglers West Brom. . . . more . . .
Redknapp walks out on Saints (Dec 03, 2005)
Southampton manager Harry Redknapp has walked out on the club following their refusal to let him discuss a move back to Portsmouth, Saints chairman Rupert Lowe has announced. . . . more . . .
Northern Ireland bids tearful farewell to football hero Best (Dec 03, 2005)
Tens of thousands of mourners packed the rain-soaked streets of Belfast to bid an emotional farewell to George Best, the dazzling football legend who was Northern Ireland's most famous son. . . . more . . .
Doncaster land Gunners after Villa heroics (Dec 03, 2005)
Giantkillers Doncaster were rewarded with a home draw to Premiership giants Arsenal when the League Cup quarter-final draw was made here. . . . more . . .
Keane in talks with Celtic (Dec 03, 2005)
Departing Manchester United skipper Roy Keane has discussed a move to Celtic with club officials and will tell them next week if he is to make the move to Scotland. . . . more . . .
Beckham in hot water after seeing red again (Dec 03, 2005)
England captain David Beckham's suitability to lead his country was again being called into question after he was sent off for the seventh time of his career during Real Madrid's 1-0 victory over Getafe at the Bernabeu. . . . more . . .
No excuses from Ancelotti as Chievo dent AC Milan's title hopes (Dec 03, 2005)
AC Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti admitted his side fully deserved their shock 2-1 defeat at Chievo which put a massive dent in their Serie A title hopes. . . . more . . .
Terry keeps Chelsea clear of chasing pack (Dec 03, 2005)
Chelsea captain John Terry ensured his side's total domination reaped its just reward when his header earned the champions a 1-0 win over Middlesbrough. . . . more . . .
Stelios sinks dagger into heart of Gunners title bid (Dec 03, 2005)
Stelios Giannakopoulos inspired Bolton to a famous and thoroughly deserved 2-0 victory over Arsenal. . . . more . . .
Right said Fred as Lyon tighten grip on title defence (Dec 03, 2005)
Goals from Brazilian Fred and Norwegian John Carew handed defending champions Lyon a 2-0 victory over a PSG team that failed to threaten in a match dominated by the wily skills of the home side's playmaker, Juninho. . . . more . . .
Souness reprieved by Barry's penalty blunder (Dec 03, 2005)
Embattled Newcastle boss Graeme Souness was spared a job-threatening defeat when Aston Villa's Gareth Barry blasted an 88th-minute penalty over the bar in a 1-1 draw at St James' Park. . . . more . . .
Best's body back home in Belfast on eve of funeral (Dec 02, 2005)
The body of football legend George Best was back at his family's home in east Belfast on the eve of a giant funeral expected to be the biggest Northern Ireland has ever seen. . . . more . . .
City back Barton after brother jailed for murder (Dec 02, 2005)
Manchester City manager Stuart Pearce believes midfielder Joey Barton will be able to cope with the trauma of seeing his brother jailed for a racist murder. . . . more . . .
Harry set to hand over to Sir Clive at Saints (Dec 02, 2005)
Southampton manager Harry Redknapp was considering a return to Premiership strugglers Portsmouth that could leave former England rugby coach Sir Clive Woodward in charge of the Championship club. . . . more . . .
English FA defend Cahill ban (Dec 02, 2005)
The English Football Association (FA) defended its decision to hand Everton's Australian midfielder Tim Cahill a three-match ban after coming under fire from Blues boss David Moyes. . . . more . . .
Hammers target Barcelona ace Lopez (Dec 02, 2005)
West Ham, who failed to lure South African striker Benni McCarthy to Upton Park in the summer, have made Barcelona's Argentinian striker Maxi Lopez a target when the transfer window reopens in January. . . . more . . .
Neville succeeds Keane as United captain (Dec 02, 2005)
Gary Neville has been appointed as Manchester United's new captain following last month's shock departure of Roy Keane, United boss Alex Ferguson announced. . . . more . . .
Ruud wants home comforts (Dec 02, 2005)
Ruud van Nistelrooy has warned his Manchester United team-mates that they must improve their home record if they are to stand a chance of catching runaway Premiership leaders Chelsea. . . . more . . .
Allardyce hails 'smoking good' Faye (Dec 02, 2005)
Bolton manager Sam Allardyce has said Abdoulaye Faye does such a good work of protecting the back line the defenders can afford to take cigarette breaks. . . . more . . .
Solskjaer set for surprise United return (Dec 02, 2005)
Norwegian striker Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is set to make a surprise comeback in Manchester United's reserve-team clash against Liverpool on Monday. . . . more . . .
Hleb set for Champions League comeback (Dec 02, 2005)
Arsenal midfielder Alexander Hleb is set to make his return from injury in next week's Champions League tie against Ajax. . . . more . . .
Nelsen glad to see back of Socceroos (Dec 02, 2005)
New Zealand captain Ryan Nelsen has admitted he will be glad to see the back of Australia when the Socceroos quit the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC). . . . more . . .
Kerr and Sanchez added to Pompey list (Dec 02, 2005)
Portsmouth's search for a new manager took a fresh twist when Northern Ireland manager Lawrie Sanchez and former Republic of Ireland boss Brian Kerr were added to the list of candidates. . . . more . . .
Northern Ireland bids tearful farewell to hero George Best (Dec 02, 2005)
Tens of thousands of mourners packed the rain-soaked streets of Belfast to say an emotional farewell to Northern Ireland's favourite son George Best. . . . more . . .
Gerrard excited by prospect of new signings (Dec 02, 2005)
Steven Gerrard has told Liverpool fans to expect some new "special players" at Anfield during the January transfer window as the European champions look to consolidate their recent good form. . . . more . . .
Cregagh estate says goodbye to Best, the Belfast Boy (Dec 02, 2005)
On East Belfast's bleak Cregagh estate, thousands of locals braved pouring rain to descend from high-rise concrete flats to say a tearful goodbye to their very own famous and beloved son, George Best. . . . more . . .
Spanish international Xavi out for six months with knee injury (Dec 02, 2005)
Barcelona's Spanish international Xavi will be out of football for six months after tearing ligaments in his right knee during training. . . . more . . .
Serb Vucicevic banned for taking anti-baldness drug (Dec 02, 2005)
Serbia-Montenegro striker Nemanja Vucicevic has been banned for six months by the German football federation for taking a prohibited substance used for treating baldness. . . . more . . .
Everton in talks with Keane (Dec 02, 2005)
Everton boss David Moyes confirmed that the club have held talks with former Manchester United captain Roy Keane. . . . more . . .
Best's body arrives on Northern Irish home soil on eve of funeral (Dec 02, 2005)
The body of football legend George Best has arrived on his home soil of Northern Ireland on the eve of a mass funeral through the streets of Belfast to be attended by numerous soccer greats. . . . more . . .
Redknapp set to hand over to Sir Clive at Saints (Dec 02, 2005)
Southampton manager Harry Redknapp was set to return to Premiership strugglers Portsmouth and leave former England rugby coach Sir Clive Woodward in charge of the Championship club. . . . more . . .
Ballack not going to Chelsea insists boss Mourinho (Dec 02, 2005)
Bayern Munich midfielder Michael Ballack will not be signing for Chelsea in the January transfer window after Blues boss Jose Mourinho said he would not be buying any players mid-season. . . . more . . .
Under-fire Souness vows: 'I won't quit' (Dec 02, 2005)
Under-fire Newcastle boss Graeme Souness has ruled out quitting his job, 24 hours before a Premiership showdown with Aston Villa in which a defeat would be expected to trigger his sacking. . . . more . . .
Former Lyon boss Le Guen linked with Rangers (Dec 02, 2005)
Former Lyon coach Paul Le Guen was reported to be ready to take over at under-achieving Scottish giants Rangers. . . . more . . .
Vietnam, Thailand set up rematch in SEA Games football final (Dec 02, 2005)
Thailand and Vietnam will face off in the Southeast Asian Games football final on Sunday, in a repeat of the 2003 edition. . . . more . . .
Striker Winothai powers Thai win over Indonesia (Dec 02, 2005)
Defending champions Thailand beat Indonesia 3-1 to advance to the final of the Southeast Asian Games football. . . . more . . .
AFC chief rules out changing player of year criteria despite fiasco (Dec 01, 2005)
Asian Football Confederation (AFC) president Mohammed bin Hammam refused to consider changing controversial rules that prevented Asia's top stars from being crowned player of the year. . . . more . . .
Faye signs permanent deal at Bolton (Dec 01, 2005)
Abdoulaye Faye, the Senegal midfielder who joined Bolton at the beginning of the season on loan from French club Lens, has signed a permanent deal at the English Premiership club. . . . more . . .
Electronically chipped ball for World Cup? Decision in March 2006 (Dec 01, 2005)
Football's world governing body FIFA will wait until March next year before deciding whether to use an electronically chipped ball at the 2006 World Cup finals in Germany. . . . more . . .
Turkey expects 'serious sanction' over Swiss match trouble (Dec 01, 2005)
The head of the Turkish Football Association said he expects a "serious sanction" from the sport's top body FIFA for the violence that marred Turkey's World Cup play-off game here with Switzerland last month. . . . more . . .
Eight of 32 teams decide World Cup base (Dec 01, 2005)
With the 2006 World Cup in Germany six months away the 32 finalists are weighing up where to have their base for the finals, running from June 9 until July 9. . . . more . . .
Cash-strapped Benfica ready to sell stadium name for right price (Dec 01, 2005)
Portuguese champions Benfica will sell the name of their new Lisbon stadium if offered at least five million euros (5.9 million US dollars) per year, the chief executive officer of the cash-strapped club has said. . . . more . . .
Blades boss turns down Pompey move (Dec 01, 2005)
Sheffield United manager Neil Warnock has turned down a move to Premiership relegation-battlers Portsmouth in favour of continuing the Blades' bid for promotion from the Championship. . . . more . . .
West Brom confirm Keane talks (Dec 01, 2005)
West Bromwich Albion manager Bryan Robson confirmed he's spoken to Roy Keane as the race to sign the former Manchester United captain intensified. . . . more . . .
Kerr and Sanchez added to Pompey list (Dec 01, 2005)
Portsmouth's search for a new manager took a fresh twist when Northern Ireland manager Lawrie Sanchez and former Republic of Ireland boss Brian Kerr were added to the list of candidates. . . . more . . .
Japan still have Wenger on their mind (Dec 01, 2005)
Japan's football chief plans to watch Arsenal play this weekend even though Japanese dreams of acquiring the Gunners' boss Arsene Wenger for their 2010 World Cup campaign look increasingly bleak. . . . more . . .
Cahill handed three-game ban (Dec 01, 2005)
Australia's Tim Cahill was given a three-match ban by the Football Association(FA) after losing his appeal against a violent conduct charge. . . . more . . .
Crowd trouble mars Italian Cup tie between Fiorentina, Juventus (Dec 01, 2005)
Fiorentina and Juventus players were forced off the pitch at the start of the second half of their Italian Cup tie here after police fired tear gas to disperse groups of rival supporters. . . . more . . .
Holders CSKA face UEFA Cup exit (Dec 01, 2005)
Defending UEFA Cup champions CSKA Moscow slumped to a 1-0 defeat at Dinamo Bucharest to leave their hopes of making it through to the next round hanging in the balance. . . . more . . .
Warnock no to Pompey as Redknapp becomes top target (Dec 01, 2005)
Sheffield United manager Neil Warnock rejected an offer to move to Premiership relegation-battlers Portsmouth in favour of continuing to lead the Blades' bid for promotion from the Championship. . . . more . . .
Warnock no to Pompey triggers shock move for Redknapp (Dec 01, 2005)
Sheffield United manager Neil Warnock turned down a move to Premiership relegation-battlers Portsmouth in favour of continuing to lead the Blades' bid for promotion from the Championship. . . . more . . .
Steel city braces for biggest derby in years (Dec 01, 2005)
Think of cities with big local derbies in Britain and Glasgow, Liverpool and Manchester all spring immediately to mind. . . . more . . .
