Archive soccer news from around the world
Shevchenko on verge of Chelsea deal (May 31, 2006)
Andriy Shevchenko on the verge of becoming Chelsea's most expensive signing to date after being given permission by AC Milan to open talks on a move to London. . . . more . . .
Scholes will be back: Ferguson (May 31, 2006)
As Manchester United embark on a close season search for a midfield enforcer for next season they can at least looked forward to the return of Paul Scholes, according to manager Sir Alex Ferguson. . . . more . . .
Shevchenko signs for Chelsea in club record deal (May 31, 2006)
Chelsea have signed Ukrainian striker Andriy Shevchenko from AC Milan on a four-year deal for a club record fee, the English Premiership champions announced. . . . more . . .
Gerrard happy to fill Rooney role (May 31, 2006)
Steven Gerrard insists he is ready and willing to fill the gap left by Wayne Rooney and play as England's emergency striker at the World Cup. . . . more . . .
Mourinho wants Roberto Carlos, world's best defender (May 31, 2006)
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho said he wants Real Madrid's Brazilian international Roberto Carlos to join the English champions next year because the 33-year-old is the world's best defender. . . . more . . .
Italy fail to find their feet in draw against Switzerland (May 31, 2006)
Italy looked uninspired during a 1-1 draw against Switzerland in a largely experimental World Cup warm-up where both sides substituted six players during the second half. . . . more . . .
Italy coach angered by strong-arm Swiss (May 31, 2006)
Italy coach Marcello Lippi slammed Switzerland's tough tackling after watching his side held to a 1-1 draw in a World Cup warm-up match. . . . more . . .
Germany's Lahm to return against Colombia (May 31, 2006)
German international left back Philipp Lahm is poised to make his comeback in Friday's friendly match against Colombia, manager Jurgen Klinsmann said. . . . more . . .
Knee injury rules Edmilson out of World Cup (May 31, 2006)
Brazilian international defensive midfielder Edmilson has been ruled out of the World Cup with a ruptured left kneecap, team doctor for the defending world champions Jose Luis Runco confirmed. . . . more . . .
Germany ready for World Cup visitors, says interior minister (May 31, 2006)
Germany will use the World Cup to show the world it is a peaceful country where foreign visitors need have no fear of racist attack, Interior Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble said. . . . more . . .
China warns fans to avoid World Cup hooligans (May 31, 2006)
China has warned its football fans to stay away from hooligans and avoid drinking establishments at the World Cup in Germany. . . . more . . .
Hope and doubt for Japan ahead of World Cup (May 31, 2006)
Japan's 2-2 draw against powerhouse Germany has given the Asian champions a moral boost but also a reason for soul-searching ahead of their World Cup matches. . . . more . . .
Del Horno to miss World Cup after Spain ask FIFA for replacement (May 31, 2006)
Spain have asked football's world governing body for permission to replace injured full-back Asier del Horno in their World Cup squad, FIFA confirmed. . . . more . . .
Scandal threatens to derail Italian World Cup hopes (May 31, 2006)
The scandal threatening to bring Italian football to its knees is now starting to affect the national team's World Cup preparations, according to the Italian press. . . . more . . .
Ljungberg fights off injury to train with Swedish team (May 31, 2006)
Sweden and Arsenal midfielder Fredrik Ljungberg fought off a foot injury to take part in his first training session with his country's World Cup squad, the Swedish Football Association said. . . . more . . .
Croatia, Hungary hand over joint candidacy file for Euro 2012 (May 31, 2006)
Croatia and Hungary handed over to UEFA documents needed for their joint bid to host the Euro 2012 football tournament, Croatia's Football Federation spokesman said. . . . more . . .
Security in place for World Cup but German team under fire (May 31, 2006)
The German government played down fears next month's World Cup could be scarred by racist attacks on visiting fans as the host nation's football team was savaged in the press. . . . more . . .
Henry and Wiltord on target as France beat Denmark (May 31, 2006)
Goals in either half from Thierry Henry and Sylvain Wiltord boosted home hopes of World Cup success this summer with a 2-0 warm-up friendly win over Denmark in northern France. . . . more . . .
Ljungberg back on track after foot injury (May 31, 2006)
Sweden midfielder Fredrik Ljungberg resumed training after recovering from a foot problem and should be ready to play in Sweden's last World Cup warm-up friendly against Chile on Friday. . . . more . . .
France on the right path for Germany (May 31, 2006)
The mood in the France camp was distinctly upbeat after a confidence-boosting 2-0 win over a well-organised Denmark side in their penultimate World Cup warm-up match. . . . more . . .
Saudi Arabia crash to Turkey in World Cup warm-up (May 31, 2006)
Saudi Arabia did themselves no favours in a warm-up game for the World Cup, crashing to a 1-0 defeat to Turkey. . . . more . . .
Cafu the key for Brazilian World Cup hopes (May 31, 2006)
Despite the attacking gems at Brazil's disposal it is veteran defender Cafu who continues to impress coach Carlos Alberto Parreira ahead of the World Cup. . . . more . . .
Owen and Crouch backed to overcome Rooney absence (May 30, 2006)
Michael Owen and Peter Crouch have been backed to make up for the loss of Wayne Rooney by scoring the goals to take England to World Cup glory in Germany. . . . more . . .
Nakata tells Japan to get serious (May 30, 2006)
Japan midfielder Hidetoshi Nakata is telling his team-mates to get serious ahead of a pre-World Cup friendly with hosts Germany. . . . more . . .
Santa Cruz battling to be fit for England game (May 30, 2006)
Paraguay's star striker Roque Santa Cruz is nearing full fitness from a injured right knee but is still unable to play a full part in training, the team doctor has said. . . . more . . .
French fans optimistic for World Cup hopes (May 30, 2006)
Reports of dissension within France's World Cup squad has failed to douse public enthusiasm with over 50 percent of fans canvassed in an opinion poll saying the team would at least reach the semi-finals. . . . more . . .
German Jewish group to protest during Iran World Cup match (May 30, 2006)
The Central Council of Jews in Germany is planning to hold a protest at the World Cup football match between Iran and Mexico in Nuremberg on June 11, the German press reported. . . . more . . .
Cahill boost for Australia (May 30, 2006)
Australian midfielder Tim Cahill has completed a first full training session since he badly injured his right knee on April 22. . . . more . . .
Injury doubts over Trinidad and Tobago stalwart Andrews (May 30, 2006)
Trinidad and Tobago coach Leo Beenhakker has expressed concern over the fitness of his veteran central defender Marvin Andrews. . . . more . . .
Jordan to sue Dowie over Charlton move (May 30, 2006)
Crystal Palace chairman Simon Jordan is suing former manager Iain Dowie after he joined south London rivals Charlton, just a week after walking out at Selhurst Park. . . . more . . .
Vieira back to full fitness for World Cup (May 30, 2006)
France midfielder Patrick Vieira has vowed he will be fighting fit for the World Cup after a season marred by injury. . . . more . . .
Van Basten calms van der Vaart fears (May 30, 2006)
Netherlands coach Marco van Basten insisted there was nothing to worry about after attacking midfielder Rafael van der Vaart missed training with an ankle injury. . . . more . . .
Chelsea swoop to sign Kalou (May 30, 2006)
Ivory Coast-born striker Salomon Kalou has become big-spending Chelsea's second signing of the close season after his Dutch club Feyenoord agreed to sell him to the English Premiership giants. . . . more . . .
World Cup testers for England and Germany (May 30, 2006)
With the World Cup kicking off in Munich in under two weeks, England were facing Hungary in their penultimate warm-up game on Tuesday with all eyes on striker Michael Owen after he suffered an injury scare. . . . more . . .
Togo worried by chicken-pox and cold weather (May 30, 2006)
Togo's World Cup preparations have been hit by cold weather and a chicken-pox scare, according to the country's team doctor. . . . more . . .
Portuguese parliament changes schedule for key World Cup match (May 30, 2006)
Portugal's lawmakers said they had changed their schedule on the day of a key World Cup match between the country and Mexico next month so that members of parliament could watch the game. . . . more . . .
Totti to make comeback in Swiss friendly (May 30, 2006)
Midfielder Francesco Totti will make his comeback from a broken bone in his left leg suffered in February in Italy's World Cup warm-up game against Switzerland, coach Marcello Lippi said. . . . more . . .
Paraguay striker Valdez joins Dortmund (May 30, 2006)
Paraguayan international striker Nelson Haedo Valdez has signed a four-year contract with German club Borussia Dortmund after Werder Bremen finally accepted a 4.7-million-euro bid. . . . more . . .
Chelsea fined over conduct of players during Fulham loss (May 30, 2006)
English football's governing body, the FA, fined Premiership champions Chelsea 10,000 pounds for the behaviour of their players in March's match at Fulham. . . . more . . .
Red Bull denies 120-million-dollar offer for Ronaldo (May 30, 2006)
The Austrian maker of the energy drink Red Bull denied reports that it had offered Brazilian striker Ronaldo a 10-year contract worth 120 million dollars to play for US club Red Bull New York. . . . more . . .
English football hooligans forced to hand over passports (May 30, 2006)
More than 3,000 English football hooligans were due to have handed over their passports to police to prevent them travelling to the World Cup in Germany. . . . more . . .
Atletico snap up former Porto pair from Dynamo Moscow (May 30, 2006)
Atletico Madrid have raided Dynamo Moscow's defensive ranks to sign Portugal's holding midfielder Costinha and Greek defender Georgios Seitaridis. . . . more . . .
Germany scramble draw against Japan (May 30, 2006)
World Cup hosts Germany needed a late comeback to salvage a 2-2 draw against Japan in a warm-up for the finals. . . . more . . .
Brazil enjoy shooting practice in Switzerland (May 30, 2006)
Brazil warmed up for the World Cup with a comfortable 8-0 thrashing of Swiss second division team Lucerne. . . . more . . .
New-look England off to a winning start (May 30, 2006)
England's new look was good enough to secure a 3-1 win over Hungary without quite convincing that it will resemble the finished article in time for the World Cup. . . . more . . .
Argentina too pacy and clever for Angola (May 30, 2006)
Argentina produced an impressive display to defeat a weak Angola team 2-0 in the South Americans' final warm-up match before the World Cup from June 9-July 9. . . . more . . .
Ten-man Ivory Coast hold Chile to draw (May 30, 2006)
Ivory Coast warmed up for the World Cup with a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Chile in a bruising encounter that saw the Africans finish with 10 men. . . . more . . .
England can win World Cup without Rooney: Ferdinand (May 29, 2006)
Rio Ferdinand has insisted that England can still win the World Cup this summer, even if Wayne Rooney fails to make the plane for Germany. . . . more . . .
Wounded Germany braced for Japan World Cup test (May 29, 2006)
The national coaches of Germany and Japan have stated their intention to lift the World Cup on July 9 and both Jurgen Klinsmann and Zico have a chance to assess their team's progress on Tuesday when they face off in a friendly match at the BayArena. . . . more . . .
Relax and mention the war: World Cup advice to Germans (May 29, 2006)
Germans are being encouraged to loosen up and even discuss World War II in a bid to change their image when a million foreign visitors pour into the country for the football World Cup finals which kick off next week. . . . more . . .
Ljungberg continues foot rehab (May 29, 2006)
Swedish star and Arsenal midfielder Freddie Ljungberg is continuing rehabilitation training of his injured right foot at a gym in Stockholm, Swedish news agency TT said. . . . more . . .
US players take final break before World Cup departure (May 29, 2006)
US World Cup players began a three-day rest break before their Thursday departure for Germany and their date with destiny in the global football showdown. . . . more . . .
New date set for Rooney foot scan (May 29, 2006)
England are to keep their options open on Wayne Rooney's injured foot bringing forward to June 7, the next assessment scan on the injury. . . . more . . .
Dortmund strike deal to buy back stadium (May 29, 2006)
Six-time German champions Borussia Dortmund have taken an important step towards financial stability when they reached a deal to buy back their stadium from the Molsiris group, who had been leasing the venue since 2004. . . . more . . .
Rooney to travel with England ahead of scan (May 29, 2006)
Wayne Rooney will travel to Germany with the England squad on Monday before returning home two days later for a scan on his injured foot. . . . more . . .
Ghana post morale-boosting win over Jamaica (May 29, 2006)
Ghana did much to put memories of their disappointing African Nations Cup campaign behind them as they continued their preparations for the World Cup with a morale-boosting 4-1 win over Jamaica. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo eyes playing future in US, but not just yet (May 29, 2006)
Brazilian striker Ronaldo said he could envisage playing in the United States in the future but was for the present focused only on his country's defence of the World Cup. . . . more . . .
Torres' talent threatens to outshine Spain icon Raul (May 28, 2006)
Real Madrid icon Raul is already playing catch-up in Spain's pre-World Cup goalscoring and popularity charts with his cross-city rival at Atletico, Fernando Torres. . . . more . . .
Full-time management behind me says Venables (May 28, 2006)
Terry Venables claimed he was too old for full-time management and that was why he turned down the chance to succeed Steve McClaren at Middlesbrough, the News of the World reported. . . . more . . .
Zidane outraged by 'scandalous' jeering of Barthez (May 28, 2006)
France skipper Zinedine Zidane lashed out at fans who "scandalously" jeered and whistled team-mates including goalkeeper Fabien Barthez during Saturday's friendly win over Mexico. . . . more . . .
Italy's Zambrotta injured (May 28, 2006)
Italy left back Gianluca Zambrotta injured his right thigh during a training match at the national team's training base at Coverciano, team doctors said. . . . more . . .
Australia's Aloisi fit for Dutch warm-up match (May 28, 2006)
Striker John Aloisi said he would be fit to play in Australia's World Cup warm-up match against the Netherlands in Rotterdam next weekend. . . . more . . .
Ronaldinho has double vision of World Cup, Champions League (May 28, 2006)
Brazil star Ronaldinho wants to complete a dream season by adding a World Cup winners' medal to his Champions League crown with Barcelona. . . . more . . .
Cisse expecting to quit Liverpool before World Cup (May 28, 2006)
Liverpool striker Djibril Cisse said he is hoping to settle his future before the World Cup amid speculation that he could return to French football. . . . more . . .
Spain coach Aragones fears another World Cup flop (May 28, 2006)
Spain coach Luis Aragones fears his team could be heading for another World Cup of under-achievement after a disappointing 0-0 draw with Russia. . . . more . . .
Klinsmann urges caution after Germany pole-axe Luxembourg (May 28, 2006)
Jurgen Klinsmann was refusing to get carried away after Germany's 7-0 thrashing of Luxembourg in a World Cup warm-up on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Ballack and Huth set to miss Japan game (May 28, 2006)
Germany captain Michael Ballack and defender Roberth Huth are both doubtful for the World Cup warm-up against Japan at Leverkusen through injury, team chiefs said. . . . more . . .
France edge Mexico in World Cup prep (May 27, 2006)
Florent Malouda helped France to a 1-0 win over Mexico in a lively World Cup warm-up game at the Stade de France. . . . more . . .
Venables turns down Middlesbrough job: report (May 27, 2006)
Former England manager Terry Venables has turned down the chance to join Middlesbrough when press reports had claimed the UEFA Cup finalists were about to name him as the new boss. . . . more . . .
Ivory Coast impress Swiss coach in World Cup warm-up (May 27, 2006)
Ivory Coast came from behind to register a deserved 1-1 draw against fellow World Cup qualifiers Switzerland. . . . more . . .
Stop racist neo-Nazis at World Cup says Asamoah (May 27, 2006)
German international Gerald Asamoah, the first black player to represent the country, has said it is vital that the host nation do not allow racist neo-Nazis to spoil the World Cup, which begins in two week's time. . . . more . . .
Ukraine players unfit for finals says coach Blokhin (May 27, 2006)
Ukrainian national coach Oleg Blokhin told the press that only 16 players in his 23-man squad were in top form and ready to play at the forthcoming World Cup. . . . more . . .
Ivory Coast's Kalou in Chelsea talks (May 27, 2006)
Ivory Coast's Feyenoord striker Salomon Kalou, who failed in his Dutch naturalisation bid which would have put him in Holland's World Cup squad, is in talks with Premiership champions Chelsea. . . . more . . .
Czech stars to donate World Cup cash to young talent (May 27, 2006)
Czech footballers and the national football association have reportedly agreed to channel some of their World Cup earnings into a fund to develop young football talent in the country. . . . more . . .
Magnificent seven as Germany warm up for finals in style (May 27, 2006)
World Cup hosts Germany boosted morale a fortnight before the finals with a 7-0 friendly drubbing of minnows Luxembourg. . . . more . . .
Van Nistelrooy, van Persie shine as Netherlands down Lions (May 27, 2006)
Ruud van Nistelrooy marked his 50th international appearance with the winning goal as the Netherlands downed Cameroon 1-0 in a friendly. . . . more . . .
World Cup boost for Poborsky (May 27, 2006)
Czech international Karel Poborsky received a pre-World Cup boost after seeing his unfashionable Ceske Budejovice club promoted to the top-flight. . . . more . . .
Del Piero likely to start for Italy: Lippi (May 27, 2006)
Juventus star Alessandro Del Piero appears to have won his battle with fit-again Francesco Totti for the playmaking duties in Italy's World Cup campaign. . . . more . . .
Fabregas tipped for golden World Cup with Spain (May 27, 2006)
If there's one player the fans of Spain and England will be keeping an eye on at this summer's World Cup, it has got to be Arsenal's talented midfielder Francesc Fabregas. . . . more . . .
Pakistan's 'Pele' hopes football World Cup brings family joy (May 27, 2006)
For Abdul Ghafoor, once known as the "Black Pele of Pakistan," life revolves around football and he has found a renewed vigour ahead of the World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
US blanks Venezuela 2-0 in World Cup warm-up (May 27, 2006)
Clint Dempsey and Brian Ching scored and the United States snapped a three-game winless skid by defeating Venezuela 2-0 in a warm-up friendly for next month's World Cup. . . . more . . .
Jancker a hit in Shanghai on debut (May 26, 2006)
Former German international striker Carsten Jancker proved a hit in his first match with Shanghai Shenhua despite failing to find the net in a 3-0 win over Liaoning, state press said. . . . more . . .
UEFA fine Schalke for unruly fans (May 26, 2006)
European football's governing body UEFA have hit German club Schalke 04 with a 12,600 euro fine as punishment for the conduct of their away fans in a UEFA Cup match, the club said. . . . more . . .
Lennon hopes to be Sven's super sub (May 26, 2006)
Tottenham's Aaron Lennon is hoping to complete his meteoric rise from nowhere by playing a major role at the World Cup. . . . more . . .
Rooney ruled out of early stages of World Cup (May 26, 2006)
Wayne Rooney will travel with England to the World Cup despite being told that he will be unable to resume full training before June 14 at the earliest, four days after his country's opening match. . . . more . . .
Rooney set to miss early stages of World Cup (May 26, 2006)
England striker Wayne Rooney is set to miss the opening stages of the World Cup after being told he will not be able to resume full training until June 14 at the earliest. . . . more . . .
Houghton set to become India's football coach (May 26, 2006)
Indian football officials were shortly expected to appoint Englishman Bob Houghton as their new national coach, officials said. . . . more . . .
Japan coach Zico promises to go for World Cup title (May 26, 2006)
Japan coach Zico renewed his ambitious goal to go for a World Cup title as the Asian champions left for Germany, despite uplifting international wins by their rivals this week. . . . more . . .
South Korea record morale-boosting win (May 26, 2006)
South Korea beat Bosnia-Herzegovina 2-0 in a farewell friendly in front of 65,000 home fans on the eve of their departure for Europe to prepare for next month's World Cup finals in Germany. . . . more . . .
Shevchenko set for Chelsea move after AC Milan exit (May 26, 2006)
AC Milan's Ukrainian striker Andrei Shevchenko will leave AC Milan this summer, opening the way up for a transfer to English champions Chelsea. . . . more . . .
Bayern want Podolski decision before World Cup (May 26, 2006)
German champions Bayern Munich issued an ultimatum to relegated FC Cologne saying they want a decision on German international Lukas Podolski's future before the World Cup begins on June 9. . . . more . . .
Rooney on plane to Germany but out of group stages (May 26, 2006)
Wayne Rooney will travel with England to the World Cup despite being told that he will be unable to resume full training before June 14 at the earliest, four days after his country's opening match. . . . more . . .
Italy coach's son Davide Lippi under investigation (May 26, 2006)
Davide Lippi, son of Italy coach Marcello Lippi, was placed under judicial investigation in a new twist to the country's football scandal on Friday though the head of the Italian delegation said this would not affect World Cup morale. . . . more . . .
Pires winging his way to Villarreal (May 26, 2006)
French winger Robert Pires has confirmed he is leaving Champions League finalists Arsenal for a two-year deal with Spanish side Villarreal. . . . more . . .
It's a Dunne deal (May 26, 2006)
Richard Dunne has signed a new three-year contract with Manchester City that will keep him at the Premiership club until 2009. . . . more . . .
Sven calls up United keeper Foster (May 26, 2006)
Manchester United keeper Ben Foster, on loan to Watford last season, has been called up to the England World Cup squad to replace injured Robert Green. . . . more . . .
Take care of yourself Ferguson tells Rooney (May 26, 2006)
Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has warned Wayne Rooney not to jeopardise his World Cup dream by pushing himself too hard and not taking care of himself. . . . more . . .
Socceroos pound it out as Hiddink works for the finished article (May 26, 2006)
Guus Hiddink will continue to pump the work into his Australian players in a week-long training camp as he builds on transforming the Socceroos into a competitive force at next month's World Cup in Germany. . . . more . . .
Switzerland's Vonlanthen in World Cup doubt (May 25, 2006)
Young Swiss striker Johan Vonlanthen looks almost certain to miss the World Cup finals in Germany after suffering a torn thigh muscle earlier this week. . . . more . . .
Croatian football fans hope to watch World Cup at work (May 25, 2006)
One out of every three Croatians is expecting to be allowed to watch World Cup matches at work. . . . more . . .
Dyer arrested over indecent assault claim: report (May 25, 2006)
Newcastle midfielder Kieron Dyer has been arrested after a woman complained that he had indecently exposed himself. . . . more . . .
Celtic foiled in Larsson return bid (May 25, 2006)
Celtic's hopes of enticing Champions League winning star Henrik Larsson back to Glasgow have been thwarted. . . . more . . .
Bolton agree 8.5-million-pounds for Johnson (May 25, 2006)
Bolton Wanderers have agreed to match Championship side Crystal Palace's asking price of 8.5 million pounds for striker Andrew Johnson. . . . more . . .
Give Germany's Klinsmann a break says Pele (May 25, 2006)
Brazilian legend Pele has told the critics to lay off Germany manager Jurgen Klinsmann, claiming he has done a fine job with the hosts ahead of next month's World Cup. . . . more . . .
Sionko starts Czech World Cup training (May 25, 2006)
Libor Sionko, who was drafted into the Czech Republic World Cup squad as cover for Vladimir Smicer, trained for the first time at the team's base at Seefeld, Austria. . . . more . . .
Ankle scare for Ballack ahead of World Cup (May 25, 2006)
German international captain Michael Ballack suffered an injury scare ahead of the World Cup after picking up an ankle knock in a warm-up match in Geneva. . . . more . . .
Woe betide workers who are World Cup shirkers: British bosses (May 25, 2006)
British bosses are planning to crack down hard on football-crazy employees who take a day off work during the World Cup. . . . more . . .
India seek foreign coach to boost football fortunes (May 25, 2006)
Indian football officials hoping to find a high-profile foreign coach to boost sagging standards in this cricket-crazy country have begun interviewing candidates. . . . more . . .
Car-jacking gang behind Vieira burglary (May 25, 2006)
A pan-European car-jacking gang is believed to be behind a weekend burglary at the Riviera home of Juventus midfielder Patrick Vieira, who was knocked out with gas during the raid. . . . more . . .
Fans pay tribute to Argentina World Cup squad (May 25, 2006)
Argentine football fans turned out in numbers at the Monumental Stadium to give a boisterous send-off to their World Cup squad. . . . more . . .
Ballack signs up as UN anti-AIDS campaigner (May 25, 2006)
German football star Michael Ballack has agreed to help raise the profile of the global fight against HIV/AIDS as special representative for the United Nations, UNAIDS revealed. . . . more . . .
Pauleta extends contract at PSG (May 25, 2006)
Paris Saint Germain striker Pauleta has extended his contract by one year, the French first division club has confirmed. . . . more . . .
Skoko's spectacular winner sends Aussies on their way (May 25, 2006)
Australia has given 95,000 home fans a rousing World Cup send-off with a 1-0 win over European champions Greece in a football friendly at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. . . . more . . .
England embarrassed by ten-man Belarus (May 25, 2006)
England's final countdown to the World Cup began uncertainly as a 'B' selection went down to a 2-1 defeat by ten-man Belarus in a match marred by a serious injury to back-up goalkeeper Robert Green. . . . more . . .
AC Milan official under the spotlight (May 25, 2006)
An AC Milan official has for the first time become directly involved in a match-fixing affair in a new twist to the Italian football scandal which has been raging the past few weeks. . . . more . . .
Pires winging his way to Villarreal (May 25, 2006)
French winger Robert Pires has confirmed he is leaving Champions League finalists Arsenal for a two-year deal with Spanish side Villarreal. . . . more . . .
No Belarus blushes for upbeat Eriksson (May 25, 2006)
An upbeat Sven-Goran Eriksson put a positive spin on an embarrassing start to England's World Cup countdown after an experimental 'B' side went down to a 2-1 defeat at the hands of ten-man Belarus. . . . more . . .
French squad rocked by bust-up (May 25, 2006)
France coach Raymond Domenech has admitted that he had had a bust-up with reserve goalkeeper Gregory Coupet but insisted that the matter had since been resolved. . . . more . . .
Rui Costa quits AC Milan to return to Benfica (May 25, 2006)
AC Milan's Portuguese midfielder Rui Costa has quit the Italian side to return to Benfica where he started his career. . . . more . . .
Bajevic in charge at Red Star (May 25, 2006)
Serbian champions Red Star Belgrade have named Dusan Bajevic as their new manager replacing Italian Walter Zenga. . . . more . . .
Greece coach Rehhagel unconcerned as pressure mounts (May 25, 2006)
Otto Rehhagel, hailed for Greece's astonishing triumph in Euro 2004, is under growing pressure after the European champions' lacklustre 1-0 loss to World Cup-bound Australia. . . . more . . .
Chile too hot for Irish (May 24, 2006)
Steve Staunton's second game in charge of the Republic of Ireland ended in a 1-0 defeat to a Chilean side that included an impressive first-half performance from Liverpool winger Mark Gonzalez. . . . more . . .
Spurs fail in 3.5-million bid for Davies (May 24, 2006)
Tottenham have failed in a bid to sign Curtis Davies after relegated West Brom rejected a 3.5-million-pound bid for the 21-year-old central defender. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo hoping to shut some mouths as goals record beckons (May 24, 2006)
After a season dogged by questions over his form and fitness, Ronaldo is planning once again to use football's greatest stage as his platform to provide the answers. . . . more . . .
Italy keeper Buffon quizzed in illegal betting probe (May 24, 2006)
Italy keeper Gianluigi Buffon was called away from preparing for the World Cup to be quizzed by prosecutors investigating alleged illegal betting. . . . more . . .
UEFA appeal toughens sectarian chanting sanction on Rangers (May 24, 2006)
UEFA's appeals body have formally warned Rangers about the behaviour of their fans and increased a fine slapped on the Scottish club for sectarian chanting. . . . more . . .
Greeks out for revenge against Aussies for missing World Cup: Hiddink (May 24, 2006)
European champions Greece will be looking for revenge for not making next month's World Cup finals when they take on Germany-bound Australia in a friendly international, Australia's coach Guus Hiddink warned. . . . more . . .
Coupet temporarily quits French training camp (May 24, 2006)
France coach Raymond Domenech's attempt to create a feeling of harmony in his World Cup squad appeared to falter when second keeper Gregory Coupet abruptly packed his bags and left the squad's hotel. . . . more . . .
Capello named as Juve general manager (May 24, 2006)
Italian giants Juventus, embroiled in ugly match-fixing allegations, have named coach Fabio Capello as their new general manager with responsibility for transfer policy. . . . more . . .
Blades cut a deal with Sommeil (May 24, 2006)
Newly-promoted English Premiership side Sheffield United bolstered their defence by signing experienced French defender David Sommeil. . . . more . . .
France take high road to World Cup glory (May 24, 2006)
France coach Raymond Domenech has cloistered his squad high up on the French Alps to get them mentally ready for the World Cup and avoid the fiaso that downed the team four years ago. . . . more . . .
Palace accept Johnson bid from Wigan (May 24, 2006)
Crystal Palace have accepted an 8.5-million-pound offer from Wigan for England striker Andrew Johnson. . . . more . . .
Barthez injury cuts short alpine climb (May 24, 2006)
France's World Cup and Euro winning 'keeper Fabien Barthez has been forced to cut short a mountain climb in the Alps with the rest of Raymond Domenech's World Cup squad complaining of a calf injury. . . . more . . .
Roberto Carlos to give Chelsea answer before World Cup (May 24, 2006)
Veteran Brazil defender Roberto Carlos revealed he had received an offer from Chelsea and would give them an answer before the World Cup finals starts on June 9. . . . more . . .
Owen to skipper England for World Cup warm-up (May 24, 2006)
Michael Owen will captain an England B side in a World Cup warm-up match against Belarus in Reading on Thursday. . . . more . . .
Beckham seeking World Cup cure for Madrid blues (May 24, 2006)
England captain David Beckham has revealed how three years with no trophies at Real Madrid have left him with a thirst for World Cup glory in Germany this summer. . . . more . . .
Portugal's Boa Morte, Gomes to miss Cape Verde friendly (May 24, 2006)
Portugal winger Luis Boa Morte and striker Nuno Gomes will both miss the squad's World Cup warm-up match on Saturday against Cape Verde as they continue to recover from slight injuries. . . . more . . .
Hiddink may use Kewell off the bench in World Cup opener (May 24, 2006)
Coach Guus Hiddink is tinkering with using injured star Harry Kewell off the substitutes' bench for Australia's crucial World Cup opener against Japan in Germany next month. . . . more . . .
Oxfam cries foul over sportswear sweatshops ahead of World Cup (May 24, 2006)
Sportswear manufacturers received a red card from international charity Oxfam for failing to stamp out sweatshops in Asia ahead of next month's football World Cup. . . . more . . .
Japan polishing up long-ball attacks for World Cup (May 24, 2006)
Japan coach Zico said the Asian champions were polishing up their long-ball attacks ahead of their World Cup battles against more physical first-round opponents. . . . more . . .
Ballack fined for dodging airport tax (May 24, 2006)
German football captain and new Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack has been fined 60,000 euros (77,000 dollars) for failing to declare a handbag he bought in Dubai at airport customs. . . . more . . .
Japan plotting downfall of Brazilian rivals (May 24, 2006)
Japan, led by Brazilian coach Zico, are plotting to bite the hands that have fed them at the World Cup by upstaging five-time world champions Brazil. . . . more . . .
Costly affair for football fans heading to Germany (May 24, 2006)
Fans heading to Germany for the World Cup can expect their living costs to rise up to 110 percent during the four-week extravaganza, according to a survey by human resources firm ECA International. . . . more . . .
Merkel says Germany will not tolerate World Cup violence (May 24, 2006)
German Chancellor Angela Merkel said the country would not tolerate racist violence during the World Cup, while prosecutors said they would be on duty full-time to deal with offenders. . . . more . . .
Italian prosecutors to examine 41 Juventus transfers (May 24, 2006)
Public prosecutors in Turin have ordered the seizure of financial documents concerning the transfer of 41 players by Juventus in the latest development of the scandal embroiling Italy's top club. . . . more . . .
Cristiano Ronaldo out to make lasting impact at World Cup (May 24, 2006)
Manchester United's Portuguese winger Cristiano Ronaldo has said he aims to be one of the best players at the 32-nation World Cup football finals which kick off in Germany on June 9. . . . more . . .
US hit by disappointing 1-0 loss to Morocco in World Cup warm-up (May 24, 2006)
Reserve Mohamed Madihi scored on a counter-attack in the 90th minute to give Morocco a 1-0 victory over a World Cup-bound US squad here in a disappointing warm-up for the Americans. . . . more . . .
Fenerbahce confirm Campbell, Crespo interest (May 24, 2006)
Turkish first division side Fenerbahce have confirmed they are in negotiations with two leading Premiership players - Sol Campbell of Arsenal and Chelsea's Argentine attacker Hernan Crespo. . . . more . . .
Atletico Madrid snap up Aguirre (May 24, 2006)
Mexican Javier 'Vasco' Aguirre was unveiled as the new coach of Spanish first division side Atletico Madrid. . . . more . . .
Brazil get down to the serious stuff (May 24, 2006)
The Brazil World Cup squad was put through its paces for the first time since arriving in its Swiss training base. . . . more . . .
Reyna gets good news on hamstring injury (May 24, 2006)
US captain Claudio Reyna was relieved to learn the tightness he felt in his hamstring in a World Cup warm-up against Morocco the previous night wasn't a sign of a serious injury. . . . more . . .
Deschamps tapped for Marseille hotseat (May 24, 2006)
France's World Cup and Euro winning captain Didier Deschamps could be in line for a return to management after he revealed he had met with Marseille bosses. . . . more . . .
Rooney's doctor leaves Man Utd (May 24, 2006)
English Premiership giants Manchester United have said that club doctor Mike Stone, who was treating injured striker Wayne Rooney, has left "because of a difference of opinion". . . . more . . .
Czech Rosicky joins Arsenal (May 23, 2006)
Czech Republic international Tomas Rosicky has joined Arsenal from Borussia Dortmund. . . . more . . .
South Korea held 1-1 by Senegal (May 23, 2006)
World Cup finalists South Korea were held to a 1-1 draw by Senegal, the gifted African side who failed to qualify for the finals starting next month in Germany. . . . more . . .
Beckham confident of England's chances minus Rooney (May 23, 2006)
David Beckham is confident that England have the players to win the World Cup in Germany, even if they are forced to do without the creative influence of Wayne Rooney. . . . more . . .
Pires becomes a submariner: report (May 23, 2006)
Champions League semi-finalists Villarreal signed former France international attacking midfielder Robert Pires on a two year contract from Champions League finalists Arsenal Spanish radio station Cadena Ser announced. . . . more . . .
Le Guen swoops for French youngsters (May 23, 2006)
New Rangers manager Paul Le Guen added two promising French youngsters to his squad signing William Stanger and Antoine Ponroy from one of his former clubs Rennes. . . . more . . .
Campbell to delay decision on future until after World Cup (May 23, 2006)
Sol Campbell will not be making any decisions about his Arsenal future until after the World Cup, the centreback said. . . . more . . .
Club legend Heynckes returns to manage Gladbach (May 23, 2006)
Veteran German coach Jupp Heynckes has been unveiled as the new manager of German first division side Borussia Monchengladbach. . . . more . . .
Smicer's World Cup in doubt after training injury (May 23, 2006)
Czech midfielder Vladimir Smicer's World Cup worries deepened when he was taken to an Austrian hospital after injuring his right leg during shooting practice. . . . more . . .
Messi making slow progress says Pekerman (May 23, 2006)
Outstanding Argentinian teenager Lionel Messi is making slow progress in returning to his best form as he recovers from a right thigh injury claimed national team boss Jose Pekerman. . . . more . . .
Toni not certain to stay at Fiorentina (May 23, 2006)
Italy's top scorer Luca Toni said he was not certain to stay at Fiorentina next season unless certain things were resolved at the club. . . . more . . .
Only World Cup will do says Klinsmann (May 23, 2006)
Germany coach Jurgen Klinsmann says anything less than winning next month's World Cup would be a failure in his eyes. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo gets vote of confidence from Parreira (May 23, 2006)
Brazil's under-fire forward Ronaldo received a vote of confidence from team coach Carlos Alberto Parreira. . . . more . . .
Spain not so mellow as Raul arrives in yellow (May 23, 2006)
Spanish striker Raul was torn off a strip by coach Luis Aragones when the country's World Cup squad gathered to begin preparations for next month's finals after arriving in a yellow surfer-style t-shirt, a colour his manager deems unlucky. . . . more . . .
Spackman appointed Millwall manager (May 23, 2006)
Former Chelsea midfielder Nigel Spackman has been appointed as the new manager of Millwall, who were relegated from the Championship in the season just ended. . . . more . . .
Iran police pledge people can party as World Cup fever mounts (May 23, 2006)
Iranian police are gearing up for what may be one of their biggest ever public security operations - a sudden eruption of street parties should Iran enjoy a successful World Cup campaign. . . . more . . .
Portuguese World Cup duo in hot water over counterfeit films (May 23, 2006)
Officials in Portugal are investigating Benfica duo Armando Petit and Nuno Gomes after they were seen in a television report taking what appeared to be counterfeit films to a World Cup training camp. . . . more . . .
Dortmund confirm Arsenal talks over Rosicky (May 23, 2006)
Borussia Dortmund have confirmed that English Premiership side Arsenal are holding talks over the transfer of their Czech international playmaker Tomas Rosicky. . . . more . . .
Ardiles named as new Beitar Jerusalem boss (May 23, 2006)
Former Argentina and Tottenham Hotspur star Osvaldo Ardiles is to become the new coach of Beitar Jerusalem, the Israeli club's Russian ownner revealed. . . . more . . .
Rui Costa closing in on to return to Benfica (May 23, 2006)
AC Milan's Portuguese midfielder Rui Costa, who has one year left with the Italian side, is set to return to Lisbon-based Benfica. . . . more . . .
Fernandez quits Marseille (May 23, 2006)
French football giants Marseille were left looking for a new coach when Jean Fernandez left his post for personal reasons. . . . more . . .
Boskamp looking for new Standards (May 23, 2006)
Former World Cup finalist Johan Boskamp is to coach Belgian First Division side Standard Liege. . . . more . . .
Dawson earns call-up to England World Cup squad (May 22, 2006)
Spurs' resurgence last season has seen Michael Dawson earn a call-up to England's World Cup squad as a standby. . . . more . . .
Adebayor joins up with coachless Sparrowhawks (May 22, 2006)
World Cup finals debutants Togo's star player Emmanuel Adebayor trained for the first time with his teammates after joining up after a few days rest. . . . more . . .
Rosicky skips training to seal deal with Arsenal (May 22, 2006)
Czech midfield star Tomas Rosicky missed World Cup training with the rest of the squad in Austria due to negotiations over a transfer to Champions League finalists, Arsenal. . . . more . . .
Berlusconi set to reclaim presidency of AC Milan (May 22, 2006)
Former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi is to regain the presidency of Italian giants AC Milan he announced. . . . more . . .
Fenerbahce target Campbell (May 22, 2006)
Turkish first division side Fenerbahce are targetting Arsenal defender Sol Campbell. . . . more . . .
Brazil set out on quest for sixth World Cup (May 22, 2006)
Brazil were accorded a low key send off here as they left for Europe on a quest to claim a sixth World Cup. . . . more . . .
Rooney World Cup hopes on the rise (May 22, 2006)
Wayne Rooney's hopes of being fit in time to play in the World Cup finals have been raised after the England team doctor claimed the forward was making a "perfect recovery" from a broken metatarsal bone in his right foot. . . . more . . .
Beckham: I'm happy to remain in Spain (May 22, 2006)
England captain David Beckham wants to stay in Spain even after retiring from football, the Real Madrid midfielder has said in an interview. . . . more . . .
Moggi points finger at Berlusconi and Galliani (May 22, 2006)
Under-fire former Juventus general manager Luciano Moggi, the man at the centre of the Italian match-fixing scandal, has blamed all his problems on a meeting with former Italian president Silvio Berlusconi. . . . more . . .
"On fire" Owen lifts Eriksson as Rooney recovery gathers pace (May 22, 2006)
Sven-Goran Eriksson gave England's flagging World Cup morale a boost with an upbeat report on the prospect of Wayne Rooney lining up alongside an "on fire" Michael Owen in Germany. . . . more . . .
Documentary on French soccer star Zidane screens at Cannes (May 22, 2006)
As World Cup fever mounts around the world, Cannes critics got to see French player Zinedine Zidane as he's never been seen before: in a 'documentary' portrait of the Real Madrid star which trained 17 cameras on him during a match. . . . more . . .
Sparrowhawks set for four warm-up matches (May 22, 2006)
World Cup finals debutants Togo are to play four warm-up matches ahead of football's showpiece event which gets underway in Germany on June 9 their federation announced. . . . more . . .
Neville on standby after Reo Coker drops out (May 22, 2006)
Veteran fullback Phil Neville was called up to replace West Ham captain Nigel Reo-Coker for England's World Cup stand-by list. . . . more . . .
Hornets deliver fatal sting to Leeds dream (May 22, 2006)
Goals by Jay DeMerit, James Chambers and a penalty by Darius Henderson sent Watford into the Premiership for only the second time in 18 years at the expense of Leeds United. . . . more . . .
Lehmann says Germany must forget World Cup pressure (May 22, 2006)
German international goalkeeper Jens Lehmann has urged his team-mates to try and enjoy next month's World Cup finals and forget the pressure the hosts are under to win the competition. . . . more . . .
UEFA to contact Italian football commissar over scandal (May 22, 2006)
European football's governing body UEFA want to meet with Guido Rossi the newly-installed emergency administrator of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) their director-general said. . . . more . . .
Diarra snubs Man United for Real: report (May 22, 2006)
Lyon's Mali international Mahamadou Diarra has "angered" Manchester United bosses by claiming he favours a move to Real Madrid. . . . more . . .
Lippi cleared to continue Italian job (May 22, 2006)
Marcello Lippi's job as Italy manager is safe despite his links with the man at the centre of the Serie A match-fixing scandal, Italian football's emergency administrator Guido Rossi has announced. . . . more . . .
Japan striker Yanagisawa fit for World Cup after foot injury (May 22, 2006)
Former Sampdoria and Messina striker Atsushi Yanagisawa, back in action after breaking his foot two months ago, said Monday he was all fit for Japan's World Cup battle in Germany. . . . more . . .
Dawson earns call-up to England World Cup squad (May 21, 2006)
Spurs' resurgence last season has seen Michael Dawson earn a call-up to England's World Cup squad as a standby. . . . more . . .
Lippi's job at risk, say Italian press (May 21, 2006)
Marcello Lippi's job as Italy coach could be at risk due to his relationship with Luciano Moggi and GEA, the firm of football agents run by Moggi's son. . . . more . . .
Poborsky prepares for World Cup campaign at last (May 21, 2006)
The Czech Republic's most capped player with 112 appearances, Karel Poborsky, will step up from second division Czech football to play in soccer's most prestigious tournament, the World Cup. . . . more . . .
Hornets deliver fatal sting to Leeds dream (May 21, 2006)
Goals by Jay DeMerit, James Chambers and a penalty by Darius Henderson sent Watford into the Premiership for only the second time in 18 years at the expense of Leeds United. . . . more . . .
I want to end my career at Chelsea: Ballack (May 21, 2006)
Chelsea's new addition Michael Ballack says he wants to end his career at the Stamford Bridge club. . . . more . . .
US World Cup team completes training camp as key friendlies loom (May 21, 2006)
The United States World Cup football squad concluded a 12-day training camp and prepared for three friendlies in the next week to serve as a tuneup for matches in Germany. . . . more . . .
Ferdinand seeks to banish bitter memories (May 21, 2006)
Rio Ferdinand believes he can put two of the most traumatic experiences of his career behind him by performing well in the World Cup in Germany. . . . more . . .
Donovan returns to Germany with something to prove (May 21, 2006)
US playmaker Landon Donovan, a disappointing Bundesliga flop last year in a three-month stint at Bayer Leverkusen, has something to prove when he returns to Germany next month for the World Cup. . . . more . . .
US unmatched by World Cup rivals in managerial Arena (May 21, 2006)
Bruce Arena, the longest-serving manager on any team at the World Cup, has guided the United States from a humiliating last in 1998 to a 2002 quarter-final run and a best-ever fourth in FIFA's rankings. . . . more . . .
Old man Nowotny the key to German youngbloods (May 20, 2006)
Veteran German defender Jens Nowotny will be key to how the younger German players perform at the World Cup finals claimed national coach Jurgen Klinsmann. . . . more . . .
Hamann retires from international football (May 20, 2006)
Liverpool midfielder Dietmar Hamann has retired from international football after being overlooked for Germany's World Cup squad. . . . more . . .
Maniche leaves Chelsea (May 20, 2006)
Portuguese international midfielder Maniche has ended his loan spell at Premiership champions Chelsea with the club not wishing to pay 5million pounds to make him a permanent signing. . . . more . . .
Man United owner Glazer suffers second stroke (May 20, 2006)
American business tycoon Malcolm Glazer, owner of English Premiership giants Manchester United, is back in hospital after suffering a second stroke. . . . more . . .
Shevchenko to decide on future next week (May 20, 2006)
Former European Footballer of the Year Andriy Shevchenko will decide next week whether he will stay at AC Milan or move to English champions Chelsea. . . . more . . .
Iran counting on Bundesliga stars for World Cup advance: captain (May 20, 2006)
Iran skipper Ali Daei believes the Asian powerhouses' contingent of German-based stars can lead his team into an unprecedented second round World Cup spot. . . . more . . .
Davies in line for Charlton post (May 20, 2006)
Preston manager Billy Davies could step in to the vacant Charlton manager's job after the virtual elimination of two of the front runners. . . . more . . .
Drogba and Gallas going nowhere says Mourinho (May 20, 2006)
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has insisted that want-away duo Didier Drogba and William Gallas will not be allowed to quit the English Premiership champions until their contracts are up. . . . more . . .
Bilbao win but Eto'o claims Pichichi (May 20, 2006)
A virtually second-string Barcelona ended their stunning double-winning season in inglorious fashion with a limp 3-1 defeat at mid-table Atletico Bilbao. . . . more . . .
FIFA president appalled by Italian match-fixing scandal (May 20, 2006)
FIFA president Sepp Blatter has expressed his dismay about the state of Italian football as the Serie A match-fixing scandal rumbles on. . . . more . . .
Give Gerrard attacking freedom says Pearce (May 20, 2006)
Liverpool midfielder Steven Gerrard would be playing further forward in England's attack at the World Cup finals this summer, if former England captain Stuart Pearce had his way. . . . more . . .
Man United owner Glazer hospitalized again after stroke (May 20, 2006)
Malcolm Glazer, the US tycoon who owns English Premiership giants Manchester United, has impaired speech and mobility following a second stroke, his family confirmed. . . . more . . .
Inter Milan dragged into Italian football scandal (May 20, 2006)
Inter Milan were dragged into the Italian football scandal after an intercepted telephone conversation involving the club's president were published in Italian newspapers. . . . more . . .
Rooney could play in England opener (May 20, 2006)
Injured striker Wayne Rooney could be fit in time for England's World Cup opener against Paraguay, according to a reports. . . . more . . .
Rovers' Dickov set for City return (May 20, 2006)
Veteran striker Paul Dickov could be on his way back to former club Manchester City after he rejected the offer of a new contract by Blackburn Rovers. . . . more . . .
Young out of England squad (May 20, 2006)
Charlton defender Luke Young has pulled out of England's standby World Cup squad with an ankle injury. . . . more . . .
News less Al-Lahming for Germany (May 20, 2006)
World Cup hosts Germany received encouraging news about key defender Philipp Lahm who has resumed light training after an operation on his left elbow. . . . more . . .
Lyon sign Toulalan but release Nilmar (May 19, 2006)
Five-times French champions Lyon have snapped up Nantes midfielder Jeremy Toulalan for seven million euros (8.9 million dollars). . . . more . . .
Henry staying more important than winning Champions League: Wenger (May 19, 2006)
Arsene Wenger has hailed Thierry Henry's decision to stay at Arsenal as more significant for the club's future than winning the Champions League. . . . more . . .
Bruce staying with Birmingham (May 19, 2006)
Steve Bruce is to stay with Birmingham City, the club's chairman David Gold announced in a bid to help the Midlands side bounce straight back to the Premiership after this season's relegation. . . . more . . .
Italy coach Lippi quizzed over relationship with Moggi (May 19, 2006)
Italy coach Marcello Lippi was questioned by magistrates for three and a half hours about his relationship with former Juventus general director and suspected match-fixer Luciano Moggi. . . . more . . .
Pressure all on Brazil, says Aussie World Cup hero Aloisi (May 19, 2006)
Five-times World Cup champions Brazil have all the pressure on them ahead of their World Cup finals' match with Australia in Germany next month, according to qualification hero John Aloisi. . . . more . . .
Regimental Perrin set for Sochaux hotseat (May 19, 2006)
French First Division outfit Sochaux are to appoint experienced coach Alain Perrin as their manager. . . . more . . .
Henry signs new contract (May 19, 2006)
French international striker Thierry Henry has signed a new contract with Arsenal. . . . more . . .
Germany organise open door training session (May 19, 2006)
Germany are inviting fans to watch one of their World Cup warm up sessions, the German football federation announced. . . . more . . .
Gunners delight as Henry decides to stay with "the club I love" (May 19, 2006)
Thierry Henry has signed a new four-year contract with Arsenal after revealing that he could not bear to quit "the club I love" in favour of a new challenge with Barcelona. . . . more . . .
Ajax swoop for Barcelona assistant Cate (May 19, 2006)
Barcelona coach Frank Rijkaard's assistant Henk ten Cate is to become the new manager of Ajax. . . . more . . .
Lippi questioned over relationship with Moggi (May 19, 2006)
Italy coach Marcello Lippi was questioned by magistrates for three-and-a-half hours as part of their investigation into the dealings of football agents GEA. . . . more . . .
Henry a Gunner for rest of his career (May 19, 2006)
Thierry Henry believes he could finish his career at Arsenal after signing a new four-year contract with the club which will run until three months short of his 33rd birthday. . . . more . . .
Cahill on the mend in World Cup countdown (May 19, 2006)
Injured Everton midfielder Tim Cahill says he is well on the way to recovery from a knee ligament injury in the countdown to Australia's World Cup opener with Japan in Kaiserslautern on June 12. . . . more . . .
England can beat it says disenchanted Drogba (May 19, 2006)
Ivory Coasts' talismanic striker Didier Drogba says he was fed up with Premiership football and was ready to ditch it for football on the mainland European continent. . . . more . . .
Crisis-stricken Juve name new managing director (May 19, 2006)
Juventus, whose entire board quit last week over match-fixing allegations, haved named Carlo Sant'Albano as their acting managing director. . . . more . . .
Gunners handed huge boost as Henry says: I stay (May 19, 2006)
Arsenal fans were handed the perfect antidote to their lingering Champions League hangovers when inspirational captain Thierry Henry confirmed that he would be staying in north London. . . . more . . .
Prodi says soccer scandal metaphor for Italy's 'ethical crises' (May 19, 2006)
Italy's new Prime Minister Romano Prodi has said that Italy's soccer scandal was a metaphor for the many "ethical crises" facing the country. . . . more . . .
St Etienne replace Baup with Hasek (May 19, 2006)
French first division outfit St Etienne have signed Czech coach Ivan Hasek to replace the departed Toulouse-bound Elie Baup, the club announced. . . . more . . .
Socceroo Thompson to return to A-League (May 19, 2006)
Australian striker Archie Thompson says he will be returning from Dutch club PSV Eindhoven to play with his hometown A-League club Melbourne Victory next season. . . . more . . .
Cisse ready to quit Liverpool for Marseille (May 19, 2006)
France international striker Djibril Cisse is ready to join French giants Marseille from FA Cup winners Liverpool should they launch a new bid. . . . more . . .
Three clubs targeted in Dutch match-fixing probe (May 19, 2006)
Three first division clubs are at the centre of an investigation into alleged match-fixing in Dutch football. . . . more . . .
Italy coach Lippi questioned over Moggi phone taps (May 19, 2006)
Italy coach Marcello Lippi was questioned by magistrates here Friday as part of their investigation into the dealings of football agents GEA. . . . more . . .
Charlton in talks with Preston boss as new manager (May 19, 2006)
Charlton have been granted permission to talk to Preston manager Billy Davies with a view to the Scot taking over as boss of the Premiership club. . . . more . . .
Bidder bags tickets to Beckham's World Cup bash (May 19, 2006)
A big-spending bidder became the envy of a nation's football fans after picking up a pair of tickets to England captain David Beckham's World Cup party in an online charity auction. . . . more . . .
Thierry to stay at Arsenal: The Sun (May 19, 2006)
Thierry Henry has decided to stay at Arsenal and is expected to sign a new four-year contract with the north London football club, Britain's Sun newspaper said. . . . more . . .
Financial police search Juventus offices (May 18, 2006)
Italy's financial police searched the offices of scandal-hit Serie A club Juventus. . . . more . . .
Troussier wants chance to lead China into football's world top 20 (May 18, 2006)
France's globe-trotting soccer coach Philippe Troussier said he would like to make China one of the world's top 20 teams, if he is selected to coach the nation's Olympic side. . . . more . . .
Police search offices of scandal-hit Juventus (May 18, 2006)
Italy's financial police searched the offices of scandal-hit Serie A club Juventus in the latest development in the fight against corruption in Italian football. . . . more . . .
Giant striker Jancker signs for Shanghai Shenhua (May 18, 2006)
Former German international striker Carsten Jancker has signed a one-year deal with Chinese team Shanghai Shenhua, his team Kaiserslautern announced. . . . more . . .
Figo heads into World Cup drained after first season at Inter Milan (May 18, 2006)
Veteran Portuguese midfielder Luis Figo says he is heading into the World Cup drained after a demanding season at Inter Milan but he believes he will fully recover before the tournament gets under way in Germany on June 9. . . . more . . .
Germany 'scores own goal' with World Cup race attack warning (May 18, 2006)
German politicians and football authorities reacted with anger to a warning from a former government spokesman that World Cup visitors from abroad risked race attacks in eastern Germany. . . . more . . .
Goma going from Fulham (May 18, 2006)
Alain Goma was among several players released by English Premiership side Fulham. . . . more . . .
Lehmann cast as villain of Champions League final (May 18, 2006)
Jens Lehmann was firmly cast as the villain by newspapers after his early sending off in the Champions League final cost his club Arsenal dear, his 10 team-mates going down 2-1 to Barcelona. . . . more . . .
Lahm confident for World Cup after elbow operation (May 18, 2006)
Germany left-back Philipp Lahm said he was confident of making an impact in the World Cup that starts next month. . . . more . . .
Super-sub Larsson helps Barca triumph (May 18, 2006)
Super-sub Henrik Larsson brought the curtain down on his Barcelona career by helping to create the goals that saw the Spanish champions crowned kings of Europe for the second time. . . . more . . .
Financial police search offices of scandal-hit Juventus (May 18, 2006)
Italy's financial police searched the offices of scandal-hit Serie A club Juventus. . . . more . . .
Nuremberg snap up veteran Galasek (May 18, 2006)
Veteran Czech international midfielder Tomas Galasek has signed a two-year contract with German first division team Nuremberg, the club announced. . . . more . . .
Primus extends Pompey deal (May 18, 2006)
Portsmouth defender Linvoy Primus signed a new two-year contract with the English Premiership that is set to keep the 32-year-old centre-half at Fratton Park until 2008. . . . more . . .
Henry drops Arsenal hint after Barca blow (May 18, 2006)
Arsenal captain Thierry Henry has given the club's dejected fans a glimmer of hope following their side's Champions League final defeat by suggesting he may yet still be with the north London club next season. . . . more . . .
Champions League ref admits: I should have played advantage (May 18, 2006)
The Norwegian referee in charge of Wednesday's Champions League final in Paris has admitted he was wrong to send Arsenal keeper Jens Lehmann off in the first half. . . . more . . .
Taylor turns down Charlton (May 18, 2006)
Peter Taylor withdrew from the list of contenders in the race to become the manager of Charlton Athletic. . . . more . . .
I should have played advantage, admits Champions League ref (May 18, 2006)
The Norwegian referee in charge of the the Champions League final between Barcelona and Arsenal admitted he was wrong not to have played advantage in a key incident early in the game. . . . more . . .
Pele says England can cope with Rooney loss (May 18, 2006)
Pele believes England can reach the final of this year's World Cup even if striker Wayne Rooney fails to recover from injury. . . . more . . .
Bolton forge China link (May 18, 2006)
Bolton have linked up with leading Chinese club Wuhan. . . . more . . .
Eriksson shrugs off Benfica speculation (May 18, 2006)
Sven-Goran Eriksson has insisted speculation about a return to Benfica will not affect his ambition to help England win the World Cup. . . . more . . .
Shattered Henry to decide Arsenal future before World Cup (May 18, 2006)
Arsenal captain Thierry Henry has promised to settle the guessing game surrounding his future after a heartbreaking Champions League defeat by the club who may be paying his wages next season. . . . more . . .
Prosecutors plan fight to clean up Italian football (May 17, 2006)
Prosecutors from Rome and Turin met their counterparts in Naples to agree on a way forward in their fight against corruption in Italian football. . . . more . . .
Polish president vows 'fight without mercy' against hooligans (May 17, 2006)
Polish President Lech Kaczynski has vowed to launch a "fight without mercy" against football thugs, amid fears that Polish hooligans will wreak havoc during the approaching World Cup in Germany. . . . more . . .
Captaining country at World Cup is highlight of my career: Yorke (May 17, 2006)
Dwight Yorke has insisted that captaining Trinidad and Tobago at the World Cup will eclipse anything else he has achieved in his career. . . . more . . .
Benfica has chosen new coach: president (May 17, 2006)
Benfica president Luis Filipe Vieira has said the Lisbon-based club has reached a decision as to who will be its new coach but is not yet ready to announce the name to the public. . . . more . . .
Owen declares himself fit for World Cup (May 17, 2006)
Michael Owen has declared himself fit to play in the World Cup after scoring twice in a practice match at England's pre-tournament training camp in Portugal. . . . more . . .
Scene set for Champions League final classic (May 17, 2006)
Paris was awash with English and Spanish football fans all heading up to the Stade de France for the most eagerly-anticipated Champions League final in years. . . . more . . .
Spurs sign Bulgarian striker Berbatov (May 17, 2006)
Tottenham Hotspur have signed Bayer Leverkusen's Bulgarian striker Dimitar Berbatov for a fee of 10.9million pounds (16million euros). . . . more . . .
Germany fears terrorist risk to 21 World Cup matches (May 17, 2006)
German security authorities believe 21 World Cup matches are at high risk of terrorist attack. . . . more . . .
Cameroon defender Wome joins Werder (May 17, 2006)
Cameroon international Pierre Wome has joined Werder Bremen from Serie A side Inter Milan on a free transfer. . . . more . . .
World Cup visitors warned of racist threat in eastern Germany (May 17, 2006)
Foreign visitors to the World Cup were warned to avoid some areas around Berlin because of the risk of racist attack. . . . more . . .
Lahm out for two weeks after elbow operation (May 17, 2006)
Germany left-back Philipp Lahm will be out for two weeks after undergoing an operation on an elbow injury, the German football federation announced. . . . more . . .
Favalli joins AC Milan (May 17, 2006)
Former Italy international Giuseppe Favalli has joined AC Milan on a free transfer from their city rivals Inter Milan. . . . more . . .
Chelsea want Portugal's Hilario as third keeper: report (May 17, 2006)
Chelsea's Portuguese coach Jose Mourinho is close to signing Henrique "Hilario" Sampaio of Portuguese side Nacional as the London club's third keeper. . . . more . . .
Rooney World Cup fitness tied to scan: Eriksson (May 17, 2006)
Wayne Rooney's World Cup future looks set to be decided by a scan on his broken foot on May 25. . . . more . . .
Japan's little known striker Maki to wear stealth boots (May 17, 2006)
Little known Japanese forward Seiichiro Maki, a surprise choice in Zico's World Cup squad, is plotting to become more invisible with "stealth" feet -- in a pair of all-green boots. . . . more . . .
Polish president to attend World Cup match against Germany (May 17, 2006)
Polish President Lech Kaczynski has accepted an invitation from his German counterpart to attend Poland's World Cup opening-round match against Germany. . . . more . . .
Chelsea want Portugal's Hilario as third keeper (May 17, 2006)
Chelsea's Portuguese coach Jose Mourinho wants to sign Henrique "Hilario" Sampaio of Portuguese side Nacional as the London club's third keeper. . . . more . . .
Wenger sees Gunners destiny as world awaits a classic (May 17, 2006)
Arsene Wenger believes fate is propelling Arsenal towards victory over Barcelona in the most eagerly anticipated Champions League final in years. . . . more . . .
Barca late show floors heroic Gunners (May 17, 2006)
Late goals by Samuel Eto'o and substitute Juliano Belletti allowed Barcelona to finally overcome ten-man Arsenal 2-1 in a Champions League final of extraordinary drama at the Stade de France. . . . more . . .
Pires will sign next week: Villarreal chief (May 17, 2006)
Arsenal's Robert Pires, replaced after just 20 minutes in the Champions League final, is poised to join Villarreal next season, the Spanish side's president claimed. . . . more . . .
Venables lined up for Boro job (May 17, 2006)
Premiership side Middlesbrough are about to name former England boss Terry Venables as their new manager. . . . more . . .
We need Rooney fit for next season, warns Ferguson (May 16, 2006)
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has voiced fears over Wayne Rooney being fit for next season if he plays in the World Cup without being fully fit. . . . more . . .
Wenger staying at Arsenal (May 16, 2006)
Arsene Wenger, who will coach in his first Champions League final in Paris on Wednesday, has said he would prefer to stay with Arsenal until the end of his managerial career. . . . more . . .
Beckham brace can't stop Sevilla but Real stay second (May 16, 2006)
Two goals from England captain David Beckham, and another from Zinedine Zidane in his last official club match couldn't stop Real Madrid from going down 4-3 at UEFA Cup winners Sevilla. . . . more . . .
Rangers snap up Czech Sionko (May 16, 2006)
Rangers have signed Czech attacking midfielder Libor Sionko from Austria Vienna, the player's agent Pavel Zika told the Czech press. . . . more . . .
Here's how Beckham bends it (May 16, 2006)
Physicists are not known for donning replica shirts and face paint, yet they are among the millions who marvel at David Beckham, Roberto Carlos and other masters of the banana kick. . . . more . . .
Italy under pressure to show red card to match-fixers (May 16, 2006)
With the world watching closely, Italian football is under intense pressure to put its house in order after the latest scandal to bring shame on the country's favourite sport. . . . more . . .
Roeder takes over as Newcastle boss (May 16, 2006)
Newcastle United confirmed Glenn Roeder as their full-time manager after impressing club officials during a short spell as caretaker coach. . . . more . . .
Former stock market man charged with cleaning up Italian football (May 16, 2006)
Former stock market regulator Guido Rossi has been named as the emergency administrator of the crisis-ridden Italian football federation (FIGC). . . . more . . .
Barcelona and Arsenal poised for Champions League classic (May 16, 2006)
Fifty years after the famous Real Madrid side of Alfredo di Stefano lifted the first European Cup, Barcelona and Arsenal are promising to produce a spectacle in line with the tournament's best traditions when they clash in the final of the Champions League here Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Emergency administrator brought in to clean up Italian football (May 16, 2006)
Guido Rossi has been given the mammoth task of cleaning up Italian football. . . . more . . .
Shevchenko move to Chelsea difficult: Mourinho (May 16, 2006)
Chelsea are interested in signing AC Milan's Ukraine international Andriy Shevchenko but it will be very difficult to reach a deal, the London team's Portuguese manager Jose Mourinho has said. . . . more . . .
Human barriers to block pitch invaders, and streakers (May 16, 2006)
World Cup organisers have revealed a plan to use so-called 'human barriers' to prevent pitch invasions at next month's finals. . . . more . . .
Linesman apologises for 'stupid' Barca shirt blunder (May 16, 2006)
A linesman due to officiate at Wednesday's Champions League final has apologised after being photographed posing in a Barcelona shirt just days before their showdown with Arsenal. . . . more . . .
Wenger: Fired-up Henry eyeing a 'special achievement' (May 16, 2006)
A super-confident Arsene Wenger believes Thierry Henry can lead Arsenal to a historic first ever European Champions League crown with victory over Barcelona. . . . more . . .
Lahm picks up elbow injury in friendly (May 16, 2006)
Germany left-back Philipp Lahm picked up an elbow injury in a friendly ahead of the World Cup. . . . more . . .
Arsenal's Fabregas gets a price put on his head (May 16, 2006)
The agent of Arsenal's dynamic young Spanish midfielder Cesc Fabregas named a price if Spanish giants Real Madrid wanted to sign him. . . . more . . .
Nihat signs five year deal with Villarreal (May 16, 2006)
Villarreal have agreed a five year deal with the Turkish international midfielder Kahveci Nihat, the Spanish first division club announced. . . . more . . .
Linesman for Champions League sacked for 'stupid' Barca shirt blunder (May 16, 2006)
A linesman due to officiate at Wednesday's Champions League final has been replaced after admitting 'stupidly' being photographed posing in a Barcelona shirt ahead of their showdown with Arsenal. . . . more . . .
Klinsmann springs World Cup surprise with uncapped Odonkor (May 15, 2006)
Germany manager Jurgen Klinsmann has sprung two major surprises in his 23-man World Cup squad with uncapped midfielder David Odonkor and veteran defender Jens Nowotny included for next month's finals. . . . more . . .
Zico to gamble on surprise forward line-up in World Cup (May 15, 2006)
Japan coach Zico has announced a World Cup squad studded with six Europe-based stars, opting to gamble on up-and-coming forward Seiichiro Maki to boost their crucial lack of firepower upfront. . . . more . . .
Pekerman sticks to form book for Argentina World Cup squad (May 15, 2006)
Argentina coach Jose Pekerman sprang no major surprises in his 23-man squad for the June 9-July 9 World Cup finals in Germany. . . . more . . .
71 Polish hooligans charged after street fights in Warsaw (May 15, 2006)
Scores of Polish football fans have been charged with unlawful conduct after fighting running battles with police in the capital at the weekend. . . . more . . .
Morientes out as Spain's Aragones backs his system (May 15, 2006)
Spain coach Luis Aragones named his 23-man squad for the World Cup and said that he had picked his players for the way that they fitted into his system. . . . more . . .
Petkovic sticks with tried and tested Serbia-Montenegro squad (May 15, 2006)
Serbia-Montenegro coach Ilija Petkovic has unveiled a 23-man squad with only one uncapped player for the June 9-July 9 World Cup finals in Germany. . . . more . . .
Czech manager names full strength squad for World Cup (May 15, 2006)
Czech Republic manager Karel Bruckner has announced his World Cup squad, giving a vote of confidence to a group of veterans who have been struggling with injuries and form. . . . more . . .
Ballack signs three-year deal with Chelsea (May 15, 2006)
Germany captain Michael Ballack has signed a three-year deal to play for English champions Chelsea. . . . more . . .
Scores of Polish hooligans charged after street fights in Warsaw (May 15, 2006)
Seventy-one Polish football fans have been charged with assaulting police officers after fighting running battles with law enforcement teams in Warsaw at the weekend. . . . more . . .
German, Polish hooligans pose World Cup threat: German minister (May 15, 2006)
German and Polish hooligans will present the biggest risk of violence at the World Cup finals in Germany, Interior Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble said in a newspaper interview. . . . more . . .
Switzerland favour youth for World Cup (May 15, 2006)
Switzerland's coach Jakob Kuhn has largely favoured youth for the World Cup finals, leaving out midfield playmaker Hakan Yakin in his final 23 for Germany. . . . more . . .
Setback for FIFA as Charleroi case sent to Europe's highest court (May 15, 2006)
FIFA's stance on compensation for players injured on international duty suffered a setback when a court here referred a case between Belgian club Charleroi and world football's governing body to Europe's highest court. . . . more . . .
Moggi quizzed over suspected match-fixing (May 15, 2006)
Luciano Moggi, the man at the centre of a huge investigation into match fixing in Serie A, has been quizzed by prosecutors. . . . more . . .
Ballack reveals reasons behind Man Utd snub (May 15, 2006)
Michael Ballack has insisted that his decision to snub Manchester United in favour of a move to English champions Chelsea will prove to be correct. . . . more . . .
Buffon and Totti named in Italy's World Cup squad (May 15, 2006)
Italy coach Marcello Lippi has announced his squad of 23 players for the June 9-July 9 World Cup finals in Germany. . . . more . . .
Lyon pair grab spots as Parreira names Brazil World Cup squad (May 15, 2006)
Brazil coach Carlos Parreira has handed surprise call-ups to France-based pair Fred and Cris when he named his 23-man World Cup squad. . . . more . . .
Last laugh Crouch earmarked to take Rooney's place (May 14, 2006)
Beanpole striker Peter Crouch, so often the target of terrace jibes over his ungainly style, will have the last laugh after Sven-Goran Eriksson earmarked him to take over from the injured Wayne Rooney. . . . more . . .
Penalty-taking: Behind the footballer stands the scientist (May 14, 2006)
Way back in September 1891, when Wolverhampton Wanderers' John Heath, in a match against Accrington Stanley, stepped up to take the world's first penalty, the spotkick was a simple case of hoofing the ball into the back of the net. . . . more . . .
Barthez wins goalkeeper's battle for French World Cup squad (May 14, 2006)
Fabien Barthez will be France's first choice goalkeeper at next month's World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Scandal-hit Juve chief Moggi quits (May 14, 2006)
Luciano Moggi, the under-fire general director of Italian champions Juventus who is at the centre of a huge investigation into match fixing, resigned. . . . more . . .
Shevchenko Chelsea deal long way off: Kenyon (May 14, 2006)
A deal to take Andriy Shevchenko from AC Milan to English champions Chelsea is still a long way off, the Londoners' chief executive Peter Kenyon said. . . . more . . .
Chelsea set to announce Ballack deal (May 14, 2006)
Chelsea have called a press conference at Stamford Bridge on Monday at which they are expected to announce the signing of German midfielder Michael Ballack. . . . more . . .
Juve claim tainted title on final day (May 14, 2006)
Juventus have retained the Serie A title after they won 2-0 away to Reggina on the last day of a season which ended mired in match-fixing allegations. . . . more . . .
Thousands pour into Liverpool streets to cheer Cup winners (May 14, 2006)
Tens of thousands of jubilant fans jammed the streets of Liverpool for the second time in 12 months to welcome home their triumphant football team. . . . more . . .
FIFA set to sign WADA code before World Cup (May 14, 2006)
FIFA will amend its anti-doping regulations to conform with those of the World Anti Doping Agency before the start of the June 9 World Cup, according to WADA. . . . more . . .
Ballack to join Chelsea: Mourinho (May 14, 2006)
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has confirmed that Bayern Munich midfielder Michael Ballack will join the club ahead of next season. . . . more . . .
Rooney on the road to recovery (May 13, 2006)
Hopes that Wayne Rooney will be fit in time for the World Cup finals are on the rise based on the latest medical update on his broken foot. . . . more . . .
Lille and Lens in Europe after last gasp French drama (May 13, 2006)
Lille claimed the final Champions League place and Lens snuck through the back door into the UEFA Cup as former European Cup winners Marseille missed out on Europe altogether on a dramatic finale in France. . . . more . . .
Hearts shoot down Gretna cup dream (May 13, 2006)
Hearts lifted the Scottish Cup for the seventh time with victory over the minnows of Gretna but the Edinburgh side required a penalty shoot-out to see off the brave Second Division champions. . . . more . . .
Barthez on the way out at Marseille (May 13, 2006)
Goalkeeper Fabien Barthez has said he will play his last game for Marseille in the closing French league game at Bordeaux. . . . more . . .
German based stars ready to shine at World Cup (May 13, 2006)
For most footballers, the World Cup used to mean a summer voyage to strange and distant lands. . . . more . . .
Costa Rica striker Wanchope plans World Cup send-off (May 13, 2006)
Paulo Wanchope wants to sign off from international duty by helping Costa Rica reach the last 16 of the World Cup. . . . more . . .
Manchester United's Ronaldo hits back at media (May 13, 2006)
Manchester United's Portuguese winger Cristiano Ronaldo has slated media coverage of his life, particularly during the difficult period that followed the death of his father in September. . . . more . . .
Fulham looking to sell Malbranque (May 13, 2006)
Fulham have transfer-listed their French midfielder Steed Malbranque after he rejected their offer of a new contract. . . . more . . .
Juventus may face relegation if found guilty of match-fixing (May 13, 2006)
Juventus, who along with AC Milan, Fiorentina and Lazio are being investigated for suspected match-fixing, could be relegated from Serie A if found guilty. . . . more . . .
Ulises on a mission at World Cup (May 13, 2006)
The prospect of tackling stars like Michael Ballack at this summer's World Cup holds no fears for Ulises de la Cruz. . . . more . . .
Buffon tries to clear name in suspected betting scandal (May 13, 2006)
Juventus and Italy goalkeeper Buffon visited a Turin prosecutor of his own accord after Italian media reports linked him with suspected illegal betting on Serie A matches. . . . more . . .
Buffon pleads innocence with World Cup at risk (May 13, 2006)
Juventus and Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon pleaded his innocence after Italian media reports linked him with suspected illegal betting on Serie A matches last season. . . . more . . .
Weakened Barca allow Sevilla to keep dreaming (May 13, 2006)
Newly-crowned UEFA Cup winners Sevilla stayed in contention for a Champions League place when they took advantage of a weakened Barcelona to win 3-2. . . . more . . .
Reina's redemption breaks Hammers hearts (May 13, 2006)
Jose Reina redeemed himself in the most extraordinary fashion with three penalty shootout saves to win Liverpool the FA Cup after a classic final encounter with West Ham. . . . more . . .
Germany must prepare for Klinsmann exit says Beckenbauer (May 13, 2006)
West Germany's 1974 World Cup victor Franz Beckenbauer says his country should start thinking about possible successors to manager Jurgen Klinsmann in case he quits after next month's World Cup. . . . more . . .
Zidane blasts Perez for Real dressing-room split (May 13, 2006)
France World Cup winner Zinedine Zidane blamed the policies of former president Florentino Perez for the demise of Spanish giants Real Madrid in an outburst. . . . more . . .
Shootout delight again for Liverpool as Hammers are blunted (May 13, 2006)
Liverpool won the English FA Cup final here by beating West Ham on penalties after the match finished 3-3 after extra-time. . . . more . . .
Klose fires Bremen to second, Kaiserslautern relegated (May 13, 2006)
Werder Bremen clinched second place and direct entry to the Champions League with a 2-1 win at SV Hamburg. . . . more . . .
Totti demands tough punishment for cheats (May 12, 2006)
Roma captain Francesco Totti has demanded stiff sanctions for those found guilty in the ever-widening Italian football scandal that has tarnished the country's favourite game. . . . more . . .
Alonso boost for Reds as Hammers sweat on crocked duo (May 12, 2006)
Xabi Alonso appeared to be winning his battle to be fit for Liverpool's FA Cup final meeting with West Ham. . . . more . . .
Growing scandal threatens to overwhelm Italian football (May 12, 2006)
Italian football was plunged into crisis as Serie A giants Juventus, AC Milan, Fiorentina and Lazio were formally placed under investigation for alleged match-fixing. . . . more . . .
Croatia announce 24-man squad (May 12, 2006)
Croatia football coach Zlatko Kranjcar announced a provisional 24-man squad for the June 9 to July 9 World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Net widens in Italian football scandal (May 12, 2006)
The public prosecutor of Naples said that Serie A clubs Juventus, AC Milan, Fiorentina and Lazio were formally being investigated for alleged match-fixing last season. . . . more . . .
Berlusconi says Shevchenko heading for Premiership (May 12, 2006)
AC Milan owner Silvio Berlusconi said the club's star striker Andriy Shevchenko could be heading for the English Premiership this summer. . . . more . . .
Leverkusen tie down Juan until 2009 (May 12, 2006)
Brazil international defender Juan has signed a contract extension until 2009 with German club Bayer Leverkusen, the club announced. . . . more . . .
German doctors warn World Cup fans over measles outbreak (May 12, 2006)
German health experts warned football fans coming to the World Cup to have themselves vaccinated against measles, following an outbreak in a state that will host 11 matches. . . . more . . .
Prince William to attend England World Cup match (May 12, 2006)
World Cup organisers confirmed that Prince William, the second in line to the British throne, will attend England's opening match against Paraguay on June 10. . . . more . . .
Chelsea determined to keep wantaway Gallas (May 12, 2006)
Chelsea have ruled out selling William Gallas despite the French defender announcing that he was determined to leave Stamford Bridge this summer. . . . more . . .
Shevchenko considering leaving AC Milan (May 12, 2006)
AC Milan's star striker Andriy Shevchenko admitted he is thinking about leaving the club. . . . more . . .
Portuguese tax man seizes Ovchinnikov's property (May 12, 2006)
Tax officials in Portugal have put property belonging to Dynamo Moscow's international keeper Sergei Ovchinnikov on the market to collect unpaid back taxes, daily newspaper 24Horas reported. . . . more . . .
Kasperczak takes over Senegal hotseat (May 12, 2006)
Henri Kasperczak was appointed coach of Senegal, according to Senegalese Football Federation president Mbaye Ndoye. . . . more . . .
Alleged betting scandal adds to Juve's woes (May 12, 2006)
Juventus' name was dragged deeper into the mire after Italian media reported that one current and three former players are being investigated for illegal gambling on Serie A matches. . . . more . . .
Marathon man Gerrard seeks FA Cup tonic for road to Germany (May 12, 2006)
Steven Gerrard claims lifting the FA Cup for Liverpool on Saturday will give him the perfect platform for the World Cup after his marathon season at Anfield. . . . more . . .
Bulgarian star Berbatov close to Tottenham switch (May 11, 2006)
English Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur are on the brink of signing Bulgarian international striker Dimitar Berbatov from Bayer Leverkusen, the German club said. . . . more . . .
Robert to join Rangers (May 11, 2006)
Benfica's under-fire French striker Laurent Robert is set to join Scottish giants Rangers, the Portuguese sporting daily A Bola reported. . . . more . . .
Polish, German police test hooligan-pacifying techniques (May 11, 2006)
Polish and German police staged a joint exercise to test their readiness to deal with Polish hooligans, many of whom are expected to try to cross into Germany for the football World Cup. . . . more . . .
WADA threatens FIFA with Olympic axe (May 11, 2006)
Football faces the axe from the Olympic Games if FIFA fails to comply with the world anti-doping code as set out by the World Anti Doping Agency (WADA), it's president Dick Pound announced. . . . more . . .
US football league unveils new Toronto club (May 11, 2006)
US-based Major League Soccer unveiled a Canadian expansion club, launching Toronto F.C. as a 13th team to start play in 2007 and one that could lure Canadians from other global leagues. . . . more . . .
South Korea can shock the world -- again, says coach (May 11, 2006)
South Korea's coach Dick Advocaat named a 23-man World Cup squad and said it was capable of pulling off a surprise in Germany. . . . more . . .
Polish, German police prepare for World Cup hooligans (May 11, 2006)
Polish and German security officials teamed up for an exercise in subduing aggressive, unruly Polish football fans, many of whom are expected to try to cross into Germany for this summer's World Cup. . . . more . . .
Walcott could start for England: Wenger (May 11, 2006)
Arsene Wenger has urged England to hand Theo Walcott more than just a walk-on part in the World Cup. . . . more . . .
Queiroz staying put at Manchester United (May 11, 2006)
Manchester United's assistant coach Carlos Queiroz, who has been cited as a likely candidate to take the helm of Benfica, said he was staying put at the English club. . . . more . . .
Scandal prompts Juve board to quit (May 11, 2006)
The entire board of Serie A giants Juventus resigned over the phone tap scandal that has rocked Italian football. . . . more . . .
Ballack departure could benefit Bayern says Magath (May 11, 2006)
Bayern Munich manager Felix Magath believes Michael Ballack's summer transfer to English champions Chelsea could actually help his team to play better football next season. . . . more . . .
Five Australian clubs chase free agent Lazaridis (May 11, 2006)
Stan Lazaridis, released by relegated English Premier League side Birmingham City, said he is being pursued by five Australian A-League clubs and four English clubs. . . . more . . .
Gerrard sees method in Eriksson's 'madness' (May 11, 2006)
Steven Gerrard has backed Sven-Goran Eriksson's judgement over the shock decision to include 17-year-old striker Theo Walcott in England's World Cup squad. . . . more . . .
Royle leaves Ipswich (May 11, 2006)
Joe Royle has left Championship side Ipswich Town after failing to guide the team to the Premiership, the club announced. . . . more . . .
AirAsia to renew multi-million dollar deal with Manchester United (May 11, 2006)
Malaysian low-cost carrier AirAsia will renew a sponsorship deal with Manchester United worth 5.6 million dollars in a move officials are hopeful will further woo foreign tourists to Asia. . . . more . . .
Inter retain Italian Cup as Totti returns (May 11, 2006)
Inter Milan retained the Italian Cup after beating Roma 3-1 for a 4-2 aggregate victory in the two-legged final. . . . more . . .
Italian football scandal takes another twist (May 11, 2006)
The scandal that has rocked Italian football took another twist after World Cup refereee Massimo De Santis turned up at the offices of a Naples prosecutor seeking an explanation after media reports linked him with their investigation into sporting fraud. . . . more . . .
Shearer bids farewell with a goal (May 11, 2006)
Alan Shearer brought the curtain down on his playing career by doing what he has always done - scoring a goal. . . . more . . .
Tevez and Mascherano released by Corinthians (May 11, 2006)
Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano have been released by their Brazilian club Corinthians for treatment by Argentina team doctors before next month's World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Germany's Kahn to carry on after World Cup (May 10, 2006)
German international goalkeeper Oliver Kahn says it was by no means certain that he would quit the national team after next month's World Cup finals in his homeland. . . . more . . .
Olympiakos complete league and cup double (May 10, 2006)
Olympiakos beat AEK Athens 3-0 in the Greek Cup final on the island of Crete to complete a league and cup double. . . . more . . .
Vieri out of World Cup (May 10, 2006)
Italy striker Christian Vieri will play no part in next month's World Cup after injuring his left knee in French league action, coach Marcello Lippi confirmed. . . . more . . .
Blind sacked by Ajax (May 10, 2006)
Ajax have sacked coach Danny Blind after he had been in charge for just over one year. . . . more . . .
Roeder cleared for Newcastle job (May 10, 2006)
The English Premier League has cleared the way for Newcastle to appoint Glenn Roeder as their new manager despite his lack of coaching qualifications. . . . more . . .
Sickening blow for Spurs as Premier League turn down replay request (May 10, 2006)
Spurs hopes of a Champions League lifeline were dashed as the FA Premier League rejected their request to replay Sunday's match at West Ham. . . . more . . .
No fairytale farewell for McClaren as Sevilla romp to victory (May 10, 2006)
There was no storybook ending to Steve McClaren's reign as Middlesbrough coach as his side were thrashed 4-0 by Sevilla in the UEFA Cup final here on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Argentina's Heinze and Messi picked for World Cup (May 10, 2006)
Manchester United defender Gabriel Heinze and Barcelona striker Lionel Messi will both be in Argentina's final World Cup squad although they are still recovering from injuries, coach Jose Pekerman said. . . . more . . .
Kennedy, Milligan surprise choices in Aussie World Cup squad (May 10, 2006)
Uncapped youngsters Josh Kennedy and Mark Milligan were surprise inclusions in Australia's 23-man squad for next month's World Cup finals in Germany. . . . more . . .
Early World Cup exit possible says Ballack (May 10, 2006)
Germany captain Michael Ballack admits he is unsure of how the host nation will fare at next month's World Cup because so many young players form the nucleus of Jurgen Klinsmann's team. . . . more . . .
175,000 press Klinsmann on Scholl World Cup inclusion (May 10, 2006)
The clamour to include Bayern Munich midfielder Mehmet Scholl in Germany's final World Cup squad continues to grow with 175,000 Germans signing a petition for his inclusion. . . . more . . .
Cisse sees FA Cup final as ticket to World Cup (May 10, 2006)
Djibril Cisse is targeting a match-winning performance for Liverpool in Saturday's FA Cup final against West Ham in a bid to seal his place in France's World Cup squad. . . . more . . .
Juventus scandal adds weight to foul play accusations (May 10, 2006)
Juventus have for many years been accused by their rivals of lining the pockets of referees to influence results, and the latest scandal to rock Italian football only adds weight to their suspicions. . . . more . . .
McClaren looks to fulfil UEFA Cup destiny (May 10, 2006)
The Middlesbrough manager Steve McClaren is an habitually cautious man, but in the past few weeks even he has allowed himself to muse on whether his side's progress to the UEFA Cup final might be their destiny. . . . more . . .
Beer at all World Cup stadia say German organisers (May 10, 2006)
German organisers have confirmed that football fans would be allowed to consume alcohol at next month's World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Egypt's Zamalek invites Palestinian PM to football match (May 10, 2006)
Egypt's Zamalek football club has invited Palestinian prime minister Ismail Haniya to attend the upcoming clash with city rivals Ahly and promised to donate part of the proceeds to the Palestinian people. . . . more . . .
Wigan release Henchoz and Thompson (May 10, 2006)
Wigan have released Swiss defender Stephane Henchoz and midfielder David Thompson, two of the players who helped the Lancashire club finish 10th in their first season in the Premiership. . . . more . . .
Switzerland to have last laugh (May 10, 2006)
Switzerland striker Alexander Frei has vowed to have the last laugh by guiding his country to World Cup glory in Germany on July 9. . . . more . . .
Gunners top of the league in earnings (May 10, 2006)
Arsenal may have struggled in fourth place in the Premiership but their exploits in Europe allowed them to top the earnings league for the English top flight. . . . more . . .
Crouch backs Walcott to be World Cup star (May 10, 2006)
Peter Crouch claims Theo Walcott has the potential to prove as exciting as Wayne Rooney on the international stage following the 17-year-old's shock elevation into England's World Cup squad. . . . more . . .
Larsson receives royal stamp of approval (May 09, 2006)
Veteran Swedish international striker Henrik Larsson received the Member of the British Empire awarded to him by Queen Elizabeth II in the New Year Day's Honours List. . . . more . . .
Turn out testimony to Keane's United legend (May 09, 2006)
Roy Keane's iconic status among Manchester United fans despite his rancorous departure late last year was confirmed as 69,951 fans turned out for his testimonial match between the Red Devils and his present team Celtic. . . . more . . .
Bolton still interested in Japan's Nakata (May 09, 2006)
Bolton Wanderers said they were still interested in Japanese midfielder Hidetoshi Nakata after he played one mediocre season on loan to the English Premier League club. . . . more . . .
Ruud 'booted out' by Ferguson (May 09, 2006)
Ruud van Nistelrooy did not walk out on Manchester United last weekend he was booted out by Sir Alex Ferguson, it was reported. . . . more . . .
England player in nightclub brawl (May 09, 2006)
Wayne Bridge, a player selected for England's World Cup, was caught up in a brawl at a London nightclub party featuring a host of Premiership stars. . . . more . . .
Ruud reveals 'pain' at missing Keane testimonial (May 09, 2006)
Ruud van Nistelrooy said it was "painful" for him to be missing former Manchester United teammate Roy Keane's testimonial at Old Trafford after reports suggested the Dutch striker had been booted out of Old Trafford by manager Sir Alex Ferguson. . . . more . . .
US squad gathers for World Cup training camp (May 09, 2006)
Three players still have some unfinished work in Europe, but the bulk of the 23-man American roster for next month's World Cup will assemble here for workouts that begin Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Carr's Chelsea red card chalked off (May 09, 2006)
Newcastle full-back Stephen Carr has had the red-card he received in last weekend's victory over Premiership champions Chelsea rescinded. . . . more . . .
Dickov asked for view on Sommeil 'incident' (May 09, 2006)
The Football Association have written to Paul Dickov following allegations Frenchman David Sommeil spat at the Blackburn Rovers striker. . . . more . . .
Watch out for Angola at World Cup, Eusebio warns Portugal (May 09, 2006)
Legendary striker Eusebio has warned Portugal's squad against complacency during the group stage at the World Cup which it will begin with a match against debutants Angola in Germany on June 11. . . . more . . .
Bulgaria beat Japan 2-1 in Kirin Cup (May 09, 2006)
Hristo Yanev struck home a decider in injury time to give Bulgaria a 2-1 victory over Japan in Kirin Cup football, dealing a blow to the Asian champions' World Cup preparations. . . . more . . .
Middlesbrough fully-fit for final (May 09, 2006)
Middlesbrough manager Steve McClaren has left for Eindhoven with a fully-fit squad for Wednesday's UEFA Cup final against Sevilla. . . . more . . .
Howard on loan to Everton (May 09, 2006)
Manchester United goalkeeper Tim Howard is to join Everton on a 12-month loan deal this summer. . . . more . . .
Japan's Nakata to leave Bolton (May 09, 2006)
Japanese star midfielder Hidetoshi Nakata is set to leave Bolton following a mediocre performance in his first season with the English Premier League team. . . . more . . .
England call-up is no joke, Walcott says (May 09, 2006)
England starlet Theo Walcott thought his dad was pulling his leg when he called him to tell him he had been included in England's World Cup squad. . . . more . . .
Ribery staying at Marseille, club says (May 09, 2006)
Marseille have vowed to hold on to star midfielder Franck Ribery despite the interest shown by French champions Lyon in securing his services. . . . more . . .
Scholl extends Bayern contract (May 09, 2006)
Veteran former German international midfielder Mehmet Scholl extended his contract with German champions Bayern Munich for a year. . . . more . . .
Eriksson to make Walcott youngest England player (May 09, 2006)
Sven-Goran Eriksson has confirmed that he will make Theo Walcott the youngest England international in history after including the untried Arsenal forward in his World Cup squad. . . . more . . .
Liverpool chief slams Millennium in ticket row (May 09, 2006)
Liverpool chief executive Rick Parry has blasted officials at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium over their refusal to issue replacement tickets for this Saturday's FA Cup final after a raid on a Royal Mail van. . . . more . . .
Domenech to announce World Cup squad on Sunday (May 09, 2006)
France will name their squad for the World Cup finals on Sunday the national coach Raymond Domenech said. . . . more . . .
Briegel resigns as Albanian coach over contract dispute (May 09, 2006)
Hans-Peter Briegel resigned as Albanian national coach after negotiations over a new contract broke down ending a three year spell in charge. . . . more . . .
Spurs ask Premier League for West Ham replay (May 09, 2006)
Tottenham Hotspur have tried to keep their bid for Champions League football next season alive by asking the Premier League for a replay of their match against West Ham after several of their players were struck down by food poisoning on the morning of the match. . . . more . . .
Defiant Milan vow to fight to the finish (May 08, 2006)
AC Milan insist they will fight to the bitter end in the race for the Serie A title, which will be decided on the final day of the season next weekend. . . . more . . .
Eriksson gambles on Walcott for World Cup (May 08, 2006)
Sven-Goran Eriksson has sprung the biggest surprise of his five-year reign as England coach by including 17-year-old forward Theo Walcott, who has not even played for the Arsenal first team, in his squad for the World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Koeman returns to PSV as coach (May 08, 2006)
Benfica coach Ronald Koeman said he was leaving the Portuguese club to manage newly-crowned Dutch champions PSV Eindhoven, who he helped lead to the European Cup in 1988, on a two year contract. . . . more . . .
Walcott and Lennon included in England World Cup squad (May 08, 2006)
Youngsters Theo Walcott and Aaron Lennon have been included in England's provisional World Cup squad while Jermain Defoe, Shaun Wright-Phillips and Ledley King missed out. . . . more . . .
Liverpool hopeful Alonso will make FA Cup final (May 08, 2006)
Liverpool are hopeful that Spanish midfielder Xabi Alonso will be fit for Saturday's FA Cup final despite suffering ankle ligament damage. . . . more . . .
Shevchenko in fitness race for World Cup (May 08, 2006)
AC Milan striker Andriy Shevchenko faces a battle to be fit in time for the start of the World Cup after damaging ligaments in his left knee. . . . more . . .
Argentine ace D'Alessandro wants Pompey stay (May 08, 2006)
Argentine international Andres D'Alessandro says he is keen to stay at English Premiership side Portsmouth after a five-month loan spell at Fratton Park. . . . more . . .
Togo set to be first team to arrive for World Cup (May 08, 2006)
With the World Cup just 32 days away, some of the 32 qualified nations are soon to arrive at their respective bases across Germany with African debutants Togo set to be the first to arrive on May 15. . . . more . . .
Schalke snub Bayern Lincoln bid (May 08, 2006)
Schalke 04 has confirmed that they had turned down a six-million-euro bid for their Brazilian playmaker Lincoln from German champions Bayern Munich. . . . more . . .
Spurs await food test results (May 08, 2006)
Tottenham are awaiting the results of food tests before considering legal action against the Marriott Hotel or the Premier League in connection with the food poisoning incident that marred their final game of the season. . . . more . . .
Juve threaten boardroom overhaul after Moggi ref scandal (May 08, 2006)
Juventus are threatening a boardroom overhaul to improve the Serie A club's image which has been tarnished by the scandal involving their general director Luciano Moggi. . . . more . . .
FIFA threatens to suspend Cambodian football federation (May 08, 2006)
FIFA has threatened to suspend Cambodia's membership and ban its teams from international football, saying the Cambodian Football Federation (CFF) is too politically influenced. . . . more . . .
Benfica's Koeman returns to Dutch champions PSV as coach (May 08, 2006)
Benfica coach Ronald Koeman said he had signed a two year contract with newly-crowned Dutch champions PSV Eindhoven, who he helped lead to the European Cup in 1988. . . . more . . .
Dutch veteran Davids left out in the cold (May 08, 2006)
Dutch veteran Edgar Davids has been left out in the cold by coach Marco van Basten who announced Holland's 28-man, World Cup pre-squad. . . . more . . .
Portugal seeking to ditch 'Jekyll and Hyde' persona at World Cup (May 08, 2006)
Portugal are aiming to overcome their split personality as they make a place in the World Cup quarter-finals their minimum objective. . . . more . . .
Italian football in turmoil as chief resigns (May 08, 2006)
Italian football was plunged into turmoil as Franco Carraro, the president of the Italian football federation, resigned because of the ongoing scandal surrounding Juventus and their general director Luciano Moggi. . . . more . . .
Ferguson dunked by Everton (May 08, 2006)
Former Scotland international striker Duncan Ferguson was released by Premiership side Everton but at least bowed out having scored in their last match on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Robson sounds alarm bells over Eriksson gamble on Walcott (May 08, 2006)
Sven-Goran Eriksson's decision to take untried teenager Theo Walcott to the World Cup has been criticised as an unnecessary gamble by Sir Bobby Robson, one of the Swede's most successful predecessors as England boss. . . . more . . .
Mexico sow seeds of optimism for World Cup (May 08, 2006)
Eyebrows were unfairly raised when FIFA announced that Mexico would be one of the eight seeds at the World Cup -- but the CONCACAF qualifiers have more than justified their status. . . . more . . .
Iran plannng an inside job at World Cup (May 08, 2006)
Iran will look to their Bundesliga-based contingent of key players for inspiration as they aim to reach the second round of the World Cup for the first time. . . . more . . .
Jol settles for UEFA Cup spot (May 08, 2006)
Martin Jol refused to blame the food poisoning that left 10 of his squad ill the night before kick-off for Tottenham's failure to hold on to fourth place in the Premiership. . . . more . . .
Van Nistelrooy fate to be decided after Old Trafford walkout (May 08, 2006)
Ruud van Nistelrooy will know by Tuesday at the latest if he has any future at Manchester United after walking out of the ground rather than appear as a substitute in the club's final game of the season. . . . more . . .
Benitez sets sights on Premiership title (May 08, 2006)
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez believes his side can challenge Chelsea for the Premiership title next season after ending this term's campaign with a 3-1 win away to Portsmouth. . . . more . . .
Barca loom large as Arsenal end Highbury era with a flourish (May 08, 2006)
After bringing down the curtain on their time at Highbury in spectacular fashion, Arsenal are focusing on their first European Cup final, against Barcelona. . . . more . . .
Roeder fears Owen facing World Cup KO (May 08, 2006)
Glenn Roeder revealed his fears over Michael Owen's fitness for the World Cup after Newcastle United edged out Premier League champions Chelsea 1-0 to secure a return to European football. . . . more . . .
'Elephants' hope to have rivals packing their trunks (May 07, 2006)
Of all of Africa's four debutantes at the World Cup, Ivory Coast could be the side best placed to spring a shock. . . . more . . .
Van Nistelrooy set for United exit after walkout (May 07, 2006)
Ruud van Nistelrooy appears certain to have played his last game for Manchester United after Sir Alex Ferguson confirmed he will consider the Dutch striker's future this week following his controversial walkout from Old Trafford. . . . more . . .
Mokoena injury mars Blackburn win (May 07, 2006)
South Africa defender Aaron Mokoena left Ewood Park on crutches after being stretched off from Blackburn's 2-0 win over Manchester City with a serious leg injury. . . . more . . .
Zidane scores but Villarreal draw spoils goodbye (May 07, 2006)
Real Madrid's Zinedine Zidane scored on his final appearance at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium but visitors Villarreal soured his goodbye party by holding the Spanish giants to 3-3 draw. . . . more . . .
United clinch second despite Van Nistelrooy exit (May 07, 2006)
Ruud van Nistelrooy's controversial walkout did not distract Manchester United from gaining the victory they needed to secure second place in the Premiership and an automatic berth in next season's Champions League, courtesy of a 4-0 win over Charlton at Old Trafford. . . . more . . .
Zidane bids Bernabeu farewell as Cadiz relegated (May 07, 2006)
Real Madrid's Zinedine Zidane bid a moving farewell to the Santiago Bernabeu while, at the other end of the Spanish first division, Cadiz endured an emotional night for all the wrong reasons as they were relegated. . . . more . . .
Serbians plotting an ambush in the 'Group of Death' (May 07, 2006)
Lost amid the qualifying dramas embroiling some of Europe's more glamorous teams was the serene progress towards a place in the finals by Serbia and Montenegro. . . . more . . .
Premiership just as crucial as Europe, says Robben (May 07, 2006)
Chelsea winger Arjen Robben believes that becoming the first team to win three Premiership titles in a row would mean as much as clinching an elusive Champions League crown. . . . more . . .
Spurs set for Champions League limbo (May 07, 2006)
Tottenham Hotspur know that even if they beat fellow Londoners West Ham, the final day of the Premiership season and finish in fourth place they may yet be denied a place in next term's Champions League. . . . more . . .
Mokoena injury blow for Blackburn as Tugay sees red (May 07, 2006)
Zurab Zhizanishvili's first goal for Blackburn helped Mark Hughes's side sign off the Premiership season in style as Rovers overcame Tugay's red-card to beat Manchester City 2-0 at Ewood Park. . . . more . . .
Crouch's efforts in vain as Liverpool miss out on second (May 07, 2006)
Peter Crouch came off the bench to inspire Liverpool to a club record 11th successive win but a 3-1 victory away to Portsmouth at Fratton Park was not enough to earn Rafael Benitez's side second place in the Premiership. . . . more . . .
Spurs sickened by knockout blow to Champions League dream (May 07, 2006)
Tottenham Hotspur were left feeling as sick as their players who succumbed to food poisoning the night before kick-off as a 2-1 defeat at West Ham ensured they missed out on their dream of a Champions League place. . . . more . . .
Henry hat-trick wraps up Highbury era in style (May 07, 2006)
Thierry Henry scored a hat-trick as Arsenal said goodbye to Highbury with a 4-2 win over Wigan which also guaranteed a place in the Champions League next season. . . . more . . .
Argentina keeping lid on expectations (May 07, 2006)
If Brazil are the favorites to triumph in Germany, then bitter rivals Argentina are perhaps the team most widely expected to push them all the way. . . . more . . .
Ferguson slams 'half-baked' Rooney plan (May 07, 2006)
Alex Ferguson has accused England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson of having a "half-baked idea" regarding Wayne Rooney's battle to be fit for the World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Okocha bids Bolton farewell (May 07, 2006)
Nigerian international midfielder Jay-Jay Okocha's career in the English Premiership with Bolton Wanderers has ended, the club confirmed. . . . more . . .
Henry fairytale at Highbury leaves Spurs sick (May 07, 2006)
A Thierry Henry hat-trick ensured Arsenal will be back in the Champions League next season as local rivals Tottenham endured a final day of the Premiership season that was sickening in every sense. . . . more . . .
Cadiz relegated, Alaves on the brink of going down (May 07, 2006)
Cadiz, last season's second division champions, were relegated straight back to the lower league when they lost 3-1 at Getafe. . . . more . . .
Ballack to name new club before WC (May 07, 2006)
Bayern Munich midfielder Michael Ballack has said he would name the club he will join next season just before the World Cup. . . . more . . .
Owen World Cup fears mount as Magpies end season on high (May 07, 2006)
Fears over Michael Owen's fitness for the World Cup resurfaced as Newcastle United edged out Premier League Champions Chelsea 1-0 to secure a return to European football. . . . more . . .
Van Nistelrooy walks out ahead of Charlton match (May 07, 2006)
Ruud van Nistelrooy placed a huge question mark over his Manchester United future by walking out of Old Trafford hours before the club's final Premiership match of the season against Charlton. . . . more . . .
Serie A title race goes down to wire as Juve and AC Milan win (May 07, 2006)
The Serie A title race will go right down to the wire after leaders Juventus and their closest challengers AC Milan both won their penultimate matches. . . . more . . .
Spurs match to go ahead despite players sickness (May 07, 2006)
Tottenham Hotspur have confirmed that their crunch match at West Ham will go ahead despite a number of players going down with food poisoning. . . . more . . .
Desailly officially calls time on career (May 07, 2006)
French World Cup winner Marcel Desailly officially announced that he was retiring as a player. . . . more . . .
Ferguson sets his sights on victory finale (May 07, 2006)
Wayne Rooney may be absent but Sir Alex Ferguson has warned his Manchester United players that only a victory will do against Charlton Athletic in the club's final game of the season. . . . more . . .
Arsenal aiming for fitting farewell (May 07, 2006)
Arsenal will say goodbye to their home of 93 years when they play Wigan at Highbury. . . . more . . .
Roeder wants focus back on Euro chance (May 07, 2006)
Glenn Roeder is concerned that the growing uncertainty over his future will distract Newcastle United from their bid to qualify for Europe. . . . more . . .
Ferguson urges senior English players to shoulder World Cup burden (May 07, 2006)
Alex Ferguson has called on a quartet of senior English players to step up to the plate in the World Cup. . . . more . . .
McClaren confident of England success (May 07, 2006)
Steve McLaren, who takes over the England manager's job after the World Cup, has said the team he will inherit is due a big prize. . . . more . . .
Honest Pearce admits he must improve as a manager (May 07, 2006)
Former England defender Stuart Pearce has admitted he must improve in his job after enduring a mixed season in charge at Manchester City manager. . . . more . . .
Will the real Dutch please stand up? (May 07, 2006)
The Netherlands might just be the most infuriating team in world football. . . . more . . .
Marseille vent Euro rage at second-string Lyon (May 06, 2006)
Marseille believe their dreams of Champions League football next season have been sabotaged by Lyon's controversial decision to field a second-string team against fellow European hopefuls Lille. . . . more . . .
Rooney should focus on fitness first says Van der Sar (May 06, 2006)
Dutch international goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar believes his injured Manchester United teammate Wayne Rooney should play down his ambitions of playing at the World Cup and concentrate on getting fit instead. . . . more . . .
McClaren to seek help from Venables (May 06, 2006)
Steve McLaren, who takes over the England manager's job after the World Cup, is expected to ask for help from, among others, former boss Terry Venables. . . . more . . .
Watford wallop Palace in semi-final playoff (May 06, 2006)
Premiership hopefuls Watford took a big step in their bid to win promotion from the Championship with a convincing 3-0 win away to Crystal Palace in their promotion play-off first leg clash. . . . more . . .
Livi set new Scottish Premier League low (May 06, 2006)
Livingston became statistically the worst team in the history of the Scottish Premier League as this season's basement club lost 1-0 at Falkirk. . . . more . . .
Barca celebrate championship with derby win (May 06, 2006)
Spanish champions Barcelona continued their celebrations in relaxed fashion with a 2-0 win over their struggling local rivals Espanyol. . . . more . . .
Sommeil target of racial abuse claims (May 06, 2006)
Manchester City defender David Sommeil has said he has been the target of racial abuse following an incident with Arsenal's Robin van Persie. . . . more . . .
Domestic dominance but European failure for Bayern (May 06, 2006)
Bayern Munich may be also-rans in European football but their domination of German football remains as strong as ever after collecting a 20th Bundesliga title this season. . . . more . . .
Premiership clubs celebrate TV deal (May 06, 2006)
English Premiership clubs were celebrating after a 1.7 billion pound, three-year deal was struck between BSkyB and Setanta for Premier League audio-visual rights, ensuring they remain the richest league in the world. . . . more . . .
Mourinho plays down Tevez link (May 06, 2006)
Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has played down speculation that the club will sign Corinthians striker Carlos Tevez. . . . more . . .
Historic Bayern win league title to clinch double (May 06, 2006)
BERLIN AFP) - Bayern Munich have clinched their 20th German title after a 1-1 draw with Kaiserslautern as they became the first team to win the league and cup double in consecutive seasons. . . . more . . .
Lille in sight of Champions League (May 06, 2006)
Lille made the most of champions Lyon's decision to send out a weakened team to cruise to a 4-0 victory and take a huge step closer to Champions League football next season. . . . more . . .
I'm not envious of Ronaldinho says Ronaldo (May 06, 2006)
Real Madrid star Ronaldo reportedly said he was not envious that Ronaldinho was considered the best player in the world and also predicted Brazil would win their sixth World Cup title. . . . more . . .
Ferguson angry second still open (May 05, 2006)
Sir Alex Ferguson is frustrated that Manchester United head into Sunday's final round of Premiership matches having failed to clinch second spot in the table. . . . more . . .
Cyprus politics, football clash amid title fever (May 05, 2006)
A thrilling three-way race for the Cyprus football championship, a parliamentary election campaign and a flurry of conspiracy theories -- an explosive mixture set to ignite this weekend. . . . more . . .
Portugal offers players record prize if win World Cup (May 05, 2006)
The Portuguese Football Federation is offering national team players their biggest-ever bonus if they win the 2006 World Cup, the president of the federation has said. . . . more . . .
Cole aiming for late flourish (May 05, 2006)
Ashley Cole hopes to put the memory of what has been an injury-wrecked season behind him with some bold displays for both club and country. . . . more . . .
Newcastle upbeat about Roeder chances (May 05, 2006)
Newcastle believe they can win approval from the Premier League to allow them to install caretaker boss Glenn Roeder as their permanent manager. . . . more . . .
German Briegel to coach Albania for two more years (May 05, 2006)
Former German international Hans-Peter Briegel has extended his coaching contract with Albania for another two years, officials said. . . . more . . .
Fowler extends Liverpool contract (May 05, 2006)
Robbie Fowler has extended his contract at English Premiership giants Liverpool for another season after agreeing to sign a new one-year contract. . . . more . . .
Copenhagen to host 2007 Homeless World Cup (May 05, 2006)
Copenhagen will be host next year to the Homeless World Cup, a street soccer tournament expected to bring together homeless people from 48 countries around the world, organisers said. . . . more . . .
Greenland favourites to land Wild Cup (May 05, 2006)
What do Tibet, Gibraltar, Greenland, Zanzibar and Hamburg's FC St Pauli have in common? . . . more . . .
Boro chief Gibson slams Dein's England role (May 05, 2006)
Middlesbrough chairman Steve Gibson has hit out at the role played by "kingmaker" David Dein in the drawn-out series of events that led to Steve McClaren's appointment as England manager. . . . more . . .
Henry named player of the year (May 05, 2006)
Arsenal captain Thierry Henry has been named player of the year by English Premiership sponsors. . . . more . . .
In world's youngest nation, soccer unites (May 05, 2006)
Eleven-year-old Nuno de Oliveira intently watches a late afternoon football match on a muddy, barely marked field in East Timor's capital. . . . more . . .
FA confirm lack of Wenger appoach (May 05, 2006)
The Football Association (FA) stressed again that no approach had been made to Arsene Wenger to succeed Sven-Goran Eriksson as England manager because the Arsenal boss had not wanted the job. . . . more . . .
US lawmaker, rights groups, blast Germany over "World Cup brothels" (May 05, 2006)
A US lawmaker and rights groups have accused Germany of doing little to prevent the exploitation of women during the World Cup, with one expert calling Berlin an official "pimp" for the event. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo set to miss Zizou's Bernabeu farewell (May 05, 2006)
Real Madrid's Brazilian World Cup winner Ronaldo is set to miss out on French star Zinedine Zidane's Bernabeu farewell against Villarreal on Sunday as he is still recovering from a muscle tear, the club said. . . . more . . .
Super-sub Reyes keeps Gunners in Champions League hunt (May 04, 2006)
Two late goals by Spanish substitute Jose Antonio Reyes earned Arsenal a 3-1 win away to Manchester City at Eastlands and kept Arsene Wenger's side on course for a top-four Premiership finish. . . . more . . .
Security chiefs deny 400 World Cup accreditations (May 04, 2006)
Security officials for next month's World Cup finals in Germany have rejected 400 accreditation requests, the head of the World Cup's police deployment working group in Berlin said. . . . more . . .
Rangers broken as Hearts take historic Champions League spot (May 04, 2006)
Hearts caretaker coach Valdas Ivanauskas paid tribute to his predecessors George Burley and Graham Rix after the Tynecastle club clinched second place in the Scottish Premier League and their first ever spot in the Champions League. . . . more . . .
McClaren named as new England manager (May 04, 2006)
Steve McClaren was named as the new England manager, in succession to Sven-Goran Eriksson, by the Football Association (FA). . . . more . . .
Real Madrid survive late fright to go second in Spain (May 04, 2006)
Real Madrid regained second spot in the Spanish first division with a 3-2 win at Racing Santander, but had to survive a late fight back as the struggling hosts got two goals in the last 15 minutes. . . . more . . .
Hamburg duo sign on until 2010 (May 04, 2006)
SV Hamburg received a boost with Dutch international Khalid Boulahrouz and Ivory Coast international Guy Demel extending their contracts at the AOL-Arena until June 2010. . . . more . . .
Rooney to get oxygen treatment says Ferguson (May 04, 2006)
Sir Alex Ferguson has said injured England striker Wayne Rooney will use an oxygen chamber in a bid to boost his chances of playing in next month's World Cup finals in Germany. . . . more . . .
Ferguson backs McClaren for England job (May 04, 2006)
Sir Alex Ferguson backed his former Manchester United deputy Steve McClaren to be a successful England coach as the Middlesbrough manager's appointment to succeed Sven-Goran Eriksson was on the verge of being rubber-stamped by the Football Association (FA) on Thursday. . . . more . . .
Italian league opens inquiry into Juve ref scandal (May 04, 2006)
Juventus could face sanctions for sporting fraud after the Italian Football Federation announced the opening of an inquiry into allegations that Juve's general director Luciano Moggi chose referees for the team's matches. . . . more . . .
Eriksson runs rule over Hargreaves ahead of World Cup (May 04, 2006)
Bayern Munich midfielder Owen Hargreaves admits he is hopeful of securing a place in England's World Cup squad after national coach Sven Goran Eriksson came to watch him in Bayern's 3-1 win over VfB Stuttgart on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Blackburn snap up Hughes until 2009 (May 04, 2006)
Blackburn manager Mark Hughes has agreed a new contract that will keep him at the northern English Premiership club until at least 2009. . . . more . . .
African football pillaged by dreams of the promised land (May 04, 2006)
Where once it was diamonds and other precious raw materials, now Europe is plundering Africa of the jewels in its footballing crown. . . . more . . .
England coach-elect McClaren arrives at FA HQ (May 04, 2006)
Steve McClaren, widely expected to be announced as the new England coach in succession to Sven-Goran Eriksson, arrived at the Football Association's central London headquarters at approximately 3.40pm local time (1440GMT). . . . more . . .
Terry given all clear by Chelsea for World Cup (May 04, 2006)
Chelsea have backed their captain John Terry to be fit enough to make it into England's World Cup squad after a scan on the defender's injured ankle. . . . more . . .
England coach elect McClaren arrives at FA HQ (May 04, 2006)
Steve McClaren, widely expected to be announced as the new England coach in succession to Sven-Goran Eriksson, arrived at the Football Association's central London headquarters at approximately 3.40pm local time (1440GMT). . . . more . . .
Reyes set up Champions League race climax (May 04, 2006)
Two goals from substitute Jose Antonio Reyes helped Arsenal moved to within a point of arch-north London rivals Tottenham after a 3-1 win away to Manchester City ensured the race for the fourth automatic Champions League qualifying place would go to the last day of the season. . . . more . . .
'Proud' McClaren new England manager (May 04, 2006)
Steve McClaren celebrated what he described as the proudest moment of his career after being named the new England manager, in succession to Sven-Goran Eriksson. . . . more . . .
Roeder's Newcastle dream suffers blow (May 04, 2006)
Newcastle United's bid to appoint Glenn Roeder as their permanent manager without the relevant coaching qualifications was rejected by the Premier League. . . . more . . .
McClaren was always my number one, says FA chief (May 04, 2006)
Football Association chief executive Brian Barwick insisted that Steve McClaren had always been his first choice to succeed Sven-Goran Eriksson as England manager. . . . more . . .
Andrade wants move to another Spanish team (May 04, 2006)
Deportivo La Coruna's Portuguese international defender Jorge Andrade said he would like a move to another club in the Spanish league with better chances to play at European level. . . . more . . .
Portugal's Costinha quits Dynamo Moscow (May 04, 2006)
Portugal's international midfielder Costinha, who has been dropped from Dynamo Moscow's first team for indiscipline, said he had unilaterally rescinded his contract with the Russian team. . . . more . . .
Hearts deprive Rangers of Champions League spot (May 03, 2006)
A Paul Hartley penalty was enough to secure a 1-0 win for Hearts against Aberdeen and deny Glasgow giants Rangers a place in next season's Champions League. . . . more . . .
Bayern one win away from 20th Bundesliga title (May 03, 2006)
Bayern Munich need just two points from the final two matches to clinch a 20th German championship after a 3-1 home win over VfB Stuttgart. . . . more . . .
Marseille back in the hunt for Champions League (May 03, 2006)
Marseille bounced back from their French Cup final defeat with a 2-1 win away to Auxerre which has relaunched the south coast side's bid for a place in the Champions League. . . . more . . .
Barcelona are Spanish champions after Valencia loss (May 03, 2006)
Barcelona won the Spanish title for the second successive year after their nearest rivals Valencia were defeated 2-1 at Real Mallorca. . . . more . . .
Barcelona show their championship class (May 03, 2006)
Barcelona celebrated their 18th Spanish league title by showing their class and beating Celta Vigo 1-0, with a goal from Samuel Eto'o and despite the result being irrelevant. . . . more . . .
Redknapp set to follow Manadric in committing to Pompey (May 03, 2006)
Portsmouth chairman Milan Mandaric has opened the door for manager Harry Redknapp to sign a new deal after himself committing to the South Coast club for at least another year. . . . more . . .
Sun Jihai agrees new deal at City (May 03, 2006)
China defender Sun Jihai is set to sign a two-year extension to his contract at English Premiership team Manchester City, according to the club's website. . . . more . . .
Czech midfielder Karel Poborsky sidelined with thigh injury (May 03, 2006)
Czech international midfielder Karel Poborsky will be unable to play for one or two weeks as a result of a thigh injury, Frantisek Cipro, his manager at Czech second division club Ceske Budejovice said. . . . more . . .
10,000 World Cup tickets on sale via internet (May 03, 2006)
Fans desperate to get their hands on tickets for next month's World Cup in Germany have been given a boost with the Organising Committee confirming that 10,000 tickets would go on sale via the internet within the next 24 hours. . . . more . . .
500 foreign police on World Cup duty in Germany (May 03, 2006)
Around 500 foreign police will come to Germany as part of the security operation to prevent hooligan violence at this summer's football World Cup finals, a top government official said. . . . more . . .
Costinha rips up Dynamo Moscow contract (May 03, 2006)
Portuguese international midfielder Costinha, who has been dropped from Dynamo Moscow's first team for indiscipline, said he had ripped up his contract with the Russian team. . . . more . . .
Hearts clinch second place in SPL (May 03, 2006)
Hearts clinched second place in the Scottish Premier League with a 1-0 win at home to Aberdeen night to qualify for the Champions League for the first time in their history. . . . more . . .
England rivals fight out battling draw (May 03, 2006)
Putative England national manager rivals Steve McClaren and Sam Allardyce saw their respective sides Middlesbrough and Bolton fight out a mediocre 1-1 Premiership draw. . . . more . . .
US leaders see improvement in 2006 World Cup roster (May 03, 2006)
US playmaker Landon Donovan and manager Bruce Arena are confident the American team for the World Cup is superior to the roster that reached the 2002 quarter-finals in South Korea. . . . more . . .
England looking at 'Plan B' after injuries to Rooney and Owen (May 03, 2006)
Number two Tord Grip has admitted that England are devising a 'Plan B' for the World Cup after injuries to top strikers Wayne Rooney and Michael Owen. . . . more . . .
Germany leapfrog England in World Cup odds after Rooney blow (May 03, 2006)
Hosts Germany have leapfrogged England into second favourites for next month's World Cup following the broken foot sustained by top English striker Wayne Rooney. . . . more . . .
Surgery plans set to rule Vassell out of World Cup (May 03, 2006)
Darius Vassell is to have surgery to correct a long-standing hernia problem next week in a move that will effectively rule him out of England's World Cup plans. . . . more . . .
Everton dismiss quick return for Cahill (May 03, 2006)
Australian midfielder Tim Cahill is not close to a return to training after sustaining a knee injury last month, according to his club Everton. . . . more . . .
Rooney needs 'miracle' to be fit for World Cup: Eriksson (May 03, 2006)
England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson said that striker Wayne Rooney had more than one break in his foot and would probably need a "miracle" to be fit for the World Cup. . . . more . . .
Di Stefano expresses doubts on Henry (May 03, 2006)
Former Real Madrid star and life president Alfredo di Stefano has expressed doubts about the wisdom of a possible bid for Arsenal and France striker Thierry Henry. . . . more . . .
Roeder sweating on special dispensation (May 03, 2006)
Glenn Roeder looks set to be offered the Newcastle manager's job on a full-time basis after the club applied to the English Premier League for special dispensation to appoint him to the post. . . . more . . .
Neville loses "celebration" appeal (May 03, 2006)
Manchester United captain Gary Neville has lost his appeal against a 5,000 pounds (9,000 dollars) fine for his over-zealous celebrations during a match against Liverpool in January. . . . more . . .
Inter gain upper hand in Italian Cup (May 03, 2006)
Holders Inter Milan gained the upper hand over Roma in the Italian Cup final, scoring a precious away goal in a 1-1 first leg draw at the Olympic stadium. . . . more . . .
Baup to quit St Etienne at end of season (May 03, 2006)
St Etienne coach Elie Baup announced that he was ending his second spell at the struggling French giants at the end of the season. . . . more . . .
FA denies Ferguson-Eriksson rift (May 02, 2006)
The Football Association has dismissed reports of a rift between Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson and England boss Sven-Goran Eriksson over Wayne Rooney's injury. . . . more . . .
Devastated Rooney clings on to World Cup hope (May 02, 2006)
Wayne Rooney believes he still has a chance of playing for England in the World Cup, despite the scepticism of Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson. . . . more . . .
Sutton set for Blues exit as chairman turns on players (May 02, 2006)
Birmingham owner David Sullivan has renewed his criticism of the club's leading players following their relegation from the English Premiership. . . . more . . .
Pardew facing Cup final injury crisis (May 02, 2006)
West Ham boss Alan Pardew has confirmed that Dean Ashton is a major doubt for next month's FA Cup final against Liverpool after the striker limped out of the London club's Premiership win over relegated West Brom. . . . more . . .
Czech star Koller back in fold ahead of World Cup (May 02, 2006)
Czech international forward Jan Koller stepped up his bid to be fit for next month's World Cup making his first appearance in seven months in Borussia Dortmund's 2-1 win at Hannover. . . . more . . .
Cole increases comeback pace (May 02, 2006)
England defender Ashley Cole will continue his fightback to full fitness for the World Cup by starting in one of Arsenal's last two Premiership games. . . . more . . .
King pens new deal until 2010 (May 02, 2006)
England centre-back Ledley King has signed a four-year contract extension that will keep him at Tottenham Hotspur until 2010. . . . more . . .
US names 23-man roster for FIFA World Cup (May 02, 2006)
US manager Bruce Arena announced his team's 23-man roster for next month's World Cup in Germany, eight days before players gather to start preparations for the global football showdown. . . . more . . .
Japan coach Zico names squad for Kirin Cup tournament (May 02, 2006)
Japan coach Zico says his players must show some "pride" during their Kirin Cup games against Bulgaria and Scotland in order to clinch their tickets to the World Cup in Germany. . . . more . . .
Costa Rica World Cup pre-squad reduced to 24 (May 02, 2006)
Costa Rica coach Alexandre Guimaraes reduced his World Cup pre-squad from 28 to 24 players and will have to omit one more by the May 15 deadline. . . . more . . .
PSV want Koeman (May 02, 2006)
PSV have made an approach to bring Ronald Koeman back to the club to spearhead their Champions League bid after the imminent departure of Guus Hiddink. . . . more . . .
Skeptical Silvestre says he deserves World Cup place (May 02, 2006)
Manchester United defender Mikael Silvestre admits there may be no place for him in France's World Cup squad - but says he deserves the chance to go to Germany. . . . more . . .
Boyd to the rescue for Gers European hopes (May 02, 2006)
Kris Boyd kept Rangers' hopes of clinching second place in the Scottish Premier League alive BY scoring both goals in a 2-1 win away to bogey side Hibs. . . . more . . .
Gunners take aim at Sunderland as Diaby crocked (May 02, 2006)
Thierry Henry and Arsene Wenger joined forces to slam Sunderland as Arsenal left the Stadium of Light battered and bruised after cruising to a 3-0 Premiership victory. . . . more . . .
Reid sends Blackburn into Europe (May 02, 2006)
Republic of Ireland international midfielder Steven Reid secured Blackburn Rovers a place in next season's UEFA Cup with a first half header that brought Chelsea's title celebrations to an abrupt end as they were at the wrong end of a 1-0 defeat. . . . more . . .
Bayern approach still doesn't excite van Buyten (May 02, 2006)
SV Hamburg's injured captain Daniel van Buyten has said he will only make a decision on his future, which could feature a move to Bayern Munich, at the end of the season. . . . more . . .
Hamburg keep title race alive (May 02, 2006)
SV Hamburg kept the German title race alive thanks to a 1-0 victory over struggling FC Cologne. . . . more . . .
Berlin artist unveils giant football picture for World Cup (May 02, 2006)
A Berlin artist a giant painting of memorable football scenes that will be displayed in a park in the capital during the football World Cup. . . . more . . .
McClaren set to tinker with Boro side for Bolton clash (May 02, 2006)
Middlesbrough boss Steve McClaren is set to ring the changes on Wednesday in a bid to keep his stars fresh for next week's UEFA Cup final against Sevilla in Eindhoven. . . . more . . .
I didn't intend to injure Rooney, says Chelsea's Ferreira (May 02, 2006)
Chelsea's Portuguese defender Paulo Ferreira has said he did not purposely set out to injure Manchester United's international striker Wayne Rooney during a weekend Premiership match. . . . more . . .
World Cup to set new high for stadia television coverage (May 02, 2006)
For the first time in the history of the World Cup all the stadia will be kitted out with giant hi-tech television screens to show live action at the finals in Germany. . . . more . . .
Rasiak spurred on by Saints move (May 02, 2006)
Champions League-chasing Tottenham Hotspur have sold Polish striker Grzegorz Rasiak to English Championship outfit Southampton for two million pounds (3.5 million dollars). . . . more . . .
Eriksson given June deadline for Rooney (May 01, 2006)
World football's ruling body FIFA have confirmed that England could replace injured star striker Wayne Rooney up to 24 hours before their opening World Cup game on June 10. . . . more . . .
Owen confident of beating metatarsal 'curse' dogging England (May 01, 2006)
Michael Owen has voiced confidence that the 'curse of the metatarsal' haunting England's World Cup hopes will not prevent him from getting on the plane to Germany. . . . more . . .
Diaby doubtful for Champions League final (May 01, 2006)
Arsenal's French midfielder Abou Diaby is a major doubt for the Champions League final against Barcelona after being stretchered off with a serious ankle injury near the end of the Gunners' 3-0 win over Sunderland. . . . more . . .
Arena set to announce US World Cup lineup (May 01, 2006)
Bruce Arena, the longest-tenured manager of any team in the World Cup, will announce the United States roster Tuesday for next month's global football showdown in Germany. . . . more . . .
Rangers duo a concern ahead of Hibs clash (May 01, 2006)
Julien Rodriguez and Alan Hutton are both nursing injuries ahead of Rangers' crucial Scottish Premier League game on Tuesday against Hibernian. . . . more . . .
Eriksson gambles World Cup dream on Rooney (May 01, 2006)
England national coach Sven-Goran Eriksson will take hobbling striker Wayne Rooney to the World Cup if the player has a chance of being fit for the latter part of the tournament. . . . more . . .
Rovers boosted by early holidays for Chelsea stars (May 01, 2006)
Blackburn's hopes of enjoying trips to Europe next season have been boosted by Jose Mourinho's decision to allow Chelsea's England stars to head off early for some pre-World Cup sun and sand. . . . more . . .
Gunner Henry loading and firing bullets (May 01, 2006)
Thierry Henry put on another virtuoso performance as Arsenal cantered to a 3-0 victory at Premiership whipping-boys Sunderland to keep the pressure on Tottenham in the battle for fourth place. . . . more . . .
Grip fears injury jinx as Rooney joins list (May 01, 2006)
Wayne Rooney's latest injury and possible absence from the World Cup squad has left England's assistant manager Tord Grip fearing there is a jinx on their World Cup preparations. . . . more . . .
Silent Juve let their football do the talking (May 01, 2006)
Juventus let their football do the talking with a resounding 3-0 win at Siena which moved them a step closer to back-to-back Serie A titles. . . . more . . .
Helpline created for prostitutes during World Cup (May 01, 2006)
An organisation fighting forced prostitution, Solwodi, has launched a 24-hour helpline for prostitutes in trouble during the World Cup 2006. . . . more . . .
Heinze set for United starting role as Germany beckons (May 01, 2006)
Gabriel Heinze is set to make his first start for Manchester United in seven months as the defender seeks to boost his chances of a place in Argentina's World Cup squad. . . . more . . .
McClaren edging closer to England job (May 01, 2006)
Middlesbrough boss Steve McClaren could be appointed the new England manager by the end of the week. . . . more . . .
Cole return boosts Arsenal and England (May 01, 2006)
England boss Sven-Goran Eriksson finally received some good news when left-back Ashley Cole made his first appearance in three months for Arsenal. . . . more . . .
Rooney facing World Cup KO as Ferguson hits out at Eriksson (May 01, 2006)
England's World Cup plans were in total disarray after Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson made it clear he would oppose plans to take an injured Wayne Rooney to Germany. . . . more . . .
Ruud shock as United blow chance to tie up second place (May 01, 2006)
Australian keeper Brad Jones saved a second-half Ruud van Nistelrooy penalty as Manchester United were held to a goalless draw by UEFA Cup finalists Middlesbrough at Old Trafford. . . . more . . .
Ferguson doubts Rooney's World Cup chances (May 01, 2006)
Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has said he doubts his star England striker Wayne Rooney will play in the World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Rooney injury throws spotlight on hi-tech boots (May 01, 2006)
If Wayne Rooney's latest injury has got England fans worried, the use of new, lightweight football boots by some of the world's top players could start alarm bells ringing. . . . more . . .
Ruud miss leaves United sweating on second place (May 01, 2006)
Manchester United's battle with Liverpool for second place in the Premiership will go to the wire after United were held to a goalless draw by Middlesbrough at Old Trafford. . . . more . . .
