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Monday, August 29, 2011

SPL: Thriller Tayside, Motherwell go top

Gavin Gunning marked a late equaliser Dundee United snatched a 3-3 draw in a dramatic Tayside derby with St Johnstone.

Gavin Gunning
PA photosGavin Gunning grabbed a late equaliser to Dundee United

In a remarkable 90 minutes that see-sawed a way and then autre it, the visitors have a first minute lead through Barry Douglas and has continued to dominate the opening of exchanges, but controversial sentence of Francisco Sandaza introduced Saints in the game in the 34th minute and Liam Craig reader and then a second of former United Sandaza striker gave the secondary goals is home to three in 12 minutes and an advantage of two goals at the break.

Comfortable as were times but United then watched Perth men ensured a moving climax with two goals in four minutes to save a point. Substitute Gary Mackay-Steven gives hope of mandarins in the 79th minute and defender Gunning filled sensational turning around from a header eight minutes from the end.

Michael Higdon reported a double Motherwell returned to the top of the table with an impressive 4-2 win ending Dunfermlineunbeaten start to the season.

Visitors completely capitulated Dunfermline in a first half in which Higdon and Jamie Murphy, via a deviation, all net two. Chris Humphrey added a third before the Pars finally a game of it in the last quarter replacing David Graham shot deflected in off teammate Joe Cardle.

Cardle gave the hosts the unlikely prospect of recovery of a point as it reported a goal deflected on the break in the final stage, but Higdon grabbed his second in a minute.

Objective end of Graeme Shinnie against Kilmarnock lifted Inverness in the bottom of the table as they won 2-1.

Low back-up in the 89th minute strike received points in the Tulloch Caledonian Stadium, Inverness giving their first victory of the campaign. The hosts took the lead in the 26th minute when a header for powered home a close - range Gregory Tade before Dean Shiels leveled with a curling 25 yard shot nine minutes later.

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The League: Soldier shines to sink Santander

Roberto Soldado struck twice in the last minutes of three at the Mestalla to complement his hat and give a dramatic 4-3 victory at Racing Santander to Valencia in their first match in Primera Division.

Roberto Soldado got off to a flier with a match-winning hat-trick for Valencia
PA photosRoberto Soldado dropped a flier with a match won a hat-trick for Valencia

Soldado had put Los Che advance in the first minute, but il said in his own net six minutes more later things the level and Lautaro Acosta added a second goal for the races in the 14th minute.

Adrian Gonzalez was 3-1 for the visitors 10 minutes after the break, but Adil Rami reduced the deficit almost immediately and end brace of Soldado settled the topsy-turvy encounter for the hosts.

Earlier Saturday, Real Sociedad won the first game of the new season 2-1 with an impressive performance at Sporting Gijon.

Imanol Agirretxe marked with finishes two-headed neat on each side of the break to give the side Basque, a 2-0 lead, but Sporting responded almost immediately by the sentence of Miguel De Las Cuevas.

Sociedad had Carlos Martinez then expelled to concede the spot-kick and has come under strong pressure in the last quarter, but held the three points.

At the kick-off end, a header 88th minute Ruben Castro won promoted Real Betis Seville 1-0 victory at first-order boys new companions Granada replacing that Jonathan Pereira had capitalised on a mistake by Defender Manuel Lucena.

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Lugano set to swap Fenerbahce for MTP

Fenerbahce have revealed that the captain of the Uruguay Diego Lugano left the club to join the Ligue 1 side MTP.

Diego Lugano
GettyImagesDiego Lugano has completed his five year-association with Turkish giants Fenerbahce

Lugano, 30, was the Turkish outfit for five years, but moves on with the club involved in a scandal of match fixing, who saw their retired from the League this season, Champions this week.

MTP are yet to confirm the signing, but a statement on the official website of Fenerbahce, said: "We thank for his efforts with the club to this day and I wish him good luck."

The Declaration was then rent the centre-back for his "energy without end on the field" and his "brave heart".

Lugano, who also played for the South American giants Nacional Sao Paulo, has led his country to third place in last year's World Cup and a record 15 titile of the Copa America in July then.

MTP - backed by wealthy landowners of the Qatar Investment Authority - spent more than 80 million € this summer on the players of the ilk of Javier Pastore, Jeremy Menez and Kevin Gameiro to the French capital.

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Sunday, August 28, 2011

Ligue 1: Lyon Montpellier's 100% record end

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Lyon fin record de 100 % de Montpellieren Ligue 1 avec une victoire 2-1 , qui eux s'installe dans un point de leurs adversaires.

Lyon Jeremy Pied and Maxime Gonalons
Photos de PAJeremy Pied (r) célèbre son deuxième but crucial de notation de Lyon avec son coéquipier Maxime Gonalonss

Mi-temps substitut Miralem Pjanic mis les hôtes avance trois minutes après son introduction et Jeremy Pied, un autre remplacement, a 2-0 après 78 minutes, peu de temps après Montpellier avait été réduit à 10 hommes après le rejet de Younes Belhanda.

Henri Bedimo de moitié le déficit tardif sur mais Montpellier n'a pas pu trouver l'égalisation.

Auxerre a affirmé leur première victoire de la saison, 4-1, avec un affichage élégant contre nouvellement promu Ajaccio. Le côté maison dominée par des procédures et le tableau de bord reflète celle avec Alain Traore, marquant deux fois et Kamel Chafni et Anthony Le Tallec également sur la cible.

Araujo Ilan rapporta une consolation fin, mais il n'était pas assez pour Ajaccio, qui n'ont pas encore gagner depuis leur retour dans l'élite.

Valenciennes' mauvais début de saison a continué comme deux buts dans les dernières minutes 10 vu Bordeaux viennent de l'arrière pour gagner arraché un 2-1 - leur première victoire de la campagne.

VA regardé ensemble pour ramasser leur première victoire lorsque Mathieu Dossevi mis leur avance dans la première moitié au Stade du Hainaut mais les choses de deux suppléants tournés autour pour Les Girondins, Abdou Traore égalisation neuf minutes de temps et puis Anthony Modeste maison sondage dans le temps.

Nice attaquant Xavier Pentecôte avait un objectif de la seconde période controversé prononcé hors contre Brest comme attente des lutteurs du Sud pour une victoire continue suite à dessiner le 0-0.

Un but de dernière minute de Yann Jouffre a gagné à Lorient leur deuxième victoire de la saison - 2-1 - au détriment de Nancy. Djamal Bakar a donné aux visiteurs un premier semestre plomb mais Lorient empilés sur la pression dans les 15 dernières minutes et ont été récompensés par l'égalisation de Arnold Mvuemba avant Jouffre arraché les points, via une légère flexion au large de son coéquipier Kevin Monnet-Pacquet.

Substitut Brice Jovial inscrit l'unique but que Dijon a remporté une bataille de deux côtés nouvellement promu à Evian.

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Chelsea sign Davila of the Chivas

Chelsea have announced the signing of the Mexico sub - 20 international Ulises Davila of Chivas of Guadalajara.

Ulises Davila Mexico
GettyImagesUlises Davila followed former Chivas teammate Javier Hernandez in Premier League

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The Blues have already recruited young Oriol Romeu, Romelu Lukaku and Thibaut Courtois this summer and following with the capture of 20 years offensive Davila.

The diminutive Mexican signed a five year contract with the Stamford Bridge club, with the Blues technical director Michael Emenalo pleased to confirm the capture.

"Ulises has been a player identified very many clubs and has made great progress in tournaments, in that we saw him play the last," Emenalo said official website of Chelsea. "We are delighted to be able to get this done transaction."

"Chivas is a club of superb with a solid reputation in the development of player and football in the world, and we are confident Ulises will be able to continue its rapid development to become a player in first team Chelsea.". "

Boss of Chelsea Andre Villas-Boas hope Davila can have a similar impact to the last player to arrive in the Championship of Chivas Guadalajara - attacking Manchester United Javier Hernandez.

Catch action of each Championship game of Barclays on your mobile for free on the app of ESPN goals improved (United Kingdom only).

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Bundesliga: Gomez raises the Bayern to victory

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Bayern Munich croise une victoire 3-0 à l'aise sur Kaiserslautern pour déplacer le haut de la Bundesliga avant de la pause internationale.

Mario Gomez
GettyImagesMario Gomez célèbre après avoir ouvert le score pour le Bayern Munich

Mario Gomez en sacs un hat-trick dans une rencontre unilatérale à le Betzenberg comme le Bayern démontre combien ils ont changé depuis leur dernière visite ici un an jour pour jour, quand ils étaient battus 2-0.

L'Allemagne international, qui a marqué l'unique but du Bayern dans la victoire 1-0 sur Zurich en milieu de semaine, a ouvert le score à la peine de spot à la 37e minute avant d'ajouter un second au début de la seconde moitié. Il finit les Red Devils à la 69e minute de prendre le Bayern en haut de la table pour la première fois depuis mai 2010.

Bayer Leverkusen et Le Borussia Dortmund ont terminant le jeu avec 10 hommes qu'ils partageaient le butin dans un vif match nul à la BayArena. Michal Kadlec de Leverkusen fut le premier à voir rouge à la 64e minute et il a été suivi dans le vestiaire par Mario Gotze 13 minutes plus tard, mais aucun camp score dans un vivement-combattu pouvait rencontrer.

Cologne a marqué deux fois dans les finales de six minutes à tourner un thriller de sept buts en leur faveur et à réclamer leur première victoire de la saison comme ils ont gagné 4-3 à Hambourg.

Mladen Petric mis Hambourg à venir d'une pénalité après 11 minutes mais Cologne a pris les devants grâce à Adil Chihi (21) et Milivoje Novakovic (49). Le jeu a continué de swing de ci de là comme Hambourg restauré leur avantage avec deux buts dans la victoire de trois minutes de Slobodan Rajkovic (59) et fils Heung-min (62), mais Christian Clemens (84) et Kevin McKenna (88) garantis de Cologne.

Freiburg recueilli leur première victoire de la saison de Bundesliga jeune comme ils ont battu Wolfsburg 3-0.

Papiss Demba Cissé a échoué au score en peut-être son dernier match pour le club, mais Oliver Barth ont tiré dans la première de Freiburg après 30 minutes et il était 2-0 quand Erik Jendrisek nettes 10 minutes plus tard. Cedrick Makiadi poussé l'avantage à 3-0 après 59 minutes.

Objectif de fin de Markus Rosenberg a donné Au Werder de Brême une victoire 2-1 à Hoffenheim pour continuer leur forte début de saison.

Roberto Firmino donna à Hoffenheim le plomb après que 37 minutes Marko Arnautovic égalisation d'une minute plus tard et Rosenberg a marqué le gagnant à la 83e minute.

Nuremberg a vu au large de FC Augsburg 1-0 , gracieuseté d'à un but de Alexander Esswein à la 76e minute.

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The Netherlands Championship: Young double sends high Twente

Luuk de Jong scored twice on his 21st birthday to lead FC Twente back at the top of the Eredivisie as last season's finalist beat VVV Venlo 4-1 to leapfrog Ajax.

After seeing Ajax move to the top with a 4-1 victory: Arnhem Friday, Twente speed matched their rivals to maintain their record of 100% as objectives of Bryan Ruiz and Marc Janko completed strikes De Jong.

Ahmed Musa claimed an individual goal late to restore parity to 1-1, but it lasted only two minutes before De Jong notches, leaving VVV without a victory this season and Twente with boost after their disappointment in the midweek Champions League.

Heracles Almelo saw their invincibility start ended with a 2-1 defeat to NEC Nijmegen. Peter Bosz side came into this fixture with a victory and two draws to their name, but found themselves two goals up in eight minutes at De Goffert with Lasse Schone and Nick van der Velden hit the mark.

Heracles threatened a return when Glynor Plet reduced arrears at the end of the first half, but was also good that she received for the visitors.

Slow startup of the NAC Bredafor the new season of the Netherlands Championship continued as they lost 2-1 at RKC Waalwijk. Evander Sno and Adil Auassar put the hosts in control with Anthony Lurling grabbing a late consolation for NAC. D2 champions last season have taken seven points from their first four fixtures.

FC Utrecht came from a goal towards the low to claim a 3-1 victory on Roda JC. Mads Junker put the visitors ahead after 38 minutes but Thomas Oar bladed six minutes later, before the second period Rodney Sneijder strikes and Jacob Mulenga sealed the points for the hosts.

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Field: Top of page of Brighton as run Saints completed

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Southampton perdu leur invincibilité début de la saison de championnat comme ils sont tombés à une défaite 3-2 contre Leicester au roi Power Stadium.

Côté de Nigel Adkins avait commencé la vie dans le deuxième niveau du football anglais de façon impressionnante, mais se sont retrouvés en bas 2-0 à l'intérieur de 22 minutes. Darius Vassell et Richie Wellens aidé à mettre le sourire retour sur le gestionnaire d'under-pressure Sven-Goran Eriksson, avec les renards après avoir passé trois matches sans victoire depuis le jour de l'ouverture.

Un en-tête de Dan Harding remettre des Saints dans le jeu après 28 minutes avant un but de l'attaquant Rickie Lambert restauré coussin de deux buts de Leicester sur le coup de la mi-temps. Cependant, Southampton sort fortement après que le redémarrage et David Connolly réduit le déficit à la 53e minute.

Défaite des saints a vu ses collègue côté promue Brighton aller retour en haut de la table après ils ont battu Peterborough 2-0. Le Posh, qui eux-mêmes étaient également en Ligue 1 la saison dernière, alla derrière la 10e minute à un effort de Craig Noone. Récente signature Ryan Harley s'installe la cravate à la 64e minute beaucoup au grand plaisir de la majorité des supporters du stade Amex.

Ses collègues reproche Derby County est tombée à une défaite à domicile 2-1 à Burnley, avec Charlie Austin au filet de chaque côté du but de Theo Robinson.

Marvin Emnes poursuit son impressionnante début de saison par la remise de Middlesbrough le plomb contre Coventry, bien que Lukas Jutkiewicz a marqué une égalisation tardive pour les visiteurs que le jeu termine à 1-1.

Blackpool également jeté à trois points à Crystal Palace, avec Glenn Murray égalisation à la 77e minute après l'ouvreur de Alex Baptiste premier semestre dans une autre 1-1 nul.

Hull a obtenu une victoire 1-0 à domicile contre la lecture grâce à une superbe frappe de Robbie Brady, tandis que Millwall et Barnsley jouent un match nul.

Bristol City ailier Albert Adomah a vu son effort au premier semestre annihilé dans South Yorkshire comme James Hayter gagné Doncaster un 1-1 dessiner et leur premier point de la saison.

Ipswich a surmonté 10-homme Leeds 2-1 à Portman Road grâce à des buts de fin de Jason Scotland et Keith Andrews. Ross McCormack a brisé l'impasse pour les visiteurs, mais congédiement de White Aidy modifie l'équilibre du jeu.

Enfin, dans un autre nul 1-1, substitut Nwankwo Kanu a sauvé un point pour Portsmouth après que Andrew Taylor avait donné à Cardiff le plomb à Fratton Park.

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Carling Cup: Leeds Man Utd in draw field

Old rivals Leeds United in the third round of the Carling Cup will face Manchester United.

Jermaine Beckford
GettyImagesJermaine Beckford scored as Leeds United beat Manchester United in the FA Cup in 2009-2010.

On Saturday, Premier Sir Alex Ferguson champions League draw were pitted side of Grayson Championship againstSimon.

Ferguson will seek to avenge the defeat of the FA Cup 1-0 at the same base side there at Old Trafford in the Leeds were in League One.

Brighton, following their fine start to life in the Championship, have drawn athome in Liverpool in the stage of Amex.

Incumbent Birmingham, enter the competition at this stage because the theirinvolvement in the Europa League, begin the defence of the trophy that they wonagainst Arsenal with a trip to meet big - spending of the Etihad Stadium FA Cityat in Manchester Cup winners.

During this time, Chelsea, will face his rivals of West London Fulham.

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Blues await Drogba

Andre Villas-Boas confirmed That Didier Drogba Chelsea boss was taken to hospital after suffering a sickening injury victory 3-1 against the Blues Norwich Saturday.

Dider Drogba
PA photosDidier Drogba falls unconsicous after a collision with John Ruddy

Palmer: praise not points for Norwich

Drogba, 31, has been eliminated during a collision with Canaries goalkeeper John Ruddy and was taken on a stretcher with what appeared to be a breathing assistance after the treatment of seven minutes at Stamford Bridge.

Côte d'Ivoire was transported to the Hospital of the game but was released later with Chelsea confirming their official website that the club of the medical staff would need to "continue to monitor" Côte d'Ivoire in the coming days.

Chelsea and Norwich were locked at 1-1 when Drogba left field but after Ruddy was later expelled for a tackle on Requena, side Villas-Boas was going to win the game.

"We are waiting just for complete reviews on his concussion and hope that nothing is wrong," Villas-Boas said. ".It shows signs of recovery for us good to be a little more quiet. »

Villas-Boas had no problem with challenge of Ruddy, but the incident, said: "it seemed quite unpleasant." He lost consciousness on the ground completely.

"I must be very, very grateful, not only to my players, but for the Norwich players and my medical staff to react quickly to a potentially dangerous situation". ".

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Saturday, August 27, 2011

Deal of Man new town Richards pens

Micah Richards has agreed a new four year contract with Manchester City.

Micah Richards
GettyImagesMicah Richards has committed his future to Manchester City

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Richards, 23, has become a key from Roberto Mancini and his agent revealed today he has hired his future in the long term for the club.

Levack, "Micah is pleased to have signed this new order and ensure its future," said skysports.com. "Manchester City is the place that he wants to be as it is his home."

"It's really a fantastic success that Micah is the only player left for Manchester City, which has gone through the Academy and is a regular first team."

"Manchester City is an exciting and ambitious club to and a club where Micah knows that it can reach all its ambitions in the game.". Roberto Mancini has been wonderful with him, have fans and all the members of the club, and Micah was delighted that too much to commit his future to them. »

Catch action of each Championship game of Barclays on your mobile for free on the app of ESPN goals improved (United Kingdom only).

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Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Father of Obi Mikel left after removal

The father removed of John Obi Mikel to Chelsea was released after his kidnappers were located by the police in Nigeria.

John Obi Mikel: Was advised to stay in England as elder brother Emeka tries his best to handle the affair
GettyImagesJohn Obi Mikel: Advised to stay in England, while police examined the question of the capture of his father

Michael Obi had been abducted on August 12 at his home in his work in the Centre of the Nigerian city of Jos, but it was found on Monday in the North of Kano city. Police arrested suspects in the abduction.

Agents of his son, SEM, issued a statement on Twitter. "SEM are pleased to confirm that earlier today more Michael Obi called his family to inform them that he had been released by his captors," it read.

"SEM waited until now to disclose this information to ensure that Michael was safe." John Obi Mikel would like to thank everyone in Nigeria, family & friends, Chelsea FC fans & its agents for their total support during this terrible period. A complete statement of the situation will be published by SEM tomorrow morning. »

OBI Senior told the BBC that he had been kidnapped at Jos transferred to Kano. "I am very stressed," said.

BBC reporter Yusuf Ibrahim Yakasai stated that Michael Obi face showed signs of beatings endured during his ordeal.

Mikel has continued to play for Chelsea in the disappearance of his father, appearing in the first League of Barclays of Blues opener at Stoke before theirhome 2-1 victory for West Brom on Saturday.

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Happy Forlan in Atletico

Striker of Atletico Madrid Diego Forlan insists he is happy at the Vicente Calderon and claimed reports of an offer from Inter Milan are wide brand.

Diego Forlan celebrates his early opener
PA Photos / PeterByrneDiego Forlan has been prolific for the Rojiblancos since his arrival in Villarreal in 2007

Forlan, 32, has been linked strongly before moving to San Siro recently and was quoted by the Gazzetta dello Sport last week by saying that he had an offer, even if these comments were quickly dismissed as manufacturing by his agent.

The international Uruguay, which won the Golden Ball for best player of the World Cup last year in South Africa, left for two years on his contract with the Atletico and says that he intends to honor his current contract.

"Today, I have a contract with the Atletico and I am happy to be at the club," Forlan said AS. "I have a two year contract and I do not what will happen."My plan is here and try to perform the contract, but it's hard to say. »

Asked if he had received an offer from Inter, he replied "none" and says "there is nothing concrete" on the table.

However, it has done little to diffuse the speculation linking to Inter, talk about the appeal of a move to champions of Europe 2010.

"Nobody will be doubt that Inter are one of the biggest clubs in Europe and the world, but I have a two year contract and I can't imagine anything". ".

But Forlan, who was the top scorer of the Division of the Primera in 2008-2009 and scored two goals in the final against Fulham Atletico won the Europa League the following season, retains the same condition than ever for the club.

"Mr. person has told me directly that I am for sale," he said. "I have no grudge against a person. If I go, I will continue with the same enthusiasm as always. And if I go, I will be happy, that I did all that was possible with this team.

"All the reports are just rumors." I did not have anything that either the club say, "you will". I have the same feeling I had since my arrival. I do what I love to make goals and to take the club as high as possible. »

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Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Gasperini: We will face after the departure of the Eto'o

Inter Milan coach Gian Piero Gasperini is confident the early departure of Samuel Eto'o at the Russian club Anji Makhachkala weakens not on his side.

Samuel Eto'o
GettyImagesSamuel Eto'o is headed for the Russia

ETO ' O is set to complete his permanent transfer of Anzhiin the next few days. ETO ' O will become paid player in the world, areported earn EUR 30 million (26.2 million to £) each season.

"Anji frameworks should arrive in Milan this evening or tomorrow morning," agent of saidEto'o Claudio Vigorelli to the Gazzetta dello Sport. ".They will meet withInter. They need to reach an agreement with Inter as they have already reached adeal with us (the player).

"Eto ' O is in Milan awaiting developments." The agreement is to be completed and we will see in the next few hours. I anticipate any hurdles. »

Gasperini recognized the quality of Eto'o but backed his team to thrive even fee were to seal passage to the Russia.

He said the official website of the club: "we know how a good theplayer but I think it's a team that can also be configured differently, of course, it is the strength of your attack that determines how the goodyour team is."

"There are other valuable players in the team and we'll start building againwith this group of champions." We will try to find the players who are out of atthe time and we may be able to strengthen a little too much.

Certainly when we a little short in some areas, includingmidfield, the games given how much we will have to play.

"But the club knows very well what to do." Still ten days left ago transfer before the window closes. »

ETO ' O scored 37 goals season last for Inter and was a key member of the theNerazzurri team that won the Serie A, the Champions League and Coppa Italia treblein 2009-10 campaign.

The 30-year-old is under contract with Inter until in June 2014 and sign expected three-year deal with Anji.

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Milan in talks on Aquilani

Owner of AC Milan Silvio Berlusconi confirmed that the Italian club is in talks with Liverpool midfielder Alberto aquilanisigned.

Alberto Aquilani is set to seal a move away from Anfield
Photos of PAAlberto Aquilani is set to seal away from Anfield

Aquilani near Milan move

Aquilani, 27, spent last season on loan at the Juventus of Turin, where he benefited from a recovery after a torrid year with Liverpool, but the clubs were unable to agree a fee and he spent pre-season back on Merseyside.

Well that Manager Kenny dalglish has said repeatedly that it would be pleased to include of Aquilani in his team for the upcoming season, Liverpool have concluded negotiations with Juve, Fiorentina and Milan now over its sale.

Owner of Milan Berlusconi said: "we are negotiating for Aquilani.I like him much - it is an interesting player. I spoke on this subject with Galliani [Vice-President Adriano] and [Massimiliano] Allegri. We will see what happens. »

Officer of the player, Franco Zavaglia, said Ilsussidiario.net: "the parties are working on this case, and between Wednesday and Thursday, everything will be decided."

Aquilani has not appeared in a competitive game for Liverpool under Dalglish.

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MTP: Berbatov not to sell

Big-spending Paris Saint Germain were said by Manchester United that dimitar berbatov is not for sale after making an investigation on the Bulgarian attacker.

Sir Alex Ferguson, Dimitar Berbatov
Photos of PADimitar Berbatov remains determined to prove his worth by Sir Alex Ferguson

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New owners of the MTP, Qatar Investment Authority, éclaboussé a club record 42 million euros for the Palermo Javier pastore playmaker earlier this month and are looking to add other signatures marquee as they rebuild the team.

Future of Berbatov at Old Trafford was the subject of speculation, as it seems to have slipped behind Javier hernandez and Danny welbeck as the partner privileged of Wayne rooney, but Manager Sir Alex ferguson has pushed an approach for the 30 years of age.

PSG sporting Director Leonardo said France Football: "I had Ferguson on the phone, but he told me that he was counting on Berbatov and that it was not for sale."

It had been suggested that United States would be prepared to leave Berbatov to go forward because it is the only player at Old Trafford with less than a year left on his current contract, other than the 37 years Ryan giggs.

However, the telegraph that the United States could trigger an option to contract for a year to prevent 30.75 million club of £ record signing leaving on a free transfer next summer.

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Kyrgiakos leaves Liverpool

The transfer company Liverpool summer continues with the new VfL Wolfsburg confirmed the signing of Liverpool sotirios kyrgiakos on a two year contract.

Sotiris Kyrgiakos
GettyImagesSotiris Kyrgiakos: on his way to Anfield after two years of Merseyside

The Greek international, signed in the summer 2009 by Rafael Benitez into something stop-gap for 1.5 million signing of £, eventually making 49 appearances for the Reds.

He left the scene Anfield despite having signed a new contract earlier this year, but which has come to a clause in his previous contract and should replace linked to Simon kjaer Roma in the defence of Wolfsburg.

Kyrgiakos departure leaves Kenny Dalglish short coverage in central defence if Martin Kelly can jump from the rear. Liverpool have been linked by beating Gary cahill, Ryan shawcross and Scott Dann during this transfer window.

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Assou-Ekotto: Tottenham target of APUs

Left rear Tottenham benoit assou-ekotto said that Spurs attempt to pile the pressure on Manchester United goalkeeper David De gea at Old Trafford, Monday night.

Assou-Ekotto Berbatov
GettyImagesAssou-Ekotto battles Dimitar Berbatov

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Gea finds itself under the spotlight, after a start hesitating to life as a replacement of Edwin van der Sar. The goalkeeper of £ 17.8 million committed a fault of the edin dzekogoal in the shock of the Community Shield with Manchester City at Wembley, and then allowed Shane Longshot to squirming him during Premier League victory at West Brom.

Fortunately for the Spanish, United have him out of trouble twice, but Monday of Gea must play a game of competition from his house for the first time fans.

Spurs are yet to play a Premier League game after their first game against Everton was cancelled, but they played some outstanding football in the middle of week 5-0 hearts Basinger. Assou-Ekotto confirmed his teammates are confident, and they will do their best to expose the fragility of Gea.

Left-back, "We will try to take advantage of these problems, that he had," said Sun. "When you come to England you have to learn quickly how to play us here."

"It is never easy in the first six months."

Monday game also saw the first game at home Ashley young, which shot to the winner of own goals of United against West Brom, but Assou-Ekotto is not too impressed with the winger. The Cameroon wishes to Spurs to go out and play the game as a normal game.

"We used to play against [youth] when he was at Aston Villa and we did agree then against him," said Assou-Ekotto. "It will be even against Manchester United - he is not better merely because he changed clubs."

"Young and Nani are two good players, but they are still only human." I really don't care who I play against Manchester United. »

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Wolves warn clubs off the coast of Doyle

Wolves boss mick mccarthy has clearly will be firmly turn down bid to kevin doyle, suggesting it would be "rip at the heart of"of the club to lose a player also at this stage of the season."

Kevin Doyle Wolves
GettyImagesKevin Doyle was linked with groups such as Arsenal and Juventus in the summer

On The Move: transfer blog

Doyle, who scored in the victory at home 2-0 Sunday Fulham beginning of 100% of the Wanderers who maintained for the new Premier League campaign - has been linked to away from Molineux as the transfer window draws to a close.

But in regards to McCarthy, trading should have already stopped, and he has absolutely no intention of entertaining offers for the striker from the Republic of Ireland.

"I think that the end of the transfer window must coincide with the start of the season," McCarthy says. ".Well, we have started, but can you imagine what would do if someone takes one of my best players away - not only for me, but all other players at the club? It would be just rip heart out of it.

"Someone like (signing of the summer) Roger johnson came here with the conviction that we keep all our players - Jamie O'Hara is the same.". I do not think that it will happen, but I could be telling them to get lost. »

The Juventus, Arsenal and Liverpool are reported to focus on Doyle, who insists that speculation will not affect his game.

Speaking to the Express and Star after the Sunday game, Doyle said: "he gave me at all - it's funny. It was the best bound to these two teams, I guess. I'll just things. The Manager and the guys have a laugh at me. »

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Monday, August 22, 2011

Serie A players reaffirm the threat of strike

Association of Italian players (AIC) have warned that they follow their Spanish counterparts by hitting at least that a new collective contract is signed before the start of the season in Serie A this weekend.

Roma Daniele De Rossi and Marco Borriello
GettyImagesThe start of the Serie A season may suffer the same fate as its equivalent in Spain

Spanish strike continue
La Liga fixtures postponed by radiation

Last week, the weekend opening of the lighting of the Liga was suspended after negotiations between players and clubs concerning wage guarantees it is collapsed.

And Serie A could be moving in the same direction, after representatives of all 20 clubs in Serie met Monday to reaffirm their request for the League to sign a new contract.

"We reiterate our position," Chairman of the association of players Damiano Tommasi said. "If the contract is signed, we will play the Saturday or Sunday. Otherwise, we will remain at home. It is time that on Wednesday, the League will meet. »

The AIC has stated that the League has still not signed an agreement with the players of the year last summer, intense negotiations in which strikes were twice avoided narrowly. An old collective agreement expired at the end of the 2009-10 and negotiations for its renewal continues throughout last season.

The AIC has been particularly unhappy with clubs tried to force the players to move in the last year of their contracts.

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Fabregas partitions for Barca in romp Napoli

CESC Fabregas scored his first goal since his return to Barcelona in friendly victory of his team 5-0 to Napoli.

Cesc Fabregas celebrates his first goal in a Barcelona shirt - slight return
GettyImagesCESC Fabregas celebrates his first goal in a Barcelona shirt - slight return

The former captain of Arsenal, who completed his move to his childhood sidelast week, was appointed to a strong start to the annual game of Gamper Trophyexhibition XI.

And complete early after the onset of substitute for the last week in Spanish Super Cup, midfielder field course himself to the crowd byopening Nou Camp and the score in the 25th minute.

In field colleague Seydou Keita was 2-0 before the replacedFabregas of Lionel Messi and he contributed to a hat-trick of 15 minutes.

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Saturday, August 20, 2011

Prem Lge: Battle of rear Chelsea, Arsenal suffer

Chelsea is a goal for West bromdefeated2-1 at home, as they have kept the pressure at the top of the Premier League table.

Ben Foster
GettyImagesBen Foster look on powerless as Nicola Anelka creeps

Premier League Gallery Photo Gallery
Lomas: frugal is an aberration
Jolly: mounted QPK challenge

The Blues have been against it from the beginning, as Shane Long stole the ball from Alex on the median line and passed to beat goalkeeper stand-in Hilario in the fourth minute. Chelsea has offered little in attack and Salomon Kalou were the Manager Andre Villas-Boas anger as he was taken off the coast of the 34th minute.

After the break, the Blues are a different team and does not have to wait long as Nicolas Anelka took advantage of some sloppy defending hammering a shot deflected past Ben Foster. With approximately ten minutes to do so, substitute Florent Malouda then stolen as dos net the winner after a good cross from Jose Bosingwa.

Arrival of Peter Odemwingie sparked plastic bags to the action and the Nigerian was guilty of a terrible Miss as a long cross him six-yards out, but his volley found the hands of the Hilario and the Blues hung on victory.

A week of test for Arsène Wenger ends on a sour note as Liverpool have been exhausted winners 2-0 against Arsenal at the Emirates.

Depleted gunners, who lost Cesc Fabregas at Barcelona Monday, Emmanuel Frimpong had sent offshore to debut first full League.

Wenger was born a surprise prior to launch, appointing Samir Nasri in the starting XI despite its apparently imminent move to Manchester City, while Carl Jenkinson and Emmanuel Frimpong also came in. Luis Suarez was a failure to surprise Liverpool, with Kenny Dalglish opting to play Stewart Downing, right next to Andy Carroll.

Already stretched team of Arsenal was still exhausted after only 14 minutes when centre back Laurent Koscielny limped off to hang back, bringing Ignasi Miquel in the melee. And six minutes later, with Arsenal still annoyed by the disturbance, came the best chance of the half, as Andy Carroll increased the pole to respond to the Downing cross - only to see Wojciech Szczesny claw his effort by far.

Well that Liverpool dominated possession for most of the opening period, Arsenal finished strongly that the interval was preparing and Frimpong forced Pepe Reina a low save with a stinging drive from 30 metres before Nasri has led to the defence and shot just wide.

After a sterile opening in the second half, Andrei Arshavin outmuscled Enrique in the area on 68 minutes before squaring the ball to Robin van Persie, who, six yards, scuffed a straight line on the knees of the Reina.

The momentum swung way to Liverpool when Frimpong was sent off the coast of six minutes later, showed young a second yellow after overthrew Lucas with a clumsy challenge. And the men of Dalglish took full advantage of their numerical superiority on 78 minutes when Miquel a clearance rebounded off the coast of Ramsey chest before looping on Szczesny and at the back of the net.

Liverpool doubled their lead in time, Raul Meireles is clearly the goal before squaring the ball to Suarez, who could not close Miss.

The optimism created by busy summer Sunderland of transfers has been verified that they have lost 1-0 to Newcastle in the derby to wear-Tyne to the stadium of light.

After Joey Barton saw its efforts related to the purposes apparently blocked by the hand of Seb Larsson in the first half, Ryan Taylor assured justice was made by putting the visitors after 63 minutes, his arrow-franc fly directly in the upper corner of the net. Steve Bruce miserable afternoon ended when back Phil Bardsley was shown a second yellow for a dangerous tackle on Fabricio Coloccini in the seconds dying.

Entrusted attracted such as new Aston Villa boss Alex McLeish actions himself to a crowd of sceptical by masterminding home a 3-1 victory against blackburn rovers.

50Th Premier League goal of Gabby Agbonlahor put Villa come after 10 minutes, cutting pacey striker go right, shrug Michel Salgado and sending a strike of curling beyond Paul Robinson. Fifteen minutes later Rovers were still in the quagmire as Emile Heskey grabbed his first goal in 13 matches - and his 11th career strike against Blackburn - by drilling in a low shot from the edge of the box.

While it is under pressure for almost the entire first half, Rovers found themselves in the game a few minutes after the break, Morten Gamst Pedersen timing his run shrewdly of nod in the centre of Hoilett Junior. But the dreams of Steve Kean of an unlikely point were smashed shortly after, as Darren Bent opened his account for the season to pounce on shooting deflected Stilian Petrov and breaking on Robinson - a strike which gave a hand welcome former head of Birmingham McLeish.

QPK bounced from their opening day deaf home in Bolton by claiming a win 1-0 at home in slow-starters well-known Everton.

With the first chance that they have owned, Tommy Smith pushed the visitors in the lead with an inventive strike after 31 minutes, having taken advantage of an error in the target of the Arsenal Phil Jagielka, which the ball to Akos Buzsaky.

Everton, playing for the first time this season after a game last week to Tottenham, pressed without a point in the second half, which means Smith gave QPK, the first three points on offer recovery following of Tony Fernandes.

wigan athletic boss Roberto Martinez picked a game void 0-0 at the home of his former club, Swansea, who were grateful to Michel Vorm penalty save Ben Watson.

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Friday, August 19, 2011

Cesc: Bad tackles are normal against Madrid

Barcelona's most recent recruit, Cesc Fabregas, believes controversy and heated exchanges are a "normal" part of the intense rivalry the Catalan club shares with Real Madrid.




Marcelo's challenge on Cesc Fabregas sparked an ugly brawl
GettyImagesMarcelo's challenge on Cesc Fabregas sparked an ugly brawl

• Second leg Gallery Photo Gallery
• First leg: Madrid 2-2 Barca
• Barca blog: Benvingut, Cesc


Fabregas completed his long awaited move to the Camp Nou this Monday, and has already won his first piece of silverware with the club after a Lionel Messi volley in the 88th-minute helped Barca seal a 3-2 win in second leg of the Spanish Supercopa.


However, the match was marred by an ugly incident late on involving the former Arsenal skipper after Madrid's left-back Marcelo dived in dangerously on Fabregas. The Brazilian, along with team-mate Mesut Ozil, was subsequently sent from the pitch once the melee subsided, but Fabregas says it's all part of the derby experience.


"This is very competitive football, we are talking about the two best clubs in the world and every team wants to win. This is normal in football that a situation like this can happen," Fabregas said.


"It's always good to start well, with positive situations like this. I am very happy. They had just scored when I went into the pitch and I was just thinking in helping my team."


Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas also played down the injury-time incident, suggesting Fabregas made the most of the situation.


"In a match like this, there are many interests and of course a conflict can arise," said Casillas. "Marcelo committed a foul and they threw themselves to the ground, like always."


Later images revealed the sideline scuffle also involved Madrid manager Jose Mourinho and Barcelona's assistant coach Tito Vilanova. It appears that Mourinho lunges for Vilanova's head, evidently making contact with his eye, whilst the Barca man retaliated with a slap to the back of Mourinho's head.

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Mourinho unfazed as Madrid lose 'tiny little title'

Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho downplayed the importance of the Spanish Supercopa after his side went down 3-2 in the second leg at the Camp Nou on Wednesday evening.




Real Madrid and Barcelona come to blows once again
GettyImagesReal Madrid and Barcelona come to blows once again

• Second leg Gallery Photo Gallery
• First leg: Madrid 2-2 Barca
• Barca blog: Benvingut, Cesc


Mourinho was involved in a nasty altercation with Barcelona assistant Tito Vilanova during a sideline melee which included players and officials from both clubs. The incident was sparked by a rash challenge from Marcelo on new Barcelona recruit Cesc Fabregas.


However, the 48-year-old manager says the incident, along with the Supercopa trophy itself, means little as the La Liga season looms.


"If we said we are very happy when we do not win a title we would be hypocrites," Mourinho said. "This is a tiny little title, but we are not happy to not have won it, but with the evolution of the team. We played both matches very well, we were fantastic.


"If we look at the matches [against Barcelona] of the last four months, you see there is a great balance. Many draws, one victory for us in a final and one for them today, not to mention the matches which had a story which does not deserve to be told."


Never one to shy away from controversial statements - Mourinho is currently serving a touchline ban in the UEFA Champions League for that reason - the Portuguese tactician took the opportunity after the match to take a swipe at Madrid's fierce rivals.


"From the first minute of the second half, and I will not criticise it, because there are people who do this, the ball boys hid themselves," Mourinho said. "That happens with tiny little teams when they are facing difficulties."


Meanwhile, Barcelona manager Pep Guardiola was less than amused regarding the antics of his Real Madrid counterpart.


"The images speak for themselves," Guardiola told Marca of the incident involving Mourinho and Vilanova. "We must be careful, because one day we will cause harm, not on the field butoff, and we're all a little responsible for this."


Barca star Gerard Pique also weighed into the debate, suggesting the Madrid boss is having a negative impact on the game in Spain.


"I do not talk about the brawl. But it's a shame, it is not the first time and it's always the same.


"Someone has to take action on the matter. Mourinho is destroying Spanishfootball. There is talk about the Catalans, but the problem is with Madrid. I think it's going too far. It cannot always end well. In the end this will end very badly."

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MLS: Kansas City knock down Portland Timbers

Sporting Kansas City defeated Portland Timbers 3-1 to go third in Major LeagueSoccer's Eastern Conference.




Graham Zusi and his team-mates celebrate
GettyImagesGraham Zusi and his team-mates celebrate

Graham Zusi was the major difference between the sides, netting after 25 and 40minutes to give his side a comfortable two-goal advantage at half-time.


Soony Saad made it three after 72 minutes before a late consolation fromChinedu Dike.


The result helped Kansas overtake Houston Dynamo, who salvaged a 1-1 draw withNew England Revolution in the dying seconds.


Ryan Cochrane put the Revolution ahead in the fourth minute and that looked tobe enough for three points until Boby Boswell scored with 90 minutes on theboard.

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Wenger: I'd spend £40m on the right players

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger hit out at the critics who claim he does not want to spend any cash, maintaining he would splash £40 million if he could find the right player.




Arsene Wenger
GettyImagesArsene Wenger knows reinforcements are needed

• Wenger could face UEFA action
• Palmer: Shaky Gunners escape
• Champions League gallery Photo Gallery


Wenger has landed himself a reputation for prudence by refusing to bring in players over £20 million during his Arsenal career, despite the likes of Chelsea, Manchester United, Liverpool and, of course, Manchester City raising the transfer bar.


But Wenger says that he would spend as much as he needs to get his man.


"I will pay £30 million I will even pay £40 million if I find the right players,'' he told Sky Sports News. "But it's not a question of money, it's a question of quality we find. I think I have a wrong reputation of not wanting to spend money - I do not want to spend money for average players.


''We are not frightened to spend money when we think it's right. Our fans have more reasons to be proud of this club - the values here, the way the club is run, what the club is built (upon) - than being angry with the club.


"Of course we want to deliver trophies, of course we want to win trophies, who wouldn't want (that)? But we feel we were very close last year and my regret of course is that we didn't do it but we are battling on all fronts and a bit unlucky on all fronts I think."

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Thursday, August 18, 2011

Rangers sign up USA defender Bocanegra

Rangers have signed United States defender Carlos Bocanegra on a three-year deal.




Carlos Bocanegra
GettyImagesFormer Fulham defender Carlos Bocanegra returns to Britain after three years in France

• Bedoya arrives early


Ally McCoist's recruitment drive has gathered pace over the last few days and former Fulham full-back Bocanegra, 32, is the latest to arrive at Ibrox.


Bocanegra, who joins from French side St Etienne, could play in Thursday's Europa League play-off against Maribor should he receive international clearance.


The Scottish Premier League champions confirmed the signing of midfielder Alejandro Bedoya on a three-year contract from Swedish side Orebro earlier on Wednesday as McCoist seeks to add strength to his squad.


Bedoya is now joined by his compatriot, United States skipper Bocanegra, who has been plying his trade in Ligue 1 with Rennes and St Etienne since leaving Fulham in 2008.


St Etienne had insisted Bocanegra was not for sale and a spokesman recently insisted: "We haven't received any contact from Rangers.


"The position of Saint-Etienne is clear. We want to keep Carlos. He is not available for transfer. We have a very young defence and we need Carlos to lead those players. If Rangers were to get in touch, we would tell them he is not for sale."


However, Rangers managed to negotiate a deal with Les Verts and will hope the veteran can boost their ailing defence tomorrow night, with David Weir and Kyle Bartley injured and Steven Whittaker and Sasa Papac suspended.

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Diego closes in on Atletico Madrid switch

Diego has confirmed he is in talks with Atletico Madrid as he nears an end to his Wolfsburg nightmare.




Diego appears bound for Spain
GettyImagesDiego appears bound for Spain

The Brazilian has been on the fringes of Felix Magath's squad, not even making the bench in their opening two Bundesliga fixtures, and recently stated his desire to leave the club.


Atletico offered £4.3 million for the playmaker, according to AS, but Wolfsburg are thought to want double that.


Gregorio Manzano's side are looking to fill the void left by Sergio Ageuro's departure and have £38 million at their disposal from the sale of the striker.


Diego has reportedly agreed personal terms with Atletico and all that remains to be finalised is the fee for a player who cost Wolfsburg £13.5 million in the summer of 2010.


Diego told Bild: "We are still not clear, there is nothing official, but there is an offer for me.


"Atletico are a big club, but I still have a contract with Wolfsburg. This is a very important period for me."

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Redknapp: Selling Modric may help Spurs

Harry Redknapp feels it might now be in Tottenham's best interests to cash in on Luka Modric.




Luka Modric joined Spurs from Dinamo Zagreb in 2008
GettyImagesLuka Modric joined Spurs from Dinamo Zagreb in 2008

• Redknapp confirms Adebayor talks
• Modric still wants Chelsea move


Modric has made no secret of his desire to leave White Hart Lane for Chelsea this summer, but Spurs chairman Daniel Levy has rejected all offers for the player and has repeatedly insisted he will not be leaving the club. Redknapp, though, has suggested he would not be averse to a deal.


"You either sell him, go out and bring three or four players in and have a better team, probably, in all honesty, or you keep him," he said. "When someone comes along and offers to treble your wages and gives you the chance to play in a team that can win the Champions League, it's not easy. He has had his head turned and it's difficult for him."


Tottenham were left short when Dimitar Berbatov left for Manchester United in 2008, but Redknapp insists Levy will not allow a repeat.


"He won't do that, no chance," Redknapp said. "Daniel wants to keep him and it's looking like we could get one or two players in over the next few days."


Redknapp confirmed Spurs have held talks with Real Madrid over Lassana Diarra but reiterated that he does not expect Scott Parker to join from West Ham.


He said: "I like Scott Parker but it's not an easy deal. We'd have to pay £7 million or £8 million, then there's his wages and he's 31 so it's not an easy deal for someone to do."


Emmanuel Adebayor is likely to be first through the door with talks over a loan switch from Manchester City ongoing. Redknapp has revealed he has a good relationship with Adebayor after he defended his controversial goal celebration against Arsenal two years ago when he raced the full length of the pitch to celebrate in front of the travelling support


"When he was at Arsenal he was almost unplayable and if he comes here that's what we are looking for him to do," he said. "There's no reason he can't do that.


"He was fantastic against us in Madrid last year. We couldn't handle him and if he's at it and he comes here and really wants to play, then he could be sensational. I stuck up for him when he scored that game (against Arsenal).


"They had been abusing him all game and when he scored, what was he supposed to do? You stick it up them don't you and that's what he did. He rang me and said that he appreciated it. I'm sure I'll get on with him if he comes here."


Redknapp feels he will be popular with the Spurs fans. "I'm sure they will take to him because he fell out at Arsenal. Arsenal fans hate him so Tottenham fans will love him. He upset them so he'll be a hero here."

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Adam set for Anfield bow

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Ambitious Charlie Adam cannot wait to start his Liverpool career in earnest after his big money move from Blackpool.

Charlie Adam
GettyImagesCharlie Adam: Back to Anfield in red

Henry tagets top oven
Dalglish: Spending necessary
Gerrard eased back

Liverpool fans will not have fond memories of Adam's last appearance at Anfield, considering he scored one of the goals in Blackpool's stunning 2-1 win last October, but on Saturday he will wear the red of Liverpool in a pre-season game against Valencia - which is being shown live on ESPN in the UK.

This time it will be the vast majority of the crowd which will be singing his name, rather than a small quota tucked away at the Anfield Road end.

Adam, who scored 12 goals and eight assists provided for relegated Blackpool last season, cannot wait to play for Liverpool in front of the Kop for the first time, and has spoken about his delight at earning a move to one of the country's biggest clubs.

"No. disrespect to Blackpool but the size of this club is ginormous," he told the press. "It's one of the top ones in the world, one of the elite."

"There aren't can't many who would get nearly 40,000 fans watching a training session, 80,000 watching a friendly [in Hong Kong]."

"The reception in Asia, the whole thing was incredible and shows the size of this place." But that's the expectation of being here. You look at the history of the club - with Bill Shankly and onwards they have always won trophies. "It's just massive and a real honour to have the opportunity of playing for them."

Manager kenny dalglish added the personal touch in making sure he signed Adam - personally travelling to pick the player up and drive him to the training ground to sign.

The £ 7 million signing said of his move down the west coast: "It was nice to be picked up by him - that doesn't happen too often, getting picked up by Kenny Dalglish and taken to the training ground to sign for Liverpool." I'll try and put a couple of in performance for him to monitor him for that.

"And, of course, he's a hero - he's Scottish - but that shows the kind of man he is." He's so down to earth. He's achieved such a lot in the game but still has that buzz about coming back in again.

"It was tough to lose out on the move in January, and yeah, you think you may only have one go at coming to a club like this, so it was a difficult time."

"when you get the chance to come here, you want it to happen." It never did but the people in Blackpool respect the way I dealt with it. I got on with it and tried my best to keep them in the league. But we failed and that's the thing I will always remember.

"I got relegated at Blackpool and I can't hide from that disappointment." So for me to then get the opportunity to come here is incredible.

"I was back in pre-season at Blackpool for just two days and so we didn't have to wash our kit, which was the first time." I think the lads are back to washing their kits again now, though.

"That was the way the club was run and I have total respect for that." It's not a problem washing your own kit, it's part and parcel of life, and I wouldn't can't complain about it, although it's been good to have someone else do it at Liverpool.

"This club is worldwide, world class and mass, but it was an honour to play for Blackpool and to achieve what we achieved there." Nobody expected it, nobody could imagine it.

"I think it was the biggest achievement in the history of the English game." I really believe that - when you look at the budget the manager had and the players he managed to get it But when you come through the doors every day of a club like this see and a European trophy sitting there, you made there are not many clubs like it in the world.

"the expectation here is to win ever week but I've been used to that since I was young." Nothing changes. I was at Rangers at 14 or 15 and knew the club well, but the opportunity to play regularly enough to cement a place wasn't there, which is why I left. People said it was a step down going to Blackpool but I saw it as a step forward.

"Liverpool is another step forward, so I think I have always been on an upward curve." I don 't want to rest, though, and think I' ve arrived now. I want to keep going forward.

"People are comparing me to xabi alonso, which is an honour, but I don't want that." He's a top class player, a World Cup winner who has won everything.

"It's great people even think I can come and play like that, but I am not coming in to replace anyone else or be anyone else, I am coming here to be Charlie Adam."

Another of Liverpool's new faces, stewart downing, is determined to prove he is worth the reputed £ 20 million transfer fee. He said: "It's about picking up where I finished off last season with Aston Villa, carrying on my form and not doing anything differently." Just because of the fee, it doesn't mean I have to change.

"I'm being brought in to do what I did at Aston Villa, whether that's on the left or right." I'm not sure where the manager sees me playing but I just want to do well for Liverpool.

"last season was probably my most consistent season and I just want that to continue." It's a big season for me personally and the club, and I want to get in the England team as well. Debate Liverpool will see the best of me.

"This club has high expectations and it's a club that deserves to be in Europe." In the past they've have done very well and I'm sure the players and the manager will want to do well for the owners and get into that top bracket.

"I think we've certainly got the squad now, there's a lot competition for places in a way there maybe hasn ain't been in the past, so I think it's got to be an aim."

"In the long term the aim would be to win the league." It doesn't happen overnight, it's a building process and debate we've started it with the players Kenny's brought in this summer, along with the top players he already had.

"Speaking to the lads who've been here for a while, they said you can sense the atmosphere around the players and the fans." I think we just need to start well and get the fans one side, and let's have a right good go. "

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Championship: Brighton, Derby go joint top

Newly-promoted Brighton maintained their 100% record in the Championship this season by winning 3-1 at Cardiff, a result that sends them second in the table behind early leaders Southampton.




Ashley Barnes, Craig Mackail-Smith
PA PhotosBrighton striker Ashley Barnes celebrates after opening the scoring

A defensive lapse from Cardiff allowed Brighton to take the lead against the run of play on 39 minutes, with the Bluebirds' defence affording Ashley Barnes all the time in the world to pick his spot before unleashing a 25-yarder into the back of the net.


More clumsy defending on the hour allowed the visitors to build a 2-0 lead, as Mark Hudson fouled Craig Mackail-Smith in the box, allowing Barnes to step up and score. Will Hoskins' goal three minutes from time made the points safe for Gus Poyet's outfit - although Peter Whittingham grabbed a consolation for Cardiff from the penalty spot.


They were joined on nine points by Derby County, who secured a 1-0 win at Blackpool in the later kick-off. The result means the Rams have made their best start to a season in 63 years.


Promotion favourites Leicester suffered another setback as they lost 2-1 at home to Bristol City, who picked up their first points of the Championship season. Sven-Goran Eriksson's men have now lost successive matches at the King Power Stadium, having been beaten 2-0 by Reading at the weekend.


Nicky Maynard - a Leicester target - handed City the lead after five minutes, collecting Neil Kilkenny's pass before swivelling and sending a shot beyond the grasping Kasper Schmeichel. A penalty for the Robins on the stroke of half-time threatened to heap more misery on Eriksson, but Maynard smashed the ball against the crossbar with Schmeichel well beaten.


David Nugent made Maynard pay for his profligacy shortly after the break, the former England international chancing a drive from 25-yards that Dean Gerken, preferred to David James, let slip through his grasp and into the back of the net.


Parity lasted just ten minutes before Maynard, a constant thorn in the side of Leicester's defence, deservedly put Keith Millen's side back into the lead - and on the road to three vital points - after profiting from a Sean St Ledger error.


Milwall threw away a two-goal advantage at The Den as Peterborough fought back to steal a 2-2 draw. The hosts took a deserved lead on 32 minutes, with Darius Henderson's fine work finished off by Liam Trotter, who passed the ball low into the left of the net. Eight minutes into the second half, Hameur Bouazza collected a pass, drove into the penalty area before striking across the body of Paul Jones and into the corner.


The game turned on its head with two goals in three minutes - the first came when Lee Frecklington rifled in a half-volley from the edge of the box, before Peterborough took advantage of their rattled hosts to draw level, with Paul Taylor firing in a low effort from 30 yards.

More aboutChampionship: Brighton, Derby go joint top

Copa Sud: Ecuador's Universitaria progress

Liga Deportiva Universitaria of Ecuador clinched a 1-0 win over Venezuela'sYaracuyanos to book a berth in the Copa Sudamericana second round.


Edgardo Bauza's Liga, who won the title in 2009, celebrated a 2-1 aggregate winand will now meet another Venezuelan side, Trujillanos, in the next phase.


The goal came in the 19th minute when Neicer Reasco crossed the ball from theright and Enrique Vera headed home.


Yaracuyanos goalkeeper Alexis Angulo was named man of the match for his effortsin stopping further inroads.


Bauza said: "In general, we played a good game. We are improving every day. Weplay better every day.


"In the last 10 minutes Yaracuyanos attacked us with long balls only. In thefirst half we had more opportunities to score. In the second half, we playedbetter football."


In Paraguay, hosts Nacional clinched qualification by beating San Jose ofBolivia 1-0 at the Estadio Defensores del Chaco.


Silvio Torales netted the only goal of the match in the fifth minute, enough todetermine the tie following a goalless first leg.


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Wednesday, August 17, 2011

Wolfsburg announce Hitzlsperger signing

Wolfsburg have confirmed the signing of former West Ham midfielder Thomas Hitzlsperger.




Thomas Hitzlsperger
GettyImagesThomas Hitzlsperger has sealed a return to Germany

Germany international Hitzlsperger, 29, has signed a three-year contract with the Bundesliga club. Hitzlsperger was a free agent after leaving the Hammers following their relegation from the Premier League at the end of last season.


"Thomas is a player who will help us with his professional approach and his international experience," Wolfsburg coach Felix Magath told a press conference. "I am pleased that he is now with us, because he is a player who can lead the team."


Hitzlsperger, renowned for his ferocious left foot, made his name at Aston Villa before a successful spell at Stuttgart and a less auspicious one at Lazio. He had been linked with a host of Premier League clubs.


The midfielder said: "I am overjoyed that the transfer has gone through. This is the beginning of a great partnership. The club has big ambitions and a coach who epitomises this.


"I am looking forward to being part of the team, already know some of the players who I have played with at club or international level. I am highly motivated and very, very happy to take up the challenge."


The Wolves have won one and lost one of their opening two games of the Bundesliga season.

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Thursday, August 4, 2011

Baines includes the interest of the Arsenal in Jagielka

Everton left back Leighton baines is not surprised by the interest of Arsenal centre-back Phil jagielka.

Leighton Baines and Phil Jagielka
GettyImagesLeighton Baines Phil Jagielka rates as one of the best defenders in England

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Arsenal are on the market to strengthen their backline this summer, and it was recently reported that they had an offer in the region of 12 million pounds rejected by Everton for Jagielka.

The Gunners should make a second approach, but Baines insists Everton squad is unfazed by the rumours surrounding the future of the Jagielka to Goodison Park.

liverpool echotold him: "it is not disturbing, really." In some respects, we are a club that does not much speculation. I don't know there are other clubs that goes much more in the rumor mill.

"Personally I do really follow." But it is not a surprise for me that would a better club than someone like Phil. It is fantastic, and one of the top three of the defenders four countries received.

"As players we want to keep him if we can." "We must just not too much attention to it and not get involved with it, we just continue to do our job."

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City Balotelli attacker "unfortunate man in Manchester".

Mario balotelli revealed he does not enjoy living in Manchester and said lack of friends and family in Italy.

Mario Balotelli
GettyImages / LaurenceGriffithsMario Balotelli scored six goals in the League in his first season in England

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Balotelli comments show similarities with Manchester City teammate Carlos tevezof Bill this summer that he wishes to leave the club to be closer to his children.

International Italy Balotelli only joins City of Inter Milan last summer, around 24 million pounds, but its admission that it was difficult to settle in the Northwest of England is sure to spark speculation about his future.

"I am not happy in Manchester - I do not like the city", he told Sky Sports italia. "I am pleased with the coach and the team, but you can not everything in life".

"I don't miss Milan." I lack of Brescia, my house. I my family and my friends, but I think that this experience in England will help me to grow as an individual. I don't know if I will stay until the end of my contract. I'm here from time to time, we will see.

Balotelli also suggested that he consider joined rivals Inter AC Milan in the future, adding: "they are a great team." We could talk about a day. »

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Barton transfer-listed after Twitter rant

Newcastle United have told Joey barton can leave on a free transfer after scathing evaluation of the midfielder of the hierarchy of the club on Twitter.

Joey Barton
GettyImagesJoey Barton joined Newcastle from Manchester City in 2007 to approximately 5.5 million to £

Barton met representatives of club Monday and said that he was placed on the transfer list after a series of updates to Twitter Sunday questioned the direction of the club under owner Mike Ashley.

The club issued a statement that read: "Newcastle United can confirm that Joey Barton was placed on the transfer list today (Monday)." The player was informed that he may leave the club on a free transfer. »

Barton took to Twitter to publish his saying response: somewhere in these high levels of NUFC, they decided, I am persona non grata. I am on a free but the honour to bring these bands B + W, which surpasses.

"One day, that the Council could achieve, what the shirt means." HONOUR and pride. "Thank you for your continued support... # toonarmy".

It was Barton positions on his Twitter that the situation to a head Sunday account.

He wrote: "if only both players, we could say the fans exactly how it is, without them above collage us lots of money. There will be a time and place. »

Barton was an ardent critic of the regime of the Magpies since he joined Twitter in May and strongly criticized the club decision to allow former Captain Kevin Nolan to join West Ham.

The 28-year-old also made reference to a similar surge of Jose Enrique, who have used the social networking site to accuse the club a lack of ambition after selling Nolan.

If it would not effect (sic) the morale of the team and causer cause of unrest in the dressing room, am the comments of some Jose would be the tip of the iceberg, "Barton wrote."

"And once more he would be left to these beautiful fans to pick up the remains of their football club once big. "# hadenoughofcertainpeople".

He then added: "if I wanted to leave, I would just come and say 'I want to leave'. Things must apply only to am not ready to move by an again relegation step. »

Barton agent, Willie McKay, admits that he is shocked by the position of Newcastle that they are willing to let their price from nothing assets.

"I was obviously shocked to learn Newcastle are let Joey to and even more shocked that they are leaving him to go on a free transfer", McKay told sky Sports. "Joey is approaching the prime of his career and he comes off the coast of his best season for the club and it has a crucial role in the success of Andy Carroll after the creation of both of his goals."

"No there is no shortage of takers of Joey, especially now it is available free of charge and we hope will sort something soon."

The Liverpool has become the favorite of fans, one in the Northeast after initially a difficult start to his life on Tyneside.

After joining 5.8 million to £ from Manchester City in June 2007, he served 77 days imprisonment after being found guilty of assault from an incident in Liverpool, while he was also given four months suspended sentence for a training ground assault on then city teammate Ousmane Dabo.

He was suspended by Newcastle to be deported in a match against Liverpool by then Manager Alan Shearer, but was welcomed into the fold under Chris Hughton as the Magpies rebounded from relegation in the first request.

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An Australian team takes over the stars

Stars Tim Cahill and Mark Schwarzer are in the Socceroos line-up for the friendly international against Wales in Cardiff on August 10.

Tim Cahill will be back in Australian colours
GettyImagesTim Cahill will be back in Australian colours

Duo of the English Premier League return in coach Holger Osieck 18-man team named Tuesday with the striker Scott McDonald while focused on the Korea Luke DeVere Defender gets its first appeal under the German mentor.

Fourteen of the other players from the rest of the team which has played home friendlies against the New Zealand and the Serbia in June.

Midfielder Brett Emerton is poised to become the second most capped Socceroo behind Schwarzer Alex Tobin in 87 internationals counting equality has developed in the game.

This is the first official game between Wales and the Australia at the senior level men. In Wales are No.112 in the FIFA world ranking, while the Australia are No.23.

The Socceroos will be assembled to Wales Monday after weekend club commitments.

Socceroos squad: (Tim Cahill (Everton, England), Luke DeVere (Gyeongnam FC, Korea of the South), Brett Emerton (Blackburn, England), Adam Federici (reading, England), Brett Holman AZ Alkmaar (Netherlands), Mile Jedinak Crystal Palace, England), Neil Kilkenny (Bristol City, England), Robbie Kruse (Fortuna Düsseldorf, Germany), Scott McDonald (Middlesbrough, England), Matt McKay (Brisbane Roar), Lucas Neill (full), Mark Schwarzer (Fulham, England), Matthew Spiranovic, Urawa Red Diamonds, Japan, James Troisi (Kayserispor KulubuTurquie), Carl Valeri (Sassuolo Calcio, Italy), Luke Wilkshire (Dinamo Moscow, Russia), Rhys Williams (Middlesbrough, England), Michael Zullo (Utrecht, Netherlands).

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