Premier League Team of the Decade

The decade has contained a selection of fine players in England's top division, ESPN Soccernet's selections are below.

GK: Shay Given. Either at Newcastle or, more recently, Manchester City, Given has been a model of consistency. An impeccable shot stopper, the Irish 'keeper commands the respect of any defence he finds himself behind and has proven his ability to win a game for his side numerous times. Solid when coming for crosses, his decision making is one of his key attributes and even with the presence of rivals like Petr Cech, Edwin Van der Sar and Jose Reina, he has the credentials to hold onto the number one jersey despite having so far enjoyed a trophyless career.

RB: Gary Neville. Is there a more consistent right-back in world footba

ll over the years? Well, not in the Premier League which is why the Man United skipper comes in. His powers having been waning with age and injury, but for his aggressive attitude on the pitch, commitment and exceptional

professionalism, Neville is head and shoulders above the rest. A good attacking outlet with a tremendous

crossing ability as well,

Neville is a shining example for today's young players and still commands the respect of his fellow professionals.

B: John Terry. Mr Chelsea is the rock that the Blues have been built around and carries the weight of expectation upon his shoulders. His desire, never-say-die attitude and commitment to the cause have made him one of the most respected defenders in the business and the fact that he is England captain may help too. A ferocious and fearless tackler, Terry's aerial ability is second to none and, although he may suffer from a lack of pace, his positional sense and guile make up for it. A vocal leader on the pitch, his indomitable style cements his place in the side.

CB: Rio Ferdinand. The country's most expensive defender when Manchester United signed him from Leeds in 2002, his performances at the World Cup in Japan/Korea made

him the hottest property in world football. Fast, composed and with a good footballing brain, Ferdinand comes from the school of ball-playing centre-backs and his passing ability sets him apart from his rivals. A committed and tough tackler, his pace and positioning make him the ideal partner for a combative Vidic or Terry style of player and his occasional lapses of concentration have only recently returned to his game.

LB: Ashley Cole. For all his lack of personal appeal, Cole's work down the left flank as a youngster at Arsenal and then after his controversial transfer to Chelsea have elevated him ahead of any rival. A tireless runner, his attacking forays allow his team an attacking outlet,

but he also carries out his defensive duties with aplomb. Fast and agile, he covers his team-mates well and can never be accused of lacking passion for the cause. Cole may not be the most popular of players after a few off-field indiscretions, but his consistency and talent see

him stand above others in his position.

LM: Ryan Giggs. When he burst onto the scene in 1991, his pace and dribbling ability made him one of the hottest young players in the game. A touchline-hugging winger, his real skill this decade has been his transformation into a playmaker and versatile midfielder who is still a vital part of the Man United squad at the age of 36. Giggs' consistency over the years, his passion for the game and professionalism have contributed to his place in English football history. His only disappointment, like one George Best, has come at international level where he has missed out on the major competitions with Wales.

CM: Paul Scholes. An attacking midfielder who set the bar for others in the position, Scholes' role in bringing success to the Man Utd side began in 1994, but has continued until the end of the following decade. One of the best passers in the game, his eye for the crucial ball put him at the centre of United's attacking play and his goalscoring ability (either from one of his trademark volleys, or a well-timed run into the box) made him a legend at Old Trafford. His awareness on the ball, vision and technique make up for a chronic lack of tackling ability.

CM: Patrick Vieira. A tigerish midfielder, Vieira is the ideal man to anchor a midfield. His ferocity in the tackle and physical strength were shown during his years at Arsenal and his importance to the Gunners' cause is shown by the lack of silverware since his departure in 2005. More than a holding midfielder, his rangy style, dribbling skills and aerial ability also made him a decent attacking threat and his box-to-box nature gives him the edge over others in the centre of the park.

CM: Steven Gerrard. The

heart and soul of Liverpool this decade, Gerrard's impact as one of the finest attacking midfielders of his generation cannot be understated. Strong and powerful, his direct running and unrivalled shooting power have turned him into a Kop hero. Best when he has the freedom to attack,

his limitless energy and never-say-die attitude mark him out as a complete midfielder. While he offers a goal threat, his tenacity in midfield is also useful in defence and his ability to grab the biggest games by the scruff of the neck has proved to be his biggest asset.

RM: Cristiano Ronaldo. Despite only having been a part of the English game from 2003, Ronaldo's impact is there for all to see. The world's most expensive player raised the bar for attacking talent in the division and, once he got over his initial adjustment period, went on to become one of the greatest the Premier League has ever seen. For all his tricks, Ronaldo's pace, dribbling skills and powerful shooting made him the most dangerous of opponents. A steely nerve and freakish consistency all contributed to an incredible 42-goal haul in 2008 that may never be beaten by another midfielder in the modern era.

CF: Thierry Henry. Having moved from the flanks to a central striking role under Arsene Wenger, Henry blossomed into one of the finest strikers in the game. His searing pace and deadly finishing ability saw him plunder record after record at Arsenal and he was often at his best drifting out wide to create space for others. Capable of the sublime, the Frenchman's skill on the ball and close control when running at pace saw him capture the admiration of all who saw him play and, although his impact waned towards the end of his time in England, he can still consider himself one of the very best.

source: ESPN

Gattuso signs new Milan deal

Italy midfielder Gennaro Gattuso has ended speculation over his future by signing a new contract at AC Milan, the Serie A club have confirmed.

Gattuso had been linked with a move to the Premier League, in particular Manchester City, as he was said to be unhappy with his first-team opportunities under Rossoneri coach Leonardo after battling injury.

Milan chief executive Adriano Galliani acknowledged Gattuso could leave but the club have now confirmed the 31-year-old would be remaining in Milan for the next three years.

"Milan announce that the footballer Rino Gattuso has extended his contract with the club until 30 June 2012," said a statement on the club's website.

Gattuso has spent the last decade with Milan after spells with Perugia, Rangers and Salernitana early in his career. He also has 70 caps for Italy and was a member of the World Cup winning squad in 2006.

Meanwhile, Milan have played down suggestions that they will make an offer for Wolfsburg striker Edin Dzeko when the transfer window reopens.

Dzeko is known to be keen on a transfer to San Siro after emerging as one of the finest players in the Bundesliga in the past 12 months but despite rumours that a number of English clubs are interested, Milan will not be making a move, according to Galliani.

"We are looking for an out and out attacker," Galliani said. "We like Dzeko, but he doesn't have the characteristics we are looking for."

Olympique de Marseille vs Real Madrid 1-3 UEFA Champions League

Juventus 1-4 Bayern Munich - UEFA Champions League 2009/2010 Highlight

Under fire Cech to sit out APOEL tie

Petr Cech is set to miss Chelsea's final Champions League group game against APOEL on Tuesday - but not because of his free-kick blunder against Manchester City.

Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti has publicly said Cech was at fault for Carlos Tevez's goal in the Premier League on Saturday, but shifted blame for the 2-1 loss towards his midfield for not dominating their opponents.

It is understood Cech, who did not train with the rest of the Chelsea squad on Monday, will not be in the starting line-up against the Cypriot side at Stamford Bridge. Other first team players John Terry, Michael Ballack and Ashley Cole will likely be rested.

Ancelotti has been quick to jump to the defence of England midfielder Frank Lampard, who failed to score from the penalty spot for the first time since September 2006 when Shay Given saved his 83rd-minute attempt.

Ancelotti said: "I can say that, at our training ground, Lampard is the player who practises penalties more than any other player.''

Ghana midfielder Michael Essien was also quick to follow Ancelotti in defending both team-mates.

"There are 11 players on the pitch,'' said Essien. "Everyone should take the blame, not only Petr. If we had done our defensive work, we would not have conceded. There is no blame. Frank is a very strong guy, very strong mentally. These things happen. Anyone can miss a penalty. He's not the first and he won't be the last. He's our best penalty-taker at this club.''

Essien will leave the Blues to take part in the African Nations Cup between January 10-31 and admits it could leave him with a club-versus-country dilemma.

Ghana have the right to call up the midfielder two weeks prior to the start of the tournament, meaning he may miss more than four games for the Blues, who are facing the same situation with Ivory Coast duo Salomon Kalou and Didier Drogba and Nigeria's John Mikel Obi.

source: ESPN

Top 10 football fights and fouls

In the games, some players break the rule and play dirty. That can cause fight and injury.

Here are some examples

Mystery club fail with Sergio Aguero bid

Atletico Madrid claim to have rejected a new bid for Chelsea target Sergio Aguero, although the striker will be allowed to leave the club should he choose to do so.

Speculation surrounding Aguero has grown steadily in recent weeks with Atleti struggling at the wrong end of the Primera Liga table and Chelsea expected to strengthen in January given their FIFA transfer ban has been suspended.

ESPN Soccernet has learnt that Chelsea have been preparing a transfer package worth a total £100 million as they look to tempt away one of the best young strikers in European football.

Atleti have not named the interested party that failed with a recent offer but majority shareholder Miguel Angel Gil Marin has intriguingly stated that Aguero will be allowed to leave the club when he feels it is the right time.

"We have had another opportunity (to sell him) and again we have said no," Gil Marin said. "Aguero will leave Atletico when he wants to go, as happened with Fernando Torres."

Aguero has indicated that he is not prepared to leave Atleti in the winter transfer window, despite their domestic struggles and early exit from the Champions League.

source:www.soccernet.com

FIFA: 33rd team hopes "impossible"

FIFA has told Republic of Ireland that it would be "impossible" for them to feature in the World Cup finals next year after the country asked to be added to the tournament as a 33rd team.

Ireland had initially hoped for a replay of their World Cup play-off against France after Thierry Henry clearly handballed in the lead-up to William Gallas' decisive goal, but that request was dismissed. The FAI then suggested that they could join France in South Africa as an extra team.

However, FIFA general secretary Jerome Valcke has now confirmed that there is no chance that the governing body will change the format of the tournament to accommodate extra teams.

"I wouldn't say it's a nonsense but it is impossible," he said. "There's no hope to give that there will be any more than 32 teams at the World Cup in South Africa."

The matter will still go before Wednesday's organising committee meeting in Cape Town as Ireland had made an official request, but he revealed FIFA president Sepp Blatter had already told Ireland that they had no hope of success.

Ireland assistant manager Liam Brady had already acknowledged on Tuesday that FIFA would not allow them to take part as a 33rd team.

"That's not going to happen," he told Sky Sports News. "We asked that to see what FIFA's reaction was going to be."

source: www.soccernet.com

Real Madrid president Florentino: I’d sign many Barcelona players

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez admits he would've liked to have signed several of Barcelona 's stars in the summer.

Before last night's defeat at the Nou Camp, both Perez and Barca counterpart Joan Laporta attended a president's function in the afternoon.

Among the activities was an open forum and one of the questions asked was who each president would like to sign from the opposing team.

Florentino answered: "Many Barca players. They are a great team and most importantly as a whole. In the last year they've had a great season."
In contrast, Laporta replied: "Madrid has a great players but we are very happy with what we have."

source:www.tribalfootball.com

Benitez faces crisis with dressing-room disharmony

Rafael Benite is facing yet another internal crisis as ESPN Soccernet has learned that the players are unhappy with the "bad atmosphere" within the dressing room.

A backlash is to be expected following the club's exit from the Champions League, but it is far more disturbing to learn that the negative environment has existed for some time.

An agent of one of the Liverpool superstars was guarded about the players' state of mind but revealed that the atmosphere within the dressing room at Anfield has been an issue for some time.

"The atmosphere is really bad," he told ESPN Soccernet. "There are a lot of unhappy players around."

Asked if those players were seeking to move away, he replied: "I am sure that there will be some players who would like to move on now, that's for sure."

With the January transfer window opening in five weeks, this is the time when players will be thinking of instructing their agents to find them new clubs.

But moving in January is notoriously difficult and, while Benitez would dearly love to ditch some under-performers and bring in new talent, the whole of Europe is aware of the falling value of their players and the club's need to bring in cash before they can buy due to their financial position.

Not only do Liverpool need to win the derby to maintain their top-four hopes, but the scrutiny will be on how the players react. Benitez is sure to inform them that they will need to perform at their best to convince everyone that he has restored harmony within the camp.

Benitez has been given assurances about his future, and five months into a brand new five-year contract, naturally the current owners would be loath to ditch their manager, not least because of the expense involved.

But the cost of failing to qualify for the Champions League next season will put intolerable strain on the club's finances, restricting buying power and making it difficult to attract the world's best players.

The American owners are committed to finding a new investor willing to buy a 50% stake and to raise £100 million, but so far there are no takers. Any investor would become embroiled in the in-house political squabbling that has marred relationships in the boardroom ever since Gillett and Hicks fell out.

source: www.soccernet.com

Higuain puts Real in pole position

Real Madrid took a step closer to the last 16 of the Champions League after easing past FC Zurich in a match that saw the return to action of Cristiano Ronaldo following injury.

Manchester United 0-1 Besiktas HQ Highlights UEFA Champions League (25-11-09)

Manchester United surrendered their 23-match unbeaten home record in the Champions League and missed the chance to secure top spot in Group A when losing 1-0 to Besiktas.

Fifa to meet over play-off issues

Fifa has called for an extraordinary general meeting in December to discuss incidents at the World Cup play-offs.

It is likely Thierry Henry's handball during the Republic of Ireland-France match will be discussed, though a replay has already been ruled out.

Crowd trouble before, during and after Algeria's victory over Egypt could also come under the microscope.

Fifa is also keen to discuss football betting irregularities and issues surrounding refereeing in matches.

Apart from the incidents in the play-offs, the Iraqi football association has been suspended for government interference and 17 people arrested in connection with allegations of match-fixing in 200 games in nine different European countries.

Farquhar added: "Extraordinary meetings of Fifa's executive committee are unusual.

"At this point Fifa is unable to expand much further on its statement announcing the meeting but these issues are threatening to overshadow the draw and preparations for the World Cup in South Africa. Clearly Fifa president Sepp Blatter wants action."

There was no doubt that the Henry handball, which effectively wrecked the Republic of Ireland's chances of reaching the World Cup, would be high on the agenda, he said.

But a senior Fifa source told the Press Association: "A replay is impossible. It would be against the rules of football."

However, the idea of having an extra referee's assistant behind each goal, as is the case in the Europa League, might well be discussed.

The system is being championed by Uefa president Michel Platini and would have to be approved by the International Football Association Board before it could be brought into the World Cup.

Scottish chief executive Gordon Smith, who sits on the IFAB along with the three other home nations and Fifa, said: "I've no doubt Michel Platini will use this incident to push the system and they may now decide to put it to the IFAB that they want to have it at the World Cup.

"I feel it has its advantages at the highest levels of the games. When there's massive TV coverage the problems are highlighted all over the world so this is something we may have to look at."

The meeting will take place on Wednesday next week in Cape Town, when executive committee members are already due for a meeting to discuss the seedings for next year's World Cup. The draw will be held two days later.

FAI request France replay

The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) have lodged a formal complaint with FIFA over the controversial World Cup play-off defeat to France and have urged world football's governing body to replay the match.

Les Bleus striker Thierry Henry clearly handled the ball to set up William Gallas' decisive goal as France drew 1-1 at the Stade de France on Wednesday night, winning the two-legged tie 2-1 on aggregate.

"The handball was recognised by the FIFA commissioner, the referee observer and the match officials, as well as by the player himself," the FAI said.

The goal has caused outrage across Europe and the FAI share the view of Irish Justice Minister Dermot Ahern and assistant Republic of Ireland coach Liam Brady who have both called for the game to be replayed.

"The blatantly incorrect decision by the referee to award the goal has damaged the integrity of the sport and we now call on FIFA, as the world governing body for our sport, to organise for this match to be replayed," the FAI said.

FIFA ordered Uzbekistan to replay Bahrain in a play-off for the 2006 World Cup in Germany after the referee made a mistake when a penalty had been awarded.

"The Football Association of Ireland is hoping that FIFA and its disciplinary committee will, on behalf of football fans worldwide, act in a similar fashion so that the standards of fair play and integrity can be protected," the FAI added.

However, in the aforementioned instance, the referee was guilty of wrongly applying the rules rather than missing an offence. An indirect free-kick was awarded against Uzbekistan when one of their players encroached on the Bahrain penalty area as the Uzbeks successfully converted a penalty. The correct interpretation would have been to order the penalty to be retaken.

FAI chief executive John Delaney also confirmed that his organisation had contacted their French counterparts as they continue their quest to arrange a replay.

"I really believe the integrity of the game has been questioned last night," Delaney said. "The governing body of world football have to step up to the plate and accede to our call for a replay.

"We have got to do what we have to do. We owe it to the players, who were magnificent last night. The supporters were incredible. It is up to the people who govern the game now. Every time I go to a FIFA congress I hear about fair play and integrity.

"This was not a league game. This was a defining game with the whole world watching and if FIFA believe in fair play and integrity, this is their opportunity to step forward.

"From the French FA point of view they need to look at themselves in this situation. Henry is their captain and a wonderful footballer but does he want to be like Diego Maradona and his legacy to be this handball, this goal that got them to the World Cup in an unjust manner?"

Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni wants FIFA to explain their choice of referee for the game but accepts that there is no chance of the match being replayed.

FIFA confirmed on Thursday that they have received an official complaint from the FAI. A spokesman said: "We have received the formal request from the Football Association of Ireland regarding a replay of the match and FIFA will now look at this."

Ukraine Vs Greece 0-1 World cup Playoff Highlight

Dimitris Salpigidis scored the only goal and Greece got a place at the 2010 World Cup courtesy of a victory over Ukraine in Donetsk.

France Vs Ireland in World cup 2010 Qualifier Highlight

Finally, yesterday France got the ticket to the World cup 2010 and here is its highlight:

Reina keen on new Liverpool deal

Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina says he wants to commit his long-term future to the club and has given his backing to beleaguered manager Rafael Benitez.

"My aim is to get a new contract in the future," said Reina, 27, whose current deal runs out in 2012. "I want to be here for many years."

The Spain international, who joined from Villarreal in 2005, also played down concerns over Liverpool's form.

Reina, a £6m signing, became an instant club hero by saving three West Ham penalties to help Liverpool win the FA Cup in his first season.

He has gone on to make more than 200 appearances for the club.

"I have some friends here and my wife and kids are happy. I have every reason to stay longer and of course I will."

And Reina believes Benitez is the right man to lead Liverpool forward despite coming under increasing pressure.

Saturday's defeat by Fulham was Liverpool's fifth reverse in 11 league games and sixth loss in seven matches across all competitions - leaving the club nine points off the top of the table.

While acknowledging that the league is the ultimate prize, Reina urged fans and players to get behind a coach who delivered the Champions League and FA Cup in his first two seasons.

"Titles are what we are all here for. As a Liverpool player you have to have these ambitions.

"Trophies are the most important thing and the most important one is probably the Premier League.

"The club was one thing [when Benitez arrived] and now it's something totally different.

"We have grown up and we can still grow up a little bit more."

With Liverpool's title challenge in disarray, the club will look to get their faltering Champions League campaign back on track with a victory in Lyon on Wednesday.

Reina, however, is refusing to give up on any competition.

from: www.bbc.co.uk/sports

Milan confirm Beckham move

AC Milan have confirmed David Beckham will be returning to the Italian club in January. The 34-year-old helped Milan to fourth place in Serie A last season with two goals in 18 league appearances before going back to LA Galaxy in May.

Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani claimed last week an announcement was imminent - and it has been confirmed on the club's official website this evening.

Beckham moved to the San Siro during Major League Soccer's off-season last January, initially on a three-month loan deal, but impressed so much his stay was extended until the end of the Serie A campaign.

Milan have announced a six-month deal on this occasion, meaning Beckham will remain in Italy up until the 2010 World Cup finals in South Africa.

"We are very happy to see again David Beckham with the Rossoneri jersey after the splendid experience of last season," AC Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani said on the club's official website.

"We are certain that this time in Europe will help the player take part in the next World Cup and to continue after his career in Los Angeles Galaxy, to whom we thank for their time.''

Arsenal 2 - 0 Olympiakos Highlight UEFA Champion League

Arsenal 2 - 0 Olympiakos Highlight UEFA Champion League

Maccabi Haifa 0 – 3 Bayern Munchen

Maccabi Haifa 0 – 3 Bayern Munchen : Highlight UEFA Champion League 2009/2010

FC Zurich 2 – 5 Real Madrid

FC Zurich 2 – 5 Real Madrid Highlight UEFA championleague 2009/2010

Marseille 1 – 2 AC Milan Hilight

Marseille 1 – 2 AC Milan Highlight UEFA Champion League 2009/2010

Chelsea 1 – 0 Porto Hilight UEFA Champion 2009

Chelsea 1 – 0 Porto Hilight UEFA Champion 2009

Besiktas 0 – 1 Manchester United (UEFA Champion League)

Hilight Clip Video for Besiktas 0 – 1 Manchester United

Fergie has money to spend. Should he spend it?

A couple of weeks ago Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson said that he didn’t expect to make any more signings during the summer. After the sale of Cristiano Ronaldo to Real Madrid for £80 million, it was expected that some big names might be on their way to Old Trafford.

As it stands, United have only bought striker Michael Owen for free as well as winger Antonio Valencia, midfielder Gabriel Obertan and forward Mame Biram Diouf, to replace Ronaldo and the departing Carlos Tevez who’s loan spell came to an end.

Debt

The fact that United have not ’spent big’ has led some people to suggest that the funds from the Ronaldo transfer were being used to pay off some of the club’s enormous debt rather than being given to Ferguson to add to his squad.

Throughout the summer United have been linked to just about every top player, including the likes of French striker Karim Benzema, Brazilian forward Douglas Costa, French playmaker Franck Ribery and Spain striker David Villa. Benzema chose to go to Real Madrid and it seems that United’s interest in the other three has all but gone.

Funds

Yesterday a spokesman for the Glazer family who own the Old Trafford club made it clear that funds are available to Sir Alex if he finds the right sort of players.

“The manager has a significant amount of money to invest. We are talking about a net amount of about £60 million. That cash can be reinvested in the squad. The manager has not been able to locate players that fit the Manchester United mindset. You don’t want to pay for unmotivated players not willing to give their all.”

Emergence

The signings of young players such as Tosic and Obertan, together with the emergence of the likes of the Rafael twins, Gibson and Macheda and the slow blooding of Ben Foster to replace Van der Sar, may just be pointers to the fact that the pundit I heard talking may just have a point.

Do you think Sir Alex would be right to start rebuilding now or should he spend that £60 million on established big name players

Roma wants to keep Totti and De Rossi

Roma coach Luciano Spalletti has admitted that he is awaiting bids for several of their players in the coming weeks.

But Spalletti insists both Francesco Totti and Daniele De Rossi will remain at the club.

“I think it’s only a matter of time before someone comes knocking to ask about some of our players,” Spalletti declared to Corriere dello Sport.

“We will invest in any replacements once we know what areas need reinforcing following the departure of one of our own. [Philippe] Mexes and Juan are staying put, I have worked hard to develop them and they give the side an added stability. We want to keep [Francesco] Totti, whilst [Daniele] De Rossi is a player that simply cannot be released.”

from www.soccernews.com

Inter cancel Adriano's contract

Inter Milan have cancelled the contract of their unsettled Brazilian striker Adriano.

The 27-year-old announced earlier this month that he was taking a break from the game and would stay in Brazil to rethink his career.

In a statement, Inter thanked the player for "his 74 goals and the eight years we spent together."

The move was widely expected with his contract with the club due to run out at the end of next season.

Adriano did not return to Italy after Brazil's World Cup qualifiers against Ecuador and Peru, in which he was an unused substitute.

He said at the time: "I've lost the happiness of playing. I wouldn't like to go back to Italy, I want to live in peace here in Brazil.

Adriano joined Inter in 2001 but had loan spells with Fiorentina for the first half of 2002, then Parma (late 2002 to January 2004) and finally Sao Paulo (in the first half of 2008).

He played 177 times for Inter, scoring 48 goals in 123 league appearances and 18 in 35 European matches and won the Serie A title in 2006, 2007 and 2008 as well as two Italian Cups.

Source: bbc.co.uk/sports

English Angle: England Don't Need A No. 9 To Win In 2010

Fabio Capello's squad, as ever, looks a little short up front, but Goal.com's Alan Dawson believes this needn't hold back the Three Lions on their quest to re-establish themselves as one of the international scene's top teams...

Italy proved just as much with their 2006 World Cup squad as the awkward Luca Toni managed to record just two goals during that competition. The goal-scoring burden fell on the shoulders of the supporting Azzurri cast, with players such as Andrea Pirlo, Francesco Totti, Gianluca Zambrotta, Alessandro Del Piero, Fabio Grosso and Marco Materazzi lending their weight towards the goal-getting effort.

England manager Fabio Capello does not have the luxury of calling up a relentlessly net-bulging No. 9 like the Alan Shearers, Jimmy Greaves and the Bobby Charltons of the past, so, bar Michael Owen - should the northern crock ever return to a sustained run of full match fitness - the Italian tactician should arguably focus more on where the Three Lions are blessed with quality in abundance: the midfield.

By skirting clear of England's favoured 4-4-2 formation - a system that has not borne fruit for an unwanted number of years now - and opting for the more continental and flexible 4-2-3-1, Capello can suitably answer the question of whether Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard can play in the same team together. All too often they were slotted into the centre of the 4-4-2 and, consequently, England fans were left underwhelmed as they failed to dovetail.

Under Rafael Benitez at Liverpool, Gerrard is flourishing more than ever and calls from esteemed figureheads such as Zinedine Zidane have declared that the Scouse skipper is the best in the world. The influence he has at club-level certainly seems to be unrivalled and so Capello's primary task must be replicating that on the international arena, by, presumably, continuing to deploy him in the No. 10's role.

How can you accommodate the pair?

A 4-4-2 can often be too rigid and concrete, with set roles too defined, whereas the 4-2-3-1 has room for negotiation, meaning that Gerrard could even be positioned further up-field. It is possible that he could perform the same duties as his club's local rival Tim Cahill has recently been doing with Everton while they suffered from a striking crisis.

Both Gerrard and Rooney can effectively share the role of the spearheading trequartista. They would then have to rely on an incoming midfield or two - from Frank Lampard; Theo Walcott; Ashley Young; Shaun Wright-Phillips; the resurgent Aaron Lennon; and Joe Cole (when he returns) - to take advantage of the second ball.

Comparisons between Gerrard and Lampard are futile and ultimately pointless. They play different roles. Gerrard now supports Fernando Torres while Lampard is effectively an attack-minded box-to-box midfielder. His defensive work is often understated. He is strong in the tackle and his positional sense in the deeper areas of the midfield is nothing short of wise.

Source: goal.com

Evra says France's fans lack football culture

France defender Patrice Evra has slammed French fans, claiming their lack of support for the national team shows a lack of football culture and that their support paled in comparison to that he receives at Manchester United.

A disastrous Euro 2008 saw them eliminated at the group stage after failing to win a match and French players were jeered by their own fans at the Stade Velodrome during a friendly defeat by Argentina last month and Evra, who was sidelined for the match, has hit out at the boo boys.

"I was disappointed to see the fans shouting 'ola' when the Argentinians were doing their tricks," he told France sports daily L'Equipe.

"(Manchester United team-mate and Argentina striker Carlos) Tevez, when he came back from international duty, told me he felt as if he was playing in Buenos Aires.

"There were (Diego) Maradona and Argentina flags in the stands. I still haven't seen a (Thierry) Henry flag or a (Franck) Ribery one at the Stade de France.

"The supporters need to be behind us. If they want us to get to the World Cup they will need to do something different."

Evra added: "We don't have the sporting culture of Brazilian, Argentinian, Italian or English fans.

"When I arrived in England, I had the impression that I was doing a new job. Because of the impact of the stadiums and the supporters...there it's a religion.

"We don't lose on purpose, nobody does that, we all go out there to win.

"In three years at United I have just lost two games on the trot for the first time, I understand that we have to win the next game. But even when we've lost, they've still applauded us, not booed."

Evra admits the players have been affected by the jeers and has urged the fans to get behind every single member of the France camp ahead of the crucial double header against Group Seven rivals Lithuania.

"It certainly affects us," he continued. "We talk about it between ourselves.

"I'm at a great club. When you have 76,000 people behind you, it gives you a massive boost, but if you hear boos from the fifth minute, you can't feel the same thing.

Tevez's Future Hangs In The Balance

Manchester United striker Carlos Tevez says he will only know what his future holds at the end of the season.

The barrel-chested Argentine is contracted to United until June, having initially arrived on a two year loan from West Ham.

The Red Devils are reportedly in agreement to pay around GBP 30 million for the player's services to a third party, but this has yet to be contractually sealed.

Tevez, however, hinted he would like to remain at Old Trafford. "I have the head start in Manchester and my idea is to stay here for a few more years," Tevez told Radio del Plata.

"It would be very difficult to have to leave one of the biggest clubs in the world.

"I spoke with the president of the club, but nothing is signed yet."

Source: soccer365.com

Nene keen on Arsenal move

Brazilian striker Nene has admitted he would be interested in joining Premiership side Arsenal in the summer.

The 25-year-old has been linked with a move to the Gunners in the press recently, but the Brazilian ace has admitted he has not been in contact with the club.

Nene has scored 14 goals in 17 games for Portuguese side Nacional this season.

Nene said: “I only know about the rumours in the press.

“I have spoken with my agent and we still have not received a concrete offer.

“I am focussed on helping Nacional to seucre success this season.

“My dream is to progress in football and it is normal that I desire a bright future.”

source: soccernews.com

Official: Hiddink Confirmed As Chelsea Coach

Chelsea have today appointed Guus Hiddink as their coach until the end of the season, as a statement on their official website confirms. The appointment had been expected over the last 48 hours, as the Dutchman, coach of the Russian national team and a close personal friend of Chelsea's oligarch Russian owner Roman Abramovich, emerged as the strong favourite to succeed Luiz Felipe Scolari.

The statement reads, "Chelsea Football Club is delighted to confirm Guus Hiddink will become temporary coach until the end of the season.

"He is due to meet the players later this week. The club would like to take this opportunity to thank the Russian Football Union for their understanding and co-operation."

Hiddink has managed the Russian national side since 2006, and England supporters will be well aware of how his team qualified for Euro 2008 at the expense of the Three Lions. His Russian side reached the semi-finals of the competition, and were applauded throughout for the skill and verve with which they played.

The Dutchman has combined the roles of coaching a national side and a club side previously. When, in 2002, he returned to coach PSV Eindhoven, whom he'd coached to a hat-trick of Eredivisie titles and a European Cup victory in the late 1980s, he combined the role with that of coaching Australia, whom he guided to their first World Cup finals since 1974, and still managed to win the Dutch league three times in four years.

His first test as Chelsea coach will be a trip to Premier League form side Aston Villa on February 21.

Bayern Munich - a blackhole for Germany´s rising stars?

Just like Germany stars Lukas Podolski, Jan Schlaudraff and Marcell Jansen before him, talented teenager Toni Kroos has become the latest star to opt out of Bayern Munich.

“For a young player, to play is most important and it is something which was only proposed to me on occasion at Bayern,” said Kroos, voted the best player at the Under-19 World Cup in 2007.

Kroos, 19, signed an 18-month loan deal with Bayer Leverkusen last week having made just seven league appearances for Bayern this season.

It remains to be see whether he ever returns to Bayern and he is not the only rising German star to leave the Bavarian giants in frustration at a lack of first-team chances.

Podolski, voted the best young player at the 2006 World Cup, also shone for the national team during Euro 2008, despite spending virtually all of last season amongst the reserves, but his torture will end.

Next season, he returns to Cologne - even if they are relegated - from where he broke into the Germany side before his ill-fated switch to Bayern in 2006.

Barred by more experienced and expensive players like Miroslav Klose and Luca Toni, who both command higher salaries, Kroos and Podolski are not the only examples of promising players who failed to make the grade at Bayern.

Having impressed with Aachen, Jan Schlaudraff played only eight matches in the Bayern shirt before joining Hanover last summer.

His time on the bench in Munich cost him his place in the Germany squad.

And Euro 2008 finalist, Marcell Jansen lasted only a season in Bayern before heading to Hamburg.

“Of course, it is extremely difficult for talented young players to exert themselves in the team,” Jansen told the Bild newspaper.

“Young players don’t have this unscrupulousness and if you don’t take your first chance you have a long wait for the second one - if it comes at all.”

When Bayern failed to qualify for the Champions League in 2007, they flexed their considerable financial muscle with a 70 million euro spending spree to recruit the likes of Klose, Toni and French midfielder Franck Ribery.

“Our philosophy rests on two pillars, one with the likes of foreign players like Ribery and Toni, which has guaranteed our success, the other with players who are home-grown,” said Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge.

And while the Bayern boss quotes the names of nurtured stars in Michael Rensing, Bastian Schweinsteiger and Philipp Lahm, even glittering performances with Germany do not guarantee a place in Bayern’s first team.

But Bayern, with 21 German titles to their name, will always attract the country’s top young players, like Borussia Moenchengladbach’s Alexander Baumjohann, who has just signed a three-year contract.

“I believe I will be able to succeed in Munich, if not, I would not have accepted this offer,” said the 22-year-old midfielder echoing the sentiments of the likes of Podolski, Schlaudraff and Jansen before him.

Source: www.soccernews.com

Arsenal face Arshavin frustration

Arsenal's attempt to sign Andrei Arshavin from Zenit St Petersburg is being held up by the Russian club's demands, according to his agent.

The Gunners and Italian side Juventus have been linked with a £20m deal, but Dennis Lachter says Zenit want the fee to be paid in only one instalment.

He said: "They want the money in one go. They did it that way when they got Danny for £24m and they want the same.

"Many clubs are afraid of how Zenit and other Russian clubs do business."

Despite Zenit's stance, Lachter says he is still confident Arshavin will be leaving the club in the January transfer window.

"There are 10, 15, 20 teams who are interested in him. The question is can they afford him?"

Zenit coach Dick Advocaat has confirmed Arsenal's interest in the 27-year-old who shone during Euro 2008.

"I am aware that Arsenal are interested but I don't know any more than that," said Dutchman Advocaat.

"Arshavin played well for us last season but he didn't play as well as he can. There's still more to come from him and people will see that."

In December, Lachter told BBC Sport that Zenit and the player, who was linked with a move to Tottenham in the summer, had agreed that he should find a new club in January.

"He will definitely move in January or the player and club will lose money," he said.

But Lachter denied reports that the player had visited both the training grounds of Arsenal and Spurs on a recent trip to London.

Milan fans urge Kaka to stay in "farewell" game

The future of Kaka remains shrouded in doubt, despite the overwhelming support of 65,000 fans and his AC Milan team-mates on Saturday night.

The Brazil playmaker put his hand to his heart as he left the field of play at the end of his side's 1-0 win over Fiorentina, waving emotionally and applauding the fans who have grown to love him over the past five years.

His team-mates all took turns in hugging him in scenes which could easily be interpreted as a send-off from the Lombardian city.

Kaka now faces an unprecedented test of character in deciding whether to accept Manchester City's millions - and turn his back on the affection shown so palpably - or stay put.

"The fans showed a great gesture of affection to Kaka,'' said Rossoneri coach Carlo Ancelotti. "I don't think this was his last game for Milan. I hope he stays because he is an important player for us.''

But Kaka certainly faces a difficult decision - one his team-mate Gianluca Zambrotta does not envy him for.

"If I were offered 15 million a year, I don't know what I would do,'' said the Italian. "This is a choice of a lifetime and it is hard to make up your mind just like that.

However, while manifesting their desire to keep hold of the undeniably talented 26-year-old, Milan have already expressed their willingness to negotiate a fee with City.

Earlier, Milan owner Silvio Berlusconi claimed he would not attempt to obstruct the deal, admitting it would be "very difficult'' to force the player to remain with his club in view of the millions being offered by City.

Ancelotti admitted he has already contemplated life after Kaka.

"If he were to leave, I would be very sorry,'' he admitted. "If things were to change, then I would have to consider a team without Kaka. He is very important and certainly the squad would change.

Alexandre Pato, who scored the winning goal last night to move onto six goals in his last four Serie A games, gave the club's fans reason to believe the world would not fall apart if Kaka left.

At the age of 19, he has already shown more than just odd glimpses of his ability, and the Milan faithful seem ready to adopt him, as is Ancelotti.

"Pato is very strong,'' he said. "And he is only going to get better. He has immense quality and can still show a lot more in front of goal.''

Negotiations to sell Kaka can, therefore, seemingly move on. The player's father, who also acts as his agent, is expected in Milan tomorrow to discuss the options, although there will be no rush in reaching a conclusive decision.

"It will not be like the Normandy landings,'' said Milan's general manager Adriano Galliani.

"We will consider things and take a decision together. Nobody has signed anything - not the club nor the player. He is still a Milan player, we are just evaluating and considering.

Clarence Seedorf said: "I would be surprised if he left. I don't think he has made up his mind yet, but it would surprise me if he left us in January.''

David Beckham has only just joined the Serie A club and admits he would like to get to know Kaka a bit better over the next two months before he returns to the Los Angeles Galaxy.

"He's a great lad and it's great to play in the team with him,'' he said. "He is one of the best players in the world and it is obvious that the best players are always the focus of speculation.

Milan have reportedly agreed to let Kaka hear what City have to offer, but Beckham still expects Kaka to follow his heart.

Ex-referee backs Rafa rant against Ferguson

Former Premier League referee Graham Poll has backed Rafael Benitez's claim that Sir Alex Ferguson receives lenient treatment from the Football Association.

Liverpool manager Benitez blasted his Manchester United counterpart on Friday, alleging Ferguson does not get punished sufficiently for his sometimes outspoken criticism of match officials.

"During the respect campaign, and this is a fact, Mr Ferguson was charged by the FA for improper conduct after comments made about Martin Atkinson and (referees' chief) Keith Hackett," Benitez said.

"He was not punished. He is the only manager in the league that cannot be punished for these things. "How can you talk about the respect campaign and criticise the referee every single week?"

Poll was considered the Premier League's top official until his retirement at the end of the 2006-07 season.

He enjoyed a good relationship with Ferguson, who even phoned Poll to offer him support in the wake of his gaffe at the 2006 World Cup, when he showed Croatia's Josip Simunic three yellow cards.

But the former referee agrees with Benitez's suggestion that the United boss receives preferential treatment from FA disciplinary chiefs.

"The authorities could point to Ferguson's two-match ban imposed earlier this season as proof that he is not out of reach of their disciplinary department, but that was for marching onto the field after the 4-3 win over Hull and for comments made directly to the referee, Mike Dean, who in reporting the misconduct forced the FA's hand."

An FA spokesman said Benitez's comments would be reviewed "in their full context" next week before any decision is reached on whether to take action against the Reds boss.

Source: EPSN

Top 20 Rich Player & Club Owner

Manchester City's hugely wealthy owner Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan has toppled Roman Abramovich to head British football's rich list.

Sheikh Mansour, a member of the royal family of Abu Dhabi, has a personal fortune of £15billion according to the Football Rich List, researched and published by FourFourTwo magazine.

David Beckham remains the richest player associated with British football - his personal fortune of £125million being streets ahead of his closest rivals Michael Owen (£40million) and Wayne Rooney (£35million).

Beckham is 38th in the overall list, while England head coach Fabio Capello is at number 73 worth an estimated £25million with a £6million-a-year contract and a £10million private art collection.

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is at number 78 in the list (£22million) and Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger at number 92 (£14million).

Rich List Top 20

1 Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan (Man City) £15billion
2 Lakshmi Mittal and family (QPR) £12.5bn
3 Roman Abramovich (Chelsea) £7bn
4 Joe Lewis (Tottenham) £2.5bn
5 Bernie and Slavica Ecclestone (QPR) £2.4bn
6 Stanley Kroenke (Arsenal) £2.245bn
7 Alisher Usmanov (Arsenal) £1.5bn
8= Lord Grantchester & the Moores Family (Everton) £1.2bn
8= Dermot Desmond (Celtic) £1.2bn
10= Lord Ashcroft (Watford) £1.1bn
10= Malcolm Glazer and family (Man Utd) £1.1bn
12 Simon Keswick (Cheltenham) £966m
13 Trevor Hemmings (Preston) £900m
14 Mike Ashley (Newcastle) £800m
15 Randy Lerner (Aston Villa) £750m
16 Tom Hicks (Liverpool) £700m
17 The Walker Family (Blackburn) £660m
18 Mohammed Al Fayed (Fulham) £650m
19 Sir David Murray (Rangers) £600m
20 Steve Morgan (Wolves) £400m

Top 20 players: (overall position in the main list in brackets)

1 David Beckham £125m (38)
2 Michael Owen £40m (56=)
3 Wayne Rooney £35m (61)
4= Rio Ferdinand £28m (69=)
4= Robbie Fowler £28m (69=)
4= Sol Campbell £28m (69=)
7 Ryan Giggs £23m (77)
8= Michael Ballack £20m (80=)
8= Frank Lampard £20m (80=)
10 Steven Gerrard £19m (86)
11 Cristiano Ronaldo £18m (87)
12 John Terry £17m (88)
13 Didier Drogba £15m (89)
14= Nicolas Anelka £14m (92=)
14= Damien Duff £14m (92=)
16= Dimitar Berbatov £13m (96=)
16= Ashley and Cheryl Cole £13m (96=)
16= Fernando Torres £13m (96=)
19 = Emile Heskey £12m (100)
20 Gary Neville £11.75m (101)

Man Utd sign deal for Serbian duo

Manchester United have completed the signings of Serbian pair Zoran Tosic and Adam Ljajic from Partizan Belgrade.

Left-winger Tosic and midfielder Ljajic arrive at Old Trafford for an undisclosed fee although reports claim a combined figure of £16.3m.

The 21-year-old goes straight into United's squad while 17-year-old Ljajic will be loaned back out to Partizan.

Tosic - nicknamed Bambi because of his lean build - has appeared 12 times for his country and can play on either flank, having also starred for Serbia's Under-21 side. He will join countryman Nemanja Vidic at Old Trafford and wear the number 14 shirt while Ljajic will arrive back at United for the 2009/10 season.

Tosic increases manager Sir Alex Ferguson's options on the left wing with Ryan Giggs and Nani already battling it out in that position although in recent weeks Ji-sung Park has also played there.

However, any outstanding issues have now been resolved, leaving Tosic free to swap the Stadion Partizana for Old Trafford next week, with Ljajic staying in Belgrade for the remainder of the season.

At just 17, Ferguson feels Ljajic will benefit from the stability of remaining with Partizan, knowing his first-team opportunities at United would be almost non-existent this season.

Ljajic has already made his presence felt at under-21 level for Serbia and most observers believe it is only a matter of time before he gains full international honours.

It has been suggested United could end up paying around £17million for the duo, who will link up with compatriot Nemanja Vidic at Old Trafford, although that figure is likely to be based heavily on future success and the club have refused to comment on the size of an initial payment.

Ferguson did not make clear whether his statement on the end of transfer business included turning Carlos Tevez's loan deal into a permanent transfer.

Although it has been suggested Tevez's advisor Kia Joorabchian is due to have more talks with United chief executive David Gill, the United boss has been unable to shed any more light on the present position.