Rio for Spurs and other transfer rumours

Tottenham want to make a cheeky bid for the Rio Ferdinand at the end of the season. According to reports, with Manchester United tracking young Everton star Jack Rodwell, who is a central defender, and with the progress made by Jonny Evans, Spurs believe they may be ready to part with Ferdinand. Elsewhere, Middlesbrough want to take young Manchester United striker Federico Macheda on loan, Arsenal are keen on signing Torino's Italy Under-21 international defender Angelo Ogbonna, and Birmingham are in the hunt for Seville striker Arouna Kone.

Ade’s latest Gunners rant

Emmanuel Adebayor just can’t seem to lay off Arsenal. In his latest rant, the Manchester City striker claimed that his controversial celebration when he scored for City against his former team was because of Arsenal's rude players and 'insulting' fans. Speaking to The Times newspaper, the Togo international claims his former team-mates refused to shake his hand before the game while the Arsenal fans insulted his family. "When I got on the pitch and heard some fans singing, insulting my dad, insulting my mum, you can't take everything. We have all got our limit. You can insult me, but don't touch my family, don't touch my parents," Adebayor is quoted as saying. Adebayor was fined £25,000 and given a suspended two-game ban for his 90-yard dash across the pitch to celebrate a goal in front of the Arsenal fans when City clashed with the Gunners in September.

Join me Roon, urges Ron

Cristiano Ronaldo has urged his former Manchester United team-mate Wayne Rooney to join him at Real Madrid, in an explosive interview with a tabloid newspaper. Speaking to The Sun, the world’s most expensive player said Rooney would rock La Liga. "Wayne would be a sensation out here. This is the ideal place for the world's best players and there's little doubt he is one of them," Ronaldo is quoted as saying, before adding, "he loves Manchester and he is a Liverpool boy. And United is a good club for him. But you never know what could happen in the future." Ronaldo’s career in Spain enjoyed a spectacular start following his £80m move from Manchester United with seven goals in nine games. However, since suffering an ankle injury, Real’s fortunes have dipped with the club losing 4-0 to a third division team in their last match!

Reds star set for the knife

Liverpool star midfielder Steven Gerrard looks set for a long period on the sidelines as his groin injury is worse than initially thought. Gerrard picked up the injury while on England duty earlier this month and had to be taken off in the first half of Liverpool's Champions League game against Lyon on 20 October. And now manager Rafa Benitez has admitted that he does not know when his influential captain will be able to return to first-team action and has not ruled out the possibility of surgery. "His progress is slow, we will have to decide what to do if he doesn't progress as quickly as we would hope." said Benitez. "Stevie's worried and a little bit low because he thought he could be better, but he still has the same problem." Liverpool play Fulham on Saturday.

Red Devils sweat on defence

Manchester United are facing a defensive crisis ahead of their clash with Blackburn at Old Trafford on Saturday. Centre-backs Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand are both doubtful after picking up calf injuries while Gary Neville is suspended following his red-card in the carling Cup earlier in the week. This means that Wes Brown and Jonny Evans will probably line up in the heart of the United defence, flanked by John O’Shea and Patrice Evra. Despite this, Manager Sir Alex Ferguson remains confident. "We had exactly the same thing last year. We had a lot of injuries to the back four time and time again. Yet we went 14 games without losing a goal," commented the Scot. Elsewhere, Ryan Giggs is also carrying a knock, while Darren Fletcher, Danny Welbeck and Ji Sung Park are all definitely out.

Pep offered whopping deal

Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina has been offered a bumper new contract. In an attempt to wade off interest from Barcelona, the Reds have put a £100,000-a-week contract on the table that will tie the Spaniard to Anfield for the next five years. The 27-year-old Reina is currently earning £60,000 per week. Manager Rafa Benitez is desperate to lock him into a new contract as was done recently with fellow key players Fernando Torres, Steven Gerrard and Dirk Kuyt. If he signs the contract extension, Reina will be the highest paid goalkeeper in the EPL!

Owen pushing for a regular start

Manchester United striker Michael Owen may still be a little short of his best form but his recent performances are starting to give the club’s management food for thought. A surprise summer signing for United, Owen has experienced many injuries over the past four years. But after scoring his third goal of the season earlier this week in the Carling Cup win over Barnsley, he is starting to make a case for starting berth. "Michael is always looking and always on the move," commented United assistant manager Mike Phelan. "He has come to Manchester United as it a fresh challenge for him. We can use him when we need to use him but he is still not at the forefront of everything." United play Blackburn this weekend.

Pav’s gone nuts – Agent

Misfit Tottenham striker Roman Pavlyuchenko has lost his mind! This is according to the Russian player’s agent who claims the poor form of Spurs £14m signing is a result of "psychological problems" and not a lack of match practice. "Of course, not getting into the starting line-up, sitting on the bench is not good for any player," says Oleg Artemov. "But Roman is much more affected by the feeling that the manager doesn't trust him and prefers to use other forwards." In a rare start earlier this week in the 2-0 Carling Cup win over Everton, the 27-year-old was again way short of his best. Pavlyuchenko currently lies fourth in the Spurs pecking order, behind fellow strikers Jermain Defoe, Robbie Keane and Peter Crouch.

Young Gunner to Atletico and other transfer rumours

Atletico Madrid are chasing young Arsenal midfielder Fran Merida. The 19-year-old, who scored in the Gunners Carling Cup win over Liverpool earlier this week, is a free agent in the summer so Arsene Wenger may well cash in on the £10m rated star. Elsewhere, Brazilian star Sandro, who plays for Porto Alegre, says he is interested in a move to Tottenham, Arsenal are considering making a move for 16-year-old Mexican wonderkid Martin Luis Galvan and Watford have asked Manchester United and Arsenal to extend the loan deals for Tom Cleverley and Henri Lansbury.

Jail-bound King sacked

Wigan have sacked striker Marlon King after he was sentenced to 18 months in jail for breaking a women’s nose in a London nightclub after she rejected his advances. "We won't tolerate footballers who get sent to jail for 18 months," fumed Wigan chairman Dave Whelan after the verdict. "We will follow the rules and serve him 14 days' notice. As far as we are concerned he is finished with Wigan Athletic." The Latics paid £4m for King but he has had a poor time at the club and was recently loaned to Hull and Middlesbrough. The Jamaican international will lose out on a staggering £2.7m when his £33,000-a-week is terminated. It’s not King’s first brush with law. In the past he was jailed for handling a stolen car and he was also convicted of drunken driving.

United's mistaken identity

Manchester United’s identical Brazilian twins Rafael and Fabio Da Silva confused the referee during Tuesday’s Carling Cup win at Barnsley to such an extent that he booked the wrong one! In the second-half of United's 2-0 triumph, the referee Chris Foy booked Fabio for a foul on substitute Jamal Campbell-Ryce when it was actually Rafael who had committed the offence. United are now in discussions with the FA over the matter and are confident of overturning it. In the whistleman’s defence, United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has admitted that he too is unable to tell the difference between the 19-year-old brothers!

Spanish stars to United and other transfer rumours

Manchester United are hot on the heels of Spanish stars David Villa and David Silva. The duo are set to leave Valencia because the club is in a dire financial state. And with United rolling in spare cash from Cristiano Ronaldo’s sale to Real Madrid, Sir Alex Ferguson is ready to write a £40m cheque to bring the strikers to Old Trafford. Elsewhere, Liverpool are chasing Sampdoria midfielder Koman Vladimir who is valued at £4m as well as £16.5m rated Valencia winger Juan Mata, Juventus have made a £6m bid for Manchester City full-back Pablo Zabaleta and Birmingham City have been linked to Glasgow Rangers striker Kris Boyd.

Gunners shoot down Reds

Arsenal sent Liverpool crashing out of the Carling Cup on Wednesday in an absorbing contest at the Emirates Stadium. Young Gunner Fran Merida opened the scoring in the 19th minute with a thunderous 18-yard shot before Emiliano Insua equalised for the Reds with a superb 25-yard dipping strike seven minutes later. Nicklas Bendtner popped up in the 50th minute to fire into the roof of the net for what proved to be the winner for Arsenal. Both teams fielded line-ups that blended youth and experience but it was Arsenal who were able to continue their impressive record of not having lost to Liverpool at home since February 2000. "Overall it was a game of top quality with two teams who really went for it, played at a high pace," commented Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger.

City and Chelsea on the rampage

The two club’s with the deepest pockets in football romped to victory in the Carling Cup on Wednesday. Big-spending Chelsea banged four goals past a hapless Bolton while moneybags City thrashed Scunthorpe 5-1. Goals by Salomon Kalou, Florent Malouda, Deco and Didier Drogba booked Chelsea’s place in the quarterfinals, while a first goal for the club by Roque Santa Cruz and strikes by Stephen Ireland, Joleon Lescott, Carlos Tevez and Michael Johnson saw Mark Hughes’ team progress. "We put on plenty of pressure and in the end they were not able to cope with it and we ran out comfortable winners," commented Hughes. Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti felt his team "were working very well, maintaining good control defensively and offensively."

Keane fires shot at Gunners

Robbie Keane has started the war of words with arch-enemies Arsenal ahead of Saturday's north London derby, claiming Tottenham have a stronger bench than the Gunners. He also says he believes they are ready to overtake them in the chase for a coveted Champions League spot. "You look at the two squads and we're definitely on a par but our bench is stronger," Keane told the London Evening Standard. "You can take away Saturday's game, because anything can happen in a north London derby, but we need to be judging ourselves against teams like Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea." Spurs have spent over £60m in the last two transfer windows. But you be the judge? Spurs’ bench v Stoke: Dawson, Jenas, Pavlyuchenko, Hutton, Cudicini, Bale, Naughton. And Arsenal's v West Ham: Bendtner, Eduardo, Almunia, Silvestre, Nasri, Ramsey, Gibbs.

Red Devils bounce back

Manchester United bounced back from their weekend defeat to Liverpool with a 2-0 win over Barnsley in the Carling Cup on Tuesday. Goals from young striker Danny Wellbeck and veteran Michael Owen were enough to secure the defending champions a place in the quarterfinals, although they did have Gary Neville red carded in the 63rd minute. United boss Sir Alex Fergsuon made 11 changes to the side that lost at Anfield on Sunday and gave a debut to French winger Gabriel Obertan, the club’s £3m signing from Bordeaux. Said Fergie: "Barnsley worked hard and put a lot of effort in, they had some chances too, but we probably deserved to progress." And he agreed with Neville’s straight red. "He followed through, in the current climate you can see why it's given."

Liverpool to unveil star signing

Liverpool’s £20m signing Alberto Aquilani looks set to feature in his first match for the club when the Reds tackle Arsenal in the Carling Cup on Wednesday. "Aquilani will be with us. He's in the squad," confirmed Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez. "He cannot start at the moment but he will be there and maybe we can give him some minutes." In other team news, Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres are likely to be rested for the tie while winger Albert Riera (hamstring) and Martin Kelly (ankle) are injured. But defenders Andrea Dossena and Sotirios Kyrgiakos could both figure having recovered from injuries. Meanwhile, Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is expected to mix experience with youth. That means Philippe Senderos and Mikael Silvestre are likely to start in defence. Samir Nasri and goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski could also make their first starts of the season.

Didier wants to be Top Drog

Didier Drogba is desperate to break the club’s goal-scoring record and will stay at Stamford Bridge long enough to do so. The Cote d’Ivoire international has already bagged 102 goals for the Blues. Bobby Tambling holds the Chelsea scoring record with 202 goals in 370 matches between 1958 and 1970."I feel young even if I am 31. I want to run and I am not tired so I will do everything to score 200 goals for Chelsea," Drogba told the club's website. "If I am in good health and don't have any injuries I can do it," he added. "And if I do it, I also want some trophies, the Champions League especially and the Premier League as well.” Drogba, who joined the Blues from Marseille in 2004, has played 231 games for the club in five years. He has scored eight league goals this season.

Red wine the remedy

Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti has provided his own unique remedy for swine flu as fears grew that some of his players may have contracted the virus during their 5-0 drubbing of Blackburn last weekend. Three Blackburn players have reportedly been diagnosed with the illness. But the Blues Italian boss is not worried. "I am not a doctor but I am worried about swine flu because it is everywhere, not just on the football pitch. We have taken all the precautions and none of my players are feeling unwell since Saturday's game against Blackburn. Anyway, I know very well what I have to do if I have the flu. It's not a medical prescription, it's my grandmother's. Hot milk and red wine - it's fantastic!" So there you have it!

No gobbing as swine flu strikes

Players in the EPL are at risk of contracting swine flu and have been warned not to spit on the pitch during games as it could raise the risk of spreading the disease. This comes after players from both Blackburn and Bolton contracted the virus this week. The Health Protection Agency said the habit of spitting could increase the risk of passing on infections. "Spitting is disgusting at all times. It's unhygienic and unhealthy, particularly if you spit close to other people," said an HPA spokesman. "Footballers, like the rest of us, wouldn't spit indoors so they shouldn't do it on the football pitch. If they are spitting near other people it could certainly increase the risk of passing on infections." Three Blackburn players have the virus including Chris Samba and David Dunn, while four unnamed Bolton stars are also sick.

Ferdinand facing the axe?

Rio Ferdinand faces the chop following another shaky display for Manchester United. This is according to a report in The Sun newspaper, which claims manager Sir Alex Ferguson has finally run out of patience with the defender, who he fears may now be past his best. Ferdinand, who cost United £30m in 2002, was found wanting in the 2-0 defeat to Liverpool on Sunday with Fernando Torres running him ragged. With Jonny Evans showing much promise when he plays, the change could come as early as this Saturday’s clash with Blackburn. A succession of thigh, calf, groin and back injuries are said to behind the 31-year-old Ferdinand’s bad form, with suggestions that he has lost a yard of pace and can no longer keep up with the likes of the lightening fast Torres.

Rafa’s job safe – for now

Rafael Benitez’s job is safe following Sunday’s impressive win over arch-rivals Manchester United. There had been speculation that the Liverpool manager faced the axe following four successive defeats (the club’s worst run in 22 years) prior to the United clash. But a win over the reigning EPL champions seems to have bought the Spaniard some time. "Liverpool are on a long-term journey and you do not do that by worrying about short term results," commented Liverpool board member Christian Purslow. "Rafa Benitez is absolutely central to that long-term plan." But with Reds fans desperate for the club’s first league title since 1990, it appears that nothing short of EPL glory this season will be enough to keep Benitez in the Anfield hot-seat.

Suspended striker blamed for shock loss

Harry Redknapp has blamed Jermain Defoe for Tottenham’s shock 1-0 loss to Stoke on Saturday – even though the England striker did not play! Redknapp says Defoe, who missed the game after picking up a three-match suspension for being red-carded against his former club Portsmouth, left Spurs short upfront. "Defoe would have scored if he had played because he's that sharp," moaned the Tottenham manager. "He cost us when he got sent off last week. I told him it wasn't just getting sent off but we'll miss you for three games. This was a big game, Arsenal's a big game next week, and they're important games we can't afford to lose him for." Tottenham currently lie fourth on the EPL standings five points behind leaders Chelsea.

Bellamy regrets hot-headed act

Manchester City striker Craig Bellamy regrets clashing with a fan who ran onto the Old Trafford pitch during Manchester United’s epic 4-3 derby win in September. In the incident, Bellamy appeared to shove the fan in the face. Bellamy was warned by the FA over the incident but did not face any charges. "The simple facts are that he shouldn't have been on the pitch and I shouldn't have gone over to him," said Bellamy. "I didn't punch him, didn't slap him, didn't backhand him. I told him to get off the pitch. I didn't quite say it like that - but he got the message. He shoved his head towards me and the FA has seen this, everyone has seen this." The fan, Jake Clarke, who is in his 20s, was fined £305 and banned from all football matches for three years.

Blues chase Argentine starlet and other transfer rumours

Chelsea have been linked with exciting Atletico Madrid striker Sergio Aguero, the son-in-law of world football legend Diego Maradona. According to reports, the young Argentine won’t come cheap, with the Blues ready to fork out £42m for his services. Elsewhere, Manchester United are keeping tabs on goalkeeper Diego Lopez, with Spanish club Villarreal valuing the 27-year-old stopper at £15m, while Wigan have joined Everton in the chase for Middlesbrough’s highly-rated winger Adam Johnson.

Torres almost didn’t play!

Fernando Torres, who fired Liverpool back into the EPL title race on Sunday with the opening goal against Manchester United, almost did not start the crucial encounter. According to Reds manager Rafa Benitez, the decision to start Torres was made on the team bus just two hours before kickoff. "It was a difficult decision because Fernando hasn’t been training," he explained. "I talked with Fernando on the coach and after this I spoke with my staff and we decided to play him from the beginning. You could see that he was not 100% and you could see that he was not fresh but still sometimes 80% of Fernando can make a difference, as he did here." Torres provided the crucial goal on 65 minutes, and substitute David Ngog confirmed Liverpool’s superiority with a second in injury time.

This team can beat anyone – Torres

Liverpool striker Fernando Torres was in a confident mood following the Reds 2-0 win over Manchester United on Sunday and said he believed his team were right back in the title race. The Spanish striker’s 65th minute goal and a late strike from David Ngog saw Liverpool snap a four match losing streak by beating their fiercest rivals. "This was a massive win. We knew that we needed nothing less than a win to stay in the title race, and now we are definitely back in it," said Torres. "This team can beat anyone, and this was a fabulous result because it shows we are capable of challenging. We have got to keep playing at this level, and keep playing as a team and we will be right back in there." Liverpool moved up to fifth in the standings, six points behind leaders Chelsea and four behind Manchester United.

Fergie blasts ref

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson blasted the referee following his team’s 2-0 loss to Liverpool on Sunday, but did concede that the Reds deserved their win. "All in all Liverpool were the better team but I think it affected our players and the referee," he said. "There were so many controversial things that happened we have to feel aggrieved at some of them." Fergie pointed to a first half penalty appeal when Jamie Carragher challenged Michael Carrick that was turned down and Carragher’s foul on Michael Owen when Owen was clean through. "The most controversial decision was Carragher bringing down Michael Owen. He was clear through. The laws of the game were altered to prevent professional fouls of that nature and if Carragher goes off, he is their best player and their captain. It would have been a different game."

Mascherano wants out and other transfer rumours

Sunday’s win over Manchester United has done nothing to impress Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano, who has rejected a new contract at Anfield, and is pushing for a move to Barcelona. This is despite being offered a new bumper £90,000-a-week contract. Elsewhere, Chelsea, Manchester United and Arsenal have been shocked after being told they will have to pay £86m to sign talented Brazilian striker Givanildo Vieira de Souza from Portuguese champions Porto. And Chelsea are tracking Napoli's attacking midfielder Marek Hamsik, who is valued at £18m, while Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is ready to use his magic on promising 17-year-old Spartak Moscow midfielder Zhano Ananidze.

Hughes furious with players for slip

Manchester City manager Mark Hughes blew his top on Sunday after his charges let a 2-0 lead slip against Fulham. A win for City would have seen them turn up the heat on leaders Chelsea and second-placed Manchester United. Following the 2-2 draw, City lie sixth, six points behind Chelsea and four behind United, but with a game in hand. "All in all I'm disappointed. We got ourselves in a winning position and we haven't seen the game out," fumed Hughes. "From the position we were in, we should have done that comfortably." City appeared to be coasting as goals from Joleon Lescott and Martin Petrov put them in command. Fulham, however, dug deep and goals from winger Damien Duff and striker Clint Dempsey rescued a point.

Owen can handle Liverpool jeers

Sir Alex Ferguson believes Michael Owen’s vast experience will see him cope with the heckling he is expected to receive from Liverpool fans on his return to Anfield with Manchester United on Sunday. Owen was formerly the darling of Anfield but quit the club in 2004 to join Real Madrid. After a successful but short stint in Spain he joined Newcastle for £16m in 2005, but injuries largely blighted his stay at the club. He eventually moved to Manchester United as a free agent in June this year. "It will be interesting to see what reaction Michael gets, but he's got the experience to handle it. There are very few players who have played for both clubs. Paul Ince obviously got a bad reaction from our fans when he went to Liverpool, and Michael might get that on Sunday," said Ferguson.

Rafa bullish ahead of crunch clash

Rafael Benitiez believes a win over Manchester United on Sunday will be enough to restore the confidence of his Liverpool players and get their season back on track. Liverpool are on their worst run in 22 years having lost their last four matches. "This game against United is just the right opportunity. It is a massive game and the best way to regain confidence and to improve our situation." And despite the club’s wretched form, the Spaniard said he did not fear the axe. "I am relaxed in terms of my position. I know how we are working every day, the players know too. In the past we have been very good and the situation and players has not changed too much." A loss to the Red Devils will spell Liverpool’s worst run of results in 56 years, a statistic that may very well spell the end for Benitez!

United fans to taunt Liverpool

Manchester United fans will taunt their Liverpool counterparts on Sunday by wearing masks of Eric Cantona, in reference to a banner unfurled at Anfield back in 1994 which read: "Au revoir, Cantona and Man United. Come back when you've won 18." United have now won 18 league titles to equal Liverpool’s long standing record and want to rub the Reds’ noses in it. Liverpool have not won a league title since 1990 while their bitter rivals have won a remarkable eleven league titles since then, a statistic that really rankles Liverpool fans all over the world! The two clubs have met in the league 152 times over the last 120 years, with United winning 58 times and Liverpool 51 while 43 games have ended in a draw.

Blues set to spend big and other transfer rumours

Chelsea are set to whip out their cheque book in the January transfer window to show big-spending Manchester City who is boss in the transfer market. And the big names on Chelsea’s shopping-list include some of the world’s most exciting talent, including former Arsenal legend Patrick Vieira (now of Inter Milan), Benfica winger Angel di Maria, Valencia's David Villa and Aston Villa's Emile Heskey. But that’s not all! Roma's Italian international Daniele de Rossi, Atletico Madrid striker Sergio Aguero and Manchester City talisman Robinho are also all being considered as Carlo Ancelotti looks to spend a massive transfer kitty of £100m. Elsewhere, Tottenham are chasing young Inter Milan defender Gladson Awako, who hails from Ghana, while Arsneal are after West Ham's Swiss utility man Valon Behrami.

Arsene’s big regret

Arsene Wenger has long been known for his prowess in the transfer market, regularly turning rough diamonds into superstars. Arsenal’s most successful manager does however have a few regrets, players that have slipped through his fingers, so to speak. One of them is West Ham defender Matthew Upson, a player who joined Arsenal as an 18-year-old in 1997, but who was sold to Birmingham in 2003 after only a handful of appearances for the Gunners. Upson later joined West Ham. "I knew he would make a big career. I didn't stop him going because I knew he had qualities to play in the Premiership, but he had players such as Sol Campbell and Kolo Touré in front of him." So is there any chance of the 30-year-old Upson returning to Arsenal? "Yes, he was always in my mind. Upson has good quality, good attitude, good spirit," said Wenger.

Red Devils sweating on Rooney

Manchester United are sweating on the fitness of Wayne Rooney ahead of Sunday’s clash with bitter rivals Liverpool. A calf injury has ruled the England striker out of United’s last two games, but given the importance of Sunday’s match at Anfield, the 23-year-old is expected to make every effort to play. "We will have to see on Saturday. If he trains on Saturday we will have a better idea," said manager Sir Alex Ferguson. Rooney has scored six goals in ten games for the Red Devils this season. If Rooney misses out, Michael Owen may get the chance to start against his former club while Ferguson may opt to deploy Dimitar Berbatov as a lone striker should Rooney miss out. Better news for United fans is that Patrice Evra and Ryan Giggs, who were both nursing knocks, are fit to play. However, Darren Fletcher, like Rooney, remains a doubt.

At last, good news for Rafa!

Under-fire Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has received a timely boost with the news that club superstars Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres may yet play against Manchester United on Sunday. The duo have been nursing knocks and missed Tuesday’s Champions League loss to Lyon. "Fernando trained today and has been working on a specific programme. We will speak with the physios over the weekend before making a decision about Steven," said Benitez. Liverpool have lost their last four games and a defeat to United would spell their worst run of form in 56 years. Liverpool fans can however take heart from the fact that they beat the Red Devils in last year’s corresponding fixture...without Gerrard and Torres!

Fergie uses Reds to take a swipe at City

Sir Alex Ferguson has used Sunday’s clash with Liverpool to have a dig at big-spending Manchester City, claiming the Merseysiders, and not City, are still United’s biggest rivals. "Manchester United and Liverpool games, as I have said many times, are massive. In my 23 years at United it has never changed and it is still THE GAME as far as I am concerned," said the fiery Scot. He also said that despite Liverpool’s four straight defeats he had no intention of writing them off. "Derby games are derby games and anyone can win them. Strange things can happen." Last season Liverpool did the double over United, winning at Anfield and then thumping the EPL champions 4-1 at Old Trafford!

Henry heading west and other transfer rumours

Former Arsenal striker Thierry Henry could leave European champions Barcelona at the end of the season. But before EPL fans get too excited, the elegant Frenchman will not be returning to the world’s most exciting league. Instead he has been linked with a move to the Big Apple, to play out his career for the New York Red Bulls! Elsewhere, Arsenal are tracking Inter Milan’s £20m-rated striker Mario Balotelli, 21-year-old Ajax Amsterdam defender Gregory van der Wiel, and Belgian 18-year-old midfielder Eden Hazard, who currently plays for French club Lille.

JT: Reds are a two-man team

Chelsea captain John Terry has taken a swipe at Liverpool, claiming that unlike the Blues the Merseysiders are a two-man team. "When Gerrard and Torres get injured they seem to be very short in the squad they've got," said Terry. The central defender also claimed that Chelsea have far more depth than the Reds. "We're very fortunate at Chelsea. Since Roman Abramovich came we have had a lot of strength in depth in the squad, like with Salomon Kalou scoring twice against Atletico with Didier Drogba being out. People said we would struggle without Didier but we didn't. If you take Torres out of their team, who do they bring in? It's difficult." Liverpool have lost their last four matches and currently lie six points behind Chelsea, and seven points behind leaders Manchester United in the title race. Chelsea play Blackburn on Saturday, while Liverpool take on United on Sunday.

Rafa urged to field pricey Italian

Under-fire Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez has warned the club’s fans not to view big-money signing Alberto Aquilani as an immediate solution to the Anfield crisis. The club have lost four successive matches, their worst run in 22 years. To make matters worse, they head into Sunday’s clash with Manchester United with injuries to key players Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres. Aquilani, the £20m Italian midfielder signed from Roma, is yet to feature for the club due to an ankle injury. He did however play in a Liverpool shirt for the first time on Wednesday night in the reserves. The club’s fans are now urging Benitez to field the 25-year-old against United. But Benitez insists Aquilani needs time to settle. "When will he play? It depends on how he is physically. He has got good levels of stamina but now he has to improve his sharpness," cautioned Benitez.

Birthday boy makes promise to Gunners fans

Arsene Wenger, who celebrated his 60th birthday yesterday, has promised the Gunners long suffering fans that the club will win silverware this season. Arsenal have not won a trophy since the 2005 FA Cup but did appear in the Champions League final in 2006, losing to Barcelona. "I know that we haven't won a trophy for four years but we have been very close and I believe that this year the team will do it. When I say that, it is not to please, it is because I am really convinced of it," said the club’s most successful ever coach, shortly after blowing out the candles on a birthday cake at celebrations held for him at the Emirates Stadium. Arsenal play struggling West Ham at Upton Park on Sunday.

Spurs linked to City starlet and other transfer rumours

It seems like Tottenham are set to join Manchester City as the club linked to just about every player on the planet! Hot on the heels of rumours linking Brazilian Sandro and Belgian Vadis Odjidja to White Hart Lane, comes the news that Harry Redknapp will move for Manchester City midfielder Michael Johnson in the January transfer window, with a £6m fee being mooted. Elsewhere, Birmingham have been linked to Aston Villa’s Emile Heskey, Middlesbrough's England Under-21 winger Adam Johnson could be on his way to Sunderland and Aston Villa are tracking Barnsley's teenage striker Reuben Noble-Lazarus, who last October became the youngest player at just 15 years and 45 days to play in a professional football match in England.

United equal Euro record

Manchester United’s 1-0 win over CSKA Moscow in the Champions League on Wednesday saw the EPL champions achieve a 14th European away match without defeat! The remarkable run equalled the record set by Ajax Amsterdam between 1994-97. The win in the Russian capital city came courtesy of an Antonio Valencia goal, the Ecuador international’s second goal in as many games following his £16m transfer from Wigan. Said manager Sir Alex Ferguson: "I think we should be proud of it. It's not easy away from home in Europe." The Red Devils now require only one point from three games to qualify for the knockout stages of the Champions League.

Rafa fearing the axe

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has admitted that he could soon be without a job following four straight defeats. The Reds face bitter rivals Manchester United at Anfield on Sunday knowing a fifth successive loss - for the first time in 56 years - would in all probability spell the end of their league hopes. "We know results dictate in football. We just have to try to isolate ourselves and concentrate on the day-by-day work in football terms," said Benitez. The Spaniard has four-and-a-half years to run on the £4.5m-a-season contract he signed earlier this year, so sacking him could cost Liverpool’s owners a whopping £20m!

Injuries galore ahead of Anfield clash

Both Manchester United and Liverpool have lengthy injury lists heading into Sunday’s clash at Anfield. United manager Sir Alex Ferguson says that Patrice Evra, Ryan Giggs, Darren Fletcher and Wayne Rooney are all nursing knocks, with Rooney, in particular, sounding doubtful. "It's difficult to say with Giggs, but we are fighting to get Rooney ready. It may be an uphill fight. Fletcher is a slight doubt, but we are hoping we get the main players fit because it's a big game." Liverpool's situation however looks far worse with Rafa Benitez complaining, "We have just too many problems, I cannot remember an injury situation like this. Glen Johnson, Steven Gerrard, Fernando Torres and Albert Riera are all out. There are other players with other problems, I have no idea what team I can put out against Manchester United."

Giants chase Brazilian and other transfer rumours

Manchester United and Chelsea are set to lock horns in the chase for the signature of 19-year-old Brazilian midfielder Alex Teixeira Santos after his stellar performances at the recent Under-20 World Cup in Egypt. Santos currently plays for Rio de Janeiro giants Vasco da Gama. Elsewhere, Yaya Toure could join older brother Kolo at Manchester City as part of a swap deal that will see Robinho moving to Barcelona, while Real Madrid are ready to offer Arsenal £16m for defender Gael Clichy. And finally, Tottenham are lining up a £14m deal for Internacional's Brazilian midfielder Sandro, who is also a target for Real Madrid and Barcelona.

O'Neill and Reo Coker kiss and make up

Aston Villa manager Martin O'Neill has patched up his differences with midfielder Nigel Reo Coker a month after a training ground bust-up in which Reo Coker allegedly swore at O'Neill. Reo Coker, who earns £40,000-a-week at Villa, has not started a game for them since then but has appeared on the bench for their past three games. According to reports, O'Neill hugged the 25-year-old in the dressing room before their draw with Manchester City on 5 October as an indication that the incident was behind them. Reo Coker joined Villa from West Ham for £7.5m in July 2007. He faces stiff competition from Steve Sidwell, Stiliyan Petrov, Fabian Delph and Stewart Downing for a place in Villa’s central midfield.

Cesc's a Barca Boy

Barcelona are convinced that Arsenal skipper Cesc Fàbregas will return to the Nou Camp someday. Club sporting director Txiki Begiristain believes the 22-year-old is a player with a Barca profile. "He was born here, breathing football. One day, he will end up playing at the Nou Camp, I'm sure," Begiristain told a Spanish newspaper. Fàbregas started his career as a trainee with Barcelona but was signed by Arsenal in September 2003 at the age of sixteen.

United's forgotten man raring to go again

Forgotten Manchester United midfielder Owen Hargreaves is nearing full fitness after more than a year on the sidelines fighting chronic knee injuries. Although unable to give an exact date of return, Hargreaves claims that he can see light at the end of the tunnel. "I really can't wait to walk out at Old Trafford again. It will be like starting my career all over again!" The 28-year-old Canadian-born England international has been plagued by knee trouble since his £18m move to Old Trafford in 2007, making a mere 25 appearances for the EPL champions.

United fans plan Anfield ‘beach’ party

Manchester United fans attending Sunday’s clash at Anfield with Liverpool will be searched for 'offending items' before the match. According to reports, the Liverpool club shop has sold out of the beach-balls at the centre of Darren Bent's winning goal at the Stadium of Light on Saturday (Bent’s shot struck a Liverpool-branded beach ball and flummoxed goalkeeper Pep Reina), and Red Devil fans are believed to be behind the purchases! Apparently they want to taunt the Liverpool faithful by having a "beach party" in the stands on Sunday. A Liverpool spokesperson said stewards will perform the club’s "normal search policy" on fans before the game and will confiscate any "offending items."

Reds chase Dane and other transfer rumours

Liverpool are chasing young Belgian defender Simon Kjaeto in the hope that he will help shore up their creaky defence. No transfer fee has yet been discussed with his current club, Palermo of Italy’s Serie A, but the 20-year-old Kjaeto is said to be a lifelong Liverpool fan and very keen to play at Anfield. Elsewhere, Tottenham are said to be lining up a £5m move for exciting Club Brugge defender Vadis Odjidja in the January transfer window, while Birmingham and Sunderland are both hard on the heels of Aston Villa's £6m-rated midfielder Craig Gardner.

Ron’s a Real new-born baby

Cristiano Ronaldo has taken a swipe at former club Manchester United, claiming he has far more freedom at Real Madrid and is surrounded by far better players than at Old Trafford...all of which makes the world’s most expensive player "feel like a new-born baby." The £80m winger also claims that the freedom to roam all over the field, will make him an even better player. "Just because I won everything with United and was voted World Player of the Year doesn't mean I've peaked. Actually, I feel like my career is just beginning," said the Portugal international, clearly having lost none of his famed arrogance!

Life’s a beach-ball for Pep

Liverpool goalkeeper Pep Reina has admitted that he lost sight of the actual football and instead focussed on the red beach-ball that had been thrown onto the pitch for Darren Bent's winner at Sunderland over the weekend. Speaking to a Spanish radio station, Reina said: "I went for the red ball as it caught my eye and was closest to me but the real ball went past me. It happened very quickly." Reina also admitted that he and his Liverpool team-mates did not protest the goal as they were unaware that it was against the rules of the game. "We didn't know it because it's not our job, it is the referee’s job to know the rules," said Reina. Meanwhile, Mike Jones, the ref at the centre of the controversy, will not take charge of a game this weekend as punishment for failing to disallow Darren Bent's winner.

Fergie facing five-on-the-side

Sir Alex Ferguson is facing a five-match touchline ban for a verbal attack on referee Alan Wiley after Manchester United’s 2-2 draw with Sunderland earlier this month. In the rant, the Red Devils manager said of Wiley: "The pace of the game demanded a referee who was fit. He wasn't fit. He was taking 30 seconds to book players." Fergie later apologised to Wiley, but the apology did not spare him disciplinary action and he has been formally charged by the FA. No EPL manager has ever been hit with a touchline ban for post-match remarks, however the fiery Ferguson could be the first as the EPL Referee's Union want to see him hit hard.

Beach-ball tosser is a United fan!

The fan who threw the beach-ball onto the Stadium of Light pitch on Saturday which later deflected Darren Bent’s shot past bemused Liverpool ‘keeper Pepe Reina, is said to be a Manchester United fan! This is according to the Mirror newspaper who claim to have unearthed footage exposing the real culprit, although they don’t name him. The Reds 1-0 loss to Sunderland saw them slip seven points behind Manchester United, who they host this Sunday. And according to other reports Manchester United fans are determined to rub Liverpool's noses in their misfortune by playing the 1980’s pop song ‘99 Red Balloons’ when they arrive at Anfield for Sunday's eagerly awaited clash.

Dead man’s knee bits for Bullard

Hull City’s record signing, midfielder Jimmy Bullard, recovered from a career threatening knee injury after receiving a dead man's knee cartilage! This is according to the News of the World newspaper, who recently interviewed the nuggety midfielder. Bullard, who has featured in England squads in the past, injured his knee just 53 minutes into his debut for Hull in January following a big money move from Fulham. He was later operated on by Dr. Richard Steadman, the world renowned surgeon who famously rebuilt Michael Owen and Roy Keane's knees. And following almost ten months of rehabilitation, he is finally back in training and ready to resume his rags-to-riches career. Famously, Bullard worked 12 hours a day for three years as a house painter before becoming a professional footballer!

Deflated Reds to bounce back

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez believes wins over Lyon (in the Champions League on Tuesday) and Manchester United in the Reds next two matches will be the best medicine to help them get over the weekend’s bizarre loss to Sunderland. Liverpool slipped seven points behind leaders United, who visit Anfield on Sunday, after the 1-0 defeat against the Black Cats - Darren Bent's winner deflecting off a beach ball thrown onto the field by a fan to completely fool 'keeper Pepe Reina. "You can guarantee that if we win against Lyon the mood will change, and if we can win against United, the mood will be totally different," said Benitez. And in a bizarre twist, it turns out that the inflatable beach ball off which Bent's strike veered into the net was official Liverpool merchandise which was recently reduced to £10 in the club shop!

Another superstar linked to City and other transfer rumours

Another day and another superstar has been linked to big spending Manchester City. This time it is Brazil and Inter Milan full-back Maicon who will apparently cost £20m...small change for the world’s richest club, who are also said to be trying to tempt Bayern Munich into parting with French star Franck Ribery by waving a cheque for a cool £65m under the German club’s noses! Elsewhere, Portsmouth are to ready make a bid for Tottenham's out of favour Mexican youngster Giovani Dos Santos. Dos Santos joined Spurs last season from Barcelona and was widely touted as the next big thing. But things haven’t worked out for the midfielder at White Hart Lane and he could be headed for struggling Pompey.

Knee knack sidelines Walcott

Theo Walcott is set for a four-week stint on the sidelines after picking up a knee injury during Arsenal’s impressive win over Birmingham on Saturday. The pacy winger’s setback could also cost him a place in the England squad for a friendly against Brazil on 14 November. Walcott joins Tomas Rosicky, Nicklas Bendtner, Eduardo, Denilson and Johan Djourou on an ever-growing injury list at the Emirates. Better news for Gunners’ fans is that Samir Nasri, who broke his leg during pre-season, and keeper Lukasz Fabianski are continuing their rehabilitation in the reserves.

City to splash on Brazilian and other transfer rumours

Manchester City’s spending spree is set to continue in the January transfer window with a big money move for Brazilian midfield sensation Ramires. A box-to-box midfielder, the 22-year-old Ramires is hot property after a string of impressive performances for the Brazil national team and is likely to cost City over £25m. Elsewhere, Atletico Madrid are tracking Arsenal’s Emmanuel Eboue, Manchester United have been linked to veteran goalkeeper David James and Patrick Vieira could make a shock return to Arsenal after confirming he will leave Inter Milan.

Rafa refuses to blame freak goal

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has refused to blame the freak goal for Liverpool's shock 1-0 loss to Sunderland on Saturday, despite the rule book suggesting that the referee should have disallowed it. The Black Cats bagged the win when a Darren Bent shot deflected off a beach ball that had been thrown onto the pitch, leaving Reds goalkeeper Pepe Reina stranded. "It's a very technical question. It could be a goal, it's difficult to say. These things can happen in a lot of games. But we didn't play well, that is the main thing for me."

Up your game, Rio!

Rio Ferdinand has been told to up his game in no uncertain terms by Sir Alex Ferguson or risk missing out on next year’s World Cup. Fergie’s advice follows a number of high profile clangers by Ferdinand for both club and country in what has been a miserable season for the elegant defender. "He has to get good form. I'm sure he's taken the criticism on board. Do I think he'll go to the World Cup? Yes, of course! But first he needs to up his game,” says Ferguson.

Malouda is a true blue

Florent Malouda claims to bleed the blue blood of Chelsea and wants to remain at Stamford Bridge for the rest of his career. Following a stellar start to the season, the French winger is now loving life in West London after a difficult start to his Chelsea career following a high-profile £13m transfer from Lyon two years ago. “My blood is now blue and I am flourishing at Chelsea. What I experience here gives me hunger to continue. I still have beautiful years ahead of me. Chelsea is in any case the ideal place to have a beautiful career," says the 29-year-old.

Ten EPL stars in line for prestigious award

Ryan Giggs is amongst 10 EPL players short-listed for the European Player of the Year award. The 35-year-old Welshman, who is current PFA Player of the Year, is joined by his Manchester United team-mates Wayne Rooney and Nemanja Vidic. Arsenal aces Cesc Fabregas and Andrey Arshavin, Chelsea trio Didier Drogba, Frank Lampard and John Terry, and Liverpool superstars Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres have also been recognised for their fine form. Last year's winner Cristiano Ronaldo is also among the 30 players shortlisted, however Barcelona’s Argentine international Lionel Messi is the favourite to land the coveted award. The winner will be announced on 1 December.

Prez orders Palacios to party

Tottenham’s £14m midfielder Wilson Palacios almost missed Spurs' 2-1 win over Portsmouth on Saturday after the president of his home country Honduras ordered the national team's players, including Palacios, to remain in the central American country and party following their qualification for the 2010 World Cup! Earlier in the week Palacios played a key part in the 1-0 win over El Salvador that earned Honduras their first World Cup spot since 1982. Luckily for Spurs, Palacios finished his partying and managed to arrive at Fratton Park for the Pompey game just 15 minutes before the teams had to be announced. Harry Redknapp used him as a late substitute.

Adebayor snaps up Ron’s pad

Emmanuel Adebayor has bought Cristiano Ronaldo’s house in Cheshire near Manchester for £5.5m. Apparently the Togo international, who signed for Manchester City from Arsenal for £25m at the beginning of the season, beat off competition from fellow new City signings Kolo Toure, Gareth Barry and Carlos Tevez, as well as new Manchester United winger Antonio Valencia, for the ultra-luxurious pad!

Anton’s Wacko Jacko tribute

Sunderland defender Anton Ferdinand, younger brother of Manchester United’s more illustrious Rio, is planning to dedicate his first goal of the season to singer Michael Jackson. The lifelong Jacko fan says he is not too sure how he will do it but is thinking of tucking a glove into his sock which he will pull out if he scores. Don’t hold your breath, last season cente-back Anton failed to score a single goal!

Capello's hissy fit as strict rule is broken

England coach Fabio Capello’s temper spilled to the surface recently as he flung a food tray against the wall - after spotting an England player secretly sending a text (SMS) message during a team meal! According to the News of the World newspaper, the fiery Italian has a strict disciplinary code that bans mobile phones from team diners and demands that players leave the dining room as a squad. Capello is also said to not tolerate players being late for team meetings or training and insists they wear suits and ties to and from games with the top buttons on their shirts done up. What's more, loud ghetto blasters are banned from the dressing room although players are allowed to listen to music on their iPods. The wearing of flip-flop sandals while on international duty is also an absolute NO NO!

Nani out and other transfer rumours

Nani’s days at Manchester United appear to be numbered after being left on the bench for Saturday’s win over Bolton. According to reports, Sir Alex Ferguson has finally run out of patience with the inconsistent Portuguese winger and will look to offload him in January if he can land Spanish star David Silva from Valencia. Elsewhere, Manchester City are monitoring Liverpool bench-warmer Yossi Benayoun, European champions Barcelona will offer Manchester City £32.5m plus Thierry Henry in exchange for Brazilian star Robinho, and Tottenham are lining up swap deal with AC Milan that will see Russian flop Roman Pavlyuchenko moving to the San Siro and Dutch striker Klaas-Jan Huntelaar heading to White Hart Lane.

Berba’s bundle of joy

Bone-crunching tackles and man-marking defenders will not be the only things Dimitar Berbatov has to contend with in the coming months. Changing diapers and late-night feeds are on the cards for Manchester United’s most expensive player after his girlfriend Elena gave birth to their first child on Thursday – a baby girl named Dea!

Heavies for Harry

Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp will be protected by a group of nightclub bouncers when Spurs travel to play Portsmouth this weekend. Redknapp is public enemy No.1 in the eyes of the Pompey fans after walking out of the club last season to join Tottenham. He then rubbed salt into the wounds by signing Portsmouth stars Jermain Defoe, Peter Crouch and Niko Kranjcar. Should be an explosive clash at Fratton Park!

Past mistake to haunt Reds?

It looks like Liverpool have not learnt from past mistakes with reports linking them to Emile Heskey. Apparently Rafa Benitez is ready to splash £1.5m on the muscular Aston Villa striker to bring him back to Anfield nine years after the club signed him for a then record £11m. Four years later Heskey was sold to Birmingham for £6m and he has since drifted on to Wigan and Villa. Not surprising for a striker with a career average of just 0.23 goals-per-game!

Coach Rooney

Not content with terrorising defenders (and just about everyone else), Wayne Rooney is eyeing the future - as a football manager! The 23-year-old Manchester United star recently started studying towards a Uefa B coaching licence, alongside much older teammates Rio Ferdinand, Paul Scholes and Edwin Van Der Sar. Interestingly, one Alex Ferguson also began his first coaching courses in his early twenties!

Kolo’s rags to riches tale

Manchester City captain Kolo Touré says he appreciates every penny he has made from football after leading an impoverished childhood. Apparently things were so bad for the Touré family in Cote d’Ivoire that little Kolo sold newspapers and cleaned shoes to make money. “I was 12 at the time. I had to do it in order to eat because my family was really, really poor.” Touré joined City from Arsenal for £14 million at the start of the season. He signed for the Gunners in 2002 for just £150,000 from ASEC Mimosas!

Gerard in Pub punch-up

Steven Gerard couldn't hurry love, but he could hurry a quick punch in the DJ's face when he didn't want to play his favourite artist, Phil Collins in a pub.