Pep and Nando won’t insult fans – Red Roy

(31-10-2010) Pepe Reina and Fernando Torres will not demand transfers away from Liverpool, reckons club boss Roy Hodgson. This follows newspaper reports that the Spanish pair are unhappy on Merseyside and may seek to leave in January. "Torres and Reina are training very well and if they are unhappy and wanting to get away they are making a damn good job of disguising it,” Hodgson told the Daily Mail newspaper on Saturday. "They are great favourites here and I can't imagine for one minute they would insult Liverpool fans in any way by suggesting, "We are unhappy, and we are only here for the good times". Added the 63-year-old: "Players have to recognise their responsibilities when playing for Liverpool. Both of them I'm sure are as committed as I am to getting us high up the table."

Fergie jumps to Nani’s defence

(31-10-2010) Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has jumped to the defence of Nani following his controversial goal in the club’s 2-0 win over Tottenham on Saturday. The Portuguese winger slotted into an empty net after Spurs keeper Heurelho Gomes rolled the ball out to take a free-kick that he thought had been given for handball. "It was bizarre," commented Fergie afterwards. "No-one knew at the time what was wrong. One minute the goalkeeper had the ball in his hands and next it's in his net.” He added: "Nani looked back and looked at the referee and the referee said 'play on', so what can he do but put the ball in the net? You can look at the referee and look at the linesmen and blame them, but the goalkeeper should know better. He's an experienced goalkeeper. I thought he made a mess of it."

‘arry slams ref for allowing bizarre goal

(31-10-2010) Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp slammed referee Mark Clattenburg for allowing Nani's controversial goal to stand late in the club’s 2-0 defeat to Manchester United on Saturday. Portuguese winger Nani slotted into an empty net after Spurs keeper Heurelho Gomes rolled the ball out to take a free-kick that he thought had been given for handball. "The whole thing was a farce," commented Redknapp. "It was handball. Nani put his hand on it and dragged it down. Mark Clattenburg is a top referee but he has had a nightmare with that." The incident took place seconds after Nani had failed in a penalty appeal after he tangled with Spurs defender Younes Kaboul and then subsequently clearly handled the ball. Clattenburg however did not blow his whistle.

We can still raise our game – Wenger

(31-10-2010) Arsene Wenger has called on his charges to raise their game if they are to harbour dreams of winning the EPL title. The Frenchman’s comments came after the Gunners scored a late win over West Ham on Saturday, courtesy of an 88th minute Alex Song goal. Praising his side's patience and intelligence, Wenger said: “We have a good chance for the title, yes, but we want to show consistency first. We go step by step and we still need to step up a gear to completely achieve that.” He said his young team can certainly offer a lot more. “We have good potential on the bench today and some players to come back. If we can keep a good injury record then we have a chance." Arsenal currently trail league leaders Chelsea by five points.

La Liga giants eye Spurs star and other red-hot gossip

(31-10-2010) Tottenham star Luka Modric has been linked with a move to Barcelona. The little Croatian has been a big hit at White Hart Lane since his £16.5m move from Dinamo Zagreb in 2008. Spanish giants Barca are reportedly ready to offer Spurs double that transfer fee to land the 25-year-old. Elsewhere, Manchester United have been linked with a move for Lille's £12 million-rated teenage midfielder Eden Hazard; Liverpool have been offered Lyon's Argentine striker Lisandro Lopez; and Michael Owen could be sacrificed as Manchester United look to slash their wage bill following Wayne Rooney's pay rise - with Aston Villa boss Gerard Houllier eager to take Owen on.

Spurs defender condemns Roo’s ‘dirty’ behaviour

(30-10-2010) The ante has been upped ahead of the clash between Manchester United and Tottenham at Old Trafford on Saturday, with Spurs defender Benoit Assou-Ekotto labelling Waynne Rooney a “a dirty prostitute sha**er.” "The tendency in football at the moment is that as long as you're not a prostitute sha**er then it's OK, it's no big deal,” Cameroon international Assou-Ekotto told French magazine So Foot. "Wayne's not very well and it's a dirty thing for his wife to know he had relations with a prostitute." Rooney recently returned to England from a brief holiday in Dubai where he tried to patch things up with wife Colleen. He is currently struggling with an ankle injury.

Everything is in Chicarito’s favour – Fergie

(30-10-2010) Javier Hernandez looks set for an extended run in Manchester United’s starting line-up. The 22-year-old Mexico international has impressed with four goals in his last four games for the Red Devils, with first-choice striker Wayne Rooney sidelined with injury. ‘Chicarito’, as Hernandez is known, has been an instant hit at Old Trafford since his summer move from Chivas Guadalajara. "We are not surprised because we identified a lot about him before we signed him,” commented United boss Sir Alex Ferguson on Friday. "Seeing him in pre-season and training we thought he would do well. He is young and wants to learn and he comes from a really good football pedigree. He speaks the language and that is important. Everything is in his favour.” United play Tottenham on Saturday, having not lost to the North Londoners at Old Trafford since 1989.

Mancini slams boozing stars

(30-10-2010) Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini has slammed three of his players following a raucous night on the town. English stars Gareth Barry, Adam Johnson and Joe Hart were spotted on a bender on Monday night by The Sun newspaper. "I don't understand it. It is a problem for many British players - it's a cultural thing," said Mancini on Friday. "I don't understand why they have chosen this and I am unhappy about it. For Johnson it is normal because he is young. But we are playing every three or four days at the moment and it is difficult enough to recover. It is important they recover well between games. Now I want to resolve this problem in the dressing room." City currently lie fourth on the EPL standings, five points behind leaders Chelsea.

Why I left Anfield - Masch

(30-10-2010) Javier Mascherano walked out on Liverpool because of the club’s lack of ambition. The Argentine midfielder left Anfield for Barcelona in the summer for £17m. "While Manchester City, Chelsea and Manchester United were spending big money, Liverpool couldn't because they had no money,” the 26-year-old told The Sun newspaper on Friday. "The situation is clear to me. When you want to fight for big things, titles, you must have a big team to win. But, at Liverpool, that wasn't the case.” He added: "That was the main reason we didn't qualify for the Champions League and all players want to test themselves at that level." Mascherano made 139 appearances for the Reds in three years at the club. Liverpool were recently bought out by New England Sports Ventures who have vowed to spend big to return the club to former glories.

Gunners starlet in the money and other red-hot gossip

(30-10-2010) Arsenal are set to offer young star Jack Wilshere a bumper new deal. According to reports, the 20-year-old will put pen to paper shortly on a £20m, five-year contract. Wilshere is considered one of the best talents in England and has started to show his class in the Gunners first team this season. Elsewhere, Blackburn are set to offer Manchester City winger Shaun Wright-Phillips a chance to resurrect his career at Ewood Park; Manchester United are set to make a move for Italian star Daniele de Rossi who plays for Serie A side Roma; and Arsenal are considering a move for Real Madrid bench warmer Karim Benzema, who has also been strongly linked with a move to Manchester United.

Ron backs Roo to fire again

(29-10-2010) Cristiano Ronaldo has backed friend Wayne Rooney to fire Manchester United back to the top of English football. Ronlado played alongside Rooney at Old Trafford before leaving for Real Madrid for a world record £80m in 2009. "Wayne has not started this season very well but he is still a fantastic player and I know that very soon he will be back to show that," said Ronaldo on Thursday. Rooney has not scored from open play for United for nearly seven months. In contrast, Ronaldo has scored nine goals in his last four games for Real after a slow start to the season. "It is difficult to play at the highest level all the time. I just stayed calm, worked hard and did my job for the team and suddenly I scored a few goals and everything changed. That will happen for Wayne."

We can end Old Trafford hoodoo – Modric

(29-10-2010) Tottenham’s Croatian star Luka Modric has backed his team to end their 21-year Old Trafford hoodoo this weekend. Spurs play Manchester United on Saturday, having not beaten the Red Devils in their backyard since December 1989, when Gary Lineker netted the only goal of the game. This doesn’t bother Modric, who believes the club have taken enormous confidence in their stirring second-half comeback against Inter Milan in the Champions league recently. "We're ready, why not? We showed against Inter in the second half that we can compete with the best teams in the world and United is certainly one of the best teams in the world,” Modric told the club's official website on Thursday. "But why not go there and try to win? I know Tottenham haven't won at Old Trafford for a long time, so why not now?”

United legends to cash-in in the Middle East?

(29-10-2010) Manchester United legends Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes and Gary Neville have been offered whopping salaries of £200,000 a week to finish their careers in the Middle East. According to reports, top clubs in the UAE League have already discussed signing the trio next summer. The three veterans all have contracts that expire at the end of the season. Italian legend and the country’s 2006 World Cup-winning captain Fabio Cannavaro moved to UAE club Al Ahli earlier this year and was immediately put on £110,000-a-week tax free - which equates to £200,000 in England.

Wenger fears Walcott’s blinding pace

(29-10-2010) Arsene Wenger is worried that flying winger Theo Walcott’s searing pace could be the route of his injury battles. The 21-year-old England international has suffered a string of knocks over the past two years. "At his pace, when you get stopped, you are always vulnerable,” commented Wenger on Thursday. "Against Newcastle (in the Carling Cup on Wednesday) he got one or two tackles and he got away with it because he did not have his full weight on his standing leg.” Added Wenger: "When you play against a player who is so quick, sometimes you can mistime tackles. It's not necessarily always that you want to hit him, but he is so quick that you think, 'Now I can get the ball', and it has gone away."

United tracking Black Cats starlet and other red-hot gossip

(29-10-2010) Sunderland have slapped a whopping £20m price tag on talented midfielder Jordan Henderson. The 20-year-old Englishman is being tracked by Manchester United and a host of other top clubs after a series of fine displays for the Black Cats. Elsewhere, Liverpool are ready to offer Roma's want-away striker Mirko Vucinic an escape route in January; Tottenham are eager to sign Getafe's Ghanaian midfielder Derek Boateng but face competition from Sevilla; Chelsea and Manchester United are both keeping tabs on German star Bastian Schweinsteiger who is a free agent at the end of the season; and Aston Villa boss Gerard Houllier is preparing to let striker John Carew leave Villa Park, and may replace him with Manchester City forward Roque Santa Cruz.

Owen pondering retirement

(28-10-2010) Michael Owen may hang up his boots if he is not offered a new contact by Manchester United. The former European Player of the Year is in the final season of a two-year deal with the Red Devils. "I would honestly love to stay but you will have to ask the manager about the long term,” commented the 30-year-old on Wednesday. The former Liverpool and Real Madrid star said the thought of playing for lesser clubs in the EPL was not that appealing to him. "Whether I would want to be dropping down to a poorer Premier League team, I don't know. Yes I could score goals but I would probably get less opportunities and less enjoyment.” Owen has scored 12 goals in 14 starts for United since joining the club in July 2009.

Winning ways must continue - Skrtel

(28-10-2010) Tough Liverpool defender Martin Skrtel is confident the club can continue on their winning ways against Bolton on Sunday. The Reds picked up only their second league win of the season last weekend when they downed Blackburn 2-1. The Slovakia star now wants to build on that crucial win. "A team like Liverpool has to be all about winning and I hope that we will carry it on from Blackburn on to the Bolton game,” said the heavily tattooed player. "I think our performances will get better and better now. In the past few months there has been some trouble around the club (with the owners) and now we know the situation is done.” He added: "We have got to carry on and work hard on the pitch for the club. We have got to show our quality and our heart and keep going so we can improve."

Becks backs Real for La Liga crown

(28-10-2010) David Beckham reckons his former club Real Madrid will wrest the La Liga crown from arch-enemies Barcelona this season. The Meringues have not won a trophy since 2008, with Barca establishing themselves as the undoubted best team in Spain if not Europe. But after a fine 12-game unbeaten start under new manager Jose Mourinho, Beckham believes Madrid can come out on top this season. "As much as I respect Barcelona and think it's a great club, my heart is always with Real Madrid,” said the Englishman. "So I believe that this year, with the manager they've got in, with Florentino (Perez, Madrid president), with the players they've got at the club, I believe they will be number one this year." Beckham spent four years at the Bernabeu before moving to the Los Angeles Galaxy in 2007.

Little Pea reminds me of me – Owen

(28-10-2010) Michael Owen has hailed the goal scoring instincts of Manchester United team-mate Javier Hernandez. ‘Chicarito’ has been an instant hit at Old Trafford since joining the club from Mexican side Chivas in the summer. "Players will obviously score goals in teams but I don't think there are many goalscorers around. Chicharito is one. You can see it in his eyes. It is more instinctive. You are born with it,” said Owen on Wednesday. "He reminds me of myself, more so than the other strikers. You just see it in his mannerisms.” Added Owen: “There are loads of people who can score, who might even score 20 a season, but they're not goalscorers. They might be good finishers, but he's different.”

Barca boss to succeed Fergie and other red-hot gossip

(28-10-2010) Barcelona coach Josep Guardiola is fancied as Sir Alex Ferguson's successor at Manchester United. According to reports, the fiery Scot has recommended the 39-year-old Guardiola to the United board because he likes his ‘style of play’. Guardiola is rumoured to have a difficult relationship with Barcelona's new president Sandro Rossell and the ex-Spanish international's contract expires next summer. Elsewhere, Monaco forward Dieumerci Mbokani is flattered but uninterested by suggestions of a January move to Tottenham; Manchester City striker Roque Santa Cruz intends to leave the club in January - and suggests fellow City forward Carlos Tevez could follow him through the exit door; Chelsea are considering a move for Shakhtar Donetsk's Croatian full-back Darijo Srna; and Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has stepped up his plan to get the club's key players to commit to the Old Trafford outfit by offering John O'Shea a new £16.5m contract.

Cole vows to provide Nando with ammo

(27-10-2010) Joe Cole has vowed to provide the ammunition for Fernando Torres to fire. Torres has had a miserable season so far, scoring a paltry two goals. On Monday Liverpool goalkeeper Pep Reina said the club’s players must share the blame for the Spaniard’s poor form because they weren’t providing the spark for the striker to feast on. Cole has now vowed to change all that. "We've been working on getting the ball out to the left and whipping it in for Fernando,” said Cole on Tuesday. "He is the focal point of our team. If he is playing well, he is going to score a lot of goals.”

Ace goal predators set for Manchester derby

(27-10-2010) Wayne Rooney and Carlos Tevez should both be fit for the mouth-watering Manchester derby next month. According to reports, Rooney is expected to have shaken off his ankle knack in time for the game on November 10. They even believe he may lead United's line against Cchelsea in two weeks' time. Meanwhile, City received a boost of their own on Monday when it emerged that the thigh strain that forced Tevez out of the Blues clash with Arsenal last weekend is not as serious as first feared and it should not keep him out of Saturday's game at Wolves, which means that barring any other mishaps he will be fit to face his former club come November 10.

Messi backs Barca team-mates for award

(27-10-2010) Lionel Messi has backed Barcelona team-mates Xavi Hernandez and Andres Iniesta for this season’s Ballon d’Or. The little Argentine says he does not expect to retain the coveted award due to a disappointing World Cup. "I want the winner of the Ballon d'Or to be someone in our locker room," Messi told France Football. Asked who he thought was favourite, he replied: "Xavi and Iniesta, who scored in the final. He was the best player in the tournament, even though Diego Forlan was chosen. I think the World Cup will have a lot of weight on the final decision." Barcelona players Carles Puyol, Daniel Alves and David Villa have also all been nominated for this year’s award.

JT ready to scrap with ‘Blackeye’ Rovers

(27-10-2010) John Terry believes clubs have every right to play the game hard as Chelsea prepare for another bruising battle with Blackburn this weekend. Blackburn, and few other EPL sides, were recently criticised for being overly physical. "What has been said about teams like Blackburn, Wolves and Stoke is very unfair,” said the tough-tackling Chelsea skipper on Tuesday. "We can't expect to go to Ewood Park and pick up three points just because we're Chelsea Football Club. First and foremost we've got to go there and have a fight with them. We have to be prepared for a scrap." Reigning champions Chelsea currently lead the EPL standings by five points.

Belgian star to choose United over ‘Pool and other red-hot gossip

(27-10-2010) Steven Defour wants to join Manchester United ahead of Liverpool. The 22-year-old Standard Liege player has been tracked by the EPL giants for the past year. According to reports he has been put off a move to Anfield by the crisis at the club. The talented midfielder is valued at £12m. Elsewhere, Manchester City are after Sporting Lisbon defender Daniel Carrico but face competition from Juventus and Atletico Madrid for the Portugal Under-21 star; Fulham manager Mark Hughes wants to bring Manchester City striker Roque Santa Cruz to Craven Cottage during the January transfer window; and Manchester United are lining up a double Dutch midfield swoop for PSV Eindhoven's Ibrahim Afellay and Feyenoord's Leroy Fer.

Now Evra lands a whopper deal

(26-10-2010) Manchester United are set to offer star left-back Patrice Evra a new mega deal. According to reports, the club are set to grant the Frenchman a new four-year deal that will see his wages increase from £70,000 a week to £100,000. The contract will tie him to the club until he is 33-years-old. Evra is widely considered to be amongst the best players in his position on the planet. He has attracted interest from Spanish giants Barcelona and Real Madrid in recent months. United signed Evra from Monaco for £5.5m in 2006. He has 32 French caps to his name.

Fans will forgive Roo - Neville

(26-10-2010) Manchester United legend Gary Neville has hailed the outcome of last week’s saga around Wayne Rooney's future as "the best outcome for all parties". Rooney, who openly questioned the club’s ambition, almost left the Red Devils last week before signing a whopping new five-year deal. Neville believes the club’s fans will soon forgive the England striker. In his column for the Sunday Times of Malta, Neville wrote: "When our top players sign long-term contracts it obviously gives us a boost. Wayne is staying and now we look forward to winning trophies with him in our team.” Added Neville: "The main thing is that after a difficult week the best outcome was reached for all parties. He has apologised to the fans and everyone else connected with the club so we have to put it to bed now.” Neville recently made his 600th appearance for the club.

Team to blame for Torres woes – Reina

(26-10-2010) Liverpool ‘keeper Pep Reina claims the club’s entire squad must take the blame for Fernando Torres' difficulties in front of goal. Torres has scored a paltry two gaols this season and has looked a pale shadow of his former self. “All strikers are about scoring goals, scoring winning goals, and I think he can build on that strike from now on," commented Reina after Torres scored the winner against Blackburn on Sunday. “When strikers are not scoring fingers are pointed at them - it is not fair. I think we were not assisting him rightly in the last few weeks and he could do nothing at all. He can win you a game easily but we have to feed him - that is the point." Torres still boasts an incredible record at Anfield, having netted 58 goals in 88 appearances for the Merseysiders.

Defence will win us the title – Cech

(26-10-2010) Petr Cech believes Chelsea will retain the EPL title this season because of their strong defence. The Blues have opened up a five lead at the top of the EPL standings already this season. “When you keep a clean sheet you have the biggest chance of winning games,” commented the lanky goalkeeper on Monday. "We are not conceding goals at home, but the most important thing is that we are winning those games.” Added the 28–year-old: "You would swap keeping a clean sheet for winning the game every time, but I am pleased all those clean sheets are helping us to win games. Last season our home record helped us to win the Double, so hopefully it will do the same this season."

United to entice Liverpool star and other red-hot gossip

(26-10-2010) Manchester United are set to make a play for Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina in a sensational £12m swoop. According to a report in the Daily Mirror, Sir Alex fergsuon believes he can land the Spanish international because of the unrest at Anfield. If Reina moved, he would be the first player to move between Liverpool and their bitter rivals in either direction since Phil Chisnall left Old Trafford in 1964. Elsewhere, Inter Milan want to reopen talks with Wesley Sneijder as they fear Manchester United will make a January bid for the midfielder; Arsenal are set to make a renewed attempt to sign giant Werder Bremen defender Per Mertesacker in January; Manchester City are ready to offer £40m to Wolfsburg for striker Edin Dzeko; and Tottenham have joined Arsenal and Chelsea in the race to sign striker Romelu Lukaku from Anderlecht.

Evra backs Roo’s decision

(25-10-2010) Patrice Evra has no problem with Wayne Rooney’s decision to remain at Manchester United despite the England striker’s comments that the squad lacked quality. Rooney, who signed a new five-year contract late last week, must now reintegrate into the Old Trafford dressing room following last week’s saga that saw him almost leave the club. "I know from experience that I could be in his situation one day and so could everyone. We are always open to him if he needs our help," Frenchman Evra told the Sunday Mirror newspaper. "I myself would not play for this club if I knew we were not strong enough to win the league. That is why we all play for Manchester United.” He added: “I agree with the criticism that United have not had the winning mentality this season."

I almost left – Cole

(25-10-2010) Ashley Cole has revealed how he almost left Chelsea in the summer following his high-profile divorce from pop star Cheryl. The 29-year-old defender was widely tipped to join Real Madrid, where he would have been reunited with former Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho. "It was hard for me in my head. It wasn't just about the football, it was more my brain and it was getting too much for me,” the left-back told the Daily Star Sunday. "There were times when it was really hard. I did think about leaving but, of course, when I spoke to Carlo Ancelotti he made it clear he wanted me to stay and loved having me around.” Added the England international: "The players didn't want me to go. I'm glad I stayed. A lot of people were saying, 'You can't leave'.”

Fergie’s high praise for Chicharito’ goals

(25-10-2010) Sir Alex Ferguson has heaped praise on sensational new striker Javier Hernandez. This comes after the young Mexican grabbed both goals in the Red Devils 2-1 win over Stoke City on Sunday, including an 86th minute winner. “It is the kind of goal United score over the years. A late goal met by incredible enthusiasm by the fans. They knew it was an important one,” said Fergie afterwards. "Hopefully we can now kick on. We have some important games between now and Christmas time and we have to make our mark in the league now." Hernandez himself was also pleased with his performance. "I'm working a lot because I want to stay here a long time and win a lot of tournaments. It's an unbelievable opportunity for me to play with the biggest team in the world," added ‘Chicharito’.

Cesc taunts City

(25-10-2010) Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas has taunted Manchester City following the Gunners 3-0 win over the Blues in an ill-tempered match at Eastlands on Sunday. City had defender Dedryck Boyata's red-carded after just five minutes of play. "Even if they were 15 and we were 11 we would still have gone on and won,” commented Fabregas afterwards. "Whoever is in this team, we always want to go forward. The way we played it was very difficult to stop us.” Added the World Cup winner. "We played some outstanding football at times. It's very difficult to stop when you play at that tempo at that level." The win moved Arsenal to within five points of leaders. Samir Nasri, Alex Song and sub Nicklas Bendtner scored for Arsenal.

Red Devils in for German superstar and other red-hot gossip

(25-10-2010) Manchester are set to launch a bid to sign Bayern Munich's German midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger as a long-term replacement for Paul Scholes. United, who are expected to face a fight for the German international from the likes of Real Madrid and Chelsea, value the 26-year-old at £35m. Elsewhere, Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp has denied tapping–up Aston Villa’s England winger Ashley Young, who last week stalled on signing a new deal with the Villans; the Glazer family have promised Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson £100m to spend on new players over the next 12 months; Liverpool are ready to sell Fernando Torres and replace him with £15m-rated Atletico Madrid striker Diego Forlan; Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is ready to raid Barcelona for the new Cesc Fabregas - teenage midfielder Sergi Samper; and Inter Milan and Juventus are ready to swoop for Everton midfielder Steven Pienaar.

Roo’s staggering City offer - report

(24-10-2010) Wayne Rooney turned down a staggering £85m offer from Manchester City to stay with Manchester United this week, claims the Sunday Mirror. According to the British tabloid, the England striker would have received a signing-on fee of £10m plus wages of £75m if had moved over to the blue half of Manchester. This amounted to £288,000 per a week or £15m a year. Rooney, who turns 25 today, cancelled a birthday party and secretly flew out of Britain with wife Coleen on Saturday.

Blues not 100% - Ancelotti

(24-10-2010) Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti claims his side were not at their best on Saturday despite opening up a five point lead at the top of the EPL standings with a 2-0 win over Wolves. Goals from Florent Malouda and Salomon Kalou ensured the three points at Stamford Bridge but Ancelotti felt their midweek Champions League visit to Moscow to play Spartak had taken its toll on his players. "We travelled from Russia and were not 100%," stated Ancelotti afterwards. "We didn't play as well as we wanted but the important thing is the result." He added: "Wolves played very well and it was more difficult than we expected.” Chelsea welcomed back Portuguese right-back Jose Bosingwa for the match after 13 months out with a serious knee injury. Manchester City can close the gap on Chelsea to two points if the beat Arsenal on Sunday.

Fab wants trophies not cash

(24-10-2010) Cesc Fabregas is motivated by a desire to win silverware and not financial gain. In an interview with The Sun newspaper on Saturday, the Arsenal skipper claims he would never join a club purely for the wage offer. "I love the game. I want to win things and would only want to play for a club that has ambition, a desire to compete and the ability to win trophies," he said. "Manchester City can buy anyone they like but you need time to gel as a unit and there is no rule that if you spend £50million on a player he will be an instant success.” Arsenal play Manchester City on Sunday with Fabregas’ comments sure to up the ante. The North Londoners have not won a major trophy since 2005.

Baggies boss staying grounded

(24-10-2010) West Brom manager Roberto Di Matteo is keeping his feet on the ground despite watching his charges surge into fourth place on the EPL standings after a 2-1 win over Fulham on Saturday. The Italian also said he has "absolutely no idea" how long his side can maintain their impressive form. The Baggies are now seven matches unbeaten in all competitions. "We will just try to play game by game, to improve and not concede a goal sometimes for a change! Then we will see at the end of the season where we stand,’ commented Di Matteo afterwards. "We work hard as a team and we enjoy what we do. We try to play football and we believe that is the way to win games. It is quite simple actually.” West Brom were promoted from the Championship last season.

Spurs in for Dutch hardman and other red-hot gossip

(24-10-2010) Bayern Munich hardman Mark van Bommel has emerged as a January transfer window target for Tottenham after his contract talks with the Bundesliga club stalled. The midfielder starred for Holland in the World Cup with his no-nonsense approach. Elsewhere, Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina is in talks with the club over his future with Arsenal watching developments closely; Dutch star Wesley Sneijder could be on the way to Manchester United after his contract talks with Inter Milan broke down; Aston Villa and Sunderland are both competing for Argentine striker Pablo Andres Gonzalez who plays for Italian Serie B side Novara; and Manchester City defender Joleon Lescott claims manager Roberto Mancini reverts to Italian when he wants to get his message across to his players.

Very Rich Roo says sorry

(23-10-2010) Wayne Rooney has apologised to Sir Alex Ferguson and his Manchester United teammates. After a bizarre week which saw the 24-year-old express a desire to leave Old Trafford due to ”a lack of ambition”, Rooney did a complete about-turn on Friday and signed a new £65m five-year contract with the Red Devils. United boss Ferguson confirmed: "Wayne has apologised to me and the players. He will also do so with the supporters, which is important because we've all been hurt by this." Rooney’s new deal is worth a basic £160,000 a week but which could be worth £250,000 with bonuses. Fergie added: "I always feel it's a quality in a person when they say they're sorry and realise they've made a mistake."

Rio relieved Roo saga is over

(23-10-2010) Manchester United skipper Rio Ferdinand is relieved the Wayne Rooney saga has been resolved. He has also told his England team-mate not to worry about Sir Alex Ferguson's transfer policy now that he has signed a new five-year contract. "Obviously it's been an awkward couple of days and the club have done a fantastic job putting this to bed as quickly as we have," Ferdinand told MUTV. "I think Wazza (Rooney) knows he's a Manchester United player, he knows this is where he's best. He's seen players leave and talk about regretting it and he's come to the true way of thinking which is that this is the best place for him.” Added the defender: "Wazza wanted questions answered and he obviously got the right answers, which is good for the club. He's made his mind up that he wants to stay and we're happy as players."

Young’s indecision is no worry for Houllier

(23-10-2010) Aston Villa manager Gerard Houllier is not concerned that star winger Ashley Young has delayed talks over a new contract until next summer. This despite stating earlier this month that he was confident a contract would be signed "sooner rather than later". The 25-year-old Young said on Friday that he wanted to concentrate on his football and any talks over a new deal would not happen until the end of the season. "He loves the fans here, he enjoys his football and, since I've come here, he very much enjoys the way he is progressing," commented Houllier. "I am quite happy with what he has said, that he wants to concentrate on his football and talk about it [his contract] at the end of the season.” Young joined Villa from Watford in 2007.

Passionate Ade’s future is blue

(23-10-2010) Emmanuel Adebayor is committed to Manchester City despite his regular rows with manager Roberto Mancini. The Togo international, who scored a mid-week hat-trick in the Europa League, has been strongly linked with a move away from Eastlands after finding opportunities scarce due to the club’s vast array of attacking resources. "I am committed to the club and the fight to win things and the fans should know that," said the 26-year-old on Friday. "I have had a row with the manager and so has Carlos Tevez. The reason we row is we are all so passionate. We just want to be part of a successful club.” Added the £25m signing: "It's not about money or egos. It's because we all want what is best for the team. These disagreements show we care.” Adebayor looks set to start for City against former club Arsenal this weekend.

Red Devils want Belgian star and other red-hot gossip

(23-10-2010) Manchester United are determined to boost their midfield resources by signing Standard Liege star Steven Defour. The Belgian international, who is also wanted by Liverpool, is valued at £12m and is seen as a replacement for Owen Hargreaves. Elsewhere, Liverpool have set their sights on Tottenham striker Roman Pavlyuchenko, Blackburn Rovers youngster Phil Jones and Manchester City winger Shaun Wright-Phillips; Inter Milan are after Wales and Tottenham midfielder Gareth Bale after his hat-trick against them in the Champions League this week; and Manchester United have again been linked to Udinese winger Alexis Sanchez, Schalke ‘keeper Manuel Neuer and PSV Eindhoven forward Ibrahim Afellay.

Team-mates no longer trust Rooney

(22-10-2010) Patrice Evra and Nemanja Vidic claim their Manchester United team-mates will never trust Wayne Rooney again. This comes after Rooney claimed he was ready to quit the club because there was not enough quality in the squad to challenge for silverware. "If one player in the team does not trust the others, he should not play in the team. I trust everyone, I know we can win,” insisted Evra on Thursday. Red Devils captain Vidic said: "Rooney is going around and talking about the bad way we're playing or something happening around the club with the Glazers. It is not good for the players and not good for the team." Rooney has stalled on signing a contract extension, amidst much speculation that he could join Manchester City or Chelsea.

Red Roy biting the bullet

(22-10-2010) Roy Hodgson has vowed to fight on as Liverpool boss. The 63-year-old has enjoyed a miserable start to his Anfield career, with the Reds taking six points from their opening eight games to sit second from bottom of the EPL. There was speculation before Thursday's goalless Europa League draw with Napoli that he was preparing to stand down. "You read these ridiculous websites that we have and resignation has never once entered my thought and, what's more, never will,” Hodgson told Sky Sports News. "I pride myself on being a bit of a fighter, I pride myself on being able to stand the bad times.” He added: "I've had a lot of good times recently - Barclays Manager of the Year last year, great accolades here and there – and I realise in football you don't get the accolades all the time, sometimes you have to bite the bullet.”

Star Gunners defender on the mend

(22-10-2010) Arsene Wenger is hoping tough defender Thomas Vermaelen will be back in an Arsenal jersey within the next three weeks. The Belgian international has been sidelined since picking up an Achilles injury on international duty six weeks ago. The 24-year-old has missed the Gunners last nine games. "Vermaelen will still need two or three weeks," Wenger told Arsenal TV Online on Thursday. "His injury is not a long-term concern, but at the start we thought it was a question of days and now it is six weeks.” He added: "You can't say it is not a concern at all. We are a bit concerned, but he has had a final treatment that we think could kill it." Better news for the club was that full-back Bacary Sagna (thigh) will return to the squad for Sunday's game at Manchester City.

Ade hoping for pop at Arsenal

(22-10-2010) Emmanuel Adebayor will be hoping his first ever European hat-trick secures him a place in the Manchester City starting line-up to tackle his former club Arsenal this weekend. The Togo international bagged all three goals in City’s 3-1 Europa League win over Lech Poznan on Thursday. "I'm very happy – delighted,” said Adebayor afterwards. "I've not scored this season but have been training and working hard and I'm happy to help the team win the game." City boss Roberto Mancini said the lanky striker would come into consideration for the clash with the Gunners. "It's possible he will play against Arsenal on Sunday because I feel he has been doing well.” Arsenal trail second placed City by three points on the current EPL standings.

Brazilian starlet to replace Roo and other red-hot gossip

(22-10-2010) Sir Alex Ferguson is ready to make a bid for AC Milan youngster Alexandre Pato as a direct replacement for Wayne Rooney. The 21-year-old Pato has dropped down the pecking order this season following the arrival of Robinho and Zlatan Ibrahimovic at the San Siro. The Brazilian will however not come cheaply and Fergie is expected to face a fight with Chelsea for his services. Elsewhere, Aston Villa winger Ashley Young has called a dramatic halt to contract negotiations with the club; Liverpool's new owners plan showdown talks with striker Fernando Torres next week, with Manchester United and Barcelona interested in signing the Spaniard; and Liverpool's new owners plan showdown talks with striker Fernando Torres next week, with Manchester United and Barcelona interested in signing the Spaniard.

Dutch legend to replace Roy

(21-10-2010) Frank Rijkaard's contract as coach of Galatasaray has been terminated by mutual agreement, the Turkish club said on Wednesday. The former Uefa Cup champions are ninth in the Turkish championship after eight games, eight points adrift of leaders Bursaspor. They lost 4-2 against mid-table side Ankaragucu on Sunday. Rijkaard, a legenadry Holland and AC Milan star, was appointed by the Istanbul club in 2009 after leaving Barcelona the previous year. "As a result of mutual talks with technical director Frank Rijkaard, we have decided to part ways," read a Galatasaray statement. Rijkaard's availability has led to speculation that he could replace Roy Hodgson as Liverpool manager. The 63-year-old Englishman has endured a torrid start to his tenure at Anfield and the club are in the relegation zone after almost a quarter of the season.

Roo seeks Blue move

(21-10-2010) Wayne Rooney on Wednesday confirmed that he wants to quit Manchester United with his preferred destination believed to be Chelsea. The England ace also said that money was not the issue and that he just wanted to go to a club with ambition. "I met with David Gill (Manchester United chief executive) last week and he did not give me any of the assurances I was seeking about the future squad. I then told him that I would not be signing a new contract,” said Rooney. "For me it's all about winning trophies." Rooney’s comments led Blues skipper John Terry to say the club would welcome the 24-year-old. "We've got a great squad of players and he would add to that and strengthen the squad. He is the best player in the world for me," added Terry.

Cesc’s warning to City

(21-10-2010) Arsenal skipper Cesc Fabregas has shrugged off Manchester City’s title credentials, claiming the ambitious club cannot buy the spirit of champions. The Gunners head for Eastlands on Sunday on the back of a confidence restoring 5-1 win over Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League on Tuesday. "Everyone chooses their own politics and everyone decides how to win," commented Fabregas on Wednesday. "They have a lot of money. They are taking advantage of it, and that's it. It is not our style, but we respect everyone's decision." Added the Spaniard: "You cannot buy the spirit in one year. You need a few years to get everyone together and to get to know each other well, and it's not easy. You don't make a team in one season or two." City currently trail EPL leaders Chelsea by two points with Arsenal a further three points back.

Blues will be Kings of Europe – Terry

(21-10-2010) John Terry believes Chelsea will be crowned ‘Kings of Europe’ this season. For all their success in England since Roman Abramovich’s purchase of the club, the West Londoners have failed to land Europe’s most prestigious prize – the Champions League. Club captain Terry believes they now stand on the brink of greatness. "It's the one trophy that's eluded myself and the club. We've come so close, we've had our bad luck, our unfortunate games,” said Terry on Wednesday. "The Liverpool semi - was their goal over the line or not? Then there was the final against Manchester United and the semi against Barcelona when we could have had five or six penalties. But you have to make your own luck and dig in deep, and I really do think we have the squad to do that this year." Chelsea currently top Group F with a 100 per cent record.

Blues to break the bank to land Roo and other red-hot gossip

(21-10-2010) Chelsea are set to make Wayne Rooney one of the wealthiest players on the planet. According to a report in the Daily Mail newspaper on Thursday, Blues owner Roman Abramovich has rubber-stamped a deal to take the 24-year-old to Stamford Bridge, and will match or even better Manchester City's £250,000-a-week offer for the Manchester United striker. Elsewhere, Manchester United are lining up £30m-rated Ajax striker Luis Suarez as a replacement for Rooney; Chelsea and Liverpool have been linked with a January move for Bayern Munich’s Argentine centre-back Martin Demichelis; Arsenal are considering a move for Bolton centre-back Gary Cahill as they look to reinforce their defence; and Liverpool are keen to sign Roma's French defender Philippe Mexes, who has fallen out of favour with coach Claudio Ranieri.

No Rooney contact - City

(20-10-2010) Manchester City have had no contact with want-away Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney. The England striker’s future at Old Trafford is in doubt after manager Sir Alex Ferguson confirmed on Tuesday that the 24-year-old could be on his way out of Old Trafford after failing to agree a new contract. "There has been no contact. He's a great player but it's not my problem," said Blues manager Roberto Mancini on Monday. "He is an important player for United and I think he will stay," added Mancini. "I have respect for him, for Ferguson, for United.”

‘If Roo decides to leave, then call me’

(20-10-2010) Jose Mourinho claims he would love to make an offer for Wayne Rooney – as long as it has the blessing of Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson. Mourinho, who is in charge of Real Madrid, has previously stated he believes Rooney will remain at Old Trafford despite his current differences with the club. But should this not happen, the Special One admits he would be interested. "He will stay. He probably wants to leave for some reason but I believe he belongs to Manchester United, he belongs to Manchester United fans, he belongs to Old Trafford. I believe he is going to stay,” commented Mourinho on Tuesday. "But if at the end of the day Manchester United decide that he is to leave, then give me a call. Everybody will be interested.”

We want top spot – Ancelotti

(20-10-2010) Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti is determined to finish top of Champions League Group F. The Blues virtually guaranteed a last 16 place by beating Spartak Moscow 2-0 on Tuesday. They now need only one point from three games to qualify. Ancelotti however is adamant he will not start resting players or experimenting. "We have to stay focused about the next game. We want to finish in first place. The Champions League is important every time you play," commented the Italian. Despite missing leading striker Didier Drogba and midfield dynamo Frank Lampard, the EPL champions won in convincing style in Moscow on Tuesday thanks to first-half goals from Yuri Zhirkov and Nicolas Anelka.

‘Two signings and title is ours’

(20-10-2010) Tottenham are two signings away from being realistic Championship contenders, claims manager Harry Redknapp. Redknapp, who recently celebrated two years in charge at White Hart Lane, led the club to fourth place in the league last season. "We may be one or two big signings away from being a team that could win the title. One or two players in the right positions - and I'm talking about top, top players,” said Redknapp on Tuesday. "If we could do that I think Tottenham are a team that could win the championship in a couple of years.” He added: "This squad is just so full of talent, anyway. Daniel Levy has done a great job backing my judgment and improving the squad that I really believe we're not far away from that level."

United eye ‘Pool star to replace Roo and other red-hot gossip

(20-10-2010) Manchester United are ling up Fernando Torres as Wayne Rooney’s replacement. According to reports, the Red Devils will make the unsettled Liverpool striker their highest paid player if he decides to join them once the Enhglishman has departed. Elsewhere, Tottenham will be forced to spend £10m if they want to sign Dinamo Zagreb youngster Mateo Kovacic; AC Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani has dismissed suggestions the club could re-sign Real Madrid playmaker Kaka; Former Manchester United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy has revealed that he was on the verge of signing for Bayern Munich before his switch to Real Madrid in 2006; and Liverpool are keeping tabs on Barcelona striker Nolito - but the Anfield outfit face a battle with some of Europe's top clubs.

Ancelotti scoffs at Rooney links

(19-10-2010) Carlo Ancelotti has brushed off speculation that Chelsea may be interested in Wayne Rooney. This comes as speculation continues to grow regarding the Manchester United striker’s future. The 24-year-old England ace’s contract expires in the summer of 2012 and rumours are that talks over a new deal have broken down. "I can't really give an answer about this," commented Ancelotti on Monday. "He has some problem at this moment but when a big team has top players like Rooney, they want to keep him." Rooney has been linked with Real Madrid and Barcelona in recent days with some suggesting that United could cash in on him following his dramatic dip in form this season.

Zhirkov determined to justify price tag

(19-10-2010) Chelsea defender Yury Zhirkov is determined to show the club’s fans why they forked out a whopping £18m for his services. The 27-year-old Russian is set to play for the Blues against Spartak Moscow in the Champions League at the Luzhniki Stadium on Tuesday. He left CSKA Moscow for London last year but suffered a knee injury that has restricted him to just 27 appearances for the Blues. "I've not lived up to my full potential because I haven't played too many games in the first team," admitted Zhirkov on Monday. "But I'll try to show more. I'm getting fitter game by game, and I'll try to show more." Regarding reports that he may return to Russia, Zhirkov added: "It is just rumours and speculation. I don't want to leave Chelsea and if the manager doesn't want to sell me, I will stay."

Eduardo ready for emotional Emirates return

(19-10-2010) Eduardo is set for an emotional return to the Emirates when Shakhtar Donetsk tackles Arsenal in the Champions League on Tuesday. The Brazil-born striker left the Gunners for £6m in the summer after falling down the pecking order following the arrival of Marouane Chamakh. Manager Arsene Wenger has admitted that he was sad to see Eduardo leave after he bravely fought back from a horrific broken leg and dislocated ankle at Birmingham in 2008. Eduardo however maintains the time was right for him to move on, but still holds a special affection for the Gunners. "It was great times here with Arsenal, but now I am on the other side and play for Shakhtar," he commented on Monday. "I will give 100 per-cent, am ready to play and will give my all best tomorrow." He added: "I don't think I will celebrate if I score. I respect the club.”

Spurs can topple Serie A giants – Gomes

(19-10-2010) Tottenham goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes believes the club can put one over Serie A giants Inter Milan in the Champions League on Wednesday. Spurs travel to the San Siro following a draw and a win in their opening two games of the competition. "All we need to do is keep going like we have done in our last two Champions League games,” said the Brazilian on Monday. "We know it's a hard game because it's away from home.” He added that the club’s array of goal scoring options would hold them in good steed. "If Peter Crouch is not scoring, Roman Pavlyuchenko is scoring. He showed how cool he was with his penalties against FC Twente. There are goals from midfield too — Tom Huddlestone, Luka Modric, a lot of guys who can score a goal or win a match."

Roo ready to do the unthinkable and other red-hot gossip

(19-10-2010) Wayne Rooney will contemplate a move to Manchester City if Manchester United refuse to match his £200,000-a-week wage demands. According to a report in the Daily Telegraph on Tuesday, the England ace is keeping his options open after talks over a contract extension with the Red Devils stalled in recent weeks and is even prepared to do the unthinkable…move to their bitter cross-town rivals. Elsewhere, Real Madrid are ready to offer Manchester United Lassana Diarra, Karim Benzema and £20m in exchange for Rooney; Chelsea may make a new bid for Liverpool star Fernando Torres in January; Inter Milan are weighing up a £10m bid for Bolton defender Gary Cahill; and Liverpool winger Joe Cole admits that he is out of form and is suffering the worst spell of his career.

Our best performance – Red Roy

(18-10-2010) Roy Hodgson was adamant his Liverpool side deserved more out of their 2-0 defeat in the Merseyside derby at Goodison Park on Sunday. The struggling manager claimed the Reds second half performance was their best in his time at the club. "We suffered at the hands of an early onslaught which you invariably do at Goodison but towards the end of the first half we started to even things out,” insisted the 63-year-old afterwards. "From what I saw I thought we dominated the second half totally.” He added: "I thought the shape of the team was good, the quality of our passing and movement was good. We didn't score goals and Everton did but I refuse to accept that we were in any way outplayed or any way inferior.” The result leaves Liverpool mired in the relegation zone, with one win in eight EPL matches this season.

Moyes smiles broadly after derby win

(18-10-2010) Everton manager David Moyes was a very happy man after watching his side end a run of three successive league defeats in the Merseyside Derby against Liverpool on Sunday. Goals from Tim Cahill and Mikel Arteta gave the Toffees a 2-0 win over their bitter cross-town rivals. "The smile's not come off my face. It's been a long time. I'm really disappointed I've not been able to win more derbies," commented Moyes afterwards. "In the past we've probably lacked the quality to match Liverpool. I don't think we do now. We've got players of real quality who could play for the big clubs.” The result moved Everton up to 11th place on the EPL standings, 10 points behind leaders Chelsea. "Whoever scored the first goal was going to be really important and I think we always looked more likely in the first 20-25 minutes,” added Moyes.

Real threat of Rooney leaving

(18-10-2010) Real Madrid are set to offer Manchester United £50m plus French star Karim Benzema to land Wayne Rooney. According to a report in The Sun newspaper, the Spanish giant’s manager Jose Mourinho is desperate to land Rooney and knows United chief Alex Ferguson is a fan of Frenchman Benzema. "Our problem is who to get rid of if Wayne Rooney comes here,” Madrid managing director Jorge Valdano is quoted as saying. “We have a brilliant strikeforce in Ronaldo and Higuain and now we have added Ozil and Di Maria to complement them." Speculation around Rooney’s future with United has increased recently as he has failed to sign a new contact. Rumours are that the Red Devils do not believe they can justify a £150,000-a-week deal for a player whose stock has fallen dramatically in recent months following a forgettable World Cup and lurid revelations about his private life.

City have championship mentality - Mancini

(18-10-2010) Manchester City are developing a championship winning mentality, according to manager Roberto Mancini. His comments come after the Blues beat Blackpool 3-1 on Sunday to move within two points of EPL leaders Manchester City. Two goals from Carlos Tevez and a stunning strike from David Silva ensured Mancini’s side the three points. "We continue to change our mentality. Chelsea can sometimes win games they don't deserve to and we must do the same,” commented Mancini afterwards. "We didn't play well in the first half but got better in the second half. It's important because you can't play well always.” He added: “It's strong teams who win games when they don't play their best and it's important to keep doing this in the season. Sometimes it is important to win like we did here. We didn't play well.”

Bitter rivals set to fight for Belgian star and other red-hot gossip

(18-10-2010) Liverpool and Manchester United are set to fight it out for for the signature of Steven Defour. The Belgian international midfielder currently plays for Standard Liege and is held in high regard by both Roy Hodgson and Sir Alex Ferguson. Elsewhere, Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney and wife Coleen are rumoured to be open to the possibility of a move away from England, which has alerted La Liga giants Real Madrid and Barcelona; Juventus have indentified Liverpool full-back Glenn Johnson as a January transfer target; Manchester City are preparing a £15m bid for Sunderland midfielder Jordan Henderson; and out-of-favour Manchester City goalkeeper Shay Given could join boyhood heroes Celtic on loan.

Fergie refuses to blame Ed for howler

(17-10-2010) Sir Alex Ferguson refused to blame Edwin van der Sar after Manchester United again dropped crucial points on Saturday. The Dutch ‘keeper spilled a cross to allow Somen Tchoyi to grab West Brom’s equaliser after they had been 2-0 down. "Edwin van der Sar has probably been playing for 25 years and was probably in primary school the last time he made a mistake like that," said Ferguson afterwards. "You have to just wipe it off the slate." Earlier, Javier Hernandez and Nani had put United ahead. In the second half Patrice Evra deflected in a low driven free-kick from Chris Brunt before Tchoyi made the most of Van der Sar's error to equalise. "It is an inexplicable result and obviously frustrating," added Ferguson. United trail EPL leaders Chelsea by five points.

Jack deserved red – Wenger

(17-10-2010) Young Jack Wilshere deserved to get his marching orders on Saturday, claims Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger. The talented midfielder was red-carded in the Gunners 2-1 win over Birmingham for a reckless challenge on Nikola Zigic in the closing stages of the match. "He mistimed his tackle and got a red card, which he deserved," said Wenger afterwards. "Jack has acknowledged he deserved it, but he did not spend his whole game trying to kick people, he was one of the best players on the pitch.” Earlier Arsenal had come from a goal down to grab the points following strikes from Samir Nasri and Marouane Chamakh. The result leaves Arsenal in second place on the standings, five points behind leaders Chelsea.

Red Roy relishing Mersey Derby

(17-10-2010) A positive result in Sunday’s Merseyside Derby will be just the tonic to get Liverpool’s stuttering season off the ground, claims manager Roy Hodgson. The Reds are currently mired in the relegation zone, with a single victory in seven starts. Their wretched form has been made worse by all the wrangling off the pitch over the ownership of the club. Hodgson insists his players can concentrate on football matters now that the club's future has been sorted out. "The international break came at a diabolical time for us. We've had two weeks to chew on the defeat to Blackpool,” commented Hodgson on Saturday. "But having this game against our fiercest rivals is the ideal way to bounce back.” He added: “But I'm dependant on the players I put out and hopefully they can get me the points I need to make me great again!"

No worries for Ancelotti

(17-10-2010) Carlo Ancelotti was unconcerned as Chelsea dropped two points on Saturday. The EPL leaders were held to a goalless draw by Aston Villa but remain five points clear at the top of the table. Manchester City can however reduce their lead to just two points if they beat Blackpool on Sunday. "I am not disappointed about failing to go seven points clear. We knew this would be a difficult game,” said the Italian after the game at Villa Park. "Last year we lost here. This is a good result at this stage of the season, and to be five points clear is good.” With Didier Drogba out through injury, Nicolas Anelka was tasked with providing the firepower up front. But the French striker failed to hit the back of the net, missing a golden chance in the last minute.

Reds eye double signing and other red-hot gossip

(17-10-2010) Liverpool are ready to dip into the transfer market in January and will target two players. According to reports, manager Roy Hodgson is keen on West Brom winger Chris Brunt, who is valued at about £9m, and highly-rated Belgium international Steven Defour, who plays for Standard Liege. Elsewhere, Arsenal are eyeing Charlton's England youth midfielder Diego Poyet - son of former Tottenham and Chelsea star Gus; Tottenham are ready to offer Bolton £15m for England international central defender Gary Cahill; and Manchester United are to step up their interest in Tottenham midfielders Luka Modric and Tom Huddlestone and are willing to offer the likes of Michael Carrick and Anderson in part exchange.

Mancini scoffs at Tevez quit threat

(16-10-2010) Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini has played down Carlos Tevez’s threat to quit football. The little Argentine recently said he had fallen out of love with the game and was looking forward to returning to Argentina without the pressure of high-profile football. Speaking ahead of City’s clash with Blackpool on Saturday, Mancini said: "Carlos is born to play football. I don't know if he will continue to play here for 10 years or whether he goes back to Argentina but he will play football." Mancini conceded that tiredness could be behind Tevez’s comments. "Carlos didn't work from the start of the season. He arrived here in August. After three days he went away with the national team. But he still needed to recover after the World Cup.”

Roo will recover from dickey spell – 'arry

(16-10-2010) Harry Redknapp has urged Sir Alex Ferguson to stick by Wayne Rooney. The Tottenham boss claims it is only a matter of time before the Manchester United striker starts shining again. "Rooney will come back stronger than ever. We'll all look back on it in a year's time,” said Redknapp on Friday. "Everyone goes through dickey spells in their career and he's just having one of those spells where he is not playing as well as he can. A year ago he was as good as anybody in the world.” Added Redknapp: "At any given time he'll go out and get two fantastic goals, win the game for you. When you have got an amazing talent it is difficult to leave him out. You're not going to play him in the reserves. You've just got to let him play his way out of it when he's so good."

Punish dirty players – Wenger

(16-10-2010) Arsene Wenger on Friday waded into the debate over the shocking challenges which have blighted the EPL in recent weeks, calling on football authorities to give dirty players lengthy bans. Asked whether he thought certain players deliberately tried to injure opponents, Wenger said: "Do you think all the injuries are coincidence? It's not God who makes these tackles, it's the players. Everyone knows what I think. When I spoke out two months ago I got stick from the whole country. But I stick to what I said then.” He added that it was time that the punishment meted out fitted the crime. "We have to make sure the players know when they go into a game that if they do something dirty they are going to get punished. Football has a responsibility to punish people on video who do dirty things which the referee has not seen.”

New Reds owner vows to turn it all around

(16-10-2010) New Liverpool owner John W Henry has vowed to turn the club’s fortunes around. Henry's New England Sports Ventures group sealed a £300m takeover of the Merseysiders on Friday. "First and foremost, we are committed to winning. We have a history of winning and want LFC fans to know this approach is what we intend to bring to this great club,” vowed the owner of the Boston Red Sox. "The Red Sox are the second-highest spending club in Major League Baseball and we're here to win, so we will do whatever is necessary." This will come as music to the ears of the Reds long suffering fans who have witnessed the once proud club slip into the relegation zone after a disastrous start to the season. Commented Liverpool manager Roy Hodgson: "I know I can turn it around but I need the patience and support to do it.”

Red Devils to fight City for Dutch star and other red-hot gossip

(16-10-2010) Bitter rivals Manchester United and Manchester City are set to fight it out for the services of Dutch star Wesley Sneijder. The midfielder, who was one of the undoubted stars of the recent World Cup, has failed to agree a new contract with current club Inter Milan. This has alerted the two Manchester clubs who have both long admired the 26-year-old former Real Madrid and Ajax star. Elsewhere, Manchester United are also eyeing a £22m deal for young Brazilian pair Henrique, a centre-back at Barcelona, and midfielder Douglas Costa of CSKA Moscow; Liverpool are planning a move to sign former Manchester United striker Giuseppe Rossi from Spanish side Villarreal; Chelsea are interested in signing Sunderland midfielder Jordan Henderson; Stuttgart’s Russian striker Pavel Pogrebynak could be on his way to Tottenham in a £10m deal; and Arsenal are readying to sign Everton midfielder Steven Pienaar.

Becks snubs England farewell game

(15-10-2010) David Beckham’s career looks to be over after the former Manchester United star formally snubbed a farewell game. The 35-year-old was set to be waved off in next month's friendly against France at Wembley, provided his LA Galaxy team had been knocked out of the MLS play-offs. But after talks with England manager Fabio Capello he has decided against it. Beckham returned to action recently after an Achilles injury that kept him out for most of the year. He won the last of his 115 caps a year ago and only wants to be selected on merit, not sentiment - which he has made clear to Capello. He said recently: "I've always said I won't retire from playing for my country, whether I never get picked again, play one more game or 10 more."

Good news for Liverpool

(15-10-2010) Liverpool have been buoyed by the news that Dirk Kuyt should be fit in three to four weeks. The hard-working midfielder landed awkwardly during Holland's Euro 2012 qualifying victory over Sweden on Tuesday. Some reports claimed he could be out until the new year. Reds boss Roy Hodgson however has played down that speculation. "The initial rumours coming out of Holland were that it was going to be a really long injury, maybe months. But our doctor and our sports science people are much more optimistic,” said Hodgson on Thursday. "They think it is more likely to be one month - or if we are lucky three weeks. He seriously twisted his ankle with ligament damage and we are going to miss him for some matches that's for sure."

Gunners welcome back duo

(15-10-2010) Cesc Fabregas looks unlikely to join Theo Walcott and Nicklas Bendtner in the Arsenal line-up for Saturday's clash with Birmingham. The inspirational Gunners skipper has been battling a hamstring injury, while Walcott and Bendtner have recovered from ankle ligament damage and a niggling groin problem respectively. "We have some good news because for a while we have had only bad news," Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger told Arsenal TV Online on Thursday. "Nicklas Bendtner is back in the squad and let's not forget that since last November he has produced here and there, but never had a consistent presence because of his injuries.” Added Wenger: "Apart from the fact he went to the World Cup we have not seen the real Nicklas Bendtner for a long, long time. He is the closest he has been to his best for a while.”

Cesc slams lack of ‘winning mentality’

(15-10-2010) Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas has slammed his team-mates for lacking a "winning mentality". The World Cup winner has been sidelined for almost a month after picking up a hamstring injury in the 1-1 draw with Sunderland. Arsenal have lost back-to-back EPL games since then - going down 3-2 to West Brom and losing 2-0 to Chelsea. “A winning mentality is missing,” insisted the 23-year-old on Thursday. "I'm very comfortable here, I like the club, lead the team and play football but we need to start winning titles because we have a wealth of quality."

Special One rules out Roo move and other red-hot gossip

(15-10-2010) Jose Mourinho has ruled out a bid for Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney in the January transfer window. "We have an excellent squad with players who give me a lot of confidence and I don't want any players in the winter market," said the Real Madrid boss on Thursday. Elsewhere, Sevilla striker Luis Fabiano says he will "seek a solution in January" if he does not get more first-team chances, with Tottenham waiting in the wings to snap up the Brazilian; Anders Lindegaard says he is "shocked" to have been linked with a move to Manchester United, after United goalkeeping coach Eric Steele reportedly watched the Denmark international in action for Norwegian club side Aalesunds FK; and Arsenal's Cesc Fabregas says Real Madrid tried to sign him in the summer.

United fear losing Rooney

(14-10-2010) Manchester United are starting to fear that Wayne Rooney will not sign a new contract. Rooney, under-fire following revelations about his personal life, recently defied United boss Sir Alex Ferguson by claiming he was wrong to suggest an ankle injury had kept him out of action. "I've had no problems with my ankle all season," insisted the 24-year-old after England drew 0-0 with Montenegro on Tuesday. The out-of-form striker has missed the Red Devil’s last two matches following allegations he slept with a prostitute. His current contract expires at the end of next season and United indicated six months ago they were keen for him to sign a new deal. However, Rooney has asked for talks to be put on hold. United are believed to be willing to offer Rooney £150,000 per week (up from £90,000) but are fearful Real Madrid may top that.

Rio slams German ref

(14-10-2010) England captain Rio Ferdinand slammed German referee Manuel Grafe's performance after England’s embarrassing draw against minnows Montenegro in Tuesday’s European Championship qualifier. The Manchester United star insisted Grafe should have awarded the Three Lions two second-half penalties, one for a foul on Ashley Young in the box and the other when the ball appeared to hit the arm of visiting defender Milan Jovanovic. "It was just disappointing really,” commented Ferdinand afterwards. "You expect the referees to be able to be up with play and performing at the highest level. We just didn't get that.” He added: “We had two really good shouts for a penalty and we didn't get them." Ferdinand’s comments were echoed by vice-captain Steven Gerrard. "I saw the handball incident very clearly and the referee was really close,” insisted the Liverpool star.

Stevie G hails high court verdict

(14-10-2010) Steven Gerrard has hailed a high court ruling that paves the way for a takeover of Liverpool. On Wednesday the club’s unpopular current owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett failed in their bid to block a possible takeover by New England Sports Ventures, the owners of the Boston Red Sox. Gerrard now hopes the whole club can move forward, starting with this weekend's Merseyside derby at Everton. "It's a fantastic result," Gerrard told the club's official website. "It seems things are nearly sorted off the pitch so we need to start getting them right on it by getting three points at Goodison on Sunday.” He added: “I know how frustrated the fans have been and I can understand their feelings. But we've all suffered in this, especially the supporters, and now it's time for us all to pull together and help move the club forward."

Improve or be gone – Carra

(14-10-2010) Jaime Carragher believes there will be a mass player clear-out at Liverpool if the stuttering club don’t get things right on the pitch very soon. The Merseysiders are currently stuck in the relegation zone following their worst start to a season in over 50 years. The Reds face Everton on Sunday in what is shaping up to be the most crucial Mersey Derby in years. "We have changed the manager, we have changed the board and, if things don't change now, then the players will go too,” insisted the 32-year-old defender on Wednesday. "Everything else has changed, it is just the players who have stayed the same. I just hope we can look forward now."

Red Devils in for Dutch star and other red-hot gossip

(14-10-2010) Manchester United are reportedly hot on the heels of PSV Eindhoven midfielder Ibrahim Afellay. The 24-year-old Dutch international has not signed a new contract so is available on a free transfer next summer. Elsewhere, Arsenal are keeping an eye on Athletic Bilbao goalkeeper Gorka Iraizoz after the 29-year-old admitted he wants a move away from the La Liga side; Aston Villa are chasing France Under-21 international defender Franck Tabanou; Manchester City striker Emmanuel Adebayor is ready to submit a transfer request - unless he is guaranteed regular first-team football by City boss Roberto Mancini; and Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson is considering an £18m move for Lyon’s French international midfielder Yoann Gourcuff.

Capello vows to fight on

(13-10-2010) Fabio Capello saw the upside despite watching his England team stutter to a disappointing Euro 2012 qualifying draw against Montenegro at Wembley on Tuesday. The result leaves England second in Group G, three points behind Montenegro but with a game in hand."I am a fighter. It is one game,” commented Capello afterwards. "I think we are a good team but their keeper played well. This is football." He also praised the opposition. "You have to respect little countries. They have good players. At this moment they are psychologically at a high moment having won three games. This [Montenegro] team is a good team at the moment. They are a compact team, they work a lot. They are technically good.”

Anderson in United quit threat

(13-10-2010) Manchester United star Anderson has hinted that he may be on his way out of Old Trafford. The 22-year-old Brazilian has played just four times this season after spending most of last campaign on the sideline with a serious knee injury. To make matters worse he had a blazing row with Red Devils manager Sir Alex Ferguson on the pre-season tour of the US. On Tuesday he said: "I am good in Manchester but I'd like to return to Portugal and my preference would be Porto." Anderson joined United for £17.5m from Porto three years ago but has failed to hit the heights predicted by many.

More bad news for Liverpool

(13-10-2010) Just when Liverpool fans could have done without any more suffering, comes the news that Dirk Kuyt and Daniel Agger were both injured on international duty on Tuesday. This gives Reds manager Roy Hodgson increased worries ahead of the Merseyside derby against Everton on Sunday. Kuyt looks to have picked up the more serious knock, limping off in the 29th minute of Holland’s match against Sweden with what appeared to be a bad ankle injury. Agger, making his comeback from a groin problem, lasted only 39 minutes of Denmark's game against Cyprus. According to the Liverpool website, both players will be assessed on their return to Melwood before any decision is made about the weekend.

Gunners set to welcome back three stars

(13-10-2010) Arsenal could welcome back three key players for the weekend clash with Birmingham. Inspirational Gunners skipper Cesc Fabregas, pacy winger Theo Walcott and ace striker Nicklas Bendtner are reportedly back all in full training after injuries and hoping to play a part against Birmingham at the Emirates. Meanwhile, Robin Van Persie is also not far from a return. The Dutch striker has been out since August with an ankle problem. Arsenal currently lie fourth on the EPL standings, seven points behind leaders Chelsea.

Another stopper linked to United and other red hot gossip

(13-10-2010) The rumour mill is really kicking in regarding a successor to ageing Edwin van der Sar at Manchester United. The Red Devils were on Tuesday linked to Danish glovesman Anders Lindegaard in January. The 26-year-old currently plays for Norwegian side Aalesunds. In recent weeks United have also been linked to Schalke stopper Manual Neuer and Juventus ‘keeper Gianluigi Buffon; Fiorentina and Sampdoria are leading the chase to sign Aston Villa striker John Carew; and Chelsea midfielder Yossi Benayoun will travel to Finland for an operation on his torn Achilles – and will be operated on at the clinic where David Beckham received treatment.

No sympathy for Roo

(12-10-2010) Montenegro coach Zlatko Kranjcar has little sympathy for Wayne Rooney and his personal problems. The England ace has been a pale shadow of himself this season following tabloid revelations that he romped with a prostitute while his wife was pregnant. He has also battled to overcome an ankle injury and has only scored a single goal all campaign. Kranjcar, whose team clash with England in a Euro 2012 qualifier on Tuesday, believes Rooney only has himself to blame. "I am sure it is very difficult for Rooney - but he got himself into this situation," said Kranjcar on Monday. "He has big difficulties handling it psychologically. There is a lot of pressure on the player, so he is in a very difficult situation right now." He did however add: "I believe the chance to play tomorrow will help his self-confidence and restore his game."

Captain, my captain!

(12-10-2010) Rio Ferdinand has been reinstated as England's captain for the Euro 2012 qualifier with Montenegro at Wembley on Tuesday. The Manchester United defender reclaims the armband from Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard. The 31-year-old Ferdinand has not featured for the Three Lions since injuring his knee on the eve of the World Cup. He is expected to partner Manchester City’s Joleon Lescott in the heart of England’s defence after regular partner John Terry withdrew from the squad with a back injury. "I spoke with Steven on Sunday evening and explained why Rio will be captain against Montenegro. He understood everything - he knows the rules,” said manager Fabio Capello on Monday. Meanwhile, Sunderland striker Darren Bent has been ruled out with a groin injury picked up in training on Monday with Peter Crouch likely to start up front alongside Wayne Rooney.

One last go for Hargreaves

(12-10-2010) Owen Hargreaves has confirmed that his latest comeback bid will be his last. The 29-year-old Manchester United star has not played for the club for over two years due to a series of chronic knee injuries. The Canadian-born England international has twice been close to returning in that time only to be hit by major setbacks. He confirmed on Monday that he will retire if his latest comeback does not succeed. "Owen has done everything to come back but the pain and effort has been huge,” revealed a friend of the player. "He has decided to give it one last big push but if this doesn't work that will probably be it." Hargreaves has made just 25 starts for United since a £17m move from Bayern Munich in 2007. It is hoped he will start in the Carling Cup clash with Wolves on October 26.

Ivanovic going nowhere – agent

(12-10-2010) Chelsea are set to offer versatile defender Branislav Ivanovic a new contract, according to his agent. The 26-year-old, who joined the Blues from Lokomotiv Moscow in January 2008, has been linked with a move to Juventus in recent months, where he would play alongside compatriot Milos Krasic. However, Ivanovic's agent Vlado Borozan on Monday vehemently denied this. "There is no truth regarding contact between Ivanovic and Juve," Borozan told Tuttomercatoweb.com. "Those rumours are without foundation. I believe the link may have been made due to the fact that my partner (Dejan) Joksmovic is Krasic's agent and that Ivanovic's contract will expire in June 2011. But the lad is about to sign a contract extension with Chelsea so I really don't think he will be moving away."

Reds stars to exit and other red hot gossip

(12-10-2010) Liverpool are likely to receive bids for superstars Pepe Reina, Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard should the once legendary club fall further from grace in the EPL. According to reports, Arsenal are ready to make a play for Reina while Manchester City are keeping a steady eye on Torres and AC Milan are interested in Gerrard. Elsewhere, Arsenal have beaten Chelsea and Real Madrid to the signature of Anderlecht's 17-year-old striker Romelu Lukaku; Barcelona are getting ready to make a £12m bid for Arsenal midfielder Denilson during the January transfer window; AC Milan striker Alexandre Pato has told Manchester City and Chelsea they have no chance of signing him - as he would only quit the Italian club for Barcelona; and Manchester United are believed to be considering a move for Lyon’s Brazilian winger Michel Bastos in the January transfer window.

‘City are very real title contenders’

(11-10-2010) Manchester City are very real title contenders this season, claims Manchester United veteran Gary Neville. The Blues moved above the Red Devils last weekend after a home win over Newcastle that followed their bitter cross-town rival’s failure to overcome Sunderland. "Last weekend's results mean we are now behind Manchester City in the league, which hasn't happened too often in the past 20 years," Neville told the Sunday Times of Malta. "There is no doubt that we have to see City as major challengers this season along with Chelsea.” He added: "At the moment, City and Chelsea are above us and the money that City have spent, and the quality and depth in both squads, means we have to see them both as rivals for the title."

De Jong hasn’t apologised – Ben Arfa’s agent

(11-10-2010) Manchester City midfielder Nigel de Jong has yet to apologise to Hatem Ben Arfa for the horror tackle that broke the Newcastle winger’s leg. According to Ben Arfa’s agent, the Frenchman will be sidelined until March 2011, denying him the opportunity to make the most of his loan spell at St James' Park. "De Jong hasn't been in touch at all," said Simon Stanford. "Brian Marwood, who is a top-class professional person, sent a note from Manchester City saying everyone wished him a speedy recovery and sent a gift, but that's it.” He added: "The facts of the matter are he hasn't been in touch and he hasn't apologised. Brian Marwood has been in touch, but not De Jong."

Small boost for Reds

(11-10-2010) Liverpool have received a much-needed boost with the news that star striker Fernando Torres is close to full fitness. The World Cup winner limped out of last weekend's embarrassing home loss to Blackpool with a groin strain but has made a quicker than expected recovery and looks likely to feature in next weekend’s Merseyside derby against Everton. The Reds, who are currently mired in the relegation zone following their worst start to a season in over 50 years, only have youngster David Ngog as an alternative striker to Torres. Roy Hodgson and his management team are therefore desperate for the Spaniard to be fit as soon as possible.

Tevez in sensational retirement rant

(11-10-2010) Carlos Tevez claims he is seriously considering retiring from football. The Manchester City skipper on Sunday told the News of the World newspaper that he hates being a pro footballer and is lacking motivation. "I have been playing many games this season, and my body is feeling it. I am tired,” he is quoted as saying. "I started to play when I was really young and I have always fought so much but now I'm feeling the effort." Added the 26-year-old: "I'm an old guy now, and I started to think about some stuff. For example, I am less tolerant as a person today than I was a few years ago. Then I think - what happens if I quit football as long as I am okay in my life? When I talk about quitting, I mean quitting football, not just the national team.”

‘Rio and Stevie G are both deserving skippers’

(11-10-2010) Joleon Lescott has tried to diffuse the battle for the England captaincy by claiming both Rio Ferdinand and Steven Gerrard are deserving leaders of the Three Lions. Gerrard has captained the side ever since Ferdinand suffered a serious knee injury on the eve of the World Cup. But with the Manchester United star now fully fit, debate is raging on who should wear the skipper’s armband for Tuesday’s Euro 2012 qualifier with Montenegro. "It doesn't matter. Everyone in the team and the squad are established professionals, so if it is Rio or Steven it doesn't really matter. We are just focused on getting three points,” the Manchester City defender said on Sunday. Added Lescott: "They are both great captains and well-established and experienced players, so I don't think it will hinder any performances whoever is the captain."

King Kenny refuses to rule out return

(10-10-2010) Liverpool legend Kenny Dalglish has refused to rule out a return to management. The Scot, who was in charge of the Reds from 1986-91, was overlooked for the club's managerial position in the summer in favour of Roy Hodgson. But following Liverpool's worst start to a season in over 50 years, speculation is growing of a return to the Anfield hotseat for Dalglish. "First of all you need to be asked, second it needs to be suitable if you were asked," Dalglish told Reuters when asked if he wanted to manage for the first time since 2000. "Because you don't say 'No', people think you say 'Yes' but that is not necessarily true either. I wouldn't say anything other than I am really happy at the moment. There is nothing definitive either way."

Reds want four new players

(10-10-2010) Liverpool are looking to bolster their ailing squad with four new signings in January. According to the club's chief scout Jakob Friis-Hansen, the club's scouting network is spanning the whole of Europe to find new talent. "The results are now important in Liverpool, it is first priority to get four prominent players in the next window for the first team. Players who can go into the starting line-up," commented Friis-Hansenon on Saturday. "Roy (Hodgson) will hopefully get some money to work with. I will work in Italy, Germany, France, Belgium and Holland and will this year also be going to Spain for Liverpool and it is solely for the first team." He added: "I can hopefully go out and look at players in the highest price category at a time. But we will see."

Chilean sensation dreams of Red Devils move

(10-10-2010) In-demand Chilean striker Alexis Sanchez dreams of playing for Manchester United. Currently on the books of Serie A team Udinese, he has issued a come-and-get-me plea to the Red Devils, who are known to have been keeping a close eye on the 22-year-old in recent months. "United? Obviously I'd like to play for a club like that," Sanchez told Spanish newspaper As on Saturday. "All this is dealt with by my agent, as he is the one who talks to the clubs. I am not interested in knowing anything until negotiations are at an advanced stage." Meanwhile, United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has admitted looking at Sanchez after his impressive World Cup. "We have looked at Sanchez and he has impressed us, as have other players," admitted Fergie a few weeks ago.

Magpies tracking Spurs star

(10-10-2010) Newcastle are preparing a move for out-of-favour Totteham midfielder Niko Kranjcar. The Croatian, such an influential figure for Spurs last season, has struggled to make the starting lineup this campaign following the arrival of Dutch star Rafael Van der Vaart. The Magpies now want him to sign a pre-contract deal so that he can move to St James Park for nothing next summer.The 26-year-old Kranjcar moved to White Hart Lane from Portsmouth in 2009. Everton are also interested in signing him and could offer Steven Pienaar as bait. The South African is currently running down his contract, despite being offered a new £50,000 a week deal by the Toffees.

Fergie in for German stopper and other red-hot gossip

(10-10-2010) Manchester United are lining up 24-year-old German international Manuel Neuer as a replacement for Edwin van der Sar. According to reports, Sir Alex Ferguson is prepared to shell out £10m for the Schalke star, who he views as one of the brightest goalkeeping talents in Europe. Elsewhere, Stoke want to sign Chelsea defender Michael Mancienne, currently on loan at Wolves, on a permanent basis in January; Manchester City are poised to make a £13m move for Lyon defender Aly Cissokho; and Manchester United chief executive David Gill insists there is no pressure to sell star players such as striker Wayne Rooney, despite the club announcing losses of £83.6m.

Wes in the Brown stuff

(09-10-2010) Wes Brown’s days as a Manchester United player could be numbered after a ‘screaming row’ with manager Sir Alex Ferguson. According to a report by The Sun newspaper, the bust-up happened on the Red Devils pre-season tour of the USA following a night out organised by the players. The 31-year-old defender has subsequently not started a league game this season although he did start the Champions League clash with Rangers and the Carling Cup third-round tie with Scunthorpe. Brown, whose career has been blighted by several serious injuries, joined United in 1996 and has made 349 appearances for the club. He has also won 23 England caps. He now fears been sold in January.

Ed laughs off retirement rumours

(09-10-2010) Edwin van der Sar has scoffed at reports of his imminent retirement. This comes after United goalkeeping coach Eric Steele commented on Thursday: "I think Ed has made his mind up and said this is his last year." But in an interview with www.sport-promotion.nl, the 39-year-old insisted this was not the case. "That's complete nonsense. I do not know where this story comes from but it is nonsense,” he said. "I don't yet know whether I will stop or continue after this season. Only in the course of this season will I think about it. Then I will decide and not before. For now I keep my focus on United." Van der Sar moved to Old Trafford from Fulham in 2005 after earlier spells at Juventus and Ajax.

Get on with it - Reds legend

(09-10-2010) Liverpool legend Ian Rush has called on the players to stop blaming their woeful form on the club’s off-field troubles. "It is easy to use that as an excuse but when I played we just got on with the game,” said the former ace striker on Friday. The Merseysiders are currently stuck in the relegation zone as owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett prepare to fight a High Court battle to prevent a £300m takeover by New England Sports Ventures', the company that owns the Boston Red Sox. Rush, who scored 346 goals in 660 appearances for the club, believes all the uncertainty off the field is not to blame for the team's poor start. "It's easy to criticise when you are not doing well. You can easily blame everyone but we are all in it together - the owners the management, the players and the supporters.”

Malouda’s Samba dream

(09-10-2010) Chelsea star Florent Malouda dreams of finishing his career in Brazil. The 30-year-old Frenchman said on Friday that he hoped to star for his country at the 2014 World Cup finals in the South American country before staying on to play in their league. "I will most certainly finish my European career at Chelsea and the end of the horizon will be 2014 with the World Cup,” commented Malouda. "After that, to finish things off, it would be a buzz for me to play in Brazil, the land of football, at a club like Flamengo or Vasco de Gama.” He added: “It's something you should do once in your life to play in a Rio derby or a top match like that. Those are the kind of atmospheres that are so tempting." Malouda moved to Chelsea from Lyon for £13.5million in 2007.

Italian legend not joining United and other red-hot gossip

(09-10-2010) Juventus have dismissed rumours that Manchester United are lining up a bid for their goalkeeper Gianliugi Buffon. According to reports, the Red Devils view the Italian international as a replacement for Edwin van der Sar, who turns 40 this month. “I deny any negotiation with United. Buffon is a Juventus player," Juventus general director Giuseppe Marotta told Tuttosport on Friday. Elsewhere, Manchester City have reportedly signed 19-year-old former Barcelona midfielder Gai Assulin, after he impressed on trial; Aston Villa are lining up a move for Paris Saint-Germain striker Guillaume Hoarau, who has 23 goals in 50 games for the French club; Manchester United target, Pepe, has challenged Real Madrid to sort out his future or risk losing him on a free transfer at the end of next season; and Everton's Phil Neville says he is keen to move into management when he finishes playing.

I’ll persuade Torres – Red Sox chief

(08-10-2010) The man behind the proposed takeover of Liverpool has promised to do everything he can to persuade star striker Fernando Torres to stay at Anfield. John Henry, who owns the Boston Red Sox baseball team, is currently fighting to wrestle control of the Merseyside club from current owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett. On Thursday he said that if his £300m move was successful, he would do all that he could to persuade Torres to remain a Reds player. The 26-year-old Spaniard has battled for form all season and has cut a frustrated figure is recent weeks as the once proud club’s form floundered. Liverpool are currently in the relegation zone after their worst start to a season in over 50 year.

Rio sweating over England place

(08-10-2010) Rio Ferdinand is sweating over selection for Fabio Capello’s England team, let alone the captaincy. The 31-year-old Manchester United star has not played for England since before the World Cup and has only just returned to the Red Devils team following injury. But with Everton centre-back Phil Jagielka impressing in the Three Lions past two Euro 2012 qualifying wins, it looks likely that Capello will stick with him and retain Steven Gerrard as captain for the clash with Montenegro at Wembley on Tuesday. Jagielka was the only centre-half to play both the full 90 minutes in the 4-0 win over Bulgaria and the 3-1 success in Switzerland last month. However, while Ferdinand may be a little short of match fitness his return to the United line-up has seen the Old Trafford side conceded zero goals in the two matches in which he has played.

‘Spending criticism motivates City players’

(08-10-2010) All the criticism and jibing about Manchester City’s big-spending is motivating the club’s star-studded squad to succeed, claims defender Joleon Lescott. The Eastlands club have spent an astonishing £326m on players since their takeover by Sheikh Mansour two years ago. "We're all dedicated, and we're also using as fuel the fact that people from outside the club don't want us to succeed," Lescott told the club's website mcfc.co.uk on Thursday. "Everyone was crying out for so long for someone to break into the top four. We're doing it, but somehow it's like 'you're doing it the wrong way'. We just have to take it with a pinch of salt and repay the people who showed faith in us." City currently lie second on the EPL standings after an impressive start to the season. Lescott joined City from Everton for £24m in August 2009.

Chelsea set to welcome back star defender

(08-10-2010) Chelsea star Jose Bosingwa is on the verge of a return to action after almost a year out through injury. The Portugal defender has not featured for the club since damaging knee ligaments against Aston Villa in October 2009. But now the £16m full-back expects to be fit for the Blues' next game - ironically against Villa a week tomorrow, virtually a year after his initial injury. The 28-year-old Bosingwa joined Chelsea from Porto and was an ever-present for the Blues before being cruelly cut down by knee knack.

Barca in for City star and other red-hot gossip

(08-10-2010) Carlos Tevez is being lined up by La Liga giants Barcelona who view the plucky Argentine as the perfect foil for his international teammate Lionel Messi. According to reports, Barca believe the time is right to make a move for Tevez following allegations of a bust-up between him and City manager Roberto Mancini. Elsewhere, Chelsea and Arsenal are set to fight it out for unsettled Bayern Munich midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger; Tottenham are back in the hunt for Sevilla striker Luis Fabiano after the Brazilian fell out of favour at the Andalusian side; Schalke goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has left the door open to a move to Manchester United after describing reports that he had already agreed a move to Bayern Munich as "humbug"; and Aston Villa are mulling over an £8m bid for out-of-favour Tottenham midfielder Niko Kranjcar in the upcoming January transfer window.

Carragher welcomes Reds takeover bid

(07-10-2010) Jamie Carragher has welcomed news of the proposed takeover of the Liverpool Football Club. On Wednesday New England Sports Ventures (NESV), the parent company of the Boston Red Sox baseball team, had a £300m bid accepted by the Anfield board. Veteran defender Carragher believes it would be a good move for the Merseyside and hopes it will happen as soon as possible so players can focus on lifting the club oout of the relegation zone. "Everyone knows it'll be a good thing for the club,” Carragher told. Liverpoolfc.tv "Hopefully it will be sorted sooner rather than later and we can start looking forward on the pitch and start improving results, which is what we need to do."

Fergie slams ‘wasteful’ United

(07-10-2010) Sir Alex Ferguson has taken a swipe at his players for lacking killer instinct. The Red Devils have struggled to close out matches this season, dropping a host of points that leaves them trailing EPL leaders Chelsea by five points after just seven games. "This present team does not kill off sides as well as they should - that's the one area where I would like to see an improvement,” said the fiery Scot in a rare display of public criticism. "At Fulham we missed a penalty with three minutes to go, which would have made it 3-1 and put the game out of sight. We threw points away there.And then it was even worse at Everton, where we threw away two goals in injury time. That's unthinkable.We were wasteful and ultimately paid the price."

Benyaoun facing lengthy absence

(07-10-2010) Yossi Benayoun could face "several months" on the sidelines due to a ruptured Achilles tendon. According to reports, the Chelsea midfielder underwent an MRI scan after complaining of pain in his ankle and was diagnosed with a torn Achilles tendon on Tuesday. "I hope to help the team, but unfortunately this is not a simple injury," Benayoun told the Israel Football federation website on Wednesday. "The team and I will cross our fingers. "After more tests I will know exactly what the continuing treatment will be." Benayoun joined the Blues from Liverpool on a free transfer at the beginning of the season but has hardly featured for the Stamford Bridge side.

Roo will fire shortly – Crouch

(07-10-2010) England star Peter Crouch has backed under-fire striker Wayne Rooney to shine again. Rooney has struggled for form this season for both Manchester United and the Three Lions Tottenham star Crouch now believes it is only a matter of time before the 24-year-old shows his true class once again. "He's a top-class player and I'm sure he'll come good this season, without a doubt. He's a fantastic player and someone I always enjoy playing with,” commented Crouch on Wednesday. "There's no doubt he'll score goals and hopefully he'll do it against Montenegro." England play Montennegro in a Euro 2012 qualifier next week. Rooney has scored a single goal all season – from the penalty spot!

City set for EPL raid and other red-hot gossip

(07-10-2010) Manchester City are planning a raid on three of their EPL rivals. According to reports, the Blues want to sign young striker Andy Carroll from Newcastle, midfielder Gareth Bale from Tottenham and Chelsea left-back Ashley Cole. Elsewhere, Manchester United will bid for Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon next summer; Liverpool are planning a move for Manchester City striker Roque Santa Cruz and winger Shaun Wright-Phillips in January; Everton will block Wolfsburg's bid to take defender Johnny Heitinga away from Goodison Park; and Manchester United striker Federico Macheda has said he will not be joining former club Lazio on loan in January.

Samba sensation covets Chelsea move

(06-10-2010) Brazilian sensation Neymar dreams of playing for Chelsea. The 18-year-old is the hottest property in South American football at the moment, with the Blues having already failed with a £25m bid to bring him to Stamford Bridge from Santos.But the teenager still has his eyes on a move to West London. "To play for Chelsea would be an honour. Everything they have to offer is attractive to me,” Neymar told The Sun newspaper in an exclusive interview. "They have big players, they are in big competitions, they have a strong squad and I like the way they play.” He added: "Top players want to be part of something like that. I'm no different. But I'm happy at Santos. If I left it wouldn't be because Santos isn't a good place to be but only because the Premier League is a higher level.”

‘Red Devils wanted me’

(06-10-2010) EPL bad boy Craig Bellamy claims Manchester United tried to sign him. The Welsh striker is currently on the books of Championship team Cardiff City on loan from Manchester City. Tottenham were believed to be hot on his heels in the summer but City refused to allow him to join one of their main rivals. But, according to Bellamy, Spurs were not the only club interested in his services."Someone else came in from above Tottenham which would have caused a few stirs,” revealed the 31-year-old on Tuesday. "If I'd said I wanted to go there for one minute, my life in Manchester would have been really tough. It would've been a miracle had it come off.” He added: "I tried to work out whether to hold out for that one or go home. But because of the other club's interest, City panicked and pushed the Cardiff thing through."

Chelsea suffer defensive blow

(06-10-2010) Chelsea suffered a setback on Tuesday with the news that star central defender Alex will be sidelined for three weeks. The Brazilian, who fired home a sensational long-range free-kick against Arsenal over the weekend, picked up a thigh strain in the closing stages of the 2-0 victory. The 28-year-old will miss his country’s matches against Iran on Thursday and Ukraine next Monday. He is also likely to be absent for Chelsea's visits to Aston Villa and Spartak Moscow on 16 and 19 October. Alex was signed by the Blues from PSV Eindhoven in 2007. He has been first-choice alongside captain John Terry in the heart of the Stamford Bridge team’s defence this season.

Spurs eyeing World Cup star

(06-10-2010) Tottenham are keeping an eye on Atletico Madrid ace striker Diego Forlan after the Uruguayan sensation indicated that he may return to the EPL. Spurs were linked with a move for Forlan in the summer. "Everybody says things, that maybe you don't want to go back,” said Forlan on Tuesday. “The time I had in England was great and if I had the chance to go back I'd be really happy." The 31-year-old previously played for Manchester United but was shown the door after a disappointing two-and-a-half years at Old Trafford. His star has subsequently shone extremely brightly in Spain where he has starred for Atletico and Villareal, while also being named Player of the Tournament at this year’s World Cup.

Real star wants EPL return and other red-hot gossip

(06-10-2010) Real Madrid midfielder Lassana Diarra is keen on a return to England in January. This has alerted a number of EPL clubs, most notably Manchester United and Tottenham. The French international has fallen down the pecking order at the Bernabeu this season under new manager Jose Mourinho. Diarra joined Real from Portsmouth two years ago and has also played for Arsenal and Chelsea in his career. Elsewhere, Juventus want to capitalise on Liverpool's financial problems by sealing a cut-price £10m deal for midfielder Alberto Aquilani in January; Chelsea are facing a fight to keep Gael Kakuta at Stamford Bridge with Bayern Munich preparing to swoop for the 19-year-old striker; Liverpool are ready to sell winger Ryan Babel in order to fund a move for talented Valencia midfielder Juan Mata; and Japan striker Keisuke Honda could be available in the January transfer window with Arsenal his likeliest suitors.

Bust up at City - report

(05-10-2010) Roberto Mancini and Carlos Tevez have been involved in a sensational bust-up. According to a report in Tuesday’s edition of The Sun newspaper, the Manchester City manager “poured out a string of insults” at Tevez after which the tiny Argentine swung his arms at the Italian. The row is said to have erupted in the dressing room at half-time during City's 2-1 win over Newcastle at Eastlands. Tevez and Mancini were however seen to shake hands after the 26-year-old was subbed late in the game.

Only City will challenge Chelsea – Essien

(05-10-2010) Michael Essien believes Manchester City are the only club that will challenge Chelsea this season. The Ghanaian’s Stamford Bridge team currently lead the EPL standings by four points after a sensational start to the season. Essien has led the charge with a string of powerful displays as Chelsea have nothched up six wins in their first seven games, their only loss coming against City two weeks ago. "Manchester City are our closest challengers right now," commented Essien on Monday. "You can see they made good signings and they will be up for it. We will see what happens. I don't know if they will have the stamina but they have the players to go out and do the job." Essien has been sidelined for 11 months over the past two seasons because of serious knee injuries but signed a new contract in the summer.