"Everyone can change their mind. The desire for Euro 2004 has been there all the time, but I haven't been sure until now," he told Helsingborgs Dagblad, his hometown newspaper. "Physically I feel well, so it wouldn't be wrong to play in Euro 2004."
Larsson, who has 24 goals and 72 caps to his credit, came out of retirement for one match to help Sweden win a qualifier against Hungary in April. Some of Sweden's leading sports figures, including Uefa president Lennart Johnasson, called for Larsson to play at Euro 2004, but he had rejected the appeals until Friday.
Swedish coach Lars Lagerback was delighted by the striker's u-turn. "We are pleased with Henrik's "yes" and we must say that we have never closed the door on him," he said. "He is very welcome in the squad."
"The break from the national team has done me good and surely made my career longer by one or two years. If everything works well in Euro 2004, I'll continue until they throw me out," Larsson added
He will now spearhead Sweden's attack in Portugal this summer, where they
face Italy, Denmark and Bulgaria in Group C.
Bits and Pieces
Computer problems at footiemad this A.M.......Man. U. insist van Nistelrooy
and Keane are both staying at Old Trafford......Middlesbrough announce
interest in Alan Smith......Desailly suspension reduced to two games......Zat
Knight gets three game ban...... Chelsea talking with Roma regarding defender
Walter Samuel......Ottmar Hitzfeld to leave Bayern after next season......
Stories from BBC Sports site.
Footiemad news item
April 29/04
Despite denials, rumours continue unabated
Despite repeated denials by both Manchester Utd. and Ruud van Nistelrooy,
speculation is rife that the Dutchman will be plying his trade in La Liga
next season. The Spanish press has the Holland international moving to
Real Madrid, or possibly Barcelona, for £30m in the summer.
Reports suggest the clubs are lining up a move for the 27-year-old and believe United will sell at the right price, despite denials from Manchester. Madrid-based newspaper Marca believes Real have agreed a deal "in principle".
Barca financial vice-president Ferran Soriano has said it would be possible
for them to buy the striker as well. He revealed: "The club will be
able to spend £33-40m on acquisitions. All is possible, even van Nistelrooy.
There is not any player who is out of our market, only ones that their
clubs will not sell, such as Thierry Henry - just like we would not sell
Ronaldinho."
Reports suggest Real have stolen a march on their La Liga rivals after
the Dutchman's agent, Roger Linse, held talks with both clubs. Madrid president
Florentino Perez, who has long-coveted the Dutchman, is believed to have
met with Linse within the last fortnight and Real's sporting director Jorge
Valdano is a fan of the former PSV striker. "A player like van Nistelrooy
would have a place in any team in the world, including Real Madrid - who
would not want to sign him?" said Valdano in December.
United remain adamant that their star striker is not leaving. "Ruud
is not for sale," said a club spokesman. "We have said this consistently,
so I don't know what more we can do. He signed a new contract in January
and has said himself over the last few days that he wants to stay with
the club."
However, souces close to the striker suggest he is growing disillusioned
with life at Old Trafford, the quality of Alex Ferguson's signings and
his service up front following David Beckham's departure. "I think
David's missed here as a player and a person," he said before United's
Champions League game against Porto in February.
His form has recently dipped with only two goals in his last nine games
and captain Roy Keane has reportedly read him the riot act over the slump.
Most recently, van Nistelrooy had a training gound altercation with David
Bellion and had to be pulled away by Ryan Giggs and coach Mike Phelan.
He was subsequently left out of last weekend's match against Liverpool,
with Ferguson citing a thigh strain, although he failed to turn up at the
match as a spectator.
Smith wants deck stacked, his favour
Striker Alan Smith, who has warned Leeds he will move on if the club is
relegated, has now told them it will only be to a club of his choice. The
local lad, with the Leeds crest tattooed on his heart, could severely limit
the fee the Elland Road outfit might expect from his move by being overly
choosy on where he will go.
Smith is unhappy that the club have hired an agent to broker the sale of
its star players in the event of the drop. He, along with with Paul Robinson,
Mark Viduka and James Milner, is one of the club's biggest assets and his
sale would help combat rising debts.
"If I have to leave - and that is not certain - it will be to a club
of my choice," Smith said. "I love this club and yet it seems
they've appointed an agent to sell me somewhere I might not want to go."
If they do go down to Division One a host of clubs, including Newcastle
and Middlesbrough, would be interested in the England international. Smith
would go for between £5-7m and reports suggest Birmingham are leading the
early chase for the England international.
Leeds will be hoping none of the above are taboo as far as Smith is concerned.
Bits and Pieces
Beckham a better player after his year in Spain, according to Queiroz......Dalmat
will lose over £250,000 after being shown the door at Tottenham......Pompey
looking to make permanent deal for LuaLua......Barry Ferguson may need
second knee operation......Club captain Iwan Roberts out at Norwch......Parma,
with debts of £207m declared insolvent by Italian court......If Clyde win
promotion, they will groundshare with Kilmarnock for a year......Even if
relegated to Conference, Carlisle chairman John Courtenay and manager Paul
Simpson will stay with club......
Stories from BBC Sports site.
Footiemad news item
April 28/04
van Persie London bound
Robin van Persie, Feyenoord's 20 year old forward, has signed a long term
deal with Arsenal. The Gunners had an initial bid for van Persie rejected
in the January transfer window.
Feyenoord technical director Mark Wotte told Dutch teletext on Wednesday: "Arsenal have signed Robin van Persie on a contract for four years. The two clubs will finalise the last details today." The signature follows a week of speculation concerning the future of the Dutch Under-21 international, who had also been strongly linked with Spanish side Seville and Germany's FC Schalke.
van Persie joined Feyenoord in 2001 as a striker, but can also play out
wide, and has scored 15 goals in 60 matches for the club. The young Dutchman
is seen as a long-term replacement for compatriot Dennis Bergkamp.
Scolari miffed by Ronaldo
Portugal's coach Luiz Felipe Scolari is threatening to leave Cristiano
Ronaldo out of his squad for Euro 2004. The youngster has angered Scolari
by pulling out of training for today's friendly with Sweden, due to injury,
after playing on the weekend.
He said: "Cristiano Ronaldo is an unknown for me. I've seen him play
more for Manchester United than here..I want players who are as keen to
play for their country as their club. If you can play with a knock for
your club, you can do it for your country."
Scolari said he already had 26 names in his head for a squad of 23 he will
announce in mid-May.
Dichio likely carded out of Final
Millwall striker Danny Dichio will almost certainly miss the F.A. Cup Final
after receiving a red card in the game with Nottingham Forest. Referee
Brian Curzon has confirmed he will not reconsider his decision.
Dichio, who has impressed since joining from West Brom in January, will not face Manchester United on 22 May. The former QPR and Sunderland forward was dismissed after an off-the-ball clash with Forest defender West Morgan.
Lions player-manager Dennis Wise told his club's official website: "The referee has already told us that he's not going to change his mind. So, unless we get into the play-offs, Danny's going to miss the Cup final." (At this point a play-off spot seems like a tall order) He will now sit out a three-match ban and Wise added: "He's distraught
about it, as all the other lads are for him, but that's the way it goes
sometimes."
Jones comments get him in trouble
Wolves boss Dave Jones has been charged by the F.A. with bringing the game
into disrepute, following his comments on referee Uriah Rennie after the
loss to Bolton on April 12. He labelled Rennie "arrogant" and
said his performance was "unacceptable" in the 2-1 defeat to
Wanderers.
Jones has until 13 May to respond to charges of 'failing to act in the best interests of the game and bringing the game into disrepute'. He told the club's website: "I look forward to the opportunity of being able to state my case before the FA and explaining why I said some of the things I did."
Jones labelled Rennie's performance "diabolical" and said at the time: "He'll probably go home as happy as Larry but his performance was unacceptable at any level of football. He's an arrogant man - it was as if the game was all about him and that's not the first time that's happened to us with him this season."
The Wolves boss later said he stood by his remarks, saying: "I made my
feelings clear but I don't think I was abusive or derogatory."
Bits and Pieces
Rivaldo's English agent says Reebok deal done, club are saying nothing,
player in Brazil......Ranieri says Chelsea like the idea of Beckham and
Ronaldo at the Bridge......Leeds hire agent to sell stars......Steve Bruce
looking to strengthen squad over the summer. The higher the finish, the
stronger the squad......Maradona starts talking - watch out world......Hammers
face power struggle, Brown still the target......Possible Coventry take-over
bid in the wind......Verbal road-rage attack on Celtic's Neil Lennon gets
fan a £500 fine and possible lifetime ban at Ibrox......Friendly internationals
today. Yesterday in U21 games Scotland and Denmark drew 2-2, as did Poland
and the Republic of Ireland......
Stories from BBC Sports site.
Footiemad news item
April 27/04
No TV at the Bridge, despite all the roubles
Chelsea have appealed against the three match ban handed to Marcel Desailly
by UEFA for his elbow to the face of Fernando Morientes. Anyone who saw
the game would know that he should have been sent off , it was so blatant.
If the governing body have erred in this matter, it is in that, to my knowledge,
they haven't insisted that the referee and his assistants wear glasses
for all future assignments. This appeal by the London club is frivolous
and they should be severely censured for even considering it.
Dutchman's contract extension close
Dennis Bergkamp, who has enjoyed another fine season at Highbury, is hopeful
that the details of a one year extension to his contract can be finalised
within the next few weeks. The former Dutch international, 34, has agreed
a one-year extension in principle for next season.
He said: "The manager has promised it will be sorted out sooner than last year, when the timing was difficult. I told the manager I wanted to carry on and he said 'we're on the same lines' but I'd like it to be done before the end of the season."
Bergkamp only scored four Premiership goals this season but says he is not bothered by people saying he is on his way out at Highbury.
"Ever since 2000, I've read that I'm going to play fewer games. But I'm still playing a lot! So the manager can say it again," he said. "You have to look at how the season goes with injuries. If I can maintain this level then I hope I'll be useful. Football-wise, I haven't surprised myself - but physically you never know if you can keep it up all season. I've hardly missed a training session and just a few games, so I'm quite happy with that."
However he did admit that hanging up his boots at the end of his career would be a difficult experience, because he is so happy to be part of the current Arsenal set-up.
"A lot of players who are coming towards the end of their careers
are happy that it's finishing, but it's going to be difficult for me to
leave this team," he said. "When you really enjoy football, and
this is football at the highest level, you want to keep doing it if you
feel you can. I feel I can still do it, and it would be difficult to say
goodbye."
Martin Keown, who will be 38 in July, has also indicated he wants to keep
playing, although it is difficult to see the former England defender getting
anything more than a back-up role in the Gunners' set-up.
Reid could move south in summer
Andy Reid, Nottingham Forest's young midfield star, could be moving to
the capital in the summer. Forest boss Joe Kinnear revealed that the club
have 'a gentlemen's agreement' to sell him to Spurs. Kinnear admitted the
agreement was made prior to his arrival, with Spurs ready to pay £5m for
the Irishman.
The manager told BBC Radio Nottingham: "Nothing is sealed, nothing is done, but they have had a natter. I wouldn't want to go across anything that has been agreed but I think he's far too cheap at £5m."
He added: "Other clubs would be interested. Why put all our eggs in
one basket? I'm having more say now, but what I would say to our chairman
is look carefully, listen first, before you make any moves, and why not
£10m?"
Bits and Pieces
Ronnie Simpson, goalkeeper for Celtic's 'Lisbon Lions' died of a heart
attack, aged 73. Funeral services today in Edinburgh......Rivaldo expected
to complete Reebok move today......F.A. will look at Leicester/Man. City
melee. Play was held up for six minutes, plus undercard on sidelines......Robert
Huth's alleged stamp on Alan Shearer under investigation......Keane, not
Robbie, the other one, pulls out of Republic squad......Oliver Neuville
would take pay cut over move to Ibrox.......Ipswich manager Joe Royle shocked
that Norwich striker Darren Huckerby not named to PFA Division 1 Team of
the Year......Merson commits to Walsall, even if relegated......Keith Gillespie
back in Northern Ireland squad......Championship medals - appearances needed.
Reyes and Kanu are one short, Aliadiere is three shy and Keown needs four
more. 10 appearances are required to get medal......Feyenoord's Robin van
Persie to decide future by Thursday, with Arsenal the favourites......Mikael
Forsell to stay on loan with Birmingham another year......Keane, the same
one, insists he is happy at Old Trafford, despite Celtic rumours......Begorrah,
now the real Keaneo, Robbie, has pulled out of the Republic squad with
a concussion, suffered on the weekend......I'm thinking that, with all
of the absentees from this squad, maybe the Irish lads just don't like
Polish sausage......
Stories from BBC Sports site.
Footiemad news item
April 26/04
Back where it belongs
A 2-2 draw with Spurs at White Hart Lane, coupled with Newcastle's 2-1
win over Chelsea at St. James' Park earlier in the day, was enough to ensure
the Premiership Champions trophy will once again grace the fabled 'marble
halls'.
The ambition of repeating Manchester United's 1999 feat of claiming a title, FA Cup and Champions League treble may have been dashed by Alex Ferguson's side and Chelsea inside three painful days, but Arsenal remain the season's outstanding side by some distance.
Arsene Wenger has mixed the heady cocktail of silk and steel required for Premiership success, while having the added advantage of arguably the most potent attacking weapon in world football in the shape of Thierry Henry.
BBC Sport's Alan Hansen, a three-time European Cup winner with Liverpool, described them as "the most devastating team in British history."
As they made their way to the title with a record-breaking unbeaten sequence, few who have watched them regularly this season would be moved to mount an argument. Four more unbeaten games and the already excellent campaign will be brought to a glorious conclusion.
Chelsea midfielder Scott Parker was the surprise choice for young player of the year, beating his captain John Terry.
Henry's honour came just hours after Arsenal clinched the championship
following a 2-2 draw at Tottenham. He became only the third player to win
it twice - after Mark Hughes and Alan Shearer - and the first to win it
two years running.
Sutton tops in Scotland
Celtic's Chris Sutton was named Player of the Year in the SPL by his peers.
His contribution to Celtic's championship win and Uefa Cup run has been
immense. He has played in several positions throughout the season, scoring
27 goals in all competitions so far.
His team-mate Stephen Pearson took the accolade for the Young Player of the Year at an awards ceremony in Glasgow on Sunday night.
In the First Division, Clyde striker Ian Harty won the award after his 14 league goals took the club to the brink of promotion to the SPL.
Paul Tosh of Forfar won in the Second Division, having bagged 24 goals over the course of the season.
And in the Third Division, Stranraer's Michael Moore's 25 goals, which have
taken his side to the top of the league, was honoured.
Glazer ups stake in Man. U.
Malcolm Glazer has bought an additional 4.1 million shares in Manchester
Utd., increasing his holding to 18.25% from 16.69%. The 75-year-old U.S.
tycoon, who owns the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the NFL, has been steadily
increasing his share over the last few months, but on 30 March he denied
that he was preparing a takeover approach. However this latest share purchase
will renew speculation that he is preparing a bid for the club.
Back in March Mr Glazer said he had "no current intention" of launching a takeover bid for the club. However he added that he might "consider increasing or decreasing his shareholding in Manchester United in the future." Glazer can continue to buy shares, without making a formal takeover announcement, up until he owns 30% or above of the stock. At that point he would be forced to make an offer for the club, under London Stock Market rules.
The largest single shareholders in Man United are Irish businessmen John Magnier and JP McManus, who own 28.89% through their company Cubic Expression. They have also increased their stake in the club in recent months, at the same time as being involved in a high-profile dispute with manager Alex Ferguson over the stud rights to the horse Rock of Gibraltar. This dispute has now been settled after Ferguson agreed a deal worth £2.5m ($3.7m).
The lure of buying Man United is obvious - a world famous brand that consistently
makes a profit. In March it announced a 32% increase in half-year profits
to £26.8m, beating City forecasts.
Bits and Pieces
Former Bolton and England goalkeeper Eddie Hopkinson has died, aged 69......Diego
Maradona is once again off the respirator......Barca beat Real 2-1 at the
Bernabeu......Ferguson admits he is concerned after loss to Liverpool......Redknapp
praises players after win at Leeds virtually keeps Pompey in the Premiership......Man
dies after fall from the third tier of the San Siro.......Porto win 19th
Potuguese title......
Stories from BBC Sports site.
Footiemad news item
April 25/04
Ups and Downs to this point
Nothing is decided in the Premiership at this time, either at the top or
the bottom. Hahahaha.
In Division 1, West Brom join Norwich as the teams automatically promoted.
Eight sides can still make it to the play-offs. At the other end, Wimbledon
and Bradford are down and, again eight clubs are candidates to join them,
although Walsall are the 'favourites'
Plymouth are Division 2 champions with QPR and Bristol City fighting for
the other automatic spot. Five teams are in the running for the other three
play-off spots. Going the other way are Wycombe and Notts County, with
any of eight sides in line for the other two routes to the Third Division
In Division 3, Doncaster are up, but not yet champions. Hull, Huddersfield,
Torquay and Lincoln can all claim automatic promotion, with all but Lincoln
guaranteed play-off places as an alternative. At the bottom, mathematically,
nothing is decided, but a wager on York and Carlisle would not seem foolhardy.
Chester finished as Conference champions and will be in the Football League
again next season. Hereford, Shrewsbury, Barnet and Aldershot will contest
the play-offs to decide who will accompany them. Northwich and Leigh RMI
are relegated, while Canvey Island and Crawley are in. Farnborough, who
were third from bottom, retain their place, as Unibond winners Hucknall's
ground does not meet Conference standards and Barrow, whose does, failed
to finish second.
North of the Wall, Celtic are runaway champions while Partick finish last
in the SPL. The only other sure things are that Stenhousemuir will get
bottom spot in Division 2 and East Stirling will claim that distinction
in Division 3.
Ronaldo and Becks, the 'Caped Crusaders'?
Flanagan & Allen, Martin & Lewis, Morecambe & Wise, Ronaldo
& Beckham. Are we witnessing the birth of a footballing double act?
Is the Brazilian a paid-up member of the England skipper's fan club? Does
Mrs. B bake great cookies?
Whatever the reason, the Brazilian international, who agreed a two year
contract extension until 2008 with Real Madrid, has declared the Premiership
is his dream and wants to accomplish this with the London lad.
He told the News of the World newspaper: "It is my dream to play in the Premiership and it would be perfect if it was with David. If that place is Chelsea - very good. David and I will play together in the same side for many years to come."
Ronaldo added: "When you actually play alongside David you get to
see how good he really is. I have played against him and with him and can
say with 100% certainty I would always rather play with him. David has
so much creativity when the ball is at his feet, he amazes even me. I know
when he has the ball, unexpected things happen. That's why he is so important."
Bits and Pieces
Maradona back on respirator, but doctors say that does not indicate his
condition has worsened......Ferguson questions Keane's return to the international
scene.......Spurs lock up Simon Davies until 2009......9th minute goal
puts Pompey in front at Elland Road. Is the fat lady clearing her throat?
Stories from BBC Sports site.
Footiemad news item
April 24/04
Values are down the toilet, please flush
Contrary to what you might think, this is not a harangue against the 'Forgetful
One', Manchester Utd., or indeed anyone in particular. It just happens
that along with everybody's Mr Hyde, Roman Abramovich, this is the cast
of the latest rumoured saga to hit the media.
Alex Ferguson has revealed that talks have been started between the club
and Rio Ferdinand on a new long term deal that will, presumably, keep the
defender at Old Trafford until the year 2,325. Ferdinand, who signed a
five year deal in 2002, when he forced the move from Leeds, which will
take him through to the summer of 2007. The 24 year old is reportedly making,
give or take a couple of pence, £90,000 a week. Why?
Enter public enemy #1, Russian squillionaire Roman Abramovich, whose main
toy is Chelsea. Speculation has the entrepreneur coveting the suspended
England defender. If the press were right, and assuming footballers did
not have egos to match their obscene stipends, Chelsea would be able to
field competitive squads in every major league in Europe.
Ferguson believes that the lad has another 12 years or so at the top, espousing the view that central defenders mature at between 27 and 30 years of age. (in our hero's case, this may be optimistic). It is reported that the Scotsman sees Ferdinand as the next club captain, after Coco the clown, who has two years to run on his contract. According to the Daily Mail, the shift in 'power' could happen on September 20, when his ban ends, or sooner.
In 2002, when he drove one of his Ferraris across the Pennines, Ferdinand had apparently reached Nirvana. The club and it's manager have stood by the player through his travails, to the point of looking ridiculous. Even Sven-Goran Eriksson was vocal in support of his errant defender. A crisis point in English football was reached in October, when the thick-as-pig manure players were contemplating strike action to back the miscreant.
Given the above scenario, it is a sad commentary on the beautiful game
that the club might feel that , with three years still to run on his extremely
lucrative contract, Ferdinand may just walk away from Old Trafford and
resurrect himself on the King's Road. If contracts are worth less than
the paper they are written on, why bother with them? Similarly, and I am
not suggesting that Ferdinand has indicated a move back to the capital
is imminent, why would a player feel that it is his right to renege on
a deal that he obviously was happy with at the time of putting pen to paper?
Shakespeare had it right. There is something rotten in the State of Denmark.
Bits and Pieces
Maradona, the Argentine tub of lard, is happily recovering and is now off
the respirator......Rivaldo will sign on at the Reebok this weekend. Best
of luck, Bolton......Kluivert is talking Premiership again......Desailly
gets three game ban for elbowing Morientes......Tight security again at
Old Trafford over possible terror attacks. (Liverpool aren't that good)......
Footiemad news item
April 23/04
FIFA show total disregard
The world governing body have, once again, shown a complete lack of regard
for tradition by scheduling international fixtures over Easter 2005. Fifa
has confirmed Saturday March 26 and Wednesday March 30 as dates for England's
two home 2006 World Cup qualifiers against Northern Ireland and Azerbaijan.
Plans for a winter break next season, wanted by Sven-Goran Eriksson and
agreed to by the F.A., will now have to be put on the back burner, thanks
to the high-handed attitude of FIFA.
The Tsars of the world game have also angered Premiership clubs, who will
lose two lucrative dates from the domestic football calendar over the holiday
period.
Would it have stretched the imagination too far to have played these games
at the conclusion of the domestic season? It is the clubs that pay the
freight, while the national associations together with FIFA, UEFA and the
likes, reap the rewards. This is a global problem to which a solution must
be found.
In fact, qualifying for the major competitions could take place entirely
in the month after domestic season's are finished. In the case of the World
Cup, where there are six or seven nations to a group in Europe, 10 or 12
games could be played in a month, with individual players limited to, for
example, three or four games. Similar schedules could be worked out for
other areas of the world, with similar restrictions.There is, of course,
a downside as nations with greater depth would be at an advantage, but
this is only an initial thought.
Bolton and Rivaldo chatting
Bolton have confirmed they are talking to Rivaldo, with a view to bringing
him to Lancashire. The 32-year-old is at a Manchester hotel for negotiations
with the club but is believed to have already made up his mind to move
to the Reebok Stadium. He could sign as early as next week even though
the transfer window is closed, because he is a free agent.
Rivaldo, whose outrageous theatrics in the 2002 World Cup game with Turkey endeared him to nobody, parted company with Cruzeiro in March having returned to Brazil after his deal with AC Milan was terminated. He'd spent the season to that point as a non-playing substitute, getting only about 15 minutes in the World Club Championship game.
Bolton boss Sam Allardyce has made a habit of pulling off high-profile
signings in recent years - with another World Cup winner in the shape of
France's Youri Djorkaeff chief among them, but Rivaldo would surpass the
capture of Djorkaeff and that of Nigerian star Jay-Jay Okocha, in terms
of profile.
Seville in Glasgow for Larsson
Seville will provide the opposition when Celtic play a post-season friendly
to mark the departure of Henrik Larsson. It is appropriate that the Spanish
side will be at Celtic Park on May 25. Links were formed with Seville when
the city hosted last season's Uefa Cup final between Celtic and Porto.
The date of the game also marks the 37th anniversary of the 1967 European
Cup final win over Inter Milan in Lisbon.
Larsson, who has become the third-highest goalscorer in Celtic's history, has said that Spain is his preferred destination once he departs. The Swedish goal machine joined Celtic, then under Wim Jansen, in 1997 for just £650,000 from Feyenoord. He has yet to decide which club he will join at the end of his current Celtic contract.
The 32-year-old has also to announce whether he will bow to public pressure
and come out of international retirement to play for Sweden at Euro 2004 in
Portugal.
Bits and Pieces
Leeds reject possible 2nd takeover in one month......Barry Ferguson close
to comeback for Blackburn, could get reserve team run-out next week......Juan
Pablo Angel back in training, could see action on weekend.....Porto have
not lodged official complaint against Chelsea, yet!......Paolo di Canio
has to sweat on new deal until summer......Graham Poll to miss Man U/Liverpool
game with thigh problem (or Gary Neville comments)......Getting to crunch
time. A lot of teams' fates on the line this weekend. A Newcastle draw
coupled with......... Glory be.
Stories from BBC Sports site.
Footiemad news item
April 22/04
Champions League Semi Final 1st leg
Porto and Deportivo played to a snore draw yesterday in Portugal. Both
sides appeared bereft of any desire to attack. The exception was Maniche
hitting the bar in the 66th minute, almost turning things in favour of
Porto. In all, a very disappointing game, although Deportivo have to be
the happier squad, as they have yet to concede a goal in the competition
on home turf.
UEFA Cup Semi Final 1st leg
Newcastle, with several players out or doubtful, face Marseille, who have
a couple of injury problems of their own, at St. James' Park. In the other
contest Villarreal host Valencia. The home side will be missing the suspended
Rodolfo Arruabarrena, whilst Valencia will miss Pablo Aimar, out with a
groin problem.
Canaries get penthouse roost next season
Norwich boss Nigel Worthington took in the reserve team game at Carrow
Road last night as his side won promotion to the Premiership after a nine
year absence. Crystal Palace beat Sunderland 3-0 in South London to guarantee
the East Anglia side an automatic berth in the top flight.
Worthington is hoping to learn in the next couple of weeks, the size of
his budget with which to try and consolidate top-flight status.
"We've not discussed it. I've been in the game a long time and I know that things can turn," he told BBC Sport. "No doubt we'll sit down in the next couple of weeks and have a look. What we will do is do it seriously. We will not blow every penny that we get into this football club. We are never going to have as much as some of the other clubs but that's how we work here - we do what we can and what we can't do, we leave alone."
Worthington has been backed by the Norwich board this season - spending
£1m on three players ahead of the final promotion push, but he is realistic
about the gap in spending power between his own club and most of the managers
he is about to battle with.
Abramovich upsets Porto
FC Porto have lodged an official complaint with FIFA following an approach
by Chelsea to their manager Jose Mourinho. Porto have accused Roman Abramovich
of trying to persuade him to walk out on his contract with the club. They
are furious following Mourinho's claims he "will be moving to London
in the summer" to replace Blues boss Claudio Ranieri.
Abramovich plans to hold talks with Mourinho next week after meeting his
advisors in Spain in Monday. The Porto boss backed out of Monday's meeting,
preferring to postpone until after the Champions League semi-finals have
been concluded. However, he has made his intentions clear, saying: "The
Premiership is the biggest league in the world. Anyone would aspire to
work there and when the chance comes I'm going to take it."
Following the 3-1 defeat by Monaco on Tuesday, it seems Chelsea's players would be just as enthusiastic as Mourinho about his arrival. Ranieri appears to have lost his players' backing after his ill-fated substitutions left their Champions League future in the balance. One player is reported to have labelled Ranieri's tactical changes as "a complete mess".
A furious bust-up has reportedly developed between Ranieri and Juan Sebastian
Veron, after the Argentine claimed he was forced to play against his wishes
on Tuesday. Veron insisted he was not fit after five months out injured,
but says Ranieri ignored his pleas. The midfielder came on as a second-half
substitute but was clearly unhappy and well off the pace.
Whilst Ranieri's use of his bench on Tuesday was quite amazing, (in a negative
sense), it is difficult to imagine the man going from saint to goat in
the space of 45 minutes. The players themselves, whom the Italian has used
throughout the season, must shoulder some of the blame for the catastrophic
second half. Although they have a mountain to climb in the second leg,
a 2-0 result would see them through.
Bits and Pieces
Leeds could be headed for another takeover.......Liverpool open preliminary
talks with Michael Owen's agent...... Diego Maradona out of danger......Ron
Atkinson out of two jobs because of racist remark......Spurs' Anthony Gardner
wants whole defence to stop Thierry Henry.......Birmingham are favourites
to land Muzzy Izzett.....Middlesbrough release Ricardinho.
Stories from BBC Sports site.
Footiemad news item
April 21/04
Champions League Semi Final 1st leg
In the second of the ties, tonight, Porto host Deportivo la Coruna. Last
night, in Monaco, bookies' favourite Chelsea came unglued in the second
half and were beaten 3-1 by their hosts, who played the last 40 minutes
reduced to 10 men, courtesy of a ham acting job by Claude Makelele, which
resulted in Andreas Zikos being sent off. Marcel Desailly is under investigation
by UEFA for elbowing Fernando Morientes, for which he undoubtedly will
be suspended and miss the return game. Makelele is also ruled out of the
second leg for an accumulation of yellows. Zikos is out for Monaco, who
will argue that his sending off was harsh. Claudio Ranieri, whose substitutions
were somewhat questionable, has shouldered much of the blame for the loss.
Manchester game passes without incident
United beat Charlton 2-0 yesterday, on a night that saw extra police security
checks, passing without off-field drama.
Assistant Chief Constable Dave Whatton said the decision to tighten security followed media claims Old Trafford was to be the target of a terrorist attack. It came after the arrest of 10 people under the Terrorism Act on Monday, of whom seven were detained in Manchester. A Greater Manchester Police spokeswoman said: "The match at Old Trafford passed without incident."
The club asked supporters to arrive early for Tuesday's match, where an
increased number of searches were carried out. Extra checks and searches
will also be carried out at Saturday's home game against Liverpool, ACC
Whatton said.
Money to cure Pool woes
Anfield boss Gerard Houllier, under fire all season, will apparently be
given another £30m to strengthen his squad over the summer. This comes
after the already outrageous amounts he has spent previously, chasing mediocrity.
He will reportedly be given one more year to get it right.
Houllier has already earmarked £14m for Auxerre striker Djibril Cisse as the club bids to get back among the Premiership's elite,.Cisse's team-mate Philippe Mexes, Nottingham Forest youngster Michael Dawson and Ajax's Hatem Trabelsi have also been linked with the Merseysiders.
El-Hadji Diouf, Salif Diao and Djimi Traore are among those tipped to be offloaded, although the list of possibilities being mentioned in the same breath as the exit-door is extensive.
A big-spending strategy is a calculated risk for Liverpool, who already
have a sizeable debt after two seasons without any significant Champions
League interest. A third season with limited Champions League income would
prove serious.
A few high-profile summer purchases might be the key to persuading England
striker Michael Owen to finally commit to a longterm deal.
Williamson heads for Home Park
Bobby Williamson, announced yesterday as the new manager at Plymouth, is
confident the club can go places and is aiming to establish it as a major
force. The former Hibs' boss has inherited a side top of Division Two,
who could clinch the championship at the weekend by beating QPR.
"It's a challenge. I am looking forward to it," he told the club's
website. "Hopefully we can get over that finishing line and make ourselves
a First Division team - that is the aim and then see how far we can go.
We have got to set our ambitions high and go for it. That is the aim -
to try and get the best out of the staff I have got at my disposal and
motivate them to do their best on a daily basis."
Pars reach Scottish Cup Final
Dunfermline overcame an early deficit to beat Inverness CT 3-2 in the Scottish
Cup semi-final replay at Pittodrie yesterday. A crowd of less than 6,000
were on hand for the hard fought match. It will be their first appearance
in the final for 36 years when they meet Celtic on May 22, as well as a
place in next season's UEFA Cup competition.
Stories from BBC Sports site.
Footiemad news item
April 20/04
Champions League Semi Final 1st leg
Chelsea play Monaco this evening, in the Principality, and will be without
Damien Duff and William Gallas, who did not make the trip because of a
bug. Hernan Crespo, Eidur Gudjohnson and Juan Sebastian Veron have all
recovered sufficiently and are with the squad. John Terry has an ankle
injury, so team selection will be delayed. Monaco will be missing defender
Sebastien Squillaci, who has a thigh injury, however Shabani Nonda, leading
scorer in France last year, is fit.
Scholes to miss three
Manchester Utd. and England midfielder Paul Scholes has been banned for
three games, for violent conduct, by the F.A., after an incident with Middlesbrough's
Doriva in February. He has decided not to appeal, meaning he will be available
for the FA Cup final against Millwall on 22 May.
However, he will miss United's next three Premiership games against Charlton, Liverpool and Blackburn, returning for the encounter with Chelsea, which could be crucial in the race for second place in the Premiership.
United boss Alex Ferguson had already predicted Scholes would be banned for three matches and criticised the FA for its treatment of his players.
"There is a scenario for every club in the country and another one for us," he said. "We expect Paul to have a difficult hearing. Put it this way, I don't think he will get the same hearing as other players get."
Referee Paul Durkin did not include the tussle between Scholes and Doriva
in his report after the match, but television replays highlighted the incident.
Ferguson said: "The referee was only five or six yards away. He said
he didn't see it. It was something and nothing really."
Sour grapes in Manchester, you say. Surely not with the always amicable
Scot! Say it isn't so!
Wales to make final appeal
The Football Association of Wales has decided to make a last effort to
have Russia thrown out of Euro 2004. Uefa has twice rejected appeals that
Russia's play-off win against Wales should not stand because midfielder
Egor Titov failed a drugs test. Now Wales will takes its case before the
Court of Arbitration for Sport.
"The Football Association of Wales has lodged an appeal against Uefa's decision," confirmed FAW secretary general David Collins. "We have until tomorrow (Tuesday) to make our written submissions and Uefa then has a further 10 days to make any submissions it so wishes. We looked at the written judgement we received from Uefa following our appeal in some detail with our legal advisors. Counsel decided that they would continue to pursue every avenue available to them, to see if we could obtain justice in the matter."
"Throughout this matter, the FAW has always maintained that it would
pursue all available remedies in an effort to obtain a just outcome,"
Collins added. "The Uefa appeals body did not give sufficient weight
to the powerful arguments submitted at the hearing and erred in not letting
the nominated expert scientific witnesses give evidence in person."
The Switzerland-based Court of Arbitration for Sport is an independent body that helps settle sports-related disputes through arbitration or mediation.
Boro legend dies.
Middlesbrough and England defender George Hardwick died yesterday after
a lengthy illness.He was 84. Flags at Boro's Riverside ground flew at half-mast
and there will be a silence before this weekend's match.
'Gentleman George' made 166 appearances for Boro, his home club, and led Great Britain to a 6-1 win over the rest of Europe at Hampden Park in 1947. He was granted the freedom of the Borough of Redcar and Cleveland three years ago.
On the club's official website, Middlesbrough chairman Steve Gibson said:
"George Hardwick's name was synonymous with Middlesbrough Football
Club. He was a Boro legend and alongside the late Wilf Mannion, he represented
club and town at the highest level on the international stage."
Model hits BIG time
Oldham have caught the eye with the launch of their new home kit..Model
Michelle Marsh, a former Page 3 girl, posed for a series of photographs
in the new, ahem, strip and a 100ft projection of her was beamed on to
Oldham's tallest building at the weekend. The giant image was flashed up
on the Civic Tower ensuring fans returning from Saturday's victory over
leaders Plymouth had more than the football to talk about.
A spokeswoman for the club said the stunt had proved very popular with supporters - particularly the men. "It's fair to say Michelle was stoppping traffic," she said. "You could see the image for miles around."
The kit has gone on sale two weeks earlier than planned - although you can
bet your bottom dollar the average beer-bellied supporter does not wear it quite
so well.
Stories from BBC Sports site.
Footiemad news item
April 19/04
Maradona in 'hands of God' situation
Argentine legend Diego Maradona, notorious for his 'hand of God' goal that
beat England in the 1986 World Cup quarter-final, is in critical condition,
suffering from high blood pressure and breathing failure. The 43 year old
was admitted to a private clinic and is in intensive care, just hours after
watching his old club Boca Juniors.
Maradona, who has been battling drug addiction for years, has been sedated and attached to a respirator. The medical report states his prognosis is "moderately favourable" but the forecast is as yet uncertain. Argentine TV channel Todo Noticias claimed Maradona had fallen ill after taking a drug overdose. Maradona's family doctor Alfredo Cahe refused to comment on those reports. Family, friends and well-wishers flooded to the Suizo-Argentina clinic as news of Maradona's condition spread.
In 2000, in Uruguay, Maradona suffered a severe heart crisis due to a cocaine overdose. He then began a long recovery treatment in Cuba, but since an overweight Maradona returned to Argentina, speculation and concern has grown over his health.
In his 20-year career, Maradona won Italian and Argentine league titles
and led Argentina to World Cup victory in 1986 and second place in 1990.
In 2000, Maradona tied with Pele for the accolade of Fifa's best ever player.
Beckham back on the block?
David Beckham could be on the move again this summer if Spanish entrepreneur
Enrique Sobrino wins the club presidency..Sobrino, aiming to oust Florentino
Perez in the elections, was reported as saying: "Beckham has to change.
I would listen to offers for him." It is claimed he feels Beckham,
whose personal life has been the subject of much speculation, spends too
much time away from Madrid.
That could alert Chelsea, who have been linked with a £25m move for Beckham, who only joined Real last summer, in a £25m transfer from Manchester United.
However, Sobrino wants to move out the England captain, fellow midfielder Luis Figo and Roberto Carlos, and replace them with Barcelona's Ronaldinho. Perez himself got elected with the promise of signing Figo, then at Barca, so for Real to lure the latest star of their most bitter rivals would be deeply controversial.
"The option we have of presenting ourselves at the election is getting
more solid every day, independent of the results at the end of the season,"
said Sobrino. If successful he hopes to break up the nucleus of players
known as Real's 'galacticos'. "Some of them have not done enough and
some of them are not doing enough," he said. "I would listen
to offers for David Beckham and Luis Figo won't continue. People say Roberto
Carlos has an agreement with another club, I don't know if that's true
or not, but one thing that's certain is he is looking for the contract
of his life and we're not going to give it to him."
Bhoys retake Scottish title
Celtic regained the Scottish championship at the ground on which they narrowly
lost it last year, edging Kilmarnock 1-0 at Rugby Park. Stilian Petrov
scored the winner following a neat flick from Henrik Larsson after 30 minutes.
Their runaway win in the league could be augmented by reclaiming the Scottish
Cup next month, with a victory over either Dunfermline or Inverness CT.
Newcastle lose two for UEFA Cup game
Newcastle will be without Craig Bellamy, above, and Jermaine Jenas for
their UEFA Cup semi-final 1st leg, against Marseille at St. James' Park
on Thursday. Bellamy went off in the 0-0 draw with Aston Villa with a hamstring
tear while Jenas sustained a thigh injury.
"That's the saddest thing for me," Robson said. "We've lost Bellamy with a hamstring tear and Jenas with a tear of the upper thigh muscle. We've lost £20m of talent. They are irreplaceable players at this level."
Robson also added that England midfielder Kieron Dyer is a doubt for the
first leg, saying "Kieron Dyer is recovering from a hamstring, but
it's delicate."
West Brom almost home and dry
A Jason Koumas goal in second half injury time beat Sunderland 1-0 and
as good as guaranteed the Midlands side an immediate return to the top
flight. The Black Cats, with five games remaining, are now 12 points back
of the Baggies for the second automatic promotion spot. Norwich are two
points clear at the top.
Stories from BBC Sports site
Footiemad news item
April 18/04
van Nistelrooy will stay put
Speculation that Ruud van Nistelrooy will be leaving Old Trafford in the
summer has been trashed by the Dutchman. Holland's international striker
has been heavily linked with a summer move to Barcelona as well as Real
Madrid.
"To suggest that I want to leave is ludicrous," Van Nistelrooy told the Sunday Mirror. "I don't know where these stories are coming from. I don't care when I read in the newspaper that I am going to Real Madrid or Barcelona after this season. It is all total rubbish."
United were linked with a move for Barcelona's Carlos Puyol last year and
recent reports suggested the central defender may be used by the Catalan
club to lure Van Nistelrooy to the Nou Camp. Barcelona vice president Sandro
Rosell, however, told BBC Sport Puyol will not be leaving the Spanish club
- and now Van Nistelrooy has reaffirmed his commitment to United.
van Nistelrooy added: "I thought long and hard about the implications
of signing a new four-year contract at United and I have no regrets whatsoever.
I have said many times I would be happy to see out the best days of my
career at this club and nothing has changed."
Bantams join Dons in Division 2
Already relegated Wimbledon went to Yorkshire and beat Bradford 3-2. The
rare win by the Milton Keynes side ensured their hosts would be joining
them in Division 2 next season.
At the other end of the table, there is a big game at the Stadium of Light
today. Third place Sunderland, with a game in hand, take on West Brom,
with both sides eyeing an automatic promotion spot. Going into the game
there is a nine point difference between the two.
Leaders Norwich hammered Walsall 5-0 yesterday and with four games to go
have a five point lead.
Division 2 unchanged, but tighter
Leaders Plymouth were trounced 4-1 at Oldham, QPR, in second place, were
held to a 1-1 draw by lowly Stockport and Bristol City went down 3-2 at
Luton, who's second goal was somewhat controversial in the mind of City
boss Danny Wilson. The next three all moved closer to a play-off berth.
Swindon beat already doomed Wycombe 3-0, Brighton edged Peterborough 1-0
and Hartlepool were 4-0 winners over Notts County, who look like a safe
bet to be playing in Division 3 with Wycombe come August.
Same story in Division 3
Leaders Doncaster, already having a promotion spot locked up, dropped a
1-0 decision to fourth place Torquay. Hull picked up a point at Macclesfield
with a 1-1 draw, while Huddersfield got a little closer with a 3-2 victory
over Scunthorpe. Along with the Devon side, Lincoln and Mansfield were
both winners.
Chester win Conference
A 1-0 win over Scarborough gave Chester the Conference title and, after
a four year hiatus, a place in the Football League next season.
Bhoys can clinch it today
Celtic visit Rugby Park this afternoon and a win over Kilmarnock will give
the Glasgow side their third SPL title in the last four years. Swedish
striker Henrik Larsson, who will be moving on in the summer, will be a
key man as the hoops will be without Alan Thompson, out with a hamstring,
and possibly Chris Sutton because of a groin problem. It would be a fourth
title for Larsson during his time in Scotland.
Hibs boss favourite for Plymouth job
Bobby Williamson is expected to be unveiled as the new manager at Plymouth
on Monday, taking over from Paul Sturrock, who moved to Southampton in
March. Williamson refused to comment on renewed media speculation this
morning, but BBC Sport believes that the two clubs are discussing compensation.
However, Argyle chairman Paul Stapleton insisted: "Nothing is decided and the board will meet again today. We had a phone call today from a new candidate. Someone could be too dear for us, or his family might not want to come." Stapleton thought it would be disrespectful, if they had chosen Williamson, to make an announcement before the Scottish Premier League club's meeting with Dundee.
Williamson had insisted all week that he did not want to leave Easter Road but stressed: "It may be an indication that Hibs are prepared to let me go that they let me speak to them." However, he pointed out that Hibs' decision earlier in the season to reduce his wages and tear up his five-year contract was a factor in his thinking. (I can see that having a bearing)
"You could say that talking to them means I am interested, but you can look at it the other way, the club allowed me to go and speak to them," he said. "But that's football and the next move is up to Plymouth and Hibs."
Williamson has had an uneasy relationship with the Hibs fans, some being
unforgiving of him coming from the west coast of Scotland and being a former
Rangers player.
Stories from BBC Sports site.
Footiemad news item
April 17/04
The news is late today because last night was also, together with the fact
that today's games started at 7.30 in this time zone. Without anymore ado,
(it will be a short one)
Henry bags four
Thierry Henry scored four goals in yesterday's 5-0 victory over Leeds at
Highbury. Robert Pires got the opener in the very one-sided game.
Motormouth shifts gear
Manchester Utd.'s miserable manager, Alex Ferguson, accused the F.A. of
having one set of rules for the rest of the league and a harsher set for
his bunch of choirboys. Paul Scholes faces an F.A. hearing on Monday following
an incident with Dorivo, for which he could get a three game ban. The referee
did not see it, so the 'sour one' believes no action should be taken. He
is still incensed that the 'Brain of Britain's' eight month ban was upheld
for missing the drug test and, I'm sure, still sees nothing wrong with
the Irish idiot's tackle on Haaland. Cobblers!
Footiemad news item
April 16/04
Ref's to target diving
Starting next season, premiership referee's will be under orders to be
very strict in punishing what they consider to be diving. Officials believe
players have perfected the art of going down in the penalty area.
"We will increase the intensity of action for simulation this coming season," said Keith Hackett, manager of the body that administers referees. From next season, a dive will be punished by an immediate yellow card and a free-kick to the opposition. The law has been in place for some time, but referee's have been reticent about using it.
"When Gary Neville dived between two Arsenal players (in a recent Arsenal-Manchester United match), I left it. If I'd have had the courage to do the right thing, I would have booked him," said top referee Graham Poll.(above). "The next week, Gary Neville did exactly the same. It's very clear that players are excellent at simulation. I'm not saying they do practise but I find it hard to believe they are so good at something without practising."
Referees have identified four types of diving - when there is no contact, when minimal contact is exaggerated, when the diving player drags his leg and finally when a player overreacts.
In order to avoid a rash of bookings at the start of next season, meetings
between the Professional Game Match Officials Limited, the Professional
Footballers' Association and the League Managers Association will be held to
gain an understanding of the new directive.
It should be remembered that diving is not an activity, (or art), confined
exclusively to the penalty area. If they are serious about clamping down
on this practice, it must include the entire playing surface.Poll, incidentally,
should be congratulated on his admission.
Franny sees the light
A repentent Francis Jeffers could be playing again this season for Everton,
after further talks to clear the air. The striker, on loan for the season
from Arsenal, had been told he would not play for the club again after
a row with manager David Moyes.
"Talks, instigated by Francis himself, were held earlier this week
and the player has now resumed normal training," said an Everton statement.
"Francis is now available for the club's final five Premiership fixtures,
starting with Saturday's game."
The statement continued: "A period of reflection followed his weekend
announcement that he no longer wished to play for Everton under the managership
of David Moyes. Francis Jeffers has reconsidered his position and has now
settled his differences with both club and manager. The club now regards
the matter as closed."
PFA Player of the Year Awards Nominees
Thierry Henry is one of six players nominated for Player of the Year. Henry,
who won last year's award, will be up against Arsenal team-mate Patrick
Vieira, Alan Shearer, Frank Lampard, Jay-Jay Okocha and Steven Gerrard.
John Terry, Glen Johnson, Scott Parker, Wayne Rooney, Kolo Toure and Shaun Wright-Phillips have been nominated for the Young Player of the Year honour.
The winners will be announced at the PFA's annual dinner on April 25.
City serious about safety
Ticket sales for the East End stand have been suspended for Bristol City's
final two games of the season at Ashton Gate. The decision comes on the
heels of the celebrations which followed Lee Peacock's late winner against
local rivals Plymouth.
"A number of people deliberately crossed the netting, climbed the
fence and gestured at the Plymouth fans," said Chairman Steve Lansdown.
"It had serious safety issues, especially if the fence had collapsed.
Serious injury could have been caused. We cannot just sit back and let
such instances pass without investigation. It is not as if people have
not been warned and such deliberate flouting of the safety rules cannot
be condoned."
Lansdown is due to meet with police and safety officers to investigate
the problems of fans standing up in their all-seater stand.
Sanity also prevails in Ayrshire, at a cost
Kilmarnock will restrict the sale of tickets to Celtic fans for Sunday's
game at Rugby Park. The SPL leaders head to Ayrshire for the second season
running, looking to win the championship. Trouble almost erupted last May
during the same fixture, when pockets of Celtic fans sitting among the
home support celebrated their side's win
"Celtic fans can no longer purchase tickets at Rugby Park," confirmed Killie general manager Dave MacKinnon.
A win for Celtic at Rugby Park will secure the SPL title, therefore a large visiting support is guaranteed. However, Celtic supporters will now only be able to buy their tickets from Celtic direct.
MacKinnon admits this will lose Kilmarnock valuable revenue. "The measures we have put in place are probably costing the club £100,000," he told the Sun newspaper. "We can only hope our supporters appreciate this and respond by turning out in numbers. By doing this for the four Old Firm games at the ground this season it will mean a loss of more than £400,000. It is a brave decision and it was actually taken before I was appointed."
MacKinnon also revealed that any Killie supporter who passes on a ticket to a
Celtic fan faces a ban for life.
Stories from BBC Sports site.
Footiemad news item
April 15/04
UEFA Cup Quarter Finals 2nd leg
Newcastle beat PSV 2-1 for an aggregate 3-2 win and face Marseille, who
beat Inter Milan 1-0 for a 2-0 aggregate, in the semi-finals. Valencia
won 2-1 over Bordeaux for a 4-2 aggregate and will meet Villarreal, 2-0
winners against Celtic, giving them a 3-1 aggregate score. The first legs
will be played at Newcastle and Villarreal on April 22.
Forlan on way out
Diego Forlan will be shown the door at Old Trafford in the summer, according
to reports. The 24-year-old Uruguayan striker has struggled to make an
impact at Old Trafford since signing from Independiente for £7.5m in 2002
and has made just 36 starts for the club. Spanish sides Sevilla and Real
Betis are rumoured to be interested and Forlan may be allowed to leave
for around £2m.
Forlan was taken off after 55 minutes of the win over Leicester on Tuesday and walked off down the tunnel, a move that angered boss Alex Ferguson.
United could also be set to cash in on Brazilian midfielder Kleberson,
who has made only 14 appearances for the club since a £5.9m move from Atletico
Paranaense. Kleberson - a 2002 World Cup winner with Brazil - has failed
to settle in Manchester since his high-profile August transfer. He dislocated
a shoulder in September and has not managed a proper run in the team since.
van Bommel will talk to Spurs
PSV Eindhoven and Holland midfielder Mark van Bommel, who has been linked
with a move to Bundesliga side Schalke, has confirmed he will be having
talks with Tottenham. The Dutchman was linked with a move to Spurs last
month after his representative Karol Jansen told BBC Sport he was keen
to play in the Premiership. "I think he would like to join a club
like Spurs, with great tradition and lots of very good players," Jansen
had said.
van Bommel said: "I'm going to talk to Spurs. I think they have a good squad so I'm going to talk to them. Spurs are interested in me and I'm interested in them. Every team (in the Premiership) has internationals and it would be good to play against them."
The midfielder has been at PSV for five years, but is out of contract in 2005 and the Dutch side would not want him to leave on a free transfer.
There have been signs that the prospective deal with Schalke could stall
after the club's general manager Rudi Assayer suggested PSV wanted to stir
up a bidding war. "Six million euros (£4m) for van Bommel is unrealistic,"
Assayer told DSF television, adding "He does not want to go to England,
he wants to come to Schalke."
Houllier gets backing from above
Liverpool chief executive Rick Parry has suggested that manager Gerard
Houllier's job is not contingent on the club finishing fourth in the Premiership.
The Anfield club currently hold fourth place, ahead of Newcastle, who have
the same number of points and goal difference and a game in hand, while
five other clubs are all within five points.
Asked if Houllier's position rested on Liverpool qualifying for the Champions League, Parry told the club's website: "No, of course it doesn't. Statements saying this will happen if we come fifth are not helpful. Fourth is essential, as we have said all along. For all sorts of reasons we really do need to clinch that. There's a huge financial gulf between the Champions League and the Uefa Cup and it makes life difficult. We want to be challenging for honours, clearly, and I think we all feel as disappointed and as frustrated as the fans."
"You can never guarantee that you are going to win the league, but
we should be challenging. We really should be a title contender,"
said Parry. "Clearly there is a whole series of different factors
which I won't go into as to why that hasn't happened. There's no way that
fourth should be a long-term acceptable target. That's partly why we have
our financial advisers on board to re-look at our strategy,"
Speculation is rife that a major house-cleaning will take place at Anfield
over the summer.
Think of it as a holiday
Three weeks after he was fired, Brian Laws is back in charge at Scunthorpe.
He is expected back at Glanford Park today and will take charge of the
team at Huddersfield this weekend. Since Laws was sacked the team has not
won any games and they are three points above the Division Three drop zone.
Iron chairman Chris Holland resigned after a board meeting on Wednesday with major shareholder Steve Wharton regaining control of the club.
A statement released on the club's official website said: "It was
announced by Scunthorpe United Football Club that Mr JS Wharton, the majority
shareholder in the club, is to rejoin the board as chairman. Mr Wharton
pledged himself to work hard to try and reverse the recent poor results
of the football team. To that end he will be asking Brian Laws to return
as manager. It was also announced that Mr CO Holland, Mr B Collen, Mr B
Borrill and Mr JAC Godfrey have resigned from the board as the decisions
that the existing board made did not receive the backing of the major shareholder."
A Wise man keeps his mouth shut
The F.A. have fined Dennis Wise £3,000 and warned him as to his future
conduct. Wise was charged with directing abusive and/or insulting words
towards referee Frazer Stretton after the defeat to Sheffield United in
March.
However, the Millwall player-boss was relieved to have avoided a possible touchline ban. His representative said: "We are pleased with the outcome." Wise, who took over as manager of Millwall in November, will lead his side out at the FA Cup final on May 22.
As a player, Wise has been sent off 13 times and four years ago he was fined £7,500 for his part in a tunnel bust-up whilst at Chelsea. He was also involved in the pre-season altercation with then Leicester team-mate Callum Davidson, which resulted in the Midlands club terminating his contract. Funny how things turn out.
Stories from BBC Sports site.
Footiemad news item
April 14/04
UEFA Cup Quarter Finals 2nd leg
Newcastle host PSV Eindhoven after 1-1 draw, Celtic travel to Villarreal
also tied 1-1, Valencia are home to Bordeaux leading 2-1 and Marseille
take a 1-0 lead to the San Siro to play Inter Milan.
Why not have a 'Jack the Ripper' day
The Irish F.A. confirmed yesterday that Roy Keane will be allowed to don
the green jersey again. A shameful day for the Republic.
Ticket allocations for the F.A. Cup final, for the first time, are split
unevenly. Millwall get about 24,000 while Manchester Utd. will get about
38,000. We know that the brainpower at Soho Square is very limited, but
this is ludicrous. The ticket share-out for the game on 22 May will see
28,000 going directly to United and 21,400 to the London club. But a further
12,000 tickets will go to FA counties and clubs. If these are sold on,
they will have to go to organisations such as registered supporters' groups,
and the FA estimates that about 10,000 of these will go to United.
What has this man got to do?
Chelsea have confirmed that talks between chief executive Peter Kenyon
and manager Claudio Ranieri will take place today, despite newspaper speculation
that Kenyon was pulling out of the meeting. Ranieri's job has come under
intense media speculation since Roman Abramovich bought the club last summer.
A decision on his future is highly unlikely today, with Kenyon expected to use the meeting to spell out Ranieri's overall responsibilities in developing the youth academy and upgraded training facilities. The affable Italian has a rolling contract until 2007 and is keen to stay at Chelsea, but he admitted he would be unlikely to accept a role as director of football.
"I love my job a lot because I feel good at Chelsea and I would love
to stay but I don't know what is in Peter's mind," Ranieri told BBC
Sportsweek programme. "I would think about the kind of job that involves
the academy but I am 52, I am used to working my way and I follow my way."
Johnson out for lengthy spell
Leeds midfielder Seth Johnson has sustained serious ligament damage and
could be out for up to nine months. He was stretchered off in the win at
Blackburn on Saturday.
"Seth has got ligament damage and will not play for a long time. It
is a bad injury and he will miss six to nine months," Leeds boss Eddie
Gray said. "He's not had much luck since he came. He was having a
run in the side and playing well and it's disappointment for him and everyone
at the club."
Mexes Liverpool bound. Depends
Liverpool must finish fourth apparently, if they want to have Auxerre defender
Phillipe Mexes in their squad next season. The French international will
leave in the summer for one of Europe's giants and Auxerre boss Guy Roux
said on Monday Liverpool had won the race.
Mexes' agent Olivier Jouanneaux, however, told BBC Sport: "Philippe
will not join Liverpool if they do not qualify for the Champions League
next year. It is a key motivation for him to play in the European Cup."
Auxerre are resigned to losing the 22-year-old, and have signed Banik Ostrava's
Czech international defender Rene Bolf to replace him and boss Roux told
the Anfield website: "Mexes knows Liverpool is his destination when
the season finishes. It is true he has been followed by the great European
teams, including Juventus, but nobody has made a concrete offer for Mexes
except the Reds."
Liverpool need to strengthen in that department with Igor Biscan, Sami
Hyypia and Stephane Henchoz all performing inconsistently this season.
Gerard Houllier had been confident of signing Mexes, but the statement
by Jouanneaux is sure to rock Anfield - especially coming after the Reds'
1-0 home defeat to Charlton on Saturday.
Jouanneaux, who met Auxerre coach Guy Roux on Friday to discuss Mexes' future, added that Houllier had contacted him last summer to talk about the defender's plans. The agent also confirmed that he has held discussions with unnamed Italian clubs over Mexes' transfer.
Jouanneaux said: "Auxerre have told us that they will sell Philippe
in the summer, but they have as yet to fix a transfer fee. When we met
on Friday, Roux did not mention Liverpool, but Roux would prefer Mexes
to move to an English club, because Premiership teams do not have the financial
problems of Italian sides. Above all what Roux wants to do is to create
competition between clubs to increase the transfer fee."
Celtic show some class
John Kennedy, although badly injured, will get a new deal with the Bhoys.
Kennedy shattered his knee during his Scotland debut at the end of March,
a vital friendly, and will be sidelined for at least a year.
Celtic boss Martin O'Neill promised the injury would not affect his plans to offer the 20-year-old a new deal. "It makes absolutely no difference whatsoever in terms of John's contract negotiations and we will be tying up all the loose ends in the next few weeks," he said.
Kennedy impressed during his 20 appearances for Celtic this season and was in
the advanced stage of contract talks before his unfortunate clash with Romanian
striker Vio Ganea.
Stories from BBC Sports site.
Footiemad news item
April 13/04
Doncaster win promotion at first crack
Doncaster, who returned to the Football League via the play-off route from
the Conference less than 12 months ago, became the first of the League
teams to win promotion. A 2-0 home win against Cambridge yesterday, extending
their unbeaten run to 14 games, ensured Division 2 football for the Yorkshire
side next season.
Doncaster broke through on the hour when Adebayo Akinfenwa forced Greg
Blundell's cross home from close in. Paul Green's spectacular diving header
five minutes later set up the lap of honour and wild celebrations.
Doncaster chairman John Ryan said the town should be "proud of its
football team. It feels wonderful, especially when you consider the hard
times in the Conference when we were on our knees," he told BBC Radio
Five Live. "We've got a tremendous team spirit, and when you're on
a roll, dreams come true. We're confident we can do quite well in the Second
Division. We're not going up just to make up the numbers."
Lions' UEFA Cup spot confirmed
Millwall have a UEFA Cup berth locked up, thanks to south-east London rivals
Charlton, who beat Liverpool 1-0 at Anfield yesterday. Manchester Utd.
can now finish no lower than fourth, which gives them a Champions League
place, so, regardless of the result in Cardiff, the Docklands club will
get a taste of European football in a major competition.
LuaLua likes the south coast
Newcastle striker Lomana LuaLua, on loan at Portsmouth, would like to move
to Fratton Park on a permanent basis. The 23-year-old Congo international,
brought south by Harry Redknapp in January, is due to return to St. James'
Park at the end of the season, though it is understood Newcastle could
recall him before then.
"I would like to stay," LuaLua said. "I'm made to feel wanted
at this club. I'm trying to repay everybody here by helping to keep them
in the Premiership. It is the only place to play football."
LuaLua has gone on to grab three goals since arriving on the South Coast
- including a vital equaliser against Newcastle. The striker also scored
an amazing solo goal in Portsmouth's 3-1 win over Birmingham at the weekend
to push them three points clear of the drop zone.
Controversy and def???? at Loftus Road
Neither side could spell defence yesterday as Fulham hosted Blackburn,
the visitors winning 4-3. The score could have been higher in an entertaining
game, as both Friedel for Rovers and van der Sar for the Londoners made
some good saves.
In deference to 'Huge Grunt', a regular correspondent on our message boards,
Blackburn took the lead after 23 minutes through Andy COLE. Fulham hit
back with two first half goals from Collins JOHN, the second on the stroke
of half-time.Within six minutes of the restart, the Lancashire lads had
restored their lead, Jonathan DOUGLAS and Lorenzo AMARUSO finding the back
of the net. Luis BOA MORTE got the Cottagers back on terms after an hour.
Jon STEAD, above, popped in the winner in the 75th minute.
The F.A. will investigate an early controversial 'non-call' when Fulham
defender Zat Knight allegedly headbutted Rovers' Jon Stead. The striker
fell to the ground after an apparent clash with Knight, although referee
Mike Dean did not see anything. The FA told BBC Sport: "We have requested
a video of the incident." Stead was able to carry on after treatment
and grabbed the winner for Blackburn to boost their Premiership hopes of
survival.
Stead told the Sun newspaper: "We were running back after a corner, when Knight pushed me and I accidentally caught his heel. Then he landed a nut on me."
Blackburn boss Graeme Souness added: "Knight will not be proud of that and he should have been sent off. The four officials were the only people in the stadium who did not see it. Knight was their biggest threat at set-pieces and their best defender so it could have cost us dear but we got away with it."
Fulham boss Chris Coleman is hoping the FA does not punish Knight. He said:
"Zat's lost his head for a moment but he is not a violent player and
I'll keep my fingers crossed he does not get a ban."
After the game, predictably, Souness praised his side's desire, while Coleman
was lamenting woeful defensive lapses.
Krasner puts ball in Gray's court, maybe
Leeds' chairman Gerald Krasner has hinted that caretaker boss Eddie Gray
could get the job on a more permanent basis, if he gets the necessary qualifications.
Gray needs a Uefa Pro License coaching certificate or a management diploma
if Leeds stay up - but the restrictions do not apply in Division One.
"Whether he will be here at the start of next season is up to Eddie,"
Krasner told BBC Radio Four. "He's got to decide certain things regarding
his qualifications. He doesn't have the official badge at this time and
I don't think we will get an extension into next season. Eddie is doing
more than a decent job as manager of Leeds and has always been part of
the club. We will sit down at the end of the season and have a chat."
McNamara set for another year
Celtic and Scotland defender Jackie McNamara has agreed a new one year
deal at Parkhead. It will be signed after the UEFA Cup Quarter Final 2nd
leg with Villarreal later this week.
"I'm glad the immediate future has been sorted out and I'm looking forward to my tenth season at Celtic," McNamara told the Daily Record. "There are lots of good players waiting to get a chance at Celtic so I feel privileged to play."
No testimonial match has been agreed yet with the 31-year-old.
Ross could be on the move
Maurice Ross' agent believes that Rangers may be ready to sell his client
in the summer, with Fulham and Norwich mentioned among possible destinations.
The 22-year-old, who has won 12 Scotland caps, despite having been second
choice right-back at Ibrox behind Netherlands international Fernando Ricksen
for much of this season, is prepared to stay at Ibrox and fight for his
place, despite losing out recently to youngster Alan Hutton.
John Viola said: "We have heard of interest from other clubs, but
nobody from Ibrox has come forward and said that he is not available. I
will be speaking soon to Rangers to see what they are saying."
Ross still has two years of his contract to run, but speculation suggests that the Glasgow club could be willing to accept £300,000 for the Scotland international.
Injury and suspension to the Dutchman led to manager Alex McLeish turning
instead to 19-year-old Hutton as cover in recent games. Hutton made such
an impression that he has held on to his place.
Stories from BBC Sports site.
Footiemad news item
April 12/04
Parker pencilled in for Portugal
England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson has hinted that Chelsea midfielder Scott
Parker could be in his Euro 2004 plans. Good news for Parker could spell
disappointment for club team-mate Joe Cole, who was not on the list of
Chelsea players the Swede named as likely to make his squad.
"It may complicate things a bit if Chelsea make the Champions League final," Eriksson told Spanish paper AS. "I am counting on John Terry, Frank Lampard, Wayne Bridge and probably Scott Parker."
Parker, who moved to Stamford Bridge from Charlton for £10m in January,
has made two substitute appearances for England. Cole has struggled to
establish himself in the Chelsea midfield since his £6m transfer from West
Ham in the summer.
Jeffers talks his way off team
Arsenal striker Francis Jeffers, on a season-long loan with Everton, has
had a bust-up with manager David Moyes and will not play for the Merseyside
club again. It is believed that he was angry at not starting against Spurs
on Friday.
"Everton can confirm that Francis Jeffers held talks with manager David Moyes on Friday," said the club. "During the course of that meeting Francis made certain statements, indicating that he no longer wished to play for the manager." The statement added: "In an attempt to resolve the situation David Moyes met with Francis for a second time on Saturday morning, giving him the opportunity to retract his statement - something he chose not to do. Under the circumstances Everton felt it was wholly appropriate to contact Arsenal to make them aware of the situation. Francis Jeffers' loan spell from Arsenal will end on 1 June when he will return to Highbury. Everton will be making no further comment on this matter."
Jeffers came on as a substitute against Spurs when he thought - with Wayne
Rooney, Duncan Ferguson and Kevin Campbell out - he would be starting.
Everton will continue to pay Jeffers until the loan expires and offer him
training facilities, with him likely to train with the Goodison Park youth
team. The loan move has not worked out as both parties had hoped, with
the striker starting just six games this season and making 13 substitute
appearances.
Bhoys burst Livi bubble
Celtic, with two goals from Chris Sutton and one from Henrik Larsson, beat
Livingston 3-1 in the Scottish Cup semi-final played yesterday. Colin McMenamin
scored the consolation goal for the Lothian side 10 minutes from time.
The Englishman's goals were his first ever in the competition.
There was some concern for Martin O'Neill when Sutton hobbled off late
in the game to be replaced by Craig Beattie and he also took Larsson off
for Johan Mjallby. Sutton aggravated a groin injury, however, he vowed
to be in the side for Wednesday's UEFA Cup 2nd leg match-up in Spain with
Villarreal
"It's a bit sore," he said. "I have had a problem the last
two weeks, but we will wait and see how it goes and hopefully it will settle
down. I've had it a while, but I have always managed to get through games.
I would walk through a brick wall to play."
With the UEFA Cup Final, should the Parkhead club get through, being played
on May 19, it would appear that the Scottish Cup Final on May 22 will almost
certainly be Larsson's last outing in the green and white hoops.
Stories from BBC Sports site.
Footiemad news item
April 11/04
Either use it or get off
Claudio Ranieri has reached a point, it seems, that most would have arrived
at some time ago. The gentlemanly Italian wants a decision on his future
at Stamford Bridge and, to that end, talks are scheduled with senior Chelsea
officials this week.
Ranieri has continually insisted he would like to remain in charge, but his agent, Jon Smith, said it was time all the speculation surrounding the Blues boss finally came to an end. "He (Ranieri) wants a decision," Smith told BBC's Sportsweek programme.
Ranieri's position has been under constant scrutiny ever since Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich took over the Premiership club, however, the former Valencia boss has seemingly strengthened his grip on the job after guiding the club into the Champions League semi-finals.
Should he part company with Chelsea, it appears Ranieri will have little
trouble gaining employment elsewhere, with Real Madrid reported to be interested
in his services. "A handful of clubs around Europe have contacted
us," said Smith, who said Ranieri's preferred choice would be to stay
at Stamford Bridge.
Hopefully he'll get his wish, plus a public apology from Kenyon and the
Chelsea brass for the nonsense that he has had to put up with this season.
I suspect the latter will be a long time coming.
The races are hotting up
While Bolton, Everton and Spurs are not out of the woods, it would increasingly
appear that the relegated threesome will come from the current bottom six.
Leeds, celebrating the opener yesterday above, picked up three points,
Man. City, Portsmouth and Wolves all got one, while Blackburn and Leicester
came up empty.
In Division 1, West Brom got a late goal from Lee Hughes, above, to beat
Gillingham 1-0 and keep pace with Norwich for the automatic promotion spots.
Sunderland appear to want a play-off spot, but the other three places are
wide open, with clubs from 4th down to14th all in with a chance and treating
them like hot potatoes. At the other end of the table, Wimbledon are already
certain of the drop and Bradford seem sure to join them. The other relegation
spot seems wide open and clubs from 15th to 22nd cannot be relaxing at
all.
Division 2 leaders Plymouth beat Wycombe 2-1 to stay clear at the top,
while QPR, 3-0 winners over Grimsby, put a little distance between themselves
and Bristol City, who drew with Swindon 1-1. Behind the top three, there
is a dogfight between 6 or 7 teams for the remaining play-off spots. At
the bottom, Wycombe seem a safe bet to go down and 8 clubs are seperated
by seven points in the race to avoid joining them.
Division 3 new boys Doncaster increased their lead with a 2-1 win at Bristol
Rovers, while 2nd place Hull lost 3-2 at home to Northampton. Huddersfield
beat Southend 1-0 to keep the pressure on the front runners. Carlisle,
who had appeared a certainty for Conference football next season, beat
Kidderminster 1-0 and are now in with a real chance of retaining their
Football League status.
Scottish Cup Semi Final
In the first of the Tennents Cup semi finals at Hampden Park yesterday,
Inverness CT got a goal from Paul Ritchie, above, to take the lead just
before half-time against Dunfermline. The Pars evened things through Craig
Brewster after 67 minutes and the game ended 1-1. The two clubs will go
at it again on April 20 at Pittodrie. The other semi final, between Celtic
and Livingston is being played today.
Stories from BBC Sports site.
Footiemad news item
April 10/04
Normal service has been resumed
After a week that had seen two huge disappoinments in the red and white
half of North London, Arsenal got back to the winning habit with a 4-2,
come from behind twice, win over Liverpool. Thierry Henry, who had been
doubtful for the game, scored a hat-trick and Robert Pires got the other.
Henry's second was out of a 'Roy of the Rovers' comic story. Liverpool
had goals from Sammy Hyypia and Michael Owen, a vintage Owen strike after
a magnificent pass from Steve Gerrard.
Anfield boss Gerard Houllier said: "I thought Arsenal were stunning in the second half. They couldn't play any better than that. Thierry's second goal was moment of brilliance. It was wonderful and we never looked like coming back. There is no point trying to make excuses because they were better than us. The game was decided by that moment from Thierry because it seemed to affect the morale of our team. I said Arsenal were like a wounded animal, We had more chances in the first half, but as soon as they got their second equaliser it gave them a lot of confidence. They are a great team. They showed why they are unbeaten in the league and they have got some of the best players in the world. It was a mental test for them and I expected them to show something."
Houllier added "We now have six big games of our own to play, and
I don't expect us to be the way we were in the second half."
Toffees top Tottenham
Everton beat Spurs 3-1 yesterday, in what turned out to be a comfortable
outing for the Goodison Park team. Manager David Moyes was extremely pleased
with his side's performance and is now looking to climb into the top half
of the table.
"I've said all along we should keep looking up and aim for the same points tally as last year," said Moyes of his side that finished seventh last season. "I definitely believe the players are good enough to be in that position, but the table doesn't lie. I will certainly be delighted when we get enough points to be safe. This result goes a long way towards doing that, but we shouldn't be a side just struggling year in, year out and we need to try and turn that around.
"You have to think, 'do you put up with it?' he added. "Well,
I don't want to put up with it, I want to be managing one of the teams
at the top of the league."
Understandably, Spurs caretaker boss David Pleat was somewhat less upbeat
about the performance of his team.
"We were very poor, particularly in the first 20 minutes, and it set the tone for the whole game," said Pleat. "We played negatively and without passion, we gave the ball away too often and were second-best everywhere. They did poorly and I don't take any comfort that in a difficult position we played with a little more fire in the second half. You have to start well
He added: "We shall want a response. There are not only a few wounded
hearts but also players are carrying knocks. However it was a bad result
and a bad performance. For the supporters who've made the long journey
to come and watch us, I feel for them because we succumbed far too easily.
verton showed far more thrust and far more drive, even though the goals
came from set plays."
Scottish Cup Semi Finals
Today Inverness Caledonian Thistle of Division 1 take on SPL side Dunfermline,
while tomorrow Scottish League Cup winners Livingston meet Celtic. The
winners will meet in the final on May 22 at Hampden Park.
Canvey Island are Ryman champions
Canvey Island clinched promotion to the Conference yesterday with a 2-1
win over Thurrock. It means they clinch the Ryman Premier Division title
with seven matches still to play after finishing runners-up in each of
the last three years. They now have a chance of a double with the FA Trophy
Final against Hednesford to be played in May. Ollie Berquez and Lee Boylan,
above, scored the Canvey goals with Cliff Akurang replying for Thurrock.
Canvey manager Jeff King told BBC Essex: "It's great - we got the
points we needed. I said to the lads at half-time we were treating it like
a testimonial, and that seemed to do the trick. I started here in 1992
and this is our seventh promotion, although we've been relegated once.
We go into the FA Trophy Final now as a Conference club and we're looking
forward to that. I knew from the beginning of the season we'd win the title,"
added a delighted King.
Regarding the Arsenal Treble T-shirt sale, referred to by an obviously
deranged Glasgow lad, on the home page..... just put them in storage ready
for next season.
Stories from BBC Sports site.
Footiemad news item
April 9/04
UEFA Cup Quarter Finals 1st leg
Newcastle and PSV Eindhoven drew 1-1. The Dutch side took the lead after
15 minutes when Mateja Kezman scored a great goal following a defensive
slip by Aaron Hughes. The Geordies equalized as Jermaine Jenas headed home
in first half injury time, shortly after a controversial incident in the
PSV goalmouth involving Titus Bramble. The defender escaped punishment,
somewhat fortunately. Both sides had chances in the second half, but in
the end neither deserved to win. Bobby Robson was very satified with the
result.
Celtic gave up an early goal to Villarreal, but came back to get a draw
when Henrik Larsson headed home in the 64th minute to even the score at
1-1. The Swede had the ball in the net 10 minutes earlier, but was denied
by the assistant referee's decision to penalize him for handball, as he
charged down a clearance from goalkeeper Reina and the ball found the net.
Larsson insists he should have been credited with two goals, although the
TV replays suggest the official may have got it right. Martin O'Neill was
delighted with his side's second half performance, which he called 'outstanding'.
In the other games, Marseille beat Inter Milan 1-0 and Valencia came back
from an early deficit to beat Bordeaux 2-1.
The 2nd legs will be played next Wednesday, April 14.
Today's Premiership games feature Arsenal and Liverpool, a game both need
to win, and Everton against Spurs, where both would like a win.
Carroll appears to have won the job
Manchester Utd.'s Irish international goalkeeper Roy Carroll appears to
have won the number one job at Old Trafford and the inside track on a Cup
Final start. Carroll has replaced American Tim Howard as first choice and
manager Alex Ferguson is set to retain him for the rest of the season.
Ferguson said: "Roy is a full international who has been with us for
three years and done fantastically well when whenever we've called on him.
We recognise Tim needs a break and needs time to regain his freshness.
Roy has come in and done brilliantly. He's been very patient in waiting
for his opportunity and he's proved his class when he's played for us."
Howard admits his team-mate has earned the right to keep his place. He
said: "I want to be out there playing, but the manager knows best
and I trust his judgement. It's difficult to watch from the stands when
you've been playing regularly but you have to give Roy credit. He's done
well and deserves to be playing right now. I know what he's capable of
because I train with him every day. Goalkeeper is a strange position because
you have to train with your immediate competitor every day and no quarter
is given. I definitely want to get back in the side as soon as possible
but it's up to the manager to make that choice."
Wiltord ready for Gunners' run-in
Sylvain Wiltord is fit and ready to return for the Gunners' final eight
games. The French international has been missing since December with an
ankle injury, but wants to help his side's title push as well as win a
place in France's Euro 2004 squad.
"It has been extremely frustrating for me to watch matches as it broke my heart that I couldn't play, but I am ready now," the forward said. "We have a lot of matches coming up in a short space of time so it is important to make yourself available."
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger said: "Sylvain is fit and ready to play again. He can play a part for us this season as he can play out wide or up front."
Wiltord's contract with Arsenal runs out at the end of the season but talks
over a new deal have stalled. "I have always said that I would love
to stay at Arsenal. I feel great here. I would like to play more but that,
at the moment, has not been possible," he said. "Talks have not
started again yet because we are entering the final stages of a very important
season but I am sure we will start talking after the season ends."
Like a wolf in the chicken coop
Former Chelsea chairman Ken Bates and Sheffield Wednesday have begun negotiations
with a view to Bates taking charge. If he is successful, the controversial
72 year old plans to dump chairman Dave Allen and manager Chris Turner.
He said: "It is one or the other in terms of Dave Allen or myself.
He says we aren't compatible and I'd agree. I was open-minded about Chris
Turner's future but now he has dug himself into a pit saying that I know
nothing about running a football club. Would he want to work for a chairman
who he believes knows nothing about running a football club?"
Bates was initially rebuffed by the Wednesday board when he first announced
plans to launch a takeover bid at Hillsborough, but negotiations are now
underway.. Lawyers acting on behalf of Bates and the club have exchanged
confidentiality agreements to prevent leaks. "Announcements will be
made as soon as the outcome of these negotiations has been reached,"
said a statement.
Stories from BBC Sports site.
Footiemad news item
April 8/04
Champions League Quarter Finals 2nd leg
I am still looking for two moons. After a pair of upsets on Tuesday night,
Monaco over Real Madrid being one of epic proportions, we had probably
the biggest turnaround in recent memory last night in north-western Spain.
Holders AC Milan went to Deportivo holding a three goal edge from the first
leg and, with their much vaunted defence, looked to be assured of a semi-final
berth. The home side proceeded to hit the net four times without reply
from the Italians and Deportivo la Coruna ran out 5-4 winners on aggregate.
In the other game Lyon and Porto played to a 2-2 draw, the Portuguese side
taking the tie on a 4-2 aggregate. To use an old cliche, that is why they
play the games. The atmosphere at Highbury, the Bernabeu and the San Siro
must be sombre. It's unusual for the bookies to get it so wrong.
UEFA Cup Quarter finals 1st leg
Tonight Newcastle visit PSV Eindhoven, who had been managed by Bobby Robson
in the 90's, while Celtic entertain Spain's Villarreal. Both games should
be electric. In the other match-ups, Bordeaux host Valencia, while Marseille
entertain Inter Milan.
Is the water at Highbury curative?
Thierry Henry could yet play a part in Arsenal's games this weekend. A
scan revealed his injury to be a back problem, rather than the hamstring
initially reported. Boss Arsene Wenger had ruled Henry out of this weekend's
games against Liverpool and Newcastle, but after the results of the scan,
Henry told French newspaper L'Equipe he still harboured hopes of playing.
"The plan is for me to have treatment and a test of my fitness a few
hours before the Liverpool match," he said. The prognosis looked bleaked
for Henry after he was substituted following a muted display in the midweek
Champions League defeat to Chelsea.
Wenger has already given two negative medical bulletins in the past week
only for his players - Jose Reyes and Fredrik Ljungberg - to make miraculous
recoveries. Arsenal could certainly use a fit Henry, after exits from the
Champions League and FA Cup left the Premiership title as their only chance
of silverware this season.
Sheringham to keep going
Portsmouth and former England striker Teddy Sheringham has no plans to
hang up his boots at the end of the season. The 38-year-old is out of contract
this summer and, although he is happy to stay at Fratton Park, he has not
ruled out a move.
"It is no good me saying I want to stay here if there is no offer,
so I'll wait and see what happens. I hope the boss still has faith in me,"
he said. "I certainly have and I want to carry on playing. There are
options open and I will have a look at them all."
City have plans for either side of the fence
Manchester City chairman John Wardle admits that plans are in place for
next season, regardless of the outcome of the current campaign. Kevin Keegan's
side are only four points above the drop zone and have debts of £70m.
"We have to be sensible about it. Contingency plans are in place if required but hopefully we won't need them," Wardle said. "But we weren't quite expecting we would be where we are today."
City go in to the Easter period in 16th spot, with just four points between them and relegation rivals Leeds and Leicester. They host bottom side Wolves on Saturday, with the chance to move even further clear of the danger zone.
Wardle added: "Hopefully we will get those two or three wins under our belt
that we need, then we can reflect on this season and do the job next time."
Angel's wings clipped
Aston Villa striker Juan Pablo Angel is expected to miss three weeks due
to a knee injury. The 21-goal Colombian's absence will deal a blow to Villa's
hopes of pushing for a spot in European football. His hectic schedule of
three games in eight days included a trans-Atlantic trek for an international
match.
Angel played for 45 minutes and scored in Villa's 1-1 draw with Manchester
City but has been forced to miss training. Villa's top scorer looks likely
to miss the next four games, although O'Leary is hoping he will return
before the end of the campaign.
Villa boss David O'Leary said: "He's been playing with a knee injury
and I think the Colombian trip has finally taken its toll." He told
Villa's official website: "He'll be out for about three weeks but
hopefully he'll be back for a couple of games before the end of the season.
It's obviously a blow when you look at our squad and see where the goals
have come from this season. I think the Colombian trip, with the air pressure,
the travelling, the game, coming back and playing with the injury, all
took its toll."
Villa's challenge for a Champions league spot has relied heavly on Angel's
goals.The Colombian has scored 14 of Villa's 39 Premiership goals, with
Darius Vassell the next highest scorer with eight.
Sutton and Thompson extend Celtic deals
Chris Sutton and Alan Thompson, above with manager Martin O'Neill, have
both signed two year contract extensions with the Scottish champions-designate.
The two Englishmen have been central to Celtic's success domestically and in Europe in recent seasons and will be tied to the Glasgow club until 2007. Manager Martin O'Neill denied he had given the players any assurances over his own future at the club.
"I just think the players enjoy their football and that's really important,"
said O'Neill. "When you are strong and winning things you want to
try and continue that for as long as possible. I am delighted that, with
the support of the board, we have been able to retain players of the quality
of Chris Sutton and Alan Thompson. Since we brought them to Celtic, both
players have given their all for the club and I know that the supporters
have recognised the magnificent contributions which they have made to the
team. Both Chris and Alan have been a credit to Celtic and I am sure they
will continue to be key players for us over the next three years."
World record for Cowes Sports F.C.
A new world record for the fastest goal is being claimed by Marc Burrows of Cowes Sports FC on the Isle of Wight. The ball hit the back of the net in TWO seconds according to the referee, which would beat the existing world
record, set by an Argentinian player at 2.8 seconds..Burrows shot straight
from the kick-off in Saturday's game against Eastleigh, and saw the ball
sail in. The Football Association is deciding whether to confirm the claim.
Burrows said: "I put the ball on the centre spot, and noticed the
'keeper was off his line. I looked at the referee and had a laugh with
him and said 'I'll have a shot from here'. He laughed and shrugged his
shoulders - blew his whistle, then the wind got hold of the ball and it
flew into the back of the net."
Southampton legend and ex-Eastleigh player Matt Le Tissier said: "It's
a world record - it's pretty special and he must be pretty proud of himself."
Burrows, a former trainee with Premiership side, Portsmouth, was playing for Cowes reserves in Sydenham's Wessex League. They won the match 5-3 and he scored a hat-trick.
The FA will accept the timing of the record goal if it is confirmed by
the referee. The current world record of 2.8 seconds was set by Argentinian
Ricardo Olivera for his side Rio Negro in the Uruguayan league in 1998.
FA officials say the fastest goal in the UK was scored by Barrow player
Colin Cowperthwaite when he scored in 3.5 seconds against Kettering in
1979.
Stories from BBC Sports site.
Footiemad news item
April 7/04
Champions League Quarter Finals 2nd leg
Congratulations are due to Chelsea and Monaco. Both advanced to the semi-finals
from very difficult positions yesterday. (It was also suggested to me that
I was less than effusive in my commentary on Manchester Utd.'s F.A. Cup
semi-final win on Saturday. This was not due to any sour grapes, just that
I imagined most people would have watched the game and, therefore, a couple
of lines describing the action would be redundant.) From a personal point
of view, the results of the last two Arsenal games have been a disappointment,
however, the games themselves have been excellent.
Chelsea overcame a one goal deficit at half-time yesterday to win the game
2-1 and the tie 3-2 on aggregate. Monaco went into yesterday's encounter
with Real Madrid trailing 4-2, but managed to beat the Spanish side 3-1,
for a 5-5 aggregate, and advance on the away goals rule.
I would be remiss if I didn't mention the joy on the face of 'the Garry's'
resident Blue, Michael Ferry, at the final whistle. He had previously suffered
through 17 games, mostly ending in disappointment, so chalk one up for
a Chelsea stalwart. I should also offer my congratulations to both footiemadmarty
and wee fergie, both United fans and regular contributors to the site.
Good luck to all of you in the next round. If there is any humble pie left,
I hope I won't have to finish it on Friday, to appease footiemadandy and
the redman.
In the two games to be played today Deportivo la Coruna host AC Milan and
have to try to overcome a 4-1 deficit, while Lyon face Porto and trail
2-0.
It never rains but it pours
Arsenal striker Thierry Henry left the game yesterday with a hamstring problem and has been ruled out of the weekend games with Liverpool and Newcastle. He has scored 31 goals so far in a prolific season, so will be sorely missed.
"He will be out for the weekend but it's difficult to say for how long after that," said boss Arsene Wenger.
Arsenal have a four-point lead in the Premiership and play Liverpool on
Friday followed by Newcastle on Sunday. Dennis Bergkamp could be called
on to partner Jose Antonio Reyes up front for Arsenal, while long-term
injury victim Sylvain Wiltord is also nearing full fitness.
The Gunners have eight Premiership matches left to play, with Leeds, Spurs, Birmingham, Fulham, Leicester and Portsmouth all on the horizon.
An unbeaten Premiership campaign, together with winning the championship,
would be some consolation.
Dons to Division 2
Wimbledon lost at home yesterday to beaten Cup semi-finalists Sunderland,
and are sure of relegation to Division 2 next season. The Dons avoided
relegation with a shock win at Wigan on Saturday but still needed a win
to be able, mathematically, to stay up. The Milton Keynes club, relegated
from the Premiership in 2000 became the first team in the Nationwide league
to be relegated or promoted.
Sunderland, who still have hopes of automatic promotion, made five changes
to the side that lost to Millwall in the FA Cup semi-finals.
Stories from BBC Sports site.
Footiemad news item
April 6/04
Champions League Quarter Finals 2nd leg
Arsenal and Chelsea go at it yet again at Highbury tonight, having drawn
the opener 1-1. The other match today sees Monaco at home to Real Madrid,
trying to overcome a 4-2 deficit from game 1.
Six years, 17 games and it's luck
Chelsea forward Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, the world-renowned deep thinker,
has opined that the Gunners run of success against the Blues has mostly
been due to luck.
"Arsenal have had luck on their side more often than not against us
but we are ready," said the 'Brain of the Bridge'. ."Sometimes
you have to go out and get luck yourself. All our players know what this
game is about. Everyone wants to do well and we are ready. You can feel
it and see it in each other's eyes - no-one is afraid. We believe we can
beat them and we have enough firepower to win any game."
The law of averages says, sooner or later, Chelsea will get a win. Tonight.....we'll
just wait and see.
Winter finishes on May 22
The referee once branded 'a joke' by Alex Ferguson will be in charge for
the Cup Final. Jeff Winter has been named to officiate at Millenium Stadium
on May 22 for the Manchester Utd./Millwall English season finale and will
retire after the game.
Dodd gone for season
Southampton skipper Jason Dodd will miss the rest of the season, but is
luckier than first feared. It was initially thought the Saints' defender
had suffered a cruciate ligament injury after a poor challenge by Wolves
striker Henri Camara at the weekend. However, a scan revealed a tear to
his left medial ligament.
Physio Jim Joyce told the club website: "The scan seems to show he
got off lightly. He is not going to play again this season so he can take
his time and be ready for pre-season for next term." A more serious
cruciate ligament injury could have threatened the 33-year-old's career.
Joyce said: "We did worry there might be a possibility of cruciate
damage but, touch wood, that does not seem to be the case. However, we
will have him seen by a knee specialist as a precaution, although we are
not expecting him to need surgery."
Camara recieved only a yellow card from referee Mark Halsey for the late challenge, which saw Dodd stretchered out of Saints' 4-1 win at Molineux.
Babbel wants return to the Pool
Liverpool defender Markus Babbel, on a year-long loan with Blackburn, has
expressed a desire to return to Anfield. The former German international
was dispatched to Ewood Park after falling out with manager Gerard Houllier,
who had criticized Babbel's attitude.
Babbel told The Independent newspaper: "The plan is that I will go
back to Liverpool at the end of the season. I would love to play there
again. I hope I can come back next season but all that is for the future.
This season I am a Blackburn player and will carry on doing my best for
them. In a perfect world for me I would be back here playing for Liverpool
next season in the Champions League."
Former minister gets Hearts' chair
George Foulkes, former Minister of State for Scotland, has succeeded Doug
Smith as chairman of Hearts. Smith resigned last night but insists that
it was not because he was against the proposed sale of Tynecastle and move
to Murrayfield.
"I remain of the opinion that this would be in the best interests of the club," he said, but admitted that he was disappointed that the board had been unable to persuade Hearts' fans.
There were hints, Foulkes revealed at a news conference, of some concessions, with Hearts admitting that it was still possible that the board could decide to remain at Tynecastle next season. It was being stressed, however, that the club would definitely move to Murrayfield for season 2005-06 and thereafter establish a working group to look at the long-term viability of remaining there. This appears to have led Smith and chief executive Chris Robinson to go their separate ways.
Hearts face a fans' revolt because of their plan to share the home of Scottish
rugby. Smith, who had served the board as non-executive director and chairman
following his appointment in the spring of 1997, had tried to be a peacemaker
between those who want to remain at Tynecastle and those who see no alternative
to moving to the nearby national rugby stadium. Robinson has argued that
selling Hearts' spiritual home and sharing Murrayfield next season is the
only way of preventing the club going into administration. That has angered
many Hearts fans, who insist that a sizeable proportion of the club's support
will not travel less than a mile to the rugby ground to watch their team.
Stories from BBC Sports site.
Footiemad news item
April 5/04
May 22/04
It's Manchester Utd. v Millwall in the Cup Final. The south-east London
side beat Sunderland, for the third time this season, 1-0 in yesterday's
semi-final at Old Trafford. This will be the first appearance in the May
showpiece for the Lions. The cup run has added about £2.5m to the coffers
of the club, according to chairman Theo Paphitis.
Another year, but....
Dennis Bergkamp can have another contract at Highbury, but cannot expect
to be an automatic selection to the line-up, according to manager Arsene
Wenger. The Dutchman wants to finish his career with one more season at
Highbury.
Wenger said: "He deserves a new contract as he's been amazing, but you have to consider, at his age, that it is short-term. It also depends on him. Will he accept that the time comes that you're not an automatic choice?"
Bergkamp, 34, has already stated that Arsenal will be his last club but he is keen to tie up a new one-year deal as soon as possible. However, he looks likely to face stern competition from new signing Jose Antonio Reyes to partner Thierry Henry up front next season.
"We are getting closer to the end of the season and I still don't
want to give up," Bergkamp said recently. "I still love my football
and there hasn't been a sign yet that has made me think this should be
my last season. I've been a footballer since I was 12 and I enjoy it, maybe
more now than I did before because in this team, with these players, there's
so much to look forward to."
Houllier feisty after win
Michael Owen scored two in Liverpool's 4-0 demolition of Blackburn yesterday,
to move the club back into fourth place in the race to secure Champions
League football next season. Anfield boss Gerard Houllier admitted his
side's confidence had taken a beating at times during the season because
of the criticism directed at it.The Frenchman called for his players to
raise their game with "seven cup finals" left for them to claim
a Champions League place.
"We have taken so much stick this season it has been affecting the
players' confidence," said Houllier after Sunday's win. "We have
been told we have been producing 'garbage' and that is wrong." He
continued "It was a good game, a good performance and I am proud of
my players. We started very well and the game was over in 25 minutes. We
applied our basic principles and we have played better and not got anything
from games this season. But this time we got the result we deserved. Our
passing, movement and interchanging was outstanding. You work on things
on the training ground and sometimes they do not come off, but this time
they did."
Houllier also said that he expects Owen to sign a new contract before long.
"I'm convinced Michael will stay. I expect an announcement before
the and of the season. That will be a huge boost for the fans after a disappointing
season. Whatever he does I will respect his decision."
Swans get Jackett
Former Welsh international Kenny Jackett has become Swansea's sixth manager
in two and a half years. He has been assistant boss at Queens Park Rangers
for three years, but quit to accept a contract at the Vetch Field running
to the end of 2005/06. The South Wales side took their time seeking a replacement
for Brian Flynn, who left the post in March. It is understood Jackett beat
off the likes of ex-England defender Mark Wright to get the job.
Swansea chairman Huw Jenkins told BBC Radio Wales that out of all the candidates who had put their name forward, Jackett had shown the most desire to get the job. "He's probably the most experienced 42-year-old in the Football League with his coaching knowledge," Jenkins added. "He's young, professional, organised, committed and passionate. He's certainly the right man at the right time to come to take the club forward."
Jackett made all his Wales appearances in defence and midfield, primarily
on the left, while playing for Watford in the 1980s. In 1990 he became
the youth team coach at Vicarage Road and was promoted to assistant manager,
a job he held until Gianluca Vialli's arrival in May 2001. Jackett was
then snapped up by QPR manager Ian Holloway. Alan Curtis has been caretaker
manager at the Vetch Field since Flynn and assistant Kevin Reeves departed
"by mutual consent".
You need a passport, mate
Arsenal's Brazilian midfielder Edu has thought about an international career
with England, as he has somehow been ignored by selectors in his homeland.
The 25 year old left-sided player has had a great season with the Gunners
and might just be an answer to Sven-Goran Eriksson's prayers. However,
it is all hypothetical as it sits at the current time.
An FA spokesman said: "Edu is not a British citizen, so this is a
non-issue at the moment." He added: "Fifa regulations say if
you are a national of a country and have not represented another country
at senior level, you may play for any other countries that you are eligible
for. Two years' residence in a country means a footballer can be naturalised
to that nation's team if he has not previously played at senior international
level, and if he gains a UK passport."
It's decision time, old chap.
Stories from BBC Sports site.
Footiemad news item
April 4/04
The second F.A. Cup semi-final kicks off in a couple of hours at Old Trafford
between Millwall and Sunderland. The winner will play Manchester Utd at
the Millenium Stadium, Cardiff on May 22.
The Division 2 race tightened a little yesterday. Leaders Plymouth lost
1-0 at Barnsley, while second place QPR went down by the same score at
third place Bristol City. City are now level on points with Rangers, although
the London club have a game in hand. Brighton moved up to fourth with a
2-0 win over Hartlepool.
In Division 3, Doncaster beat Bury to open the gap at the top to three
points. Second place Hull could only manage a 1-1 draw at Kidderminster
and third place Huddersfield did the same at Leyton Orient. Both have a
game in hand on the leaders, although Huddersfield are nine points back.
It sure beats a paper route
The youngest professional player of the modern era made his debut yesterday.
Ghanaian-born Freddy Adu played for DC United against the San Jose Earthquakes
as the U.S. soccer season kicked off. He has attracted interest from Manchester
Utd., Chelsea and Inter Milan, among others. He is the highest paid player
in the U.S. league, as well as having a million dollar sponsorship deal,
at the ripe old age of 14.
During his team's 2-1 victory at the RFK stadium, he only touched the ball
on about 10 occasions - but each time was cheered by the crowd.
Before the game, Freddy himself said he was unfazed by the prospect. "I
feel like if you're good enough, you're old enough. I don't care how much
older someone is than I am. I don't care how much bigger someone is than
I am. I go out there to play the game and have fun."
He was approached by some of the world's major clubs, but eventually decided
to sign for DC United so he could stay at home. He has already represented
the US at under-17 and under-20 levels, and the American football authorities
are hoping that Freddy can improve the sport's standing in a country more
interested in baseball, basketball and American football.
Stories from BBC Sports site.
Footiemad news item
April 3/04
Gunners stay on track for double
Manchester Utd. went through to the Cup Final with a 1-0 win over Arsenal.
They now await the winner of tomorrow's Division 1 match-up between Millwall
and Sunderland to know who they will face at Cardiff next month. My much
hoped for North London double went totally down the toilet as Chelsea edged
Spurs 1-0. Glad I didn't bet the house today.
Close but no cigar
Up in Haggisville, Celtic got an injury time goal from Didier Agathe to
salvage a 2-2 draw with Hearts at Parkhead and maintain their unbeaten
season in the SPL. In fact, with only two minutes of regulation time left
the Glasgow side trailed by two. A valiant effort by the Edinburgh lads
News will be later today, as there is much footie to watch. A North London
double would be nice. footiemadandy suffering from severe brain cramps.
More later.
Footiemad news item
April 2/04
Semi-final mind games
Earlier in the week, Arsene Wenger suggested he would rest Thierry Henry
for the F.A. Cup semi-final at Villa Park tomorrow. He is now allowing
that it is within the realms of possibility the league's top striker will
be on view. What a shock!!!!!!
Not to be outdone, Alex Ferguson is now saying Ruud van Nistelrooy is a
major doubt because of a knee injury picked up last Sunday. The midseason
malcontent from Fulham is cup-tied, therefore unavailable, leaving Diego
Forlan as the possible strike force.I don't think so!!!!!
A loss in this game will be unacceptable to either side. From an Arsenal
perspective, the treble is at stake. The Gunners really want to achieve
this, so will go into the game with their best available squad. If they
want to rest anybody, it will be in a league game, as they still have a
seven point cushion and a point dropped will not be a disaster, although
a loss would be a disappointment as they try for an unbeaten Premiership
campaign. In the Champions League, every game is now of paramount importance,
so no rest for anyone in that competition.
Manchester Utd.'s whole season now is down to this game. A loss tomorrow
will doom them to a season with nothing to show. After the somewhat difficult
period, both on and off the pitch, the Old Trafford club will keep nothing
in reserve for down the road. Too easily, Villa park could prove to be
the end of the season, for all intents and purposes.
Expect to see both Henry and van Nistelrooy start and be going full tilt
until the game is decided. It should be a dandy.
Kennedy may miss a year
International friendlies are just great, ask Celtic. Young defender John
Kennedy could miss the next year or more following his 14 minute appearance
for Scotland on Wednesday against Romania. On his debut for his country,
the 20 year old was stretchered off after 14 minutes with a severe knee
injury. He was the victim of a lunging tackle from Wolves striker Vio Ganea
at Hampden Park.
A statement on Celtic's website said: "He will require surgery and could be out for at least a year. MRI scans have shown that John has sustained multiple injuries to his left knee, which includes damage to his cruciate and lateral ligaments."
Scotland Under-21 captain Kennedy had been drafted into the senior squad
after impressive performances against Barcelona and Rangers in recent weeks.
He told the Sun newspaper: "My knee is in bits at the moment. I'm
still in shock, it's so hard to take in. Everything has been going brilliantly
for me in the last few weeks, so this is pretty devastating. I saw the
boy coming towards me and at the time I didn't think he was going for the
ball. I'm not happy about it, but there's not much I can do now. It was
fantastic to have been picked for my country, but now I'm just totally
gutted."
Let's hope the lad makes a complete recovery as quickly as possible. Scotland,
like any other country, can ill afford to lose home grown talent such as
this in a meaningless kick-about. When will the powers-that-be get back
on planet Earth, forget their own aggrandisement, take a realistic view
of the schedules of the top clubs, particularly at this stage of the season,
and govern themselves with some consideration for those who stand to lose,
the clubs, and those who foot the bill, the fans. The fan wants to see his country do well in international competition,
but let it be meaningful competition like the World Cup or Euro 'whatever'.
Imagine a 20 year old Zinedine Zidane suffering a career threatening injury
in a France v Luxembourg friendly 14 or 15 years ago.The same can be said
of Pele 40 years ago.
On the same subject
Europe's top clubs have started legal proceedings against Fifa to try to
get compensation for the use of their players at the World Cup.The G14 group has filed a complaint with the Swiss Competition Commission
who are investigating the claim. The clubs are unhappy that players often
return injured from international duty at key stages of the season and
feel they should be compensated.
Fifa president Sepp Blatter has previously rejected the clubs' claims.
The commission said in a statement on Friday the G14 group, which includes
Real Madrid, Manchester United and Bayern Munich, had complained about
the Fifa regulation concerning the release of players. This complaint concerns
points of dispute between clubs and national teams, particularly concerning
clubs making players available to national teams for free for competitions
organised by Fifa. The preliminary inquiry will aim to show if there are
elements of illicit competitive restrictions under Fifa rules."
In this instance, the club's have the moral high ground with FIFA and Blatter
at the bottom of a mineshaft.
Stories from BBC Sports site.
Footiemad news item
April 1/04
International friendlies ZZZzzzzzzzzz
England and Scotland were both beaten. Wales, Northern Ireland and the
Republic of Ireland were winners. The North's win was its first in 16 games.
France's 14 game winning streak was ended. Italy beat Euro 2004 hosts Portugal.
Germany hammered Belgium. It was all done with many squads not even remotely
resembling those that will be picked for the European championships in
the summer, or World Cup qualifying games later in the year. In England's
case, it would seem that more players have played themselves out of, rather
than into, contention for the summer extravaganza.
Leeds on Smith alert
Leeds striker Alan Smith says, to no-one's surprise, that he will leave
the club if they are relegated. The Elland Road side are currently second-from-bottom
of the Premiership as they battle for top-flight survival. Smith believes
he will have no other option but to go in order to save his career if the
Yorkshire outfit are in Division One next season.
"If we go down, then obviously it will be time to move on, for the sake of my England career as well," said the 23-year-old. "But never have I come out and said I'd leave if we stayed up. If we stay in the Prem