Footiemad news item

December 31/03

I was late getting started this morning and have been running around all day, so will catch up with the news tomorrow (next year). For now I would just like to wish you all a very happy and prosperous New Year



Footiemad news item

December 30/03

Arsenal goalkeeper Jens Lehmann will be reported to the F.A. for throwing the ball at Southampton striker Kevin Phillips after the final whistle of yesterday's game at St. Mary's, won by the Gunners 1-0. Referee Steve Dunn, who had an excellent game in the middle, intervened before the two players got into more trouble. The pair had clashed a couple of times during the match, most notably when Phillips stood on the German's foot prior to a corner. "It was a keenly contested game," said Dunn. "I didn't book anyone because the laws state that once the final whistle has gone a player can not be cautioned or sent off. If there has been an incident after the whistle it must be reported to the FA Afterwards Lehmann came in and apologised to me - that's nice, but it won't change what's in my report." Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger said: "Jens should not have thrown the ball like that - it was done out of frustration."

Manchester Utd. captain Roy Keane would like to see the club go shopping for a striker. The Irishman is hopeful that manager Alex Ferguson will add to the squad during the January transfer window, even though they are currently in first place. Keane believes United must not rely on prolific striker Ruud van Nistelrooy to keep them there. "Please God nothing happens to Ruud van Nistelrooy because maybe we are not as strong up front as people think we are," he said, adding "The spirit amongst the squad is outstanding, but I still think we could do with another one or two players. When you bring someone in, it gives everyone a lift and I know myself from when the manager buys a midfield player it makes you step up another level. The manager is always looking at the bigger picture but squad-wise we came up a little bit short last year."

Manchester Utd. will be unable to appeal the red card shown to Darren Fletcher in Sunday's game with Middlesborough, as it was the result of a second yellow. F.A. rules only allow appeals against yellow cards in the case of mistaken identity. "We will not be appealing," confirmed United spokesman Paddy Harverson. "Under the rules as we understand them, you cannot appeal against two yellow cards." An FA spokesman confirmed that view, despite Alex Ferguson's earlier insistence that "there is plenty of evidence for an appeal."

Liverpool skipper Steve Gerrard will likely miss two weeks after suffering a thigh strain on Sunday. He is certainly ruled out of the Cup clash with Yeovil on the weekend. Anfield boss Gerard Houllier has been without strikers Michael Owen and Milan Baros this term, while Jamie Carragher and keeper Chris Kirkland remain out. Steve Finnan is also struggling to overcome a calf injury and Houllier blames the injuries for his side's failure to challenge for honours. "It's not an excuse, this is a fact," said Houllier "With the injuries we have had, we have been unable to challenge the top three. Realistically, now we have to compete for fourth place with a number of other teams." .But Houllier did receive some good news, with Owen hopeful of being ready to figure at Third Division Yeovil on Sunday.

Port Vale have been saved by a consortium led by lifelong fan Peter Jackson. There had been speculation that Sunday's game against Stockport may have been the club's last. The consortium will purchase 30,000 shares at £5 a share to provide the club with an immediate injection of £150,000 to stabilise finances. Jackson had to overcome a rival bid for Vale from Italian football agent Gianni Paladini. "The investment ensures the future of the club is safe," chairman Bill Bratt told BBC Radio Stoke.He added: "I believe the best decision has been made for the club and its supporters. We now have a solid foundation on which to build for the future and achieve our aim in progressing Port Vale both on and off the field." The consortium - which will have a minority shareholding - will also take up an option to buy the remaining shares and have two seats on the board. Jackson said: "We believe the club has great potential and we are confident we can introduce the right business management to enable the club to realise that potential." The club is currently the subject of a Football League transfer embargo because of its financial difficulties.

Businessman Eddie Davies has taken control at Bolton after investing another 2.25 million, increasing his holding in the parent company, Burnden Leisure plc, from 29.7% to 94.5%. Davies, who has already invested a sizeable sum in the club, is credited with the team's continued ability to remain in the Premiership despite a heavy debt load. The move was approved at yesterday's Annual General Meeting.

Division 1 Stoke City have acquired Arsenal midfielder Sebastian Svard on loan until the end of the season. The Danish U-21 international joined the Gunners in August 2000, but has only seen action in three cup games during his time at Highbury. He was recently loaned out to former club F.C. Copenhagen.
Stories from BBC Sports site.



Footiemad news item

December 29/03


Darren Fletcher was sent off yesterday for a second bookable offence during the win at the Riverside. Needless to say, Alex Ferguson was unhappy and is planning an appeal. "He is a 19-year-old lad and it was ridiculous," Ferguson told MUTV. "We will have to have a look at the video but there is plenty of evidence for an appeal." Ferguson added: "I think the crowd got to the referee. Darren was disappointed - he's not that type of player and never has been." Middlesborough keeper Mark Schwartzer made a great second half save from a Paul Scholes volley, which he somehow managed to tip against the crossbar, to keep the score at 1-0.


Fulham manager Chris Coleman was unhappy with the way the team folded yesterday at Villa Park and vowed to bring in some new faces. The London side were well beaten, despite looking livelier than Aston Villa in the opening stages. "I need to bring in two or three new faces," Coleman said. "Although I am disappointed, the lads have been magnificent but we do need a bigger squad. We started the better team, played some good stuff and had a few chances, but then we gave away a sloppy goal. It was not a disaster when we came in at half-time and I wanted us to come out and take the game to Villa but we just folded. That is disappointing from my point of view and it's the first time I've seen that happen for a long time - it was poor. We lost all our individual battles and our passing was poor."


Leeds' caretaker boss Eddie Gray is still worried about his team's ability to avoid relegation after the 3-1 defeat at Molineux. Wolves closed the gap a little on the Elland Road club with the 3-1 win. He said: "I don't agree with the assumption that we are too good to go down. Our position in the league says it all. I'm not happy with the performance. I felt Wolves deserved to win the game. Overall we never passed the ball well, and although I think the boys are working really hard that is something you have to do if you want to stay up. But I would like to think this is just a setback. I hope the players feel like that because that's how I feel."


Claudio Ranieri is once again hearing speculation on his dismissal., despite Chelsea's win over Portsmouth. The Italian laughed off reports in the Spanish press that his position at Stamford Bridge is tenuous. The Chelsea boss said: "I work very well here and will continue here. In Italy when Chelsea win, it is 'Chelsea win' or 'Abramovich wins' or 'Gudjohnsen wins'. When Chelsea lose, it is 'Ranieri loses' but that is normal. In the first half we werea little anxious and Portsmouth started well. The second half was much better and we deserved to win. I was waiting for this result and this performance. We knew December had been a bad month for us. We are sure the new year will be better." Ranieri also dismissed title talk, admitting his side still lag behind Manchester United and Arsenal, saying "Are we like Manchester United and Arsenal? No. Our pedigree is not like them. They must win the title, we must fight with them."


Manchester City boss Kevin Keegan was enthusiastic in his praise of striker Robbie Fowler, above, who scored the equalizer in the last minute of injury time to get the draw with his former club Liverpool. His performances, of late, have been more like those of a few years ago when he wore a Liverpool jersey. It was the ex-England man's third goal in six games and Keegan claimed the man who cost £6m from Leeds 12 months ago is now ready to hit top form. "A lot of people have knocked Robbie Fowler since we signed him but what they have ignored is his lack of fitness," said the City boss. "He was way off fitness when he arrived but he came back early for pre-season training because he knew he needed to do more to get up to the level he needed to be at. His work has paid off because I don't think he ran as much when he was 18. What we have always known about him is that he will score goals. You can lose confidence and fitness but if you are a world-class finisher you don't lose that."


Crystal Palace's new manager Iain Dowie was delighted to get his first win with the club at Ipswich and admits it is a big psychological plus before next week's F.A. Cup 3rd round game against Spurs at White Hart Lane He said: "Getting my first win with Palace was a huge boost. It gets the monkey off our backs and sets up an FA Cup tie against Tottenham at White Hart Lane magnificently. Ipswich is a daunting place to visit and to meet a manager in Joe Royle who knows his way around in football. They had craft and guile and we faced a big task.".

Today Arsenal visit St. Mary's, a game they would like to win to keep pace with Manchester Utd. Southampton, meanwhile, will be smarting from their Boxing Day loss at Fulham. The Saints' will be keen to make amends and move back into the top five.
Stories from BBC Sports site.



Footiemad news item

December 28/03


F.A. chief executive Mark Palios has defended the decision to ban Rio Ferdinand for eight months. Palios told the News of the World: "After this case, I don't think any club will allow a player to miss a drugs test." He added: "If a bus runs over me tomorrow and that is all we ever achieve then it was worth it for that." Manchester Utd. has called the punishment 'savage'. They are both wrong! He should have been suspended for two years, after which there would probably be a marked improvement in his memory capability.


Portsmouth midfielder Tim Sherwood will miss the rest of the season. He suffered a double fracture of a leg during the Boxing Day win against his old club, Spurs. He was stretchered off after a tackle by Mauricio Taricco. This will add to manager Harry Redknapp's problems as his squad is not huge and he will be looking to get a couple of bodies during the transfer window in January.

The EPL has a near full slate of games scheduled for today, the exception being the Southampton match with Arsenal at St. Mary's tomorrow. The Nationwide is also busy with action in all three league divisions.


In the SPL yesterday, Partick Thistle, bottom of the table by the same distance, approximately, as it is from Glasgow to Aberdeen, whipped fourth place Dunfermline 4-1. This ended a six game unbeaten streak for the Pars. Both Celtic and Rangers are concerned that their domination of the Scottish game is being threatened. Goals from Thomson, Ross and Grady with a brace sent Jags fans home in ecstasy. Celtic, meanwhile, hammered Hibs 6-0 to take revenge for their recent defeat by the Edinburgh club in the CIS Cup quarter final.
Stories from BBC Sports site.



Footiemad news item

December 27/03


Liverpool keeper Chris Kirkland suffered a fractured finger in the game with Bolton yesterday and could be out for a month. Manager Gerard Houllier was upbeat, however, with the 3-1 win over the Trotters, who had earlier knocked the Anfield side out of the Carling Cup, beaten Chelsea at Stamford Bridge and drawn with Arsenal.


Alan Curbishley, Charlton's manager, has his feet firmly on the ground regarding the Addicks' European chances after their huge win over Chelsea at the Valley. The home side were very impressive in the 4-2 victory. He was in a cautious mood as he said: "It was a big game and a great performance and result but we won't get carried away. I think Liverpool and Newcastle will make up the top five over the course of the full season. You'll see them come through but, after that, this league is very tight. You can be sitting fourth now but with a bad run you could finish fourth from bottom. It's nice though to be in a decent position coming up to the half-way mark."


Fulham boss Chris Coleman is adamant that striker Louis Saha, who got both goals against the Saints to bring his season's tally to 12, will be with the Cottagers until at least the end of the current campaign despite the interest from Old Trafford. The in form Frenchman still has two and a half years left on his contract. "He's not for sale and that's it. It may be a dream to play for them but not in January," said Coleman. "He's flattered because of Manchester United's interest in him but he's got two-and-a-half years left on his contract and that's that. He will be staying here at least until the end of the season. Even if you don't know about football and you've come to watch your first match you would see that he's got everything. He's good in the air, has two good feet, and I think he would agree he's playing the best football of his life."


Still with Fulham, Coleman has confirmed the club are close to concluding a deal with Arsenal to sign defender Moritz Volz on a permanent basis. The German youngster joined Fulham in August on loan and has impressed as Coleman's side have climbed to fourth in the table. Coleman said: "We want to keep him and we're very close to doing a permanent deal with Arsenal. It's just a case of agreeing personal terms with him." Volz played 10 games for First Division Wimbledon on loan last season.

Manchester Utd.'s defensive problems are growing. John O'Shea injured a hamstring on Boxing Day and is definitely out of Sunday's game with Middlesborough. Mikael Silvestre is also doubtful for the Riverside clash after picking up a knee injury in the win over Everton. This could result in the return of Wes Brown, who has played just twice for the reserves following his lengthy spell on the sidelines. Alternatively, either Roy Keane or Gary Neville could be slotted into a central defensive role

Norwich, who top Div 1 after wins either side of Xmas, have finally come to terms with Darren Huckerby. The 750,000 pound deal looked to be on the rocks a couple of days ago, with the striker slamming the East Anglia club for a lack of flexibility in the negotiations between the two sides. They have now come to terms, Huckerby signing a two and a half year deal, and everyone is happy.


Div 2 side Port Vale could be playing their last match on Sunday when they entertain Stockport at Vale Park. Vice-chairman Charles Machin says the club could cease to exist if a deal with prospective new owner Gianni Paladini is not concluded by Monday. Captain Sam Collins, however, says Vale need to concentrate on the match and build on the win over Sheffield Wednesday. "If we do that we will be in a great position going into the New Year," said Collins.

Still with Div 2, Plymouth, 2-0 winners at Bournemouth, have extended their lead to four points as second place QPR were held to a 3-3 draw by Notts County. Barnsley beat Hartlepool 2-1 and Brighton hammered Wycombe 4-0 to keep up the pace. Bristol City were winners and leap frogged Colchester, who were held to a draw at home to Luton.

New boys Doncaster continue to lead Div 3 with a 1-0 win over Scunthorpe, while second place Oxford stay a point back after beating Leyton Orient 2-1. Mansfield and Hull were both winners and climbed above Yeovil who lost at home to Kidderminster. Lincoln moved into sixth spot with a 1-0 win over Boston, while Torquay and Swansea played to a 0-0 draw.

The action resumes today in Scotland. In the early game, Hearts and Motherwell both appeared to be suffering from too much festive cheer and played to a painfully dull 0-0 draw.

In a story from the BBC World News, Manchester Utd. and N. Ireland legend George Best, shown above with his wife Alex in happier times, was arrested and held by police for 10 hours over an alleged assault. Best, 57, was arrested at 0200 GMT on Friday in Reigate, Surrey. He was released without charge at midday and police said no accusations were being pursued by "any party". This is the second time in the last six months that Best has been taken in by the 'boys in blue'
Stories from BBC Sports Site.



Footiemad news item

December 26/03

Sheffield Utd. midfielder Michael Brown will move to Tottenham on January 1. The 26 year old, whose current deal runs out at the end of the season, is believed to have cost 500,000 pounds. As a result of a ban, Brown won't make his Spurs debut until at least January 17 against Liverpool.

Oft injured Wes Brown has declared himself ready to return to the Manchester Utd. line-up. He has been sidelined since the final day of last season with a ruptured knee ligament. This will be a huge boost for the Old Trafford club, who, at some stage, will be without the services of Rio Ferdinand. He completed a full 90 minutes in a training game against Burnley at United's training ground on Wednesday. "If the manager needs me I am there to be put in. I got through the full game and everything went well," said Brown. "There is no problem with my knee now. It's just a question of getting in as many matches as I can."

Middlesborough boss Steve McClaren has warned his previous club that they will not get Gareth Southgate as a short term replacement for Ferdinand. The 33 year old central defender has been linked with Manchester Utd. as a stop gap with Diego Forlan moving to the Riverside. But McClaren, who made Southgate his first capture in a £6.5m deal in the summer of 2001, has vowed to do all he can to keep the England rearguard. "It's up to us. We don't want to let him go. He's played here for the last two-and-a-half seasons, played very well, got in the England squad, went to a World Cup and I fully expect him to play well for the next three or four months and go to Portugal."

A second Rangers bid, this time of 100,000 pounds, for Gavin Rae has been rejected by Dundee. The financially troubled Dens Park club insist they will not take less than 250,000 for the Scotland midfielder. Gers had originally offered 50,000, which manager Jim Duffy called "disgusting". "I don't know if Rangers will come back in," said Duffy. "But, as far as I am concerned, if they do, they'll need to be ready to meet our price. The £100,000 offered was totally unacceptable. They are trying to cash in on our situation and get an international player for what is a derisory sum." The 25-year-old Rae, out of contract in the summer, is their most saleable asset. "They maybe think because our backs are tight to the wall we'll accept their bid, but we will not," said Duffy "Our situation and the financial climate within the game was taken into account when we came up with the £250,000 asking price and, as far as I am concerned, we won't budge. Remember, Rangers wouldn't be signing Gavin for five months, it would likely be for three-and-a-half years - and getting a player of his quality for that period of time for just £250,000 would represent a phenomenal piece of business. It's bully-boy tactics that are being employed. Reputation-wise, Rangers are one of the biggest clubs around and for them to behave as they have done is shabby and insulting at best.".

Dunfermline striker Craig Brewster has rejected a new deal to stay with the club, but chairman John Yorkston says there's very little room for negotiation. The 37-year-old said he was unwilling to take the 50% cut in wages offered to him. Yorkston maintains the club can only offer what they can afford. "I don't think there is much flexibility. We have cut down the size of the squad and we cannot keep putting wages up forever," he insisted. Brewster acknowledged that clubs were having to tighten their belts in the current financial climate, but added: "I told the manager the offer was unacceptable. If he wants to come back to me he can, but a 50% cut is not acceptable in my opinion. He just said 'We'll see' so I don't know what's going to happen.The 11 other players who are out of contract are probably taking a cut but if I wasn't playing or on the bench every week then I would accept it. But I think I've given Dunfermline a decent shift over the past 18 months.I've got the option to go back to Greece but there's still six months to play here and the Uefa Cup is our aim.".
Stories from BBC Sports site



Footiemad news item

December 25/03


MERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOU ALL.



Footiemad news item

December 24/03

According to an article in the Daily Telegraph, the F.A. had wanted a two year ban on Rio Ferdinand. It also claims that the F.A.'s prosecuting solicitor asked for at least a one year suspension. (Why ask for one year when you want two? That doesn't seem too swift). The F.A. has subsequently denied this story. Even Alex Ferguson has admitted, for the first time, that the defender was in the wrong, but added the club will still stand by him. (Instead of wasting time and money on fruitless appeals, why don't they just make a donation to The Society for Brain Transplants for Really Stupid Players).

Darlington, currently 23rd in Div 3, despite moving into a new 27,000 capacity stadium, have been placed in administration. Chairman George Reynolds, above, blamed the Quakers' cash problems on difficulties putting the new stadium to non-football uses. Reynolds claimed he took the action in a bid to prevent the club being wound up by the Inland Revenue. He said: "It's very sad news. We've tried very hard, built the stadium and worked untold hours. If you look at other stadiums, they are allowed to do car boot sales, markets, and computer and antique fairs - but we're not. We're not allowed to make any money. I warned Darlington Borough Council four months ago - they've not been bad. I'm not going to criticise them because they've got a job to do - but it's a long process. It's taken a long time." However, Reynolds believes the club can survive, with the co-operation of everyone in the town. He continued: "We're sitting ducks but the club will turn around if everyone gets behind it. We can survive.My message to the fans is this. If the fans and the business people in the town get behind us we will dance through this. I paid off a £5.2m debt when I came in in seven days - I've put my heart and soul into this club. But I've never had a year like this in my life - it's been an awful year for me." Despite the club's financial problems, Reynolds says he does not regret getting involved with the Quakers. He added: "I didn't support Darlington but I couldn't bear the thought of 120-odd years of history going out the window - that's why I became involved."

Everton will not hold talks with Wayne Rooney about a new contract until the summer. Negotiations had been expected to begin prior to the New Year, although the teenager still has two and a half years left on his current deal. The same applies to Canadian striker Tomasz Radzinski, who has 18 months to run on his current contract. Toffees' boss David Moyes wants to explore all his options. The club are expected to let several out of contract players leave at the end of the season, reducing the wage bill and freeing up cash for more high profile stars.

Newcastle midfielder Lee Bowyer may require surgery to fix a hip injury, which could see him miss three months. He has not played since November 29, when he was substituted, and has consulted a specialist

Darren Huckerby, who has just completed a three month loan spell at Norwich, cannot agree terms to make the move permanent. He has slammed the Carrow Road club after the two sides failed to come together. The Canaries had agreed a fee of 750,000 with Manchester City and it was thought that the striker really wanted to go to East Anglia. Huckerby said: "I spurned the chance to speak to other clubs to try to help reach an agreement with Norwich. I have been forced to ask the question: just how much did Norwich want me in the first place? Both myself and my agent understood and accepted what sacrifices I had to make in order for this deal to go through, following our initial meeting with officials from the club..However, it became clear that Norwich were expecting more manoeuvrability from myself and Manchester City than they were prepared to do themselves".

Michael Brown, the 26 year old Sheffield Utd. midfielder, is the subject of talks between the club and Tottenham, with a view to him moving to North London when the transfer window opens in January. Spurs caretaker manager David Pleat said "I can confirm our interest in Michael Brown and I've been speaking with Neil Warnock about him." Pleat is hoping to sign Brown, who helped take United to the semi-finals of the FA Cup and Worthington Cup last season, for about £500,000 as his contract expires next summer.
Stories from BBC Sports site.



Footiemad news item

December 23/03

Pavel Nedved has been named European Footballer of the Year for 2003. The Juventus and Czech Republic midfielder topped the poll from 52 countries, published in France Football, with 190 votes. Thierry Henry finished second and AC Milan's Paolo Maldini third. "I didn't even dream of this," said Nedved. "I am very happy to win such an extraordinary prize. I heard I was part of the nominees, but I didn't really think I was going to win. There are many players who have had great seasons, like Zinedine Zidane, Paolo Maldini and Raul." He added: "For me, Thierry Henry is the best forward in the world now."

Leeds chief executive Trevor Birch will face shareholders at today's AGM with the club nearing its January 19 D-Day to decide its financial future. A package needs to be in place by then to save it from administration. According to Dr. Bill Gerrard, a professor at Leeds University Business School and a shareholder of the club, Allan Leighton is the most likely saviour. The ex-deputy chairman is thought to be putting together a consortium to rescue the Elland Road club, 78 million pounds in debt. "When you look at it logically, and the longer it goes on, there's only one credible solution," said Gerrard, who will be attending the AGM, which started just before Midday. "Caretaker boss Eddie Gray is key to the football future at Leeds United, with chief executive Trevor Birch key to a successful financial future, with the third part of the triumvirate being Leighton."

In yesterday's draw with Manchester City, Leeds central defender Lucas Radebe, who has just returned from an injury that saw him miss most of the season so far, was stretchered off with a snapped hamstring that will sideline him for up to nine weeks.

Chelsea have now had a 10 million bid for Roberto Ayala rejected, but are reported to be going in with a third offer. The Valencia and Argentina defender would be a prime target for Manchester Utd., with Ferdinand suspended, but according to reports, the Blues are now favourites to sign the 30 year old who has played 75 times for Argentina.

Liverpool expect Harry Kewell to return to the line-up for the Boxing Day game with Bolton. The Australian has been out since damaging ligaments in the Carling Cup defeat by the Trotters. This will be a boost for the Anfield side and manager Gerard Houllier, who will be without Michael Owen for the holiday period.

North of the border, Gerry Britton, above, and Derek Whyte have been confirmed as co-managers of Partick Thistle until the end of the season, after originally having the role until January. The Jags are currently 10 points adrift at the bottom of the SPL and a betting man would be looking at Div 1 football at Firhill next season. The club are playing Dundee Utd. tonight at Tannadice.
Stories from BBC Sports site.



Footiemad news item

December 22/03

In the EPL today, Manchester City host Leeds and both teams will be keen to get the points. City are winless in their last eight games in all competitions, while Leeds are going the other way with seven points from their last three games.

Chelsea have lost midfielder Damien Duff for a month with a dislocated shoulder, suffered during the 1-0 win over Fulham on Saturday. The Irishman fell awkwardly under a challenge from Sean Davis in the 22nd minute of the game at Loftus Road.

Fulham striker Louis Saha is apparently keen to move to Manchester Utd. during the open transfer window in January. "I cannot say no - United is my dream and I want to go there," Saha was quoted as saying in The Sun newspaper. "It's now Sir Alex Ferguson who needs a striker," Saha added "In six months the facts of the matter will have changed." Manager Chris Coleman has said that the French forward, who has scored 10 goals so far this campaign, is not for sale at any price. Saha has two years left on his contract after this season.

Arsenal have begun talks with their England central defender Sol Campbell about a three year extension to his current contract, which has two years to run after this season. Manager Arsene Wenger told the London Evening Standard newspaper: "It is true that we are talking to Sol about a new contract. Those talks are at a very early stage but I am optimistic." Wenger added: "He has been a fantastic signing for us and I hope he will stay even longer." Campbell can also expect a pay rise to accompany the new deal. When he joined Arsenal it was claimed Campbell was on close to £100,000 a week, which was a combination of wages of around £70,000 a week and a larger than normal signing-on fee because of the free transfer.

Burnley manager Stan Ternent denied rumours that he had quit following the 5-3 loss to Preston at Deepdale. Amid speculation that he had resigned or been fired, he said: "Under no circumstances will I resign from Burnley Football Club. I have never quit in my life and I won't do now. If they want me to leave, that's a different ball game." The Turf Moor boss was furious after the game in which Burnley came back three times, only to concede two in the final eight minutes.

Trevor Brooking is about to be given a general manager's role as part of his new job, director of football, with the F.A. Chief executive Mark Palios sees the appointment as a vital link between players and management and wants a go-between to help smooth out the kind of problems which blighted the build-up to England's vital Euro 2004 qualifier in Turkey. The threat of a player strike hung over the England camp then and drove a wedge between the players and the FA. Brooking will assume that mantle during international weeks, to listen to player's grievances and to set out guidelines, according to a report in the Telegraph. The ex West Ham and England midfielder has already begun the bridge building process, drawing up a paper with the players to clarify which offences will result in ommission from the England squad.

The draw for the Scottish Cup 3rd round is:-
Dunfermline v Dundee United
Raith Rovers v Kilmarnock
Celtic v Ross County
East Fife v Queen of the South
Hearts v Berwick Rangers
Morton or Vale of Leithen v Partick Thistle
St Johnstone v Motherwell
Stranraer or Hamilton Academical v Cowdenbeath
Clyde v Gretna
Livingston v Montrose or Threave Rovers
Aberdeen v Dundee
Inverness Caledonian Thistle v Brechin City
Ayr United v Falkirk
St Mirren v Airdrie United
Hibernian v Rangers
Arbroath v Alloa or Spartans
Games will be played the weekend of January 10/11.

Scotland goalkeeper Robert Douglas is looking to part company with Celtic. He has only started 10 games this season as manager Martin O'Neill has alternated between the Scot and Magnus Hedman. "We're both international keepers and we both want to play every week," Douglas said. "I just want to be playing first team football. It's as simple as that." The player's agent, Blair Morgan, has alerted teams south of the border and a move to the Premiership is a possibility. "Robert really needs first team football to maintain his position as Scotland's number one," Morgan told BBC Radio Scotland. "Several clubs are sure to be interested in a goalkeeper of Robert's quality although there have been no firm enquiries as yet."
Stories from BBC Sports site.



Footiemad news item

December 21/03

TWO ARTICLES WORTH A READ FROM THE BBC SITE.........................

Ferguson threatens legal fight

Sir Alex Ferguson says Manchester United are prepared to go to court to fight the eight-month ban handed to Rio Ferdinand by the Football Association. But Fifa president Sepp Blatter has warned United they face "unprecedented repercussions" if they do go to court. Ferdinand was punished by the FA on Friday after being found guilty of missing a drugs test in September. "We will need to assess the situation. It may not end with the FA - we may have to go to court," said Ferguson. "He has got a right to go to court to protect his reputation - the club would certainly support him," he added.
Yet Blatter insisted that redress to the civil courts was against Fifa rules. You do not go to court - you present your case to our tribunal in Lausanne and you pay the consequences
Fifa's ultimate sanction, under Article 55 of its statute, would be to expel United from all competitions.
"I hear of a threat to go to the civil courts - even to the European courts - but that is strictly prohibited in our rules," Blatter said. "You do not go to court. You present your case to our tribunal in Lausanne and you pay the consequences. These are the rules of Fifa and they will be adhered to."
Ferguson feels that by dropping Ferdinand from the England squad to face Turkey in October, the FA prevented the defender from receiving a fair trial. "Right from the word go he was bound to get charged because they [the FA] left him out of the English team" Whether he (Ferdinand) ever plays for his country again, or whether he wants to play for them, is another matter That condemned him right away. He has had to carry that burden from that minute when they banned him from playing for England. No matter what people say, it will still be there - that he was refused permission to play for his country because of a drugs situation."
He hinted that Ferdinand could decide to turn his back on playing for England again.
"Whether he ever plays for his country again, or whether he wants to play for them, is another matter," said the United boss.
England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson is confident Ferdinand will continue his England career when his ban is completed. "I am sure in time Rio will play for England again," said Eriksson.
"He is always in my plans and will be when he is allowed to play. I really hope that he will not say that that he would not want to be considered and I am sure he is very proud to play for England. For any player it is the maximum you can do. He is in my plans for the future."


Ferdinand had to pay price
By Phil McNulty
Chief football writer

Rio Ferdinand may feel a fierce eight-month ban is a heavy price to pay for forgetfulness - but the Football Association has backed up strong words with firm actions. The one fact that is beyond dispute in this sprawling and complex case is that Manchester United's England defender failed to take a drugs test on 23 September.
And whatever arguments his club, country or the Professional Footballers' Association may put forward, that makes him guilty of a serious offence. This is why, despite PFA chief executive Gordon Taylor inevitably labelling the penalty as "draconian", Ferdinand can have no complaints. Manchester United are clearly preparing to turn their guns on the FA again as they plan an appeal, but they would be better served questioning the crass stupidity of a £29m player.
This was an open and shut case - and to use the excuse "I forgot" as an explanation does not work in the classroom, let alone the high-pressure world of professional football.
If there is one chink in the FA's armour, it is the eight-month sentence, which seems somewhat random given that predictions of the suspension ranged from three to nine months. Could this be the interfering hand of Fifa president Sepp Blatter at work? Was the FA keen to show this most active of football manipulators the strength of their intent by ensuring Ferdinand did not darken Euro 2004's doorstep? But this is asking questions in the wrong quarter.
Eriksson is unlikely to be happy about Ferdinand's ban The real questions should be asked about how Ferdinand's short-term memory failed him so spectacularly. And how a club like Manchester United, that apparently prides itself on knowing every movement of their players, allowed him to leave the Carrington training headquarters untested.
FA chief executive Mark Palios, for his part, will be satisfied that the strong hand of football's administrators has been applied so firmly to Ferdinand. Whether the view is shared by England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson is another matter as he contemplates a showpiece tournament without a major player. But Palios, despite recent scorn directed at him, got this one spot on. He had to stand firm in the face of the frustration of the country's most powerful club, and under ridiculous pressure from an England squad who wanted to make a martyr out of Ferdinand. If the rule is for all players, in all divisions, in all countries then we'll just have to accept the decision Of course he will face renewed criticism from the usual suspects who threatened strike action when Ferdinand was removed from England's squad to face Turkey, but one simple fact must be remembered. That is, if Ferdinand had followed simple instructions and his club had followed simple guidelines, none of this would have happened.
There is only one guilty party in the whole process, and that is Rio Ferdinand.
He knew the rules. Manchester United knew the rules. They were not adhered to.
Now Ferdinand can reflect on his stupidity and do his time - without complaint.


Once again Alex 'the Manchester motormouth' Ferguson is guilty of thinking he, and by extension, the club are bigger than the game. If Manchester Utd. allow this man's insatiable ego to go unchecked, the financial losses will be severe. If FIFA make good on its threat to impose sanctions on the club, the fallout would be monumental in proportions. This is a public company and the board of directors are answerable to the shareholders. To date, the club have proven themselves to be adept at the business of football and it is incomprehensible to think that this could change to that degree. Ferdinand, already painted by the club as stupid beyond belief, would have torpedoed England's aspirations for Euro 2004, had he been allowed to play. This must be evident to all concerned. In the name of sanity, the player and, more particularly, the club should accept the lenient punishment handed down by the F.A. Ferdinand is guilty of breaking the rules, a fact, and having 'blancmange for brains' is not a mitigating circumstance. Even 'the Cork catastrophe' had the grace to accept a ridiculously lenient punishment for the admitted attempt to maim a fellow professional.



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December 20/03

Needless to say, most of the news today revolves around the Ferdinand affair and the punishment handed down from the F.A. I expressed some views last evening, so will not belabour the point.

It was announced last night by Oldham that Iain Dowie had resigned as manager at the club, to take the vacant post with Crystal Palace, as per the speculation yesterday.. There has been no word yet from Palace and details are not known. The 38 year old spent eight months at Selhurst Park as a player in 1995.

There were two games in Div 3 yesterday. New boys Doncaster moved to the top of the table, at least for a few hours, with a 3-1 win at home to Swansea. In the other game Cambridge took the points at Northampton, winning 2-1..



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December 19/03

In keeping with the season, it should be said that one turkey was considerably underdone.

That Rio Ferdinand should get an eight month ban is ludicrous. That it won't take effect until January 12 only compounds the stupidity. He has been allowed to play since September 23, the date of the scheduled test and can continue to do so another three weeks. He has taken part in Premiership and Champions League matches, the outcome of which could affect the entire season in both competitions. This is, in effect, half the season. When the ban finally kicks in, he will only miss the final four months of this season, after which, from a club point of view , there is a three month break. He will then miss the opening month of next season, making the actual playing time he misses a mere five months. Considering he should have been given a two year ban, I call that extremely lenient.. Granted, he will not be available for selection for Euro 2004, but anything could happen if he were playing, such as an injury, to make that a possibility anyway. If he were that keen to represent his country, he should have been thinking on September 23. Dick Pound of the World Anti Doping Agency warns that, on appeal, his punishment could be increased. Tom Fordyce, on the BBC site, makes the very valid point that the club were delinquent in not ensuring that he was available for the test. Nicky Butt had a similar appointment, which he kept. During the hearing, apparently, much was made of Ferdinand's forgetfulness by people connected with Manchester Utd. (for forgetful, read thick as two short planks). Surely, knowing the seriousness of the need to be tested and the fact that they regard him as brain dead, someone should have had him on a short leash to ensure he attended. I wonder how Sepp Blatter will receive the news. Whether he is arrogant, an idiot, or a combination of the two, he should be thanking the powers that be for an early Xmas present, the sixteen missing months of the ban. The 50,000 pound fine he received is a drop in the ocean. The F.A. have come out of this looking a little Casper Milquetoastish.



December 19/03

Ferdinand gets eight month ban. He can appeal.


The CIS Cup quarter final at Easter Road last night produced something of an upset. Runaway SPL leaders Celtic were deservedly beaten 2-1 by Hibs, who now look forward to a meeting with Rangers in the semi final. Celtic took the lead in the 56th minute with a Varga header. Hibs struck back in the 64th minute, Grant Brebner converting a spot kick, to set the stage for Kevin Thomson to hit the winner from 20 yards with eight minutes left. It was Celtic's first domestic loss of the season.

Still in Scotland, St. Mirren have confirmed Gus MacPherson as player-manager after John Coughlin stepped down last month. MacPherson has been in temporary charge at Love Street since then and has now been given an 18 month contract.

The Ferdinand nonsense resumes today, with a seemingly endless stream of people set to testify. It's all B.S. - he missed the test - end of story. Total arrogance or complete stupidity do not constitute a defence.

Leicester defender Ben Thatcher has been charged with violent conduct by the F.A. after clashing with Freddie Ljunberg during the 1-1 draw with Arsenal on December 6. If found guilty he could serve a three game ban. Foxes manager Micky Adams faces improper conduct and 'using insulting words to a match official' charges following his outburst at referee Mike Riley during the Leicester loss to Birmingham last Saturday and could face a touchline ban. Both would have 14 days to respond in the event of a guilty verdict.

Sir Jack Hayward, seen above with manager Dave Jones after clinching promotion to the Premiership last season, has retired as chairman and director of Wolves and is replaced by his son Rick. The change was announced after a buyer for the Molineux club failed to materialise. Hayward revealed in September that he would be prepared to sell the club for nothing. "No-one made a serious bid so my father felt it best to step down and allow me to search for individual investors." Rick Hayward said. The 80-year-old has spent more than £60m since taking control and has promised more funds will be available in the January transfer window.

West Brom have completed the move to get Wigan striker Geoff Horsfield for one million pounds.The 30 year old, who spent three months with the Lancashire club, has signed a two and a half year deal at the Hawthorns. He will be in the Baggies' squad for the trip to Coventry on Saturday.

Oldham boss Iain Dowie is expected to be announced as manager of Crystal Palace today. He has been a success at Boundary Road during a very difficult period for the club and while working with extremely limited resources. Kit Symons has been running the team at Selhurst Park, in a caretaker capacity, since Steve Kember was fired on November 3.

Ex Bradford boss Nicky Law and Southend have held conversations regarding the vacant managerial post at Roots Hall. The Shrimpers, currently 22nd in Div 3, have been without a manager since Steve Wignall was fired in November. Law has been unemployed since his dismissal at Bradford earlier this month. "If and when the time is right I'm sure the board will come out and say who their man is going to be," Law said. "It wouldn't be right for me to comment on any conversations which have gone on between a football club and myself.". He then went on to outline a resume that would seem to be suited to the job at hand in Essex..
Stories from BBC Sports site.



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December 18/03

In last night's Carling Cup quarter final matches, Aston Villa beat Chelsea 2-1 on a late goal from Gavin McCann. Juan Pablo Angel had opened the scoring in the 16th minute for the Midlands side, with Joe Cole getting the Blues even in the 69th minute. In the other game, Middlesborough equalized through Michael Ricketts four minutes from the end of regulation time. Darren Anderton had given Spurs a dream start, scoring after 63 seconds. It was still even following the extra 30 minutes and Boro won the penalty shoot out 5-4 to advance. In the semi finals Arsenal play Middlesborough and Bolton take on Aston Villa. The first leg's are to be played the week of January 19 with the return the following week.

In the F.A. Cup 2nd round replay between Sheffield Wednesday and Scunthorpe there was no score AET. Scunthorpe won 3-1 on penalty kicks to advance to Round Three and a trip to Barnsley.

The Rio Ferdinand fiasco moves to the hearing stage today, commencing at 11.00 GMT at the Reebok Stadium in Bolton. The hearing can continue as late on Thursday and Friday as the commission deems necessary. There will be no shortage, apparently, of witnesses putting in their two cents worth. After the verdict, Ferdinand has 14 days to appeal any punishment. The commission's decision will obviously not please everyone, however, anything less than the maximum would be considered lenient from this viewpoint. One interested party will be FIFA head honcho Sepp Blatter, who has been fairly vocal since the defender's indiscretion was made public.

Scotland U-20 defeated Portugal U-20 2-1 in a friendly in Alcochete, near Lisbon, yesterday. The home side took the lead early in the second half through Luis Alfonso. Scotland fought back, hitting the woodwork three times before St. Mirren midfielder Simon Lappin, left above, equalized 12 minutes from time. Celtic's Bryan Prunty, right above, got the winner in the final minute.

Manchester Utd. have signed Lee Martin, a 16 year old midfielder, from Wimbledon for 200,000 pounds. The deal could rise to a million, depending on the youngster's progress at Old Trafford. United are also said to be close to signing 18 year old Chinese striker Dong Fangzhou. Reports suggest they will pay his club, Dalian Shide, up to 3.5 million and Dalian general manager Lin Lepeng said the deal should be completed this week. The move would certainly not harm United's image and marketability in Asia, where the Premiership is extremely popular. The English club would also send two or three coaches to work with Dalian's development squad.

Southampton are also in the far eastern market, hoping to sign 25 year old Chinese international Yang Pu from Beijing Hyundai and the player is keen on the move, according to the Chinese press. "It's true that the English Premier club Southampton is intent on signing me, but so far there is no deal on a transfer or loan," Yang said "I am not getting younger and it might be the last chance for me to play abroad,"

Division 2 leaders QPR are in a bit of a cash crisis and desperately need an investor, or they will be forced to sell players, an option they would like to avoid. The West London club look to be a really good bet for promotion and are drawing well, over 15,000 on Saturday to see them beat Hartlepool 4-1, but are struggling to find a major investor. Manager Ian Holloway has added his voice in a plea to keep the promotion dream on track. "The money just isn't there," he said. "If anyone's out there, come and join us and what we're doing here. You don't have to buy the place, just come on board."

Rotherham chairman Ken Booth has announced he will step aside, however, director Chris Dobbs insists the club are in no rush to find a buyer. He said: "Something like this will take some time. We don't expect it to happen overnight - or even in weeks. The chairman will stay and back the club as it's not as if it is a rescue bid or anything like that.".
Stories from BBC Sports site.



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December 17/03

In yesterday's Carling Cup games, Arsenal beat West Brom 2-0 at the Hawthorns with a goal in each half, while at the Reebok, Bolton got a late goal to beat Southampton 1-0 AET, Henrik Pedersen, above, scoring with five minutes to go. As an aside, Bolton manager Sam Allardyce is outraged that skipper Jay-Jay Okocha will miss the semi final while on international duty. (I think calling the Carling Cup semi final one of the most crucial games in club history may be stretching a point a little, and I do realize there would financial benefit accruing from a trip to Millenium Stadium. Only a couple of days ago the club were happy to have the Nigerian over the Xmas and New Year peroid, with his call-up delayed until January 9). In tonight's games Aston Villa host Chelsea and Tottenham are at home to Middlesborough.

In F.A. Cup 2nd round replays last night, Barnsley beat Bristol City 2-1, Mansfield got by Wycombe 3-2 and Macclesfield overcame Cambridge 4-2 on penalties, the game finishing in a 2-2 draw..Today Sheffield Wednesday take on Scunthorpe.

The Premier League and BSkyB TV have reached a compromise deal with the European Commission on the broadcast package it had negotiated. This will allow up to eight Premiership games to be aired live by someone other than BSkyB. It had been claimed by the commission that the league had given the broadcaster a monopoly, because of its size and the centralized bidding process. BSkyB has not commented on whether it will seek to change the financial element of the package, which commences next season, due to the lack of exclusivity.

With their bid for Thierry Henry falling on barren ground, Chelsea have hinted they may pay 60 million pounds to get Manchester Utd. striker Ruud van Nistelrooy to move to Stamford Bridge. The Blues acting chief executive Paul Smith indicated his interest yesterday, although he also said that a central defender and a midfielder were his priorities during the January transfer window. "We're looking to strengthen as Frank Lampard and Claude Makelele are looking a bit tired," he said. "If Emmanuel Petit and Juan Sebastian Veron were fit there wouldn't be a problem. We need to know when they'll be fit. We also like [defender] Roberto Ayala and had a look at him but unfortunately he's cup-tied after playing in the UEFA Cup. We want players who are available for our Champions League campaign. If Van Nistelrooy was priced at £60m and we considered it a good investment, then we would probably pay that. We do care about the money and it's a misconception that we don't. There's not a finite budget but we want to get good value. Roman is a businessman and is determined not to get ripped off. We won't pay the tourist price." Although the Dutchman would not be eligible for Europe this season, the likes of Hasselbaink, Gudjohnsson and even Crespo must be feeling warm all over.

Fulham will be going home to Craven Cottage next season, after two years of ground sharing with QPR at Loftus Road. The club has been granted permission to upgrade the ground, at a cost of 5.4 million pounds, bringing the capacity up to 22,000. The work, which involves bolting seats on to the terraces and the installation of new floodlights, is expected to be completed by July, 2004. The club's longer term future is uncertain, as chairman Mohamed Al Fayed is still planning to move the club to a brand new stadium in West London if a suitable site can be found.

Spurs midfielder Rohan Ricketts has agreed to a one year extension of his current contract. The 21 year old, who joined the club in July 2002, is now committed to Tottenham until 2007. In another move announced yesterday by the North London club, Charlton's Paul Konchesky has had his loan spell extended by a further month. The 22 year old defender has made clear he would like to seal a permanent deal at White Hart Lane.

Jermaine Pennant, on loan to Leeds from Arsenal, has seen that deal extended by another month. The 20 year old has impressed at Elland Road and is enjoying regular first team outings. Although he played in the league fixture last month, he will not be allowed to play in the 3rd round F.A. Cup match between the two clubs on January 4.

The injury to Newcastle defender Jonathan Woodgate is not as bad as was first thought and he could be back in action early in the New Year. It was initially feared he could miss as long as two months.

Norwich City have joined the race to sign Darren Huckerby from Manchester City. Yesterday West Brom had a bid, believed to be 750,000 pounds, accepted by City, which the Canaries have now matched. The 27 year old striker has just completed a three month loan spell at Carrow Road and had earlier indicated that he would be happy to join the East Anglia club and that his family really liked the area. This would probably make Norwich favourites for his signature.

A new proposal for a British Cup has been put forward by the Football League and has been welcomed by its counterpart in Scotland. It would involve a game between the winners of the League Cup either side of the border, with the winners getting 450,000 and the losers 300,000 pounds. Although, at this time, it is purely an idea which will need approval from the clubs in both leagues, it would be possible to stage an inaugural match as early as this season, with Hampden Park seen, at least by the Scottish League, as a prospective venue. There would likely be considerable fan interest in such a fixture.
Stories from BBC Sports site.



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December 16/03

In the F.A. Cup 2nd round replay last night, Conference side Accrington Stanley beat Div 2 Bournemouth 5-3 on penalty kicks after a scoreless 120 minutes. They will now host Colchester in the next round. Replays tonight have Barnsley v Bristol City, Cambridge v Macclesfield and Mansfield v Wycombe.

Carling Cup quarter final action begins tonight with Bolton taking on Southampton and West Brom up against Arsenal. The other two games will be played tomorrow.

Newcastle central defender Jonathan Woodgate could be out for up to two months after suffering a torn hamstring in the game with Spurs on Saturday. He has only recently returned to the side after recovering from a hernia operation which sidelined him for a couple of months. Woodgate, who cost 8 million pounds when he moved from Leeds, has started eight of Newcastle's 24 games so far this season, due to injury.

Fulham striker Louis Saha, whose 10 goals this season have been an integral part of the Cottagers' success, is said to be the main target of Manchester Utd. in next months transfer window. The Old Trafford club is reported to be set to offer 7.0 million for the 25 year old, who insists he wants to stay in S.W.6, where he has helped the club to fourth place in the Premiership as of now. Manager Chris Coleman said last month, he was not for sale at any price and that he wanted to sign Saha to a new deal, however, the Fenchman said he had heard nothing of a new contract. Alex Ferguson, meanwhile, is said to be confident he can thrash out a deal.

Professor John McKenzie will step down as chairman of Leeds and is likely to lead a takeover bid for the club. He will not stand for re-election to the board of Leeds United plc, it was confirmed in a statement to the Stock Exchange McKenzie is understood to be involved with a Chinese consortium trying to buy the Elland Road club and wants to ensure that there is no conflict of interest. The general meeting is to be held on December 23rd.

Zinedine Zidane, right, won the World Footballer of the Year honours yesterday, finishing ahead of Thierry Henry, left, and Ronaldo, you've guessed it- middle. On further speculation on a move to Spain, the Gunners striker said that it would be a dream to play with the two Real Madrid stars, but it would only happen if they joined Arsenal.

Geoff Horsfield, who moved from Birmingham to Wigan three months ago, looks to be on his way back to the Midlands where he still lives. The thirty year old striker is the subject of a bid by WBA, which Wigan has accepted. Paul Jewell, manager of the Lancashire side, was reluctant to let Horsfield, who has seven goals in 16 league games, go, but agreed after talking to the player. Jewell will be looking for a replacement, with Manchester City's Darren Huckerby near the top of his list. No sooner had this been written than it was announced that City have accepted an undisclosed bid from West Brom for Huckerby. (The Baggies are trying to ensure promotion by not letting any of the other teams have a striker). The 27 year old, who has just completed a loan deal at Norwich, has yet to agree terms.

According to the Daily Mirror, Liverpool boss Gerard Houllier is now among the favourites to get a pink slip after it was announced that striker Michael Owen had suffered a recurrence of his thigh injury and could be lost to the Anfield club until the New Year.
Stories from BBC Sports site.

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December 15/03


In the EPL yesterday Arsenal beat Blackburn 1-0, at Highbury, on an 11th minute Dennis Bergkamp goal, to regain first place. Aston Villa, after early domination and a two goal lead, held on to defeat Wolves 3-2. Juan Pablo Angel netted a brace for the winners, who climbed out of the bottom three. At Elland Road, Leeds got a late winner from a Dominic Matteo header, just moments after Louis Saha's second goal of the game had levelled the score for the London side. Leeds have now picked up seven points from their last three games.

In Scotland, defending champions Rangers went down 2-0 to Dunfermline at East End Park. The Pars got an early goal from Stevie Crawford and an own goal from Paolo Vanoli five minutes from time for their first league win over the Ibrox side for 31 years.


Liverpool may make a move for Nottingham Forest defender Michael Dawson during the open transfer window in January. Gerard Houllier had earlier hinted he would not be making any major signings, but could change his mind and try to land the 20 year old. Forest would have to listen very carefully to any offer in the five million pound range, to ease their cash problems, particularly as they are not challenging for promotion at this time, the new campaign having started in disappointing fashion.


Still at Anfield, Liverpool captain Steve Gerrard has said that he may leave the club, despite having just signed a new long term contract, if the Merseysiders don't make the Champions League within two years. Gerrard told the Sunday Mirror newspaper: "I have just signed a long-term contract and I signed it because I believe Liverpool will be back in the Champions League and challenging for the title. But I also know that things in football don't always go the way you think they will. If we don't qualify for the Champions League over the next couple of seasons then I would have to think very seriously about things. I would owe it to myself to take another look at my future."


England's 1966 World Cup winners have been named the Golden Team at the BBC Sports Personality awards. Many of the players on the field that day at Wembley were on hand to receive the award. Manager Sir Alf Ramsey died in 1999 and captain Bobby Moore, who undoubtedly would have received a knighthood along with Bobby Charlton and Geoff Hurst, lost his battle with cancer in 1993. The team has been compared to this year's World Champion rugby side in the way the win was achieved. From a monetary reward standpoint, there is no comparison. While each member of Clive Woodward's 2003 World Cup winners will receive a win bonus of £71,000, many of the 1966 team were forced to auction memorabilia. Moore's shirt went for £44,000, Hurst's raised £80,000, while Banks sold his World Cup winners medal for £124,750. But their victory, from a bygone sporting era, will rightly remain the benchmark for all English national teams, and is worth its weight in gold.


Legendary German midfielder Lothar Matthaeus, twice World Player of the Year, has been appointed coach of the Hungarian national side. He played a record 150 times for his country and led them to the 1990 World Cup. The appointment is effective January 1, 2004.

Accrington Stanley host Bournemouth today in an F.A. Cup 2nd round replay at the Interlink Express Stadium.

The 2003 World Player of the Year will be announced today in Basle, Switzerland. The three players in contention are Ronaldo, three time wnner, Zinedine Zidane, a winner twice and Thierry Henry.


Birmingham are considering making a move to sign Celtic strikers Henrik Larsson and John Hartson. Larsson has said this season will be his last at Parkhead and his agent indicated the Swede could make the switch to the EPL. The Welsh international still has 18 months to run on his contract. St. Andrews' boss Steve Bruce is keen for the pair to link up in the Midlands.


Bolton got a boost when it was announced that Jay-Jay Okocha can remain with the club over the Xmas and New Year period. The Nigerian international was thought to be joining his country's African Nations Cup squad for pre-tournament training at the weekend, but the Nigerian F.A. will allow English based players to join the rest of the team on January 9/04. The tournament runs from January 24 to February 14/04. Everton will also be happy as they were resigned to losing central defender Joseph Yobo for the same competition.
Stories from BBC Sports site.



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December 14/03


Arsenal have turned down a formal bid for Thierry Henry, reported to be between 40 and 50 million pounds. Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich made the offer in person on Wednesday night at Highbury, according to Gunners' vice chairman David Dein. "Henry is not for sale at any price - not to Real Madrid, not to Chelsea, not to any club," Dein told the Spanish sports newspaper As. "Money is only good if you can buy another player as good as Thierry, but there is no-one in the world like him." Dein added: "We know that Real Madrid are interested in our player and we know that Chelsea also want him because last week Roman Abramovich himself came to Highbury to present a formal offer for him. But we said the same thing we will say to Real Madrid if they present an offer, or to any other club for that matter, and that is that Henry is not for sale."


Further good news for the Highbury faithful came from Arsene Wenger during an interview with BBC Radio Five Live. The Gunners' boss has been linked with the likes of Real Madrid and Barcelona, but he said he may never leave Arsenal.."As long as you feel you can push the club higher you want to be part of it," he said. "As a manager it could be my last job - I don't think I have to move at some stage at any cost. But as well I must accept the short term, every week or sometimes three days you have an exam and you have to be successful and pass that exam."

In the EPL today three games are scheduled. Aston Villa host Wolves, Arsenal play Blackburn and Fulham travel to Leeds. An Arsenal win will see them back on top as a result of yesterday's games.

In Div 1, West Brom remain top despite only getting a 2-2 draw with Crewe at the Hawthorns. Norwich, 4-1 winners over Cardiff yesterday, stay second, however, there was also disappointment.

Striker Darren Huckerby, above who turned in a great performance in the game, has ended a three month loan spell at Carrow Road and will return to Manchester City. The Canaries would haved liked to buy him outright, but were conscious of financial restraints. Sheffield Utd. and Ipswich both drew, the Blades 2-2 at home to Watford and the Suffolk side 0-0 at Millwall. Wigan beat Bradford 1-0 and West Ham came from two goals down to beat Sunderland 3-2

QPR and Plymouth kept up the pace in Div 2. Rangers hammered Hartlepool 4-1 at Loftus Road to stay top, but Plymouth won in a more dramatic fashion. Argyle were two down at Swindon, but came back to win the points with a Marino Keith strike in injury time. Brighton and Barnsley both drew home games 1-1, the Seasiders with Port Vale and the Tykes with Sheffield Wednesday. Colchester and Luton, both winners yesterday, round out the top six.

In Div 3 action, Oxford beat bottom of the table Carlisle 2-1 to remain on top. Doncaster moved back into second place with a 3-1 win at Cheltenham. Hull dropped to third after a 1-1 draw at Scunthorpe and Yeovil, 1-0 winners at Bristol Rovers, leap frogged Mansfield, who were beaten 2-1 at home by Lincoln.


In the SPL Celtic just keep rolling along. The leaders made it 15 wins in a row with a 3-2 victory over Dundee at Parkhead. The consecutive string is a new record in Scotland's top flight. Rangers need a win today at Dunfermline to keep in touch with their city rivals. Hearts, third in the table, ended a four game losing skid with a 2-1 win over Kilmarnock at Tynecastle. The win came with a cost, as Jambos' skipper Steve Pressley limped off after 20 minutes of his first game back, following a spell out with an injury. In other games, Dundee Utd. beat Livingston 2-0 at Tannadice, Motherwell went down 1-0 at home to Hibs and in the bottom of the table encounter at Firhill Park, Aberdeen widened the gap between themselves and cellar dwellers Partick with a 3-0 win

There was no change at the top of any of the other divisions as Inverness Caley, Morton and Stirling Albion were all winners. The second place clubs in all three divisions also picked up three points, Clyde, Hamilton and Stranraer, respectively.
Stories from BBC Sports site.



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December 13/03


Bolton stunned Chelsea with a 90th minute winner, John Terry deflecting a Henrik Pederson cross into his own net. It was the Blues first home defeat of the season and Bolton's first win at the Bridge since December 1975. Hernan Crespo opened the scoring in the 22nd minute as the home side completely dominated the play. They came close on a few occasions before Bruno N'Gotty headed the Trotters back on level terms, from a Youri Djorkaeff free kick in the 39th minute. Both sides had a goal disallowed, Crespo for handball as he gained control and Ivan Campo, after Per Frandsen had fouled Carlo Cudicini in the Chelsea goal. Bolton had defended resolutely for most of the game and the Londoners failed to turn possession into goals. The win moves Bolton up to 10th place while Chelsea drop to second.


Paul Scholes headed a pair of goals and Ruud van Nistelrooy one as United beat City 3-1 in the Manchester derby at Old Trafford. The home side were far and away the better team in the first half and City's only real chance came from a deflected Robbie Fowler shot which Tim Howard managed to tip over the bar. The visitors, who had been pretty lethargic in the opening half, came into the game more after Shaun Wright-Phillips' great individual effort in the 52nd minute beat Howard, and it became more lively as a contest. Fowler narrowly missed evening the score at 2-2 when his header from a botched Howard clearance went just wide of the empty net. Scholes insurance goal came after David Seaman had made a great save, pushing a van Nistelrooy shot against a post, with Richard Dunne scrambling it away for a throw in. The win moves United, at least temporarily, into top spot.

In other games, Southampton beat Liverpool 2-1 at Anfield and moved into sixth place. Birmingham beat Leicester 2-0 at Walker's Stadium, where the home side were reduced to nine men, Matt Elliott and goalkeeper Ian Walker both being sent off. To add to their woes, manager Micky Adams was banished from the dug-out by referee Mike Riley. Newcastle trounced Spurs 4-0 on a pair of goals each by Laurent Robert, who left his sickbed to play, and Alan Shearer. Middlesborough and Charlton played to a 0-0 draw at the Riverside, where Danny Mills may be in a little trouble after an incident with Paolo di Canio. Everton came from behind to beat Portsmouth 2-1 at Fratton Park.

F.A. chief executive Mark Palios believes Sven-Goran Eriksson is the man to lead England to glory and he feels the same way about the Swede signing the contract extension. He spoke in a very positive way about England potential coming to fruition in 2004 and 2006, of Eriksson's part in this and of job security. "If you want your coach to stay to deal with the 2006 competition (the World Cup) you've got to give him some job security and 2008 was a natural extension." Then comes the BS. Referring to the pre Turkey and pre Denmark debacles, when the manager seemed a little unsettled by the nonsense, Palios insisted all was fine in the England camp. I respect Sven's position and he respects my position. We get on fine," Palios said "The players respect my position and I'm grateful to them for that and I was respectful of the way they conducted themselves," he added. (The last part was a tough swallow).



Footiemad news item

December 12/03

The draw for the next round of the Champions League takes place at 11.00 GMT today. The first leg will be played on February 24/25 with the second leg on March 9/10. It is as follows:-
VfB Stuttgart v CHELSEA
Porto v MANCHESTER UNITED
Real Sociedad v Lyon
Celta Vigo v ARSENAL
Bayern Munich v Real Madrid
Sparta Prague v AC Milan
Deportivo La Coruna v Juventus
Lokomotiv Moscow v Monaco

The draw for the UEFA Cup is as follows:-
Brondy v Barcelona
Parma v Gençlerbirligi
Benfica v Rosenberg
Marseilles v Dnipro
Celtic v FK Teplice
Perugia v PSV Eindhoven
Groclin v Girondins Bordeaux
Valencia v Besiktas
Glatasaray v Vilareal
Brugges v Debreceni
FC Sochaux v Inter Milan
Liverpool v Levski Sofia
Spartak Moscow v Mallorca
Gaziantepspor v AS Roma
Auxerre v Panathinaikos
Valerenga v Newcastle United


West Ham striker Jermain Defoe has hinted strongly that he will join a Premiership club in January. The 21 year old has been linked with several top-flight sides, including Manchester Utd. and Arsenal. He cites his ambition to play for England as a huge motivation, believing that he will have many more chances to impress Sven-Goran Eriksson if he can showcase his talent in the nation's highest league. Defoe has been a regular with the U-21's, but wants to make the move up to the senior side.


Tottenham have announced that caretaker-manager David Pleat and assistant Chris Hughton will retain their roles for the balance of the season. Chairman Daniel Levy has a candidate in mind for the post, but has to wait until the end of the current campaign before he can make a move. He said there had been around 30 applications for the position, but the club had approached no-one. Levy indicated that, while there are no guarantees, he is confident that he will get his man when commitments have been fulfilled.


Gary McAllister has stepped down as manager of Coventry, in order to spend time with his family, while his wife undergoes treatment for an unspecified illness. The club have supported the decision and have named his assistant Eric Black to run the team for the foreseeable future. McAllister hopes to return to the club down the road.


West Ham defender Rufus Brevett will be out for the rest of the season. He fractured a bone in his foot in August and seemed to be close to a return, but had to undergo surgery this week when a scan showed some possibly serious scar tissue damage.

Wycombe boss Tony Adams has signed 17 year old Aston Villa striker Luke Moore on a one month loan deal. The former England youth international has not made an appearance in the Villa first team, but has been scoring regularly for the reserves. Adams is still looking for his first league win as manager and is trying to lift the club from the foot of the Div 2 table.


German Women's World Cup winner Birgit Prinz is mulling over an offer from Perugia in Italy's Serie A to become the first female player in the league. (What is it coming to? This is nothing more than circus)
Stories from BBC Sports site.



Footiemad news item

December 11/03

In the Champions League last night Arsenal won their game and group, while Celtic, unfortunately, lost on a late penalty.


Arsenal beat Lokomotiv Moscow 2-0, on goals by Robert Pires and Freddie Ljunberg, to complete a great comeback and win Group B. Thierry Henry had a hand in both goals and the Gunners should have found the net more often. The Russian side still finished as runners-up and qualified for the knock-out stage after a 1-1 stalemate in Kiev between Dynamo and Inter Milan, a game which had been scrappy for the first hour or so, but came to life after Inter scored. Dynamo tied it up with five minutes left, providing a frantic end to end finish.


In Group A, Celtic, after twice coming from behind, were beaten by a controversial penalty five minutes from time. John Hartson and Chris Sutton scored for the Glasgow side, who only needed a draw to advance. The penalty was given when the ball brushed the underside of Bobo Balde's arm, above. with even the Lyon players turning for a goal kick. In the other game, Bayern Munich beat Anderlecht 1-0 on a Roy Makaay penalty, to finish second in the group.

Group C winners Monaco drew with AEK Athens 0-0 in Greece. Second place Deportivo la Coruna lost 3-2 at PSV Eindhoven, but qualified because the Dutch side needed to win by three goals. Juventus set a new Champions League record for the biggest win, trouncing Olympiakos 7-0, to top Group D. Real Sociedad got the much needed point, coming from behind to draw 1-1 at home with Galatasaray.

Teams advancing to the knock-out stage after Wednesday's games:- Lyon, Bayern Munich, Arsenal, Lokomotiv Moscow, Monaco, Deportivo la Coruna, Juventus and Real Sociedad. The draw for the next round takes place on Friday. Qualifying for the UEFA Cup 3rd round were:- Celtic, Inter Milan, PSV Eindhoven and Galatasaray.


Manchester Utd. are planning to offer Ruud van Nistelrooy a new five year deal worth about 80,000 pounds a week, double what he reportedly makes now, in an effort to thwart any interest from Real Madrid. The Dutch striker is currently halfway through his contract at Old Trafford. The 27 year old has scored an amazing 95 goals in 123 games for the club. Ex team mate David Beckham has said he would like to play alongside van Nistelrooy again. The proposed new deal would put him in line with Roy Keane and Rio Ferdinand at the pay window. (Elevated company, indeed).


Reading striker Shaun Goater has been awarded an MBE at Buckingham Palace. The Bermudan was given the award for his services to children and sport on his native island, where he returns every summer to conduct soccer schools. The former Manchester City cult favourite has become a national hero in Bermuda where January 21 has been designated 'Shaun Goater Day'.


Fulham's Luis Boa Morte, who has just finished a three game suspension for his red card against Liverpool, has been hit with a one game ban and a 4,000 pound fine after being found guilty of improper conduct, stamping on Leicester defender Frank Sinclair. Boa Morte was sent off against Liverpool last month for what his own manager Chris Coleman called an "horrific challenge" on Florent Sinama-Pongolle. "He's a lovely lad but gets frustrated and lacks discipline at times," Coleman said at the time. (An invitation to the vicarage tea party is not in the mail).

Derby County have completed the signing of Spanish striker Manuel Martinez Fernandez on a free transfer, although the registration will have to wait until January 1, when the transfer window opens. The 30 year old had his contract terminated by Espanyol. Fernandez impressed Rams' boss George Burley during a trial period with the club. The 6ft 3inch forward has scored 98 times in 226 appearances in the Spanish first and second divisions.


Aston Villa manager David O'Leary will delay payments of the two million pounds severance he is owed by former club Leeds, in a bid to help them through the current financial crisis. He receives a monthly payment from the Elland Road outfit, but after getting 500,000 pounds next month will defer the balance to payments every six months.

The one billion pound deal between the Premier League and BSkyB, commencing at the start of the 2004/05 season, is in jeopardy. Negotiations have been ongoing for nine months and the European Commission is set to rule on it within 10 days. Competitions Commissioner Mario Monti objected to the deal, claiming it was structured in such a way that only BSkyB could afford to bid. If the deal is scrapped, clubs would have to make their own TV deals, which could possibly lead to their demise."This would effectively break up the Premier League," said Charlton chief executive Peter Varney. Varney, speaking to BBC Radio Five Live, added: "The outcome for the Premier League clubs would be catastrophic. Some in particular are carrying heavy levels of debt. We've estimated you would be looking at something like a £400m reduction in the revenues which we've currently attracted in an open and competitive process. So if that were to be reversed in any way I think it's fair to say a number of Premiership clubs would be facing administration."
Bill Sinrich, president of one of the world's biggest sports rights holding companies, TWI International, said the effects of scrapping the deal will have even wider implications. "The difficulty is they are applying certain logic and standards that may be more appropriate in other industries than in the sport industry which has some very unique circumstances that cannot be ignored," he said. "If the top is jeopardised, the middle and the bottom, which is the Football League, absolutely will suffer far more serious consequences. The end result is it will be bad for the game and ultimately it will be bad for the viewer and the fan experience."
Stories from BBC Sports site.



Footiemad news item

December 10/03

Last night's Champions League play saw both Manchester Utd. and Chelsea finish top of their group.

United beat VFB Stuttgart 2-0 at Old Trafford, with Ruud van Nistelrooy, above, heading the first just before half time. Ryan Giggs scored in the second half. The Dutchman's strike was his 28th in European competition, tying him with Denis Law's club record.


Chelsea's performance drew praise from manager Claudio Ranieri. In a very hostile atmosphere in front of over 50,000 Turkish fans, many of whom were throwing toilet tissue an other missiles, (Carlo Cudicini is shown removing a smoke bomb from the pitch), the Blues got late goals from Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink and Wayne Bridge to win 2-0. Umbrellas were part of the dug-out equipment for the Chelsea bench as protection against objects being thrown from the crowd. The start of the second half was delayed by eight minutes while stewards cleared the pitch of debris.

Rangers, needing a draw to qualify for the UEFA Cup 3rd round draw, went ahead on a Michael Mols goal after 28 minutes at Ibrox, only to concede three to Panathinaikos and suffer a rare home defeat in European competition.

Teams advancing to the knock-out stage after Tuesday's games:- Manchester Utd., VFB Stuttgart, Real Madrid, FC Porto, Chelsea, Sparta Prague, AC Milan and Celta Vigo. Qualifying for the UEFA Cup 3rd round were:- Panathinaikos, Marseille, Besiktas and Club Brugge.

Today's games wrap up group stage play. Arsenal are at home to Lokomotiv Moscow and a win would see them top Group B. A draw would leave them reliant on the result of the other match between Dynamo Kiev and Inter Milan. In Group A, Celtic travel to Lyon, where a draw would see them through to the next stage. The French side must win to make the last 16. In the other game in this group, Bayern Munich against Anderlecht, a win by either side would see them advance. In Group C, Monaco and Deportivo la Coruna only need a point from their visits to AEK Athens and PSV Eindhoven respectively. Juventus have already qualified in Group D and host Olympiakos, while Real Sociedad entertain Galatasaray and need to avoid a home defeat to advance.


Manchester Utd. midfielder Nicky Butt admits he would consider a move from Old Trafford to get regular first team football. The England stalwart, one of the stars of the 2002 World Cup, has been restricted to only nine starts for the club this season and did not even make the bench for Saturday's game with Aston Villa. The 28 year old, who has made over 350 appearances for United, knows he has to be playing regularly or his place in Euro 2004 would be in jeopardy.

An item designed to make footiemadandy's day has Gerard Houllier, the under-pressure Anfield manager, saying he is confident of leading Liverpool into next year's Champions League and does not rule out a top three finish for the club. In reference to David Moores' remarks in the annual report, Houllier said "I laughed when I read the context of what had been said. It was taken out of context. The chairman was simply saying what I have said all along. We set our target to get into the Champions League and we want to win every competition we enter. We have to have a winning culture at Liverpool and we have won trophies here, although it is obvious we wanted to be in the Champions League this season."

An angry Alan Pardew ripped into his players after the 1-0 home loss to Stoke last night. The West Ham boss was upset that his side had wasted a chance to get up with the leaders, against the Midlands team, who had lost eight consecutive away games. "This team are on a bit of a knife edge at the moment because I need to get this club up and the players have to show me that they want to stay and play for this club" he said, "If the players don't look right over the next two or three games I am going to have to make changes. I am fed up with talking now I want to see some action.".

The semi final match in the Scottish CIS Insurance Cup between Dundee and Livingston has been moved from Hampden Park to Easter Road, to make travel more convenient for fans of both clubs. The smaller ground should also make for a better atmosphere in which to play the game, as in the past, the number of empty seats in the National Stadium for this event has been a detraction. The game is scheduled for February 3/04. The other semi final will certainly be played at Hampden, where Rangers will meet the winners of the delayed quarter final between Hibs and Celtic.
Stories from BBC Sports site.



Footiemad news item

December 9/03

Champions League group stage action concludes this week. Games today feature Chelsea playing away to Besiktas in Gelsenkirchen, due to the recent bombings in Istanbul, and needing a point to ensure finishing top in Group G. The Turkish side, currently second, also need points to prevent either Sparta Prague or Lazio, who meet today in the Czech capital, overtaking them.
In Group E Manchester Utd. face Stuttgart at Old Trafford, needing a win to finish top of that group. Both sides have qualified for the next phase, but VFB lead as a result of their earlier 2-1 win over the Red Devils in Germany. Also in this group, Rangers must avoid defeat against Panathinaikos at Ibrox to qualify for the UEFA Cup 3rd round.
AC Milan has already reached the knockout stage in Group H and host Celta Vigo at the San Siro, while Ajax travel to Belgium to meet Club Brugge. Ajax have to win to be sure of getting through, as anything less , coupled with the Spanish side winning in Milan, would see the Dutch eliminated.
Real Madrid and FC Porto go at it at the Bernabeu to decide the winners of Group F, while Partizan Belgrade and Marseille will battle for a UEFA Cup spot.

In the Monday night Div 1 match Coventry and Sunderland played to a 1-1 draw. Both sides have had a penchant for sharing the points lately, with Coventry drawing six of their last seven and Sunderland six of ten. The Black Cats lost midfielder Colin Healey with a suspected broken leg after a challenge from Youssef Safri in the 80th minute.

Liverpool chairman David Moores has warned manager Gerard Houllier, in a message in the club's annual report, that anything less than qualification for the Champions League is unacceptable. Moores said that beating Manchester Utd. in the Worthington Cup last season did not make up for the disappointment of the loss at Chelsea on the final day, that left the club in fifth place and without Champions League football this term.


Blackburn manager Graeme Souness has been charged by the F.A. with using abusive and/or insulting words to a match official during his side's win over Spurs at Ewood Park on November 29. The Rovers' boss had commented to referee Graham Poll that he had not known that he was a Tottenham supporter, after an apparent foul against a Blackburn player had gone unpunished. Souness was sent from the dug-out. (C'mon Mr. Poll, nobody's skin is that thin).

Isle of Man-based businessman Ed Davies, a long time fan of Bolton Wanderers, could be set to take over the club if a share deal goes through at the Annual General Meeting. Davies has already invested a substantial sum (14 million) in the club and according to chairman Phil Gartside "Ed is the only reason we are in the Premier League. He has given us huge amounts of money. We could have taken the option of administration, but thanks to him we have avoided that". In the event that he becomes the new owner, it is unlikely that the Trotters would have to sell any of their star players, such as Jay-Jay Okocha.


Manchester City chairman John Wardle has moved to end any speculation that Kevin Keegan will leave the club. The manager admitted recently that he was under pressure after exits from both the UEFA Cup and the Carling Cup. Wardle said "People keep talking about Kevin's history of walking out and wondering whether he will walk out on us. I've had no indication from Kevin Keegan that he is going to walk away and I speak to him daily. The manager feels he has let me down, but I don't see it that way. I view it that since he came he has taken us to the First Division championship, to ninth in the Premiership, and we've been back in Europe for the first time in 25 years".
Stories from BBC Sports site.



Footiemad news item

December 8/03

In yesterday's EPL games Everton and Manchester City played to a 0-0 draw and Southampton finally edged Charlton 3-2 after the latter had pulled back from a two goal deficit at half time. The point lifts the Toffees out of the bottom three, just above Aston Villa on goal difference. City's former Arsenal and England goalkeeper David Seaman left the game with what was originally thought to be a hamstring problem, but turned out to be a rib injury. (No diagnosis problem there). Brett Ormerod scored twice for the Saints, one on the stroke of half time and the late winner after Scott Parker had two second half goals for the visitors. Michael Svensson had opened the scoring for the home side in the fifth minute.

In Sunday's F.A. Cup 2nd round games, Hartlepool came away from Conference side Burton Albion with a 1-0 win and will now play Sunderland, at the Stadium of Light, in the next round. A second Conference side, Scarborough, got a thoroughly deserved victory at Div 2 Port Vale and get a trip to Southend in round three.


In the SPL, Aberdeen beat Hibs 3-1, courtesy of Scott Booth's, above right, two late goals, the second of which came from the spot in the last minute. Leigh Hinds, above left, had scored in the first half for the Dons and Stephen Dobbie levelled it just before the hour.It was the smallest crowd of the season at Pittodrie, 7,863 in attendance. In the game at Firhill Park, the faithful saw Partick Thistle win their first league game of the season, beating Motherwell 1-0 on a 59th minute goal by John Paul McBride, below.



Arsenal are expected to announce that building will start on their new 400 million pound stadium at Ashburton Grove. It is thought that lead investors the Royal Bank of Scotland have now agreed the details of a 260 million loan as part of a six-bank consortium. The Gunners now hope work can start early in the new year on the 60,000 seat facility and, if all goes to plan, will be able to open it for the start of the 2006/07 season.

The draw for the F.A.Cup 3rd round.

Wimbledon v Stoke City
Cardiff City v Sheffield Utd
Wycombe or Mansfield v Burnley
Crewe v Telford
Bristol City or Barnsley v Scunthorpe or Sheffield Wed
Portsmouth v Blackpool
Northampton v Rotherham
Fulham v Cheltenham
Man City v Leicester City
Southampton v Newcastle
Yeovil v Liverpool
Birmingham City v Blackburn
Nottingham Forest v West Brom
Watford v Chelsea
Kidderminster v Wolves
Gillingham v Charlton
Swansea v Macclesfield or Cambridge Utd
Leeds Utd v Arsenal
Tottenham v Crystal Palace
Aston Villa v Man Utd
Southend v Scarborough
Sunderland v Hartlepool
Tranmere v Bolton
Preston v Reading
Wigan v West Ham
Middlesbrough v Notts County
Ipswich v Derby County
Coventry City v Peterborough
Everton v Norwich
Bournemouth or Accrington Stanley v Colchester
Bradford v Luton
Millwall v Walsall
Ties to be played the weekend of January 3/4




Footiemad news item

December 7/03


England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson believes Rio Ferdinand should have been suspended for missing his drug test in September, according to newspaper reports. Thank the lord that there is finally some sense of responsibility being shown by someone that matters in the England camp. It is absolutely asinine that the Manchester Utd. and England defender should have been allowed to continue playing after, what I will charitably describe as, his total arrogance and disregard for the rules. He should be banned for as long as is permitted, two years.

There was no change at the top of the EPL yesterday. Leaders Chelsea were held to a 1-1 draw at Elland Road, where Leeds had led through a brilliant individual effort by Jermaine Pennant in the 18th minute. The Blues equalized in the 70th minute, Damien Duff forcing home a rebound after Paul Robinson had saved from Adrian Mutu. Although the London side were constantly going forward, at the end of the day they would be happy with the point.
Arsenal, in second place, looked to be on the way to three points at Leicester, even though reduced to 10 men after Ashley Cole was given a red card 18 minutes from time for a two footed tackle on Ben Thatcher. However, with virtually the last kick of the game, substitute Craig Hignett scored to equalize for the Foxes, as the Gunners defence failed to deal with a high ball in the area which was nodded down by Jamie Scowcroft. Because of his dismissal, Cole will miss three games.
Third place Manchester Utd. made up some ground as they beat Aston Villa 4-0, on two first half goals from Ruud van Nistelrooy and two second half markers from substitute Diego Forlan, for a very easy three points.
The draw with Chelsea lifts Leeds above Wolves at the bottom, the Midlands side going down 5-2 at Tottenham

West Brom and Norwich each picked up a point to stay 1st and 2nd in Div 1. West Brom drew 1-1 with West Ham, getting the point when Hammers' midfielder Hayden Mullins headed into his own net 10 minutes from time. Brian Deane had earlier scored for the East London club. Norwich were held to a 0-0 draw at Millwall, who played the last 10 minutes a man short after Kevin Muscat was sent off. Ipswich beat Derby 2-1 to move into third place, with Sheffield Utd., also reduced to 10 men, going down 3-2 at Burnley.

Not much action in the lower divisions as it was F.A.Cup 2nd round weekend. In Div 3, Hull moved back into second place, beating Bury 2-0, while Darlington won 3-0 against York.

In 2nd round action, Conference side Telford upset Div 2 Brentford 3-0, Christian Moore getting a hat trick for the home team, two coming from the spot. Another Conference side, Accrington Stanley, drew 1-1 with Bournemouth, also Div 2, at Dean Court.

In Scotland, both Celtic and Rangers were winners and increased the gap at the top. Celtic travelled to Livingston and won 2-0, while Rangers edged Dundee Utd. 2-1 at Ibrox. Third place Hearts lost 2-1 at Dunfermline, their fourth consecutive defeat, and the win moved the Pars into fourth spot in the SPL.

In the EPL today, Everton host Manchester City and Southampton entertain Charlton. In the SPL, Aberdeen plays Hibs at Pittodrie and Partick Thistle go against Motherwell at Firhill Park. Two F.A, Cup games are also on the slate, Burton Albion v Hartlepool and Port Vale v Scarborough.

In Spain's La Liga, Real Madrid beat Barcelona 2-1 at the Nou Camp for their first league win in the Catalan capital for 20 years. David Beckham described the match as one of the biggest games in his career.


Alex Ferguson has been given a new four year contract by Manchester Utd., which he could sign as early as today. There had been speculation that the club might have withdrawn the offer after his treatment for a minor heart condition on Thursday. The Scot said, however, that the hospital visit had been planned for two months. The deal will keep Ferguson with the club until at least 2007. "It wasn't going to be signed Saturday night, but we are ready" said the manager.


Despite the disappointing draw at Walker's Stadium yesterday, Arsenal had good news, according to a story in the News of the World. Thierry Henry, who has been linked with moves to Chelsea, Real Madrid and Barcelona in recent months, claims he will never leave Highbury for another club. "I have heard the rumours linking me with Real Madrid but I take no notice," said Henry. "I prefer building something with Arsenal. Winning the Champions League for the first time with the Gunners would mean making history. It's impossible that I could ever wear a Manchester United, Liverpool or Chelsea shirt, or anyone else's. And that's not just talk. I can't see myself coming back to Highbury with any other team because Arsenal is my paradise,"

Leeds chairman John McKenzie has put a 60 million pound value on the club and insists it's worth the price. The immediate threat of administration has been avoided, an agreement having been reached with the club's creditors, and it now has until January 19, 2004 to find a buyer or secure a longer term deal with the bond holders. McKenzie claims the club is now operating at break-even, having slashed 20 million from their costs. There is speculation that former deputy chairman Allan Leighton, who resigned from the board last week, is poised to put forward a rescue package. This is in addition to the interest of the Middle Eastern sheikh, apparently backed by Saudi bussinessmen, that is already a possibility.

Birmingham City may face an F.A. probe following an incident during yesterday's 4-0 loss to Blackburn. A coin was allegedly thrown at Rovers' goalkeeper Brad Friedel, which was given to referee Graham Barber and the official included it in his match report. The club were fined last season after crowd problems during the derby with Aston Villa at St Andrews and one fan was subsequently jailed after confronting Peter Enckelman on the pitch.
Stories from BBC Sports site.



Footiemad news item

December 6/03

In the F.A. Cup 2nd round game played last night, Wycombe and Mansfield drew 1-1. The rest of the matches go today or Sunday.


If Alan Shearer decided he'd like to play in the Euro 2004 tournament, England would pick him, according to assistant coach Tord Grip. He is regarded as the best striker in England by the Swede. With Michael Owen often struggling with injuries, the Newcastle goal machine, and former England captain, would be a good option.

Everyone associated with the five teams from the British Isles, it seems, is delighted with the draw for the World Cup 2006 qualifying groups. At least at this stage of the tournament, hope springs eternal, which is as it should be or why bother to play the games. Sven-Goran Eriksson did allow that he was glad to have avoided Holland. (You have to beat them, or a side that has, at some stage, in order to win it all, but perhaps better to jump that hurdle in Germany).
Stories from BBC Sports site.



Footiemad news item

December 5/03

World Cup Draw

Asian Group

The format is:

Eight groups of four teams
Winners advance
Top two teams in each four-team third-round group qualify
Top two teams qualify
Third-place teams meet in home-and-home play-off
Playoff winner advances to playoff against South America, CONCACAF and Oceania

GROUP 1 Iran Qatar Jordan Laos	GROUP 2 Uzbekistan Iraq Palestine Chinese Taipei	GROUP 3 Japan Oman India Singapore	GROUP 4 China Kuwait Malaysia Hong Kong
GROUP 5 UAE Thailand Yemen North Korea	GROUP 6 Bahrain Syria Kyryztan Tajikstan	GROUP 7 Lebanon Vietnam Vietnam Maldives	GROUP 8 Saudi Arabia Indonesia Turkmenistan Sri Lanka

Oceania Group

Australia and New Zealand get first-round byes
First round two groups of five teams
Top two teams in each group advance
Top two teams in six-team second round advance
Top two second-round teams meet in home-and-away play-off
Winner advances to play-off against South America, Asia and Concacaf

GROUP 1
Tahiti
New Caledonia
Tonga
Cook Islands Solomon Islands

GROUP 2
Fiji
Vanuatu
Papua New Guinea
Samoa
American Samoa

CONCACAF Group

Pots A, B, C and D receive first-round byes
Ten first-round series between Pots E and F
First round winners and Pot D play Pots A, B and C in second round
Second round winners advance to semi-finals
Top two teams in each four-team semi-final group advance
Top three teams in final round qualify
Fourth-place team advances to play-off against South America, Asia and Oceania

GROUP 1 Granada v Guyana Winner plays: United States	GROUP 2 Bermuda v Montserrat Winner plays: El Salvador v	GROUP 3 Haiti Turks and Caicos Islands Winner plays: Jamaica	GROUP 4 British Virgin Islands v St Lucia Winner plays: Panama
GROUP 5 Cayman Islands v Cuba Winner plays: Costa Rica	GROUP 6 Aruba v Surinam Winner plays: Guatamala	GROUP 7 Antigua v Dutch Antilles Winner plays: Honduras	GROUP 8 Canada v Belize
GROUP 9 Dominica v Bahamas Winner plays: Mexico	GROUP 10 US Virgin Islands v St Kitts and Nevis Winner plays: Barbados	GROUP 11 Dominican Republic v Anguilla Winner plays: Trinidad & Tobago	GROUP 12 Nicaragua v St Vincent/Grenadines

African Group

Group 1 Senegal Mali Zambia Togo Liberia Congo

Group 2 South Africa Congo DR Burkino Faso Ghana Uganda Cabo Verde

Group 3 Cameroon Egypt Cote d'Ivoire Libya Sudan Benin

Group 4 Nigeria Zimbabwe Algeria Angola Gabon Rwanda

Group 5 Tunisia Morocco Kenya Guinea Malawi Botswana

European Group

Group 1 Czech Republic Netherlands Romania Finland FYR Macedonia Armenia Andorra	Group 2 Turkey Denmark Greece Ukraine Georgia Albania Kazakhstan	Group 3 Portugal Russia Slovakia Latvia Estonia Liechtenstein Luxembourg	Group 4 France REPUBLIC OF IRELAND Switzerland Israel Cyprus Faroe Islands
Group 5 Italy Slovenia SCOTLAND Norway Belarus Moldova	Group 6 ENGLAND Poland Austria WALES NORTHERN IRELAND Azerbaijan	Group 7 Spain Belgium Serbia and Mont Bosnia Lithuania San Marino	Group 8 Sweden Croatia Bulgaria Iceland Hungary Malta

Ryan Giggs will miss the first two of Wales qualifying matches due to suspension. He was given the ban by UEFA today for his elbow in the face of Russian defender Evseev in the Euro 2004 play-off game in Moscow last month.

Manchester Utd. have apologized to the F.A. on behalf of the club and manager Alex Ferguson for the remarks made by the 'Glasgow gate' after the punishments handed to Arsenal and its players involved in the regettable conclusion to the match at Old Trafford. The F.A. have accepted the apology and now, thankfully, the episode is history. (Subject to the possibility of appeals on behalf of Giggs and Ronaldo).



Footiemad news item

December 5/03

Not a lot of news at this point today, although the draw for the World Cup qualifying will take place in a few hours.

Liverpool manager Gerard Houllier, still furious after the midweek Carling Cup loss to Bolton, launched a scathing attack on his players. "They have got to know they have a responsibility" he said. "If you can't bear that responsibility, you have to move on or rot in the reserves". The Frenchman, under pressure himself as a result of mostly mediocre performances this season, has demanded that the players raise their game at St. James' Park on Saturday. The Anfield side will be without Harry Kewell, who injured an ankle on Wednesday, for the game against Newcastle. The Magpies are climbing the table after a very slow start to the season and are currently one place and one point behind Liverpool.

Manchester Utd. boss Alex Ferguson underwent treatment yesterday to correct a minor heart irregularity. The routine procedure took less than two hours and he will be back at work today, with his noon news conference. (My first thought, on reading the headline, was that they were trying to find it). This may give the Scot and/or the club reason to rethink the managerial set-up at Old Trafford, currently no number two man, and the proposed contract extension.

The F.A. Cup 2nd round matches will be played this weekend, with one game on tap tonight, Wycombe at home to Mansfield. The winners will go into the drum with the big boys for round three, with the possibility of some lucrative match-ups being a big incentive.

The draw for the CIS Cup semi finals, north of the border, has been made and an Old Firm clash in one is a distinct possibility, provided Celtic can beat Hibs in a tough quarter final, yet to be played, at Easter Road. The other pits Dundee against Livingston. The matches will be played on February 2nd and 4th, 2004.

FIFA are insisting on single country bids to stage the 2010 World Cup, the first to be played on the African continent. Tunisia and Libya, who had submitted a joint bid, had their hopes dashed after a meeting of the world governing body's executive committee in Frankfurt. South Africa, Morocco and Egypt are bidding individually to host the event. The winner will be announced on May 15, 2004, in Zurich.

We will have the World Cup draw later.



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December 4/03

The draw for World Cup 2006 qualifying groups will be made Friday in Frankfurt, Germany. England got a boost with the news that they will be one of the top seeds in the European section and will not face other top seeded teams in the group stage. The other seven are France, Portugal, Sweden, Czech Republic, Spain, Italy and Turkey. The Republic of Ireland are in the second group of seeds, Scotland in the third, Wales in the fourth and Northern Ireland in the fifth. In total, 198 countries will compete for the right to be among the 32 taking part in the finals in June and July 2006.

Carling Cup 4th round action concluded yesterday. West Brom beat Manchester Utd. 2-0, Bolton were 3-2 winners at Liverpool, Chelsea got by Reading 1-0, Aston Villa won 3-0 against Crystal Palace, Tottenham defeated Manchester City 3-1 and Middlesborough edged Everton 5-4 on penalties after a scoreless game. The draw for the quarter finals, to be played the week of December 15 is:-
Bolton v Southampton
Aston Villa v Chelsea
West Brom v Arsenal
Tottenham v Middlesborough

A little light in the tunnel is expected at Elland Road, with Leeds looking as though they may have staved off the immediate threat of administration. It is believed they have reached agreement with the three biggest bondholders, giving them more time to restructure their finances. According to reports, the club is thought to now have until the middle of January to come up with a satisfactory formula. Deputy chairman Alan Leighton is expected to announce he is stepping down from the board, although he has pledged a 2.2 million pound injection, in the form of a loan, but is looking for other investors to come forward. How this will affect the possible involvement of Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Mubarak Al-Khalifa is, at present, not clear.


Southampton will mark the death of club legend Ted Bates, above, with a second minute's silence. The Saints' first attempt to show respect, before the Carling Cup game with south coast rivals Portsmouth on Tuesday, was disrupted by the ignorance of some visiting fans. A second try will be made before the Premiership game with Charlton on Sunday. The club president, who also played for and managed the Saints, died last week.

In Scotland, Dundee, who went into administration last week, saw a small ray of sunshine in the CIS Cup quarter final game with Hearts, edging the Edinburgh side 1-0 AET. It will give the troubled club another pay-day in the semi final. Former owners, Peter and Jimmy Marr, have written off the six million they had invested in the club before it went into administration and say they will put in more to help the club through these times, although they could not guarantee the survival of the Dens Park side. Still no sign of the promised millions from lawyer Giovanni di Stefano is forthcoming.

Rangers cruised into the semi finals of the competition with a comfortable 3-0 win over Div 1 St. Johnstone.

There is no dearth of applicants for the hot seat at Firhill Park. Faroe Islands manager Henrik Larsen and former Chelsea boss John Hollins have both applied, as have Graham Rix, a former assistant at Stamford Bridge, and ex Motherwell manager Tommy McLean, along with others who have sent resumes to both Partick Thistle and St. Mirren. The Love St. side, incidentally, picked up three valuable Div 1 points last night with a 2-1 win at Queen of the South. Dundee head man Jim Duffy has said that he is not a candidate for the Jags' job.

Wales winger Ryan Giggs faces a UEFA disciplinary hearing today for the 'elbow in the face' incident in the first leg of the Euro 2004 play-off against Russia in Moscow. He will probably have to wait until Friday, however, for the verdict on his fate as there is a backlog of cases to be heard by Europe's governing body.
Stories from BBC Sports site.



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December 3/03

The best story of the day comes from the Midlands. Notts County, the world's oldest professional football club, founded in 1862, has been saved from the jaws of extinction, after a deal to buy the club was finally reached this morning. The Blenheim Consortium has bought the Division 2 outfit just one week before it faced expulsion from the Football League. The Meadow Lane club will now be able to end their 17 month spell in administration. Joint administrator Paul Finnity said "I can confirm that we have met all the conditions set by the Football League for a successful transfer of Notts County's membership in the Football League to the Blenheim Consortium". The League had set December 9 as the deadline. It's good to hear positive news lately and all concerned are to be congratulated.

In Champions League play last night, Galatasaray got two goals from Hakan Sukur to beat an under strength Juventus 2-0 in Dortmund, to keep their hopes of reaching the knock-out stage alive. Chelsea's final group stage game is scheduled to be played in Gelsenkirchen on December 9, at the Arena AufSchalke, the stadium that will host the final of the competition in May. Opponents Besiktas, however, are less than ecstatic with this arrangement and have appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), whose decision is expected today. UEFA decided to move the match, a Besiktas home game, after the bomb attacks in Istanbul.

Two games in the Carling Cup 4th round were played last night. Arsenal beat Wolves 5-1 and Southampton got past Portsmouth 2-0. The remaining six games will be played today. On the way to St. Mary's, the Portsmouth coach (bus) narrowly missed being involved in a 14 vehicle pile-up on the M-27. Manager Harry Redknapp was quick to praise the driver for his fast reaction.


To mark its Golden Jubilee, UEFA invited nominations from all 52 member associates for their outstanding player of the past 50 years, to be included in the European Hall of Fame. 1966 World Cup winning captain Bobby Moore, above, was chosen as England's representative. Denis Law (Scotland), John Charles (Wales), Pat Jennings (Northern Ireland) and Johnny Giles (Republic of Ireland) were the others from Britain to make it to the Hall. Other notables include Just Fontaine (France), Fritz Walter (Germany), Dino Zoff (Italy), Ferenc Puskas (Hungary), Johann Cruyff (Holland) and Eusebio (Portugal). We will get a full list of inductees as soon as possible, but already there are a couple of surprises.


Liverpool manager Gerard Houllier wants the League Managers' Association to act over criticism of players by its members. He was reacting to Birmingham boss Steve Bruce, who accused Florent Sinima-Pongolle of diving. "I was disappointed because I never make any comments against my opposition. Sometimes the LMA should get involved to stop it" he said. Possibly, the Anfield boss should get a memory check-up, as it seems to me, he was very vocal in his criticism of Blackburn's Lucas Neill after his tackle on Jamie Carragher earlier in the season.

Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole has been suspended for two games and fined 10,000 pounds for improper conduct and insulting and abusive language to a match official. The incident occured during a West Ham game against Bolton last season, while Cole was still with the Upton Park club. He was fined an additional 5,000, reprimanded and warned as to his future conduct for another, admitted, improper conduct charge for his involvement in a mass confrontation on the pitch at the end of the game. Cole was seen to throw punches in the direction of Bernard Mendy. West Ham defender Rufus Brevett was earlier fined 1,000 pounds for three improper conduct charges stemming from the same incidents in the game, which, if memory serves, was not on national television.
Stories from BBC Sports site.



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December 2/03


Manchester Utd.'s Ryan Giggs, above, and Christiano Ronaldo were fined 7,500 and 4,000 pounds respectively, at the F.A. hearing over their improper conduct charges, held yesterday. Unbelievably, the club will consider whether or not to appeal what are already very light penalties in view of what has gone before. (Did Man U. and the F.A. work out a deal?). With the exception of Alex Ferguson's charge over his statements made previously, suggesting a lack of integrity and impartiality at the F.A., one would hope that this unpleasant incident could be put to bed. Giggs faces a UEFA inquiry on Thursday, into alleged use of an elbow in the face of Russian defender Evseev during the Wales' Euro 2004 play-off game in Moscow on November 15.

Chelsea have denied any interest in Sven-Goran Eriksson as their next manager. The Blues' acting chief executive Paul Smith dismissed reports that the England boss had been offered an 18 million pound deal at the Bridge, or indeed, that there had been any talks on the subject. Smith said that owner Roman Abramovich was delighted with Claudio Ranieri's handling of the side and, with their nose currently in front in the EPL, so should he be. Eriksson, meanwhile, has said he will decide his England future before Euro 2004 next June.


Patrick Vieira will get his first start for Arsenal in over two months tonight. The Gunners face Wolves in the Carling Cup 4th round at Highbury, Arsene Wenger is hoping his skipper can get at least an hour in the game. The other game going tonight is Southampton against Portsmouth and chairmen Rupert Lowe and Milan Mandaric have called on fans to behave as the south coast teams battle for Hampshire bragging rights. The remainder of the games in the round will be played on Wednesday.

Two games are slated in Div 1 tonight. Rotherham host Coventry and Sunderland take on Wigan.

Also being played tonight is the postponed Champions League Group D game between Galatasaray and Juventus. The match, postponed last week because of the terrorist bomb attacks in Istanbul, has been moved from Turkey and will be played in Dortmund. Juventus have already qualified for the knock-out stage and will rest some players, but the Turkish side must win to keep alive any hopes of advancing.

North of the border, Dunfermline chairman John Yorkston has warned 11 players out of contract at the end of the season they will not be offered increases to re-sign at East End Park. In fact, the majority will have to take pay cuts to remain with the club.

Partick Thistle have denied making any approach to Dundee manager Jim Duffy. Jags chairman Tom Hughes is to demand the source of the approach and is trying to reach the Dens Park administrator Tom Burton, in an attempt to diffuse the simmering row between the clubs. Burton announced on Monday that Thistle had asked for permission to speak to Duffy, having sacked manager Gerry Collins a day earlier.

Peter Hetherston has resigned as manager of Albion Rovers. He had just returned from a lengthy touchline ban when he was sent to the stand for alleged use of abusive language during Saturday's Scottish Cup defeat by Montrose. The third division club's boss had earlier been involved in the verbal derision of the country's first female league referee.
Stories from BBC Sports site.



Footiemad news item

December 1/03

Chelsea moved to the top of the EPL yesterday with a 1-0 win over Manchester Utd. at Stamford Bridge. The goal was scored by Frank Lampard from the penalty spot, after Roy Keane brought down Joe Cole, in the 28th minute. Blues boss Claudio Ranieri urged caution after the game, saying all three teams at the top will change positions between now and the end of the season. He did admit, however, that he was very happy to be in first place. Old Trafford manager Alex Ferguson agreed with the Italian's assessment, commenting that the result would have been far more important had the game been in March. He was very critical of referee Alan Wiley for his decision on the penalty.

Arsenal dominated the game at Highbury, but had to settle for a point after a 0-0 draw with Fulham. A combination of less than crisp finishing and some goalkeeping heroics from Edwin van der Sar in the visitors' net denied the Gunners all three points. It must be said, however, that a better directed header from Steed Malbranque in the 66th minute might have stolen the points for the Cottagers. The point moved Fulham into fourth place, ahead of Charlton on goal difference, with the Addicks losing 1-0 at home to Leeds on Saturday.

West Brom, Norwich and Sheffield Utd. were all winners on the weekend, so retain their places in Div 1. Ipswich, 3-2 winners at Cardiff, moved into fourth spot while Wigan, who were 'Hammered' 4-0 at Upton Park, drop to fifth. Bryan Robson's managerial debut with Bradford was a success, as his side turned a two goal half time deficit into a dramatic 3-2 win over Millwall, with a last minute goal from Michael Branch.

In Div 2, QPR and Plymouth stayed one and two as both sides picked up three points. Brighton, who beat Wrexham 2-0, moved into third ahead of Barnsley, held to a 3-3 draw at home to Stockport.

Oxford and Doncaster won on the weekend to keep the two top spots in Div 3. Mansfield, 3-0 victors at Northampton. took third place ahead of early leaders Hull, who went down 2-1 at Bristol Rovers.

Manchester Utd. have signed a new sponsorship deal with Vodafone, worth 36 million pounds over four years. This extends the existing 30 million four year deal that expires in May.

The F.A. has admitted it does not know how to punish Rio Ferdinand after missing his drug test. There are no rules in place for such an eventuality, which is amazing, and a working group, with assistance from Olympian Seb Coe, has been set up to deal with such areas. Ferdinand's hearing is scheduled for December 18/19, nearly three months after the offence, and the defender has been playing regularly for United during this time. FIFA chief Sepp Blatter is clearly annoyed that the process is taking so long and with the fact that Ferdinand is allowed to continue playing. On another matter, Man U's Ryan Giggs and Christiano Ronaldo will appear before the F.A. disciplinary panel today to answer their improper conduct charges.

Manchester Utd. have confirmed that U.S. billionaire Malcolm Glazer, owner of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the NFL, has bought another 4.5% of the club's stock, raising his share of the club to 14.31% and re-igniting more takeover speculation.

In the Scottish Premier League, Celtic came from behind on Saturday to beat Partick Thistle 3-1 at Parkhead. Jags' boss Gerry Collins was fired on Sunday, after the club's 10th league loss in a row, although a win for his side in this game would have been an upset of monolithic proportions. Rangers stayed five points back, but needed a Stephen Hughes goal in stoppage time to beat Hibs 1-0 at Easter Road. Dundee Utd. got their first home win of the season, and first win in six years over Hearts at Tannadice, with a 2-1 victory over the Edinburgh side.
Stories from BBC Sports site.