Carragher: No chance of Liverpool title this season

Ian Ferris — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 17:04:06 +0000

Dirk Kuyt

Manchester United

Fernando Torres

Jamie Carragher

Chelsea

Liverpool

Jamie Carragher accepts the best chance of Liverpool silverware this campaign is in the cup competitions.

The Reds slipped to their lowest Barclays Premier League finish - seventh - for a decade last season – and have too much ground to make up on Chelsea and Manchester United.

A championship title, which Carragher has never won in his 14-year professional career at Anfield, will probably have to wait.

"People have said 'You've done this and that for Liverpool' but we've not won a trophy for four years and that is annoying me a little bit," said the 32-year-old defender.

"I certainly don't want to go on another couple of years not winning one before I finish at Liverpool.

"I don't see any reason why we can't win a trophy this season or the next couple.

"The one I haven't won is the league but I suppose that will be very difficult this season going from seventh last season.

"But I see no reason why we can't have a good go and have a trip to Wembley."

Carragher is confident the fitness of Fernando Torres, who has yet to get through an entire Liverpool season without any injury.

"If you take into account the changes at the club in the sports science department I think up to now we have done quite well at the start of the season with injuries," said the Reds vice-captain.

"We are looking for Fernando to stay as fit as possible but I think David Ngog in the last 12 months is a completely different player, and his start to the season has been fantastic.

"We've also got Dirk Kuyt and Ryan Babel as well."

Need your Liverpool news fix? Click here for all Reds news and transfer rumours.

Tranmere host exchange trip with J.League executives

Ian Ferris — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 16:09:47 +0000

League One Tranmere are to exchange ideas with executives from Japan's J.League at this weekend's home clash with Peterborough.

A contingent of 16 Japanese football officials will spend two days at Prenton Park before watching Saturday's clash against Posh.

As well as visiting Rovers, the group will also spend time at Football League headquarters in Preston and Bolton.

Tranmere chief executive Mick Horton said: "We are delighted to be welcoming officials from the J.League later this week.

"Football is growing rapidly in Japan and the chance to exchange ideas with their executives was something we couldn't refuse.

"We are very proud the visiting party decided to spend time at Tranmere Rovers particularly as one of the key areas they wish to learn about is our club's community work, something we place great importance in."

New Zealand Football sign five year sponsorship deal

Ian Ferris — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 15:48:24 +0000

World Cup

New Zealand Football (NZF) has agreed a multi-million-dollar, five-year sponsorship deal with the ASB bank described as the biggest in the history of the sport in the country, reports Sport Business

The bank will name the New Zealand Premiership and the All Whites home internationals against Honduras and Paraguay next month, but a significant emphasis will be placed on developing grassroots programmes.

“Year in, year out, there are a lot of good ideas, but there’s never enough money to put the coaches on the ground, to put the programmes in place, to keep the material alive and really follow it through," said NZF chairman Frank van Hattum.

“There might be some temptation to see this as short-term World Cup fervour," he said,” added ASB chief executive Charles Pink.

“This is a five-year programme. I hope plus-plus over time. Most of our partnerships are over decades. This is something we starting talking to New Zealand Football about long before the World Cup. We are in there for the long term.”

Kilmarnock skipper glad distraction of transfer window over

Ian Ferris — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 14:48:43 +0000

Kilmarnock

Craig Bryson is glad to see the back of the summer transfer window, as he can now concentrate on Kilmarnock.

The Killie skipper was a wanted man as Tuesday's deadline approached, with Hearts seeing two bids for his services knocked back.

The 23-year-old midfielder never pushed for a move and has no qualms at remaining at Rugby Park.
"I'm relieved the window has now closed," Bryson said in the Daily Record.

"Hearts had a couple of bids rejected on deadline day but there's nothing I could do unless the clubs agreed a fee.

"So I'll just get my head down, work hard and try to play well.

"It's nice that other clubs want you, it shows you must be doing well, but it's not to be just now and I'll carry on doing well for Kilmarnock.

"With the window now closed I can just concentrate on playing football.

"I tried to blank out all the speculation as unless there was an agreement between the clubs there wasn't much I could do apart from go out on a Saturday and keep playing my normal game.

"Every player wants to play at the highest level they can and if I get the chance I'd like to do that. But I'm very happy to be at Kilmarnock."

Rangers Bougherra relieved transfer window closed

Ian Ferris — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 14:47:55 +0000

Arsenal

Rangers

Madjid Bougherra claims he is happy to still be a Rangers player, now that the transfer window has ended.

The Algeria international was strongly linked with a number of clubs over the past few months, with a switch to the Premier League regularly touted.

Arsenal were just one of the teams reported to be keen on the former Charlton and Sheffield Wednesday centre-half.

The 27-year-old defender insists he never wanted to leave and, despite falling foul of Walter Smith's wrath on a couple of occasions last season, is adamant that he is enjoying life at Ibrox.

"I am happy at Rangers," said Bougherra. "It's now certain I won't be leaving. My family are happy here and I am happy on the pitch.

That makes me satisfied."

Need your Rangers news fix? Click here for all Gers news and transfer rumours.

Celtic target Shittu has other offers to consider

Ian Ferris — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 14:47:05 +0000

Celtic

World Cup

Former Bolton defender Danny Shittu, a reported Celtic target, is still looking to find himself a new club.

The Nigeria international left Bolton earlier this week after cancelling his contract by mutual consent.

A number of clubs are thought to be monitoring Shittu's situation after he impressed during the World Cup with Nigeria.

Celtic are rumoured to be tracking the former Watford man as Neil Lennon considers his defensive options, while clubs in France, Turkey and the Middle East are all believed to interested in the central defender

"I believe quitting Bolton was the right step to take as I didn't have options to play at Bolton," the 30 year old told skysports.com. "I wish the club all the best in the future and now I have to find myself a new club.

"I am now reviewing my options and there quite a few interested sides in me from Europe and the Middle East.

"Hopefully I can announce my where my future lies shortly after I return from international duty."

Need your Celtic news fix? Click here for all Hoops news and transfer rumours.

Rangers colleague urges Lafferty to learn from past mistakes

Ian Ferris — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 14:45:34 +0000

Hibernian

Rangers

Steve Davis has offered some advice to his Rangers team-mate Kyle Lafferty, who has never been far from controversy.

The 22 year old was sent off in the recent 3-0 victory against Hibernian along with opposing midfielder Kevin McBride and irritated manager Walter Smith in the process.

"Kyle knows what he has to work on. He also knows there comes a time when you have to learn from past actions. Hopefully those things are behind him now and he can move on.

"Kyle has had an up and down time at Rangers with various things, but if he can settle down and focus he can be the player we all know he can.

"I think he has been unfairly criticised or pilloried at times. He has become a bit of a target. That's possibly because of things he has done, most of the time because of a lack of experience.

"He is still young though and people forget that. He is only 22 so he is still maturing as a person and a player. He got a move to Rangers at a very young age and it was a big move for him. Things get scrutinised in the Old Firm, but Kyle is young and I hope he proves the critics wrong."

Need your Rangers news fix? Click here for all Gers news and transfer rumours.

Bramble targets Sunderland for European placing

Ian Ferris — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 14:43:29 +0000

Manchester City

Sunderland

Titus Bramble believes Sunderland can finish in the Premier League's European places this season.

The 28-year-old centre-half has been in good form since his summer move from Wigan, having linked up with former Latics boss Steve Bruce once more.

"We have some really good players here and if we can get some better luck with injuries, I don't see why we can't push for a European place," he told the Sunderland Echo.

"Of course, getting a win over a team like Manchester City helps give everyone a lift, the sort of performance and result which boosts confidence.

"We have a platform to build on now and hopefully we can go to Wigan after the international break and get something from that game as well.

"I know the away form was a problem last season for Sunderland and I've already been part of one poor performance on the road and I don't want another, especially as it's against the manager's and my former club.

"We were bad against West Brom and it just wasn't good enough really. We have shown how well we can play against Manchester City - now we have to maintain those standards."

Need your Sunderland news fix? Click here for all Black Cats news and transfer rumours.

Birmingham boss plays down European qualification expectations

Ian Ferris — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 14:42:41 +0000

Birmingham City

Alex McLeish is confident his Birmingham summer signings will enhance the Blues, but not necessarily enough to earn a European berth.

Chile winger Jean Beausejour, Czech Republic defender Martin Jiranek and Belarus midfielder Alexander Hleb joined Blues on a busy transfer deadline day, prompting talk the club could improve on last season's ninth-place finish.

"That's nonsense to start talking about that," he said. "I thought silly season finished when the window closed.

"I don't think we should be thinking about that. We're still a fledgling Premier League team. We want to establish ourselves and develop again.

"If we finish in the top 17, like the targets I set last season, then I'll be happy.

"Some people might not be happy with that but for me there's around eight teams that are going to be pretty hard to keep in touch with over the course of the season.

"There's another 12 out there playing to stay in the Premier League."

McLeish is confident, however, that his new arrivals will move Birmingham in the right direction.

"Collectively they'll enhance the quality of the squad," he said.
"We try to take a step up with each season, and sometimes you take a step up within each window.

"We believe that we have again enhanced the overall quality of the squad.

"But it doesn't guarantee you anything because we know that we're not a surprise package this year and that teams will be waiting for us.

"We're well aware of that challenge, and I'm throwing the gauntlet down to the players that did so well last year, and saying to them 'do it again guys'."

Need your Birmingham City news fix? Click here for all Blues news and transfer rumours.

Watford failed in loan approach for Hamburg winger

Ian Ferris — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 14:41:34 +0000

Hamburg turned down a loan approach from Watford for winger Anis Ben Hatira, general manager Bastian Reinhardt has confirmed.

The 22-year-old was invited for a trial period at West Ham this summer and had appeared likely to depart the Imtech Arena before the transfer deadline.

But Reinhardt has revealed the Bundesliga club rejected the offer of a six-month loan deal for the youngster from Watford.

"Anis has definitely stayed on with us," Reinhardt told Hamburg's official website.

"In recent days he was off to England to have a trial period with Watford and they were trying to land him on a six-month loan deal, without knowing him as a player.

"This looked nonsense to him and to our club. This is why he is staying on."

Russia deny World Cup bid tainted by racist supporters

Ian Ferris — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 14:40:49 +0000

World Cup

The head of Russia's 2018 World Cup bid has insisted that the country does not have a problem with racist fans.

Alexei Sorokin, the bid's chief executive, also claimed that a banner aimed at Nigerian striker Peter Odemwingie by Lokomotiv Moscow fans showing a banana and saying: "Thanks West Brom" was not racist.

Odemwingie himself however has no doubts that the banner was racist.

Sorokin told BBC Sport: "The Russian Football Union doesn't accept any demonstrations of racism.

"I know that this banner applied to a certain player and to the manner of how he played in his last matches," said Sorokin.

"Apparently fans were not happy with the fact that he plays better for Nigeria and worse for the club. That's why they have shown their satisfaction after he left. And there is nothing racial in it.

"If there would be another player - from Russia, Denmark, Norway or Japan, for example - the reaction could be the same. In Russia 'to get a banana' means 'to fail a test somewhere'."

Sorokin said some black players such as Brazil's Vagner Love had become fans' heroes.

He added: "About five years ago one Russian international was booed as well and received the same banners. This is a free expression of the will but there are all kinds of measures for those who misbehave.

"The Russian football union doesn't absolutely accept any demonstrations of racism and roughly restrains them with all available methods."

Galina Kozhevnikova, deputy director of the Russian SOVA Centre for Information and Analysis, which monitors extremism in the country disputes Sorokin's claim however.

She said: "The phrase 'to get a banana' existed in the time of the Soviet Union and has almost disappeared from the slang. The RFU simply doesn't want to recognise that banner as a racism."

Odemwingie said he had regularly been subjected to racism in Russia and had no doubts about the banner.

He said: "Sadly, it's a picture of a minority group in Russia - it really makes you feel sick but that is what it is."

Ex-Hull striker Swan insists Tigers must play Bullard

Ian Ferris — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 14:40:02 +0000

Former Hull striker Peter Swan believes the club have "no excuses not to play Jimmy Bullard" now the transfer window has closed.

Hull's biggest wage earner Bullard has been frozen out of the first-team so far this season with the Tigers hoping to offload him.

But Bullard must stay at the KC Stadium at least until the transfer window reopens in January and Swan told the Hull Daily Mail: "The end of the transfer window means that City have no excuse not to play Jimmy Bullard.

"I don't know what their reasoning was behind not playing him in the first place, but any reason has disappeared now.

"Quite simply he has to come straight back into the side as he's the best player in the Championship by a million miles.

"What City must do now is try at least to get some return on their massive outlay. If you buy a new car you don't leave it in the garage do you?"

Whelan would have walked if Wigan boss Martinez forced out

Ian Ferris — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 14:39:21 +0000

Tottenham

Wigan Athletic

Wigan chairman Dave Whelan has revealed he would have resigned from the Latics had Roberto Martinez been hounded out of the club.

Martinez found himself under pressure after Wigan lost their first two Premier League games of the season and conceded 10 goals in the process.

However Whelan gave Martinez his backing and the Spaniard eased the pressure on him by guiding his side to a shock win at Tottenham.

"I rate Roberto highly and said to the fans, if you want his head, you'll get mine as well," said Whelan.

"Had they (the supporters) insisted, and even if we would have lost at Tottenham and they start crying for his head and had he asked to go, I would definitely have resigned with him."

Need your Wigan Athletic news fix? Click here for all Latics news and transfer rumours.

Stockport boss calls for show of character from his players

Ian Ferris — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 14:38:41 +0000

Stockport boss Paul Simpson admits his side face a huge test of character ahead of this weekend's crunch clash with derby rivals Macclesfield.

Simpson has failed to steer County to victory so far this season and questioned his players' character after last weekend's 4-0 thumping against Shrewsbury.

Simpson said: "We need to find a strength of character that allows us to go into a big game, roll our sleeves up and have a right good go at it.

"The run without a win for a Stockport County's first team has gone on far too long.

"It's a horrible monkey on our back that we've got to get rid of and we've got to do it as soon as possible."

Model plastic players beat photography ban!

Ian Ferris — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 14:37:50 +0000

Southampton

An evening newspaper has come up with an ingenious way to beat League One Southampton's ban on photographers, reports Sky News.

The newspaper resorted to the tiny plastic figures so Swindon Town fans could savour their team's 3-0 drubbing of the Saints on Wednesday night.

They were treated to five key moments of action from the game, which saw the Johnstone's Paint Trophy holders go out of the competition in the first round.

Sports writer Anthony Marshall said: "We were left unable to print images of the match unless we paid Southampton for their own copies.

"But, along with almost every paper - regional and national - across the country, we boycotted that idea and decided to come up with something original and innovative instead."

That is where the Subbuteo models came in.

Said Anthony: "Several members of the sports desk raided their parents' attics and came up with quite a collection of items from the childhood game.

"After a quick paint job we were able to go back to our youths and recreate the key moments from the match."

Anthony, who was at the game in Southampton, sent back pictures from his mobile phone to make sure the Subbuteo re-enactments were as accurate as possible.

Man Utd paid £7.4m for Bebe who was originally offered for £125,00!

Ian Ferris — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 14:36:34 +0000

Manchester United

Manchester United could have snapped up £7.4m signing Bebe for as little as £125,000, according to the Portuguese striker's former coach.

The 20 year old, who arrived at Old Trafford from Portuguese Premier League club Guimaraes, has not played competitive football at a level higher than his native third division.

And Jorge Paxaio, coach of the forward's former team Estrela da Amadora, claims the club offered him around Europe for just 150,000 euros as they urgently hunted cash to avoid a winding-up order last term.

"Last season we had no money at all," Paxaio told the >i>Daily Mail. "We were trying to transfer Bebe to other clubs.

"We had to raise money desperately. We told everyone in England and in Europe: 'For 150,000 Euros you can have him'.

"We couldn't get anybody interested. Nobody trusted him. None of the clubs were interested because he had never played at a high level."

And Paxaio admits he would never have predicted the striker's move to Old Trafford.

"I was surprised with the sudden way it happened with United," he added. "I was hoping he would move to a bigger club in Portugal or a medium-sized club in Europe.

"I didn't expect Manchester United. Having said this, Manchester United have signed an extraordinary player."

The player's former agent Goncalo Rels has reiterated that Ferguson could have picked up the forward at a much lower price if he had moved to sign him earlier.

"Bebe would have been very cheap during last season and then we tore up the contract because he wasn't being paid by Estrela and so then he was free," said Rels.

"A scout from United could have contacted me or the club last season. There was no secret.

"But I understand that the United scout just saw certain games in Portugal and only realised Bebe was a great player when he saw some pre-season games involving Guimaraes.

"If they had looked wider they would have seen him earlier and paid very little. But everyone was the same."

Need your Manchester United news fix? Click here for all United news and transfer rumours.

Ex-Man Utd No2 Queiroz: Liverpool have signed star in Meireles

tribalfootball.com — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 13:06:55 +0000

Manchester United

Raul

Liverpool

World Cup

Portugal coach Carlos Queiroz believes Liverpool have pulled off a transfer coup in former Porto midfielder Raul Meireles.

The former Manchester United assistant manager knows Meireles from his time with national team and believes he has what it takes to be a success Merseyside.

Queiroz said: "I think Raul Meireles is a fantastic player for Portugal.

"He's one of the pillars of the national team. He's a great player and an excellent professional. He has all the conditions to be a success in English football at Liverpool.

"They have just signed the services of a player who stands out for his application, his professional dedication, his technical and footballing quality, and will be very successful for the Liverpool team."

Meireles has won four titles with Porto and been capped 38 times by Portugal, playing in all four of his country's games at this summer's World Cup.

And his national boss thinks Meireles's style of play means he will be well suited to life in the Premier League.

"He's a box-to-box midfielder, he's hard-working, creative, is a good finisher," said Queiroz. "He's consistent, very solid, a great team player.

"He's a great person who is serious, he's a player who has a lot of capacity to communicate. He'll be a great reinforcement for the Liverpool team."

Need your Liverpool news fix? Click here for all Reds news and transfer rumours.

Shevchenko: Man Utd striker Rooney stands alone as ultimate team player

tribalfootball.com — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 13:05:53 +0000

AC Milan

Manchester United

Chelsea

Wayne Rooney

AC Milan legend Andriy Shevchenko has heaped praise on Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney.

Sheva has returned to his first club Dynamo Kiev after successful spells in Italy with AC Milan and a mixed period at Chelsea after moving in 2006 for a fee of £30 million.

On Rooney, Shevchenko told Four Four Two magazine: “No player in modern football can match his efficiency and work-rate, and he’s not egotistical like many men of his speciality.

“He’s the sort of magnificent team player every coach wants in his starting XI.”

Need your Manchester United news fix? Click here for all United news and transfer rumours.

FIFA experts say Man Utd striker Rooney had outstanding World Cup

tribalfootball.com — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 13:05:03 +0000

Manchester United

Steven Gerrard

Wayne Rooney

Liverpool

World Cup

FIFA's technical experts say Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney had an outstanding World Cup!

Rooney did not score in any of England's four games in South Africa and appeared to have been affected by an injury picked up towards the end of last season.

FIFA's technical report, which has been published today, picks out Rooney, Ashley Cole and Steven Gerrard as England's outstanding players.

Rooney is described as a "hard-working, energetic striker; worked hard for team; good technique".

The report was put together by FIFA's 16-man technical study group, including former Liverpool manager Gerard Houllier and ex-Scotland boss and now UEFA technical director Andy Roxburgh.

Need your Manchester United news fix? Click here for all United news and transfer rumours.

Birmingham chief Pannu denies McLeish blow-up over contract talks

tribalfootball.com — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 13:04:29 +0000

Jose Mourinho

Birmingham City

Birmingham City chief Peter Pannu has moved to cool reports of a blow-up with manager Alex McLeish.

Pannu insists his relationship with McLeish remains strong after declaring the Brum manager was no Jose Mourinho.

"Look, this is all nonsense," he told the Birmingham Mail. "We are just perhaps inches away from Alex signing a contract, possibly by next week.

"Our relationship is phenomenal, we are very strong and close, and I want to dispel this notion that there is anything wrong.

"In fact, I spoke to Alex about the Mourinho reference and we laughed about it. In the whole context of the interview I did, it would not have had a sting to it. But to take out the extract like that made it look worse than it was.

"We have just completed some incredible deals before the transfer window shut and we are all looking forward positively - with Alex as our manager."

Need your Birmingham City news fix? Click here for all Blues news and transfer rumours.

Blackburn signing Benjani joins chorus slamming Man City culture

tribalfootball.com — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 13:03:56 +0000

Blackburn Rovers

Manchester City

Blackburn Rovers signing Benjani Mwaruwari is the latest ex-player to attacker the culture at Manchester City.

The 32-year-old forward has now proven his fitness sufficiently to win himself a contract at Ewood Park and while expressing his delight at earning another chance to play in the Barclays Premier League, Benjani has also taken the opportunity to fire a parting shot at his former employers.

Asked what it was like to be at City when they were spending so much money, Benjani said: "It sounds great, but in football money is not everything.

"What is needed is people who can hang around and love you to be there.

"Sometimes you are loved to be there because of money, which is not good. I would prefer to be here without having all those facilities, be happy and trust everyone around you."

Asked if he thought some players at City were interested in money more than anything else, Benjani said: "Yes, it seemed like that and behind the scenes, there is no trust.

"I would prefer to play for a club where you are being trusted and you trust everyone around you."

Need your Manchester City news fix? Click here for all City news and transfer rumours.

West Brom fullback Mattock avoids jail

tribalfootball.com — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 13:02:59 +0000

West Bromwich Albion

West Bromwich Albion defender Joe Mattock has avoided a jail sentence.

Mattock, 20, was given a suspended sentence for punching two men and two women in Liquid Envy in Church Gate, Leicester, on August 30, 2009.

Leicester Crown Court heard that Mattock, who was 19 at the time, hit out after he was given "grief" over a transfer from Leicester.

The Leicester-born player, who is currently sidelined by an ankle injury, joined West Brom last August for £1million, causing anger among many Leicester fans.

The defender, of Grove Road, Leicester, pleaded guilty to a charge of affray at Leicester Crown Court in July.

On Thursday, at the same court, he was handed 10 months' detention, suspended for two years. He was also ordered to complete 150 hours of unpaid work, and to pay £1,500 costs.

Judge Michael Pert QC told the footballer: "You plainly worked hard at your craft and were a successful professional footballer.

"The plain fact of the matter is you were earning what most people would regard as a king's ransom.

"If the price of that is to take some stick in a nightclub in your home city when you had left Leicester for another club, frankly you should have been able to handle it.

"It's plain from what we have seen that you were not able to handle whatever was said to you on that occasion and your behaviour was disgraceful."

Need your West Bromwich Albion news fix? Click here for all Baggies news and transfer rumours.

Man Utd reject Crompton wins praise from Brown, Ferdinand

tribalfootball.com — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 13:02:31 +0000

Manchester United

Rio Ferdinand

Oldham Athletic junior Andy Crompton won praise from Manchester United defenders Rio Ferdinand and Wes Brown after yesterday's reserve-team clash.

The teenager from Stretford, who had six months at Manchester United's Academy, joined Latics two years ago from Fletcher Moss, the junior team where Brown began his playing days.

Crompton said that both Ferdinand and Brown had words of encouragement for him.

"They told me to keep my head down, work hard and, if I do, they are sure I will make it as a professional. And when the England captain says that, I cannot go wrong," he told the Oldham website.

Need your Manchester United news fix? Click here for all United news and transfer rumours.

Van Nistelrooy: Arsenal striker Van Persie no natural goal scorer

tribalfootball.com — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:18:44 +0000

Arsenal

Manchester United

Robin Van Persie

Hamburg striker Ruud van Nistelrooy says Arsenal ace Robin van Persie isn't a natural goal scorer.

Van Nistelrooy has returned to the Holland squad for their looming Euro2012 qualifiers, while Van Persie sits them out due to injury.

"Robin said on television how difficult it was for a striker of the Oranje. He was so honest about it. I knew exactly how he felt," said the Manchester United legend.

"Van Persie does not have this in his blood. And so you see that he has no real goal-getter ... but a great player."

Need your Arsenal news fix? Click here for all Gunners news and transfer rumours.

Van Marwijk happy seeing Van der Vaart make Tottenham move

tribalfootball.com — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:17:53 +0000

Real Madrid

Tottenham

Holland coach Bert van Marwijk is delighted with Rafael van der Vaart's move to Tottenham.

Van Marwijk expects Van der Vaart to play regularly for Spurs, which he wasn't doing at previous club Real Madrid.

"As national team coach, I wasn't happy with the situation," said Van Marwijk.

"For me it is important that all internationals play for a team of great value. Therefore I think it is good that Van der Vaart left Real Madrid for Tottenham Hotspur.''

Need your Tottenham news fix? Click here for all Spurs news and transfer rumours.

Wellington Silva amazed by passion of Arsenal, Man Utd fans

tribalfootball.com — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:17:22 +0000

Arsenal

Manchester United

Arsenal youngster Wellington Silva is enjoying his training stint in England.

Wellington will officially leave Fluminense for Arsenal when he turns 18 in the New Year.

He told Globoesporte: "Since I came to England, I realized that the Europeans - particularly the British - are passionate about football. As I said earlier, last Thursday I faced Manchester United in a friendly match that served as preparation for Arsenal B's season, which will begin in the next 25 days. The game took place in Tallaght Stadium, Dublin, Ireland. Many fans of both clubs went to the stadium, although they were the reserves and in a neighboring country.

"I was quite impressed with the public who attended the game.

"Good to know I'll play in a place where there are many passionate football people, as in Brazil. I hope, on returning to England in the future, the fans of the Gunners are always by my side."

Need your Arsenal news fix? Click here for all Gunners news and transfer rumours.

Kuyt: Liverpool support convinced me to stay

tribalfootball.com — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:16:54 +0000

Dirk Kuyt

Inter Milan

Liverpool

Liverpool attacker Dirk Kuyt admits he was aware of interest from Inter Milan.

Kuyt knows Liverpool rejected an approach from Inter for his services during the summer.

"I have heard that there was interest from Inter Milan," he said. "It's a big club, but Liverpool let me know that I am a key player for them.

"That to me is very important."

Need your Liverpool news fix? Click here for all Reds news and transfer rumours.

Santos demand cut from Man City fee for Robinho

tribalfootball.com — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:16:15 +0000

AC Milan

Real Madrid

Robinho

Santos

Manchester City

Manchester City have been told to cough up by Santos over their sale of Robinho to AC Milan.

Santos chief Joao Vicente Gazzola is demanding money as part of their assistance in reviving Robinho's career last season.

"We have the right to almost 5% of the amount paid by AC Milan to Manchester City as a reward for playing Robinho," said Gazzola.

Santos also expect money from Real Madrid, which sold Robinho to City, after the winger left them for Madrid.

Need your Manchester City news fix? Click here for all City news and transfer rumours.

Aston Villa sounded out Birmingham boss McLeish, Bruce

tribalfootball.com — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:15:37 +0000

Mark Hughes

Aston Villa

Aston Villa have considered raiding a Premier League rival for a new manager.

The Telegraph says Villa had privately let on that they would not be averse to the idea of approaching a manager already in employment - they took soundings over both Alex McLeish and Steve Bruce, while Mark Hughes and David Moyes were both identified as strong candidates.

But it appears as though they have now cooled on the idea.

Need your Aston Villa news fix? Click here for all Villa news and transfer rumours.

Unhappy Fulham keeper Schwarzer eyeing Kaiserslautern move

tribalfootball.com — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:14:57 +0000

Arsenal

Fulham

Mark Schwarzer may quit Fulham in January.

The Mirror says Schwarzer is understood to be considering his options after being denied Champions League football with Arsenal.

The Gunners were desperate to sign the 37-year-old stopper as a replacement for Manuel Almunia.

But Fulham first could not agree terms with the Gunners, then could not get a replacement in themselves in time.

Schwarzer is believed to be mulling over a move back to Germany where he has played before with Kaiserslautern. He is also understood to have several other European clubs keen on his services.

Need your Arsenal news fix? Click here for all Gunners news and transfer rumours.

SuperSport demand Tottenham up bid for Khumalo

tribalfootball.com — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:14:22 +0000

Tottenham

SuperSport United have turned down a bid from Tottenham for defender Bongani Khumalo.

SuperSport chairman Khulu Sibiya says it is not certain that Khumalo will move to the Premier League and is waiting for an improved bid.

"This is not a foregone conclusion and Tottenham will have to pitch a new and better offer during the next transfer window. Negotiations will open then," Sibiya told the Sowetan.

He added: "People have very short memories when it comes to these kind of things. I can assure you that Bongani will look back and thank us.

"I am of the opinion that the player has a lot of potential and if he is patient and concentrates on cementing his place in the national team he will go far.

"I feel sure that in a few months Bongani's stature will have risen and he will secure himself an even better overseas move."

Need your Tottenham news fix? Click here for all Spurs news and transfer rumours.

Aston Villa, Everton made Djalo contact on deadline day

tribalfootball.com — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:13:46 +0000

Genoa

Aston Villa

Everton

Newcastle United

Sporting Lisbon remain concerned about losing star attacker Yannick Djalo.

Djalo saw the transfer deadline fall on Tuesday still a Sporting player, but A Bola says the Lisbon club expect the transfer hype to ramp up again in January.

Aston Villa, Everton, Newcastle United, Genoa and several clubs from Germany all made contact with Sporting and Djalo's agent Giovanni Ferraro on Tuesday, but without following up with a concrete bid.

Djalo's asking price is set to drop to €5 million in January.

Need your Aston Villa news fix? Click here for all Villa news and transfer rumours.

Arsenal made deadline day offer for Lyon keeper Lloris

tribalfootball.com — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:13:01 +0000

Arsenal

Arsene Wenger

Fulham

Arsenal made a deadline day move for Olympique Lyon goalkeeper Hugo Lloris.

French sources say Gunners boss Arsene Wenger turned to Lloris after learning that Fulham would not consider selling Mark Schwarzer.

Arsenal tabled a €16 million bid for France No1 Lloris, but with just hours left in the summer market, Lyon refused to consider the proposal so late in the day.

Need your Arsenal news fix? Click here for all Gunners news and transfer rumours.

Man City striker Santa Cruz knocked back Fenerbahce

tribalfootball.com — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:12:25 +0000

Manchester City

Fenerbahce received a knockback from Manchester City striker Roque Santa Cruz on transfer deadline day.

Fener attempted to bring the Paraguay international to Istanbul this week.

But Santa Cruz told Turkish reporters: "I do not want to leave England. It's not the right time for my family to leave the country."

Need your Manchester City news fix? Click here for all City news and transfer rumours.

Everton defender Yobo: I jumped at Fenerbahce offer

tribalfootball.com — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:11:54 +0000

Everton

Everton defender Joseph Yobo is happy with his loan move to Fenerbahce.

Yobo insists he didn't think twice when learning of Fener's interest.

"I decided to leave for Fenerbahce as soon as I heard about the offer," said the Nigeria international. "I have played against them and I know they're a great club.

"I am aware of the great expectations, I will work hard and together we can achieve great things."

Need your Everton news fix? Click here for all Toffees news and transfer rumours.

Schuster disappointed Spurs striker Keane rejected Besiktas

tribalfootball.com — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:11:26 +0000

Tottenham

Tottenham striker Robbie Keane rejected a move to Besiktas yesterday.

Keane was informed that Besiktas coach Bernd Schuster was keen to work with him, but he was unsure about moving to Istanbul.

"I wanted a smaller striker, a good finisher, but he would not come," said Schuster yesterday.

Need your Tottenham news fix? Click here for all Spurs news and transfer rumours.

Blackpool, Newcastle linked with ex-Marseille defender Bonnart

tribalfootball.com — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:10:49 +0000

Celtic

Marseille

Blackpool

Newcastle United

Blackpool and Newcastle United are tracking Olympique Marseille defender Laurent Bonnart.

Bonnart is off contract from l'OM and still to find a club. Lyon, PSG and Lille are all keen to keep the right-back in France.

However, he is also attracting interest from Blackpool, Newcastle and Scottish giants Celtic.

Need your Blackpool news fix? Click here for all Seasiders news and transfer rumours.

Everton striker Saha proud of France return

tribalfootball.com — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:10:18 +0000

Everton

Everton striker Louis Saha is proud to be back in France's squad.

Saha has been included in Laurent Blanc's new-look setup.

"It is something very special. I take it with both an honor and pride," said Saha. "I was a little surprised to be summoned but I'm happy to be here and motivated to help the team.

"Especially as it's very difficult to be part of this group when you see all the great players who play in big clubs."

Need your Everton news fix? Click here for all Toffees news and transfer rumours.

Rennes chief Dreossi on Gyan sale: Sunderland made offer we could not refuse

tribalfootball.com — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:09:47 +0000

Sunderland

Rennes admit they weren't actively seeking to sell new Sunderland signing Asamoah Gyan this summer.

Sunderland splashed out a record fee for the Ghana international on transfer deadline day.

Rennes general manager Pierre Dréossi said: "We wanted to keep Asamoah for another year and sell Ismael Bangoura, but the offer from Sunderland was not refusable neither for the player nor the club.

"We would have preferred to settle the transfer 15 days before the closure of the market. This would have allowed us to consider things more."

Need your Sunderland news fix? Click here for all Black Cats news and transfer rumours.

West Ham rejected free agent Clerc

tribalfootball.com — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:09:14 +0000

Blackburn Rovers

West Ham United

West Ham United rejected the chance to sign free agent Francois Clerc on Tuesday.

Clerc held talks with the Hammers and had hoped to sign as a free transfer, but the English club went for Blackburn Rovers fullback Lars Jacobsen instead.

Former Lyon defender Clerc remains available and is currently training with Nice.

Need your West Ham news fix? Click here for all Hammers news and transfer rumours.

Everton striker Saha: More to my game than goals

tribalfootball.com — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:08:55 +0000

Everton

Everton striker Louis Saha says there's more to his game than goals.

Saha's early season form and fitness has won him a return to the France squad.

He says: "I have great experience, but what matters above all, are the stats. I know I must score goals, create chances, make assists.

"A striker operates under different criteria. The stats can be critical. If a player scores, you might say he did a great match. But if he runs and does not score, people will be severe. It's always the same."

Need your Everton news fix? Click here for all Toffees news and transfer rumours.

Real Madrid tried to involve Inter Milan in auction for Spurs signing Van der Vaart

tribalfootball.com — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:07:58 +0000

Inter Milan

Real Madrid

Tottenham

Tottenham signing Rafael van der Vaart could have been preparing to face his new club in the Champions League.

Before selling him to Tottenham, Real Madrid offered the midfield schemer to Inter Milan in the final hours of the summer market.

Real were convinced Inter would be interested, but received a negative response from their director general Marco Branca.

Now, Inter will face Van der Vaart in the Champions League as they're grouped with Tottenham.

Need your Tottenham news fix? Click here for all Spurs news and transfer rumours.

Hasan Salihamidzic in contact with Fulham, Birmingham

tribalfootball.com — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:07:29 +0000

Bayern Munich

Juventus

Birmingham City

Fulham

The minders of Juventus midfielder Hasan Salihamidzic are sounding out Premiership clubs about a January move - if not sooner.

Salihamidzic is being frozen out at Juve and knows he has little future in Turin.

The former Bayern Munich would welcome a move to England, where his representatives have been in contact with Birmingham City and Fulham.

A release from his contract hasn't been ruled out between transfer windows.

Need your Birmingham City news fix? Click here for all Blues news and transfer rumours.

Arsenal linked with new bid for Fiorentina keeper Frey

tribalfootball.com — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:06:47 +0000

Arsenal

Arsene Wenger

Cagliari

Fiorentina

Fulham

Fiorentina goalkeeper Sebastien Frey is being tracked by Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger.

Sardinian sources say Cagliari will sell their goalkeeper Federico Marchetti to Fiorentina in January in the event that the Viola cash in on Arsenal's interest in Frey.

Frey was linked with the Gunners at the beginning of the summer market before manager Arsene Wenger turned his attention to Fulham veteran Mark Schwarzer.

Need your Arsenal news fix? Click here for all Gunners news and transfer rumours.

Cagliari drop asking price for Arsenal, Fulham target Marchetti for January market

tribalfootball.com — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:06:06 +0000

Arsenal

Cagliari

Fulham

Cagliari coach Pierpaolo Bisoli has confirmed goalkeeper Federico Marchetti will need to be sold in January.

Bisoli has been ordered not to play Marchetti, who was a target for Arsenal and Fulham during the summer.

"Marchetti is a great professional and a nice guy. He will continue to train with us with the same determination as he has always shown," said Bisoli.

Sardinian sources say Cagliari will drop their asking price to £5-6 million in January to help Marchetti get his move to England.

Need your Arsenal news fix? Click here for all Gunners news and transfer rumours.

Lotito: Lazio will consider Man City striker Santa Cruz in January

tribalfootball.com — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:05:22 +0000

Lazio

Manchester City

Lazio president Claudio Lotito has explained why they didn't push through a deal for Manchester City striker Roque Santa Cruz.

Lotito went well down the road for Santa Cruz, but says he's now happy to wait until January to try again for the Paraguay international.

"We decided to take our time and wait for the market in January to consider whether he will be necessary for inclusion, since in that role we have already Zarate, Floccari, Foggia and Rocchi," said Lotito.

"So we'll talk about him again in the winter (market)."

Need your Manchester City news fix? Click here for all City news and transfer rumours.

Gazza hopes Newcastle fans cool Carroll expectations

tribalfootball.com — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:04:46 +0000

Aston Villa

Newcastle United

Geordie legend Paul Gascoigne hopes Newcastle United fans do not expect too much too soon from Andy Carroll.

Carroll has made a flying start to life back in the Premier League after grabbing four goals in three games.

Gazza told the Evening Chronicle: “We can’t judge him too early, he scored a hat-trick against an Aston Villa team that were down and battered.

“You expect a centre-forward to get three if the team scores six. But he’s doing really well, he’s taking his goals really well.

“I feel sorry for Andy Carroll in a way – he got a hat-trick and the fans will expect it every week now! It’s up to the players to help him and keep up the performances, they have set the standards now.

“It’s how he does in the next eight or nine games.

“You can’t get in on just one or two games, he’s got to do it week in, week out. Time will tell. He’s a big lad and he throws centre-halves about when they try to mark him tightly.”

Need your Newcastle United news fix? Click here for all Toon news and transfer rumours.

Man City keeper Hart happy Given staying

tribalfootball.com — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:03:54 +0000

Manchester City

Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart is happy Shay Given is staying.

At Eastlands, Given has decided to stay and fight for his place — and give advice to Hart.

“I can’t speak highly enough of the guy,’’ said Hart. “I respect him and look up to him not just as a goalkeeper but as a person. I just love working with him.

“We’ve both been quite open about the situation and we both respect each other. We both know it’s not our decision so we’ve not been malicious towards each other.

"I’ve no doubt he had endless clubs wanting him, but it’s not quite as simple as saying ’I want to go there and turning up’.’’

Need your Manchester City news fix? Click here for all City news and transfer rumours.

Curbishley: I would love Aston Villa job

tribalfootball.com — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:03:29 +0000

Aston Villa

West Ham United

Former Charlton Athletic and West Ham United boss Alan Curbishley admits he'd love to take the Aston Villa job.

Curbishley says he would “love” the Villa job.

He told the Mirror: “Anyone would be interested and I am, for sure. They are a massive club.

“I know a lot about them having played there and I would love it.”

Need your Aston Villa news fix? Click here for all Villa news and transfer rumours.

Crewe keen to extend deal for Chelsea keeper Taylor

tribalfootball.com — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:03:00 +0000

Chelsea

Crewe are looking to extend the loan spell of Chelsea goalkeeper Rhys Taylor, manager Dario Gradi has confirmed.

The 20-year-old stopper was signed as cover for the injured Steve Phillips and has made six appearances for the Railwaymen this season.

"He's keen to stay and I'm keen for him to stay, the question is on what basis," Gradi told BBC Radio Stoke.

"He's done well, he's very quick and he keeps the ball out of the net which is a good start.

"Chelsea have been tracking him and they're pleased with him, they're pleased with us and he's happy here.

"I'd like his for as long as possible but I don't want to trap him should he lose his place to Steve Phillips."

Need your Chelsea news fix? Click here for all Chelsea news and transfer rumours.