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181

Football / Black Cats accept striker bids

« on: January 11, 2007, 11:53:36 AM »

Black Cats accept striker bids
By Mark Buckingham -  Created on 10 Jan 2007
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Sunderland are set to sell Jon Stead and Chris Brown after accepting offers for the strikers.

Stead has just returned to The Stadium of Light after scoring three goals in 17 appearances on loan at Derby County.

He had been keen to join The Rams permanently, but the promotion hopefuls are not the club to have a bid accepted by Sunderland.

Brown, who has netted three times in 16 outings this season, could also be on his way out after Roy Keane agreed to an offer from an unnamed club.

Keane confirmed Derby had a bid for Stead rejected last week and explained his reasons for accepting the two offers.

"Jon Stead and Chris Brown were last night given permission to speak to clubs and they are in talks as we speak," Keane told the club's official website.

"It's not Derby (for Stead). They made a bid last week which we turned down.

"Another club came on to me two nights ago, we've agreed a deal and I spoke to Jon last night. He's gone for talks and we'll see what happens.

"With us bringing in Carlos (Edwards), it will release Stephen Elliott to play up front. We have David Connolly, Daryl Murphy and now we've got Anthony Stokes, and we've also got Yorkie.

"I didn't want too many players going out on loan again, but we said that if one or two concrete offers came in, we'd consider them and then I would put it to the players."
http://home.skysports.com/list.aspx?hlid=440657&CPID=10&clid=56&lid=&title=Black+Cats+accept+striker+bids
Looks like carlos causing man to get sold

182

Football / LiverpooI look to Leto

« on: January 09, 2007, 06:05:32 PM »

Argentine club Lanus claim Liverpool are in discussions to sign promising midfielder Sebastian Leto.

The 20-year-old has been tracked by Argentinian giants River Plate, while an unnamed Spanish club are also rumoured to be keen.

But Lanus have now broken off negotiations with River Plate and have revealed talks are taking place with Liverpool.

A fee of £1.85million has been mooted for Leto, with Lanus vice-president Ruben Ferreti hopeful of concluding a deal with the Premiership club.

"We have ended the conversations with River because they say that Leto is too expensive for their budget, but we have an expectation because we have received phone calls from Liverpool for the player," Ferreti told www.ole.com.ar.

"It seems to be that they would accept what we want for the player.

"Liverpool is interested, but we have to keep on having conversations. Nothing has been agreed yet.

"I think that the negotiations are going in the right way and, if we arrange something with Liverpool, it will surely be before the end of this week."

If Liverpool do tie up a deal for Leto, he will become the second Argentine youngster to move to Anfield in the past year after Gabriel Paletta.

The centre-half joined The Reds from Banfield last summer, although he has yet to make a significant impact on Merseyside
 http://home.skysports.com/list.aspx?hlid=440524&CPID=8&clid=14&lid=2&title=LiverpooI+look+to+Leto
How much midfirelders Liverpool want?,this is gonna cause drama with them midfielders at liverpool

183

Football / Who do you support in the EPL?

« on: December 17, 2006, 07:44:54 PM »

I am trying to get an idea of how many people on here does really support teams in the EPL, if you support a team other than the list above state the team's name,FOR EVERYONE, say how long you have been a supporter of that team.I  am a supporter of man.u for 9 years now and still behind them just like the national team.

184

Football / Fergie taunts Mourinho

« on: December 16, 2006, 01:43:16 PM »

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has taunted Chelsea counterpart Jose Mourinho over the Portuguese tactician's assertion that Chelsea can go up a level.

Ferguson has laughed off Mourinho's warning and claims Chelsea should be worried they might get worse instead of better.

Mourinho suggested after Wednesday's win over Newcastle that United are playing at their maximum, while Chelsea still have a lot to offer as they look to close the five-point gap on the league leaders.

Ferguson insists he does not pay much attention to Mourinho's mind games and is only concentrating on his own team.

"Yes, Chelsea could find a new level," said Ferguson "They could get worse.

"I actually think Chelsea's level at the moment is better than it has been over the past two years.

"I didn't see their game on Wednesday and to be honest, I am not going to pay much attention to what they are doing. I prefer to concentrate on my own team because we are doing everything right.

"Even if we were two points behind Chelsea, I would still be delighted with the way things are going.

"I know we are going in the right direction and I know we have an outstanding chance. That is the only thing that matters to me."

Looking ahead to Sunday's clash with West Ham, Ferguson accepts his side will face a tougher challenge because of the arrival of Alan Curbishley as the club's new manager.

"There is no doubt Sunday will be a harder game for us now," added Ferguson.

"The West Ham players will have an increased energy and desire because they will want to convince and impress their new manager.

"But maybe that will be a good thing for us because we will have no illusions about the task that awaits us."
http://home.skysports.com/list.aspx?hlid=435567&CPID=8&clid=1&lid=2&title=Fergie+taunts+Mourinho

185

Football / Henry wearing TOMMY HILFIGGER

« on: December 06, 2006, 12:50:26 AM »

I saw on FSC that Henry signed a deal to wear Tommy Hilfigger clothes,and if i am not mistaken that man said he did not make his clothes for black people so feel free to correct me if i am wrong.

186

Football / Is it a coincidence that Joe Public's uniform is made by adidas?

« on: December 04, 2006, 08:40:44 PM »

I was watching Joe Public uniform and i notice their brand was adidas is this a coincidence?or they always had that brand.

187

Football / Arsenal vs Bolton

« on: November 25, 2006, 01:28:14 PM »

Bolton won 3-1,beautiful goal by Anelka,he scored twice

Anelka shoots down Gunners
By Lewis Rutledge -  Created on 25 Nov 2006
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Nicolas Anelka scored twice as Bolton moved up to third in The Premiership with a 3-1 victory over Arsenal.

The Gunners dominated large chunks of the second half and hit the woodwork three times, but Bolton were the stronger team in the opening 45 minutes and were ultimately indebted to the class of Anelka.

Bolton have become something of a bogey team for Arsenal in recent seasons, with their physical approach making them one of Arsene Wenger's least favourite opponents.

In the cauldron of The Reebok Stadium it was perhaps therefore surprising to see Theo Walcott drafted in to replace Thierry Henry, but the teenager was quickly into the action and created a glorious chance for Emmanuel Adebayor in just the third minute with a good run and cross.

The Togo international fired straight at Jussi Jaaskelainen though, and The Gunners were made to rue the missed opportunity as Bolton took the lead after nine minutes.

The simplicity of the goal served to highlight Arsenal's fallibility at set pieces, as Abdoulaye Faye crept into the near post to head home El Hadji Diouf's corner.

Arsenal's players were visibly rattled as Bolton continued to outmuscle them in midfield, and complained to the referee on numerous occasions as the challenges flew in.

For the most part Arsenal were just second best and had no right to protest, but they were entitled to feel angry when Kevin Davies escaped with a yellow card for shoving Emmanuel Eboue to the floor after the right back had confronted him about a foul.

Bolton continued to unsettle Arsenal as the game descended into an ugly battle for much of the first half, but they paid the price for their own aggression as both Nicky Hunt and Quinton Fortune sustained injuries.

There was little sign of where the next goal would come from, until Anelka stunned his former club with his first Premiership goal for Bolton in first half injury time.

The goal was almost worth the three-month wait for Totters fans, as he stepped inside from the left after being picked out by a long crossfield pass from Davies, and then unleashed an unstoppable, swerving shot past Jens Lehmann and into top right corner.

However, Bolton switched off at the back moments later and saw their lead cut to one before the half time whistle could go, as Gilberto rose unchallenged in the box to head in Cesc Fabregas' corner.

Freddie Ljungberg then tested Jaaskelainen with a shot from close range, while Fabregas forced another good save out of the Bolton keeper as Arsenal looked to maintain their momentum at the start of the second half.

For the first time in the match the Londoners found their passing rhythm, and Bolton were pegged back virtually inside their own area.

Walcott skipped down the right wing and crossed cleverly to Freddie Ljungberg, but the Swede was denied by the woodwork as his header ricocheted off the crossbar to safety.

Bolton clung on admirably and restricted Arsenal's chances, while Ivan Campo even managed to break forward far enough to see a penalty appeal waved away as he went down under pressure from Gael Clichy.

Campo looked less assured in his defensive duties, and Adebayor bamboozled him with a clever turn before poking a tame shot straight at Jaaskelainen.

Against the run of play Bolton almost made it 3-1, but Lehmann kept his side in the game with a superb double save. The German leapt to his left to parry after a long free kick was inadvertently flicked on by Eboue, and then pushed the ball onto the bar as Anelka seized on the rebound.

There was nothing Lehmann could do to deny Anelka after 76 minutes though, as the striker was released by a through ball from Campo and slotted his shot into the bottom left corner with aplomb.

Arsenal kept pressing in the final 15 minutes and both Adebayor and Fabregas rattled the post with ferocious drives from the edge of the area, but there was a sense of deflation in the air for The Gunners as the final whistle blew.

Wenger's side now have only the faintest of chances of winning The Premiership, but Bolton may now march on with realistic dreams of qualifying for the UEFA Champions League this season.

http://home.skysports.com/list.aspx?hlid=431221&CPID=8&clid=30&lid=2&title=Anelka+shoots+down+Gunners

188

Football / Eto'o pans Sheva's Blues choice

« on: November 02, 2006, 12:01:13 PM »

Barcelona striker Samuel Eto'o claims that Andrei Shevchenko made a major mistake by opting to join Premiership champions Chelsea last summer.

The Ukrainian cost the West Londoners £30 million, but has struggled to justify that fee with a return of just two goals to date.

He did break his duck at Stamford Bridge with the opener in his side's 2-1 win over Portsmouth two weeks ago, but has struggled to adapt to life in The Premiership.

Eto'o, who is sidelined until the New Year with a knee ligament injury, feels that Chelsea's style of play is at the root of Shevchenko's problems, insisting The Blues' 'defensive' approach limits his opportunities.

Indeed, he feels that staying put in Milan would have been in the 30-year-old's best interests and believes his reputation has also been tarnished by his relationship with owner Roman Abramovich.

"I have many friends at Chelsea and we often speak," Eto'o told www.worldfootballers.com. "He is perceived as Roman Abramovich's pet and he doesn't get clean assists to score.

"I believe Shevchenko has made a mistake.

"At Milan everyone plays football and for a forward this is crucial because you have more scoring possibilities.

"Chelsea play more defensive football and the two strikers struggle

 
 i guess chelski don't play football 
http://home.skysports.com/list.aspx?hlid=426305&CPID=8&clid=8&lid=2&title=Eto'o+pans+Sheva's+Blues+choice
 

189

Football / Defoe defends 'bite' incident

« on: October 23, 2006, 11:44:14 AM »

Defoe defends 'bite' incident
By Phil Jackson -  Created on 23 Oct 2006
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Tottenham Hotspur striker Jermain Defoe insists the reaction to his bite on West Ham United's Javier Mascherano has been 'blown out of all proportion'.

The England striker reacted to a bad challenge from behind from the Argentinian midfielder in Spurs' 1-0 win at White Hart Lane.

He moved his head towards Mascherano in retaliation, and bit the World Cup star's arm through his shirt, as a skirmish between the teams followed.

Both players were booked by referee Steve Bennett for their parts in the incident and Defoe has defended himself after hitting the headlines.
 
"This has been blown out of all proportion. The referee was standing right over me and if he felt I had done anything bad he would have sent me off," a statement issued by Defoe's agent read.

"The incident doesn't look great on TV and I accept that as a role model to kids I have a responsibility to conduct myself in the right way which I always try to do on and off the pitch."

Despite the outcry, the Football Association are yet to act, as The Hammers have also looked to play down the controversy
http://home.skysports.com/list.aspx?hlid=423849&CPID=8&clid=6&lid=2&title=Defoe+defends+'bite'+incident

i hope that man had he shots

190

Football / Birchall seeks T&T peace

« on: October 21, 2006, 12:31:39 PM »

Birchall seeks T&T peace
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Coventry City's Trinidad & Tobago midfielder Chris Birchall insists he has been powerless to act in the latest club versus country row to have exploded.

Birchall and his team-mate Stern John were called up for their country's friendlies against St Vincent and Panama earlier this month.

Sky Blues boss Micky Adams claimed the games were 'meaningless' and the club wrote to Fifa to try to force the duo's premature return.

For 22-year-old Birchall, stuck in the middle, it has been a real quandary and he admits he just wants to patch things up between the parties for the future.

"I accept that friendlies don't have a great deal of meaning but, as players, we don't have a choice in the matter," Birchall told the Coventry Telegraph.

"It is difficult for everyone involved because the club want us to stay and our country want us to go, so I understand both parties.

"It is a difficult situation because in normal circumstances, obviously we want to play for both club and country.

"The gaffer has been great with me about it."

191

Football / best come back

« on: October 16, 2006, 08:31:35 PM »

this was a tough decision between Kanu and Solskjaer for me,they both in form after  bad past seasons

192

Football / Fergie's injury worries/kool over international injuries

« on: October 13, 2006, 03:16:44 PM »

Fergie's injury worries
By James Pearson -  Created on 13 Oct 2006
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The latest on United's injury situation
Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed a number of his Manchester United stars have returned from international duty with minor knocks.

The Scottish tactician had the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Louis Saha on show for their respective countries in Euro 2008 qualifiers and while Saha is fit, Ronaldo is doubtful to play at The JJB on Saturday.

"We've got a couple of bumps and bruises we have to attend to. Hopefully they'll be fit for tomorrow," explained Ferguson ahead of the trip to Wigan.

"(Saha's) fine. He had 60 minutes on Wednesday night. He's fit. No problem.

"some players come back injured and you have to accept that. They are internationals there is nothing you can do about that. Hopefully we'll have a team to get us a result.

"We're in a good position, top of the league, and we want the stay there. The form of the team, in particularly in the last game against Newcastle, is superb.

"In that game, the intensity of the performance for the 90 minutes was excellent, it never stopped."

Ronaldo is more of a worry for Ferguson and the experienced tactician is hoping swelling in his ankle will have reduced sufficiently for him to line up against The Latics.

"He got an ankle knock in the second half (against Poland). He's getting treatment today," he added. "We want to give him a chance if we possibly can.

"He kept on for more than 30 minutes with the ankle injury which although it was not a serious ankle injury, none the less playing with it has created a bit of swelling and we have to try and get rid of that."

United welcomed back Ryan Giggs to training this week following a hamstring strain, although the trip to Wigan, live on Sky Sports 1, is likely to come too soon for the Welsh wizard.

Ferguson is not ruling out Giggs playing some role against The Latics, but believes Tuesday's UEFA Champions League clash with Copenhagen will be a more realistic target.

"He's trained the last few days," said Ferguson. "It may be a bit early and with a game on Tuesday I think there is more of a focus on that.

"He's certainly travelling with us tomorrow. It's good to have him back."

Meanwhile, The Red Devils boss is urging England fans to give Steve McClaren more time at the helm of The Three Lions following their disappointing midweek loss to Croatia.

"The important thing is to let him get on with it. I think he's got the ability," he added on his former United assistant.

"I think once again you get an over-reaction. It becomes pretty abusive.

"He's young and he's got the experience of Terry Venables with him. To think you're going to go to Croatia and win there easily, I don't know what world you're in."

Ferguson is also confident Wayne Rooney will break out of his slump sooner rather than later as every game he plays is a step in the right direction.

"I don't think he played badly on Wednesday. I've spoken to the lads and that and I think he did well.

"He's gradually getting his game back and it'll come back. There are no fears about that.

"You can train as much as you like, but in terms of getting timing and the tempo of your game right there's only one thing that helps that and it is playing games.

"I'm confident he'll get that very, very soon. What we need is a bit of patience and wait.

"Every defender in the country knows the boy will come to life. He just needs games."

why can't club coaches see this club vs country thing like fergie?if these clubs wanna make ah big issue when players come back injured then we should complain when they get injured playing for they club and can't represent the country.

193

Football / Thread for T&T vs Panama

« on: October 07, 2006, 09:22:47 PM »

i say this game will be 3-1 to Trinidad

194

Football / pussy striker morientes

« on: September 21, 2006, 08:59:09 AM »

Prem too tough for Moro
Thursday 21 Sep 2006
William Hill - First for Premiership Football Betting. Live betting on all major televised games...

Fernando Morientes has blamed the physical nature of English football for his inability to make an impact during his 18-month spell at Liverpool.

The Spain striker joined the Reds from Real Madrid in a £6.3million deal in January 2005, but scored just 12 times in 60 appearances before being sold to Valencia at a huge loss at the end of last season.


FERNANDO MORIENTES Morientes, who has netted five goals in three outings for his new club, told Sport: "I wanted to return to what I knew and play the kind of football in which I felt more comfortable.

Official sports products with fast worldwide delivery, gives you Your Kit-Quick! "I didn't like the physical nature of the game in England or the referees who let more things go, and who blow for fewer fouls than they do here.

"A striker isn't protected from rival defences there,
                                                                                                                                                    What he thought,defenders woulda just let him score like that,the EPL is far one of the hardest leagues in europe.                                                                                                                                             http://www.4thegame.com/club/lfc/news/193978/prem_too_tough_for_moro.html                                                                                                     

195

Football / Rooney: Better than Best

« on: September 21, 2006, 08:29:59 AM »

Rooney: Better than Best
By Phil Jackson -  Created on 21 Sep 2006
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Wayne Rooney believes he can be the greatest Manchester United legend of all time, according to Rio Ferdinand.

The 20-year-old England striker has been a sensation at Old Trafford since moving to the club after Euro 2004.

And club and international team-mate Ferdinand has revealed the supreme confidence of the precocious talent, which has driven him to a cult status at the Theatre of Dreams.

"We were talking about [George] Best, Bryan Robson and [Eric] Cantona and how they were legends at United and he went, 'I'll be the best player to play for United', and smiled," Ferdinand revealed in his book Rio My Story.

"Deep down he really does believe he is, but he's not being cocky.

"People can see he's so good that it's possible he will be the best United player of all time, provided he can steer clear of the unfortunate injuries."

The starlet has struck up a strong friendship with midfielder Paul Scholes for The Red Devils, and the centre back has given an insight into the menacing genius both players share.

"In training we always muck about for a couple of minutes before we start properly and Wazza, like Paul Scholes, is always trying different things saying, 'I'm going to hit the crossbar from here' or 'I'm going to hit the corner flag' or 'I'm going to drill it off the floor and where do you want it'," Ferdinand added.

"You have to be on your guard because Wazza and Scholesy will aim to knock your head off if you haven't got your wits about you."

Rooney will get the chance to stake his claim for greatness again as United take on Reading live on PremPlus on Saturday from 5.15pm.
http://home.skysports.com/list.aspx?hlid=417315&CPID=8&clid=1&lid=2&title=Rooney:+Better+than+Best

196

Football / Becks: I can't tell my boys I've been axed from England

« on: September 20, 2006, 09:14:11 AM »

BECKS: I CAN'T TELL MY BOYS I'VE BEEN AXED FROM ENGLAND
According to The Sun:
DAVID Beckham yesterday admitted he cannot bear to tell his sons that he has been axed from the England squad...The Real Madrid star - seen as a doting dad - said: 'The boys watch the game with me and they say, 'Why are you not playing today Daddy?' I said, 'Well, I want to spend more time with you.' And they are like, 'Oh, we are so happy!''

sorry BECKS, that sad story still won't help yuh to get back in the England squad no time soon maybe ever

197

Football / United scoop monthly honours

« on: September 09, 2006, 09:12:08 AM »

United scoop monthly honours
By Graeme Bailey -  Created on 9 Sep 2006
ROONEY - MY STORY SO FAR
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Manchester United's perfect start to the new season has been rewarded after Sir Alex Ferguson and Ryan Giggs picked up the Premiership Manager and Player of the Month awards.

Ferguson guided his side to three victories in the opening month of the season - the only Premiership side to still have a 100 percent record.

United's opening month saw victories over Fulham, Charlton and Watford.

32-year-old Giggs has had a sparkling start to the new season, but amazingly this is the first time the Welsh sensation has taken the award - unlike his boss who takes the prize for the 17th time.

"The awards are testimony to the fantastic manner in which United have opened the new campaign, playing an exciting brand of fast and attacking football," said Jim Hytner, from the Barclays Awards Panel.

"It's hard to believe Giggs has never received the accolade before, but he thoroughly deserves the award for the performances he's put in during August."
  :beermug:Don't forget they going for 4 out of 4 against Tottenham today on FSC and on a small note highflying Everton beat up Liverpool 3-0 and Assenal down1-0 at half time.

198

Football / Real and RSL reach partnership agreement

« on: September 03, 2006, 10:41:25 PM »

Real and RSL reach partnership agreementAssociated Press


SALT LAKE CITY -- Real Salt Lake and Real Madrid reached a 10-year agreement that includes the joint training of young players and games between the teams every other year.

Real Salt Lake owner Dave Checketts announced the deal Friday. He has been trying to get an agreement in place since naming his team for the European club two years ago.

Madrid visited Salt Lake City last month and beat the American club 2-0 in an exhibition. Madrid will return to Utah in 2008, when Salt Lake hopes to be in its new stadium in Sandy.

Real Madrid will also help build a soccer academy in Salt Lake City for up to 200 players. Salt Lake will send players each February to train at Madrid's facilities
 
I don't like the MLS but i have to say that is good buisness for them,and as much as i don't like the MLS i have to admit the league is getting bigger.

199

Football / which EPL team has the best defence or offence?

« on: September 02, 2006, 11:19:30 AM »

i like Portsmouth defence,Liverpool has the best offence and Man.u is the best team

200

Football / Vieri only getting paid $1,500.00

« on: August 29, 2006, 08:21:20 PM »

Vieri back in Bergamo
By Nadia Carminati -  Created on 29 Aug 2006
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Ten years after leaving Atalanta, Christian Vieri has returned and signed a one-year deal with the Bergamo side.

Vieri had been available on a free transfer after spending just one month with Sampdoria before annulling his contract, and Serie A newcomers Atalanta confirmed on Tuesday they had captured the Italian international.

The veteran striker first left Atalanta to join Juventus in 1996, and after a lengthy career with most of Italy's top teams the 33-year-old has been welcomed back to Stadio Azzurri D`Italia.

After missing out on the World Cup finals due to injury the Australian-born striker had signed for Sampdoria but then performed a dramatic u-turn and quit three weeks ago.

Vieri was believed to be considering retirement, but his close relationship with Atalanta president Ivan Ruggeri has seen him return to his previous home on a deal that stipulates he be paid the minimum wage of €1,500 per month.

"The player has big motivations and Bergamo's environment is ideal for him," sporting director Giancarlo Osti told Rai TV.

Atalanta are also expected to confirm the arrival of another old-boy on Wednesday, with Cristiano Doni set to sign a two-year deal after leaving Mallorca.

201

Football / all man.u haters read and weap

« on: August 20, 2006, 12:13:50 PM »

Red Devils thrash Fulham
By Mark Buckingham -  Created on 20 Aug 2006
ROONEY - MY STORY SO FAR
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A Premiership record crowd was treated to an Old Trafford exhibition as Manchester United emphatically put down an early title marker with a 5-1 demolition of Fulham.

The 75,111 fans crammed into the expanded venue bore witness to a devastating first-half performance from United, in which the hosts scored four times in the opening 20 minutes.

Louis Saha opened the scoring against his former club and Ian Pearce turned into his own net, while World Cup foes Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo proved there is no lingering bad blood with a goal apiece.

Heidar Helguson's deflected shot off Rio Ferdinand lifted Fulham before the break, but Rooney scored another in the second half in a one-sided affair.

Fulham started brightly with debutant Jimmy Bullard spying some slack defending from United to feed a free kick into Papa Bouba Diop, who shot straight at Edwin van der Sar.

But the visitors' resistance lasted just seven minutes as The Red Devils took the lead with a well-worked goal. Saha flicked Rooney's cross-field ball on to Ryan Giggs and promptly darted between the two Fulham centre halves to glance in the Welshman's centre.

Van der Sar made simple stops from a Diop header and Bullard free kick before United scored the first of three goals in the space of five minutes.

A clever pass from Giggs found Rooney, the ball broke for Ronaldo to play Saha into space and his low cross was turned past Antti Niemi by experienced defender Pearce.

United needed no second invitation to go for the jugular and made it 3-0 on 16 minutes. Saha's athletic volley was pushed out by Niemi and Rooney was on hand to convert an easy opportunity from close range.

The Cottagers' defence was spreadeagled and the hosts capitalised again on 19 minutes when Rooney's deep cross evaded Franck Queudrue and his old sparring partner Ronaldo arrived late at the far post to prod past a helpless Niemi.

Saha should have inflicted further damage midway through the first half, but he failed to connect cleanly to a precise ball into the box from fellow Frenchman, Patrice Evra.

On the half hour, the ubiquitous Paul Scholes almost got in on the act when his low drive from 25 yards skidded back off the base of the post and hit Niemi on the back, with the Finnish keeper recovering in time to prevent the ball crossing the line.

Fulham finally brought some cheer to a thoroughly miserable half for Chris Coleman's side on 41 minutes when Helguson collected Bullard's pass and saw his left-foot drive ricochet off Ferdinand and loop tantalisingly over van der Sar.

Gary Neville, who has been struggling with a calf injury, sat out the second half, which started in tepid fashion until Michael Brown incurred the wrath of Giggs for a vicious lunge on the Welshman which should have brought a red card, instead of a yellow.

Giggs was booked for a clumsy attempt at retribution and he was soon appealing for a penalty when his cross hit Liam Rosenior on the hand, but a spot kick would have been a harsh award.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Park Ji-sung were given a run-out on the hour mark before United created a fifth goal on 64 minutes which was a lesson in simplicity.

Scholes fed Ronaldo, who released Wes Brown down the right flank and his pull back was effortlessly swept home by the unmarked Rooney.

The England ace supplied Ronaldo with the chance for what should have been the Portuguese's second goal on 70 minutes, but the winger placed his shot wide of the upright when sent in behind a hapless Fulham defence.

United's intricate passing and movement regularly left Fulham outnumbered and Niemi was on hand to make low stops from a Ronaldo drive and deflected Scholes effort.

Fulham boss Coleman may not have expected much from the game given his side's woeful away record last season, but he would have anticipated greater endeavour, while United will be aware they will face much sterner examinations as the season progresses.

Click here for player ratings

Manchester United Team Statistics Fulham
5 Goals 1
4 1st Half Goals 1
8 Shots on Target 6
9 Shots off Target 7
1 Blocked Shots 3
5 Corners 2
15 Fouls 21
2 Offsides 1
1 Yellow Cards 1
0 Red Cards 0
83.8 Passing Success 73.3
29 Tackles 29
75.9 Tackles Success 58.6
65.5 Possession 34.5
45.8 Territorial Advantage 54.2


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202

Football / 07AUG06 headlines in the England newspapers

« on: August 07, 2006, 02:09:18 PM »

Today's newspaper headlines

On the back pages of Monday's English papers...


• THE SUN: Ashley Cole will be left behind by Arsenal as they head for tomorrow's Champions League qualifier with Dinamo Zagreb.

• Also: Terry Venables will be unveiled as England's number two today after signing his FA contract last night...

Gareth Southgate will step up his search for new faces after striker Dirk Kuyt snubbed a move to Middlesbrough.

• DAILY MIRROR: Harry Redknapp will today complete a £1.6million swoop for Peru defender Juan Vargas, on the advice of international team-mate Nolberto Solano.

• Also: Charlton striker Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink last night predicted Chelsea's new £30million hitman Andriy Shevchenko could flop...

Paul Ince is to have further talks with Swindon boss Dennis Wise this week about becoming player-coach at the County Ground.

• DAILY MAIL: Arsene Wenger withdrew Ashley Cole from Arsenal's Champions League qualifier against Dinamo Zagreb as his £20million transfer to Chelsea inched closer last night.

• Also: Martin O'Neill's arrival as Aston Villa manager has sent the Villa Park tills into overdrive...Even a week into his relationship with new coach Brad Gilbert there is no doubting the extra glimmer in Andy Murray's eye.

• DAILY EXPRESS: Joe Cole faces a scan today that will reveal whether he is going to need a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

• Also: Sol Campbell will complete his move to Portsmouth today after agreeing terms with the south-coast club over the weekend...

The American billionaire bidding to buy Aston Villa is planning to build a super-casino on land owned by the club.

• DAILY STAR: Steve McClaren has been rocked by the loss of four top England stars in the build-up to his first game in charge.

• Also: Paul Jewell has told £2million hitman David Connolly he has to prove himself at Wigan this season.

• DAILY TELEGRAPH: Michael Carrick will have to wait until September 9 to make his Premiership debut.

• Also: The Football Association insist they would welcome any evidence from Alan Curbishley to back up his claim he was once offered a bung.

• THE INDEPENDENT: Luke Chadwick has been given the all-clear by doctors after collapsing with dehydration during Stoke's game against Southend.

• THE TIMES: Stuart Pearce has confirmed Manchester City have received an approach from Portsmouth for David James.


 
I just want to say that the American that wants to buy Aston Villa should not build a casino on the grounds,it's not something kids who attend these games should be around,besides it's just not right.My opinion

203

Football / Carlos Tevez Thread.

« on: August 07, 2006, 01:46:03 PM »

Tevez could be on the move
By Mark Buckingham -  Created on 7 Aug 2006
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Argentina international Carlos Tevez could leave Corinthians, according to the Brazilian club's chief investor Kia Joorabchian.

Tevez's future with Corinthians has been cloudy of late after a bust-up with supporters last month over a gesture towards the fans.

Though the forward apologised for his indiscretion, he conceded it could be tough for him to stay in Brazil.

He has repeatedly been linked with a move to a major European club and some reports claim Tevez has been offered to Manchester United.

Joorabchian, who has recently questioned his own position with Corinthians, did not reveal if any clubs had bid for the 22-year-old.

But the Iranian businessman did admit that he could no longer guarantee that Tevez will stay with his current side.

"I guaranteed Tevez's permanence at other times, but I cannot do the same now," Joorabchian told Radio Bandeirantes.

"Even so, it is sad thinking about him going.

"I do not know if he will go tomorrow, in the next month or at the end of the year.

"It depends on him."
http://home.skysports.com/transferarticle.aspx?hlid=408431

204

Football / Championship league

« on: August 05, 2006, 01:29:20 PM »

Who do you will qualify for the EPL next season?,i got to go with Coventry city,Birmingham city and Norwich.

205

Football / Burley rejects Jones exit talk.

« on: July 25, 2006, 04:55:33 AM »

Burley plays down Jones reports.
By: Skysports News.[/size]

Southampton boss George Burley has dismissed speculation linking striker Kenwyne Jones with a move to Championship rivals Barnsley. The Trinidad & Tobago youngster looks to be facing a tough task to earn regular first-team football at St Mary's this season with Bradley Wright-Phillips, Grzegorz Rasiak, Ricardo Fuller, Dexter Blackstock, Leon Best and David McGoldrick all vying for two spots. But Burley is keen to give everyone at the club a chance over pre-season and said: "You always get speculation in newspapers but this is the first I've heard of it."

206

Football / Dragons trialists set for chance.

« on: July 19, 2006, 05:39:03 AM »

Dragons trialists set for chance.
By: Andrew Scurr.[/size]
 
Wrexham manager Denis Smith will take a closer look at two players currently on trial at the club during their friendly against Manchester City on Wednesday. Striker Blair Sturrock and Trinidadian Josh Johnson will both be under scrutiny during the game with the Premiership outfit at The Racecourse Ground. Sturrock, son of Sheffield Wednesday manager Paul, linked up with the squad on Tuesday after becoming a free agent following his release by Rochdale at the end of last season.
The 25-year-old scored an impressive six goals in just 15 starts last term but did not do enough to win a new deal at Spotland. He is now hoping for a fresh start with The Dragons and will be out to impress against Stuart Pearce's men, along with 24-year-old Johnson who is midway through his 10-day trial in North Wales.
"We take a look at a number of players during pre-season, so this is a useful opportunity to look at Blair in a match situation as compared to training," Smith told the club's official website. "Josh Johnson joined in on Saturday and will also feature again today."

207

Football / Latapy playing on

« on: July 13, 2006, 05:31:30 AM »

Latapy playing on.
By Simon Fudge.

Falkirk midfielder Russell Latapy says he will play on for one more season, but will not halt his lavish lifestyle in the process.

The 37-year-old looked set to hang up his boots this summer after appearing for Trinidad & Tobago in the World Cup finals in Germany.

The veteran believes his body can hold up for another campaign in the Scottish Premier League, as Latapy enters his fourth season with The Bairns.

The ageing Caribbean star is aiming to move into coaching after he retires, but insists his lifestyle will not affect him on the pitch this term.

"I can still play and contribute, but my body is going to decide and right now I feel in decent shape," Latapy told the Daily Record.

"Maybe I'll play more at the start of the season when the nicer surfaces suit me better. But I definitely want to concentrate more on coaching.

"People talk about what I do off the field, but I've lived this way all my life.

"I'll be 38 next month and I'm probably still going to play, so I don't think my smoking and drinking is really a problem."

Latapy has had a distinguished club career, having spent time in Portugal with Porto and Boavista before spells in Scotland with Hibernian, Rangers and Dundee United.

208

Football / Lawrence focused on Wrexham

« on: July 10, 2006, 01:49:58 PM »

Lawrence focused on Wrexham
By Alex Livie -  Created on 9 Jul 2006
WORLD CUP GLORY
Select your team and play World Cup Glory. 3 mins each way to make your mark!

Trinidad & Tobago star Dennis Lawrence says he is fully focused on starting the new season with Wrexham.

The powerful defender enjoyed a taste of the big time when producing three solid displays for his country at the World Cup.

Lawrence has revealed that his efforts caught the eye of interested parties, but he is not looking to engineer a move away from League Two side Wrexham.

"I am looking forward to going back to my club," Lawrence told Sky Sports News.

"I have spoken to my agent in the last week or so and there have been questions and enquiries, but I am a Wrexham player and I am happy to be there and I am not looking forward to going anywhere.

"I am looking forward to Monday and starting training with my team-mates."

Reflecting on his efforts in Germany, where he produced three good performances against Sweden, England and Paraguay, Lawrence said: "I did enjoy the World Cup.

"It was a fantastic experience and one that will live with me for the rest of my life."

209

Football / NFL players vs FOOTBALL players

« on: July 07, 2006, 10:56:24 PM »

I had an argument today with ah group fellars on which players in their respective sport makes more money.Who do you think makes more money,the NFL players or the FOOTBALL players?,i refuse to say soccer players and that's another argument by itself.

210

Football / like Real want all Man.U good players

« on: July 02, 2006, 04:17:25 AM »

Real hopeful eyes Rooney coup
By Tom Adams -  Created on 30 Jun 2006
WORLD CUP GLORY
Select your team and play World Cup Glory. 3 mins each way to make your mark!

Real Madrid presidential candidate Arturo Baldasano says the Spanish club could mount a bid for Manchester United star Wayne Rooney if he triumphs in the upcoming election.

Baldasano claims to have an agreement with Sven Goran Eriksson that will see the Swede take the Bernabeu hot-seat following the World Cup finals, and will be hoping that the England boss's relationship with the young striker could prove beneficial to the club.

With wild speculation surrounding all of the candidates for Sunday's elections any declarations can be taken with a pinch of salt, but Baldasano says he has already discussed Rooney with his prospective director of football Vicente del Bosque.

The Manchester United star is a key player at Old Trafford it is almost unthinkable that The Red Devils would consider any offer made for a player who is considered one of the best young talents in world football.

However Baldasano says he will do all he can to snare the United star, if given the green light by his managerial setup should he win the Real elections.

"I will do all I can to sign the players my management team want," Baldasano told The Sun.

"I have discussed Rooney with Del Bosque.

"Rooney is an extraordinary player who gives his all and is one of the most dangerous strikers there is.

"If my technical staff tell me he must sign for us then I will negotiate with United and if we can agree a deal Rooney will play for Real."

Baldasano also reiterated his claim that Eriksson has agreed to join him as manager pending the results of the elections.

"On July 2 we will see who is in the semi-finals and I don't mind waiting until after the final for Eriksson to join us," Baldasano added.

"If he comes to us as a world champion the fans would be delighted.

"Eriksson is totally focused on the World Cup and we have to respect his work.

"When the tournament is over Eriksson will be free.

"We have an agreement that if I'm president then he will join Real, now we have to let him do his work."
http://home.skysports.com/transfernews.asp?type=article&id=399500