The Weekend Round-up

by Danny Wright

Arsenal lead the way this week after they defeated West Ham at the Boleyn Ground, Robin van Persie’s header proving enough to give the superb Gunners a 1-0 win. Freddie Ljungberg thought he had equalized, but his strike was wrongfully ruled offside.

Manchester United trail Wenger’s men by two points despite a 1-0 win at Birmingham. Cristiano Ronaldo hit the decisive goal just after half time, with United seeing off a spirited Birmingham fight back as Van der Saar saved well from Cameron Jerome and Rio Ferdinand cleared off the line. United will be without Van der Saar for their Champions League game with Roma on Tuesday, the Dutchman limping off at half-time with a foot injury.

Portsmouth and Reading played out an incredible game at Fratton Park, sharing eleven goals as the hosts ran out 7-4 winners, keepers Marcus Hahnemann and David James suffering from chronic back-ache yesterday morning. Benjani scored the first of his three after just seven minutes, with the Pompey hit-man doubling the lead with a fine strike. Reading pulled things level thanks to Stephen Hunt and an error from James that allowed Dave Kitson to score. The Royals soon fell behind again as Hahnemann flapped at a cross to allow Herman Hreidarsson to score, disappointing from the American having made a wonder-save moments earlier. James atoned for his earlier error by saving Nicky Shorey’s penalty, meanwhile Benjani completed his hat-trick as and Niko Kranjcar added another to make it five. Reading responded through Shane Long and Shorey, but Sean Davis’ beautifully deflected strike and a Muntari penalty complete the win. The game set a new Premiership record for the most aggregate goals scored in a single match.

Chelsea were frustrated by Fulham at Stamford Bridge, firing blanks in an entertaining 0-0. The hosts lost captain John Terry with a fractured cheekbone early on following a clash with Clint Dempsey, the news coming as a blow to the England set-up with crunch Euro 2008 qualifiers just around the corner. Things went from bad to worse as Didier Drogba was stupidly sent-off, as Fulham stopper Kasey Keller earned his side a point with a fine display. The pressure builds on Avram Grant as Chelsea now lie a lowly 8th place in the table.

Yossi Benayoun earned his Liverpool side a 1-0 win, Wigan on the receiving end of the Israeli’s wonderful individual goal, as Merseyside neighbours Everton climbed up to fifth with a 2-0 win over Middlesborough at Goodison. Mark Schwarzer made a mess of a corner as Joleon Lescott headed in and Steven Pienaar completed the win for David Moyes’ men. Tim Howard marked his return to the side with the Toffee’s first clean sheet of the season.

Strugglers Derby and Bolton played out a 1-1 draw at Pride Park, with fellow strugglers Sunderland stuttering at home to Blackburn, going down 2-1 at the Stadium of Light. Sunderland should have had a first half penalty after Brad Friedel felled Michael Chopra, but lackadaisical defending cost the Black Cats dear as David Bentley and Roque Santa Cruz fired home two in two minutes. Grant Leadbitter’s strike came too late in the day to save Roy Keane’s side.

Manchester City maintained their good start to the season with a 3-1 over Newcastle at Eastlands. Obefami Martins put Newcastle after twenty minutes with a delicate lob, but Sven’s men hit back through Martin Petrov and Emile Mpenza with Brazilian Elano putting daylight between the sides as he smashed home a superb free-kick.

images - bbc.co.uk/sport

The Mid-week Review

by Danny Wright

The Carling Cup was the focus of this week’s football, as teams from across the land battled it out for a place in the fourth round. Fernando Torres was recalled to the Liverpool side for their 4-2 win over Reading, and the Spaniard didn’t disappoint as he chipped in with a fine hat-trick to help the Reds on their way. Yossi Benayoun put Liverpool ahead but Bobby Convey and John Halls hit back for the hosts, however they were undone by the magic of Torres to send Liverpool through.

A youthful Arsenal side dumped Newcastle out of the Carling Cup, as late strikes from Nicklas Bendtner and Denilson sealed the win. Recalled keeper Shay Given kept the score down with a string of fine saves to deny a buoyant Arsenal side.

A much changed Manchester City side avoided a cup upset as they defeated Norwich 1-0 at Eastlands. Out-of-favour striker Georgios Samaras scored in the last minute to send his side through as plucky Norwich return to Championship formalities on Saturday.

Portsmouth were assigned a tricky task as they took on Championship outfit Burnley at Turf Moor. David Nugent’s goal proved enough for Harry Redknapp’s men, however Steve Cotterill’s men were left seething as a suspected handball from Nugent in the build up to the goal went unnoticed by the officials. The Clarets pushed hard for an equaliser but couldn’t find a way through the Pompey defence.

Morecambe’s giant-killing heroics were ended by a ruthless Sheffield United at Bramall Lane. Having beaten Championship sides Wolves and Preston in the previous two rounds you could forgive United for feeling a little uneasy, however they showed no nerves in despatching The Shrimps with ease, as braces from Billy Sharp and Luton Shelton paved the way for the win.

Hull welcomed Chelsea and under-pressure manager Avram Grant to the KC Stadium with a spectacular fire-works display, but it couldn’t spark the home side into life as they were easily beaten 4-0 by the former champions. The impressive Scott Sinclair opening the scoring after the 37th minute, with Salomon Kalou grabbing a double and Steve Sidwell’s fine strike completing the rout. Hull battled hard but never troubled a solid Chelsea backline.

Coventry sprung the upset of the round as they dumped a changed Manchester United side out with an excellent 2-0 win at Old Trafford. Michael Mifsud had a night to remember as his double sealed the win, sending 11000 travelling fans into delirium.

Championship side Leicester also upset Premiership, this time Aston Villa feeling the pinch as they were beaten 1-0, Matt Fryatt scoring the decisive goal. Bolton lifted the gloom as they beat Fulham after extra time, Stelios with the winning goal. Everton avoided an upset against Championship opposition, Sheffield Wednesday comprehensively beaten 3-0 thanks to James McFadden’s double and Yakubu’s late strike. Keeper Stefan Wessels suffered a nasty head injury early in the game, but soldiered on to keep a deserved clean sheet.

Not so fortunate was Birmingham’s Richard Kingston, who had to be taken to hospital with a head injury after colliding with the post and Rovers’ Chris Samba. Things didn’t get much better for the visitors as David Bentley’s great strike found the top corner, with Matt Derbyshire adding a penalty and Roque Santa Cruz’s diving header completing the win.

Tom Huddlestone and baby-face assassin Gareth Bale lifted the pressure off manager Martin Jol as they beat Middlesbrough 2-0 at White Hart Lane; meanwhile West Ham felled Plymouth thanks to Dean Aston’s strike.

Luton also booked their place in the next round as they beat Charlton 3-1 after extra time. Dean Sinclair opened the scoring for the Addicks, but Steve Robinson brought the Hatters level as Matthew Spring and Drew Talbot scored in extra time to dump Alan Pardew’s side out. Blackpool also go through to the next stage, beating Southend 2-1 in added time, as Cardiff dumped out West Brom 4-2 at Hawthorns.

The Weekend Round-up

by Danny Wright

Middlesborough and Sunderland clashed in an entertaining Tees-Wear derby at the Riverside. In a hard fought affair, Grant Leadbitter opened the scoring for the Black Cats after 75 seconds but former Sunderland man Julio Arca hit back for Boro to level things up, the Argentineans’ subdued celebration a mark of respect to his former employers. Both sides had strong penalty appeals turned down before Stuart Downing unleashed a 25-yard peach, but his spectacular effort was outdone by Liam Miller’s last-gasp 20-yard volley which left Mark Schwarzer with no chance. Leadbitter and Boro’s Lee Cattermole clashed - the pair lucky to remain on the pitch after an ugly scuffle as they game ended in a 2-2 draw.

Derby were crushed by an imperious Arsenal side at the Emirates, the Gunners putting home no fewer than five goals to Derby’s zero as Emmanuel Adebayor ran riot with a hat-trick. Abou Diaby hammered home the opener with a thunderous drive, meanwhile the awesome Cesc Fabregas chipped in with a goal, but it was Adebayor who stole the show as his side hit the top of the league. Arsenal look like surprising title challengers, with sorry Derby looking like unsurprising whipping boys, rest assured it will be a long campaign for Rams supporters.

Avram Grant’s reign as Chelsea boss got off to a losing start at rivals Manchester United, the Blues falling 2-0 at Old Trafford. Carlos Tevez fired United head on 45 minutes as Jon Obi Mikel contrived to get himself sent off for a lunge on Patrice Evra. Louis Saha sealed the win late on with a penalty after he was fouled by Tal Ben Haim, the defeat leaving Chelsea five points off the pace in sixth. Who needs Mourinho, eh?

It was a case of ‘Same Old Rafa, always tinkering’ at Anfield as Liverpool stuttered to a 0-0 draw against battling Birmingham, the Spaniard tactical genius leaving out hit-man Fernando Torres as the Reds fired blanks against an outstanding Blues defence, marshalled by the impressive Liam Ridgewell. Merseyside rivals Everton capped off a miserable week as they were defeated 2-0 by Aston Villa, goals from John Carew and strike partner Gabriel Agbonlahor doing the damage.

Strugglers Bolton and Tottenham couldn’t lift themselves as they cancelled each other out in a 1-1 draw at the Reebok. Both sides were in European action in mid-week but desperately required Premiership solace but neither could take control in a nervy affair; Jussi Jaaskelainen provided the only moments of quality as he kept Tottenham out, with Ivan Campo and Robbie Keane grabbing the goals.

Portsmouth ended their away day hoodoo as they felled Blackburn 1-0 at Ewood, Kanu scoring the all important goal meanwhile Newcastle were indebted to Mark Viduka’s brace as he helped the Magpies beat West Ham 3-1, Charles N’Zogbia sealing the win as Dean Ashton got on the score sheet for the Hammers.

Man City and Fulham shared six goals in a thrilling encounter at Craven Cottage. Simon Davies put the hosts ahead only for Martin Petrov to level. Hameur Bouazza smashed home a free-kick to put his side ahead, but again City hit back through Emile Mpenza and then took the lead as Petrov scored again to make it 3-2, only for Danny Murphy to come off the bench and level things to earn Fulham a point.

Reading lifted their woes as they beat Wigan at the Madejski. The hosts could have won the game by half time but were wasteful in front of goal, despite strikes from Dave Kitson and James Harper giving them the advantage. Marcus Bent gave the Royals a scare with a headed equaliser, but it wasn’t enough for Chris Hutchins men.

Kasper Schmeichel’s fine start to the season has been rewarded with a new deal at Manchester City, Sven Goran Eriksson rewarding the youngster with a four-year contract. Injuries to Andreas Isaksson and Joe Hart gave Schmeichel his berth, and he has not missed a game under the management of Old Blue Eyes.

Another keeper making a good start to the season is Craig Gordon, who has won praise from manager Roy Keane. The Sunderland record buy moved to Wearside from Hearts for a £9m fee and Keane has cited Gordon as a potential folk hero, telling the Daily Mirror: "Craig can become a real hero at Sunderland. He has certainly endeared himself to the fans with the start he has made here,”

“Our fans throughout the years have always loved a striker or a goalscorer and hopefully that will never change. But you can love keepers as well as strikers.” Keane added.

images - bbc.co.uk/sport

The Mid-week Review

by Danny Wright

Derby and Newcastle kicked off a busy week of mid-week football on Monday night as the Rams lifted themselves off the foot of the table with a 1-0 win at Pride Park. Kenny Miller marked his debut with the winning goal as the visitors were denied two stonewall penalties by referee Peter Walton. The win lifts Derby to the heady heights of 19th, Sammy Lee’s beleaguered Bolton propping up the rest of the pack.

The Champions League group stages kicked off on Tuesday, but it wasn’t the rosy start the British clubs had hoped for. Chelsea were held to a frustrating 1-1 by Norwegian side Rosenborg at Stamford Bridge. The visitors took a shock lead when Miika Koppinen turned in a free-kick; however under-fire Andriy Shevchenko leveled things up with a header eight minutes into the second-half. Salmon Kalou hit a post late on, but a paltry 24,973 crowed witnessed little other action in a poor game.

Liverpool were the pick of the bunch in the Tuesday games as they picked up a useful point at Porto. The Reds went behind when Pepe Reina clumsily felled an onrushing Porto striker with Lucho Gonzalez tucking away the spot-kick. Dirk Kuyt equalized with a bullet close range header however the night ended on a sour note as Jermaine Pennant saw red for picking up a second yellow card.

Shakhtar Donetsk defeated Scottish hopefuls Celtic 2-0 in Ukraine with two early goals as the Bhoys crumbled to defeat, but SPL rivals Rangers faired much better as they came from a goal down to beat VfB Stuttgart 2-1 at Ibrox, Charlie Adam and Jean Claude Darcheville the heroes in Glasgow.

Cristiano Ronaldo scored on the return to his old club as Manchester United opened their Champions League campaign with a 1-0 over Sporting Lisbon. The wing wizard converted Wes Brown’s low cross on the hour to give United the win after receiving a warm reception by the home faithful. United had keeper Edwin van der Saar to thank for his part in the win, as he foiled Liedson and Tonel with splendid saves.

Arsenal cruised to victory over Seville at the Emirates with an impressive 3-0 win. Julien Escude deflected Cesc Fabregas’ effort into the net to get things rolling after twenty minutes; meanwhile Robin van Persie and Eduardo completed the rout to give Arsene Wenger’s men a dream start to their group campaign. Jens Lehmann will be pleased to hear current number one Manuel Almunia kept a deserved clean sheet.

In the Championship, Hull picked up an impressive win as they beat Wolves 1-0 at Molineux – veteran striker Dean Windass notching the winner. Burnley piled the misery on Sheffield Wednesday, winning 2-0 at Hillsborough to leave the Owls bottom with no wins and no points after six matches. Darius Henderson’s brace put Watford top of the pile as they beat Cardiff 2-1 at Ninian Park. Blackpool’s Paul Rachubka had a night to forget as his howler handed Sheffield United a point at Bloomfield Road, the Tangerines leading just two minutes earlier thanks to Ben Burgess’ effort before the former Huddersfield man let James Beattie’s speculative effort creep in.

Nottingham Forest and Leicester replayed their abandoned Carling Cup tie, with Forest gifted a ‘free goal’ following the previous ties 1-0 lead Forest possessed before Leicester’s Clive Clarke collapsed with heart failure that resulted in the cancellation. Keeper Paul Smith tucked away the goal after 23 seconds, but it didn’t prove enough as Leicester went onto win 3-2 at the second attempt. The result does however seem unimportant regarding the near-fatal events of the previous tie, the sporting gesture putting the significance of football into perspective.

images - bbc.co.uk/sport

The Weekend Round-up

by Danny Wright

Debutant goalkeeper Stefan Wessels couldn’t prevent Everton losing to Manchester United 1-0 at Goodison on Saturday, the German largely untroubled until Nemanja Vidic thumped home a header late in the day to end the tight affair. Earlier Andy Johnson had an effort cleared off the line but the Toffees couldn’t break through the stellar United backline. United face Seville in the Champions League on Wednesday, and will receive a stern test against the European dark-horses.

Chelsea endured a frustrating time at home to Blackburn, drawing 0-0 in a dull affair. Salomon Kalou thought he had won it for Jose Mourinho’s men, however his effort was somehow ruled out for offside by the dimwitted officials. The Special One showed his frustration by opting to trash the pitch-side television equipment, whilst Brad Friedel saved Rover’s bacon with some excellent saves. Rafa Benetiz’s tinkering seemingly cost Liverpool as they also drew at home, this time to Harry Redknapp’s Portsmouth in another 0-0 affair.

Arsenal top the pile after a superb 3-1 win over bitter rivals Tottenham. Baby-faced free kick assassin Gareth Bale put the hosts ahead, however it wasn’t enough as the imperious Emmanuel Adebayor notched a header and a stunning second to set the Gunners on their way, with Cesc Fabregas adding another with a wonder strike.

Sunderland’s Kenwyne Jones inspired his new side to victory over Reading at the Stadium of Light as the hosts remembered FA Cup legend Ian Porterfield, who died on Tuesday. Jones drew first blood with a lovely turn and shot, and then he set up Ross Wallace for what proved to be the winner as the visitors seldom threatened the Black Cat’s goal. They did however pull one back late on, Dave Kitson the scorer. Royals boss Steve Coppell no doubt gave his men the roasting of a life time back in the dressing room.

Elsewhere, Manchester City stalwart Michael Johnson inspired Sven’s men to a 1-0 win over Aston Villa, his neat one-two and burst from midfield rightfully rewarded with a fine goal to lift the Eastlands side to second in the table. Villa dominated after the goal, but couldn’t find a way past Micah Richards and co. West Ham beat Middlesborough 3-0 in an entertaining game at the Boleyn Ground, talisman Dean Ashton marking his return to the side with a goal.

Jason Koumas saved his Wigan side with a late penalty to earn a point against Fulham; on-song Clint Demspey put the Cottagers ahead after eleven minutes, but the game petered out to a 1-1 draw. There was bad news for Emile Heskey who will be out for six weeks following a suspected metatarsal break, the rejuvenated England man limping off after only two minutes to leave the Latics looking legless.

Down at the bottom, Olivier Kapo's strike piled the misery on sorry Sammy Lee as Birmingham beat Bolton 1-0 at St Andrews, with bottom side Derby taking on Newcastle tonight, the Rams no doubt looking for a first win of the season.

In other news, League Two Stockport have eased their goalkeeper crisis by bringing in Blackburn youngster Zac Jones on loan. Manager Jim Gannon had been without a stopper since Chris Adamson broke his finger during training and swooped for the 19-year-old Rovers man. Leeds United overhauled their 15 point penalty deduction with a 3-0 win over Bristol Rovers at the weekend, the Elland Road club now off the bottom of the League One table.

images -bbc.co.uk

Goalkeeper Briefs

Today's goalkeeper news in brief by Danny Wright...


Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger says he unsure who will be the Gunners number 1 keeper. When asked who was his first choice, he told Sky Sports News: "We will see, it is down to them." Jens Lehmann started the season as first choice, but costly errors and an Achilles injury meant Manuel Almunia was given a first-team berth. Since Almunia's promotion there was been a word of words between the two, the Spaniard claiming he deserves to first choice at the Emirates, however Lehmann hit back rebuking his rival's claims.


Liverpool goalkeeper Jose Reina believes the Premiership title could be heading to Anfield for the first time in 18-years. The Reds' first choice told the Daily Mirror: "There's a long way to go but we believe we can do it. We are top of the table and deserve to be there because you can no longer say that Manchester United, Chelsea or Arsenal are superior to us." Reina also singled out star-striker Fernando Torres for praise, saying: "Fernando Torres will be the biggest star of English football."


And finally, Manchester City's Kasper Schmeichel believes his time on loan at Falkirk has helped him to become a better goalkeeper. He told Sky Sports News: "It was a great experience, playing in the SPL is very hard. It's a very physical league and very quick as well." Schmeichel has made an impressive start to the season, and will look to keep Andreas Isaksson out of the side.

Schwarzer Snubs 'Boro

by Danny Wright

Middlesbrough have offered goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer a one-year contract which has been promptly rejected by the Australian.

Schwarzer is out of contract next summer and the 34-year-old had hoped to earn a two-year deal in an attempt to pledge his future to the Riverside club.

However, Boro were unwilling to meet Schwarzer's demands and the snub will fuel inevitable transfer speculation about the high-rated stopper, who has spent ten years on Teesside.

Manager Gareth Southgate sympathised with Schwarzer, telling Sky Sports News:

"He wants to play through to the next World Cup (in 2010), so his concern is that if he signs a one-year extension and finds himself out of contract in the summer before the next tournament, it could affect his chances of being involved,"

"I can totally understand where he's coming from and, as a manager, it's something I'm going to have to think about," he added.

"Can I offer him that extra year that he wants? He's a fit lad but, when you're at the age that he is, none of us have a crystal ball to know how long players can go on for."

The news comes as a blow to Boro fans, who will no doubt be saddened by the news that their inspirational keeper could be on his way out next summer.

Schwarzer had been linked with a move to Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich earlier in the year following the departure of talisman Mark Viduka.

images - precisionfootball.com

The Mid-week Review

by Danny Wright

England won their crunch game with Russia, taking maximum points in a 3-0 win at Wembley. Michael Owen was the star of the show as his stunning brace set up the win, his first a cool finish from all of 6 yards and his second a stunning volley set up by the brilliant Emile Heskey; don’t adjust your screens –you read it right– the brilliant Emile Heskey, whose industrious display is worthy of praise from all quarters.

Rio Ferdinand’s strike sealed the win late on, his weak effort creeping past a suspect looking Russian keeper. His counterpart Paul Robinson looked more assured at the other end, the Tottenham keeper fending off the critics for the time being.

England fully deserved their win and looked like a good footballing side, a change which is definitely refreshing to see. Steve McClaren’s men now go second in Group E, trailing leaders Croatia by three points who thumped sorry Andorra 6-0 tonight. England take on Estonia and Russia next month as they look to complete their qualifying quest.

Scotland produced an outstanding display to beat France 1-0 in Paris; the Tartan Army doing a qualifying double over their rivals to top Group B. James McFadden’s second goal in as many games earned m the Scots the win, his long range effort leaving Mickael Landreau stranded and sending the away support into raptures. Scotland are in an excellent position to qualify for the championships next summer, their fate well and truly in their own hands.

There was no such joy for a beleaguered Republic of Ireland side, who were beaten 1-0 by the Czech Republic in Prague to effectively end their qualification hopes. To add insult to injury Stephen Hunt was harshly sent off, although his introduction stirred the Irish. Marek Jankulovski’s strike proved to be the winner, as Paul McShane went closest for the Republic.

Northern Ireland were to feel similar heartbreak as Keith Gillespie’s own goal gifted Iceland the winner in a 2-1 defeat in treacherous conditions in Reykjavik. The hosts took the lead on six minutes thanks Armann Smari Bjornnson’s effort, however Ireland hit back and scored a deserved equalizer when the prolific David Healy slotted home from the penalty spot. The visitors looked to be holding out for a vital point until Gillespie turned agonizingly into his own net, leaving his side three points behind leaders Sweden who have played a game less.

On a more positive note, Wales turned things around with a 5-2 win over Slovakia in an entertaining game in Trnava. Freddy Eastwood’s second international goal put Wales on their way, as Craig Bellamy brace, an own goal and a Simon Davies strike cancelled out Marek Mintal’s double. Wayne Hennessey continued his fine form for his country, his display reflective of the Wales’ solid defensive display.
In other news, Aston Villa goalkeeper Thomas Sorensen has denied he is looking for a move away from Villa Park. On-loan Scott Carson is Martin O’Neil’s current number one, however the 31-year-old slammed reports linking him away, telling the BBC: “I've said all along to everyone at Aston Villa that I'm here to fight for my place. But I'm not looking to leave the club to do that. That has never been my intention”

Elsewhere, goalkeeper David Lucas has signed for League One Leeds on a short-term deal, and Republic of Ireland striker Robbie Keane claimed that Shay Given is the best goalkeeper in the world – and that Czech counterpart Peter Cech is not. He told Sky Sports News: “Cech is one of the best goalkeepers in the world, but we are quite lucky in that we have the best in Shay Given” Keane didn’t do his claim much good as Cech kept a clean sheet his side’s 1-0 over the Irish on Wednesday night.

images - bbc.co.uk & great-save.com

Lehmann Lashes Out At Rival

by Danny Wright

Eccentric Arsenal goalkeeper Jens Lehmann has lashed out at rival Manuel Almunia, saying the Spaniard doesn't deserve to be the club's number one.

Lehmann started the season as first choice at the Emirates, but has since been replaced by Almunia for a series of costly errors in the Gunners Premiership games against Fulham and Blackburn respectively.

Manager Arsene Wenger says Lehmann has not been available due to an Achilles injury; however the 37-year-old played in Germany's 2-0 win over Wales at the weekend and should now be in the reckoning to face Tottenham on Saturday.

Wenger told the German he cannot expect to walk straight back into the side, however this hasn't knocked the confidence of Lehmann who believes he will reclaim his place in due course.

"I know I will be playing again at Arsenal. The coach will let me play," Lehmann told The People.

"He knows it, and I know it - it doesn't matter if I have another week out."

"I have read that Almunia said he deserves to be the No 1 but until now he has not won a single important game."

Almunia has kept two clean sheets in as many games since his promotion to the Arsenal side and will renew hostilities with Lehmann when he returns from international duty at the end of the week.

image - http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

Howard Injury Doubt

by Danny Wright

Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard is an injury doubt for Saturday's home game with Manchester United after he dislocated a finger on international duty.

Howard picked up the injury on Sunday playing in the USA's 4-2 defeat to Brazil in Chicago, but still continued to play and complete the full 90 minutes.

He told evertonfc.com ""It was pretty sore. I just tried to play through it, and hoped that the adrenaline would get me through it."

The 28-year-old will now be assessed by the club's doctors to see if he will be fit to face his former club, with new-signing Stefan Wessels and youngsters Iain Turner and John Ruddy on hand to deputize should Howard not be available for the clash.

"You know to be honest, you know how it is when you travel with injuries right now, it's swollen like a balloon, and I'm hoping that the flight doesn't take too much out of it. I'll see the doctors when I get back."

image -http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

The Weekend Round-up

by Danny Wright

England gave their Euro 2008 qualifying chances a much needed boost as they beat Israel 3-0 at Wembley. Joe Cole’s fine cross set up Shaun Wright-Phillips for the opener as England went on to dominate, with Michael Owen’s superb strike putting the hosts two ahead following some good link play between the reinvigorated Emile Heskey and Gareth Barry.

The awesome Micah Richards sealed the win with a thumping header from a late corner, as under-fire keeper Paul Robinson dealt admirably with the little action thrown his away throughout the 90 minutes. England now trail second-placed Russia by one point, needing to beat Gus Hiddink’s men if they are to have any chance of making it to Austria and Switzerland next June.

Scotland are in with a good shout of making the finals as they felled Lithuania 3-1 at Hampden in an entertaining game. Kris Boyd put the Scots ahead with a glancing header, but the Tartan Army didn’t have it all their own way as the visitors cheated their way back into things as Saulius Mikoliunas dive from Darren Flecther’s challenge earned them a penalty, which was promptly tucked away by Tomas Danilevicus. Stephen McManus converted Shaun Maloney’s delivery to restore parity, and Everton’s James McFadden sealed the win with a 25-yard wonder strike.

Wales were outclassed by Germany as their fading hopes of qualification were ended by a 2-0 defeat in Cardiff. Miroslav Klose’s brace on five and 60 minutes silenced the home side’s unimagineative attempts on the German goal, as the visitors held out for the win to virtually guarantee their tickets for the finals.

The Republic of Ireland’s attempts were given a similarly frustrating blow as they were held 2-2 by Slovakia in Bratislava. Stephen Ireland gave Eire a dream start on 7 minutes when he fired home, however the Irish were held as Maros Klimpl fought back with a goal for the Slovaks. Kevin Doyle thought he had given his side the win after his turn and shot, but their Group D counterparts hit an injury time leveller to stifle any remaining hope of qualification. Ireland must now beat Czech Republic on Wednesday if they are to be in with a look-in.

Northern Ireland endured a similarly tough time as Chris Baird’s own goal against Latvia lead to a 1-0 defeat in Riga and dealt their qualification chances a massive blow. Keith Gillespie and David Healy had chances to win the game against the Group F strugglers, but it was Baird’s gaffe that decided it. Nigel Worthington’s side must now beat Iceland on Wednesday to keep their hopes alive.

Back on the domestic scene Leeds won their fifth successive game to reduce their 15 point penalty deduction to zero as they beat Hartlepool 2-0 in front of a packed Elland Road, meanwhile there were wins for Leyton Orient, Tranmere and Crewe as struggling Gillingham parted company with manager Ronnie Jepson.

In League Two, Accrington Stanley put their financial woes aside as they thumped Grimsby 4-1 as Bradford, Wycombe and Peterborough all picked up wins.

images - bbc.co.uk

The Mid-week Review

The Mid-week Review

The Johnston’s Paint Trophy got underway in earnest this week as sides from League One and Two battled it out for the right to play at Wembley and to win some silverware.

Last seasons winners Doncaster took a step closer to defending their crown as they thumped Bradford 5-1 at the Keepmoat, meanwhile League One giants Nottingham Forest were dumped out by Peterborough 3-2 in a thrilling match at the City Ground, Posh twice coming from behind to fell the former European Champions.

There was to be another shock at Blundell Park where League Two Grimsby beat superiors Huddersfield 4-1 in front of a paltry 1204 crowd. Dagenham and Redbridge upset Southend despite the game being tied at 2-2 after extra time, the Daggers going through 7-6 on penalties. Chester City also triumphed from the spot-kick as they provided another upset by beating Crewe, 1-1 after extra time and 4-3 from the spot kicks.

League new-boys Morecambe just love the cups - their giant killing exploits getting the better of Tranmere as they felled the League One side 1-0 at Prenton Park. The Shrimps have already beaten Championship sides Wolves and Preston in the Carling Cup, and the good times keep rolling at Christie Park as it was announced defender Jim Bentley is the League Two Player of the Month for August.

Elsewhere, Swindon beat Brentford 4-1 as Swansea defeated Millwall 3-2 in another entertaining firs round clash, with Yeovil, Rotherham, Luton and Bournemouth all finding safe routes through with respect wins. Hartlepool beat Chesterfield 3-1 at Salter Gate.

It was a game of two halves at the Crown Ground as Accrington Stanley capitulated to defeat against Oldham. Goals from Roscoe D'Sane and Andy Procter put the home side in ahead at the break, however the tie was turned on its head as Andy Liddell and Craig Davies leveled things up and Matt Wolfenden struck a late winner to send the Latics through.

There was no other mid-week action of note, however the startling news emerged that on Saturday 6th October only one Premier League match will kick off at the usual 3pm time with eight games taking place on the Sunday. The shocking story comes to the disgruntlement of many supporters, as it seems evident our game is well and truly revolving around the bucket loads of cash exchanged between the top bosses without consideration for the poor supporters, who pay for the very existence of the game in the first place.

To end on a similarly frustrating note, former referee Graham Poll revealed how Fifa bosses targeted England striker Peter Crouch in last years World Cup - warning its officials they should “look out” for the 6 foot 7 inch target man. Sources say Crouch's dodgy dancing was Fifa's motivation for the clamp down on the gangly Liverpool man.

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Given Ponders Future

by Danny Wright

Newcastle goalkeeper Shay Given is looking to sort out his future at the club once he returns from international duty.

Given is currently away with the Republic of Ireland squad for Euro 2008 qualifiers against Slovakia and Czech Republic, but is eager to talk with manager Sam Allardyce about his future prospects.

"I'll have a chat with him (Allardyce). I'm not sure what his thinking is or whatever," Given told Sky Sports.

"I've gone away with Ireland so I haven't had time to sit down with him, so I'll have to do that when I get back after these games.”

The 31-year-old has spent time on the sidelines suffering from a groin injury, something which Given believes has hindered his chances on Tyneside.

"Obviously I've been out for a while with my groin and I played on Wednesday night (in the Carling Cup), so maybe he felt that it was better for me not to play on Saturday and put too much pressure on it. " he added.

Should Given play on Saturday against Slovakia he will become Ireland's most capped player with 80 appearances, breaking the record previously held by fellow stopper Packie Bonner.

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Carroll Withdraws From NI Squad

by Danny Wright

Roy Carroll has withdrawn from the Northern Ireland squad to face Latvia and Iceland in crunch Euro 2008 qualifiers.

The former Hull City and Wigan stopper - now at SPL giants Rangers - said he wants to focus on his club career and made the decision following talks with manager Nigel Worthington.

Carroll has never established himself as a firm first choice at any of his former clubs and looks for a new berth at the Scottish club, having spent relatively unsuccessful spells at Manchester United and West Ham respectively.

High profile errors at United signaled the end of his Old Trafford career, meanwhile limited opportunities at the Hammers ended his two-year spell at the London club.

Celtic's Michael McGovern will join Birmingham's Maik Taylor in the squad, with Carroll remaining on stand-by.

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Carson Plays Down England Chances

by Danny Wright

England goalkeeper Scott Carson has played down his chances of featuring in England's upcoming Euro 2008 qualifiers against Israel and Russia.

Carson is set to take a place on the bench as Paul Robinson and David James battle it out for the number one jersey, which became available after Robinson's blunder in the 2-1 friendly defeat to Germany.

Despite being in good form, the 22-year-old told Sky Sports News he has little chance of figuring in the must win matches on Saturday and Tuesday respectively:

"It should be good with England, but I think it will be mainly training for me."

"Ray Clemence (England's goalkeeping coach) has got more chance of starting a game than me at the moment.

"I've just got to train hard and push Paul Robinson and David James as hard as possible."

Carson is currently on loan at Aston Villa from Liverpool, and has kept two clean sheets in three games, one of which came against title chasers Chelsea in which Carson put in a good shift to shut out the former Champions.

Chelsea keeper Peter Cech also heralded the abilities of Carson, calling him a "great goalkeeper", praise which Carson is only happy to receive.

"It's good to get some praise off somebody like that because he's the best in the world. If I can be anywhere near as good as him then I'll be all right.”."

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The Weekend Round-up

by Danny Wright

Sorry Derby capitulated to a 6-0 thrashing at the hands of Liverpool on Saturday, the former propping up the table with the later topping it as a result. Braces from Fernando Torres and Xabi Alonso laid the foundations for the win, with Ryan Babel and Andrei Voronin completing the rout.

Arsenal follow close behind thanks to their 3-1 win over Portsmouth despite playing nearly half the game with ten-men, the oaf-footed Philippe Senderos seeing red for a clumsy tackle on Kanu. David James’ hopes of an England re-call weren’t helped as he conceded the penalty that lead to Arsenal’s first, however the big man was sold desperately short by his back four all afternoon. Kanu scored Pompey’s consolation, his effort an early contender for goal of the season.

Everton supporters will have bloody noses for another week – their 2-1 win over Bolton keeping them flying high in third – such heights somewhat uncharted terrority for the Toffees faithful.

A stunning overhead kick from Diomansy Kamara earned Fulham an unlikely point against Spurs at Craven Cottage; the visitors had lead 3-1 thanks to goals from Younes Kaboul, Dimitar Berbatov and Gareth Bale’s superb solo effort, however Martin Jol’s men contrived to cave in as Clint Dempsey and Alexey Smertin gave the hosts hope before Kamara produced his magic.

Sven’s honeymoon period at Man City looks to becoming to an abrupt end as they were beaten 1-0 by Blackburn, meanwhile Michael Owen scored the winner to give Newcastle the points against a dogged Wigan side. Middlesborough claimed their second win of the season as they beat Birmingham 2-0, David Wheater and Stuart Downing on target in a dour affair. Worryingly for Steve Bruce’s men they offered little going forward and weren’t much better at the back.

West Ham banished the ghosts of season-past as they beat Reading 3-0 at the Madejski, the corresponding result from the last campaign a 6-0 reversal. Craig Bellamy scored one and made another in the Hammers classy win, winger Matthew Etherington sealing it with a rasping effort. Keeper Rob Green saved a spot-kick to round off a good day for Alan Curbishley’s side.

Roy Keane was reunited with former manager Sir Alex Ferguson at Old Trafford as Manchester United edged out Sunderland 1-0. Craig Gordon’s error gave the hosts the win, his flap at fresh air allowing Louis Saha to glance home the winner. Keano was given a rapturous reception by the United faithful as prawn sandwiches were taken off the menu for the talisman’s much anticipated return.

Aston Villa felled Chelsea 2-0 in an entertaining game at Villa Park - Zat Knight’s debut goal and Gabby Agbonlahor’s late show enough to give Martin O’Neil’s men the win, his side not fooled by Chelsea’s blinding fluorescent strip.

In other news, England fans will have sleepless nights as it was announced Emile Heskey is to be recalled to the full England squad, a bold move from manager Steve McClaren that doesn’t reek of desperation in the slightest.

In-form Man City keeper Kasper Schmeichel is to be rewarded for his fine displays with a new three-year contract that will see his £1,500 wages trebled. The young Dane is currently one of the lowest paid players in the Premiership and has provided fine cover for the injured Andreas Isaksson, keeping three consecutive clean sheets and saving a penalty in last week’s defeat to Arsenal.