Boro Without Schwarzer for Royals Clash

by Danny Wright

Middlesborough will be without goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer for their away clash with Reading on Saturday.

The 35-year-old damaged his hand in training on Wednesday and is expected to miss the tie at the Madjeski Stadium.

With back-up keeper Brad Jones injured, Ross Turnbull is set to deputise.

The news comes as a blow to under-fire manager Gareth Southgate whose side currently languish a lowly 17th place in the Premiership.

"There is a fracture there, but we think it is probably nearer two to three weeks rather than the four to six weeks which was initially feared," Southgate told Sky Sports News.

image - http://en.wikipedia.org

A great new boot ideal for keepers

The all new Adidas, the Predator Predator Power Swerve XTRAX is now available in store at great-save.com.

The adidas Predator Power Swerve will be worn by Liverpool's Pepe Reina Chelsea's Petr Cech as well as other top keepers through-out the world.

The Predator priced at £129.99 and is the 9th predator design, the predator was introduced in 1994 and has been developed further with the help and support of Adidas's top football players and keepers, the predator has set it's self the highest standards in terms of design comfort and, above all functionality and this new updated style does not disappoint in any way.

New Features include: Smart Foam and the dynamic Power-Pulse system. New patented Smart Foam adapts and changes to suit the way you kick the ball. So you get maximum power, or shock absorption, depending on your needs. The 2.5mm Predator Smart Foam gives the player increased Power, Swerve and Control. The Predator Smart Foam in the new Predator PowerSwerve gives 3% more power compared to the previous model Predator Absolute and also gives 8% more spin. The Predator grain on the upper performs equally as well in the wet as in the dry. The Dynamic Power-Pulse system moves weight in the shoe to where you need it, behind the exact place of impact with the ball to get total power transfer, and gives better flexibility. The new exchangeable Powerpulse system, which increases flexibility and comfort has a transparent window for interchangable dynamic PowerPulse. There is also an interchangeable lightweight PowerPulse that is supplied with the boot.

If your looking for better goal kicks then look no further than this awesome new boot from Adidas.

Order your pair today @ www.great-save.com.

The Mid-week Review

by Danny Wright

Chelsea proceeded into the next phase of the Champions League with a comfortable 4-0 win over Danish outfit Rosenborg. Avram Grant’s men never really looked troubled as Didier Drogba lead the charge with two early goals and home keeper Lars Hirschfeld was left embarrassed by an Alex free-kick which somehow crept in, meanwhile Joe Cole completed the rout; the England winger following up Michael Essein’s blocked effort. Chelsea top the group with 11 points and can relax ahead of their tie with Valencia in a fortnight’s time.

Liverpool needed to win against Porto to keep their qualification hopes alive and they did just that with an emphatic 4-1 victory over the Portuguese side. The Reds, buoyed by a pre-match rally in support of under pressure manager Rafa Benetiz, struggled early on as Porto hit back following Fernando Torres’ early header, Lisandro Lopez the scorer. The home side piled forward in search of the decisive goal and Torres proved to be the hero on 78 minutes when he scored his second of the night to set Liverpool on their way, Steven Gerrard and Peter Crouch completing the win. Benetiz’s men now lie in third level points with Marseille in second and must win their remaining game against the French side to progress.

Arsenal – already qualified – went down to a disappointing 3-1 defeat at the hands of Sevilla and missed out on the chance of topping the group. Eduardo had put the Gunners ahead with a well taken goal, however the Spaniards hit back with some aplomb as Seydou Keita lashed one home with the outside of his foot, and Luis Fabiano nodded home to put Sevilla ahead. Frederic Kanoute tucked home a late penalty to seal the win as Arsenal face Steaua Bucharest in a dead rubber match in 11 days time.

Rangers went down to a disappointing defeat to VfB Stuttgart, 3-2 the final score in Germany. Charlie Adam had put the Scottish side ahead with a neat finish but Cacau levelled with a clever back heal. Pavel Pardo put Stuttgart in front only for captain Barry Ferguson to level, capitalising on some hap-hazard defending however it wasn’t going to be enough for Walter Smith’s men who lost out to Ciprian Marica’s late winner. The Scottish side still have a good chance of qualification despite the defeat, however they must avoid defeat against Lyon.

Celtic are also in great stead to qualify for the knockout stages, now only needing a point in Milan a week on Tuesday to progress. Gordon Strachan’s men defeated tricky Ukrainian outfit Shakhtar Donetsk 2-1 at Celtic Park to put themselves in the healthy position, the Glaswegian giants indebted to former Chelsea misfit Jiri Jarosik and Massimo Donati's goals having fallen behind to Brandao’s first-half strike. Should Celtic, Rangers and Liverpool progress it would be a clean sweep for the British team’s, an impressive feat considering the apparent ‘disastrous’ nature of the home game at the minute.

Aston Villa won for the fourth game in a row last night, thumping high-flying Blackburn 4-0 at Ewood Park. The home side had dominated, forcing beleaguered Villa keeper Scott Carson into making three great saves early on, however Martin O’Neil’s men dominated thereafter thanks to goals from John Carew, Gareth Barry, Ashley Young and Marlon Harewood. The win takes Villa up to sixth in the table.

The managerial merry-go-round has been in full swing this week with several changes made in the hotspots of Britain’s top sides. Scotland manager Alex McLeish left the national side to join Birmingham, with Steve Bruce leaving the Midlands outfit to join Wigan. After a drawn out affair regarding compensation Bruce finally joined the Latics earlier this week after the Lancashire side unceremoniously sacked struggling Chris Hutchins. England are still without a manager this week, with popular choice Jose Mourinho not ruling himself out of the role after being badgered for an interview by Sky Sports News outside his home.

Another England managerial candidate made the headlines this week, as Harry Redknapp was arrested by police and released on bail as part on the on-going football bungs enquiry. Amdy Faye – former Charlton and Newcastle donkey – is apparently being held by the old bill, meanwhile Portsmouth chief executive Peter Storrie and former chairman Milan Mandaric were also questioned. The questioning couldn’t have come at a worse time for the Pompey chief, who is being strongly liked alongside Mourinho to take the England job.

images - bbc.co.uk/sport

Green Wants Mourinho

by Danny Wright
West Ham goalkeeper Robert Green has expressed his desire to have former Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho as the next England manager.

The national team are currently without a manger after Steve McClaren was sacked last week following England's failure to qualify for 2008.

Green - overlooked for the majority of the McClaren era - now believes the Special One would be the right man for the job.

"I wouldn't look further than Jose Mourinho. He has the character and know-how to deal with the job as well as the passion," Green told Sky Sports News.

"For England, it should be the right man for the job. A Swede (Sven Goran Erikson) gave me my debut so I'm not one to say it must be an Englishman."

Green had previously expressed his frustration at being left-out of the England fold by McClaren, despite hitting a purple patch at West Ham.

The former Norwich man believes England's failure to qualify stems from an ailing youth system, and he said children do not have the desire to become the starts of tomorrow.

"We would have the best team if we could go into every household and throw away every PlayStation, Xbox and video game," he added.

"Other countries seem to bring on world-class players, countries like Argentina and Brazil where often it's football or nothing."

image - http://img.dailymail.co.uk

Tommy Forecast Interview

Tommy Forecast is a young goalkeeper currently at Tottenham Hotspur having come through the ranks at White Hart Lane, and has recently signed terms with European giants HO Soccer to wear their gloves for the coming seasons. Danny Wright was lucky enough to catch up with the highly-tipped youngster in an exclusive interview for the great-save.com website, where ‘Forka’ chatted at ease about his career, his future and the worst dressed player down at the Lane…

Date of Birth: 15/10/1986
Born: Newark
Nationality: English
Club: Tottenham Hotspur
Wears: HO - Flat Palm Protek
Honours: FA Youth Cup Semi-Final

What’s your earliest footballing memory?
Watching England in the Euro 1996 Champions

When did you realise you could make into the pro game? How did it feel when you signed terms with Spurs?
I was Spurs from the age of 12, and trained with them for a year. It was when I was about 15 or 16 that I thought I have might a chance, and when I get offered my YTS I knew I had my chance. I got my contract and it was an amazing feeling, doing what you love doing for a living is great. I felt relieved when I signed but mainly excitement.

What route/how did you get into the game?
My Mum! She pushed me into playing football and said ‘Why don’t you play in goal?’ and it all came from there really.

What advice would you give to youngsters wanting to become a keeper?
Work as hard as possible, every day. When the opportunity comes make sure you take it.

What’s the best advice you’ve received? Who’s been the biggest influence on your career?
Perry Suckling, who’s the academy goalkeeper coach here at Spurs. When I signed YTS when I was 17 I didn’t have the best of seasons but he told me to keep going and that you’re only as good are your next game. I owe a lot to him for getting for me through that.

Who do you play like/compare yourself to? Did you have any idols when you were younger?
I try watch others players who are the similar sort of body size and shape. I’m quite tall and slim, so maybe Edwin Van der Saar. I watch what he does and practice their sort of physique and style because they are more my body type. People like Peter Cech are the best around so I try to watch them.

How often do you train and what is your favourite drill or practice?
We train every day, we sometimes get a weekday off or every other weekend off depending on the first team and reserve games. We work with Hans (Sagers, Spurs goalkeeper coach) a lot on agility, jumps, springs and stuff for the quads, taking high balls. We do a lot of work on handling and in training we try to hold everything. It’s a good mentality to have that if you hold everything it will become easier to parry when you need to.

What are your strengths/weaknesses?
It’s hard to say…none hopefully! Mentality is important and you’ve got to be ready when that call comes for the first team. If you’re not ready, you’ll lose out when the time comes, so being ready is important.

What’s it like working with Paul Robinson and Hans Sagers?
I’ve improved massively, especially working with Robbo. My handling has improved massively with Hans and working with England’s number one is a great experience.

Paul’s come under a lot of criticism recently, how do you view this?
He’s made mistakes but every does and he’s just been punished for it. He’s England’s number and because of that it’s always going to be highlighted. Everyone has bad spells anywhere you go. If it was a lower league keeper or a team lower in the Premiership that nobody would notice, but because it’s Tottenham and England’s number one it’s different.

How do you deal with criticism?
You’ve got to take it into account and take it on chin. There’s no point being naïve about it and you accept it and work on it.

You’ve been on the bench a couple of times for the first XI, what is this like? Do you feel frustrated not to be playing or are you biding your time?
It’s been a great experience and I’ve just been lucky enough to be a part of it. Just on Monday night I was at Newcastle on the bench and it’s a great ground with a great atmosphere. Not a lot of people get such a chance like I did on Monday. I’m not frustrated at the minute but you just look forward to the next one and look for more experience and you just want more of it.

You’ve been cited as a hot prospect for the future, did this add any pressure on you? How did you deal with praise by contrast?
At a top club there’s always going to be pressure naturally. There’s always people watching you train and watching you play so you need to perform all the time and you’ve got to expect that being at a club like Spurs. You take praise as well as criticism. You’ve just got to keep your feet on the ground and take it with a pinch of salt.

What is your ambitions career playing wise? Where do you see yourself in five years time?
Still in football, it’s a funny game is football and you don’t know where you could be in six weeks, two months, six months, you don’t know where you could be – you never know what’s round the corner in football. Hopefully I’ll still be involved in football.

Why did you choose HO? What model of gloves do you wear?
I wear the Flat Palm Protek. I just find them to be really good gloves, personally I’ve had no problems with them like you do on other gloves where there might be something with the grip, or the strap or whatever. I just like all aspects of their gloves and they’re perfect - I’ve had no problems what so ever.

Who would you say is the best keeper in the world at the moment?
Gianluigi Buffon – he’s won the World Cup and was bought for £30m. I watch Italian football quite a bit and he’s just got everything – he comes for crosses, his kicking – he has it all.

What’s been the best moment of your career so far?
Been involved with the first team has been great. Playing in the FA Youth Cup semi-final at the age of 18 was a big thing, especially at that age – you get the big crowds and there is a need to perform.

And the worst?
Whenever I’ve made mistakes its been pretty tough but probably when I was a first year at the Academy I had a poor season but was lucky enough to be playing week-in week-out so I could rectify my mistakes.

Who’s the best player you’ve played with?
Robbie Keane

What’s the best stadium you’ve played in?
Liverpool’s ground Anfield. I played there in the Fifth Round of the FA Youth Cup. I played at the Kop end which was pretty special.

Who’s the biggest joker in the dressing room?
Robbie Keane and Tom Huddleston are big jokers, but all the lads get involved in the banter and there’s no-one who sulks or anything.

Who’s the best and worst dressed at Tottenham?
The worst? (Laughs) Probably Lee Young Pyo. And the best is probably Dimitar Berbatov. He’s always wearing blazers and shoes and looking sharp…he looks like he’s going on a date.

What music do you listen to?
Anything really – R ‘n’ B, hip hop, garage.

What TV programmes do you watch?
Only Fools and Horses. All comedies really - I have a wide range of humour.

What car do you drive?
A Mercedes.

How did you spend your first wage packet?
Just treated myself to some new clothes, nothing special.

What’s your favourite food/drink?
Favourite food is probably chicken carbonara, and my favourite drink is coke.

What is your nickname?
Forka

If you weren’t a keeper what would you being career wise?
No idea really. I’d probably in some sort of trade. I aren’t very good with computers so probably something like an electrician or plumber.

Describe yourself in five words…
Funny, relaxed, chilled out, sociable.

The Weekend Round-up

by Danny Wright

Everton produced the performance of the weekend as they thrashed sorry Sunderland 7-1 at Goodison. After sustained early pressure it was little surprise the Black Cats buckled when Yakubu’s defected effort crept in off Danny Higginbottom’s despairing tackle. Tim Cahill scored a superb second with a lovely swivel and shot, and good build up lead to Steven Pienaar rattling home a third. Dwight Yorke gave the visitors hope with a good finish but it proved to be a false dawn as Everton killed the game off four minutes into the second half, Cahill capitalising on Paul McShane’s poor defending to slot past Gordon. Rampant Everton went on to add further goals, Yakubu bagging a second with a close rang effort, with fit again Andrew Johnson and Leon Osman scoring goals at a canter to put the Toffees into seventh heaven. It was all too easy for David Moyes’ men, Sunderland manager Roy Keane no doubt petrified at the ease of which his defence was spilt open.

Another team going through defence frailties is Newcastle, who were condemned to a 3-0 home defeat to a rampant Liverpool. Steven Gerrard – one of the many England flops booed this weekend – opened the scoring with a belting free-kick with Dirk Kuyt adding a scruffy second. Ryan Babel tucked home a classy finish to seal a convincing win, the Reds putting off the field friction behind them to churn out an impressive result.

Sir Alex Ferguson was sent to the stands as his Manchester United side lost out to Gary Megson’s Bolton, 1-0 the final score at the Reebok. Kevin Davies and Patrice Evra enjoyed a personal duel where bad tackles were exchanged before Nikolas Anelka struck after 11 minutes to claim a rare win for the strugglers.

Derby were condemned to another defeat as goals from Solomon Kalou and Shaun Wright Phillips did the damage in a 2-0 loss to Chelsea. To their credit Derby were unlucky to have a Kenny Miller strike ruled out, but that aside they offered little else going forward to threaten the Chelsea goal.

New Wigan manager Steve Bruce saw his side go down 2-0 at Arsenal despite a brave showing, with his former club Birmingham also defeated by Portsmouth. Goalkeeper Richard Kingson had a debut to forget as Sulley Muntari’s weak shot crept under his body to give Pompey the lead and Niko Kranjcar capped off an enjoyable weak by scoring the winner with a stunning free-kick.

Aston Villa piled the pressure on Middlesborough manager Gareth Southgate as they thumped the sorry Teesiders 3-0 at the Riverside. Scott Carson looked edgy but managed a useful clean sheet, the under-fire England stopper lucky to keep out a Stuart Downing drive early on. That proved to be a rare foray forward for Boro who were outclassed from then on, goals from John Carew, Olof Melberg and Gabby Agbonlahor doing the damage.

Robert Green saved a last minute penalty to rescue his side a point against Tottenham, however the out of favour England keeper was at fault for Spurs equalizer, the former Norwich man in no-man’s land as Michael Dawson headed in. Carlton Cole had put the Hammers ahead as Spurs had a penalty appeal turned down in the first half, only for a spot-kick awarded to be awarded in dying minutes which Green saved expertly from Jermaine Defoe. Ditched England keeper Paul Robinson also enjoyed a good game, pulling off two smart saves to deny the home side in a welcome return to form for the Tottenham man.

The Sven Revolution keeps on going at Manchester City where they beat Reading 2-1 at Eastlands. Martin Petrov got the ball rolling but James Harper leveled in the Royals first attack, and the visitor’s thought they had snatched a point only for a fully-clothed Stephen Ireland to thump a stunning injury-time volley to snatch all three points.

In the weekends other game Fulham and Blackburn drew 2-2. After a tepid first half the clash came to lift in the second when Danny Murphy tucked home a penalty for Fulham with Brett Emerton leveling for Rovers. Antti Niemi kept the hosts in the tie with a string of fine saves as Diomansy Kamara put his side back in the lead, thus leaving Fulham in the precarious position of holding on for the win. Inevitably Rovers equalized through Stephen Warnock with ten minutes to go, continuing the Cottagers trend of throwing the points at their mercy.

England will be sick of the sight of Croatia this week as they were placed with Slaven Billic’s men in World Cup 2010 qualifying Group Six. The draw – made in Durban, South Africa – pits manager less England against their adversaries Croatia, Ukraine, Belarus, Kazakhstan and Andorra. Scotland are paired with Holland, meanwhile Wales will face Russia and Germany. Northern Ireland face Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia and San Marino in a tricky group and the Republic of Ireland face world champions Italy.

images - bbc.co.uk/sport

Great Save Magazine Issue 3

If you hadn't already seen on the site, the new edition of the Great Save magazine is available to download here.

In this issue you will find:

Gigi Buffon feature
Top 10 Keepers Outside the Premiership feature
Top 10 Selling Gloves of the Season So Far
Xmas Gift Guides...a present for the goalkeeper in your life
The chance to win signed Ben Foster Gloves
New Season Ranges

Don't delay...download yours today!

Seasons Greetings,
The Great Save Team

The Mid-week Review

by Danny Wright
England will not be going to Euro 2008. In a poor, passionless display, they were defeated by a very good Croatia side, 3-2 the final score at Wembley. Scott Carson and England endured a nightmare start when a bobbling shot from Portsmouth’s Nico Kranjcar deceived the Aston Villa keeper and crept into the net to give the Croats a shock lead. The game had barely restarted before Slaven Billic's men had added a second, Ivica Olic rounding Carson to punish some slack English defending.

England were tossed a lifeline when substitute Jermaine Defoe won a second half penalty, Josip Simunic flagged up for a pull on Tottenham man, with Frank Lampard holding his nerve to make it 2-1. David Beckham then set up Peter Crouch for a tremendous equalizer, the lanky striker bringing the ball down expertly and tucking home a great cross from the former captain. The game then opened up as Carson twice foiled Croaita with smart saves and England pressed, but it wasn't enough as Mladen Petric fired home a 25-year shot to make it 3-2, England's hopes well and truly over.

As the nation mourns there is one thing to come good of Wednesday's game - Steve McClaren's imminent resignation/unceremonious sacking.

None of the home nations will be going to next summer's European Championships as Northern Ireland were defeated by Spain to end their slim hopes. Nigel Worthington's men needed to win and hope Latvia defeated Sweden in Stockholm; however neither result materialized as Xavi's deflected effort condemned the visitors to a 1-0 defeat, meanwhile Sweden defeated the Latvians 2-1. Unlike England, the Northern Irish can look back on the campaign with pride, exceeding all expectations with some terrific displays that included a home win over the Spanish and David Healy breaking the record for the highest number of goals scored in European Championship qualifying (13).

The other home nation in action tonight was Wales, who picked up an impressive point in Germany to finish fifth in Group 10, 0-0 the final score in a game of few chances, and back on the domestic scene, there were wins for Bournemouth, Brighton, Grimsby, Hereford, Northampton and Forest Green in FA Cup 1st round replay matches on Tuesday night.

images - bbc.co.uk/sport

Carson Expects Bench Duty

by Danny Wright

Scott Carson belives he will be on the bench for England's make or break qualifier against Croatia on Wednesday - despite making a rare start in Friday's win over Austria.

The Aston Villa keeper kept a clean sheet in the 1-0 win in Vienna, keeping a clean sheet against a side that seldom threatened the England goal, but Carson believes Paul Robinson will be restored to the starting XI.

"I've played in big games before but I'm not thinking I'm going to be playing on Wednesday," Carson told Sky Sports News.

"I think it would be the same on Wednesday but that's down to the manager. He hasn't said anything about it yet. I don't know what's happening."

England only need a point against the Croats to qualify after Israel kept the Euro 2008 dream alive by beating Russia 2-1 on Saturday.

Although Carson is unlikely to be involved on Wednesday, the 22-year-old is happy to be involved in the international fold as he steps up his bid to replace Paul Robinson as the England Number One.

"It's whetted my appetite for international football. It has done ever since I've been in the squad. Hopefully, there will be a few more caps in the future," he added.

"But I'm very grateful for him (manager Steve McClaren) giving me my chance and hopefully I have done okay for him."

image - dailymail.co.uk

The Weekend Round-up

by Danny Wright

Scotland’s Euro 2008 dreams were brought to a heartbreaking end as they were felled by Italy 2-1 in front of a packed out Hampden Park. Luck wasn’t on the Scots' side as contentious refereeing decisions went against them, however they couldn’t complain about the first goal as haphazard defending cost Scotland dear as Italy scored after just 75 seconds to silence the boisterous home crowd. Alex McLeish’s men rallied immediately though, forcing a serious of corners and having a strong penalty appeal turned down. It was in the second half when Scotland finally broke through, James McFadden’s deflected free kick turned in by Barry Ferguson to send Hampden into raptures.

Gordon saved well from Ambrosini to keep Scotland in the game, meanwhile the Italians had an effort incorrectly ruled out for offside as the visitors grabbed the decisive goal late in the game, Christian Panucci nodding home from an incorrectly awarded free-kick. So it wasn’t to be for Scotland, but their brave attitude and endeavor can only be applauded – hats well and truly off to Walter Smith and Alex McLeish, whose expertise guided an ailing unit into a resurgent fighting force once again.

One of the home nations going to the Euro’s next year could be England, who were given a lifeline by Israel’s terrific 2-1 win over Russia on Saturday night. England must now beat Croatia at Wembley on Wednesday or draw and hope results go their way in order to qualify. Steve McClaren – you’re the luckiest man in the land, no excuses now.

Another team upsetting the applecart is Northern Ireland, who provided international football with another upset as they beat Denmark 2-1 at a wet and windy Windsor Park. Nikolas Bendtner prodded the Danes ahead with a scruffy goal, but Warren Feeney headed level to lift Nigel Worthington’s men, with national hero David Healy taking centre stage to chip home a sublime effort to give his side all three points. The goal was Healy’s 13th of the qualifying campaign, setting a new European record for the highest number of goals scored in qualification. Northern Ireland now travel to Spain on Wednesday for one final showdown in what has been a memorable campaign. A win and a Swedish defeat against Latvia are required for an unlikely qualification.

Wales and the Republic of Ireland played out a tepid 2-2 draw at the Millennium Stadium, a match very much resembling both sides’ poor campaigns. Luckily, only a sparse crow was on hand to witness the dead rubber match as James Koumas headed Wales ahead after 23 minutes, only for the ever reliable Robbie Keane to haul the Irish level. Promising Reading star Kevin Doyle then put Ireland ahead but Koumas tucked home a penalty late in the day to make honours even.

Teams already going to Austria and Switzerland include Spain, Croatia, Romania, Holland, Germany, Czech Republic, Greece, Poland, Italy and France.

image - bbc.co.uk/sport

Foster has United Doubts

by Danny Wright

Injured goalkeeper Ben Foster admits he may not play for Manchester United this season.

Foster has been out since May after rupturing his cruciate knee ligaments having return to Manchester following a successful two-year loan spell at Watford.

The 24-year-old is set to begin training again in February and admits he is unlikely to feature for United this campaign.

"It is going to be early February before I can start training with the rest of the squad again and March before I can play,” Foster told the Times.

"It is definitely something to aim for. But at this moment in time I would take anything; the reserves or a short loan spell somewhere. That would allow me to kick on next season."

Foster has enjoyed a meteoric rise since his loan-spell at Watford, impressing United manager Sir Alex Ferguson and earning an England call up for the 2006 World Cup.

Foster made his debut for England in February of this year in a 1-0 home defeat to Spain, and it could be the international fold that provides the former Stoke keeper with his comeback; should England fail to qualify for Euro 2008 a series of friendlies are in line for next summer - which could provide Foster with the perfect opportunity to stake his claim.

The Leamington-spa born stopper isn't going to jump the gun though, insisting:

"First things first. I have to force my way in at United. You can’t expect to be picked for England if you are not in your club team. "

Foster admits his time on the sidelines has been a frustrating one, adding:

"I am an awful watcher, and this whole experience has been massively frustrating for me,"

"I had a lot of expectation for what this season was going to hold for me. It is so disappointing when you are told you are going to be out for eight months.”

image - www.manunitedpies.tv/

Rafa: Carson can go

by Danny Wright

Liverpool manager Rafael Benetiz has told goalkeeper Scott Carson he can make his loan deal with Aston Villa permanent.

Carson is currently out on a season long-loan at the Midlands outfit and the 22-year-old recently revealed a permanent deal had been agreed between the two clubs.

The former Leeds keeper has been seldom used at Liverpool, having being shipped out on loan to Charlton and Sheffield Wednesday respectively.

Benetiz has told Villa they can have Carson if they want, and the Spaniard understands why he may want to leave the club.

"He knows Jose Reina is top class and it'll be difficult for him to play here. Villa can decide if they want to keep him," Benetiz told the club's official website.

"At the moment we are concentrating on our own team and our own competitions, but Villa can decide if they want to keep the player."

Carson is currently on England duty and is set to start against Austria in tonight's friendly in Vienna, and the Cumbrian born keeper believes his concentration holds the key.

“It has been a totally different challenge for me this season. Last season, when I was on loan at Charlton, I was having to make five or six saves a game,” Carson told BBC Sport.

"With a team like Villa this season, I am lucky to have to save one shot a game. That is why [Chelsea's] Petr Cech is probably the best 'keeper in the world because he has that one save to make and he does it."

"For me, I've had to work on different aspects of my game this season like concentration and that is the main thing."

image - www.cafc.co.uk

Buffon Wary of Scots

by Danny Wright

Italy goalkeeper Gigi Buffon has warned his side not to take opponents Scotland too lightly.

The two sides meet at Hampden Park on Saturday for a crunch Euro 2008 qualifier, with the winner of the tie likely to qualify for next summer's tournament.

Scotland have been the dark horse of the group, beating France twice and are healthily placed in second in Group B, something Buffon is wary of.

"Scotland are always worthy of respect and football in Scotland is evolving," Buffon told the Guardian.

"Perhaps compared to us they have been inferior technically but from the point of view of character they have always had a good squad that can narrow the gap."

The 29-year-old picked out Everton's James McFadden and Derby's Kenny Miller for particular praise, saying:

"As a goalkeeper I always look out for my opponent's strikers and I must say that James McFadden is a very good player and Kenny Miller has also impressed me."

The Juventus goalkeeper has however issued a warning to Alex McLeish's men, saying their experience will give them the edge over the Scots:

"We could be afraid if we didn't have experience but the squad is full of players who have experience of Serie A, the Champions League and the World Cup so we will not find ourselves unprepared"

"If anyone is afraid it is Scotland who are afraid of us."

image - http://www.calcioblog.it/

Carson Wants England Jersey

by Danny Wright

Liverpool goalkeeper Scott Carson has set his sights on the England number one shirt.

The 22-year-old is currently on a season long loan at Aston Villa and is eager to stake his claim for the England number one spot having being selected for tomorrow's friendly with Austria.

Current number Paul Robinson has come under fire recently for a series of high profile mistakes, something which Carson is keen to capitalise on.

"To be the England number one, that is the target. There is no point in me sitting around settling for what I've got," Carson told Sky Sports News

"I've got to try and keep climbing the ladder, work hard and hopefully I'll get my chance for England and show that I am up to standard. "

Carson is line to start in Vienna on Friday, but he stressed the competition for the jersey is strong.

"I don't think there is a big gap between all the keepers from Robert Green, Chris Kirkland, David James and Robbo. I don't think there is a massive gap," he added.

Carson started out at Leeds United where he impressed on Yorkshire before being snapped up by Liverpool in 2005 for a fee of £1m, however the Cumbrian born stopper has yet to have a lengthy spell in the side, being loaned out to Sheffield Wednesday, Charlton and Villa respectively.

image - skysports.com

Lehmann On His Way?

by Danny Wright

Arsenal goalkeeper Jens Lehmann has hinted he may leave the club in order to secure first team football.

The 38-year-old is currently second choice behind Manuel Almunia after loosing his place in the Gunners side having started the season as first choice.

The German is looking for regular football though - citing his Euro 2008 ambitions as his motivation for a possible move away from London, telling Sky Sports News:

"I definitely want to play at Euro 2008. Playing there has always been my aim,"

"The Bundesliga is always attractive and is an option, and maybe the German second division is too."

Lehmann is set to hold talks with German coach Joachim Low at Christmas to help decide his future, and the lure of international football may prove too tempting for the former Borussia Dortmund man.

The German hasn't played a game for Arsenal since being dropped following howlers in successive games against Fulham and Blackburn earlier in the season, and has voiced his frustration at being out of the team - but the out-spoken German hasn't given up hope of regaining his place just yet.

"The manager knows I am highly motivated. I would like to play again soon and expect that I will do,"

"I would be very surprised if that was not the case," he added.

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The Weekend Round-up

by Danny Wright

Honours were even in the Tyne-Wear derby at the Stadium of Light, Sunderland and Newcastle grinding out a 1-1 draw. The home side had dominated but couldn’t find a way past a resistant Magpies backline, only for Danny Higginbottom to nod Sunderland ahead. James Milner was on hand to rescue a point for the visitor’s though as his cross-shot deceived Craig Gordon and found its way into the bottom corner, a point apiece a fair result in the balance of things. One other incident of note was a horror challenge by Joey Barton (yes, the innocent Joey Barton who never gets in trouble) on Dickson Etuhu, with the FA set to scrutinise the disgusting tackle which involved Barton’s studs finding their way into Etuhu’s groin.

The other derby of the weekend involved bitter rivals Birmingham and Aston Villa, Martin O’Neil’s men coming out on top in a 2-1 win at St Andrews. Liam Ridgewell appeared to be doing his old club a favour when he inadvertently turned a Stillian Petrov cross past his own goalkeeper, only for ice-cool ice man Mikael Forssell to level for the home side. Gabriel Agbonlahor headed a dramatic winner though to break Birmingham hearts, the pacy talisman getting on the end of Ashley Young’s cross.

Manchester United top the Premiership table after they beat Blackburn 2-0 at Old Trafford, Cristiano Ronaldo’s double helping United on their way. Arsenal take on Reading tomorrow yet the chasing pack couldn’t capitalise on winnable fixtures as Chelsea dropped points at home to Everton in a 1-1 draw, meanwhile Portsmouth and Manchester City battled out a 0-0 bore draw.

Liverpool continued their winning form as the beat Fulham 2-0 at Anfield. On the back of an 8-0 drubbing of Besiktas in midweek, the Reds looked hungry for more goals as they peppered the Fulham goal, the saves on Antti Niemi keeping the Cottagers in the tie. Fulham – who have never won at Anfield – held out until the 80th when Fernando Torres hit a well taken individual goal, with Steven Gerrard slotting home a penalty to complete the win.

Sorry Derby take a step closer towards a swift Championship return as they were drubbed 5-0 by West Ham at Pride Park. Lee Bowyer scored his first of two after latching onto Carlton’s Cole knock down as Matthew Etherington scored home a second. Eddie Lewis unluckily forced the ball over his line from Jonathan Spector’s shot to make it 3-0, and Bowyer scored his second with a thumping finish to make it 4-0. Nolberto Solano curled home a delightful free-kick to complete the rout and compound Billy Davies’ misery.

Jaunde Ramos’ reign at Spurs continued with their second win of the week, defeating manageress Wigan 4-0 at White Hart Lane. Jermaine Jenas’ brace inside 26 first half minutes put Tottenham in cruise control at 2-0, with Aaron Lennon putting the game beyond doubt eight minutes later with a fine 25-yard strike. Darren Bent scored his second goal in as many matches to the shock of many to make it four and polish off beleaguered Wigan.

The weekend’s stretch of entertaining games was concluded by a pulsating 0-0 stale mater at the Reebok, where Bolton and Middlesborough drew blanks in a bottom-of-the-table clash. The result leaves Gary Megon without a win as the Trotters manager, as Boro struggle for firepower and languish a lowly 17th in the table.

In other news, the News of the World report Sven Goran Eriksson wants to bring under fire Tottenham goalkeeper Paul Robinson to Eastlands, meanwhile an Italian footballer supporter was shot dead on Sunday following clashes with police ahead of a game between Inter and Lazio.

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Green doesn't make England Cut

by Danny Wright

West Ham goalkeeper Robert Green has been left out of the England squad for their crunch Euro 2008 qualifier with Croatia on November 21st.

England must beat the Croats at Wembley and hope Russia slip up in Isreal and Andorra five days earlier if they are to qualify for next summer's tournament.

Green had been hoping for a call to the national side after finding some good form with the Hammers, however Steve McClaren has overlooked the former Norwich man - choosing regulars Paul Robinson, Scott Carson and David James instead.

This will no doubt frustrate Green who recently lifted the lid on his omission from the England fold.

He told the People: “I don't think that I've played any better than I have been. I've played worse and been in the team,"

"It's difficult to understand why I'm not involved in the England set-up or even had a look in at all - I find that a bit harsh.” he added.

England squad: Robinson, Carson, James, P Neville, Campbell, Richards, Brown, Lescott, Shorey, Bridge, A Cole, Beckham, Wright-Phillips, Bentley, Gerrard, Lampard, Hargreaves, Barry, J Cole, Downing, Young, Smith, Crouch, Defoe, Owen

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Cech Injury Blow for Blues

by Danny Wright

Chelsea will be without influential goalkeeper Peter Cech for their home clash with Everton on Sunday.

The Czech stopper will also miss his countries Euro 2008 qualifiers against Slovakia and Cyprus after he tore his right calf muscle in Chelsea's Champions League draw with Schalke 04 on Tuesday.

"I don't know exactly how it happened. I only know that I felt a pain from the 10th minute of the match," Cech told BBC Sport.

"Nevertheless I played the first half. I feel bad that I will be out right now when myself as well as my team are both doing well."

Cech had to be replaced by Carlo Cudicini at half-time, the injury coming at a bad time for manager Avram Grant who already has John Terry, Paulo Ferreira and Ashley Cole sidelined with injury.

Chelsea fans won't need reminding of the poor run of form last season that coincided with injuries to Cech and skipper Terry, a spell which severely hindered the Blues title hopes.

The 24-year-old has kept clean sheets in Chelsea's last six league and European outings, Grant no doubt eager for his star keeper to make a swift return.

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The Mid-week Review

by Danny Wright

A Thierry Henry handball helped Barcelona on their way to a 2-0 win over Rangers at the Nou Camp. The former Arsenal man forced the ball home with his arm after Lionel Messi's header came back of the post, with Messi on hand to seal the win just before half-time. Rangers seldom threatened the Barca goal but still remain in second place in Group E despite the defeat.

SPL rivals Celtic faired better on Tuesday as they defeated Benfica 1-0 at Celtic Park. Arthur Boruc played his part in the win, foiling Oscar Cardozo in the first half to keep the scores level before Aiden McGeady scored a deflected winner on the stroke of half-time. Celtic lie third in Group D but are level on points with Shakhtar Donetsk, a game the Scottish side must win in their next encounter to keep their qualification hopes alive.

A rampant Liverpool broke the record for the biggest Champions League win as they put no fewer than eight goals past sorry Besiktas. A Yosssi Benayoun hat-trick did the damage as Peter Crouch and Ryan Babel chipped in with two a piece, meanwhile Steve Gerrard completed the rout following fine build up play with John Arne Riise.

Arsenal progressed into the next stage following their 0-0 draw with Slavia Prague. The display was far from convincing as they had to thank Manuel Almunia for keeping them in the tie, his saves from Zdenek Senkerik ensuring the Gunners went through. No doubt the Spaniard had Arsene Wenger's comments ringing in his ears following a nervy display against Manchester United at the weekend.

Manchester United hit four past Dynamo Kiev to qualify for the knock-out stages. Gerard Pique headed a first with Wayne Rooney and Carlos Tevez combining to double United's advantage, the later doing the damage as Kiev looked all at sea. Rooney then converted a superb Nani cross to make it three, and Cristiano Ronaldo scored a fine individual goal to complete the rout.

Chelsea couldn't qualify as they drew blanks with Schalke 04, 0-0 the final score in Germany. A win would have taken Avram Grant's men through but a point still keeps the Blues at the top of Group B.

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Wenger backs Almunia

by Danny Wright

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has given his backing to under-fire goalkeeper Manuel Almunia.

Almunia has come under scrutiny for his part in Arsenal's 2-2 draw with Manchester United at the weekend.

The Spaniard was slow to react to a Wayne Ronney mis-hit for United's first and left his goal open for Cristiano Ronaldo to tap home in the second half.

Wenger told BBC Sport: "I believe in sticking with one goalkeeper,"

"You cannot tell him: 'No matter how many mistakes you make, you'll always be my goalkeeper.' But you have to give him at least two games."

Saturday aside Almunia has been in fine form for the Gunners, playing an integral part in their 25 match unbeaten run.

However, Wenger admitted he had doubts over Almunia's decisions in the top of the table clash, adding:

"He rushed out to block the cross and I feel he was unhappy with his decision-making,"

"But, would he have caught the ball? Could he have stayed inside? He left his goal and didn't get his ball so he'll feel as if he made a mistake. I'll have to watch it again."

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The Weekend Round-up

by Danny Wright


Bolton snatched a priceless point away at West Ham to lift the spirits at the Reebok following the gloom surrounding Gary Megson’s appointment. The Hammers had taken the lead through George McCartney’s precise volley but captain Kevin Nolan was on hand to sweep home a Lubomir Michalik’s flick on late in the day.

Derby remain rooted to the foot of the table following a 2-0 defeat at the hands of Aston Villa – goals from Martin Laursen and Ashley Young doing the damage – meanwhile strugglers Tottenham and Middlesborough cancelled each other out at the Riverside. Darren Bent scored his first goal in half a century to give Spurs a surprise lead, but a Luke Young thunderbolt salvaged a point for Gareth Southgate’s men.

Life after Mourinho seemingly hasn’t hampered Chelsea’s title hopes as they brushed aside Wigan 2-0 at the JJB Stadium. Goals from Frank Lampard and a wonder hit from Juliano Belletti proved enough to give Chelsea their seventh consecutive win in all competitions, the Blues surely indebted to their ridiculously bright away shirt.

Fulham dispatched Reading 3-1 at Craven Cottage in an entertaining encounter. Simon Davies lashed home a sweet strike only for Kevin Doyle to hit back, however the Cottagers picked up their second win of the season thanks to Clint Dempsey and David Healy’s goals.

Birmingham remain in the lower reaches of the table after they were blitzed by a late Everton showing at Goodison. Yakubu put the Toffees head yet the home side couldn’t convert their chances and they were punished for their lack of potency as Olivier Kapo headed an equaliser. Lee Carsley let rip with a 25-yard rocket to restore Everton’s lead in the 90th minute, and the shaven Irish star set up James Vaughan for his side’s third with a defence splitting header, 3-1 the final result.

Portsmouth scored three times in 11 minutes to stun Newcastle 4-1 at St James. Noe Pamarot was the unlikely scorer as he gave Pompey the lead with a thumping left-foot strike, with Benjani and John Utaka punishing some lacklustre defending to put the game beyond doubt. Michael Owen pulled one back - capitalising on David James’ fumble – only for Nike Kranjcar to restore Pompey’s three goal advantage.

Liverpool fired blanks at Blackburn as they played out an uninspiring 0-0 draw, as Arsenal and Manchester United shared the spoils in a thrilling clash at the Emirates. William Gallas unluckily turned into his own net to give United the lead, but Cesc Fabregas compensated for his team-mates misfortune by equalising. Manuel Almunia then went walkies in the second half to allow Cristiano Ronaldo to put United ahead, only for Gallas to stab home a dramatic late effort.

Sunderland and Craig Gordon take on Manchester City on Monday at Eastlands, with European action firmly on the agenda this week as the Premiership’s finest take on the rest of the continent.

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Coppell firm on Hahnemann Deal

by Danny Wright

Reading manager Steve Coppell has refused to bow to pressure from keeper Marucs Hahnemann over a new contract.

Hahnemann vented his frustrations earlier in the week as it was revealed his current deal - which expires in the summer - has yet to be renewed.

Coppell told Sky Sports News: "You need to know his personality - he needed to get it off his chest and thump his chest a little bit,"

"If he was in his mid-twenties then the chances are he would be on a long-term contract but he is not, he is in his mid-thirties. "

The American stopper has been a fine representative for Reading since signing for the Berkshire club in 2002, helping them to the Championship title in 2006 and playing an integral part in the side that finished eighth in their first ever Premiership season.

This however hasn't detterred Coppell on his stance, and he added:

"We are not going to commit without knowing exactly where we are going to be. Nothing will be done until that situation is resolved."

image - bbc.co.uk/sport

The Mid-week Review

by Danny Wright

Chelsea beat Leicester City 4-3 in an enthralling Carling Cup tie at Stamford Bridge. Championship side Leicester shocked their Premeriship opponents in the sixth minute when they took a suprise lead, Gareth McAuley's header beating Carlo Cudicini. The home side regained their composure though as Frank Lampard scored twice inside ten minutes to restore parity, but Avram Grant's men fell behind again when DJ Campbell and Carl Cort punished some slack Chelsea defending. Out-of-sorts strike Andriy Shevchenko was on hand to fire home a superb equaliser, and stalwart Lampard was on hand again to save Chelsea's blushes as his deflected effort crept over the line. It was a brave effort from managerless Leicester, who were indebted to keeper Martin Fullop's heriocs, whose saves kept the Foxes in the tie for long periods of a thrilling game.

Premiership big-boys Arsenal had no such qualms in dispatching Sheffield United, as they beat Bryan Robon's sorry Blades 3-0 at Brammal Lane. Eduardo's thunberbolt gave Arsene Wenger's young guns the lead after eight minutes and he was on hand again to double the advantage, cooly slotting home Kieran Gibb's pass. Denilson completed the win late on to send rampagaing Arsenal into the quarter-finals.

Robbie Fowler's return to Anfield wasn't a happy one as his Cardiff side went down 2-1 at Liverpool despite a brave fight. Nabil El Zhar rattled home a peach of a strike to give Liverpool the lead, but the Welsh side hit back when Darren Purse nodded them level, only for captain-fantastic Steven Gerrard to steal Fowler's thunder with a well-worked goal.

Merseyside rivals Everton were given a scare by Luton at Kenilworth Road, taking the Toffees to extra time before succumbing to Tim Cahill's goal, meanwhile West Ham beat Coventry 2-1 at the Rioch Arena thanks to a Marcus Hall own goal and Carlton Cole's late effort.

Juande Ramos's much anticipated first game in charge of Tottenham resulted in a win for the new-look Spanish managment at White Hart Lane, Blackpool on the receiving end of a 2-0 defeat, the goals coming from Robbie Keane and Pascal Chimbonda. Paul Robinson was restored to the side at the expense of Radek Cerny, but the England Number One did him self few favours with an unconvincing display.

A dour game came into life in the final five minutes at the Reebok Stadium where Manchester City beat Bolton with a smash and grab effort, Elano's 86th minute penalty denying Gary Megson's side. Bolton rallied late into the night with El Hadj Diouf hitting the bar and Michael Ball clearing off the line for City.

Blackburn's fine season continued at Portsmouth with a 2-1 win, goals from Morten Gamst Pedersen and Benni McCarthy seeing of Harry Redknapp's men.

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