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The Weekend Round-up

2008-01-20T22:50:00.000Z

By Danny Wright

Everton leap-frogged Liverpool into fourth place by beating Wigan 2-1 at the JJB. In truth, Everton were dominated by Steve Bruce’s strugglers and were lucky to be 2-0 ahead at the break, Marcus Bent seeing a header saved and Emile Heskey being denied by Tim Cahill’s block. Bumbling Titus Bramble did his reputation no good by setting Andy Johnson up for Everton’s opener, the clown footed defender’s pass back falling desperately short for Johnson to duly snaffle the loose ball and nut-megg Chris Kirkland. Before Wigan could recover, they were 2-0 down, Joleon Lescott tapping in unmarked at the far post after the Latics failed to clear a corner. The home side dominated thereafter, and got back into the game despite not scoring – Phil Jagielka bundling the ball over his own line from a Jason Koumas free-kick, Toffees stopper Tim Howard looking far from convincing. For all their pressure, the score stayed the same as the Toffees reach the Holy Grail of the Champions League places. Liverpool have two games in hand, but with pressure on Rafa Benetiz, nothing less than a win against Aston Villa tomorrow will do for the Reds.

If things weren’t bad enough for Liverpool, Manchester City added to their woes by also overtaking them in the standings, their 1-1 draw with West Ham enough to put the Citizens into fifth. These two sides had met just four days earlier in a FA Cup replay in what was a dour affair, with this offering only marginally better, despite Carlton Cole’s spectacular overhead kick that gave the Hammers the lead. Joe Hart did his bit to keep the hosts in the tie as Darius Vassell levelled from Martin Petrov’s centre; although City still looking formidable, you cannot help but feel they lack the dimension needed to see off teams and earn a European berth, Aston Villa and Everton looking the more likely at present.

At the league’s summit Manchester United are sitting pretty at the climax, having seen off Reading 2-0 at Madejski. The score line suggests a comfortable return for United but that was far from the truth as Reading pressed and pressed but couldn’t reap the necessary results as Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo dispatched the Royals in style. Arsenal were also clinical in seeing off struggling opposition, Fulham on the receiving end of a 3-0 defeat at Craven Cottage as Emmanuel Adebayor’s carbon copy headers put the Gunners into an insurmountable 2-0 lead. Tomas Rosicky compounded the defeat with a late third.

King Kevin Keegan couldn’t mark his second coming as Newcastle manager with a win, his side stuttering to a 0-0 draw at home to Bolton. On a day where the paparazzo went into overdrive and no superlative was left unspluttered to describe Keegan’s arrival, the game itself proved to be a proverbial damp squib; Jussi Jaaskelainen went untested in the Bolton goal, and it was in fact the visitor’s who nearly snatched the win, Shay Given saving late in the day to foil Jlloyd Samuel. The following is a rare sentence to appear in football writing - so saviour it for what it’s worth - and don’t adjust your monitors, but… nice one Gary Megson.

In the mid-table dogfight, Portsmouth sank Derby with ease at Fratton Park, 3-1 the final score in favour of the hosts. Derby in fact took a surprise lead, Lewin Nyatanga prodding home from close range after five minutes. Pompey inevitably responded though, Benjani’s shot and powerful header setting them on their way as they restored the lead, with the big centre-forward completing his hat-trick on the counter attack with a cool finish. The goals scored by Pompey were the first to be seen at Fratton Park for the first time in six matches (9 hours to be precise), this being a testament to how poor Derby really are.

Middlesborough dominated at Blackburn but could only come away from Lancashire with a point, 1-1 the final score. A lack of finesse in front of goal proved Boro’s downfall again, Tuncay, Wheater and Aliadiere all guilty of missing vital chances, this despite Wheater nodding his side ahead from Stuart Downing’s free kick. Matt Derbyshire ultimately punished the visitor’s lack of firepower by tapping home with fifteen minutes left.

Tottenham beat Sunderland 2-0 at the Lane to heap more misery on Roy Keane’s men. Craig Gordon kept the Blackcats in the game, his saves denying Spurs on numerous occasions, but the Scot was helpless to stop Aaron Lennon and Robbie Keane’s 100th Tottenham goal condemning his side to defeat. Chelsea keep going about their (title) business quietly, beating Birmingham 1-0 at St Andrews.

In other news, Celtic are lining up a bid for Celtic £1m bid for American international goalkeeper Brad Guzman, according to the News of the World, and The People reported today that Paul Robinson is on his way to Manchester City in a £4m move.

images - bbc.co.uk/sport

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On the move - Update your bookmarks

2008-01-20T21:31:00.000Z

The Great-Save Blog is on the move! We've combined our fantastic Blog with GreatSave.tv and incorporated it into our main website. Please update your bookmarks to blog.great-save.com

Kirkland's Burning Ambition

2008-01-19T14:38:00.001Z

By Danny Wright

Wigan goalkeeper Chris Kirkland has revealed his plans following footballer retirement – he wants to be a fire fighter.

In an interview with The Independent, the former Liverpool stopper revealed it has always been his ambition to join the fire service after his football career has finished.

"A lot of people don't actually realise what fire-fighters do," Kirkland said.

"This interest has always been with me. The passion to do it has always been there, and as footballers we are idolised for kicking a ball around but fire-fighters actually make a sacrifice."

Kirkland, 26, has by no means had any easy route to the pinnacle of English football, having been rejected as by his village side to play in the sticks. However, rigorous training seasons with father Eddie on a local recreation field helped Kirkland's prospects flourish.

The hard work eventually paid off when the Barwell born stopper was snapped up by Coventry City in 1999, before moving onto Liverpool in 2001 and current club Wigan in 2006. Injuries have blighted Kirkland's career so far, limiting him to one solitary England cap in 2006 as a second half substitute against Greece.

image - http://www.totalwigan.com/

Read the full interview with Kirkland here.

Rams Fail In Carroll Bid

2008-01-18T10:19:00.000Z

By Danny Wright

Derby have failed to sign Rangers goalkeeper Roy Carroll.

Paul Jewell has been without first choice Stephen Bywater and has been looking to strengthen his options in the January transfer window.

The relegation bound club had touted the former West Ham keeper as a potential target, however Rangers haven't been able to bring in goalkeeping cover of their own - meaning the Rams only have Lewis Price and youngster Ben Hinchliffe on their books.

Jewell told BBC Radio Derby: "We had him here last Thursday and I thought it was done,"

"But Rangers didn't sign a keeper in time so we couldn't sign him. We'll have to look elsewhere."

Carroll has just made one start for the Gers - a CIS Insurance cup game against East Fife - this despite the 30-year-old withdrawing from a Northern Ireland squad earlier in the season to focus on "club commitments".

"Roy's gutted because he was desperate to come here, but it hasn't happened," Jewell added.

image - http://www.statsgalore.com/

Tyler To Join Tigers

2008-01-17T11:59:00.000Z

By Danny Wright

Hull City are set to recruit Peterborough goalkeeper Mark Tyler on loan.

The Tigers are currently without Matt Duke, who is recovering from a tumour revomal operation, and young back-up Curtis Aspden.

That leaves Phil Brown with Boaz Myhill as his solitary stopper, so the Humberside outfit are set to bring in the 30-year-old on a month's loan with a view to a permanent deal.

Tyler has made over 500 appearances for Peterborough but has lost his place to club record signing Joe Lewis, who signed from Norwich last week for a £500,000 fee.

image - cache.viewimages.com

Legend Banks Statue Unveiled by Pele

2008-01-17T11:37:00.000Z

By Danny Wright

England goalkeeping legend Gordon Banks will have a statue erected and unveiled for him by former Brazilian star Pele.

Banks is highly regarded as England's best ever goalkeeper and pulled off one the best saves of all time in the 1970 World Cup Finals, where the Stoke man denied a goal bound Pele header.

Now it has been revealed the Brazilian will unveil the statue in the summer out side Stoke's Britannia Stadium.

Bank's represented England in their solitary 1966 World Cup triumph, and also played for Leicester City and Chesterfield before his career was cruelly cut short by a car accident.

Author Don Mullen coined the idea to commemorate the goalkeeping legend, with local artist Andrew Edwards set to make the £350,000 sculpture.

image - thefa.com

Almunia's England Intention

2008-01-16T11:44:00.001Z

By Danny Wright

Arsenal goalkeeper Manuel Almunia has expressed his desire to play international football, and it could be the famed England number one jersey the Gunners stopper pulls on.

The 30-year-old is yet to be capped by Spain and qualifies for UK Citizenship next year, and Almunia has frequently expressed his desire to represent the Three Lions - yet he has not ruled out playing for his native Spain.

The former Celta Vigo man has ousted Jens Lehmann as first choice keeper at the Emirates, and he told Arsenal TV:

"I would like to keep going the way I am now,"

"In the future, if Spain do not call me then I have to look after myself and try to play international duty," he added.

New manager Fabio Capello has kept his cards close to chest with regard to team selection, so the new management line-up could provide Almunia with an international berth.

With Paul Robinson out-of-form and lacking in confidence, and Scott Carson enduring a torrid debut, the next England custodian has yet to be decided by the Italian. Ben Foster is also out injured, with Chris Kirkland and Robert Green being overlooked by the previous regime.

image - http://www.arsenalpies.tv/

The Mid-week Review

2008-01-16T11:12:00.000Z

By Danny Wright

FA Cup replay action was on offer week as footballing fare, with cash-strapped Luton Town traveling to Liverpool for a second stab at upstaging their Premiership opponents. However, there was to be no cup fairytale as a patched up side took the field for a 5-0 beating, captain for the night Jamie Carragher marking his 500th Liverpool appearance with a clean sheet. With veteran midfielder Don Hutchinson filling in at centre back, the Hatters held firm for 44 minutes only for Ryan Babel to rattle home a powerful drive. It was all Liverpool in the second half and Steven Gerrard scored his first of three after 51 minutes with a close range header, meanwhile Sammi Hyypia added another and Gerrard side-footed home his second. Luton look bewildered and they were to be further punished by Gerrard's clinical finish, the Reds booking a fourth round tie with Havant & Waterlooville, who defeated Swansea 4-2 at West Leigh Park in a historic game for the non-leaguers.

Luton's preparation for the clash was marred by manager Kevin Blackwell's resignation, who is still fuming at the sale of players behind his back. The former Leeds man accused the owners of having "the morals of a back alley cat" and Blackwell has set a provisional date of February 9th for his departure. Things have looked up slightly though for the London club, a consortium lead by television presenter Nick Owen agreeing to buy the relegation-threatened club. It was also revealed today League One outfit Bournemouth are in finical peril, reports on the club officials website saying they intend to appoint administrators to help lift the burden of a £4m dent. Should the Cherries go into administration a 10 point penalty deduction would be incurred.

On a more positive note there was good news for League Two side Bury on Tuesday night, who felled Championship side Norwich 2-1 at Gigg Lane. A defensive mix up allowed journeyman defender Ben Futcher to side-foot home, and talisman Andy Bishop was on hand to double the advantage with a smart finish. Warhorse Dion Dublin reduced the arrears for the Canaries, and fellow veteran Gary Doherty couldn't connect to a teasing cross, as the Shakers held on for a historic win. They now travel to Southampton in the Fourth Round.

Newcastle welcomed new manager Kevin Keegan with a resounding 4-1 over Stoke at Saint James Park. Having stuttered against Tony Pulis' Championship side in the first leg, Newcastle responded in the perfect fashion, Michael Owen opening the scoring from close range. Claudio Cacapa headed home for 2-0 and James Milner and Damien Duff completed the rout. Liam Lawerence was on the score sheet for the Potters, his 20-yard-strike coming after Emre's dismissal for a lunge on visiting skipper John Eustace.

Tottenham defeated Reading at the Madejski on Tuesday night, Robbie Keane's solitary goal enough to see off an under strength Royals side. The decisive goal came after 15 minutes, Keane stabbing home Younes Kaboul's rebounded effort. Spurs could have added to their lead, by were twice denied by the acrobatics of stand-in keeper Adam Federici. In the other all Premiership tie, Manchester City beat West Ham thanks to Elano's header 18 minutes from time.

West Brom and Charlton played out an entertaining replay which was decided on penalty, the hosts progressing 4-3 from the spot after a 2-2 draw in normal time. The Baggies had raced into a two goal lead from Roman Bednar and James Morrison but Darren Ambrose and Chris Dickson took the game to extra time. Dean Kiely thwarted Zheng Zi's effort, and Bednar won the tie with his coolly-taken effort.

Three of Tuesday's ties fell foul to the weather, but League One rivals Millwall were able to defeat Walsall 2-1 at the New Den, Ben May and Gary Alexander doing enough to see off the Saddlers. An individual effort from Simon Johnson saw off Tranmere for Hereford, 1-0 the score at Edgar Street.

images - bbc.co.uk/sport

New glove launch @ great-save.com

2008-01-16T10:58:00.000Z

By Martin Sanders

Today myself and great-save.com are pleased to be able to bring you a brand new Exclusive.

We have had made limited numbers of the Sells Adhesion Ultra Wrap (SubZero) in junior sizes. Now available for the 1st time in sizes 6 & 7 great-save.com is the only place to buy this glove in junior sizes.

great-save.com prides itself in being the UK's best and only stop for junior goalkeepers. Over the past 4 years myself and the great-save.com team have worked closely with major brands as well as parents and junior keepers to bring you gloves which you want. During 2008 great-save.com myself and the team will be working closely with you the customers to know what you want to see from the major brands. Any comments and ideas please email me at martin@great-save.com all your feed-back is welcome.

The Sells Adhesion Ultra Wrap (SubZero) has become one of our best selling Sells glove styles of the season so far.

The gloves offers the young junior keeper a 4mm Adhesion Ultra Latex palm for optimal grip in wet conditions. The backhand has embossed latex with icebloc lining for cold conditions with a roll finger cut a wrap over thumb this gloves looks set to be one of the best junior gloves of 2008

Ward In Border Move

2008-01-16T10:52:00.000Z

By Danny Wright

Sunderland goalkeeper Darren Ward has been linked with a move to Scottish club Rangers.

Reports in today's Daily Express say the SPL giants are lining up a move for the Welsh stopper.

Ward signed for Sunderland in August 2006 after being released by Norwich and helped the Black Cats to promotion to the Premiership, where he made his top flight debut last December in a 1-0 win over Derby.

The 33-year-old had displaced club record signing Craig Gordon as Roy Keane's number one, but has since lost his place to the Scottish incumbent.

image - http://www.4thegame.com/

Transfer speculation: Robert Green to Tottenham Hotspur ?

2008-01-16T10:36:00.000Z

By Martin Sanders

New Spurs manger Juande Ramos is on the hunt for a new keeper and it has emerged that Robert Green of West Ham who wears the brand new Sells Adhesion Ultra Wrap Aqua which is now on sale at great-save.com has become a £6million target for the london club to replace Paul Robinson. The England hopeful has been doing well at West Ham and certainly looks like the most likely option for Fabio Capello when he names his England squad in early Febuary for his 1st game as England manger.
Over the past two seasons he’s seen off the competition of Roy Caroll and, away from too much pressure, he’s been putting in a series of solid displays. Ramos has had Green watched over the last month and is now deciding whether to test the Hammers’ resolve with a bid which could be made later this week. The two keepers have had contrasting seasons with Robbo who has been wearing the Nike T90 Gunn Cut being dropped by both England and Tottenham, Green has been outstanding this season. Green, 27 signed a new deal last year and great-save.com sources tell us he is happy at Upton Park.
Hammers boss Curbishley will pull out all the stops to keep him after being made aware of interest by other clubs.

Tigers Duke in Tumour Op

2008-01-15T10:36:00.000Z

By Danny Wright

Hull City goalkeeper Matt Duke has had a testicular tumour removed.

The 30-year-old recently discovered the tumour and is recuperating following the surgery, and the former Burton Albion man is awaiting test results which are due this week.

Duke signed a contract extension earlier this season keeping him at the KC Stadium till 2010, having been Phil Brown's first choice keeper ahead of Boaz Myhill on Humberside, however a recent injury has kept him out of the side.

Hull chairman Paul Duffen posted a message on the club's official website informing Tigers supporters of the news and wishing the stopper a speedy recovery.

image - sporthull.co.uk

The Weekend Round-up

2008-01-13T21:04:00.000Z

By Danny Wright

Manchester United compounded a sorry week for Newcastle by thumping the Magpies 6-0 at Old Trafford, all the goals coming in the second half. Wing-wizard Ronaldo was the architect to the visitor’s downfall, his hat-trick helping United to establish a lead before Carlos Tevez bagged a brace and Rio Ferdinand (sic) sealed the win. To make things worse for Newcastle, they had Alan Smith sent off for a late bout of much-needed dissent. The thrashing comes as a much needed wake-up call for Toon fans - their lofty ambitions and sky-high expectations proving pivotal in the dismissal of another unfortunate manager.

No wonder Harry Redknapp turned the job down, yet he was still in the North East on Sunday – to see his Portsmouth side succumb to a 2-0 defeat at Sunderland, Kieran Richardson’s brace (sic) sinking hapless Pompey. Elsewhere at the bottom, Wigan defeated bottom club Derby 1-0 at Pride Park, Antoine Sibierski the scorer, meanwhile Roy Hodgson’s Fulham reign went from bad to worse as they were sunk by West Ham, 2-1 the final result. The Cottagers now lie five points behind 17th place Wigan in 19th, with Derby even further behind the Latics with just 7 points amassed from 22 games.

Reading remain in the relegation quagmire, despite lying in 13th, losing 3-1 at Aston Villa. John Carew and Martin Lauren headed home from set-plays to effectively end the contest 55 minutes in, with Carew notching his second late in the day. James Harper responded for the Royals, but it was scant consolation. Middlesborough dropped two points in a 1-1 draw with Liverpool at the Riverside; however it will be the home side who will be happier with the result, ‘under-pressure’ manager Gareth Southgate getting his tactics right to unsettle the Reds and take the lead through George Boateng. Liverpool were able to escape with a point though, Fernando Torres’ great strike almost busting the net as the Reds title hopes faded further still.

Birmingham picked up an unlikely point away at high-flying Arsenal, Gary O’Connor’s deflected header proving decisive in thwarting the potential champions. Arsene Wenger’s men looked like they would win at a canter, but the Blues had other ideas as Maik Taylor twice thwarted the Gunners with good saves. Even a controversial penalty – scored by Emmanuel Adebayor – couldn’t keep Alex McLeish’s men down.

Jason Roberts’ last minute winner cruelly denied struggling Bolton a point against local rivals Blackburn at the Reebok. The Trotters began life without talisman Nikolas Anelka and looked lacklustre in a game of few chances and even less quality, however skipper Kevin Nolan – unbelievably jeered by his own supporters – answered the calls for some class when he volleyed home a superb strike to give his side the lead. Christopher Samba’s header caught Jussi Jaaskelainen in no mans land for the equaliser, with super sup Roberts on hand to fashion a last minute solo effort to earn a 2-1 win.

Anelka’s new club Chelsea had no such trouble dispatching Tottenham at the Bridge, Julio Belletti’s humdinger of a shot finding the top corner of the net, with Shaun Wright-Phillips firing in the winner. ‘Le Sulk’ made a cameo appearance, rattling the bar and forcing Radek Cerny into a smart save.

Everton’s David Moyes marked his tenth anniversary in football management with a 1-0 win over Manchester City, Joleon Lescott making amends for his howler at Chelsea in mid-week with the winner to send the Toffees into fifth. Liverpool will be looking over their shoulder nervously – Everton, Aston Villa and City all on equal points as the ‘lesser’ clubs vie for a Champions League berth.

Robinson Speculation Grows

2008-01-12T23:32:00.000Z

By Danny Wright

Axed Tottenham goalkeeper Paul Robinson has been making the headlines this weekend as he has been linked with moves away from the London club following his demotion to the bench for Wednesday's Carling Cup Semi-final at Arsenal .

Robinson cut a grim figure on the Emirates dug out, new manager Jaunde Ramos preferring to start with Radek Cerny in goal. The axed keeper also refused to partake in the teams warm up for the clash.

The decision has fuelled speculation Robinson will leave the club, the England stopper coming under scrutiny for a series of errors throughout the season, the latest of which saw him carry a Stephen Hunt free-kick over his own goal line in last week's 2-2 draw against Reading.

According to the Daily Mail, the 28-year-old demanded a move away from White Hart Lane following talks with club officials in the aftermath of the 1-1 draw against the Gunners, meanwhile the Independent reported that Robinson has been told he can leave the club by Ramos, as long as Spurs receive £5m for his services.

The Sun also reported that West Ham goalkeeper Robert Green has been lined up to replace Robinson should he leave the club, with the Hammers wanting £6m for the former Norwich man.

Radek Cerny started in Spurs 2-0 defeat to Chelsea today, and performed admirably, making a couple of great saves to keep his side in the match. Should Robinson exit Tottenham, Ramos has prodigy Tommy Forecast on the books to provide cover for Cerny, the academy graduate touted as a future England international.

images - http://www.whoateallthepies.tv/

Enckelman Joins Bluebirds

2008-01-11T09:35:00.000Z

By Danny Wright

Blackburn Rovers goalkeeper Peter Enckelman has joined Championship outfit Cardiff City on loan.

The Finnish international has been brought in to replace Kasper Schmeichel, who has returned to Manchester City following a loan spell at the Welsh club.

Enckelman has made just Premier League two starts for Rovers, having signed from Aston Villa for £150,000 four years ago.

image - football.co.uk

Apologies

2008-01-10T20:58:00.000Z

Great Save readers,

I would just like to apologise for the lack of posts on the blog of late - due to technical difficulties my computer hasn't been too good and thus I haven't been able to post. Normal service will be resumed and the Weekend and Mid-week Round-ups will be back next week as per usual.

Also in 2008 you can expect some great features on the site... so watch this space!

We hope all our readers had a pleasent festive season, and best wishes for 2008.

Kind Regards,

Danny.

Robbos Spurs future in the balance

2008-01-10T15:14:00.000Z

England & Tottenham's Paul Robinson's future at Spurs has been thrown into doubt after he was dropped from last nights Carling Cup semi-final draw with Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.
Spurs manager Juande Ramos opted for Radek Cerny instead of England keeper Robinson, prompting reports of an argument between the two men before last nights game.
After the game Ramos insisted he dropped Robinson to give Cerny a opportunity in goal.

Although the Spaniard has said nothing should be read into his decision to relegate Robinson, he could keep faith in Czech keeper Cerny for Saturday's visit to Stamford Bridge.

"We haven't decided yet if he (Robinson) will play on Saturday," said Ramos. "He is a good goalkeeper which he has demonstrated with his career so far, we all know what a good goalkeeper he is. "There are 24-25 players in the squad and they all have to play at some point and make the most of the minutes they have on the pitch.
"All of the players are important, all are considered and I choose who I think is best for each match. Only 11 can play."
Robinson's form has taken a significant dip this season, having made several high-profile errors for club and country.
The latest occurred in Tottenham's 2-2 draw with Reading in the FA Cup third round encounter.
The 28-year-old caught Stephen Hunt's free-kick but carried it over the goalline to give the visitors the lead.

Manuel is Fab for Three Lions

2008-01-08T12:16:00.000Z

EX Arsenal legend Martin Keown reckons Arsenal's Manuel Almunia could be the answer to Fabio Capello’s goalkeeping problems.
Keown, who won 43 caps for England told THE SUN newspaper, he would have no problem with the Spaniard pulling on our No1 shirt when he becomes eligible for British citizenship later this year.
The tough-tackling ex-defender said: “Without doubt Manuel Almunia is an outstanding goalkeeper and he would raise the bar if he came into the England set-up.
“He’s on a par, if not better, than the goalkeepers that are there at the moment.”
England’s current No1 Paul Robinson has come in for stinging criticism following a string of errors, while Scott Carson and David James have also blundered at the top level.
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has already urged Capello to take advantage of the residency ruling and make 30-year-old Almunia England’s first-choice stopper.
And the man himself has refused to rule out the possibility of playing for the Three Lions, saying: “England has been very good to me.
"I have to be here one more year to qualify so we will have to wait and see what happens.”
Keown believes the FA should be happy to recognise Almunia as a naturalised Englishman.
He added: “If you’re asking whether it’s morally right, well the national team has a foreign manager and this type of thing already goes on in other sports like cricket and rugby.
"So I’m not dead against him playing for England when he becomes eligible.
“At the moment the talk is a bit premature — he’s been outstanding for Arsenal but he’s only just wrestled the first-team jersey away from Jens Lehmann.
“But if the opportunity came up for him to play for England, I’d not have a problem with that. Spain don’t seem to want him so their loss would be our gain.”

ARSENAL legend Martin Keown reckons Manuel Almunia is the answer to Fabio Capello’s goalkeeping problems.
Keown, who won 43 caps for England, would have no problem with the Spaniard pulling on our No1 shirt when he becomes eligible for British citizenship later this year.
The tough-tackling ex-defender said: “Without doubt Manuel Almunia is an outstanding goalkeeper and he would raise the bar if he came into the England set-up.
“He’s on a par, if not better, than the goalkeepers that are there at the moment.”
England’s current No1 Paul Robinson has come in for stinging criticism following a string of errors, while Scott Carson and David James have also blundered at the top level.
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has already urged Capello to take advantage of the residency ruling and make 30-year-old Almunia England’s first-choice stopper.
And the man himself has refused to rule out the possibility of playing for the Three Lions, saying: “England has been very good to me.
"I have to be here one more year to qualify so we will have to wait and see what happens.”
Keown believes the FA should be happy to recognise Almunia as a naturalised Englishman.
He added: “If you’re asking whether it’s morally right, well the national team has a foreign manager and this type of thing already goes on in other sports like cricket and rugby.
"So I’m not dead against him playing for England when he becomes eligible.
“At the moment the talk is a bit premature — he’s been outstanding for Arsenal but he’s only just wrestled the first-team jersey away from Jens Lehmann.
“But if the opportunity came up for him to play for England, I’d not have a problem with that. Spain don’t seem to want him so their loss would be our gain.”

Manuel Almunia wears Nike Mercurial Vapor Grip III now available online to buy at great-save.com

Source www.thesun.co.uk

Boruc reveals £10m get-out

2008-01-08T12:05:00.000Z

Artur Boruc has revealed that he will be allowed to leave Celtic if any club bids £10million for him.
The Polish star signed a new long-term contract last week as the likes of Milan and Arsenal showed a strong interest.
The goalkeeper penned a three-year extension at Celtic Park, but he has now revealed that he could still leave if a big offer comes in.
£10million
''If somebody will pay about £10million, I can depart. Both parties are satisfied," Boruc told Gazeta Wyborcza.
''Besides, I had proposals from other clubs in the newspapers only. I did not have concrete offers.
''I did not want to burn bridges with Celtic. If I have to part sometime, then it will be on normal principles.
''I am satisfied and signed this contract in order that the champions of Scotland profits from it also.''
Asian bid
Meanwhile, Celtic are being tipped to land Japanese starlet Koki Mizuno.
The 22-year-old international is rated as one of the finest young players in Asia and has been likened to Celtic's own Shunsuke Nakamura.
Celtic are reported to have agreed terms with Mizuno's club JEF United and could seal a deal this week.

Posh break record to sign keeper

2008-01-08T12:03:00.000Z

Peterborough United have broken their transfer record to sign goalkeeper Joe Lewis from Norwich for a £400,000 fee.
The 20-year-old has agreed a four-and-a-half-year deal.
"I feel we have signed one of the most promising goalkeepers in the country," Posh boss Darren Ferguson told his club's website.
Lewis did not play a senior game for Norwich after coming through the youth scheme but enjoyed a successful loan spell at Morecambe earlier this season.

Source www.bbc/sport

Issue 3 competition winner

2008-01-02T14:40:00.002Z

Toady at great-save.com we have made the draw for the winner of the signed Ben Foster match gloves. After 1000's of entries we are pleased to announce the winner is Kirstie Kay. Kirstie was entered into the competition by her father Ted who told us she is the only lady Goalkeeper amongst 40 men at brooklands collage Weybridge Surrey. Well done Kirstie a parcel is on the way to you with the signed gloves by Ben Foster the Manchester United and England stopper.

The Answer to the question against which team did Ben Foster make his England debut it was Spain.

Ben is at the moment making great progress in his come back from injury and hopes to be back playing again soon.

Ben joined Manchester United from Stoke City in July 2005, before making a single first-team appearance at the Britannia Stadium. He was then sent out on loan to Watford. Ben was a vital part of the Hornets' promotion to the Premiership, and repaid the faith shown in him by Adrian Boothroyd during an incredible season at Vicarage Road.On 26 May 2006, Ben capped a remarkable season when he was called on to the England standby list for the World Cup.Ben agreed to remain on-loan at Watford for the 2006/7 season and had a wonderful season, Ben was soon handed a England call up by the then England manger Steve Mclaren where Ben played the full 90 minutes in a friendly V Spain at Villa Park.

Ben Foster wears the Sells Adhesion Ultra Wrap Aqua which has become the best selling glove the season so far at great-save.com for more on this glove visit www.great-save.com

Issue 3

2008-01-02T14:40:00.001Z

Van der Sar Extends United Stay

2007-12-22T14:25:00.000Z

By Danny Wright

Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar has signed a one year contract extension.

The 37-year-old was expected to retire after next summer's European Championships, however the Dutch stopper has agreed a deal that will keep him at the club till June 2009.

Van der Sar will now face Ben Foster in a tussle for the United number one shirt, with the later currently on his way back from a lengthy knee injury.

Manager Sir Alex Ferguson believes the competetion will be a good thing for the club.

"He is the number one at the moment, so he has a chance being number one next season, but obviously Ben Foster will be back from injury next year, so that's great for competition," Ferguson told Sky Sports News.

"You can't guarantee players a position and say that they are definitely going to be in your team. I'm sure Edwin will want to be number one though,"

"That's why he signed his contract. I'm also sure that Ben will give him a good challenge," he added.

image - http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/

The Mid-week Review

2007-12-19T22:26:00.000Z

By Danny Wright

Carling Cup quarter finals were completed over the mid-week period to warm us up for the jam-packed festive football fare coming up in the next few weeks. The Christmas crackers began at Eastlands where Tottenham overcame Manchester City in a fiery, controversial encounter. Jermaine Defoe – making a rare start in Robbie Keane’s absence – rounded off a neat passing move to give Spurs the lead; however the out-of-favour England man was substituted after just 20 minutes following Didier Zokora’s sending off. The Ivorian lunged at City playmaker Elano with two feet and studs showing, and despite taking the ball and avoiding contact, Steve Bennett hastily brandished a red card. What smacked of double standards was Steed Malbranque’s horror challenge on Corluka went unpunished, the tackle seemingly worse than his colleague’s challenge moments earlier. The numerical advantage favoured City who piled forward in search of an equaliser, however they were to be denied by two fantastic saves from Paul Robinson, the England man foiling Darius Vassell and Bianchi. This left the Blues exposed at the back in the later stages and when Belgian star Dimitar Berbatov and Jamie O'Hara combined to set Malbranque away, the Frenchman finished the game with a cool finish. The win ended Sven’s 100% home record, and Spurs now face bitter rivals Arsenal in the semi final.

Arsenal overcame their North West away day jitters to see off Blackburn 3-2 after extra time at Ewood Park. Arsene Wenger’s young guns showed a gritty side not usually associated with the Gunners to earn the win, and the youngsters looked like winning the tie comfortably when they took a quick-fire lead through Abou Diaby and Eduardo. However, Roque Santa Cruz rallied for Rovers, the Paraguayan grabbing two goals of his own to level the tie. Denilson saw red for a horror challenge on David Dunn, the tackle another example of the worrying increase of rash tackles being made of late. The visitor’s weren’t dettered though as Eduardo finished off a slick passing move in added time to send the Gunner’s through.

Chelsea cruised past Liverpool to book their place in the semi-finals, the holders never really breaking sweat to beat Rafa Benetiz’s side. Frank Lampard atoned for an earlier miss with a deflected goal; meanwhile Crouch saw red, for yet another ill-mannered challenge, this time Jon Obi Mikel feeling the force of some over-zealous defensive work. Lampooned striker Andriy Shevchenko book a semi-final date with Everton, his goal sealing the win in the 90^th minute as the League Cup winners took a step closer to retaining their crown.

Chelsea’s semi-final opponents Everton take on AZ Alkmaar on Thursday night in the UEFA Cup, with David Moyes leaving out senior stars Tim Howard, Mikel Arteta, Tim Cahill, Yakubu and Joseph Yobo. The Toffees are in a rich vein of form at the moment and have already qualified as Group A winners, so Moyes decided to leave his main men at home ahead of the trip to the Netherlands. The hosts need a win to progress.

Bolton qualified to the knock-out stages of the UEFA Cup thanks to Bayern Munich’s 6-0 demolition of Salonika, but the Trotters slip to third following Braga’s 2-0 win over Red Star Belgrade, which now means Bolton now face one of the group stage winners in the last 32.

Semi-Final Draw:

Chelsea v Everton
Arsenal v Tottenham

Ties to be played across two legs, week commencing 7^th and 21^st January.

images - www.bbc.co.uk/sport

The Weekend Round-up

2007-12-16T23:13:00.000Z

by Danny Wright

‘Grand Slam Sunday’ turned out to be a tepid, cagey occasion in which there were wins for Manchester United and Arsenal, defeating Liverpool and Chelsea by a 1-0 score line respectively, the football on show somewhat undermining the hyperbole pumped out by Sky over the past week. In a gritty encounter on a glum Merseyside Carlos Tevez effort was enough to sink Liverpool, meanwhile William Gallas’ header against his former club punished Peter Cech’s error to give the Gunners the win. In fairness, the Arsenal Chelsea encounter was a far more engrossing fare, with Cech compensating for his earlier error and Manuel Almunia pulling out the stops to help Wenger’s men earn the win. John Terry is set out be for a spell on the sidelines, the England captain on the receiving end of a cynical Emmanuel Eboue challenge.

The weekend’s more entertaining games were reserved for Saturday’s football, with Wigan and Blackburn sharing an incredible eight goals at the JJB Stadium, the home side coming up trumps with a 5-3 win. Denny Landzaat got the ball rolling after just ten minutes meanwhile Marcus Bent headed his first of three. Paul Scharner then nodded the Latics into dream land and put them 3-0 up, however the game was far from over despite a Benni McCarthy penalty miss thanks to the efforts of Roque Santa Cruz, who’s superb hat-trick gave Rovers a lifeline. The drama was just beginning though as Mark Clattenburg controversially sent off Brett Emerton and the ref’s assistants failed to a spot a suspicion of offside in the build up to Bent’s second. The Everton man then sealed the win and gave manager Steve Bruce his first three points as Wigan manager.

A further six goals were shared at Eastlands where Manchester City preserved their 100% home record in the Premier League by beating Bolton 4-2. Rolando Bianchi punished some slack Bolton defending to give City the lead but the nation’s favourite El Hadj Diouf levelled. Kevin Nolan notched an excellent goal to give Bolton the lead however City were determined not to blemish their home copy book as Didi Hamann’s effort deflected in off Lubo Michalik, and the Blues retook the lead when Darius Vassell scored. The visitors’ pushed hard for a leveller and were always vulnerable to the counter-attack and their lax defending cost them dear as Kelvin Etuhu’s late effort sealed the win.

Everton beat West Ham for the second time in a week as Yakubu and Andy Johnson combined to sink the unlucky Hammers, 2-0 the final sore at the Boleyn Ground, meanwhile Tottenham picked up a much needed win at Portsmouth thanks to Dimitar Berbatov’s strike. The goal was Berbatov’s first since October and Spurs’ first away win of the season.

Middlesborough lifted the “pressure” surrounding manager Gareth Southgate by notching their second win on the spin, Derby on the receiving end of a thumping Tuncay effort in a 1-0 win at Pride Park. The defeat leaves the Rams propping up the league, Paul Jewell’s men trailing 19th place Wigan by six points. Fulham’s festive prospects also look bleak as they were sunk by a late Joey Barton penalty that gave Newcastle a priceless win. A dour affair came into life when Elliot Omozusi was adjudged to have fouled Alan Smith in the 90th minute, controversial midfielder Barton scoring his first goal for the club.

Sunderland came close to unearthing a much needed win but were foiled by Shaun Maloney’s sublime free-kick as Aston Villa snatched a point in a 1-1 draw. Craig Gardiner was lucky to be on the pitch after a horror challenge on Dwight Yorke, the Villa midfielder kon-fu-kicking the T&T start right in the midriff - referee Steve Bennett deemed a caution sufficient punishment. Danny Higginbottom headed the Black Cats in front but Maloney rescued a point when his set-piece wrong footed keeper Darren Ward, although manager Roy Keane will be furious the way Paul McShane needlessly conceded the decisive free-kick.

Birmingham found Marcus Hahnemann an impenetrable force as Alex McLeish’s men could only draw 1-1 with Reading. Mikel Forssell bundled his way through after four minutes but the Blues couldn’t get past the big American, who saved from Cameron Jerome to keep the scores level. The woodwork also denied Birmingham who were denied by Stephen Hunt’s penalty kick.

images - bbc.co.uk/sport

The Mid-week Review

2007-12-12T12:00:00.000Z

By Danny Wright

Liverpool completed a miraculous turn around of their Champions League fortunes to qualify for the knock out stages. A 4-0 win over Marseille on Tuesday night saw the Reds qualify in second place in Group A, a situation that seemed far from likely three weeks ago as Liverpool languished fourth in the group with just one point to their name. A ferocious start from both sides saw the challenges go flying in and the game rose to a boil, however Steven Gerrard's spot kick settled the visitors and there was no looking back from then on; Fernando Torres showed great poise and power to score a superb individual goal, meanwhile Dirk Kuyt notched a third to put Liverpool is cruise control. Ryan Babel capped a terrific display with a fourth goal to send the Reds through in style.

Rangers crashed into the UEFA Cup places with a disappointing home defeat to Lyon. Needing just a point to qualify, things got off to a disastrous start when the visitors took the lead through Sidney Govou, who finished from close range. Lyon came with the intention to attack and did just that by spurning further chances, sealing the game with two late strikes from Karim Benzema. The UEFA Cup provides some consolation for Rangers; however Walter Smith's men will be bitterly disappointed with their fate having amassed 7 points from their opening three games.

Arsenal beat Steaua Bucharest 2-1 at the Emirates but still managed to finish second in Group H. Jens Lehmann made a rare start for the Gunners who had one eye on Sunday's clash with Chelsea, making a handful of changes that meant Arsene Wenger's fringe players were given a run-out; the second string didn't disappoint as they took the lead through Abou Diaby and Nicklas Bendtner added a second. Steaua offered little but mustered a consolation through Dorel Zaharia.

A much changed Manchester United side drew 1-1 with Roma; however off the field incidents marred the encounter as five visiting United fans were stabbed in violent exchanges prior to the clash. Trouble erupted in both legs of the tie in April of this year, but reports claim things inside the stadium were comparatively calm this time around. The composure in the stands transferred onto the pitch as a dull first half was ignited by Gerard Pique’s goal, the Spaniard's second Champions League goal. Mancini thumped home a leveler in the second half as Roma then hit the woodwork, however the result will seem some irrelevant in light of the violent clashes outside the Stadio Olimpico.

Chelsea completed their group games with a tepid 0-0 draw against Valencia. Avram Grant's men wasted a handful of chances and were denied by a combination of visiting keeper Santiago Canizares and the woodwork; the Spaniard denied Frank Lampard, Andriy Shevchenko and Claudio Pizarro meanwhile Joe Cole hit a post and Solomon Kalou rattled an effort against the cross-bar when it seemed easier to score. It mattered little though as Valencia seldom threatened Peter Cech's goal, with the Blues already safely through to the next stage.

In the solitary Carling Cup tie taking place on Wednesday, Everton snatched a semi-final berth from West Ham right at the death. Carlton Cole scored a rare goal to put the Hammers in the lead, but the Toffees responded through Leon Osman and hitman Yakubu capitalised on a horrible mix-up between Rob Green and Danny Gabbidon to give Everton the win in the 88th minute, 2-1 the final score.

Also on the domestic scene, five FA Cup second round replays took place on Tuesday night, with Midlands outfit Chasetown upsetting Port Vale 1-0 in what proved to be the shock of the round. Luke Rodgers missed two penalties - blazing one high over the bar and having the second saved by Lee Evans - as Vale dominated, however in a rare foray forward Danny Smith headed a historic goal for the non-league side, who now take on Cardiff at the Scholars Ground in the next round.

Elsewhere, Southend dispatched Oxford with a 3-0 win and Walsall come up trumps in the all-League Two affair, defeating Northampton 1-0 at the Bescott. Barnet ended Burton Albion's cup dreams - beating Nigel Clough's men 1-0 at Underhill - and cash-strapped Luton picked up a much-needed win over Nottingham Forest to earn a third round berth and a January pay-day against Liverpool on the Sky cameras; the Hatters players' haven't been paid for several weeks and the 1-0 triumph over Forest will provide a £250,000 windfall for the club come the new year.

Three Championship matches were on the menu on Tuesday night as strugglers QPR picked up a vital three points Burnley, 2-0 the final score at Turfmoor, with Cardiff beating Blackpool 1-0. Ipswich extended their impressive home record with a 3-1 win over Leicester.

images - www.bbc.co.uk/sport

Bye Bye Boruc

2007-12-11T15:21:00.000Z

By Danny Wright

Celtic goalkeeper Artur Boruc has revealed he wants to leave the club in the summer.

The Polish international's contract runs out in 2009 but reports in the Herald claim Boruc plans to leave sooner.

“I have decided I am going to leave Celtic in the summer,”

“Celtic want more than £10million for me but I think it is too much,” he added.

Boruc is currently out of the side due to a knee injury, however an operation on the injury has proved to be a successful one and the 27-year-old is targeting the Old Firm derby against Rangers on January 2nd as his return match.

“The operation went very well and I should be back next month,”

"I cannot say for certain that I will be back for the game against Rangers but I will try really hard to be back in time because I enjoy playing in these games.”

image - soccerfiesta.net

The Weekend Round-up

2007-12-09T22:17:00.000Z

by Danny Wright

Liverpool were upset by a buoyant Reading side at the Madejski. With one eye on Tuesday’s crunch clash with Marseille, Liverpool were all at sea as a much changed side – fielding youngster Jack Hobbs at centre half – slumped to defeat. It was Hobbs’ experienced partner Jamie Carragher who was found wanting at the early stages though as he karate-kicked Brynjar Gunnarsson to give Reading a penalty. There were questions as to whether the foul take place in or outside the box, but Stephen Hunt had no such qualms about dispatching the resultant spot-kick, the Liverpool players looking very non-plussed indeed. Steven Gerrard hauled the Reds level but the Royals seized the initiative in the second half with Kevin Doyle glancing past Pepe Reina, and James Harper rounding the beleaguered keeper to add a fine third. Gerrard almost burst into tears when he was substituted for Ryan Babel late in the day, the ‘world class’ midfielder seemingly thinking he is too good to be brought off; although Rafa Benetiz’s decision did seem a bizarre one when they were trying to get back into the game.

Newcastle picked up a much needed and a much deserved win over Birmingham. The Blues thought their dream start under the management of Alex McLeish was going to continue when a long ball forward was dispatched by Cameron Jerome, who caught out a flat footed David Rozehnal to take the lead. Newcastle weren’t deterred though, and, spurred on by boisterous (non-violent) support and Sam Allardyce’s funky head-gear; they chalked up an equaliser from Obefami Martins’ fortunate spot kick. The Magpies plugged away and it looked like their luck was out when James Milner rattled the cross bar, but they persevered and were rewarded in the final minute when Habib Beye nodded home from an Emre corner. The win comes as a big boost to Newcastle, who now have four points from two on the back of a useful draw against Arsenal.

Manchester United cruised past sorry Derby with a 4-1 win at a rainy Old Trafford. Ryan Giggs scored his 100th league goal to get the ball rolling; meanwhile Carlos Tevez hit a handy double to put the result beyond all doubt. Derby powerhouse Steve Howard bundled home his first Premiership goal, their first away from Pride Park this season but Ronaldo was on hand to dispatch a spot kick he won for himself with a dive. Chelsea cruised past Sunderland 2-0 at Stamford Bridge to keep up the pressure on United and leaders Arsenal, Andriy Shevchenko and Frank Lampard on hand to complete the win. The Black Cats had Liam Miller sent off and left record buy Craig Gordon on the bench in favour of 33-year-old veteran Darren Ward, with manager Roy Keane telling Gordon he is happy for the keeper to have a mid-season holiday – “as long as he doesn't go out in a canoe.”

Everton demolished sorry Fulham 3-0 at Goodinson Park to continue the Cottagers away day woes, the run extended to 25-games without a win. The classy Toffees carried on where they left off from Wednesday’s win over Zenit St Petersburg and put Fulham under lots of early pressure, forcing Anti Niemi into some outstanding saves to keep the scores level. The break through came in the second half though, Yakubu scoring his first of three goals with a tepid left foot effort that crawled over the line. The Nigerian hit man then struck again with a glancing header and the £11m buy completed his ‘perfect’ hat-trick with a text book finish. Lawrie Sanchez’s men seldom troubled the Everton goal, their only real chance coming from Danny Murphy whose shot was saved well by Tim Howard.

Aston Villa were defeated 3-1 by Portsmouth at Villa Park, but Martin O’Neil’s men can feel aggrieved that they didn’t get anything out of the game. Villa fell behind when Craig Gardner prodded past a beleaguered Scott Carson, who was no doubt going into cold sweats at the sight of Croat Niko Kranjcar. Martin Laursen must have also been feeling uneasy as he inexplicably headed wide two glorious chances to turn the game, as Sully Muntari thumped Pompey ahead with a delicious left footed strike. In fairness Villa dominated but couldn’t convert as Muntari struck again in the second half, a terrific hit finishing off a fine passing move to seal the game for Harry Redknapp and his men. Papa Bouba Diop entered the Miss of the Season competition as he failed to convert with the goal at his mercy; meanwhile Gareth Barry notched a late consolation with a belated penalty kick.

Arsenal went down to their first defeat of the season at Middlesborough, 2-1 the final score at the Riverside. The home side were in need of a win and they got just that when Gareth Southgate’s strugglers raised their game to stun a lacklustre Arsenal. Kolo Toure tripped Jermaine Aliadiere to give Boro a penalty, which Stuart Downing tucked home to send his side on their way. Tuncay grabbed his second goal in as many goals to hand Boro the fire, his shot finding the roof of the net as Tomas Rosicky notched a late consolation.

Bolton thrashed fellow strugglers Wigan at the Reebok 4-1 to lift Gary Megon’s men out of the bottom three. Paul Scharner gifted Lancashire rivals Bolton an early goal, the home side thinking Christmas had come very early indeed. Denny Landzaat looked to give the Latics a reprieve with an equaliser however the visitors soon capitulated in a scruffy game as Kevin Nolan, Kevin Davies and Nicolas Anelka killed the hand Megson a priceless three points.

And finally, Tottenham bounced back from their defeat to Birmingham by beating a descending Man City 2-1 and Dean Ashton’s tap in was enough for West Ham to beat Blackburn 1-0 at Ewood.

images - bbc.co.uk/sport

Almunia for England?

2007-12-07T10:34:00.000Z

By Danny Wright

Arsenal goalkeeper Manuel Almunia has not ruled out the possibility of playing for England.

The Spaniard has yet to be capped by his native country and could play for England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland if he were granted dual nationality.

The England number one is by no means set in stone at the moment following Paul Robinson's recent form and Scott Carson's shaky debut against Croatia in Euro 2008 qualifying, meaning the prestigious jersey is well and truly up for grabs.

"If I can lend England a hand once the time comes for me to be eligible - and I want to thank the country for the support it has shown me - I don't see why I shouldn't play for them. I don't rule it out," Almunia told El Mundo.

The 30-year-old has made 19 starts for Arsenal this season, and has kept a disgruntled Jens Lehmann out of the Gunners side following the Germans’ shaky start to the season.

Alumina arrived in England three years ago from Celta Vigo and is keen to repay the affection shown towards him by helping the national side.

"I would never close the door on people who have shown me so much affection," he added.

image - football.co.uk

Lehmann Must Leave Gunners - Kahn

2007-12-06T22:53:00.000Z

by Danny Wright

Bayern Munich goalkeeper Oliver Kahn has told rival Jens Lehmann he must leave Arsenal in order to resurrect his flagging international career.

Lehmann has been out of the Arsenal side since August, with Manuel Almunia deputising for the out-spoken German.

The 38-year-old has been linked with a move away from the Emirates, Bundesliga outfit Wolfsburg known to be interested in the former Borussia Dortmund stopper.

Lehmann has himself hinted at a move away from London and wants to be involved in Germany's Euro 2008 campaign; however Kahn doesn't believe that will happen if his rival doesn't play regular football.

“Jens Lehmann's services to the national team have been impeccable, but you can't play in a European Championship when you are not in the team," Khan told DSF.

Kahn and Lehmann have not seen eye-to-eye over the years and have enjoyed a well publicised duel for the national number one shirt, but it appears Kahn believes regular football will be good for his adversary, adding:

"That's why it would be best for him to go and play where he will be in the team."

image - sportinglife.com

The Mid-week Review

2007-12-06T13:22:00.000Z

by Danny Wright

Everton go through to the knock-out stages of the UEFA Cup after they beat Zenit St Petersburg 1-0 at a boisterous Goodison Park. The game was given extra spice following visiting manager’s Dick Advocat’s comments about the Toffees style of play, branding them a “long ball team” and “physical,” and David Moyes’ men refuted the claims perfectly as piled on the pressure from the early stages. The troublesome Mikel Arteta almost broke the deadlock after two minutes, his effort cleared on the line meanwhile Nicolas Lombaerts was harshly sent off for a suspicious looking handball. Arteta blazed the resulting spot kick over the bar but Everton weren’t deterred as the Spaniard brought the best out of Vyacheslav Malafeev from a free kick and Lee Casrley struck the upright.

Pavel Pogrebniak and Konstantin Zyrianov wasted good chances for Zenit as Everton struggled to break down the ten men of the Russian side in the second half, but the breakthrough finally came when Tim Cahill pounced on a lose ball from a corner. The result, combined with Nuremburg’s 2-1 win over AZ Alkmaar, means the Toffees go through as winners of Group A and avoid the Champions League fall-out in the new year.

On Tuesday night Celtic also progressed through to the next stage of their respective competition, a defeat in Milan enough to send into the knock out phase of the Champions League. Filippo Inzaghi’s record breaking strike was enough to condemn Celtic to a 1-0 defeat as AC looked to top the group with aplomb, dominating the encounter as the Bhoys held on. News of Benfica’s 2-1 over Shakhtar Donetsk filtered through the San Siro, and despite the defeat Celtic progressed in second place. The news provides a big boost to Scottish football, with rivals Rangers in a healthy position to qualify next week.

In the Premiership Newcastle turned the form book on its head to a snatch a useful point of high-flying Arsenal. On the back of back-to-back defeats to Blackburn and Liverpool respectively, Newcastle needed a result to lift the gloom around St James Park, however things couldn’t have got off to a wore start as Emmanuel Adebayor put the Gunners ahead after four minutes with a stunning volley. The home side rallied, and buoyed by a lively crowd, gradually came back into proceedings as Geremi and Charles N'Zogbia went close. The Newcastle hero proved to be an unlikely one as local lad Steven Taylor rescued a point with a fine low strike in the second half. The result provides under-fire manager Sam Allardyce with a much need reprieve, with the Magpies now facing winnable ties against Birmingham, Fulham and Derby in the next three weeks.

A win would have taken Arsenal six points clear at the top of the Premiership, and they will rue the missed opportunity as Manchester United beat Fulham at a canter on Monday night, Cristiano Ronaldo’s double proving enough to earn the win. Disappointingly for the Portuguese trickster, he was booked for diving following a clash with Cottagers keeper Anti Niemi.

Elsewhere across the land Championship action took centre stage, as Barnsley, Bristol City, Charlton, Watford, Norwich, Preston, Crystal Palace, Stoke and Coventry all picked up wins, with Blackpool tying with Scunthorpe on Monday night.

Tonight, Bolton take on Red Star Belgrade needing a win meanwhile Tottenham travel to Anderlecht in UEFA Cup action.

images - bbc.co.uk/sport

Harper & Given Reject Rift Claims

2007-12-04T14:14:00.000Z

by Danny Wright

Newcastle goalkeepers Steve Harper and Shay Given have rubbished claims regarding a rift between manager Sam Allardyce and senior players at the club.

Reports in the media had suggested key players at the club were planning a revolt, but the Magpies’ goalkeepers have poured cold water on the issue and say they are in full support of their manager.

“The story that has appeared is total and utter nonsense. Sam Allardyce has the full backing and support of every Newcastle United player and we are all working together as one to bring success to the football club,” the pair told Sky Sports News.

Newcastle are experiencing a lull in form of late despite making a good start to the season, and they face a tough test against Arsenal tomorrow on the back of defeats to Blackburn and Liverpool respectively.

This has inevitably lead to pressure being piled on Allardyce, who has been cited as the man to take the long-suffering club forward and bring silverware to St James Park.

The two also slammed claims about so-called ‘player power’ at the club, explaining communication between playing staff and the manager took place via a players committee.

"Far from that being "player power" or any other ridiculous description, this is sensible and constructive communication and a key part of the process of helping to build a stronger football club which will take us forward,”

"It is fair to say both of us are absolutely furious at what we have read today. It is mischief-making of the highest order and appears designed to unsettle everyone on the eve of our big game against Arsenal on Wednesday night."

image - viewimages.com

The Weekend Round-up

2007-12-02T22:07:00.000Z

by Danny Wright
The FA Cup Second Round got under way in earnest this weekend, and League Two Peterborough taught non-league Staines a lesson in finishing, 5-0 the final score at Wheatsheaf Park. Having dumped Stockport out in the last round, the hosts were in a confident mood ahead the visit of Posh, however their cup dreams soon crumbled as four goals from Craig Mackail-Smith helped Darren Ferguson’s men on their way to a healthy win. Shaun Allaway did his best to keep the score down by pulling off some fine saves, but it wasn’t enough as Aaron McLean sealed a comfortable win for Boro.

Bristol Rovers also hit five goals but they were given a real scare by Blue Square Premier (Conference) side Rusden and Diamonds at the Memorial Ground, a 50-yard cross-cum-shot from Marcus Kelly deceiving home keeper Steve Phillips to give Rusden the lead. The Pirates soon hit back though as the heavens opened, with Andy Williams, Craig Disley, Craig Hinton and a brace from Rickie Lambert completing a 5-1 win.

At the Coral Windows Stadium – that’s Valley Parade to me and you – Bradford succumbed to a convincing 3-0 defeat to Tranmere, meanwhile across Yorkshire Huddersfield dashed Grimsby’s hopes with a routine win by the same score. Hartlepool were left red-faced by giant-killing Hereford, 2-0 to the home side at Edgar Street as Havant and Waterlooville upset the apple-cart to beat Notts County 1-0 at Meadow Lane. It is the first time the non-league minnows have ever reached the Third Round proper.

Cambridge saw off Weymouth and Bury beat Exeter, Millwall, Brighton, Oldham and Dagenham and Redbridge also picking up wins to go into the Third Round pot. Elsewhere, replays are to be played between Burton Albion and Barnet, Northampton and Walsall and Oxford and Southend.

Harrogate Railway’s cup run came to on an end on the BBC cameras as they were defeated by Mansfield Town 3-2 at Station View. In an entertaining game the Stags took the lead through Gareth Jellyman with Michael Boulding increasing their advantage. Railway hit back though in the second half, Danny Davidson the scorer only for Boulding to strike away. Harrogate piled on the pressure and rewarded with another Davidson goal, but the visitor’s held on to book a Third Round date with Brighton & Hove Albion. Port Vale and Chasetown are set to replay after a 1-1 draw at Vale Park.

In the Premiership Aston Villa were defeated by the incumbent Arsenal at Villa Park, the visitors going five points clear at the top of the Premiership. Villa had taken a surprise early lead following Craig Gardner’s surprise effort but Mathieu Flamini hit back with a riffled effort, and powerhouse Emmanuel Adebayor nodded what proved to be the winner. The home side rallied in the second half and John Carew whacked the bar with a thumping header but the Gunners held on to claim a priceless away win.

Chelsea are next line behind the imperious Gunners after they beat West Ham 1-0 in a tight affair at Stamford Bridge. The Blues had Joe Cole to thank for the win as his tidy finish was enough to give Chelsea the points to lift Avram Grant’s men further up the table. Manchester United can leap frog Chelsea on Monday, should they beat Fulham at Old Trafford.

Wigan ended their eight-game loosing strike with a useful point against high-flying Manchester City. Steve Bruce’s reign couldn’t have got off to a worse start though when Titus Bramble’s miss-kick allowed Geovanni to stroll through and score after just thirty seconds. Paul Scharner saved the day for the Latics with a powerful first-half header as the home side had a loud penalty shout turned down, however they finished the game with ten men after Mario Melchoit lunged at Stephen Ireland.

Another new manager in the hot seat this weekend was Paul Jewell, who made his return to this week after being appointed Derby boss in light of Billy Davies’ sacking. There was to be no fairy tale start here either as the Rams went down to an unfortunate Antony Stokes goal at Sunderland, the young Irishman scrabbling home a headed effort that was brilliantly saved by Steven Bywater. Roy Keane made several changes to the side thrashed by Everton last week, including record buy Craig Gordon who had to be content with a place on the bench in place of Darren Ward.

Troubled Harry Redknapp couldn’t end the week on a high as his Portsmouth played out a dour stalemate against Everton. Reading and Middlesborough tied 1-1 at the Madejski, a near punch up between Royals Marcus Hahnemann and Ibrahima Sonko the only worthy incident of note.

David Bentley piled the misery on Newcastle and Sam Allardyce as Blackburn defeated a beleaguered United 3-1 at Ewood. Obefami Martins headed the Toon ahead but Bentley struck with two fine strikes to set Rovers on their way as Tugay sealed the win with a typically classy finished. The Magpies had chances but wasted them as their inability to defend cost them dear.
Liverpool cruised past Bolton to return to the top four, 4-0 the final score at Anfield meanwhile Birmingham upset Tottenham with a thrilling 3-2 win at White Hart Lane on Alex McLeish’s managerial debut for the Blues. Gary McSheffery put Birmingham ahead from the spot but two a quick fire double from Robbie Keane put Spurs in control. Keane’s joy then turned to pain as he was controversially sent off for a tackle on Fabrice Muamba and things got worse for Tottenham when Cameron Jerome slotted a tidy finish and Seb Larsson notched a terrific injury time winner.

images - bbc.co.uk/sport

Sorensen On His Way?

2007-12-01T15:10:00.001Z

by Danny Wright

Aston Villa goalkeeper Thomas Sorensen could be on his way to Middlesbrough in January, according to the Daily Mail.

The out-of-favour stopper has apparently turned down two German sides to pave the way for a move to Gareth Southgate's men in the upcoming transfer window.

The Dane - who has lost his place to on-loan Scott Carson - rejected a switch to Wolfsburg and another unknown Bundesliga outfit and now is believed to be on his way to Teeside to revive his faltering career.

Boro are currently without first choice Mark Schwarzer and back-up Brad Jones, so Sorensen's arrival could provide some much needed goalkeeping cover for Southgate's side.

Image - www.4thegame.com

Boro Without Schwarzer for Royals Clash

2007-11-29T20:11:00.000Z

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

2007-11-29T18:14:00.001Z

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

2007-11-29T12:11:00.000Z

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

2007-11-27T22:29:00.000Z

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

2007-11-27T15:44:00.000Z

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

2007-11-25T22:38:00.000Z

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

2007-11-24T22:32:00.000Z

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

2007-11-21T21:58:00.000Z

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

2007-11-19T16:10:00.000Z

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

2007-11-18T23:02:00.000Z

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

2007-11-17T13:27:00.000Z

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

2007-11-16T14:47:00.000Z

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

2007-11-15T16:02:00.000Z

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

2007-11-15T15:49:00.000Z

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?

2007-11-12T15:55:00.000Z

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.

image - wikimedia.org

The Weekend Round-up

2007-11-11T22:05:00.000Z

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.

images - bbc.co.uk/sport

Green doesn't make England Cut

2007-11-09T23:23:00.000Z

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

image - http://www.carling.com/

Cech Injury Blow for Blues

2007-11-08T11:42:00.000Z

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.

image - bbc.co.uk

The Mid-week Review

2007-11-08T11:18:00.000Z

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.

images - bbc.co.uk/sport

Wenger backs Almunia

2007-11-06T10:33:00.000Z

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."

image - carling.com

The Weekend Round-up

2007-11-04T22:19:00.000Z

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.

images - bbc.co.uk/sport

Coppell firm on Hahnemann Deal

2007-11-02T10:16:00.000Z

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

2007-11-01T11:12:00.000Z

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.

images - bbc.co.uk/sport

Uhlsport Aquasoft Ergonomic Moulded Glove Review

2007-10-31T16:21:00.000Z

With its striking blue and orange colour-way, it’s not difficult to miss Uhlsport’s flagship glove for the 2006/07 season. The developers at Uhlsport’s have been working overtime of late, and this glove is a prime example of how the company have come along over recent years.

Uhlsport’s first stroke of genius is the Aquasoft latex, the patented and exclusive latex that offers an amazing 40% more grip in wet conditions. The Aquasoft does the trick again and hasn’t let me down in any condition, this dispelling the frustrating myth that wet-weather latex’s don’t work in dry conditions.

Having used the gloves for two months (for six hours football a week), it has experienced the delightful variants of the British climate and has done a superb job, offering unrivalled grip throughout. The Ergonomic Moulded cut helped matters further, which makes those difficult catches that little bit easier.

Obviously the gloves felt at their best when the rain was pouring down and the ball in my hands felt very secure, so if it’s likely to rain in your neck of the woods then these are the gloves for you. Even more impressive was the fact that the gloves themselves are waterproof, thanks to High2Out technology (a breathable fabric membrane that is water and wind resistant) which means the gloves don’t take endless hours to dry after use.

The glove boasts an adjustable YCAP® TR flap, which gives a secure fitting but can be a little frustrating when the strap folds back on itself and leaves a little bit protruding over the Velcro. That said the glove remains nice and tight so there can be few complaints and purchase shouldn’t be discouraged, particularly when the glove is one of the most comfortable I have ever worn.

On the whole the glove does a terrific job, and excels in adverse conditions, making it a must for the winter months. At £59.99 the price may seem a little hefty, but it terms of quality and durability it is worth every penny.

Ratings:
Grip - 5
Durability – 5
Fastening – 3.5
Cosmetics - 4
Fitting/Comfort – 4
Overall – 4.5

Used by:
Heurelho da Silva Gomes (PSV Eindhoven, Netherlands)
Mathias Schober (Hansa Rostock, Germany)
Alvaro Mesén (LD Alajuelense, Costa Rica)
Edwin Villafuerte (Sociedad Deportivo Quito, Colombia)

Buy your Uhlsport Aquasoft Ergonomic Moulded gloves here, available with free personalisation.

Danny plays for Selby College in the English Colleges Football Association, a league set up to provide 16-19 year-olds nationally an alternative route into the professional game – for more information see www.ecfaleague.co.uk

The Weekend Review

2007-10-28T22:42:00.000Z

by Danny Wright

Gary Megon’s Bolton reign couldn’t get off to a winning start as they were held by Aston Villa at the Reebok, 1-1 the final score. Hotshot Nikolas Anelka fired the Trotters ahead with a superb free kick, but Luke Moore denied Megson a dream start. A shockingly low crowd was in attendance, only 18,413 brave souls making the effort to attend. Everton piled the misery on struggling Derby as goals from Mikel Arteta and Yakubu commended the Rams to a 2-0 defeat and a return to the bottom of the table, meanwhile news Spurs boss Jaunde Ramos couldn’t life his new recruits as Tottenham fell to a 2-1 defeat against Blackburn. Robbie Keane had given the home side the lead but Benni McCarthy and an injury time effort from Christopher Samba broke Spurs’ hearts as Brad Friedel’s heroics kept Spurs at bay.

At the other end of the table Arsenal reclaimed top shot as they snatched a point at Liverpool. Steven Gerrard scored after seven minutes as the Reds were indebted to the saves of Pepe Reina, who kept Arsenal out until the 80th minute when Cesc Fabregas poked home to rescue a point for the Gunners. Manchester United follow Arsenal close behind after their demolition of Middlesborough at Old Trafford, 41-1 the result after goals from Nani, Wayne Rooney and Carlos Tevez double cancelled out a Jeremie Aliadiere’s header.

Chelsea handed out a demolition of their own, Sven’s Manchester City on the receiving end of a 6-0 thumping at the Bridge. Frank Lampard was Chelsea’s catalyst in the first half as his assists helped them to a healthy 2-0 advantage at the break thanks to Didier Drogba and Michel Essein’s goals. Stephen Ireland and Martin Petrov went close for City but they couldn’t convert as Drogba netted a second, as Joe Cole, Andriy Shevchenko and Salomon Kalou added further goals to complete the rout. Despite the defeat City remain in third place meanwhile Chelsea climb into the Champions League places in fourth.

Birmingham and Wigan played out a thriller at St Andrews, 3-2 the final score in the Midlands to lift Steve Bruce’s spirits and impressive perspective owner Carson Yeung. Marcus Bent had thumped Wigan ahead but Olivier Kapo leveled from the spot only for Birmingham and Maik Taylor to shot themselves in the foot, their comical mix-up costing them dear as Bent netted his second. The Blues rallied though and Liam Ridgewell leveled with Kapo popping up late on to steal the show with a fine strike.

Robert Green did his England chances no harm at all as he put in a fine shift to earn West Ham a point at goal-shy Portsmouth. The former Norwich man made several crucial saves to keep his side in it before saving Benjani’s last minute penalty to ensure a point returned to London. Earlier Nolberto Solano missed two chances worthy of winning ‘miss of the season’ award.

Kenwyne Jones was the Sunderland hero once again as he salvaged a point against Fulham. The Black Cats had fallen behind following Simon Davies long-range free kick and things looked bleak when Greg Halford was sent off, but Jones was right on hand to head home in the 86th minute.

Shane Long scored with his second touch of the ball after coming on as a substitute to give Reading a 2-1 win over Newcastle. Dave Kitson curled home a peach of a goal to give the Royals lead only for Michael Duberry to put through his own net to level things up, but thankfully for Duberry Long was on hand to tuck him a tidy finish.

Manchester City goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel has joined Cardiff City on a month’s loan. The young Dane started the season as number one at Eastlands but has since lost his place to Joe Hart, and has joined the Welsh side to shore up a leaky defence that has conceded 15 goals in the last eight games. Manager Sven Goran Eriksson said “This does not mean Kasper has no future here, he just needs to get some games.”

Elsewhere Tottenham have parted company with goalkeeper coach Hans Sagers, who was dismissed alongside former manager Martin Jol earlier this week. Academy goalkeeper coach Perry Suckling will cover the role until further notice.

images - bbc.co.uk/sport

The Mid-week Review

2007-10-24T23:14:00.000+01:00

by Danny Wright

Rampant Arsenal romped to a magnificent 7-0 over sorry Slavia Prague at the Emirates on Tuesday night. It was the Gunners 12th successive victory and equalled a European record for the biggest win in the Champions League, the Gunners seven goals matching Juventus' 2003 demolition of Olympiakos. In-form Theo Walcott grabbed a brace – as did the awesome Cesc Fabregas – with Alexander Hleb, Nicklas Bendtner and a David Hubacek own goal compounding Slavia’s misery. Jens Lehmann was left out of the side once again as Manuel Almunia kept another clean sheet, and it didn’t take long for the German to voice his frustration as he told German TV channel Premiere: "I think - and this is aimed at my dear manager - one shouldn't humiliate players for too long.”

Manchester United enjoyed their night in the Ukraine as they beat Dynamo Kiev 4-2. Rio Ferdinand headed after ten minutes and Wayne Rooney had doubled United’s advantage. Kiev found a way back into the game when Diogo Rincon nodded past Edwin van der Saar, however Cristiano Ronald restored parity with another just before half-time and a 68th minute penalty to seal the win. Kiev had one last rally through Ismael Bangoura, but the points were always going to be United’s.

Rangers impressive start to the Champions League group phase continued when they held Barcelona to a 0-0 draw at Ibrox. Trickster Ronaldinho rattled the Rangers crossbar, meanwhile Lionel Messi and Thierry Henry (remember him?) both went close but the hosts held firm. Daniel Cousin lashed a late effort wise and Barry Ferguson was inches away from sending Glasgow into raptures as he failed to connect with a Cousin cross. It wasn’t to be as Rangers push for next the phase gathers momentum.

Another team gaining momentum are Avram Grant’s Chelsea, who seem to be responding to Jose Mourinho’s exit in the form of results as they beat Schalke 04 2-0 at Stamford Bridge. Florent Malouda squeezed a shot through Manuel Neuer’s legs to give Chelsea the lead with Didier Drogba securing the win with a diving header. Chelsea now top the group with seven points at half-way stage, the knock-out phase within the Blues’ sight.

Liverpool couldn’t build on their win at Everton at the weekend as they won’t down disappointingly to Turkish side Besiktas, 2-1 the final score. Sami Hyypia scored another own goal to put the home side ahead, with Bobo scoring the Turks’ second. Steven Gerrard’s late header wasn’t enough for Rafa Benetiz’s men, whose Champions League status now hangs in the balance.

Celtic’s poor away form got the better of them once again as they went down 1-0 to Benfica. Benfica twice rattled the woodwork and it looked like the Bhoys would hold out, but Oscar Cardozo’s close range effort four minutes from time broke Celtic hearts.

In other news Steve Staunton has been relieved of his duties as Republic of Ireland manager. The news comes as little surprise following a poor run of form which saw the Irish slump the 32nd in the FIFA World Rankings. The FIFA Rankings won’t be pleasant reading for England fans either in the coming weeks as it was revealed today rivals Scotland may leap frog them into the charts, the Scots recent renaissance and the English slump causing the change. Scotland lie just two places behind England in 13th, with Steve McClaren’s men slipping out of the top ten into 11th following their defeat to Russia.

Look away now if you’re a Bolton fan as it was revealed today that Gary Megson (yes, the Gary Megson) will be interviewed for the vacant managerial post. The position came available after struggling Bolton released Sammy Lee after a poor start, something they seemingly want to continue under Megson’s stewardship.

images - bbc.co.uk

Boruc Stands His Ground

2007-10-23T14:32:00.000+01:00

by Danny Wright

Celtic goalkeeper Arthur Boruc has refused to back down over his refusal to shake hands with Rangers' players following the Bhoys 3-0 defeat to their bitter rivals at Ibrox on Saturday.

The Polish stopper came under-fire for his unsporting gesture, but he defended himself in an interview with a Polish newspaper, saying he did not shake hands because he does not like Rangers - or their players.

He told Gazeta Wyborcza: "They were provoking me throughout the game. They were teasing me and they were trying to hurt me. "

"I don't have to love anyone. I don't like this club (Rangers), or these players."

Boruc's controversy with Rangers extends back before Saturday's flashpoint.

In February 2006 he was cautioned by police for gesturing at Rangers supporters during a Celtic victory, and in May of this year Boruc unveiled at flag at their rival's ground that proclaimed Celtic were the champions.

"We are enemies. We are fighting for the title and any form of friendship is out of the question" Boruc added.

image - bbc.co.uk/sport

Dida Ban Reduced

2007-10-22T14:24:00.000+01:00

by Danny Wright

AC Milan goalkeeper Dida has had two-game Champions League ban reduced to one game following a successful appeal to governing body Uefa.

The Brazillian was banned for two games for breaching Uefa's principles of "sportsmanship and integrity" after a Champions league defeat to Celtic earlier this month.

Dida fell theatrically and had to be carried off on a strecher after being struck by an encroaching supporter - and although the contact was minimal - it was enough for the big stopper to collapse to the ground.

Milan however stuck by their keeper and have had the ban reduced, meaning Dida will be available for their clash with Shaktar Donetsk on November 6th.

image - bbc.co.uk/sport

The Weekend Round-up

2007-10-21T22:19:00.000+01:00

by Danny Wright

Liverpool came up trumps in a controversial Merseyside derby at Goodinson on Saturday, Dirk Kuyt’s two penalties giving Rafa Benetiz’s side the win. Everton had taken the lead thanks to Sami Hyypia’s sliced own-goal effort, and the Toffees looked comfortable until Tony Hibbert was sent off for bringing down Steven Gerrard in the box. Mark Clattenburg appeared to be giving Hibbert a yellow until Gerrard intervened, the sanction upgraded to a red. Kuyt tucked away the spot-kick, as Everton had two stonewall penalty shouts of their own turned down, Joleon Lescott wrestled to the floor on both occasions. Phil Neville then thought he was playing in goal as he handled on the line to give the Reds a second penalty, which Kuyt slotted home under the despairing body of Tim Howard. Goal-hero Kuyt was lucky to still be on the pitch prior to his winner having lunged at Neville, the Dutchman’s x-rated challenge going unpunished.

Arsenal maintained their title challenge with an impressive win over manager-less Bolton at the Emirates. The Trotters shut out the imperious Gunners for 68 minutes until Kolo Toure crashed home a long-range free-kick. Teenage prodigy Theo Walcott made his mark on the game after coming on as a substitute, his cross setting up Tomas Rosicky to head home the winner. Arsenal lead second-placed Manchester United by two points with a game in hand, Arsene Wenger’s title challenge seemingly going unnoticed by the hoards of sports-reporting media.

As mentioned United trial Arsenal despite thumping Aston Villa 4-1 with a stirring display at Villa Park, the hosts going ahead following Gabriel Agbonlahor’s headed effort. United hit back though when Zat Knight allowed Nani’s cross to roll past him - Wayne Rooney on hand to tap home - and the England man was at it again to make it 2-1, his composed finish doing the damage. Craig Gardner’s calamity own goal put the game beyond doubt just before half time, as Villa had Nigel Reo-Coker and Scott Caron sent off. Ryan Giggs added a deflected fourth to compound Villa’s misery.

Man City remain in the upper echelons of the Premier League as they recorded their sixth successive home win, Brazilian’s Elano’s strike enough to see of Birmingham 1-0 at Eastlands, meanwhile Portsmouth enjoyed their fourth successive Premiership win to climb up to fifth, Wigan on the receiving end of a 2-0 defeat. Benjani and Glen Johnson scored the all important goals, with the former – quite worryingly – heading the top scorer charts at present.

Things look bleak at Middlesborough as they were defeated by Chelsea at the Riverside, 100% committed Chelsea-man Didier Drogba compensating for his mid-week whistle blowing by setting the Blues on their way to the win with a fine goal. Alex sealed the win with a rasping 30-yard free kick to help Chelsea up to 7th in the table.

Blackburn beat Reading 4-2 in an entertaining game at Ewood Park, Benni McCarthy’s double and goals from Roque Santa Cruz and a rocket (at first viewing) from war-horse Tugay giving Rovers the win. Kevin Doyle headed two consolations strikes for Steve Coppell’s men, who seem to be suffering second-season syndrome symptoms at present.

Fulham and Derby played out a 0-0 draw at Craven Cottage, Antti Niemi’s heroics saving the Cottagers from defeat as Paul Konchesky saw red for a flailing elbow on Craig Fagan. West Ham grabbed a fortuitous 3-1 win over Sunderland, Craig Gordon’s cruel own goal either side of Carlton Cole and Craig Bellamy’s strikes giving the Hammers the win. Kenwyne Jones had snatched an equaliser but it was West Ham who went home happy, condemning Roy Keane’s men to a lowly 16th in the table.

In other news, Rob Green has lifted the lid on his England frustration having being constantly overlooked for the Euro 2008 qualifiers, despite playing some of the best football of his career. 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.”

images - bbc.co.uk & football.co.uk (Green)

Robinson Admits Error

2007-10-19T10:59:00.000+01:00

by Danny Wright

Paul Robinson has admitted he was at fault for Russia's winning goal in England's 2-1 Euro 2008 qualifying defeat in Moscow on Wednesday night.

Robinson failed to hold Alexey Berezutsky’s shot and could only divert the ball into the path of Roman Pavlyuchenko, who promptly tapped in home to win the match.

The defeat leaves England's qualification hopes hanging in the balance having lead 1-0 in Moscow, and Steve McClaren's men must now beat Croatia and rely on Israel drawing or beating the Russians in next month's final game.

"For the second goal, I just didn't get enough on the ball," Robinson told Sky Sports News

"I got a hand on it but not a strong enough hand and the ball fell in the middle of the area. But we had chances as well to have gone further ahead at 1-0. "

Robinson's place in the England side has come under scrutiny following a series of errors for both club and country, with many calling for Portsmouth keeper David James to be recalled to the international fold.

McClaren stuck with Robinson though, and the decision could prove costly as England hope on a minor miracle in Israel next month.

image - dailymail.co.uk

The Mid-week Review

2007-10-18T13:25:00.000+01:00

by Danny Wright

England’s qualification hopes hang in the balance as they were defeated 2-1 by Russia last night in Moscow. England had taken the lead after Wayne Rooney smashed home Michael Owen’s flick but couldn’t build on their advantage as Steven Gerrard and Sol Campbell missed easy chances. The Russians were to make McClaren’s men pay in the second half as they got a deserved equalizer, Rooney pulling down Konstanin Zurianov to win a penalty. The replays showed the incident occurred outside of the box, but this mattered little as Roman Pavluchenko slotted home, and the substitute was on hand to strike again as Paul Robinson failed to hold Alexei Berezutsky's shot to give the home side the win. England now have to rely on Israel holding Russia to a draw or defeat next month, meanwhile McClaren’s men must beat Croatia at Wembley to have any hope of qualifying.

Scotland couldn’t build on their win over Ukraine as they slipped to defeat away at lowly Georgia. James McFadden was denied a stonewall penalty when Blackburn centre-back Zurab Khizanishvili upended the Everton man, with Kenny Miller going close after good link up play down the Georgian left. The Scots’ early pressure counted for nothing though as 17-year-old Levan Mchedlidze headed home from a corner, and David Siradze scrambled home a second to end Scotland’s winning streak. Scotland must now beat World Champions Italy at Hampden to qualify.

Northern Ireland’s qualification hopes also faltered, as they could only manage a draw away at Sweden. The home side went ahead after 15 minutes when Olof Melberg headed home, but Nigel Worthington’s men hit back thanks to Kyle Lafferty’s superb individual strike. Mathematically Northern Ireland can still go through, but results need to go their way and they must collect maximum points from their remaining game against Denmark.

The Republic of Ireland limped to an embarrassing home draw to Cyprus, 1-1 the final score at Croke Park. Stelios Okkarides headed the Cypriots ahead after 80 minutes having spurned three good half chances, and it was left to unlikely scorer Steve Finnan to save Eire’s blushes with a fierce injury time volley. There were 15000 empty seats in Dublin as Steve Staunton’s men looked to avenge their 5-2 defeat to Cyprus in Nicosia last year, yet there were to be no heroics as the Irish miss out on another major international tournament.

Wales enjoyed somewhat better fortunes as they stumbled to a win over San Marino, Craig Bellamy and Joe Ledley scoring the Welsh before Andy Selva pulled a late goal back from a free-kick. The pressure mounts on under-fire manager John Toshack, whose side lie second bottom in their qualifying pool.

Romania, Germany, Czech Republic and Greece have already qualified for next summer’s championships, something many England fans will no doubt be envious of in their current state.

images - bbc.co.uk, belfastelegraph.co.uk

The Weekend Round-up

2007-10-14T23:10:00.000+01:00

by Danny Wright

England gave their qualifications hopes a huge boost with a convincing 3-0 win over a poor Estonia side at Wembley. England never really got out of second gear but managed to score three past their beleaguered opponents, as Shaun Wright-Phillips got the ball rolling on ten minutes as his angled shots found its way through Mart Poom’s legs, much to the embarrassment of the Watford keeper. Wayne Rooney scored his first competitive England since 2004 as he deflected effort somehow crept home to make it two as the hosts turned the screw. Estonia did get on the score sheet – but much to their dismay it was in the wrong net as Taavi Rahn headed home from all of 20 yards to settle the tie. England can qualify for next summers championships should they beat Russia on the Moscow astro-turf on Wednesday night, but they will have to do it without the injured Ashley Cole who is set the miss the crunch clash. The nation hopes and prays Phil Neville doesn’t play instead.

Scotland’s renaissance continues as they beat Ukraine 3-1 at Hampden, with it looking likely the Tartan Army will be making their way to Austria and Switzerland. Alex McLeish’s men got off to a dream start as Kenny Miller headed home after three minutes, with the visitor’s hitting back through captain Andriy Shevchenko, but that wasn’t enough to ruin the party as James McFadden turned on the style; first he set up Lee McCulloch for Scotland’s second, and the Everton man hit the winner once again as fired home to seal the win after 68 minutes. Scotland head group B, leading Italy by one point and France by two who both their qualifiers against Georgia (2-0) and Faroe Islands (6-0) respectively to keep the pressure on the Scots.

Republic of Ireland’s qualifying chances look bleak as they fired blanks with Germany at Croke Park, a dour 0-0 the final result. The point was enough for the visitors to qualify, with Jens Lehmann playing his first game in a blue moon. The German couldn’t keep out of trouble though, getting himself booked for failing to give the ball back to the Irish players after a throw-in.

Wales capitulated to an embarrassing defeat to the hands of Cyprus, 3-1 the final score. John Toshack’s men thought they had found the tonic after James Collins tucked home a baby-faced Gareth Bale free-kick, but lackadaisical defending from set-plays cost the Welsh dear as Yiannis Okkas hit a brace and Konstantinos Charalampidis sealed the win.

Northern Ireland take on Sweden in Stockholm on Wednesday needing a win to boost their qualification hopes, but Nigel Worthington’s men will have to do without winger Keith Gillespie and Johnny Evans who pulled out of the squad earlier this week.

Leeds’ revival continues to gain momentum despite dropping their first home points of the season in a 1-1 draw with Leyton Orient. The Yorkshire club are now up to 12th place with 14 points having miraculously recovered from a 15 point penalty deduction. There was more good news for Leeds this week as keeper Casper Ankergren was awarded the League One Player of the Month Award for September, with manager Dennis Wise scooping the manager's accolade.

images - bbc.co.uk

City - Isaksson Not Leaving

2007-10-12T22:36:00.000+01:00

by Danny Wright

Manchester City goalkeeper Andreas Isaksson is not leaving the club, despite recent rumours linking the Swede with a move away from Eastlands.

Isaksson has seldom featured for City since his arrival in August 2006, and is currently third choice behind promising keepers Kasper Schmeichel and Joe Hart.

The lack of first team action had sparked rumours that the 26-year-old would be on his way out of Eastlands, but City assistant manager Tord Grip has rubbished such reports, telling the Daily Mail:

"It is absolutely not true that we are looking to sell Andreas."

"If Andreas shows his best form in Sweden's next two games it is very possible he will get a chance soon."

image - bbc.co.uk/sport

Dida Receives Ban

2007-10-12T19:03:00.000+01:00

by Danny Wright

AC Milan goalkeeper Dida has been banned for two matches following his theatrics in a recent Champions League clash with Celtic.

Celtic beat the European Champions 2-1 at Park Head, but the game was marred as a Celtic fan appeared to strike Dida having encroached onto the playing area.

It appeared to be little more than a cheeky slap; however Dida was stretchered off after going down theatrically following Steve McDonald's later winner.

The Brazilian has been fined for showing a lack of sportsmanship, meanwhile Celtic have also been fined £25,000 for showing a lack of organization and improper conduct of it’s supporters.

image - telegraph.co.uk

Injury Blow for Wales Stopper

2007-10-08T11:22:00.001+01:00

by Danny Wright

Wales will be without influential goalkeeper Wayne Hennessy for their Euro 2008 qualifiers against Cyprus and San Marino.

The 20-year-old injured his hip playing for Wolves against Coventry at the weekend and has been forced to withdraw from the squad.

Hennessy has made an impressive start to his international career, keeping a clean sheet on his debut against Bulgaria in August.

Danny Coyne is also an injury doubt - he is only rated as having a 50/50 chance - with Derby's Lewis Price the main contender to take the number one jersey.

image - www.sportinglife.com

The Weekend Round-up

2007-10-08T07:42:00.000+01:00

by Danny Wright

Arsenal returned to the summit of the Premier League as they beat Sunderland 3-2 in a thriller at the Emirates. Robin van Persie rattled home a rasping free-kick early on and Black Cat’s fans feared the worst when oaf-footed Philippe Senderos somehow stabbed home to make it 2-0. Ross Wallace hit back though, and power-house striker Kenwyne Jones equalized to shock Arsenal, but van Persie struck again to Sunderland’s dismay as Paul McShane saw red late on.

Manchester United follow Arsenal close behind after beating a spirited Wigan 4-0 at Old Trafford. The Latics had held out 53 minutes until Carlos Tevez struck, with a Ronaldo double and a Wayne Rooney strike sealing an impressive win.

Sven’s Manchester City are a surprise inclusion in the top four at present, currently lying a lofty third place after they beat Middlesborough 3-1 at Eastlands. Chris Riggot helped City on their way with an own goal, and a superb Elano strike doubled the home side’s advantage and the in-form hit man struck again with a delightful free-kick. Joe Hart couldn’t keep a clean sheet on his full top flight debut as Ben Hutchinson struck a consolation for Boro.

Liverpool occupy the remaining Champions League spot in fourth as they stuttered to a home draw against Tottenham, the game a 2-2 draw after Fernando Torres late-leveler thwarted Martin Jol’s men.

Merseyside rivals Everton fell 3-2 at Newcastle in a lively encounter at St James Park. Nicky Butt curled home a beauty to open the scoring, but Andy Johnson ended his barren goal spell with an equalizer only for Emre and fit-again Michael Owen to put daylight between the two sides. Shay Given scored a bizarre own-goal to give the Toffees hope but it wouldn’t rain on the Owen parade as England fans across the globe rejoiced.

Jussi Jaaskelainen did his utmost to deny Chelsea but his heroics weren’t enough as Salomon Kalou broke through to give Avram Grant’s side the 1-0 win. The Finish keeper saved from Frank Lampard and Florent Malouda to keep his side in the tie but his colleagues at the other end couldn’t do the business as the Trotters remain second bottom.

Blackburn defeated unlucky Birmingham 2-1 at Ewood Park. David Bentley’s swivel and shot gave Rovers’ the lead and Benni McCarthy struck from the spot kick, with Cameron Jerome pulling one back for Steve Bruce’s men.

Elsewhere, Fulham suffered home defeat to Portsmouth. Two goals inside two second half minutes did the trick for Harry Redknapp’s mean, as Benjani and Hermann Hreidarsson struck to lift Pompey up to fifth in the table. Both sides were indebted to stopper’s Kasey Keller and David James respective contributions as their fine saves kept both sides in the clash.

Derby’s Premiership life doesn’t get any easier as they were felled by Reading 1-0 at the Madejski thanks to Kevin Doyle’s strike; meanwhile Craig Gardner scored a deserved winner to hand Aston Villa a win over West Ham in the solitary 3pm Saturday game of the weekend.

images - bbc.co.uk/sport

Boro Recall Stopper Turnbull

2007-10-06T11:11:00.000+01:00

by Danny Wright

Middlesborough have recalled goalkeeper Ross Turnbull from his loan spell at Cardiff.

The 22-year-old had planned to spend the season in Wales but has been brought back to the Riverside as cover to Mark Schwarzer, Boro's only fit goalkeeper at present.

Brad Jones has a thigh strain and manager Gareth Southgate only had 17-year-old Jason Steele as cover.

Turnbull was second choice at the Bluebirds, team-mate Michael Oakes the current number one at Ninian Park.

The Mid-week Review

2007-10-04T12:41:00.000+01:00

by Danny Wright

The Champions League game week-two constituted this week’s mid-week football action, and it was Rangers who embraced the European stage with a superb 3-0 win over Alain Perrin’s Lyon side. Lee McCulloch gave the visitors the lead, and strikes from Daniel Cousin and DaMarcus Beasley sealed a fine win. Rangers are second in Group E, only behind leaders Barcelona on goal difference.

Chelsea also enjoyed this week’s European action, lifting the gloom surrounding Avram Grant as Joe Cole’s vintage display earned the Blues a 2-1 win over Valencia. The hosts took the lead through David Villa as he beat Peter Cech to score, but Cole’s scrambled effort levelled things up. Cole then turned provider as he put in Didier Drogba to seal the win after seventy minutes, giving under-fire Israeli Grant a much needed boost.

Manchester United overcame a defiant Roma at Old Trafford, Wayne Rooney’s first goal of the season giving Sir Alex’s men a 1-0 win. The clash was a far cry from the 7-1 drubbing handed out to the Italians in April as chances were at a premium, but it was Rooney’s effort that made all the difference as he turned and shot to give United the win.

Steaua Bucharest were defeated by Arsenal in Romania, as Robin van Persie’s strike gave the Gunners a second successive Champions League win. Arsenal dominated affairs but were frustrated by the hosts, Emmanuel Adebayor’s assist unlocking a resilient Bucharest side. Manuel Almunia kept his fifth clean sheet in a row, news that will no doubt delight the onlooking Jens Lehmann.

Celtic also savoured the European occasion, felling Italian giants AC Milan 2-1 at Park Head. The clash was marred however as Milan goalkeeper Dida had to be carried off on a stretcher after being confronted by a Celtic fan. The home team could be in hot water with Uefa, although the Brazilian appeared to suffer little more than a cheeky slap. Stephen McManus opened the scoring the Bhoys, but Kaka levelled from the penalty spot, however when Dida failed to hold a Steven McDonald shot Glasgow went into raptures as Celtic saw out the win.

Liverpool were the only British side not to win on Wednesday night, as they were somewhat shocked by French side Marseille at Anfield. Mathieu Valbuena’s fine strike after 77 minutes left keeper Pepe Reina with no chance as Liverpool failed to encapsulate their usually immaculate Champions League form.

Spurs and Aston Villa played out an incredible 4-4 draw on Monday night, the hosts recovering from 4-1 down and Paul Robinson’s error to snatch a point, Pascal Chimbonda, Robbie Keane and Younis Kaboul completing the comeback for Martin Jol’s men.

In the Championship, Charlton defeated Hull in an ill-tempered affair at the KC stadium; meanwhile there were wins for Watford, Plymouth, Coventry, and Barnsley. The pick of the games came at Preston who thumped sorry Southampton 5-1, with QPR failing to do the ‘win-under-the-new-manager’ trick as they were beaten 4-2 by Colchester, the R’s seemingly not responding to Mick Harford’s appointment.

images - bbc.co.uk/sport

The Weekend Round-up

2007-09-30T23:21:00.000+01:00

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

2007-09-27T12:30:00.000+01:00

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

2007-09-23T23:08:00.000+01:00

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

2007-09-19T22:53:00.000+01:00

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

2007-09-17T07:51:00.000+01:00

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

2007-09-14T10:27:00.001+01:00

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

2007-09-14T09:55:00.000+01:00

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

2007-09-12T22:45:00.000+01:00

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

2007-09-10T16:38:00.000+01:00

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

2007-09-10T16:19:00.000+01:00

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

2007-09-09T22:41:00.000+01:00

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

2007-09-05T22:23:00.000+01:00

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.

images - Doncaster & Morecambe - bbc.co.uk
Crouch - http://digitalheadbutt.wordpress.com

Given Ponders Future

2007-09-05T12:22:00.000+01:00

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.

image - great-save.com

Carroll Withdraws From NI Squad

2007-09-04T21:53:00.000+01:00

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.

image - 4thegame.com

Carson Plays Down England Chances

2007-09-04T09:36:00.001+01:00

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.”."

image - 4thegame.com

The Weekend Round-up

2007-09-03T08:59:00.000+01:00

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.

The Mid-week Review

2007-08-29T23:35:00.000+01:00

by Danny Wright

Hull dumped Premiership Wigan out of the League Cup 2nd Round thanks to Stuart Elliot’s 20 yard lob that left Mike Pollitt stranded, with an entertaining game witnessed by just 5440 dedicated souls. In other shocks, league new-comers Morecambe continued their giant killing exploits by felling Wolves 3-1 at Molineux, meanwhile Blackpool beat Derby 7-6 on penalties.

Southend defeated Watford 2-0 at Roots Hall; with League One compatriots Leeds defeated 3-0 at Portsmouth. Oldham, Leyton Orient, Hartlepool Swansea, Doncaster and Carlisle were all defeated by superior opposition.

Luton faired much better though - beating 10-man Sunderland 3-0 at Kenilworth Road – with Paul Furlong rolling back the years with a vintage display. It’s been a bad to start to his Sunderland career for full-back Greg Halford, the bungling defender looking hap-hazard in his last two starts and getting sent off in his third, trouble definitely coming in three’s for the former Reading man.

It was also a bad night for Kieron Dyer at the Memorial Ground, the West Ham freshman breaking his leg in two-places in their 2-1 win over Bristol Rovers. Alan Curbishley was understandably unhappy about the incident, saying "The player (Rovers’ Joe Jacobson) has got to be disappointed with his tackle. As far as I could see, he lashed out after losing the ball."

The League Two representatives didn’t fair much better than the string of defeated League One sides - plucky MK Dons, Rochdale, Shrewsbury and Wrexham all beaten. Sir Alex Ferguson was the guest at London Road as he watched son Darren’s Peterborough lose to West Brom.

Undoubtedly the tie of the round was at Charlton, who survived a big scare from Stockport, beating the Hatters 4-3 at The Valley. Birmingham avoided a shock as they stumbled past Hereford, the game finishing 2-1 at St Andrews despite a late rally from the Bulls.

Leicester defender Clive Clarke collapsed in the Midlands derby clash against Nottingham Forest, the game abandoned at half time following the frightening incident. Clarke was kept in hospital overnight and his condition is said to be stable, which is more than can be said for his side - Leicester were losing 1-0 at the interval thanks to Junior Agogo’s strike.

On Wednesday, Man City and Newcastle fended off scares, beating Bristol City 2-1 and Barnsley 2-0 respectively in potentially tricky ties. Middlesborough beat Northampton 2-0 at the Riverside.

Liverpool enter the Champions League phase thanks to a 5-0 aggregate win over Toulouse, the game 4-0 on the night. Anfield paid tribute to recently murdered 11-year-old Everton fan Rhys Jones, playing the Toffee’s theme song Z-Cars before a moving rendition of ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ in memoriam of the football-mad youngster. His family were guests of honour for the match, the homage a refreshing subversion to the stereotype of arrogance and alienation in the world of football.

Arsenal overcame Sparta Prague 3-0 at the Emirates, with Rangers draw at Red Star Belgrade enough to give them an aggregate win. Arthur Boruc saved two penalties in Celtic’s 4-3 penalty shootout win over Spartak Moscow, the game going the full length with both teams tied 2-2 after extra time. Celtic could have won the tie in the additional 30 minutes but Roman Pavluchenko fluffed his lines from twelve yards.

In transfer news, Aston Villa sign defender Zat Knight and Kenwyne Jones joins Sunderland from Southampton for £6m. Everton completed the signing of Yakubu following trouble with the Nigerian’s work permit as West Ham make a £5m bid for England and Reading left-back Nicky Shorey.

images - Stuart Elliot - ambernectar.org

Dyer & Jones' parents - bbc.co.uk/sport

Injured Isaksson Gets The Nod

2007-08-29T19:14:00.000+01:00

by Danny Wright

Manchester City goalkeeper Andreas Isaksson has been included in the Sweden squad to take on Denmark in Euro 2008 qualifying next month - despite carrying an injury.

Isaksson has missed the start of the Premiership season because of a fractured thumb, with youngster Kasper Schmeichel deputizing for former Juventus man.

Elfsborg keeper Johan Wiland and Rami Shaaban have also been included to face the Danish in Stockholm on September 8th.

Sweden currently lie top of Group F with 18 points, two clear of surprise-package Northern Ireland and three clear of Spain.

image - 4thegame.com

The Weekend Round-Up

2007-08-27T08:06:00.000+01:00

by Danny Wright

Derby prop up the table after they lost 2-1 to fellow new-boys Birmingham at Pride Park, Cameron Jerome’s brace giving Steve Bruce’s men their first win of the season. Matt Oakley had levelled for the Rams but it wasn’t enough to earn a point as Blues keeper Maik Taylor – making his first start of the season – foiled the hosts with some fine saves.

Aston Villa beat Fulham 2-1 in a thrilling game at Villa Park. American Clint Demspey put the Cottagers ahead on six minutes, but Zat Knight turned into his own net to level things up. Fulham should have been awarded a penalty, and Diomansy Kamara hit a post, but it was Villa who took the points thanks to Shaun Maloney’s last minute winner.

Bolton eased the pressure on struggling manager Sammy Lee as they beat Reading 3-0 at the Reebok, as West Ham and Wigan’s 1-1 draw and Paul Scharner’s stunning opener were overshadowed by Eggert Magnusson’s dodgy tie.

Sunderland are coming to terms with the harsh realities of the Premiership as they were comfortably beaten by Liverpool 2-0 at the Stadium of Light, Mohamed Sissoko and Andriy Voronin the scorers. £9m summer signing Craig Gordon kept the score down with some good goalkeeping, seemingly justifying his hefty price tag even at this early stage.

Everton and Blackburn scrapped out a dreary 1-1 draw at Goodison; meanwhile Arsenal ended Sven’s dream start with a 1-0 win over Man City at the Emirates. Kasper Schmeichel saved Robin Van Persie’s penalty, but it was the Gunners who had the last laugh as Cesc Fabregas fired home with just ten minutes remaining.

Chelsea top the pile as they cashed in on David James’ error to beat Portsmouth 1-0 at the Bridge. It was a bad end to a good week for the Pompey keeper, his chances of becoming England’s number one once again hindered by his soft handling that allowed Frank Lampard’s effort to creep home. Lampard, by comparison, capped off his good week with a sterling display, the midfield maestro the pick of the bunch in England’s defeat to Germany on Wednesday.

Manchester United earned a vital win as they beat Tottenham thanks to Nani’s wonder strike, his thirty yard effort giving Sir Alex’s men their first three points of the season. Spurs should have been awarded a penalty when Wes Brown handled, but referee Howard Webb waved away the appeals, with the continuing number of poor decisions causing much concern amongst disgruntled supporters.

Julio Arca was Middleborough’s hero as they twice came from behind to earn a point in the Tyne-Tees derby against Newcastle. Charles N'Zogbia gave the Magpies the lead before Mido equalized, with former ‘Boro man Mark Viduka giving his new side the lead, his subdued celebrations a mark of respect to his former employers as the game petered out to a 2-2 draw.

There was a sombre atmosphere around the league grounds on Saturday as the news emerged that 18-year-old QPR striker Ray Jones had died in a car crash on Friday night, the R’s clash with Burnley postponed. The sad week was compounded by the news that Walsall apprentice Anton Reid died after collapsing during a training session; the youngster passing away aged just 16. Many condolences go out to the grieving families, the tragic events putting the significance of football well and truly into perspective.

images - bbc.co.uk & football.co.uk

Cottagers Snap Up Keller

2007-08-26T11:55:00.000+01:00

by Danny Wright

Fulham have signed veteran goalkeeper Kasey Keller from Bundesliga side Borussia Monchengladbach.

The 37-year-old arrives at Craven Cottage as cover for the injured Antti Niemi and Tony Warner, who was dropped in favour of the American for the Cottagers 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa.

Warner has made a poor start to the season having made two mistakes in as many games, and manager Lawrie Sanchez felt the need to bolster his options, telling the BBC:

"With Antti being injured, it was important we added some strength and depth. Kasey is a proven professional with impeccable international and he will be a valuable asset to us over the course of the season."

Keller's return to the Premiership will be his third spell in the English top flight, having spent time with Leicester City and Tottenham Hotspur respectively, the two stints sandwiched between moves to Spanish side Rayo Vallecano in 1999 and the Bundesliga in 2005.

The American international made an immediate impact with an impressive display in the defeat at Villa, denying John Carew with a splendid save.

image - usatoday.com

Green Signs New Deal

2007-08-23T16:02:00.000+01:00

by Danny Wright

West Ham goalkeeper Robert Green has signed a new four-year deal at the London club.

Midfielder Mark Noble has also signed a similar deal, with defenders Danny Gabbidon and James Collins also signing long-term contracts earlier in the week.

England goalkeeper Green will now remain at Upton Park until 2011, who also have Richard Wright and James Walker at their disposal.

Green signed for West Ham back in August 2006 from Norwich for a £2m fee, with a string of fine displays earning him a call into the England squad.

image - football.co.uk

The Mid-week Review

2007-08-23T13:18:00.000+01:00

by Danny Wright

Germany inflicted England’s first defeat at the new Wembley as they took the spoils 2-1 in an entertaining match, where some suspect goalkeeping was on show. England took the lead through Frank Lampard following some nice link up play with Micah Richards, however the Germans equalised through Kevin Kuranyi as Paul Robinson made a hash of a Bernd Schneider cross, the Tottenham keepers positioning looking suspect to say the least.

Christian Pander thumped home a 25-yard pile driver to put the visitors ahead, with England failing to convert a string of chances; Michael Owen, Kieron Dyer and Lampard the guilty parties. Jens Lehmann looked less than assured in the German goal, with Arsenal’s Manuel Almunia surely looking on with glee at his superior’s lacklustre display. Paul Robinson may also feel a tad uneasy after his showing, as David James made a faultless second half display.

Northern Ireland boosted their chances of Euro 2008 qualification as they overcame Liechtenstein 3-1 in Belfast, Nigel Worthington’s first game getting off to a dream start. David Healy grabbed two of the goals and Kyle Lafferty’s effort sealed the win, Liechtenstein’s Mario Frick scoring a late consolation. The win puts Ireland second in Group F.

Scotland beat South Africa 1-0 at Pittodrie thanks to Kris Boyd’s strike, with Sunderland keeper Craig Gordon keeping a clean sheet, meanwhile Wales defeated Bulgaria by the same score as debutant Freddy Eastwood marked his debut with a superb strike to give Wales the win. John Toshack’s men had young stopper Wayne Hennessey to thank for the win as he pitched in with an excellent display.

Robbie Keane and Shane Long bagged two goals apiece to give the Republic of Ireland a resounding 4-0 win over a beleaguered Denmark side, the game observing a minute’s silence in memory of Ireland manager Steve Staunton’s father Tom who died this week after suffering from a long term illness.

Armenia surprised Portugal with a 1-1 draw in Euro 2008 qualifying, as Belgium beat Serbia 3-2 in a thrilling match. Estonia beat Andorra, and there were wins for Cyprus and Finland in their respective qualifying quests.

In other news, Everton have bolstered their attacking options by agreeing a fee with Middlesborough for striker Aiyegbeni Yakubu, who has been given permission to begin talks with the Merseyside club. The Toffees have a chronic lack of strikers at present, Andy Johnson, James Vaughan and Victor Anichebe all out injured, and the £11.25m transfer of Yakubu will provide a much needed boost.

images - bbc.co.uk/sport

Wessels Joins Toffees

2007-08-21T15:57:00.001+01:00

by Danny Wright

Everton have signed German goalkeeper Stefan Wessels on a free transfer.

The experienced 28-year-old joins the Goodison Park club from Bundesliga outfit FC Cologne, and will provide competition for current number one Tim Howard and youngsters Iain Turner and John Ruddy.

Wessels has represented Germany at numerous levels - including under-21 - and helped former club Bayern Munich lift the Champions League trophy back in 2001 where he was Oliver Kahn's understudy.

He told evertonfc.com: "I am excited to be here in England. It is the first time I have played for a club outside of Germany but the English Premier League is a very exciting league and I am looking forward to my time here at Everton."

Wessels has signed an initial one year deal at the Merseyside club.

quotes - evertonfc.com

image - precisionfootball.com

Douglas Begins Trial

2007-08-21T15:02:00.000+01:00

by Danny Wright

Out-of-favour Leicester City goalkeeper Rab Douglas is to go on trial at Scottish club Motherwell in a bid to resurrect his career.

The 35-year-old has been told he is surplus to requirements at the Midlands club, and has not played for the Foxes since February.

Motherwell manager Mark McGhee requires competition for current first choice Graeme Smith, and will give Douglas until the end of the week to prove his worth at Fir Park.

image - wikimedia.org

David James signs with HO

2007-08-20T17:20:00.000+01:00

David James will now be wearing HO gloves as from the start of this season.

HO are proud to confirm the signing of one of the Premier League's top keepers - David James of Portsmouth F.C. The England squad keeper and Premiership clean sheet record holder has joined forces with goalkeeper HO goalkeeping specialist brand .

James last week was re-called to the England squad to face Germany in a show piece friendly at Wembley next Wednesday. Team-mate Sol Campbell has also earned a recall, with James' last England outing coming against Jamaica last June.
The veteran stopper has hit form since he joined Pompey last season, and has earned praise from all quarters for his fine displays, with many calling for the 37 year old to be restored to the national side.

The Weekend Round-up 18 & 19th August

2007-08-20T08:46:00.000+01:00

A quick round up of this weekend’s Premiership action, with news and views on the latest talking points from Danny Wright

Manchester City top the table after defeating bitter rivals Manchester United in the big Manchester Derby. The visitors had dominated throughout but couldn’t convert their chances as Geovanni sent Eastlands into delirium with his deflected long-range strike. City then produced a superb rearguard action, with Micah Richards and Richard Dunne foiling a lacklustre United on numerous occasions. Old Blue Eyes seems to be doing the trick at City, who haven’t conceded a goal and maintain their 100% start. Alan Hansen quickly dismissed any title challenge City may pose, this coming from the man who said United wouldn’t win anything with kids…

Liverpool and Chelsea played out an entertaining draw at Anfield, however the game made the headlines for the wrong reasons as referee Rob Styles had an afternoon to forget. Eight yellow cards were handed out in this fiery game, with Styles incorrectly awarding Chelsea a penalty to gift Mourinho’s men a lifeline. New signing Fernando Torres put the hosts ahead, before Frank Lampard tucked away the controversial spot-kick to finish things at 1-1.

Jens Lehmann’s howler handed Blackburn a point against Arsenal on Sunday, his glaring error allowing David Dunn’s tame effort to creep over the line. Brad Friedel was also in a generous mood as his spillage allowed Robin Van Persie to put the Gunners ahead after 18 minutes. Ryan Nelsen was later sent off, as Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger branded Blackburn “violent”, before running off home to tell his Daddy big, bad Mark Hughes had been picking on him again.

It wasn’t a good weekend for the league’s goalkeepers as Birmingham’s Colin Doyle contrived to gift West Ham a penalty by fouling Craig Bellamy in the match at St Andrews, Hammers youngster Mark Noble making no mistake from 12-yards.

Tony Warner wasn’t having a great weekend either as he shoveled a weak Mido effort into the net in Fulham’s match against Middlesborough. Brian McBride had put the Cottagers ahead, but Lee Cattermole snatched the points late on to give under-pressure manager Gareth Southgate a much needed boost. David Healy thought he had equalized, but his effort – at least a foot over the line – was chalked off by the seemingly blind-folded officials.

Wigan thrashed Roy Keane’s Sunderland 3-0 at the JJB, with not a decent shop or WAG in sight. It could be Keano who has to go shopping though, a defender top of the list after this display. Goal-machine Antoine Sibierski bagged his third goal in as many games to top the goal scoring charts, with Emile Heskey and Denny Landzaat also on the score sheet.

Tottenham bounced back with a 4-0 thumping of Derby, three goals in the first 14 minute settling the tie before it had really begun. The relief may only by temporary for Spurs fans, as they face Manchester United and Arsenal in the coming weeks.

Aston Villa and Newcastle played out a 0-0 draw at St James, Magpies stopper Steve Harper proving why he is a fine understudy to Shay Given with a string of fantastic saves. His counterpart – the on-loan Scott Carson – didn’t do too badly either as he thwarted David Rozehnal.

Bolton capitulated to a 3-1 defeat at Portsmouth, meanwhile Reading showed why they will be no sufferers of ‘Second Season Syndrome’ as they beat high-flying Everton 1-0 at the Madejski.

David Beckham played a full 90 minutes in LA Galaxy’s 5-4 loss to the New York Red Bulls at Giants Stadium, with Goldenballs expecting to be fit for England’s mid-week clash with Germany. Becks set up three of Galaxy’s goals but it came at a price as his ankle flared up on an unfamiliar astroturf surface.

Images - bbc.co.uk

Myhill Pens New Deal

2007-08-18T23:06:00.000+01:00

by Danny Wright

Hull City goalkeeper Boaz Myhill has signed a new three year contract that will keep him with the Tigers until 2010.

The 24-year-old has made 107 appearances for the Championship side, but has been regularly linked with moves away from the KC Stadium with Charlton, West Brom, Wigan and Reading all reported to be interested in the highly rated stopper.

Myhill signed for Hull in December 2003 from Aston Villa for £50,000, and has enjoyed two promotions during his time on Humberside.

Despite the new deal the American was promptly dropped for the Tigers 1-1 draw with Coventry on Saturday, long-term understudy Matt Duke preferred following an impressive display in the Carling Cup against Crewe.

Picture - ambernectar.com

James Earns England Recall

2007-08-17T16:14:00.001+01:00

by Danny Wright

Portsmouth goalkeeper David James has been included in the 28 man England squad to face Germany in a show piece friendly at Wembley next Wednesday. Team-mate Sol Campbell has also earned a recall, with James' last England outing coming against Jamaica last June.

The veteran stopper has hit form since he joined Pompey last season, and has earned praise from all quarters for his fine displays, with many calling for the 37 year old to be restored to the national side.

Manager Steve McClaren heeded such calls, telling the BBC: "David showed excellent and consistent form for Portsmouth last season, that's why he is back in the squad.

"His attitude and professionalism has been first-class throughout this period. I also watched him in action this week against Manchester United, he is a top-class goalkeeper and deserves his recall."

James - who will be joined by Tottenham's Paul Robinson and Liverpool's Scott Carson in the squad - broke the Premiership record for keeping the most clean sheets last season with his 142nd shut out of his illustrious career.

Full England squad to face Germany: Robinson (Tottenham), James (Portsmouth), Carson (Liverpool, on loan at Aston Villa), Richards (Manchester City), Brown (Manchester United), Ferdinand (Manchester United), Terry (Chelsea), Ashley Cole (Chelsea), Campbell (Portsmouth), Taylor (Newcastle), Neville (Everton), Shorey (Reading), Beckham (LA Galaxy), Gerrard (Liverpool), Lampard (Chelsea), Joe Cole (Chelsea), Wright-Phillips (Chelsea), Carrick (Manchester United), Barry (Aston Villa), Downing (Middlesbrough), Dyer (West Ham), Hargreaves (Manchester United), Smith (Newcastle), Owen (Newcastle), Crouch (Liverpool), Bent (Tottenham), Johnson (Everton), Defoe (Tottenham)

Picture courtest of goal.com, quotes & squad list bbc.co.uk