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Llorente and Lopez top Arsenal hitlist as Wenger concedes he must replace Van Persie in January
By SAMI MOKBEL PUBLISHED: 21:30 GMT, 10 October 2012 | UPDATED: 07:21 GMT, 11 October 2012
Arsene Wenger will open his chequebook to land Robin van Persie’s long-term successor when the transfer window re-opens. The Arsenal manager has instructed his global network of scouts to start identifying realistic forward targets the club can go for in January. And Wenger, together with his backroom team, will hold a series of technical meetings where those players identified will be discussed and formalised into a shortlist. Wenger has in the region of £35million to splash at the turn of the year and has made a new world-class centre-forward his top priority.
Head boy: Wenger is interested in signing Spain forward Llorente (left)
The Frenchman accepts he has not sufficiently replaced Van Persie after the Holland international moved to Premier League rivals Manchester United. Despite claims to the contrary, Olivier Giroud’s capture was always viewed as an option to supplement the Arsenal attack rather than spearhead it. It was hoped that Giroud would hit the ground running after his arrival, but the France international has scored just once in the Premier League. Wenger has also tried Gervinho in the central striker role - and while the Ivory coast forward has impressed at times - Wenger is not convinced he is the answer. Likewise, Lukas Podolski can be deployed as a conventional No 9 but Wenger feels the Germany international is best suited to the left-sided role he currently occupies.
Option: Arsenal could also turn to Lopez
Early contenders are Atletico Madrid striker Adrian Lopez, a player who has already been scouted intensively by Arsenal spies. Athletic Bilbao forward Fernando Llorente is also highly-rated by Wenger. The Spain international is out of contract at the end of the season meaning he could be available at a cut-price fee. Another option is Fiorentina forward Stevan Jovetic who has been on Arsenal’s radar for over 12 months, while Palermo’s Abel Hernandez has also been watched. As Sportsmail revealed on Tuesday, the Gunners are also in the running to sign Crystal Palace’s Wilfried Zaha - though the 19-year-old is not viewed as a centre-forward. Arsenal are also in the market for a goalkeeper to challenge No 1 Wojciech Szczesny in January. Wenger is keen on Swansea’s Michel Vorm.
Attracting interest: Michel Vorm
The Gunners hope their January spending will be supplemented by a mini-clearout. Arsenal will continue with their ongoing mission to sell the club’s unwanted stars. The likes of Nicklas Bendtner, Carlos Vela, Manuel Almunia, Denilson and Park Chu-young all left on a temporary or permanent basis during the summer. But Arsenal are still keen to offload Marouane Chamakh, Sebastien Squillaci, Johan Djourou and Andrey Arshavin. Meanwhile, starlet Chuba Akpom, who celebrated his 17th birthday this week, has signed professional terms at the Emirates. Chuba has represented England at a number of development levels and scored three goals in four games for the Under 17s at the 2011 Nordic Tournament.
Memories of Heysel made me turn down Liverpool offer, reveals Del Piero
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER PUBLISHED: 10:07 GMT, 11 October 2012 | UPDATED: 10:26 GMT, 11 October 2012
Painful memories of the Heysel tragedy and Liverpool fans' involvement in it stopped Alessandro Del Piero from joining the club this summer.It is 27 years since 39 Juventus fans were killed after a wall collapsed following rioting at the stadium in Belgium ahead of the European Cup final.But both clubs have gone to great lengths to heal the wounds following that fateful day.
Aussie rules: Del Piero chose Sydney over a move to Merseyside
On the 25th anniversary of the disaster, Liverpool unveiled a plaque at the entrance to the Centenary Stand in front of officials from both clubs.But Del Piero has revealed he could not move to Anfield, despite interest this summer, after recalling those events in Brussels. 'Why I said no to Liverpool? Negotiations with Sydney were already advanced and then I thought about what had happened at Heysel,' Del Piero told Gazzetta dello Sport.
'Juve and Liverpool were able to rebuild the relationship, but for many people that tragedy is an indelible memory. I thank all the clubs which wanted me, but I’m convinced of my choice.'The Italy legend completed his switch Down Under soon after Liverpool made their move, and he has revealed he is finding it hard to adjust after 19 years with the Turing giants.He said: 'One month is not much to make judgments, but the beginning is comforting from every point of view.'
The farewell to Juve still leaves a bad taste in my mouth. One year and a half ago I would not have imagined that this would happen, then things change.‘I still have the great satisfaction of having given everything I could for Juventus.'
Building bridges: Phil Neal (left), Michel Platini (centre) and Ian Rush before the Champions League clash in 2005
Blackburn back in for Sherwood as Venky's line up second bid for club legend
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER PUBLISHED: 08:29 GMT, 11 October 2012 | UPDATED: 08:34 GMT, 11 October 2012
Blackburn are refusing to give up in their attempts to lure Tim Sherwood back to the club as manager.Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy is equally determined to keep his technical co-ordinator and has already turned down an official approach from Rovers.But the 43-year-old, who captained the club to their Premier League title in 1995, remains the top target to succeed Steve Kean and the Venky family are set to launch a second bid.
The one they want: Tim Sherwood remains Blackburn's top target
Sherwood signed a four-year deal at White Hart Lane just last month but Rovers are willing to double his wages to £2million a year. He left Ewood Park in 1999 to join Spurs before spells at Portsmouth and Coventry. Sherwood called time on his playing career in 2005 and has been part of the backroom staff in north London since 2008.
Having players like Yaya Toure and Silva makes my job easier - Barry
The midfielder is happy with his role at the Etihad Stadium and is delighted to be surrounded by quality team-mates while admitting that he does not expect plaudits for his game
Cech hails Chelsea duo Hazard and Oscar after impressive start
The Blues keeper is delighted with the initial impact that the new signings have made at Stamford Bridge and praises how they have adapted to life in the Premier League
Arteta: I've changed my approach to fit Arsenal's system
The Spanish midfielder reveals he has had to adapt to a more defensive role, because of the new additions at the Emirates, and feels he has developed new skills whilst doing so
'I have not got a bad word to say about Manchester City' - Rodwell
The England Under-21 international has hit back at former winger Adam Johnson's recent suggestions that young English talent is being wasted at the Etihad Stadium
Low: Podolski is a better player since Arsenal move
The national team boss feels the attacker was right to move to England, and has stressed that the 27-year-old is a key player for the Nationalelf
Manchester City make Isco top January target ahead of Falcao & Jovetic
The Premier League champions have prioritised a move for the Malaga playmaker after learning that the Spanish club will offload him if his €21 million release clause is triggered
Foster hails West Brom's recruitment policy after signing Yacob
The former Manchester United goalkeeper admits to knowing nothing of the midfielder before his arrival at the club but has been impressed with his no-nonsense approach to football
Liverpool forward Fabio Borini suffers foot fracture
The Italian suffered the injury on international duty in training, and leaves Brendan Rodgers with a striker crisis with Luis Suarez the only fit first-team forward
Fulham manager Jol relieved by Duff's international retirement
The former Republic of Ireland winger amassed 100 caps for his country before calling it a day, and his manager has admitted it has had its advantages for his club this season
Opposition players are targeting Suarez, says Ayre
The Uruguay international was lambasted by Stoke City boss Tony Pulis for going to ground too easily, but the Reds chief believes the striker is being unfairly singled out
Ashley Cole admits FA charge over improper Twitter comment
The Chelsea left-back responded to implications his evidence in the John Terry racism trial was changed with a tirade on the social network and is facing a two-week fine
Dempsey: Tottenham could have a special season
With four straight Premier League wins, Spurs have climbed to fifth in the table and the USA international believes consistency will bring a hugely successful campaign
Fellaini sets sights on swift Everton comeback
The Toffees midfielder will miss Belgium's World Cup qualifiers but is hoping to make a return to club duty as quickly as possible, with the Merseyside derby fast approaching
Suso eager to sign new deal at 'ideal club' Liverpool
The Spanish youngster has broken into the Reds' first team under new boss Brendan Rodgers and has now stated his desire to remain at Anfield for the immediate future
Welbeck spurred on by Van Persie's arrival at Manchester United, says Carrick
The Red Devils' midfielder believes that the competition for places up front at Old Trafford has helped the youngster raise his game, with England reaping the benefits
Angel Rangel hails Spanish influence at Swansea
The right-back is pleased by the arrival of compatriots Michu, Chico Flores and Pablo Hernandez and believes that the trio will play a big part in the club's success this season
Manchester United youngster Ryan Tunnicliffe charged with drink-driving
The midfielder, who made his Red Devils debut earlier this season, collided with a van on Saturday afternoon, with the driver sustaining minor whiplash injuries as a consequence
Vidic aiming for Premier League and Champions League double
The former Serbia international is convinced the Red Devils will put their disappointing European performance last season behind them as their young players grow more experienced
Andre Santos refuses to rule out Arsenal exit for Fenerbahce
The Brazilian left-back has denied the Turkish club have made an offer for him but admitted he would consider what is best for his family if a proposal was forthcoming
Chelsea duo Lampard and Bertrand unavailable for England clash with Poland
The FA confirmed the Blues pair will not travel with the Three Lions squad to Warsaw for the World Cup 2014 qualifier on Tuesday
Bentley: Villas-Boas can lead Tottenham to glory this season
The 28-year-old feels while Harry Redknapp is a difficult act to follow, the Portuguese coach can deliver for them - but is unsure whether he will play a part for the London club
Lucas sets sights on Premier League and Champions League with Liverpool
The Brazilian midfielder admitted times have been tough at Anfield of late, but feels the club can go from strength to strength under Brendan Rodgers and compete for top honours
Manchester City and Chelsea target Falcao would be a Premier League superstar, insists Javi Garcia
The City new-boy believes the prolific Colombian has the skills to shine in any league in the world, and admits he would rather play alongside him than against him
Reo-Coker: Average foreign footballers are not improving the game
The former Bolton midfielder has expressed his anger that the English leagues continue to attract more foreigners, a situation which left him struggling to find a new club
'Mercenary' Carlos Tevez is all that's wrong with football, says Barton
The 30-year-old midfielder feels the Argentine striker epitomises all that is wrong with modern football, and has called into question his own 12-match ban received from the FA
Manchester City plan January contract talks for Gareth Barry
The England midfielder's current deal expires at the end of next season but both he and the club are confident that an agreement can be reached regarding new terms
Former FA chairman Triesman: Terry has damaged Chelsea's international reputation
The former England captain has been accused of tarnishing the image of the Blues since the FA charged the defender with racially abusing an opponent and banned him for four games
Manchester United consider shock Vidic sale amid Anzhi interest
Red Devils boss Sir Alex Ferguson could be tempted to cash in on the Serbian centre-back should the big-spending Russian side table a sizeable bid for the United skipper
Manchester City academy players urged not to copy Balotelli’s behaviour
The Premier League champions’ football administrator maintains the club's youth players should follow the example set by the senior members in Roberto Mancini's squad
Granqvist 'flattered' by Liverpool interest
The Swedish defender says he would be open to a move to a club as "historic and successful" as the Reds, but is currently focussed only on his national team
Burnley chief rules out approach for Coyle
The Clarets have distanced themselves from the recently sacked Bolton boss as the club continue their search for a replacement for Eddie Howe at Turf Moor
Suarez responds to Fifa's Jim Boyce's 'cheat' claims
The Uruguayan forward has hit back at the comments made by the vice-president of football's governing body, declaring that Northern Irishman simply "wanted to get publicity"
Young and Smalling in line for Manchester United return against Stoke City
Winger Antonio Valencia could also make an appearance from the start after coming off the bench in the 3-0 Premier League win over Newcastle before the international break
Early struggles at Liverpool made me stronger, says Lucas Leiva
The Brazilian had difficulty settling into the Premier League and was often criticised by the Reds' supporters, an experience which he says actually helped him out in the long run
Kolo Toure ready to fight for Manchester City place
Despite finding himself down the pecking order, the 31-year-old Ivorian wants to regain his first-team berth and emulate Manchester United veterans Paul Scholes and Ryan giggs
Bordeaux plot January move to relieve Arsenal of Chamakh
The Moroccan striker has found himself surplus to requirements at the Emirates Stadium but his former club are ready to offer an escape route in the upcoming transfer window
Rangers chief executive Charles Green apologises to Aston Villa
The Gers board member admits his remarks last week about the Villans' lack of competitiveness were inappropriate and has sought to build bridges with the Midlands club
Oct 14, 2012 9:05:00 PM
By James Vause
Rangers chief executive Charles Green has apologised to Aston Villa after making derogatory remarks about the club.
The 59-year-old made the comments whilst stating his belief that the formation of a 'European League' is the way forward for the top domestic clubs on the continent.
"There will be a European league because big teams can't keep subsidising small teams for the next 10 years because they will go stale," Green had said.
"How can Manchester United's revenues be €397 million and Aston Villa, who are completely useless, get €310m?"
Whilst the comments have left sections of the Villa fan base offended, a statement this week on the Rangers club website confirmed that Green has sent a letter of apology to Paul Lambert's side.
Rangers said: "Mr Green has sent an apology to Aston Villa saying there had been no intention to cause offence."
The Reds boss has revealed he has had "good conversations" with the Merseyside club's owners regarding making potential additions to his squad in the upcoming transfer window
Oct 13, 2012 11:30:00 PM
By David Lynch
Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers has hinted at the possibility of adding to his squad in the January transfer window.
The Reds were left with just two senior strikers following a disastrous final day of the summer window, in which Andy Carroll was loaned to West Ham whilst the Anfield outfit failed to secure a replacement.
With Fabio Borini ruled out due to a broken foot sustained on international duty, Rodgers has found himself short up top, but hopes to correct that in the near future.
“I’ve had good conversations with the owners and they *understand where we are at as a team at the moment," he told reporters.
“If we can get our best 11 players on the pitch then our team is comparable to any team in the league.”
Liverpool currently sit in 14th place in the Premier League, having gained just seven points from their opening six fixtures.
United starlet Tunnicliffe charged with drink-driving after crash
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER PUBLISHED: 11:43 GMT, 14 October 2012 | UPDATED: 18:16 GMT, 14 October 2012
Arrested: Tunnicliffe was involved in a car crash
Manchester United youngster Ryan Tunnicliffe has been charged with driving with excess alcohol after crashing his £60,000 Range Rover.Tunnicliffe, 19, of Clemshaw Close, Heywood, near Rochdale, has been charged with driving with excess alcohol and is due to appear before Bury Magistrates Court on October 25, a spokesman for Greater Manchester Police confirmed. The charge relates to an incident which happened shortly before 2.15pm on Saturday when a Range Rover collided with a transit van on Green Lane, Heywood.
The van subsequently collided with the wall of a house.Police said the front seat passenger of the Range Rover suffered a minor whiplash injury in the collision and both vehicles were badly damaged. Tunnicliffe made his debut for United as a 77th-minute substitute in the 2-1 Capital One Cup victory over Newcastle United - winning his father, Mick, £10,000.When the midfielder, was nine years old his father placed the wager that his son would one day play for United, taking odds of 100-1 with a £100 bet.
Debut: Tunnicliffe earned his dad £10,000 after turning out for United
His performances were rewarded with a professional contract on December 30, 2009 - the day he turned 17. His profile on United's official website describes the player as 'somebody who is highly regarded at Old Trafford'.
Liverpool set to remain at Anfield as city council announces regeneration plan
By DOMINIC KING PUBLISHED: 21:30 GMT, 14 October 2012 | UPDATED: 21:30 GMT, 14 October 2012
Liverpool will move a step closer to staying at Anfield when the city council announce their plans for the regeneration of the area on Monday.Fenway Sports Group, Liverpool's owners, have been wrestling with the idea of moving to a new site on Stanley Park or redeveloping Anfield, which has been the club's home since 1892.
Staying put: Liverpool look set to remain at Anfield
The City Council, though, are expected to announce plans for a new 'Anfield Village' at a press conference and it is expected that Liverpool will pursue the a redevelopment and expansion of their current stadium.Moving to Stanley Park was heavily dependent on FSG obtaining a naming rights deal to ease the cost but the finance involved in modernising Anfield will also be significant.
Plans: John Henry (right) had considered moving the club
This has been a long-running saga and the club's most recent financial results, which were released in May, revealed Liverpool had written off a staggering £49.6million during their failure to relocate.
EXCLUSIVE: Cole to quit Chelsea! United and Real prepare to pounce after star rejects new contract
By NEIL ASHTON PUBLISHED: 21:30 GMT, 14 October 2012 | UPDATED: 06:38 GMT, 15 October 2012
Ashley Cole is ready to walk out on Chelsea at the end of the season after failing to agree terms on a new contract.Cole is adamant he will not sign the one-year extension on offer and is preparing to speak with foreign clubs, including Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain, in January.The England defender, back in Roy Hodgson’s team for the World Cup qualifier against Poland on Tuesday night, is a victim of Chelsea’s new policy for players over the age of 30.
Benched: Ashley Cole (centre) is set to leave Chelsea next summer
Where next for Ashley?
REAL MADRID
Jose Mourinho brought Cole to Chelsea.
MANCHESTER CITY
Plenty of money and trophy potential.
PARIS SAINT-GERMAIN
Wealth and Carlo Ancelotti is a fan.
MANCHESTER UNITED
Patrice Evra nearing end of career.
If Cole, 31, and Frank Lampard, who is also out of contract next summer, quit Stamford Bridge, it will be confirmation that Roman Abramovich is breaking up his Champions League-winning team.The Russian told the players they were directly responsible for the sacking of Andre Villas-Boas last March and warned them their futures were on the line before they went on to win the FA Cup and European Cup.Despite their success, Abramovich’s threat appears to be real after the club’s failure to match the expectations of Cole and Lampard, 34, during talks.
No thanks: Cole will not sign a one-year contract extension
Chelsea only offered Didier Drogba a one-year extension last summer, but he quit after failing to reach an agreement.Cole, whose availability next summer has also alerted Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson, has played in 188 out of a possible 235 games in the Premier League since signing from Arsenal six years ago.He missed the majority of those games in his first two seasons because of problems with his ankles, but he has been reliable in the past four years.
End of an era: Frank Lampard could also quit Stamford Bridge
Although Cole has to bathe his ankles in ice after games and has specially-adapted training, he has no fears about playing long term.Chief executive Ron Gourlay is handling negotiations, but has been unable to make progress. Gourlay said after the Champions League final win over Bayern Munich they would be signed on new deals ‘by September’.Both players believe they deserve more respect from the club, but Cole’s cause has been not been helped by his recent tweet rant against the FA.
UK to apply for new inquests into Hillsborough deaths
LONDON | Tue Oct 16, 2012 8:24am EDT
(Reuters) - The deaths of 96 soccer fans in the Hillsborough stadium tragedy should be reinvestigated after a damning report last month into the emergency services' role in Britain's worst sporting disaster, the government's chief legal officer said on Tuesday.
Attorney General Dominic Grieve said he planned to apply to the High Court to quash the "accidental death" verdicts reached at the original inquest.
The Liverpool supporters died after a crush in an enclosed, overcrowded terrace at the Hillsborough stadium in the northern city of Sheffield on April 15, 1989 during an FA Cup semi-final against Nottingham Forest.
Their families have campaigned for more than 20 years to overturn official accounts that smeared fans, blaming them for being drunk, ticketless and intent on forcing their way into the packed ground.
An independent inquiry concluded last month that police tried to deflect the blame onto fans to cover up their own incompetence and suggested that 41 lives could have been saved if the emergency response had been quicker.
"My current view is that I will apply to have every one of those 96 inquests quashed," Grieve told parliament. "These deaths, arising as they do from a common chain of events, should all be considered afresh."
The process of applying to the courts to overturn the original inquest verdicts is "far from over" and the families must be contacted, he added. A timetable for the process was not announced.
Steve Rotheram, a Labour member of parliament for Liverpool, said the move "marks one of the biggest steps forward in the fight for justice for the families in 23 years".
"For the first time in over two decades, all the evidence can now be reviewed into the disaster and potentially a new verdict recorded on the death certificates of the deceased," he said in a statement.
"At long last, the full horror of Hillsborough will be on the public record alongside the names of the people and the organizations that are accountable for what happened."
One of the most controversial elements of the first inquest was the coroner's decision to limit its scope to events leading up to only 3:15 p.m., 15 minutes after the kickoff.
That was on the basis that all victims would have already been dead or suffered brain damage by that time. Campaigners have long argued that the cut-off point was arbitrary and wrong.
(Reporting by Peter Griffiths, editing by Mark Meadows)
Manchester City youth talent have 'a way to go' before first-team exposure, admits Marwood
The chief football administrator explained Uefa's Financial Fair Play requires a faster reduction in spending than expected, and outlined the club's vision for youth development
'I want to stay at Arsenal as long as I can' - Mannone commits future to Gunners
The 24-year-old has dismissed reports linking him with a move back to his homeland when his contract expires and says he does not want to move to another club at the moment
Cazorla: I try to copy Barcelona's Iniesta
The Arsenal man has nothing but praise for his national team-mate and believes the Catalans playmaker is an excellent role model both on and off the pitch
Chelsea boss Di Matteo defends 'unsung hero' Mikel
As a former midfielder the Blues manager is mystified as to why the Nigeria international has come under scrutiny for his form in the first seven matches of the new season
Manchester City hold off on new Yaya Toure contract talks
The Premier League champions are in no rush to hand the Ivory Coast midfielder an extension to his current £220,000-a-week deal, which runs until 2015 when the player will be 32
Unfair for Suarez to take cheat heat, while Bale escapes media backlash
The Uruguayan has found himself at the centre of controversy this week following his antics during Liverpool's draw with Stoke but any blame should be shared around
Liverpool owners FSG reaffirm commitment to redeveloping Anfield
The Merseyside club have announced their desire to expand the historic ground, bringing an end to plans for a move to a new stadium on nearby Stanley Park
Anelka attacks Chelsea for treatment of veteran players
The Shanghai Shenua striker has attacked his former club by claiming that as soon as players reach the age of 30 they are no longer seen as important and are forced out of the side
Suarez is a cheat, blasts Koscielny
The Arsenal defender has named the Liverpool striker as the forward he least enjoys facing - remarking that he would like to "give him a kick" if not for the risk of a red card
Lewandowski snubs Manchester United
The Poland international has affirmed his commitment to the Bundesliga champions and says that he has no plans to leave, before admitting his admiration for the Premier League
Premier League considering winter break, Scudamore reveals
The top flight chief executive says that the English football institutions have looked into a mid-season rest period but doubts whether it could fit into the current schedule
Injury-ravaged Vidic no longer indispensable at Manchester United
The tough-tackling Serb has been the cornerstone of the Red Devils' domestic and European success for the past five years, but the time may have come for a parting of the ways
Liverpool keeper Reina to undergo tests on injury sustained in Spain warm-up
The shot-stopper picked up the knock while preparing during La Roja's 1-1 draw with France and could now be a doubt for the Reds when they return to action at the weekend
Giroud: Premier League is the best in the world
The Arsenal striker has recently shown signs of improvement after a slow start to life in the English top flight, and has hailed the "physicality" he has encountered thus far
Ayre: Liverpool not pursuing naming rights deal for Anfield
The Reds announced plans to increase the capacity of their current home on Monday, but the managing director has insisted this will not be financed through sponsorship
Monchengladbach winger Herrmann dismisses Tottenham link as 'just rumours'
The German midfielder has claimed that there is no truth in the reports linking him with the north London club, despite describing the suggestions as "flattering"
Platt: Yaya Toure & David Silva not indispensable to Manchester City
Roberto Mancini's right-hand man has insisted the Premier League champions want to reach a point where they can cope with the absence of even their biggest stars
Manchester United winger Nani targeted by Milan in cut-price move
The Old Trafford outfit are holding out for €25 million from the Serie A side, who don't want to pay much more than half that amount for the Portuguese star
Torres: There was a moment last season when I realised I didn't care
The much-maligned striker reveals that he struggled with motivation in 2011-12 as his well-publicised lack of goals prevented him from flourishing at Stamford Bridge
Redknapp: Bale in the same class as Ronaldo & Messi
The ex-Tottenham boss, who held onto the talented winger throughout his tenure despite reported transfer interest, believes the Wales international could play for anyone
Chelsea star Mata determined to return to Spain squad
The Blues attacking midfielder claims that he can have no complaints about his recent exclusion from Vicente del Bosque's national squad but is intent on regaining his place
Torres: Liverpool still a big part of my life
The Chelsea centre forward reaffirms his fondness for his former club and the city as a whole in the wake of recent developments surrounding the Hillsborough tragedy
Hodgson warns Ashley Cole competition for his spot is 'as great as it has been'
The England manager has praised the wealth of talent at his disposal, and claims that any animosity between the Chelsea man and the Football Association has been resolved
Andre Santos is a transfer target for Galatasaray, reveals CEO
Lutfi Aribogan claims that the Gunners left-back is on the Turkish giants' list of potential recruits but they are yet to make contact with the Brazilian or his club
Wenger: AC Milan should stick with Allegri
The Frenchman feels the coach deserves the Rossoneri's trust as he needs time to rebuild the team after the departure of several key players in the summer
Wilshere two weeks from full Arsenal return ahead of behind-closed-doors friendly
The midfielder has been pencilled in for his full competitive return against Reading in the League Cup on October 30 but must build his match fitness and shed some excess weight
PSG to tempt Ashley Cole with €185,000-a-week three-year deal
The cash-rich Ligue 1 club are in the driving seat to sign the England defender, who could be sold by Chelsea as early as January, if Ryan Bertrand's rise to prominence continues
Bale is no cheat but he risks becoming a target like Suarez if he continues to dive
The Tottenham winger hit headlines for simulation against Aston Villa and Scotland but Liverpool's Uruguayan remains the target for much of football's animosity - for now
Shola Ameobi set for Nigeria Africa Cup of Nations call-up
The Magpies could lose the striker next year, with the long-serving forward being considered for inclusion by the Super Eagles' head coach
Song: Barcelona are on another level
The Cameroon international spoke of his admiration for team-mate Sergio Busquets, whilst recalling an encounter with a teenage Lionel Messi before the 2006 Champions League final
Gerrard delighted with Liverpool's decision to stay at Anfield
The captain is thrilled that the club have shelved plans for a new stadium, with chief executive Ian Ayre today confirming they have opted to redevelop their famous ground
Stoke capable of causing upset against Manchester United, insists Crouch
Despite losing on their last four visits to Old Trafford - conceding 13 goals in the process - the striker is adamant the Potters can beat Sir Alex Ferguson's men
'Wenger was like a father to me' - Alex Song pays tribute to Arsenal boss
The 25-year-old, who joined Barcelona during the summer, claims that the Frenchman helped him adjust to life in England when he arrived in north London seven years ago
Abete: All players must set an example, not just Balotelli
In the wake of Brian Marwood’s recent comments concerning the Italian’s suitability as a role model, the FIGC president says the same applies to all footballers
Anti-racism campaign group Kick It Out 'welcomes' Terry's acceptance of four-match ban
Chaiman Lord Ouseley is glad to hear the Chelsea captain will not appeal his suspension, but admits a lot more has to be done to deal with the issue of racial abuse
Sunderland-Newcastle clash bigger than Milan derby, insists Santon
The former Inter man has played in one the most famous derbies in world football during his time in Serie A, but rates Sunday's trip to the Stadium of Light as fiercer
Terry's forced apology and Chelsea's private justice will not do
The statements released by the Blues and their captain suggest a desire to draw a line under the Anton Ferdinand racism row rather than confronting the issues involved
Ashley Cole fined €110,000 for Twitter outburst towards FA
The England international has received a hefty fine and a warning over future conduct, after posting a foul-mouthed message on Twitter in relation to the John Terry case
Chelsea take further 'confidential' disciplinary action against John Terry
The Blues have announced there will sanctions for their skipper, but will not be publicising what action they are taking against the former England captain
Manchester City youngster Guidetti delighted at signing new deal
The Sweden international striker had a highly impressive loan spell at Feyenoord last season and has now committed his long-term future to Roberto Mancini’s side
Balotelli does not 'give a damn' about Marwood comments
The controversial striker is happy at Manchester City despite the club's football administrator telling City's youth players not to copy the Italian's off-field behaviour
Chelsea defender John Terry opts against appeal over four-game ban
The Blues' skipper and former England captain has decided against contesting the charge, and has formally apologised for the offensive language he used during a game last year
Arteta eyes future managerial role
The Arsenal midfielder has worked under two of the most respected bosses in the Premier League and says he might consider taking a top job when his playing days are over
Arsenal target Adrian for €18m January raid
Arsene Wenger is keen to make a move for the Atletico Madrid star after learning of his release clause and wants him signed at the beginning of the transfer window
Juventus join AC Milan in race to sign Nani
The Serie A champions are stepping up their pursuit of the Portugal international winger, whose uncertain future looks increasingly likely to be away from Old Trafford
Liverpool manager Rodgers can emulate Dortmund boss Klopp, claims Sahin
The on-loan Real Madrid midfielder believes the new Reds head-coach can deliver success at Anfield if he is given the time, as his counterpart did in the Bundesliga
Martinez ready to answer Arsenal goalkeeping crisis
The Argentine is certain that he can be the answer to Arsene Wenger's latest conundrum, after Wojciech Szczesny and Lukasz Fabianski both suffered fresh injury setbacks
Balotelli is beginning to mature, says Prandelli
The Italian coach feels that the Manchester City striker has finally turned a corner in his Azzurri career and is seeking consistency from his player in upcoming matches
Manchester City deny interest in Barcelona duo Busquets & Fabregas
The Premier League club have stated that any reports linking them with moves for the Spanish midfielders are untrue, and that they will not be making a bid for the players
Liverpool striker Borini facing three months out after foot surgery
The Reds forward sustained a fracture during his side's recent defeat to Manchester United before further aggravating it whilst on international duty with Italy
Henderson eyeing top-four finish for youthful Liverpool
The former Sunderland midfielder believes the likes of Suso, Raheem Sterling and Jonjo Shelvey can help Brendan Rodgers deliver Champions League qualification for the Anfield club
FA vote against chairman David Bernstein retaining position beyond age of 70
The 69-year-old was appointed Football Association chairman in January 2011 but will not be able to serve a full three-year term according to the governing body's rules
Szczesny suffers setback & Fabianski ruled out for three months as Arsenal keeper crisis deepens
The Gunners No.1 is up to three weeks away from a return while his understudy has been left devastated after rupturing his ankle ligaments in training, keeping him out for longer
Bale is good enough for Real Madrid, says former Spurs team-mate Modric
The Croatian playmaker has spoken of his admiration for his former Tottenham colleague, suggesting the fleet-footed winger is talented enough to play for Los Blancos
Newcastle striker Nile Ranger admits to assaulting two police officers
The 21-year-old has been given a 12-month conditional discharge and forced to pay compensation to the officers involved after an altercation while on a night out
Oct 15, 2012 2:55:00 PM
By Alfie Meekings
Newcastle United striker Nile Ranger has admitted to assaulting two police officers in August.
The 21-year-old was initially charged with the actual bodily harm of two others on the same night out, but these allegations were dropped after enhanced CCTV footage showed the player to be acting in self-defence.
Ranger fled the scene of the initial incident and when police attempted to detain him he twice pushed them away, causing minor injuries.
Gill ClarkHe has been handed a 12-month conditional discharge and ordered to pay compentsaion of £750 to each of the police officers involved.
However, Judge John Evans told the player that if he stays out of trouble for the next year, he will be allowed to move on from incident.
"The picture that the court is presented with is very different to that which was first contemplated," Evan said.
"The prosecution have had the opportunity of considering the CCTV footage and it shows a different picture to what was first understood.
"I cannot know what happened that night, only those involved know that. After the confrontation, you delivered two pushes to the police officers, who suffered limited injuries.
"It has been going on now for a year and I accept during that time you will have attracted quite a deal of publicity that may well have impacted your life."
Manchester City & Arsenal just call players and offer them lots of money, says Rosell
The Barcelona president says the Premier League duo use strong-arm tactics to bring in talent and has poured cold water on the idea of a European super league
Oct 17, 2012 9:40:00 AM
By Tom J Doyle
Barcelona president Sandro Rosell has accused Manchester City of building a team by simply offering players "lots of money", and also criticised Arsenal's youth policy in the process.
The Catalan club's chief dismissed City's transfer policy as an inflated version of Arsene Wenger's approach to procuring academy talent for the Gunners, with Barcelona losing Cesc Fabregas to Arsenal in 2003.
The Spanish star rejoined his hometown side last summer for a fee of £30 million, and Rosell feels City - and by extension Arsenal - are simply using money to blow away the competition, whether it be at youth or senior level.
"City are now doing at first team what Arsenal have been doing at academy: call players and offer them lots of money," he told Marca.
Barcelona lost Yaya Toure to Roberto Mancini's side in 2010 for an estimated fee of £24m, and the Ivorian has become an integral part of City's side.
While Arsenal midfielder Alex Song joined the Spanish champions this summer for £15m, there was resentment within the Catalan club and among fans at the large fee needed to buy back Fabregas - a former youth player at La Masia.
Rosell also questioned the possibility of a European super league, suggesting both fans and national federations would prefer for the game to remain the same.
He added: "A European league won't happen soon. National federations won't allow [it], and fans prefer to face Betis rather than Bruges."
And despite pouring cold water on the idea of a European super league, Rosell spoke about his side having to adjust their schedule rather drastically in order to satisfy the burgeoning Asian TV markets.
"Barcelona will this season also play a Spanish league game on a Sunday at 12pm," he confirmed.
